Sleep is a foundational component of our health. Sleep is when we regenerate, repair and heal. We age faster if we are not sleeping well. Poor sleep is known to be linked to increases in diabetes, heart disease and neurodegenerative conditions. Sleep issues are often multifactorial. They can be a combination of poor sleep hygiene, side-effects from medication, stress, eating too late, hormone imbalance, over-consumption of stimulants and excess screen time. If you or someone you know is experiencing poor sleep or insomnia, let us help you develop a customized treatment plan and get you back to feeling energetic and fully rested.

To eliminate the pain of any form of musculo-skeletal injury and to regenerate any joint, especially with osteo-arthritic elements; acupuncture and Prolozone injection therapy are my treatment protocols. Each component of Prolozone therapy has a specific biological purpose. Procaine acts to re-establish cellular membrane potentials. Anti-inflammatory agents decrease edema and swelling. The inclusion of vitamins and minerals provides necessary substrates of oxygen utilization that in damaged tissues are often deficient. And finally, oxygen utilization is directly stimulated by ozone. In many cases Prolozone actually corrects the pathology of the disorder, there is a 75% chance for the chronic pain sufferer to
becoming permanently pain free.

During difficult times, you can use sound and soothing music to help with relaxation. Try this simple exercise: sit quietly for a few moments and then think of a very loving experience. As you think of this loving experience, begin to sound a very gentle “ah” sound. Make this sound as a long, extended sound: “Aaaaaahhhhh” and think about love, peace and calm. Feel your heart chakra resonate with this sound. Feel your heart center opening, balancing and aligning with this energy. The “ah” sound is excellent for working with the energy of the heart center and triggering relaxation.

Today, with changes in our activities and interrupted routines, building self-care into our day to reduce stress becomes even more essential. Some self-care ideas include •Exercise •Practicing deep breathing •Taking a bath •Taking a break from the digital world. Please stay at home as much as possible and practise physical distancing when you go out. At Medicine Shoppe, we take safety very seriously. To allow for extra cleaning, our hours have been temporarily reduced to Mon-Fri 10 – 5 and Sat 10 – 4. We limit customers to two at a time. We also offer free delivery or curbside pick-up.

What should you do if your mental health is suffering during self-isolation? Here are some tips: 1. Maintain routine. It helps to manage anxiety and will help you to adapt more quickly to this current reality. 2. Engage with Nature. Make the most of any private outdoor space you have. Getting sunshine is imperative for a healthy mind. 3. Try something new. Now is a great time to learn how to sew or tackle a DIY project. 4. Limit your news intake. A near-constant stream of news reports about an outbreak can cause anyone to feel distressed. 5. Stay connected. Download a video chat app and have fun chatting with friends and family.

ACTIVE RELEAF aims to encourage active wellness through the use of nature’s most powerful ingredients. Offering a collection of plant-based wellness products, ACTIVE RELEAF’s WELLNESS TINCTURE is their strongest remedy. Used as a natural plant-based alternative for people experiencing anxiety, insomnia, pain, inflammation and other ailments. The WELLNESS TINCTURE is formulated with a high concentration of broad spectrum cannabinoid-rich hemp plant extract, paired with coconut MCT oil to help deliver cannabinoids and increase bioavailability. Taken sublingually (under the tongue) or mixed into your favourite beverage. With three different concentration options (400mg, 1000mg & 2000mg) and measured droppers, dosing is accurate and flexible for your needs.

This is a challenging time for many as our lifestyles are being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Social Isolation, especially among seniors, is a growing problem and is associated with a number of health risks. Technology can help us stay connected through social media platforms but not everyone has access or ability to use them. The Nanaimo Lifeline Check-In Service offers a daily phone call to those who might not be connected. We provide a friendly chat that gives peace of mind and ensures someone knows you are doing Ok today. When so many people are obliged to stay at home, this could be the ideal time to sign up.