Now that the holidays are over, many of us go back to our busy lives, so there is less time to spend with family. We have a compassionate challenge for you to keep an element of the “Holiday Quality Time” going throughout January and the rest of the year. We encourage you to see someone close to you with a bit more frequency than you did in 2024. A previous director of the Harvard Grant Study, a 75-year comprehensive study of adult development and happiness, said, “The only thing that matters in life is your relationship to other people.” (George Vaillant)
Community News
Interesting Ear Facts
Ears, beyond hearing, are remarkable for several reasons: *They aid balance, *get bigger throughout life due to natural aging and gravity, *are self-cleaning, *remain alert even during sleep, and *house delicate non-regenerating hair cells crucial for hearing. The ears also regulate pressure changes via the Eustachian tube and are connected to the nose and throat as part of an intricate system. Having two ears helps us figure out which direction sounds are coming from. If you or a family member are concerned about hearing loss, book a free consultation today.
Time to Reflect
Happy New Year! Another year has come, and, as always, the start of a new year brings about some reflection. Do you need some changes? Are you contemplating a move? Maybe you’re tired of the day-to-day chores of meal prep, cleaning and yard maintenance or you’re feeling somewhat lonely. If so, there are great options available. For independent living and assisted living, many retirement communities can cater to your interests, wants and needs. Book your tours to see what is available as far as retirement lifestyles go; it is never too soon to start exploring.
Keeping Busy in the Winter
Winter can be chilly and uninviting. As the days grow short and cold, excursions become tricky in the ice and cold. If there is nothing to do, evenings become long. Take this time to explore new things: read a new author and stretch your mind with a brain game; perhaps you prefer a puzzle, or you can learn an instrument! A home-care service can help you or your loved one stay home safely. They will get you to errands, help cook a lovely meal, or engage in some good old conversation—whatever is needed. We are happy to help.
Floss your Teeth for a Cleaner Mouth
Do you floss your teeth? Flossing is an activity that you should not neglect. It is as important to floss every day as it is to brush your teeth. Brushing alone can’t reach the bacteria in the tight spaces between your teeth and under the gum line. Proper flossing helps remove the plaque and debris that adhere to your teeth and gums. It also helps to control bad breath by removing the decaying food that may be stuck between your teeth. Make it a habit to floss at the end of the day. Your mouth will be cleaner, and your dental hygienist will praise you.
Yaga at Western Edge Theatre
She’s more than just a wicked old witch. Baba Yaga is a legend, usually known as that elderly woman who lives alone in the woods and grinds the bones of the wicked. But what if she was a sexy, smart, modern woman operating off of morally ambiguous motives? This genre-bending, comedic fairy tale meets a thrilling whodunit and gives voice to an antihero of epic proportions while interrogating how her story has historically been told by men. From now on, you’ll remember the name Baba Yaga for the right reasons.
Volunteer Opportunities
Are you looking for fulfilling volunteer opportunities? Nanaimo Lifeline has three volunteer positions open! We are part of the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation, and our volunteers give back to healthcare in Nanaimo and Oceanside. 1) Home Service Representative: You provide hands-on service to our Lifeline clients, performing installations and work orders. 2) Check-In Caller: social phone calls to clients from the comfort of your home! This program alleviates social isolation in seniors. 3) Office Volunteer: Help us in the office with filing and inventory processing. Please contact Nanaimo Lifeline to find out more or to volunteer.
Exercise & Alzheimer’s
Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.
Benefits of Frequency and Vibration
The underlying premise of Biofield Tuning is to charge our electrical bodies to their full battery level. Our bodies are connected to frequency, light, and magnetic electricity. When we tune, we employ this “charge” with sound using tuning forks in the biofield around our bodies. Since we mainly consist of water, and sound moves four times faster through water, frequency is very influential for our health and well-being. We are frequency and vibration, and sound is the ancient medicine that has been rising into our modern awareness. Your treasure awaits with sound therapy!
Neck and Shoulder Pain: A Common Affliction
Neck and shoulder pain affects millions of people worldwide, ranging from dull aches to sharp, mobility-limiting sensations. Common causes include poor posture, repetitive motions, stress, and injuries. Sufferers often experience tension headaches, reduced range of motion, and numbness in the arms. The pain can be debilitating, decreasing productivity and quality of life. While painkillers may offer temporary relief, many seek long-term solutions. Therapies like acupuncture and cupping address root causes, offering more comprehensive relief. These techniques may provide lasting results for those struggling with persistent neck and shoulder discomfort. Don’t let neck and shoulder pain control your life. Call today.
Smoking Cessation Action Plan
Did you make a New Year’s resolution to stop smoking? Your pharmacist can provide advice and guide you through this journey. Here’s an action plan: *Choose a starting point—pick a date, tell your friends and family, and ask them for support. *Meet your pharmacist to help determine how dependent you are on nicotine. *Follow a personalized treatment plan; your pharmacist can prescribe a tailored solution, including nicotine replacement products. *Reward yourself when you’re progressing. Many benefits of a smoke-free life can be felt in the long term, and some benefits are almost instant, so keep on going!
