Christmas is a time of joy and indulgence, but it can also be an opportunity to focus on health and well-being. Start by choosing nutritious versions of festive favorites—add more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to meals while reducing sugar and salt. Stay active by taking winter walks or dancing to holiday music. Manage stress by planning ahead and setting realistic expectations. Remember to get enough sleep and drink plenty of water, even amid celebrations. Most importantly, enjoy treats in moderation. A balanced approach allows you to savor the season while keeping your body and mind healthy.
Community News
What Causes Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat relax too much to allow normal breathing. When the muscles relax, your airway narrows as you inhale, and breathing may be inadequate for 10 seconds or longer. Your brain senses this impaired breathing and briefly rouses you from sleep so that you can reopen your airway. You may make a snorting, choking or gasping sound. You are more at risk for developing sleep apnea if you are overweight, an adult male, use drugs or alcohol, are a smoker, have a family history of sleep apnea, or if you have a certain medical condition such as Type 2 Diabetes.
NEW Local Business Spotlight
UROSPOT Brings Its Pelvic Floor Revolution to Winnipeg. UROSPOT is a Canadian-owned pelvic health clinic helping women and men overcome bladder leaks, urgency, frequency, night waking, prolapse and sexual dysfunction – without surgery, pain, or downtime. Clients remain fully clothed while sitting on a specialized chair that uses Health Canada and FDA-approved technology to strengthen the pelvic floor – delivering a year’s worth of Kegels in a single, 30-minute session. No doctor referral is required. Join thousands of Canadians who have regained their freedom at UROSPOT. Visit UROSPOT.com or call (204) 318-8866 to book your complimentary consultation.
Clean Eating Recipe
Cranberry-Cashew Energy Cups. 1⅔ c rolled oats; ¾ c unsalted cashew butter; ½ c unsweetened almond milk; ½ c 50% dried cranberries, chopped. 2 tbsp chia seeds; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp salt; ½ c dark chocolate chips; 1 tbsp coconut oil. Combine ingredients (leave chocolate & coconut oil aside). Divide mixture among prepared muffin cups (about 1½ tablespoons each); firmly press the mixture into the cup bottoms. Melt chocolate & coconut oil together until smooth and spoon mixture over the oat mixture in each cup. Refrigerate, uncovered, until chilled.
Avoid the Winter Blues
The Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines suggest adults should perform at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week, as well as two sessions of muscle and bone strengthening activities, to achieve physical AND mental health benefits. With winter coming, and the challenges of leaving home, this can seem daunting! Your physiotherapist can tailor an exercise program designed specifically for you to do inside with minimal space (to help avoid the cold weather!), and with equipment everyone has around their home. At 30 minutes per day, the benefits of exercise are countless, while the side effects are minimal.
Honouring Loved Ones at Christmas
Christmas can be bittersweet when remembering loved ones who have passed. It’s a time to cherish their memory while embracing the joy of the season. Light a candle or hang a special ornament in their honor. Share stories, photos, or favorite traditions that keep their spirit alive. You might prepare their favorite dish or play a song they loved. Creating a small memorial space or donating to a cause they cared about can bring comfort and meaning. Remembering them allows love to live on, reminding us that those we’ve lost remain part of our hearts and holiday celebrations forever.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Q: What’s a parent’s favourite Christmas carol? A: Silent night!
Words to Live By
“The most precious gift we can offer anyone is our attention.” – Thich Nhat Hanh
Words to Live By
“Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful and joyful holiday season. Invest time for everyday wellness and create great choices for self-care and healthy living throughout the New Year. Thank you for supporting Local” – Happy Holidays from the Wellnessnews Team
Words to Live By
“This is a time of peace and great joy. Among the rush of worldly coming and going, choose to remain calm and peaceful in your heart.” – Keith Macpherson
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Why is a hospital gown like health insurance? You’re never covered as much as you think you are.
