Now that the holidays are over, many of us will go back to our busy lives, resulting in less time to spend with family and friends. We challenge you to keep an element of “Holiday Quality Time” going in January and throughout the year. We encourage you to see someone close to you with more frequency than you did in 2023. You will both benefit. A previous director of the Harvard Grant Study, a 75-year comprehensive study of adult development and happiness, said, “The only thing that matters in life are your relationships with other people.” (George Vaillant)
Community News
Take Extra Care in Winter
‘Tis the season for freezing temperatures and slippery conditions that can lead to falls; falls that can result in serious injuries. In addition to obvious hazardous environmental conditions, the winter months bring with them unique characteristics and combinations of conditions that contribute to a higher risk of falling. Hypothermia, vitamin D deficiencies, and bringing winter risks indoors is among them. Work to help prevent winter falls by wearing foot wear that provides a good grip, dressing warmly – try layering your clothes, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about vitamin D supplements and clean up any puddles from any weather you’ve tracked inside your home.
Cold Weather and Eczema
Winter exacerbates eczema, a skin condition characterized by inflammation and itchiness. The cold, dry air strips the skin of its natural moisture, leading to increased sensitivity and irritation. Harsh winds and indoor heating systems further contribute to the problem, aggravating existing symptoms. To combat winter-induced eczema, prioritize hydration by using rich moisturizers and gentle, fragrance-free skincare products. Avoid hot showers that can strip away natural oils and opt for lukewarm water instead. Dress in layers to protect the skin from extreme temperatures, and consider using a humidifier to add moisture to indoor air. Regular skincare maintenance is crucial to manage eczema during the winter months.
January 2024 New Year’s Resolutions
A common ritual around the New Year is to make resolutions for the upcoming year. For many, these resolutions are typically broken within the first couple of weeks. The greatest challenge with these resolutions is that they are focused on what we ‘think we should do’ as opposed to what would be really helpful to us. Common resolutions are: to exercise more, lose weight, quit smoking and so on. Now, all of those ideas are healthy; however, they are not always a good plan for self-care. Make your New Year’s resolutions about increasing self-care, which is about finding activities you enjoy doing and doing them regularly!
Remedy for Arthritis Pain
Arthritis is the development of calcium crystals in the body. It is especially painful when it develops in the joints. Contrary to common belief, it is not a normal part of aging. Crystals will develop if a body has been inactive for as little as two to three weeks. You can get rid of the calcium crystals in your body and, therefore, the symptoms of arthritis, by using movement. There are massage techniques that can be done by a practitioner, or you can learn how to perform these movements on yourself. Contact me for more information on massage services and self-massage classes.
Welcome 2024!
Did you make a New Year’s Resolution to concentrate on health and wellness? The WellnessHub, our local, online Health and Wellness resource has great information to help you with your health and wellness journey. It features hundreds of health tips and articles on a variety of health and wellness topics along with a directory of hundreds of local businesses and practitioners offering services and products. It is easy to search, access and share information. While you are checking out the WellnessHub, don’t forget to enter the January Contest. The draw date is January 31, 2024. Happy New Year!
Danger of Negative Thoughts
Do you find yourself having negative thoughts? Negative thinking can be very harmful to our mental and physical health and make us weak. If we think, “I can’t do this” or “I am worthless,” we start to believe that it’s true. It is up to us to dismiss them. Thoughts are like clouds floating in the sky. We have the choice to latch onto them or to let them float by. What we latch onto most, whether positive or negative, becomes the trend. Positive thoughts make us strong. Make 2024 the year to be strong in mind and body.
It’s a New Year! Create a New You!
It is time to remove any negative thoughts that have accumulated during the past year. Negative attitudes and thoughts can be harmful to your health and well-being. They can create chronic stress, which may damage your immune system, upset your hormone balance and cause other health issues. Let me help you create a successful 2024 by helping you remove negative thoughts. Call today for a complimentary information session and discover how to release those negative patterns that no longer serve you. Are you searching for wellness talk topics? Let’s chat!
Health Benefits of Acupuncture
Acupuncture, an ancient healing practice, offers holistic wellness benefits. By stimulating specific points in the body, it promotes energy flow, aiding in pain relief, stress reduction and improved circulation. This technique, rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, can alleviate migraines and back pain, and even aid in managing chronic conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Acupuncture also supports mental health by reducing anxiety and enhancing relaxation. Incorporating acupuncture as a complementary therapy alongside modern medicine fosters a balanced approach to health. Boost the effectiveness of an acupuncture session by being well-hydrated. Acupuncture is covered by Extended Health Care Plans.
Support is a Game Changer
2024 Post-holiday debt can pile up quickly and become overwhelming. The stress of overdue bills can tempt us to use gambling as a quick fix. Gambling can cost us everything—not only our money but our mental and physical health, especially when we are seeking financial or emotional relief. Free tools and confidential supports are available, including voluntary self-exclusions, gambling-blocking apps (GamBan, GamBlock), a 24/7 toll-free phone line, credit counsellors, financial advisors, ministers, pastors, podcasts (Fold ’Em), or connect with us. Support is a game-changer!
Smoking Cessation Action Plan
Did you make a New Year’s resolution to stop smoking? Your pharmacist can provide advice and guide you through this journey. Here’s an action plan: *Choose a starting point—pick a date, tell your friends and family, and ask them for support. *Meet your pharmacist to help determine how dependent you are on nicotine. *Follow a personalized treatment plan; your pharmacist can prescribe a tailored solution, including nicotine replacement products. *Reward yourself when you’re progressing. Many benefits of a smoke-free life can be felt in the long term, and some benefits are almost instant, so keep on going!
