The Red Deer Doula Association (RDDA) is a non-profit organization formed to provide information to the public and expectant parents in central Alberta about their labour and postpartum support doula options, while operating as a network and support group for fellow doulas. RDDA doulas are trained and committed to helping couples have the type of birth they desire. They provide emotional support, physical comfort measures, and encouragement during labour, delivery, and beyond. RDDA doulas are a wealth of information, education, and understanding, plus mentoring, peer support, and personal growth.

Reflexology is a non-invasive therapy that applies pressure and massage to areas on your feet and hands to promote the body’s powerful self-healing capabilities and optimize physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. Reflexology of the feet is the most common, and according to reflexologists, you have reflex areas in your feet that match or correspond with every part of your body. Done either sitting up or lying down, depending on preference, most who get reflexology treatment comment on how it feels soothing and relaxing, and helps you unwind, de-stress, reduce anxiety, and recharge.

Explore the city of Red Deer one pathway at a time! The Run Red Deer Race Series consists of three events – April 21, June 30, and October 27 – open to all ages and abilities. Chip timing and low fees, a great way to stay motivated all year long. Register for one or get all three with a series package and save! Run Red Deer Race Series, Series.RunRedDeer.com

Ayurveda, an Eastern holistic healing system, advises having a daily routine is as essential to your body as a foundation is to a house, and your morning routine ABSOLUTELY sets the tone.
1. Set an intention. This keeps your actions purposeful and focused. 2. Drink warm lemon water. Toxins collect when we sleep; this helps eliminate them. 3. Move that body! This is the time your body is crying to be stretched and moved the most. Take five minutes to stretch your spine, chest, and legs. Now get out there and tackle the world like a boss!

Exciting NEW weekend program starting March 3! Day 1 – craft and interactive show and tell, Day 2 – guided outdoor activity. Games, walk n’ talks, critters, rock hounding, snowshoes, space science, and more! All ages welcome. Suggested $2/person/day. Drop-in program from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, some exceptions (e.g., Easter Sunday event). Call 403-346-2010, ext. 111 for more info.

Never underestimate the value of taking a deep breath, chewing each bite of food 20 times, going for a walk in nature, or getting 8 hours of good sleep. If you can be consistent 80% of the time with these simple little habits, then you can maintain your health. When “busyness,” skipping meals, or just wolfing the food down regularly occurs in your life, revisit these simple little habits, start anew and get back on track. Janet Casey, RN, Wellness Coach, Owner/Operator, Corner Mountain Inn & Wellness Centre, CornerMountainInn.ca

School-aged children can join an interpreter for a week of nature-based fun, both indoors and out! Monday, March 29 to Thursday, March 29, 2018, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Cost: $45/day/child or $160 for the week. Early drop off/late pick up available for an extra $5/day. Call 403-346-2010 or visit www.WaskasooPark.ca to register or for more info.

One of the best motivators for regular walking is to walk with others. Walking regularly has benefits, including healthy weight; chronic disease prevention; better strength, balance, and fitness; as well as better overall happiness. Walking in a group in your community allows you to familiarize yourself with community resources, make new friends, and build a safer community. Getting fresh air and enjoying nature are inspiring bonuses. Look for the numerous resources and supports that exist, such as the Red Deer Primary Care Network.

If you have crooked or gapped teeth, you may be tempted to try DIY orthodontics using videos on YouTube or at-home kits that are advertised on TV. These options are said to save people money by avoiding appointments with dental professionals. The truth is, DIY orthodontics are unsafe and could end up costing you more money later on. Complications can arise from placing DIY or mail-order dental appliances over decayed teeth or infected gums. Only a professional can determine the presence of these problems and ensure they are fixed correctly. Options like Invisalign 5 offer people with mildly crooked or gapped teeth a way to straighten them with clear aligners instead of braces, in as little as six to eight weeks, at a cost comparable to those mail-order products. Bower Dental Centre, Invisalign5atCost.com

Studies show that there are numerous benefits for connecting children with nature at an early age. It supports creativity and problem solving; enhances cognitive abilities; improves academic performance; reduces Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) symptoms; increases physical activity; improves nutrition, eyesight, social relations, self-discipline and reduces stress. Kerry Wood Nature Centre, WaskasooPark.ca/nature-nursery

When was the last time you did something for yourSELF? Self-care is the most selfLESS thing you can do. If you consistently put other things or people ahead of your needs, it can deplete you and your happiness. What you are actually giving is a burned-out version of you. Give 100% to yourself first, then you’ll have more to give to others. Try self-care on for size: go to bed earlier, play that guitar, go to that retreat. Do what FEELS good and others will see your light. Kendra Irvine, Certified Wellness Coach, Living Light, KendraIrvine.com