In terms of the topical application of essential oils, there are three standard categories. “Neat” refers to those few essential oils, such as Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), that are generally accepted as safe for undiluted application on appropriate areas of the body. Neat application is controversial, however, within the field of essential oil therapy and is typically only performed by an adequately trained health practitioner and only for specific localized conditions. “Sensitive” refers to oils that are best applied mixed with a carrier oil, such as fractionated coconut oil, for people who are predisposed to having sensitive skin such as the elderly and children under the age of twelve.“Dilute” refers to oils best mixed with carrier oil for all skin types. Experts recommend using the lowest dilution possible that will obtain the desired results. A 2% topical dilution is common for the average adult in good health.

Nelson Meggitt, Optimum Wellness Factor, www.optimumwellnessfactor.ca

Osteopathy – More Than Bones Osteopathy is a hands-on manual therapy that focuses on the total body health by treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal, visceral and craniosacral systems. This therapy is a unique holistic approach to health care. We examine and address the mobility of all these systems manually and look for limitations in mobility that could be linked to the patient’s complaint. Osteopaths will make use of their extensive practical knowledge of anatomy, physiology, neurology and pathology. By treating mobility of the musculoskeletal, the facial, the vascular and the neurological systems in an integrated and structural thinking our patients experience greater healing capacities. An Osteopath does not heal but encourages the body`s own healing potential. Because Osteopathy is a healthcare system rather than a modality, its uses and applications are varied. People seek out Osteopathy for back and neck pain, joint problem, TMJ, headaches, sports injuries, and physical complaints.

Dr. Ross Ralph Dr.TCM, RAc. DOMP, www.courtenayhealingcentre.ca

Stress and anxiety can cause insomnia, and a lack of proper sleep can also aggravate anxiety and make it more challenging to cope with daily life. It is often then that we forget our good habits that normally reduce our tensions. Are you working long hours and being sedentary due to the amount of time that you are spending at work? Regular exercise and adequate rest are so beneficial for a good night of sleep. If insomnia is due to overwork, do not work in the bedroom and remove anything that may be a reminder of the office or work. A warm bath or light snack before bedtime may also be helpful. Regular practice of meditation exercises is extremely beneficial. Ask for help from friends, family and colleagues when stress in life becomes intolerable. Music, nature, dance and humour are all soothing to our spirit. Allow yourself to get away from daily routine to do something different and enjoyable.

Dr. Brigitte Tetrault, Courtenay Healing Centre
www.courtenayhealingcentre.com

The Offense, Defense, and Playing Field of Personal Finance. by Chris Brady and Orrin Woodward. Just as with becoming physically or mentally fit, becoming financially fit requires two things: knowing what to do and taking the necessary action to do it. Regardless of your current financial situation, you can learn to prosper, conserve, and multiply the fruits of your labor through a basic understanding of the principles behind the Offense, Defense, and Playing Field of personal finance. This book brings all of these fundamentals together in one convenient location so you can quickly and easily become the master of your money and the kind of person who can prosper in any economy!

Derek L. Chase. CPA, CA, CIRP

www.chasesekulich.com

This multi-flavonoid compound helps in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and in the reduction of high blood pressure. Cassiolamine helps to maintain healthy blood vessels by reducing the adhesion (stickiness) of blood platelets, which promotes healthy blood flow. This important ingredient also serves as an anti-oxidant, which helps to maintain a healthy heart and improved immune system. What this natural legume based extract is mostly known for is its powerful lipase-inhibiting features, which results in the prevention of fat absorption and an effective carbohydrate blocker.

Brett & Andrea Griffin, Valentus Canada
www.weightlosscoffeehub.com

Pain is the number one reason why people come to my clinic for massage therapy treatments. Having suffered from over 20 years of chronic neck pain myself, I can empathize and relate to their misery. It has been my experience that those who are able to overcome pain and restricted mobility take an active role in their healing journey. Clients that are curious, interested and willing to experiment, are those that enjoy better quality of life. My personal and professional experience has taught me that the reasons for pain are many. Here are some that you might not know about:

1. Trigger Points- These are hard lumps found in muscle tissue and can refer pain to other areas of the body. Overuse, underuse, a cold breeze, hormonal imbalance are just a few of the reasons trigger points develop. Massage therapy is an excellent way to find and resolve this painful condition.
2. Sensory Motor Amnesia- SMA describes inefficient patterns of muscular activation that are so habitual you can’t sense or control them. For example, you might have simply forgotten how to relax areas such as the neck, low back and shoulders, or how to activate muscles like the glutes or abs. This leads to weakness, inefficiency, poor coordination and eventually pain. Soma Yoga is a wonderful way to learn body awareness and overcome SMA.
3. Nutritional Deficiency- Many clinical trials have been done proving the connection between nutritional deficiency and low energy, general malaise and chronic pain. Common deficiencies linked to nerve, joint and muscle pain are Vitamin B12, C, D, and magnesium. A visit to a Naturopathic Doctor can be very helpful and informative for individual assessment.
4. Chronic Inflammation- There are many reasons why inflammation sets up in the body. One very common reason is food sensitivity, resulting in chronic inflammation. Common foods that can be inflammatory are: gluten, sugar, corn, soy, and dairy. Another group is the nightshades: tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, chilies and hemp seed. Trying an elimination diet or having testing done can help to determine food sensitivities.
5. Suppressed Emotions- Dr. John E. Sarno is a New York Times bestselling author and respected physician. He continues to research the vital connection between mind and body. Dr. Sarno has clinically proven how many painful conditions-including neck and back pain, migraine, repetitive stress injuries, and whiplash are rooted in repressed emotions. To learn more, read his book The Mind Body Prescription.

I encourage all clients to take an active role in their health. To take the time to explore the many possible reasons why they are experiencing pain. Often times it is like solving a puzzle, figuring out what works and what doesn’t. Life is a journey, and sometimes the road is winding and challenging, giving us the opportunity to learn and grow.

Katie White RMT, HTP, CYT, Courtenay Massage Therapy
www.courtenaymassagetherapy.com

Long ago, mystic and healing traditions identified seven primary energy centers within the body known as chakras. These energy wheels are understood to be receivers, transformers and transmitters of information and frequency. They are thought to govern respective organ and glandular systems, and to be directly linked to mental, physical and spiritual attributes and abilities. Holistic healers and certain alternative health practitioners use various methods to unblock and cleanse chakras of stagnant, dense, or toxic energy, restoring them to optimal resonance and balance, and providing an energetic foundation for healing. Two excellent tools for cleansing and restoring balance to the chakras are crystals and essential oils. When searching for essential oils for therapeutic benefit, it is imperative to use only the highest quality and purity oils available. A knowledgeable healer can guide you in your selection and use of essential oils depending upon your presenting mental/emotional, physical and spiritual conditions.

Nelson Meggitt
www.optimumwellnessfactor.ca

Given my personal experiences and background as a clinical social worker I’ve come to understand what I believe is the meaning of healing. It’s not about mending bones and strengthening muscles, it’s about a form of acceptance I’ve come to know as “sweet surrender”. What exactly is “sweet surrender”? A recent article in Psychology Today (April 2016 Toni Bernhard) describes it nicely in terms of “giving in”: giving in brings relief from the exhausting (and ultimately losing) battle against the turn your life has taken. It makes you feel better, both mentally and physically, to never side against yourself. You could turn that into a vow: “I will never side against myself.” There’s no reason to jump to the conclusion that chronic illness (which includes chronic pain) has ruined your life. A good life can take many forms. Try giving in—gently and with kindness—to what you cannot control.

Rod Chant MSW RSW RCC – Comox Valley Counselling Services
www.comoxvalleycounselling.ca