Community News
Exercise for Mental Health

After a long day of work, or chasing children, or just trying to fit life into your schedule, the last thing you might think about is being active. However, staying active is part of a healthy lifestyle, and it has the added benefit of helping us feel happy. When we are active, our brain releases a chemical called serotonin. This chemical helps us feel happier. Feeling down? Start with a low-intensity activity such as walking. Bring the dog or your family along to share the experience. Other great activities include biking, doing yard work, swimming, and throwing a ball around. Still having a hard time fitting in being active? Try to add a little bit of activity to your work routine, especially if you have an office job. Stand at your desk instead of sitting. Take time during the day to stretch. Remember, small changes over time can make a big difference!

Ginseng for Weight Loss

Ginseng does many things to help human health, but many people do not realize that ginseng is good for weight loss. It gives an energy boost and can help fight fatigue. Because of this, it allows for you to be more active. One of the big things that it does in the weight loss battle is by regulating blood sugar. It does this by reducing the amount of carbohydrate that is converted into fat. Also, it is important to point out that ginseng alone will not help lose weight if you engage in poor dietary choices. It is vital that a well-balanced diet is followed and that you are active. Otherwise, like the old English proverb says, “Don’t dig your grave with your own knife and fork.” One of the active ingredients in SlimROAST weight loss coffee from Valentus – The Healthiest Coffee on the Planet!

Do you Suffer Exhaustion & Fatigue?

Do you wake up dreading the day coming on with its responsibilities like an overwhelming wave? The Japanese Acupuncture medical system recognizes that feeling that way can be linked to two possible physiological patterns. One is an immune system weakness, and the other is a low functioning thyroid gland. In both cases, there are Japanese Acupuncture treatment protocols that are painless, effective and very relaxing! Why is it important to address the issue? The Japanese research shows that long term immune weakness leads to Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and thyroid gland imbalance leads to adrenal fatigue. Traditional Chinese Medicine herbs such as Ginseng, Astragalus, and Cordyceps can improve the immune functions. For thyroid issues, we often recommend seaweeds such as Kelp. However, please see a Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioner, who can tailor both the treatment and herbal combination to your unique health needs. (Ref: Kiiko Matsumoto, Strategies, Vol.1)

How to Teach Children about Financial Health

Are you ready to give your kids “the talk”? Many families struggle helping their children learn about money management and financial health. A parent is the primary source for a child’s financial education, but most are reluctant to give the “money talk” as they fear their own personal financial situations make them a poor role model. To open a discussion about finance, allow children to be responsible for saving and spending their own money. A small allowance and piggy bank provide opportunities to start learning about long-term financial stability. Together, you can learn how to save for a goal, balance income and expenses, budget purchases, and learn about the effects of interest. It is never too late for parents to set a positive example, and nurture positive financial techniques. Take the first step towards a healthier future for you and your family by seeking help from a debt specialist.

Dentures Jeopardizing Your Health?

Many people are not aware that by not making frequent visits to their Denturist Office (every 2-3 years), their overall oral health may be jeopardized making their denture wearing ability and comfort harder to achieve. Changes occur in both the bone structure and soft tissues of your mouth. Usually, a simple reline or rebase can refit the denture to the gums causing a more comfortable and tighter fit. However, between the 5-8 year mark, the actual denture teeth may be worn down enough to cause damage to your tempo mandibular joint from over closing. This over closing can also lead to cracking of the corners of the lips, aging of the face, or even headaches. Denturists are your denture specialists and are trained to spot these problems and correct them.

IQ and Nutrition

What if you could increase your child’s IQ with nutrition? Inhabitants of a tiny island off the coast of Japan have the highest IQ scores in the world and produce seven times as many geniuses as any other place in the world. Seniors living there don’t seem to struggle with cognitive decline either. The secret: DHA, an essential fatty acid found in fish, krill, squid and some algae. The brain is made mostly of fat, 60% of which is DHA. DHA is found in mother’s milk and has long been recognized as aiding IQ scores in children. Almost everyone nowadays is deficient in DHA. This may be one of the reasons for the increased rates of ADHD, learning disabilities and autism as well as increasing rates of Alzheimer’s disease and other age-related cognitive problems.

Vitamin C is Not Ascorbic Acid

Mass-produced Vitamin C is a synthetic replication of one part of Vitamin C. It can be irritating and hard on the system. Vitamin C in its whole-food, natural form is a powerful antioxidant and water-soluble vitamin that needs to be eaten as food regularly; brightly coloured fruits and vegetables are a good source. Cosmetic applications often include Vitamin C as a fat-soluble, lab-altered version (e.g.,; Ester C, Liposomal Vit C). These versions of Vitamin C can oxidize (especially with sun exposure) and create more damage the longer you use them. The solution? Topically, look for products in air-free dispensers (not oxidized!) that contain food sources like Camu Camu or Ascerola Cherry. Or.. for a more youthful, brighter complexion, rub your organic fruit peel on your skin every day!

Feeling Anxious or Jumpy?

Anxiety is a normal response to life stress — when we encounter situations we don’t want, we tend to either run away, feel frozen in place, or to stay and fight. We do whatever we can to manage the situation. But sometimes anxiety sticks around — we have trouble sleeping maybe, or with concentration, or with eating. Sometimes we experience panicky feelings. Our minds rev up as we try to problem solve, or our body tells us that things aren’t settled yet. You might want help processing what is happening to you. Counseling is a safe, non-judgemental place to talk freely, learn new calming techniques, and explore new approaches to whatever is on your mind.

Clean Eating Recipe: BETTER THAN MAYO

A great spread on crackers or sliced veggies, used as a dip or salad dressing, or as a topping on Sunburgers.

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 cup raw cashews

– 3/4 cup water

– 1 tbsp olive oil

– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

– 1 1/2 tsp Italian spices

– 1/2 tsp sea salt

– dash of cayenne

Place all ingredients in a blender. Can blend right away, or soak 1 hour for a smoother texture. Blend until smooth. Store in fridge. Stays fresh for several days, but is so tasty you’ll probably eat it sooner.

Uncooking with RawRose – rawrose.com. Your guide to Raw Foods, book available at Rawthentic Eatery.

Clean Eating Recipe: Strawberry Chia Jam

Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein. They will absorb several times their mass in liquid, creating a jelly-like substance in the process. Instead of cooking fruit down, relying on pectin, and adding sugar to help it set, all we need to do is mash up some fruit and stir in a few tablespoons of chia seeds! So easy! Ingredients: 2 cups chopped strawberries, 1-2 tbsp lemon juice, 1-2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp chia seeds. Cook the berries on medium heat until they start to break down. Mash the fruit with the back of a spoon or a potato masher, leaving it as smooth or as lumpy as you like. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp of the honey and lemon juice. Stir in the chia seeds. Let stand until thickened. If you’d like a thicker consistency, stir in more chia seeds 1 tsp at a time. The jam will thicken further and become more set once completely chilled.

Mental Health Resources

Did you know that the Canadian Mental Health Association has information online regarding different mental health issues? As well, your local Canadian Mental Health Association branch can answer any questions you may have and provide services to the public. Workshops and courses are another great way to learn about these issues. The Canadian Mental Health Association along with other organizations in your community offer this service. Research what organizations are around you and call them to find out times, dates and whether courses are available for free at a cost. Visit your local library to take advantage of free resources or head to a bookstore or shop online to purchase.