Studies show that noise has a powerful physical effect on our brains, causing elevated levels of stress hormones. Noise has also been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, tinnitus, and loss of sleep.
But now science has proof that not only noise HURTS, but that silence HEALS. Silence relieves stress and tension in our bodies, is replenishing, and nourishes our cognitive resources. Noise makes us lose our concentration, cognitive powers, and causes decreased motivation and brain functioning.
Perhaps the ancient masters had it right. Spending time in silence can immediately relax us, promote healing, and balance the body and mind.
Community News
Gut Feeling
Poor gut health has been linked to fatigue, mood disorders like depression and anxiety, and a variety of conditions associated with nutrient deficiencies, such as anemia. Fibre is a great way to keep things regular and increase the elimination of toxins and waste from your digestive tract. Eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains and grasses. If reaching the recommended 10 servings of vegetables per day seems unattainable, consider adding a greens powder to your daily routine to make things easier. Look for a product that is gluten-free, contains probiotics, and is cold-pressed, as this maintains enzymes that improve the digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Optimize Your Health
Optimize your neurology and you optimize your health! Did you know that the metatarsal area of your foot has over 10,000 nerve receptors? Their main purpose in life is to report back to your brain, via your nervous system, what is happening in your body. A neurological problem, such as MS, Parkinson’s, and Fibromyalgia can compromise messaging to the brain. Voxxlife HPT helps to improve that communication. VOXX HPT is a very specific sequence and pattern of neuroreceptor activation on the bottom of the feet that triggers a signal that aides in the brainstem reaching homeostasis. Voxxlife is a proud “cause-partner” with the Canadian MS Society.
Keep Your Joints Happy
Many of us have an old injury, or joint that tends to stiffen up with a change in weather. With an increase in barometric pressure or humidity, especially in these nasty cold spells we’ve been experiencing, our joints get cold and cranky just like the rest of us. These changes cause the “synovial fluid” in our joints to increase in viscosity, causing inflammation. A few easy ways to keep our joints happy is with extra layers of warmth. For examples: Wearing Long John’s, a knee or elbow sleeve, tensor bandage or even putting your clothes in the dryer before putting them on. Stay warm out there!
Maximize Activity after Surgery
Almost 56,000 hip replacements and 67,000 knee replacements were performed in Canada in 2016-2017. To assist in successful outcomes of increased function and mobility, physiotherapy is critical after surgery. Increasing post-operative activity benefits your strength, endurance, balance, flexibility, energy, weight, outlook, and the ability to ward off other health problems. Your new knee or hip allows for greater independence through movement. Early return of joint range of motion and weight bearing is key to recovery, and physiotherapy is important in getting you back to your old self. Discuss a personalized rehabilitation plan with your physiotherapist and enjoy a successful outcome.
Benefits of Companionship
Whether it is a close friendship or an intimate relationship, social interaction is needed to prevent health decline in seniors. Loneliness is a risk factor for functional decline in adults over the age of 60. Something as simple as a friendship can enhance aging hearts and strengthen the immune system. Companionship can decrease the physical risk of disease by lowering blood pressure, heart rate, and cholesterol. The psychological benefits include increased self-esteem, decreased stress, and a sense of belonging. Older adults can also benefit from having a pet. Dogs, in particular, can open seniors up to new activities and interests.
4 Tips to Sleep Like a Baby!
Diffuse essential oils in your bedroom like Lavender, Cedarwood, and Bergamot. These have well-known relaxing properties. Shut off screens at least 1 hour before you want to go to bed (including iPads and phones). The blue light that is emitted from our screens can actually disrupt sleep! Invest in a sleep mask, blackout blinds and a pair of ear plugs. Imagine how deep your sleep will become when the world is silent & there is no light sneaking in. And lastly, avoid sugars, alcohol, chocolate and candy 2 hours before bed, since these spike our insulin. Ready, set, ZZZ!
Product Review: Ideal Protein
The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Method was developed by Dr. Tran Tieh Chanh, MD, PhD, who spent much of his career conducting research on nutrition and the treatment of obesity. The method consists of four phases that have a beginning and an end. It is a medically derived weight loss method that is predictable, repeatable, and measurable. By carefully following the Ideal Protein Protocol, your body will respond by using the fat as its primary source of energy, rather than carbohydrates first. The method also involves personal coaching to ensure your weight loss journey is successful and has long-term results.
ADHD vs. Visual Dysfunction
Children diagnosed with Learning-Related Visual Dysfunction and children diagnosed with ADHD experience many of the same signs and symptoms:
• Failure to pay close attention to details or making careless mistakes
• Difficulty sustaining attention
• Failure to follow through on instructions or to finish work
• Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
• Fidgeting in seat or having trouble staying seated. As a result, unfortunately, children can sometimes be misdiagnosed. A developmental eye evaluation can determine whether a Learning-Related Visual Dysfunction is causing behavior that may otherwise be attributed to ADHD.
Coping with SAD
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is more than just what people refer to as the “winter blues”. Those who have it find it difficult to function in daily life. So, what can you do if you find yourself experiencing seasonal sadness? 1. Increase sunlight exposure (even if it is a scare amount). Consider getting an artificial sunlight lamp. 2. Exercise. This can relieve stress, build energy levels, and improve physical well-being. 3. Take a supplement. Vitamin D3, specifically, has positive effects on mood and seasonal affective disorder. 4. Get a massage. Besides feeling great, it can also improve your mood.
Relationships in Motion Program
Relationships take skill and energy to manage successfully. If you’re feeling bogged down by the relationships in your life, consider taking the Red Deer PCN program, “Relationships in Motion.” Participants will learn skills to increase communication, better understand themselves, focus on the positive, and take responsibility for their roles within various interpersonal relationships. This group program is interactive and gives opportunities for self-reflection and skill development. Participants must be 18 of age or older and can self-refer or be referred by their family physician. Call 403-343-9100 to register. Visit website to learn more.
