Community News
Words to Live By

“This is a time of peace and great joy. Among the rush of worldly coming and going, choose to remain calm and peaceful in your heart.” – Keith Macpherson

Disability Tax Credit for Type 1 Diabetes

The Disability Tax Credit is a program designed to help those with disabilities or their caregivers reduce the amount of income tax they pay, offsetting some of the significant medical and treatment expenses. What diabetes-related activities are covered? According to CRA, the following activities qualify in the 14-hour-per-week calculation: • Checking blood glucose levels • Preparing and administering the insulin • Calibrating necessary equipment • Testing ketones • Keeping a log book of blood glucose levels. With children, the 14-hour-per-week eligibility criteria can usually be met by combining the parent and child’s time. T1D is an expensive disease, and the disability tax credit can provide some financial relief for those who qualify.

Why Drink Red Rooibos?

Red rooibos tea offers a plethora of health benefits and sensory delights. It’s naturally caffeine-free, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a soothing, non-stimulating beverage. Rich in antioxidants, it bolsters the immune system and helps combat oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Red rooibos is also appreciated for its potential to lower blood pressure and promote good cholesterol levels. Its anti-inflammatory properties may alleviate allergy symptoms and skin conditions. Furthermore, the tea is a source of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc, benefiting bone health. Beyond health advantages, its earthy, slightly sweet flavor makes it a comforting and satisfying drink.

Vibroacoustic Therapy for Dementia

The prevalence of dementia is increasing with the ever-growing population of older adults. Non-pharmacological, vibration and sound-based interventions were reported by the Lancet Commission in 2020 to be the first-choice approach for managing the behavioural and psychological symptoms. Vibroacoustic Therapy is a therapeutic approach that harnesses the power of vibration and sound to alleviate some of the cognitive and emotional challenges faced by individuals living with dementia. Vibroacoustic therapy can trigger positive emotional responses, evoke memories, and enhance communication among dementia patients. It offers a non-pharmacological complement to manage symptoms and enhance the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers, fostering a sense of connection and comfort during a challenging journey.

How Choice Makes All The Difference

“Excellence is never an accident. It is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, and intelligent execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives – choice, not chance, determines your destiny.” —Plato, quoting Aristotle. November is Men’s Health Month this month we look at how the choices we make shape our destiny. Join a group of ordinary men working towards living extraordinary lives. Your families, communities and especially yourself need you!

Every Month Should Be Movember

Although Movember is a great yearly reminder to think about prostate, testicular and mental health, men should be focusing on their physical and mental well-being every month. It’s important for men to take charge of their own health. A good first step is to find out how well your body is functioning so you can target any areas that need assistance. One of the best ways to accomplish this is through nutritional testing and supplementation. If an area is found to be weak or underperforming, specific, natural formulations can be taken to boost and maximize your body’s ability to function optimally, so you can have a better quality of life every month.

Boost Energy Levels This Winter

In the winter months, maintaining adequate levels of vitamin B12 becomes even more important for boosting energy and combating seasonal fatigue. With shorter daylight hours and limited sun exposure, our bodies may produce less of this essential nutrient, leading to potential deficiencies. Vitamin B12 is vital for energy production, as it aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates and the formation of red blood cells, which transport oxygen to cells and muscles. During winter, incorporating B12-rich foods like lean meats, fish, dairy, and fortified cereals into your diet or considering supplements can help sustain energy levels, alleviate winter lethargy, and promote overall well-being in the face of reduced sunlight and increased cold weather demands.

Bringing Fitness to You

Are you eager to stay active this fall and winter but find the idea of crowded gyms intimidating or overwhelming? The good news is, you can achieve your fitness goals with just a 6×6 feet space in the comfort of your home. Fitness on the Go is here to make it effortless by bringing fitness directly to your doorstep. We’re dedicated to keeping you motivated and on the right track, ensuring you complete safe and effective workouts at your convenience, all within the privacy of your own home. We provide all the necessary fitness equipment, tailored training schedules, and routines designed specifically for your individual needs and body. Say goodbye to gym anxiety and hello to personalized, convenient fitness with Fitness on the Go!

Local Spotlight: Monarch Family Therapy

At Monarch Family Therapy, we offer a variety of therapeutic and educational services for children, adults, families, and professionals across Manitoba and provide an inclusive atmosphere that welcomes all identities and abilities. We provide children and their parents/caregivers opportunities to build connection and healing with an emphasis on developing secure attachment relationships. Areas of support include: Attachment & Parenting; Grief & Loss (death, divorce, child welfare involvement/foster care, ambiguous loss); Complex Developmental Trauma/Childhood Trauma; Emotion Regulation (ADHD, Autism, Sensory Processing & Trauma); Behaviour Challenges (home/school/community); Sensory Processing Disorders; Developmental Delays; Depression & Anxiety; Adoption; Abuse, Neglect & Child Welfare Involvement; Children in Care & Permanency Planning; and Developmental Assessments by our on-site occupational therapist.

The Many Benefits of Acupuncture

Acupuncture can be used to help with symptom relief from a variety of health conditions. Some examples include: 1) Musculoskeletal pain – acupuncture can help with all kinds of musculoskeletal pain, including spastic or painful muscle from trauma, as well as joint pain, sciatica, and tendonitis. 2) Hormone imbalance – acupuncture may decrease symptoms related to infertility, menstruation, and menopause by assisting with hormone balance restoration. 3) Mood disorders – acupuncture can be an effective way to cope with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. 4) Sleep disorders – acupuncture can help with insomnia, snoring, and sleep apnea.

Clean Eating Recipe: Hot Chocolate

Store bought hot chocolate “packets” contain massive amounts of sugar and even hydrogenated oils (an unexpected, undesirable ingredient). You can serve this with whipped cream made of organic heavy cream with a little bit of Monk Fruit Sweetener.
1/3 c full fat coconut milk (unsweetened)
2/3 c boiling water
1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp vanilla
Monk Fruit Sweetener
(optional) 1-2 drops peppermint oil, whipped cream, or cocoa nibs
Boil water on the stove. Add in all remaining ingredients. Stir well. Let cool a little bit, serve and enjoy!