How do we improve the physical, social, and emotional health of our community’s kids? By giving them better access to recreation. Research shows that when kids engage in activities that foster healthy play, they are more likely to build a lifetime habit of fitness. Extra-curricular activities also give non-academically focused kids a chance to shine. We believe that all kids should have the chance to play. That’s why the SOS Recreation Assistance for Children & Youth program (RACY) is so important to low-income families. To learn more about RACY, visit our website or come by our Community Services Centre in Parksville.
Community News
Spring Clean the Medicine Cabinet
Here are a few tips to clean up your Medicine Cabinet and other places where medication and vitamins are stored: *Gather all medications in one place. *Check the expiry date of each item. *Set aside any medications that you no longer take or has expired. *Set aside any medication that is not in its original container or whose appearance, consistency or odour has changed. Take all discarded medications and vitamins to your pharmacist for safe and ecological disposal. Do not throw them into the waste basket, sink or toilet. The Medicine Shoppe can help with the cleanup process and disposal.
Are You Dehydrated?
Feel tired all the time? Have no energy? Dehydration may be the cause. Our bodies are over 55% water, so even a small deficit can result in health issues. To ensure that you stay hydrated, it is important to drink at least two litres of water a day. Health benefits of water include: *more energy, *potential weight loss, *flush out toxins and *helps the body regulate temperature. Start your day with a glass of water and drink a glass every couple of hours; more often if you are outside or exercising. Raw fruits and vegetables are a great way to increase water consumption.
Are You Getting the Right Vitamins & Minerals?
Aging gracefully can come with its challenges. One of the most important things you can do for your health is to ensure you’re getting the right vitamins and minerals. We all know about calcium, so here are some supplement suggestions that are equally important but less common. Always check with your healthcare provider before introducing new supplements into your diet. *Folic Acid – Helps with memory loss and depression. *Vitamin D – Works with calcium to help prevent osteoporosis. * Vitamin B12 – For red blood cell production and nerve health, and is especially important for strict vegetarians. Stay strong, and stay healthy for life!
Fresh Air & Exercise for Well-being
One of the best things about living on Vancouver Island is having nature right in our backyard. Springtime is a great time to take advantage of everything our island has to offer. Whether it is just a walk around the block or a hike up a mountain, the fresh air and exercise boost our well-being. So lace up your shoes and wear VoxxLife socks with HPT for enhanced balance and stability. Additional benefits include; enhanced pain relief and management, especially PDN pain and improved mobility.
Setting Healthy Boundaries at Work
Occupational burnout has been defined as a recognizable syndrome by the World Health Organization. Burnout results in physical and mental fatigue, poor productivity and overall health. Employers and employees need to set healthy boundaries to create healthy, high performing workplaces. Here are some great ways to prevent burnout: • Nourish a safe culture making it ok to admit if the workload is too high • Compromise and negotiate workload • Delegate • Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize • Create a ‘not-to-do’ list • Take breaks • Practice mindfulness • Practice saying no • Offer flexibility or telecommuting options Find more workplace wellness tips at WellnessWorksCanada.ca.
Smell the Flowers
April showers bring May flowers, at least that is how the saying goes. As we enter into May, it is important to remember to stop and smell the roses, or any other flower or scent you like to smell! Often we get so caught up in the “doings” of life, we forget to remember to be. So take a moment every day to just stop, take a deep breath, look around and work to appreciate just being you at the moment.
Profile: Heart to Home Meals
Heart to Home Meals delivers delicious, nutritious meals right to your door. The company’s team of experts has developed a wide-ranging menu to suit many tastes, dietary needs, and lifestyles, including high-protein, low carbohydrates and/or saturated fat, low sodium, high fibre, vegetarian, and no added sugar options. Heart to Home Meals has a useful diet coding system to help you choose meals that are right for you. Meals also come in mini versions (for smaller appetites), hearty versions (for larger appetites), as well as minced or pureed options. It’s as easy as ordering online or by phone!
It is Time to Garden
Spring is in the air so it’s the perfect time to get outside and start gardening! Gardening a great way to stay active and get some fresh air; it can also do wonders for the soul. There’s nothing quite like watching your plants grow and thrive and seeing the fruits (or vegetables) of your labour. If you’re new to gardening, don’t worry – there are plenty of resources and helpful tips available from fellow gardeners in your community. So grab your gloves and trowel, and let’s get planting! Your mind and body will thank you.
Managing PTSD Through Floatation Therapy
Floatation therapy, also known as sensory deprivation therapy, has been shown to be a promising treatment option for individuals with PTSD. The therapy involves floating in a tank of water filled with Epsom salt, which allows the body to float effortlessly. The experience is designed to be completely isolated and sensory-deprived, which can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety. It can help decrease hyperarousal and intrusive thoughts, two common symptoms of PTSD. The therapy can improve sleep quality and reduce overall stress levels. Floatation therapy is a promising option for those who are seeking non-invasive and drug-free treatment options to manage their symptoms.
Benefits of Mobility Scooters
If you or your loved one are considering getting a mobility scooter, it’s good to know there are many benefits to using one: 1) Lower risk of injuries – using a mobility scooter can reduce the risk of tripping, falling, or aggravating painful conditions. 2) Increased independence – mobility scooters provide a safe and reliable mode of transportation that allows users to get around on their own. 3) More socializing – being able to get around on your mobility scooter means more visits with friends and family. 4) Increased comfort – mobility scooters offer more comfort than devices like walkers, canes, or crutches.
