Restorative sleep brings optimal health. Does your mind run all night? Does the need to urinate keep you up? In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), there are three types of insomnia. The first relates to the heart where your mind can’t turn off at night, the second is due to liver yang rising and not properly shunting the blood. The third relates to the kidney in which one wakes several times in the night and feels unrested when morning comes. A customized treatment plan is created in TCM depending on your symptoms and situation.

Do you feel like you are in an emotional spin cycle? This emotional spin cycle can occur when we get caught up in never-ending fears and worries, or get stuck going over and over problems, or issues without being able to clearly think it through or resolve it. All of this causes stress. You can let go of fear and worry and be peaceful and calm. You can regain your clarity and confidence, see other options and perspectives, enabling you to resolve problems and issues. It is possible to stop the spin cycle, with emotional wellness and Tapping.

Thanks to the web and social media today, we’re exposed to more than most grandparents were exposed to in a lifetime. It’s no wonder we get overwhelmed at times. The best way to manage a full mind, is to practice mindfulness. Being mindful allows our brains to process information, be present, and enjoy the moment. Here are three tips. One: take five minutes before getting out of the car before or after work to just BE. Two: practice the 5/5 rule by noticing five things about each of your senses once a day. Three: Stop multi-tasking at least once a day.

Researchers have found that even the earliest stage of hearing loss – when hearing is still considered normal (0-25dB) – is linked to cognitive decline. Most people with hearing loss believe they can go about their lives just fine without treatment, and maybe some can, but hearing loss is not benign. It has been linked to social isolation, depression, cognitive decline, diabetes, dementia, and other health problems. Hearing loss should be treated, and the earlier, the better. Studies show hearing aids can slow cognitive decline in older people with age-related hearing loss.

Our harsh Alberta winters takes its toll on us. Frigid weather combined with reduced sunshine can create a depressing environment that limits our physical and mental potential. Physical and mental health are very interconnected, with each aspect suffering when the other is out of sync. Embrace Bell’s Let’s Talk principles in your life – language matters, educate yourself, be kind, listen and ask and simply talk about it. We believe in an integrated approach to health and wellness by providing resources and practitioners that can help your journey towards physical and mental wellness.

Drafting a will is one of your most important responsibilities in life. It reduces the burden on your loved ones to deal with your estate financial matters. A will provides you with the authority to decide several things: who your personal representative (executor) will be to administer your estate; who your beneficiaries will be and what assets they will receive; as well as create trusts for children with disabilities, spouses, or aging parents. A will should not be considered a once-in-a-lifetime event but rather should reflect your current situation and be updated throughout your life as your circumstances change.

Slippery floors, poor lighting, loose rugs, electrical cords and clutter – all can be addressed proactively to prevent dangerous situations. Visit each room in your home. Look at the space objectively and ask, “Is this safe? Are there objects or items that present a risk?” If so, think about ways to create a safer home like to wear non slip socks or slippers, use night lights in dark hallways, remove throw rugs, keep electrical cords safely hidden behind furniture and organize your projects so they are off the floor and out of walkways.

“I loved the program! It inspired me to take my health seriously and I got great results. The coaches really made me feel good about myself. I lost 4 pounds and 3.5 inches off my waist and I am still losing,” a recent Health Basics grad declared. “My blood pressure is lower, I need fewer meds and I strengthened my core and the back pain is gone. The swelling in my ankle and leg is gone. I do a 30-minute exercise class daily. I am so enthused and fired up for life. I really want to be healthy. It feels great!”