Jackie Kobsar, health advocate for over 20 years, struggled with daily stomach aches in her youth after every meal. Doctors sloughed it off as IBS, and offered no help, so her battle with constipation and diarrhea continued. Looking at options, she tried Colon Hydrotherapy at 15. The next morning, the first time in four years, she didn’t have a stomach ache and her life changed. Now part of her health regimen, she no longer has IBS symptoms. Thirteen years ago Jackie become an I-ACT Certified Colon Hydrotherapist and helps others on their health journey.

Jan. 19. 10 am – 5 pm. The Healthy Living Expo showcases exhibitors and demonstrators that promote all aspects of wellness, sustainability, innovation and a healthy lifestyle. Join us at the Harvest Centre at Westerner Park.

Jan. 28 11:15 am. The Lending Cupboard’s First Annual Winter Luncheon fundraiser features Jann Arden sharing her songs and experience with Alzheimer’s and her mother’s long goodbye. Join us at the Sheraton Hotel in Red Deer.

Several Winter classes to choose from such as Zen Inspired Landscape Cards, Watercolor Class and Lettering Art Guild led by Sally Towers-Sybblis. No experience necessary. Visit ‘Events’ section of SallyTowersSybblis.com or call 403-597-1594 to register.

One of the SIMPLEST ways to boost your immune system during cold and flu season is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! When dehydrated, your cells become less efficient at removing toxins AND the cells that form your skin, gut tract lining, and mucus membranes (e.g., lips and mouth) form tiny “micro-cracks”, which can allow even more water loss. These tiny openings can be points of entry for viruses and bacteria and are the easiest way for them to hijack your system. So, drink more water in the winter – don’t wait until you’re thirsty, make it a habit.

In the words of a past participant, “Learn to focus on your life rather than your pain.” Moving on with Chronic Pain is an 8-week group program teaches skills to decrease and better live with varying levels of chronic pain. Program features interactive sessions where participants learn the role the mind-body connection has in chronic pain, and how certain lifestyle factors can improve this relationship via simple changes, goal setting and practice. Discussion and a positive atmosphere foster both accountability and learning. Ask your doctor for a referral or self-refer by calling 403-343-9100.

You’re cuddling with your pet and are hit with a strange, ugly odor from their mouth. You think, when was the last time I brushed their teeth? Like most, the answer would be, never. Dental consultations and digital x-rays are an essential part in helping veterinarians perform the proper procedures needed on your pet since it detects any early infections or bone changes. Digital x-rays take the guessing work out of pet dental care – they increase extraction effectiveness making sure all pieces of the tooth are removing including the roots that can case pain and discomfort, and infection, when left behind.

A new year brings a sense of renewal, resolve and hope for improved health and happiness. Because your time, relationships and peace of mind are valuable, resolve that 2019 is the time to make your estate and health-related wishes known. It’s important to start talking about your wishes now, while you’re healthy and have the capacity to make these important life decisions. Seeking counsel regarding estate planning can address concerns about financial circumstances, ensure your intentions are fulfilled, navigate issues that may arise while in care, and manage the risk and expense of future estate litigation.

Holistic dentistry is not a dental specialty but a philosophy of practice that promotes health and wellness instead of the treatment of disease. It is a less toxic approach at fixing oral issues in order to better a patient’s teeth, mouth and overall health. Riverstone Dental Clinic’s goal is to treat patients in the safest and most natural way possible while still providing all the modern dentistry you would expect of a dental office and provide a lifetime of healthy smiles. We are fluoride-free and do not support the use of Amalgam (mercury) fillings.

Mark your calendar to go to Udaya Wellness Clinic’s Grand Opening February 23 from 12 pm to 4 pm. This new and innovative wellness clinic opens in January 2019! They bring new and collaborative health programs to the area, business partners Dr. Candice Staniek and Stephen Roberts, Counsellor/Brainspotting Specialist have gathered a team of specialized practitioners to create a space where you can experience the very best complete, holistic care; physically, mentally, socially and spiritually. This synergistic approach addresses your whole health, through programs that are individually customized for optimal results.

A new year, a new you. The new year often brings resolutions to make positive changes in eating habits and patterns. We all have favourite foods we reach for when feeling stressed, lonely or down. With Emotional Wellness and EFT/Tapping, the need and desire to calm ourselves with these foods and drinks can be eliminated as it enables us to recall a happy memory to calm ourselves in times of stress. Clients can have a strong desire for the food or drink at the beginning of the session and by the end, want to throw it in the garbage. Marnel Hesterman, InciteInspirations.com