This past year, there were times when we needed to remind ourselves to be grateful. Grateful that our family is supportive and near. Grateful that when we needed community resources we knew who to call. Grateful for friends who would pour the wine and listen to our tales of woes. Grateful for our readers who tell us how much they enjoy our newsletters. Grateful that when there was “one more thing” in a busy day, it meant that we were connected with our community. It is from this place of gratefulness that we wish our many readers, advertisers and friends, Peace, Happiness and Good Health this Holiday Season.
Community News
Macular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration is the leading cause of age-related blindness world-wide. Although there is no cure, early detection and preventative measures can delay or reduce vision loss. The central part of the retina at the back of the eye can become damaged over time due to Ultra-Violet radiation from the sun, smoking and/or poor nutrition. This results in the development of central blind spots and blurred or distorted vision. Symptoms progress slowly in the “dry” form and more rapidly in the “wet” form. Prevention of macular degeneration includes stopping smoking, good nutrition, regular exercise and wearing good quality UV blocking sunglasses.
Drug Free Pain Relief
Today many of us are searching for safe, natural and drug free solutions for our everyday aches and pains. VOXXLIFE is a technology company devoted to drug-free wellness, optimal health and improved human performance. They have done extensive research to develop a technology that triggers a very precise neuro response in the bottom of the feet that helps the brain maximize its natural pain fighting mechanisms. The documented results and benefits from using products with the VOXX HPT pattern include enhanced pain relief and management, especially PDN pain, enhanced stability and balance, and improved mobility.
Sleeping Warm During the Cold Winter
As we settle into the cooler months, here are some tips to stay cozy and warm throughout the night. *Snuggle up with a pet or loved one *Drink an herbal tea or hot water with lemon, ginger and honey before bedtime *Take a bath or hot shower before bedtime to promote sleepiness *Block drafts in the bedroom with thermal insulating window coverings * Toss a hot water bottle under the covers 20 minutes before climbing in *Switch to warmer yet breathable bed linens. Your temperature regulation this winter will improve with breathable wool and organic linens and cottons. Snuggle in and stay cozy for the whole night.
Preventing Winter Falls
‘Tis the season for freezing temperatures and slippery conditions that can lead to falls; falls that can result in serious injuries. In addition to obvious hazardous environmental conditions, the winter months bring with them unique characteristics and combinations of conditions that contribute to a higher risk of falling. Hypothermia, vitamin D deficiencies, and winter risks being brought indoors are among them. Work to help prevent winter falls by wearing footwear that provides a good grip, dressing warmly (try layering your clothes), talking to your doctor about vitamin D supplements, and cleaning up any puddles from any precipitation you’ve tracked inside your home.
Acupuncture for Emotional Trauma
Are you seeking ways to overcome emotional trauma? Do you have trouble letting go and moving on with your life? Living with the steady underlying stress of fight-or-flight can be exhausting. Survival mode is a phase that helps save your life in short term situations; it should not last throughout your life. Using a method from a course called “A Three Staged Approach to Treating Emotional Trauma with Acupuncture”, an acupuncturist can, in a safe and effective way, help your body to work through and release the trauma.
Keep your Dentures Clean
Like natural teeth, dentures can attract plaque, become stained, and collect food particles that can cause bad breath. They need to be cleaned daily to remove plaque and calculus. At home, dentures can be cleaned with over the counter cleaners and gentle bushing with a specialized denture brush. Ordinary toothbrushes and commercial toothpastes are too abrasive and can damage the surface of your dentures. When the plaque has hardened to calculus it will need to be removed at a denture clinic, so be sure to clean your dentures properly.
New Community Support Rep
The GAM Info Rep is a new service offered by the BC Responsible & Problem Gambling Program. GAM Info Reps are part of your Gaming & Gambling support services. Like any advisor, the GAM Info Rep is there to support you with your distinct needs every step of the way. Whether you need to inquire about counselling services, legal services, housing, community health, debt management or any other support service, the GAM Info Rep is there to help. Your GAM Info Rep in the Cowichan Valley is Shannon Husk. 250-588-3861
Improving and Preventing Age Lines
We have all seen ads proclaiming ‘miracles’. What really works is a special formula of pure organic anti-oxidant essential oils with NO FILLERS, bursting with vitamins and essential fatty acids to troubleshoot problem areas like pigmentation, wrinkles and dry skin. The DOUBLE DOUBLE range of products is rich and anti-ageing. For maximum benefits use with BREATHE products which were formulated for all skin types. They lock in moisture, tone and plump the skin and provide nourishment and hydration. They smooth the complexion and brighten dull skin. Most skincare products contain fillers, even those described as ‘natural’. Make sure to read the label. Look for skincare products with no nasty chemicals, preservatives or artificial fragrance.
Seniors and Stress
Chronic stress is harmful to people of all ages, but its impact on older adults can be particularly severe, increasing the risk of age-related diseases, hastening cognitive decline, and even triggering falls. Stressors that are common amongst the elderly include loss of control, personal loss, declining health, financial worries, personal safety, and loss of independence. To reduce stress, get regular exercise, eat balanced meals to ensure the mind and body are properly fueled, and ask for help. Talking with a trusted family member, friend, or healthcare professional, at the very least, releases pent-up stress and may even lead to a solution.
Holiday Shopping Opportunity
How would you like to look after all your gift giving needs and support a worthwhile cause at the same time? The Clements Centre for Community Living is pleased to present The Holiday Bazaar on November 10th, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm at 5856 Clements Street, Duncan. Come and shop for hand and homemade products ranging from pottery to jewelry and baked goods; all made by local vendors as well as clients and caregivers of the centre. Enjoy a Soup and Sandwich lunch for only $5.00 in the dining room. Clements Centre has 175 adults with developmental disabilities. The Holiday Bazaar helps fund adult services and support for them.
