Digestion, blood pumping through our veins, and breathing are just a few of the functional rhythms inside us that we rely upon to live. When we are unwell, we sometimes say that we are feeling ‘out of sorts’ or ‘out of sync’; it is a bit like losing one’s rhythm. We know when we have found it again because we feel more ‘in the groove’. Music therapy can be helpful in re-discovering that intrinsic rhythm when retrieving it ourselves is a struggle (as with mood and social cognitive disorders; rehabilitation from brain injury, stroke, or heart attack; cerebral palsy; Huntington’s disease; etc.).

During this global pandemic, the need for mental health support has increased fourfold. As an employee, the best thing you can do for your mental health is to be vocal. If you are struggling, speak up or use the Wellness Together Canada free resources. Waiting causes longer term damage impacting productivity and quality of life. If you are an employer, ask how you can support your team every day. Then, make or get a Mental Health First Aid kit and put it somewhere visible to demonstrate mental health is just as important as physical health. Include things like motivational cards, mindfulness colouring sheets, stress balls, breathing exercises and general resilience tips.

Dog Care Support for Seniors
Does a senior in your life need help caring for their dog? Our goal is to enable older adults, who are experiencing challenges with routine care, to continue to benefit from their relationship with their canine companions. We work to keep the love in the home.
ElderDog volunteers provide a range of support services, including:
• Dog walking
• Minor grooming such as help with brushing
• Transportation to and from a vet or groomer
• Temporary care during illness or hospitalization
• Rehoming when staying together is no longer possible
ElderDog volunteers who work with seniors are required to wear an approved photo ID and complete a police check for work with vulnerable persons. There are no fees for our services.

Move over, goji berries: there’s a new superfood in town. Meet the Aronia berry! Aronia berries have outstanding nutritional and pharmacological properties which have been well documented. They contain high levels of antioxidants which research has shown helps in fighting cancer, reduces inflammation, and helps to reduce blood glucose in diabetics. In the spectrum of nutrition, berries rank near the top, and among berries, none are more nutritious than the Aronia berry. Aronia berries contain five times the antioxidant level of goji berries with no bitter aftertaste.

Boost your pre or post workout by incorporating chlorophyll-rich greens with Coconut MCT into your daily routine. Studies have shown when taken before exercising, Coconut MCT may reduce lactic acid build up and encourage the body to burn more fat instead of carbs for energy. These can be found in a greens powder formula at your health food store and added to smoothies or water. Taking it in the morning can also make you feel more energized throughout the day. Look for a greens product with Coconut MCT and Maca for sustained energy plus shelf-stable probiotics included to lighten your supplement load!

Addiction is known to be a primary, chronic issue that occurs in the brain. It is a condition in which a person engages in the use of a substance or behaviours for which the rewarding effects provide a compelling incentive to repeatedly pursue the behaviour, despite detrimental resulting consequences. There is scientific evidence that the addictive substances and behaviours share a key neurobiological feature—they intensely activate brain pathways of reward and reinforcement, many of which involve the neurotransmitter dopamine. Some studies show that there are possible genetic factors, making some people more susceptible to addiction. Are you or someone you love suffering from addiction and looking for help?

When a Loved One Has Dementia
Loving someone with dementia can be a challenging task, one that puts a lot of pressure on a caregiver. Here are a few simple things to keep in mind: 1. Be realistic when it comes to expectations for yourself and for your loved one. 2. Develop a routine. Those with dementia can struggle with confusion and frustration. Especially as the disease progresses, it is important to create a solid routine and schedule to provide some predictability and help keep some peace of mind. 3. Focus on nutrition. There is a strong connection between lifestyle choices such as diet and memory diseases.

Are you dealing with symptoms that just won’t go away or just tired of the side effects of medications? Homeopathy, a gentle and natural medicine, may be just right for you. Homeopathy offers a holistic and complementary treatment for both chronic and acute diseases. It individualizes patient care by focusing on how symptoms of disease manifest in you, and not on the disease itself. After taking an in-depth look at your emotional, physical, and mental symptoms, your homeopath will create an individualized treatment plan. Homeopathic remedies are plant-based, non-toxic, and without side effects. They have proven highly effective and are safe for babies, pregnant women, the elderly, and pets.