December can be a challenging month at the best of times. The pandemic has taken its toll on us emotionally, physically, intellectually, spiritually, and financially. Online gambling has increased in popularity while land-based venues have reopened where players have renewed their patronage. If gambling used to be a light-hearted and fun activity but has changed to become an outlet or longshot for financial and/or emotional stress relief, connect with us at VI Gaming Support. You can reach us by phone, text, email, social media (Facebook & Instagram), or online on our website at VIGamingSupport.ca. Provincial toll-free support line 1-888-795-6111 is open 24/7.
Community News
Don’t Ignore Your Oral Health
During December, we tend to indulge in the many sweets offered during the holiday season. While enjoying all the goodies, don’t forget to maintain good oral health. It isn’t just about keeping your teeth and gums healthy – it can have an impact on the rest of your body as well. Research suggests that a buildup of dental plaque can be linked to other health issues, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes complications. Brushing and flossing away dental plaque each day can help keep buildup under control and limit your risk of other issues linked to poor oral health.
Glasses for Every Need
There are many reasons to wear eye glasses. Today’s frames come in a variety of styles to enhance your fashion style. Sun glasses provide UV protection and Blue Light blocking glasses protect your eyes from digital eye strain, blurred vision, and headaches. CSA certified safety glasses with American National Standards Institute’s ANSI Z87. 1-2010 markings are you best defense against eye injuries. Sport goggles provide you with maximum protection and optimum vision for your favourite sport. Our staff will ensure that you are fitted for your specific needs with precise measuring technology, high quality products and best ophthalmic lens option in the current market.
Community Profile: F45 Training
F45 Training is specifically designed to provide a functional full-body workout while improving energy levels, metabolic rate, strength and endurance. The F stands for functional training, a mix of circuit and HIIT Style workouts geared towards everyday movement. 45 is the total amount of time for sweat-dripping, heart-pumping fun. The workouts are designed to unify the muscle groups of the body and to help make you feel and perform better in all aspects of your life. The aim is to burn up to 750 calories per 45-minute session while working at your level. Trial memberships are available.
Don’t Drink & Drive
An average of 10 impaired driving criminal charges and short-term licence suspensions were laid every hour in Canada in 2019, as shown in a new report from MADD Canada. The report shows:
• 86,964 total charges and short-term suspensions were laid;
• 232 charges and short-term suspensions were laid for every 100,000 Canadians; and an
• Average of 238 charges and short-term suspensions were laid, daily.
Stay safe this season:
• Never operate a car or any other vehicle while impaired;
• Never ride with a driver who is impaired;
• Call 911 to report suspected impaired drivers.
Workplace Wellness This Holiday Season
The holidays bring plenty of joy, but it can also be a stressful season for many. Focus on workplace wellness to help employees maintain healthy habits and mental health. Choose healthy options for holiday events and give gifts of wellness to employees this year i.e., onsite massages or stress management lunch and learns. Encourage employees to stay active by hosting onsite yoga classes. Support employee’s financial wellness with minimal budgets on events and partnering with local business for discounts and promotions. Be mindful of your decisions and the impacts it may have on your employees. Healthy & Happy New Year!
Alzheimer’s & The Holiday Season
The holiday season can be tough for many including people with dementia, their families, and caregivers, but you are not alone. The Alzheimer Society of Manitoba can help you navigate through these difficult times. They can lend a listening ear and provide you with information, education, and support. Many of their programs are also available online including education sessions, support groups and the Minds in Motion® program, so you can join safely from the comfort of your own home. Contact the Alzheimer Society this holiday season to speak with someone who can help guide you through your next steps by visiting
alzheimer.mb.ca.
Workplace Wellness This Holiday Season
The holidays bring plenty of joy, but it can also be a stressful season for many. Focus on workplace wellness to help employees maintain healthy habits and mental health. Choose healthy options for holiday events and give gifts of wellness to employees this year i.e., onsite massages or stress management lunch and learns. Encourage employees to stay active by hosting onsite yoga classes. Support employee’s financial wellness with minimal budgets on events and partnering with local business for discounts and promotions. Be mindful of your decisions and the impacts it may have on your employees. Healthy & Happy New Year!
Beet Sangria Mocktail
Serves 8. Ingredients: 1 bottle Sensations Beet & Cherry Fruit & Vegetable Juice. 1 cup Compliments Low Pulp 100% Pure Orange Juice. 1 apple peeled and diced. 1 lemon thinly sliced. 1 lime thinly sliced. 1 orange thinly sliced. 1 can Panache Carbonated Spring Water with Natural Lemon Flavour and Ozone. Directions: In pitcher, combine beet and cherry juice, orange juice, apple, lemon, lime, and orange slices. Chill 1 hr., or until cold. Stir in ice and top with carbonated water. Pour into 8 glasses. Serve immediately. Enjoy! Find more healthy recipes at Sobeys.com
Protect Your Mental Health in Winter
Winter months can be difficult for those experiencing a mental health challenge or illness, especially during and following the holiday season. There are, however, a myriad of evidence-based ways to boost your physical and mental well-being. One important tool is vitamin D. Research clearly shows the benefits of this powerful vitamin for improving body and thereby brain health. Our bodies synthesize this nutrient through exposure to the sun. However, during reduced daylight months we are unable to get what we need from our solar source. If low mood persists, contact your healthcare provider for additional information and resources.
Monthly Lunches are a Big Success
Members had big smiles on their faces with having monthly lunches back. Members were able to sit down with friends and get a wonderful meal served at their table by our hard-working volunteers. Please look to our emails or website for more information. We have a Christmas lunch planned in December with all the fixings. Tickets typically go quickly so do not delay getting your tickets.
