Community News
Be Mindful not Mind-Full

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.

Hearing Loss & Cognitive Decline

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.

Let’s Talk & Take Action

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.

Importance of a Will

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.

Words to Live By

“We do not have to become heroes overnight. Just a step at a time, meeting each thing that comes up, seeing it is not as dreadful as it appeared, discovering we have the strength to stare it down.” –Eleanor Roosevelt

Words to Live By

“Great things are not done by impulse, but by a series of small things brought together.” – Vincent van Gogh

Workplace Wellness

Creating a Resolution to Model.
Want to make your work a place where you can be healthy and productive? The best way to do that is to be an Ambassador of well-being yourself. All it takes is some passion, energy and action. Ask your boss if you can spend 5% of your week (only 30 mins!) to generate workplace health and productivity ideas. Some ideas to get you started include walking meetings, putting up posters by the elevator to encourage stair use, organizing a monthly healthy potluck, or dedicating a meeting room for mindfulness or meditation during the lunch hour.

Resolve to Prevent Falls

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.

Inspired by Health Basics

“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!”

Happy New Year!

“Wishing you and your family a joyful, bright, healthy, prosperous and happiest new year ahead!” Pauline Mousseau – Publisher and Franchise Partner of Wellnessnews Canada, Inc.

Second Annual Winter Luncheon

Jan. 27, 11:15 am. The Lending Cupboard’s Second Annual Winter Luncheon fundraiser features Arlene Dickinson! Ms. Dickinson’s leadership has been recognized many times, including Canada’s Most Powerful Women Top 100 Hall of Fame and Chatelaine’s Top 100 Women Business Owners. She sits on several public and private boards and is actively involved in supporting the community. See ad for more details.