If you get migraine headaches often, you may wonder if there’s anything you can do to prevent them. Botox was approved in 2010 for adults who get chronic migraines. Botox works by blocking chemicals called neurotransmitters that carry pain signals from your brain. Botox is like a roadblock in that pathway. It stops the chemicals before they get to the nerve endings around your head and neck. Studies have shown that Botox cut down the total number of days migraine sufferers have headaches. They also have more “crystal-clear” – pain-free – days each month, and they report fewer days off work.
Community News
Music and Dementia
The effects of dementia are devastating to individuals and their families. Researchers are keen to find ways to ease its symptoms and restore abilities and memory. Studies on music and dementia have shown promising findings. Did you know that the area of the brain associated with musical memory tends to be least affected by dementia? Music therapy may help reduce cognitive decline while improving the memory of people with dementia. In one study, test subjects performed better on memory tests when they listened to music. It has also been found that the emotional content of music can bring back emotional memories.
Meet Your Practitioner
Dr. Gina Neonakis, ND is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor, practicing at Dawn Health and Wellness clinic in White Rock. She has a focus in women’s health and fertility and supports women of all ages with conditions such as PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), endometriosis, hormonal imbalances and menopause. Dr. Neonakis’ goal is to empower her patients to take control of their health by educating and supporting them along their unique journey. She aims to treat the underlying cause of conditions, rather than suppressing them. To book an appointment with Dr. Neonakis, call 604-385-3286 or visit GinaNeonakis.com to book online.
Snake Plant for Health
This succulent is one of the most popular indoor plants for beginners and experts alike. Not only does this plant look great, but it is also low-maintenance, needing very little water to thrive. The most striking characteristic is the long and narrow leaves which sometimes present with white line(s) running lengthwise. It also has shown to have an affinity to filtering chemicals out of the air. A NASA study from 1989 showed just how effective the snake plant can be at reducing toxins and pollution from the atmosphere. Keep on in your bedroom or living room to help purify the air and improve your rest.
Words To Live By
“Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds.” – Orison Swett Marden
Book Club:
The Lily Nurse: Rebooted/Re-birthed and Finding a New Path by Julia Evans. Have you ever wondered what a near-death experience is like? Julia Evans can tell you. See the experience through her eyes as it loops, turns and links back together. Read how she steps out of the shadows she was placed into and learn how truly empowering it is for one’s self to finally be heard. For finding your voice has its own power in healing. Julia has lifted herself back to the light, helping people to believe in miracles, using her voice so others can find theirs. Julia Evans RN, BScN, CBP.
Supporting Mental Health
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a noticeable impact on the mental health of Canadians, and the federal government has taken some good initial steps towards addressing this with an economic recovery plan and the free Wellness Together Canada portal. However, about 1.6 million Canadians were living with unmet mental health needs before the COVID-19 pandemic. The Canadian Mental Health Association is working to expand and adapt its virtual services and supports countrywide, and is also calling on the federal government to take further action to support Canadians’ mental health needs. For more information, please visit:
Dementia-Friendly Technology
Dementia affects parts of the brain responsible for language, learning, and memory. Those living with dementia can find it scary and overwhelming, but there are some devices that can help make them feel safe and secure. An easy-to-read clock placed in clear view can help with daily routines and reduce anxiety. A wearable GPS tracker device can help locate someone with dementia in cases of emergency. Automated pill dispensers open automatically with an alert sound when it’s time to take medication. Finally, a wearable monitoring device can detect falls and alert medical responders to ensure those with dementia are safe.
Clean Eating: Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups milk or milk substitute, 1 1/2 cups water, 2 1/2 cups quick oats, 1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree, 1/2 cup chopped pecans, 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup, 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp vanilla, 1/2 tsp salt. Direction: Bring the milk and water to a boil in a saucepan that’s large enough to prevent boil-overs. Reduce the heat to low. Add the oats and then stir in all other ingredients. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until oats are done and oatmeal is thickened to your liking. Enjoy!
Local Health and Wellness Resource
The internet is full of information. Did you know that there are two billion websites online? No wonder it can be difficult to find what you are looking for. We can help. The Wellness Hub powered by WellnessNews Choices for Healthy Living® is the go-to source for local health and wellness information on Central Vancouver Island. Find local business and health care practitioners, read health tips and find out what is happening in the community. Check us out online at www.CentralislandWellnessHub.ca.
Why Wear Compression Socks?
How much do you move during the day? If you spend a lot of time sitting, your calf muscles that usually help pump blood through your veins do very little. This can cause swelling and blood to pool in the lower legs. Standing all day can have the same effect. Walking is a great exercise to help the calf muscles do their job. Socks with compression squeeze your legs to move blood up your leg whether you are sitting or standing. Voxx Knee Highs offer gentle compression, are comfortable to wear and have HPT to help with pain, balance and stability.
