Do you wake up with jaw tension? Or perhaps you grind your teeth at night? One thing you can do to ease the tension is to massage your jaw before bed. Simply put a fist—the first two knuckles work best—on either side of your face, just below your ears, right at the corner of the jaw (near the temporomandibular joint—that’s what TMJ stands for), then just gently traction down. Let your jaw relax and even hang open a bit as you do this. Do 3–5 passes and head to bed. Repeat anytime you notice tension in the jaw.
Community News
Words To Live By
“In this present moment there is no fear. Fear is an indicator that your mind is either in the past or the future, making up stories about moments that have already happened or are yet to come. Be truly present today and stay attuned to the safety of the moment you are already in.” – Keith Macpherson
The Hearing Loss/Alzheimer’s Connection
Recent research suggests that improving hearing loss with hearing aids reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. In 2011, Johns Hopkins Medical School researchers discovered a significant association between hearing loss and the risk of developing these unwanted cognitive conditions. The worse someone’s hearing gets, the greater their risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia. The researchers believe their findings could have substantial implications for individuals and public health because hearing loss is treatable with hearing instruments. These findings underscore how important regular hearing tests are as part of preventative health care
Healthy Eating for Healthy Aging
March is Nutrition Month, a great reminder that what we eat plays a key role in overall health, especially as we age. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports energy, brain function, and heart health. Hydration is just as important—aim for plenty of water throughout the day. For seniors, meal planning helps maintain proper nutrition. Eating smaller, frequent meals can be beneficial, and including calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified plant-based options supports bone health. Good nutrition fuels a strong body and mind, keeping us active and independent for longer!
Your Personal Pharmacist
Do you have a personal pharmacist on your wellness team? A personal pharmacist pays close attention to your needs and provides personalized care. Whether it’s managing your diabetes, heart health, or another chronic condition, they are invested in your health. Your personal pharmacist can help make sure your medication is the right fit and introduce you to tools that make day-to-day medication management easier. With the expanded role of pharmacists, they can assess and prescribe medication for certain minor conditions that do not require a doctor’s visit. When you have a minor condition, book an appointment with your pharmacist for a free assessment.
Is Your “Battery” Fully Charged?
When you have low energy, you may experience a wide range of energetic, emotional, or physical issues. These may include anxiety, depression, fear, grief, adrenal fatigue, and others. Biofield Tuning can help charge your battery. It is a sound therapy method that uses the frequency produced by tuning forks for targeted nervous system relaxation. Since we mainly consist of water, and sound moves four times faster through water, frequency is very influential for our health and well-being. I use the steady, coherent vibrational frequency of a tuning fork to assist your body to “tune and charge” itself by relaxing and releasing tension. Contact me for a free consultation.
Kinesiology for Long-Term, Optimal Health
For many individuals recovering from injury or managing chronic conditions, the transition from physiotherapy to kinesiology is a natural next step. While both professions focus on improving physical function and overall well-being, they serve complementary roles in the journey to recovery and optimal health. Once the initial recovery phase is complete, a kinesiologist can step in to continue the rehabilitation process and support long-term health. They build on the foundation established by physiotherapy, creating personalized programs to improve strength, flexibility, endurance, and overall physical capacity. Whether you’re stepping down from physiotherapy or looking for ongoing support, Vanisle Kinesiology is here to help you.
Route65.ca – Seniors Living & Care Directory
Are you or a loved one looking for senior living or home care options? With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming. Route65.ca is your trusted guide. Developed by the BC Care Providers Association, Route65.ca is a free resource designed to help the public navigate BC’s seniors living, wellness, and care continuum. The platform features a provincial directory of reputable retirement living, assisted living, long-term care, and home care options, along with wayfinding tools and educational resources to support system navigation and accessing services. Visit Route65.ca today to start your search. Need assistance? Call us toll-free at 1-877-955-6565 or by email at info@route65.ca.
Wellness Expo March 22– FREE to Attend
The Wellness Expo on March 22 in Nanaimo is a day to explore various approaches to health, nutrition, fitness, and overall well-being. Shop for great fashion and products for your home that all contribute to feeling good. The Wellness Expo website has a list of exhibitors, presentations, and door prizes.
Imogen at Western Edge Theatre
In London, England, Imogen Flight is set to be knighted by Good Queen Vic. The patrons of the ladies-only Saucy Chicken pub share stories and tall tales of their heroine. When Imogen herself shows up, she comes with more stories of her own and someone on her trail. What follows is a feminist comedy for the ages, paying homage to the multitudes of incredible women who have been lost to history.
Maintain your Pearly Whites
A healthy mouth is an important part of overall health. We recommend that you brush your teeth in the morning before eating if the food is acidic. Floss and rinse after every meal to help maintain the enamel (whiteness) of your teeth. Always wait 45 minutes to brush your teeth after drinking or eating to allow the enamel to harden again. Acidic foods soften enamel, and brushing right away can cause thinning it, making the yellow/brown root show through quicker. Visit your dental hygienist regularly to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
