Do you ever count how many times you chew your food before you swallow? If no, try it! Eating slowly is a massive part of a healthy diet even if the food you are eating isn’t classified as “healthy”. Why? Chewing allows your teeth and saliva to begin digestion so you can use the nutrients from the food to fuel your body. Eating slowly also helps to ease bloating and digestive problems, increases enjoyment, and helps you to avoid overeating. If you currently take 3-5 chews aim for 8-10 and build your way up to 20-30 overtime. Happy slow eating!

Today we want to know what’s inside our skin care products and there is a huge demand for safe, natural beauty products. The term organic refers to something that was produced without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, GMOs, sewage, ionizing radiation, as well as antibiotics and growth hormones. Natural means something that originally “existed in” or was “derived from” nature. When looking for skin care chose those made from natural organic ingredients and are free from Parabens, Phthalates, Sulfates, PEG compounds, Petrochemicals & Mineral Oils, Ethoxylated Ingredients, as well as Synthetic Fragrances & Colors.

Determining the underlying root cause of health issues is the key to treatment. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is a measure of Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) balance and strength and consequently your systematic health and resilience. ANS controls internal body processes such as blood pressure, heart and breathing rates, body temperature, digestion, and metabolism. A Nutri-Energetic Systems (NES) scan identifies blockages in the body’s energetic structure and field which serves as a master control system for all physiological function. By combining HRV with the NES Bioenergy scan, it is possible to find and see changes in the body on the energetic level and in the underlying structure. This helps to determine where to focus on in the healing and rebalancing approach.

Robert Fortunat, Registered Denturist, has been a Denturist for 29 years in the Cowichan Valley. Duncan Dental (1992) Ltd. is a small family run business that has been in Duncan for 66 years, and Robert is the third owner since 1953. Robert performs all clinical and laboratory services personally and offers a complete range of denture services from full or partial dentures to dentures on implants, relines and more. Call him to learn more about the options available to you. Robert is committed to customer service, and his goal is to give you a functional, natural looking smile.

If you are one of the many who struggle with seasonal environmental allergies, there are natural treatments available that can be as effective as allergy medication. Try some of these top picks for natural relief! *Apple Cider Vinegar *Bee Propolis and Honey from local sources *Nettle Tea *Quercetin *Probiotics *Reishi Mushroom tincture or capsules. An anti-inflammatory diet consisting of nutrient dense food and avoiding processed meats and foods is a part of natural allergy relief. Get sufficient sleep and exercise, and avoid your personal triggers. Visit your local health food store for more information on seasonal allergies.

The theme for the 2019 Gambling Awareness Week is “Find Your Balance”, in support of maintaining a balanced outlook of the role gambling may play in our lives. In early May, be on the lookout for BC Responsible & Problem Gambling Program community events in your area; ranging from sponsored swims, pop up community awareness booths and contests at community centers and other locations. Finding Our Balance in life can be challenging. Striking that balance is easier when we have a diverse array of activities in which to engage.

Black seed (Nigella sativa) is the new preferred therapeutic oil prized for its immune-boosting and antibacterial benefits to reduce respiratory, viral, and digestive ailments. Studies show that this versatile oil can regulate the immune system, balance blood sugar, and has anti-cancer activity (Butt et al, 2010). Even though it’s known for its medicinal power, it can be used in food and as a digestive. Look for a cold-pressed black seed oil on its own, and for a synergistic blend, use oregano oil and black seed oil together. Look for a combination with vitamins A and D added to give your immune system the best tools to beat the bugs!

Cassie Irwin, Enerex.ca

Fitness is a life long journey. It can’t be earned in one workout, gained by eating well for one week, or through one eight hour sleep. The long-term benefits only come to those who stick with the plan, adapt as life changes, and most importantly enjoy the ride. We call this building healthy habits. Imagine if you ate one apple a day and did 20-30 minutes of varied physical activity 3 days per week. Over one year that would be 365 apples and 78 hours of physical activity accumulated through your habits. Focus on making only one change every 2-4 weeks and watch your life change.

Tyler Buck, Nutrition Coach, Trainer, BoundlessFitnessandNutrition.ca

Looking for something special to do for Mothers’ Day?  On Sunday May 12th, take a self-guided tour of seven spectacular gardens in the Cowichan Valley.  It is the 25th Anniversary of the Cowichan Family Life Association Garden Tour Fundraiser.  There will be two master gardeners on hand at each garden to answer your questions and garden expert Helen Chestnut will be at the Tea Garden. Tickets are $25 each and include refreshments at the Tea Garden. The Tea Garden also features accomplished local Artists and musicians. See website for a list of ticket outlets.

Tina Short, CowichanFamilyLife.org/garden-tour-fund-raiser