Community News
Simple and Supportive Cremation Care

Most of us have lost a loved one, someone that we care about deeply. If we haven’t, we know at some point we will. We hope that in our time of loss, we can reach out to someone to help us through, and so Branch & Pyre was created.
We’re a place families can call when a death occurs and be guided through one of the most difficult times of our lives, making cremation arrangements for a loved one.
We’re here to help your family with a compassionate approach every step of the way.

Igniting Your Passion

Awakening your tender heart opens your passion and life force, welcoming the juices that frees your soul to ~Pass-I-on ~ wherever you go & in whatever you do. Embodying and knowing that each breath matters; where we put our focus and attention, what we value and how we choose to spend our time is who we become. Take nothing for granted as you taste the many flavors of desire that energize your joy and pleasure. Swim in that pool each day, bathing yourself and igniting your fire that fuels your heart to thrive. Choose to become curious and impassioned with and by life.

Enriching the Life of Your Pet

Keeping your pet in good physical shape is an important part of their wellness, but it’s crucial to provide mental stimulation and enrichment for them as well. Depending on the breed and personality of your dog, a walk doesn’t always provide enough stimulation. Drop-in visits from a pet sitter give your dog the opportunity for an extra play session during the day. For high energy dogs, or those needing more socialization, daycare is a great option. Even if it’s not every day, it gives your dog something to look forward to during the week. There are also many cognitive enrichment toys and puzzles you can purchase for your dogs, cats and birds to keep their minds sharp.

What is Brainspotting?

Brainspotting is a brain-based therapy used for helping clients to process traumatic memories, experiences, or emotions. It is a “bottom-up” therapy, meaning it focuses on processing information stored in the mid-brain (emotional center), as opposed to talk therapy, which is a “top-down” therapy focused on processing information stored in the cerebral cortex (logical center). BSP often helps clients experience unique breakthroughs by reducing reactivity, unlocking creativity, processing trauma, and generally working toward significant progress in their healing journey. You may find that you experience fewer intrusive thoughts, less emotional activation, and an increased sense of freedom, fulfillment, or peace in various areas of life.

Help for Anxiety

Anxiety – people may shy away from talking about anxiety, but we need to understand it is common AND there are ways to mitigate its impact. Financial worries, relationship or work stress, even something like a stranger passing by can be the trigger. Imagine Laserworks helps you reduce the effects of anxiety and the impact of it on your life. We allow you to regain focus and control by helping promote hormonal equilibrium and balanced endorphin production. No drugs, no needles, non-judgmental support. The effects can often be felt before you even leave the office.

Sound and Light Can Heal the Body

RAYD8® REGEN is Natural Frequency Rejuvenation Technology that uses light and sound frequencies to help your body relax and heal. Using simple display screens aligned together in a geometrical pattern, the cells of your body become recharged and revitalized, aiding your body’s natural recovery and increased vitality. It helps you achieve a deep meditative state, calming and relaxing you to increase the effectiveness of the healing process. Ideally Blissful has just opened a RAYD8® REGEN Centre in Duncan. Come and experience this amazing technology firsthand and enjoy 50% off your first session.

Watch Out for Caregiver Burnout

Caregiver burnout is the emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion that occurs when caring for others. Family caregivers who are experiencing burnout may feel depression, anxiety, fatigue, and even physical ailments such as pain or illness. If you are a caregiver for a loved one, be honest about how much care you can realistically provide. Seek help, such as by talking to a trusted friend or co-worker; find a support group; and be realistic about your loved one’s state of health. Recognize that it may be time to hire outside caregivers. We are here to help.

What is Pharmaceutical Compounding?

Compounding pharmacies provide personalized medication solutions tailored to individual patient needs. Unlike traditional pharmacies, which dispense mass-produced medications, compounding pharmacies specialize in customizing prescriptions. They combine pharmaceutical ingredients to create formulations in unique dosages, forms, and flavors, accommodating patients with allergies, sensitivities, or specific medical requirements. Compounding pharmacists work closely with healthcare providers to develop medications not commercially available or to alter existing formulations. This personalized approach enhances treatment efficacy, promotes patient adherence, and addresses therapeutic gaps. Overall, they offer a vital service in healthcare, ensuring tailored and effective treatments for diverse patient populations.

CNOY Fundraising Event

Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is a winterrific, family-friendly 2- or 5-km fundraising walk in support of local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. On February 22, 2025, Canadians in over 200 communities will step outside the warmth and comfort of home to shine a light of welcome and compassion in their communities. In Cowichan Valley, CNOY helps the Canadian Mental Health Association Cowichan Valley provide shelter, care, and holistic support to women and families experiencing homelessness to heal and find hope. Learn more and get involved at CNOY.org/Duncan.

Seniors & Heart Health

Maintaining heart health is crucial for seniors, as aging increases the risk of cardiovascular conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and arrhythmias. Lifestyle changes can significantly improve heart health in older adults. Regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, strengthens the heart and lowers cholesterol. A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps manage weight and blood pressure. Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and managing stress are essential. Seniors should monitor heart health through routine check-ups, addressing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure promptly. Early detection and healthy habits promote longevity and overall well-being.

Relieve Neck Tension Safely

Are you feeling weighed down by neck tension? Our expert soft tissue-based adjustments and mobilizations offer a gentle, effective solution to help you relax tight, overworked muscles; improve range of motion and flexibility; and ease pain and discomfort. Our soft tissue therapy is tailored to your individual needs, while customized chiropractic adjustments are designed for comfort and effectiveness. Dr. Narotam specializes in personalized techniques that target the root cause of pain, improving mobility and promoting overall wellness. These techniques are designed to be safe, effective, and considerate of sensitive areas, focusing on easing tension and restoring balance without strain.