Holistic Nutrition is an integrated look at health that incorporates the whole person – body, mind and spirit. It explores how diet, supplements, lifestyle choices, the health of our minds and spirituality all contribute to, or prevent, many diseases and poor health conditions. Holistic nutrition strives to find a balance amongst them, using evidence-based science and taking into consideration the health of the individual, society and the health of the planet. Natural nutrients have properties that are best described by these words: “live, natural, good quality”. These simple words can serve as a guide to everyone wishing to improve their health.
Community News
Are you wearing the wrong size bra?
Most women spend 16 hours per day in their bra. It is important to your long term health that it fits you properly, both in the band and the cup size. A bra that is too tight may cause tension on your shoulders, neck and back which can lead to headaches. A cup too small may dig into the tissue causing damage. Wearing a bra that is too loose does little good if it floats on your breasts allowing too much motion which can lead to pain and potential long terms damage to the breast tissue. A lingerie specialist can get you sized properly. It’s free and worth the trouble. You need to feel comfortable and look good in your bra.
Bottled Water Myth
Did you know that more than half of all bottled water comes from a tap? It costs up to $5.99 per litre compared to less than a penny for four litres of tap water. People buy bottled water believing that it is safer than tap water. This is mostly untrue. The best water you can drink is ionized water from a water ionizer. It is filtered by 16 stages of filtration to remove virtually all of the contaminants from the water. The water is then sent to a water electrolysis chamber where it is ionized, meaning the antioxidants are restored to the water. This recreates the natural alkaline water chemical structure and provides your body with alkalinity and detoxification.
The Power of Touch
Touch may well be one of the most unappreciated of the five senses.
Seniors in particular often miss the simple acts of touch and the many benefits that go along with them. There is the physical benefit but just as important, are the mental and emotional ones. Touch enhances the quality of your life. Research shows that touch triggers the hypothalamus which produces oxytocin. This has a number of different physiological effects including, reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, pain management, improving sleep and promoting relaxation. The human touch can especially benefit those with Alzheimer’s. It can benefit the caregiver as well.
Wellness – One Step at a time!
Wellness is an active, lifelong process of making decisions to help you live a more balanced and fulfilled life. Healthier, happier people tend to live longer and have higher energy levels. A sense of wellness helps improve mood and can improve depression. A simple thing that can easily be incorporated into our day that will improve wellness is walking! It doesn’t matter if you can only make it halfway down the street. Make a commitment to walk every day and before you know it, you will have made it right around the block. Invest in proper walking shoes and socks for added support and comfort.
Dangers of Social Isolation
Did you know that social isolation is the “new smoking” with respect to negative impact on health? Recent research confirms that individuals with adequate social relationships have a 50% greater likelihood of survival compared to those with poor or insufficient social relationships. Clearly, this is worth paying attention to! If you are a senior looking to try out some new activities, be sure to check out the many FREE special events happening from October 1 – November 1 during “Seniors Celebrate” month. Call 250-591-2924 or visit our website for details.
Live Theatre: KEY FOR TWO
Nanaimo Theatre Group opens their season October 12 with a British farce! In this wickedly amusing play, by two master craftsmen of comedy, Harriet, a divorcee living in an elegant flat in Brighton, solves her financial problems by entertaining Gordon and Alec, two married gentlemen callers, on different days of the week. The show runs Wednesdays to Sundays October 12-28 at the Bailey Studio, 2373 Rosstown Road in Nanaimo. Evening shows are 8 PM, matinees are 2 PM. All tickets are $20 and can be booked online or by calling 250-758-7224.
Dealing with Stress
Imagine a bucket slowly filling with water, one drop at a time. Eventually the bucket overflows. That is what stress is like. Chronic stress attacks our weaknesses, whether it’s physical; high blood pressure, heart disease; or emotional; depression, anxiety. Speaking with a trained professional can help deal with the debilitating effects of too much stress. Through a meaningful conversation with a counsellor, your stressors can be identified and a way to manage them determined. A caring, non-judgemental approach with a compassionate ear and a kind heart will help you develop confidence with your inherent goodness so you can move forward feeling happier.
Classes for Improved Health
The City of Nanaimo and Island Health have partnered to offer classes to improve your health. Programs are taught by Dr. Derek Poteryko who is a family physician and the Medical Director of Community Health in Nanaimo. Dr. Poteryko is passionate and committed to helping people live healthier and more fulfilling lives. Class topics include “The Skinny on Weight Loss”, “Don’t Worry Be Happy”, “Men’s Health”, “How to Make Nanaimo Health Care Better”, “Quit Smoking for Good” or Advanced Care Planning”. The cost to attend these programs is only $2. Please see page 60 of the Fall and Winter Activity Guide for details, call us at 250.756.5200 or visit our website.
Does Your Jaw Crack?
Ever opened your jaw wide and heard it crack? Do you sometimes feel like when you bite your teeth together that one side touches before the other? These can indicate a misalignment of the jaw. Over time, a jaw misalignment can lead to degeneration of the jaw joint. A jaw misalignment can be due to injury, uneven fillings or crowns, or it can be due to bone misalignment in the neck. The top bone in the neck, called the Atlas or C1, sits right beside the jaw joint, or TMJ. Studies have shown that when the Atlas misaligns, it can affect how the TMJ moves. Studies have also shown that an Atlas adjustment can correct some TMJ issues. Visit a chiropractor to learn more.
Meet Your Practitioner – Ahmed Omar, R.D.
Ahmed is one of a few denturist in the central Vancouver Island region who brings a full denture service to the comfort of his clients’ homes. Ahmed studied Oral and Dental Medicine at George Brown College and after graduating in 2013, he opened his clinic on Legion street in Chemainus. Tooth loss can cause a host of physical and emotional issues. If you are suffering with missing teeth, Ahmed will take the time to evaluate your condition and recommend the ideal solution for you. Whether you need partial dentures or full dentures, Ahmed Omar will present you with options and help you make the best decision for your mouth.
