Many women avoid gym programs for their exercise routines because they are self-conscious. It’s normal to feel this way, especially at the start of a weight loss program. So first, give yourself a break. Then, give yourself a kick. The hardest part is showing up, so think about what might help you do that. Here are some tips: Mid-morning and mid-afternoon are likely to be less crowded than lunchtime or before or after work. Bring a friend! It’s easier to try something new when you have support. Also find comfort in knowing that many of the women you see in the gym are embarking on the same journey as you.
Friendly Visiting
Our Friendly Visiting program offers an hour each week of in-home visiting and support to seniors who are feeling isolated and lonely. One hour a week, although modest, can make a world of difference to an isolated senior. Having someone to talk to, having someone who will listen well, someone who might play a game of cribbage, read to you, walk with you, put together a puzzle, and in general pay you some good attention is just what can be needed to brighten your day.
What Does “Self-Care” Mean to You?
We always think of self-care must incur huge costs or involve activity beyond the reach of most people, but we truly can incorporate self-care into our daily lives for free, or very, very cheap. Once self-care becomes habit, it becomes ingrained as one of those things that we simply expect of ourselves. It DOES NOT change overnight, or even in a month. In day-to-day life, consider consistent time by yourself to do something you enjoy: reading, watching a favourite show, cooking a special treat. These short periods of time add up! A bit of time enjoying something just for yourself will have a positive impact over time. Treat yourself occasionally. It can be as simple as a cup of coffee once a week, a walk in a beautiful park or a drive out of your neighbourhood. Disconnect your cable, limit time on social media. Sit in your yard or in a park and visit with your friends. Begin a journal. Simplify your meals and drink more water. The idea is to not overwhelm yourself with excessive movement or big changes, just get your body moving even a little bit, one small change at a time. Something is better than nothing!
There’s No Place Like Home
Many seniors, whether they need short term or long-term care, prefer remaining in a place most familiar to them – their home. By removing elderly loved ones from their home we often take away years of memories, relationships with neighbors and communities which can lead to a decline in health and leave them feeling sad and isolated. If Mom or Dad is willing to explore the idea of home care, involve them in the process and remember to take it slow at first. Home is still the safest place to receive care!
Ask The Expert
Q: I don’t like wearing sunglasses when I’m gardening. Is it really necessary? Sunglasses are too dark for me. A: You would probably do well just wearing some clear, non-tinted safety glasses. You can get these at any hardware store, and most of them have UV protection which will protect your eyes, even in bright sunlight. Eye injuries are common with gardeners, and the safety glasses will be beneficial in that regard too.
Don’t Ignore Chipped Teeth
A chipped tooth can happen for a variety of reasons, including biting something hard, hitting your mouth, having tooth decay, or grinding your teeth. While you might think having a chipped tooth is no big deal, this can lead to some problems. Sharp edges can cut your inner mouth, while deep chips can impact tooth roots (possibly leading to infections or toothaches), as well as tooth decay (which can cause sensitivity and bad breath). To avoid needing a root canal or extraction, it’s important to have a dentist examine and fix a chipped tooth before the problem gets any worse.
Keeping You Accountable
What happens after your first Vega Testing appointment? Setting goals for yourself, by yourself can be hard. Never mind achieving them. Sometimes you need to feel accountable, and I offer additional support after your first appointment to do just that. May it be in the office, in the grocery store or the comfort of your home, I can help you set your health goals and be accountable for them. I will support you with recipe sharing, cooking tips, and further recommendations as well as answering any questions you may have along the way!
What is Stability to You?
Stability can unintentionally show up as bracing or rigidity when we consciously try to create it – But then suppleness and a full breath can get lost. I really love how my mentor describes stability as having control and coordination through the arc of a movement. Consider this; when you slow something way down, do you notice any wavering, awkwardness, or engagement of unnecessary body parts? If so, imagine that magnified when you complete that movement quickly and without as much focus. Feeling stable is amplified when we move efficiently on a foundation of ease. Let’s explore this together! Small group classes and 1:1 options are available.
3 Ways to Improve Digestion Naturally
With any diet advice, it is vital to build a reflective awareness of the messages of your body and intuitively choose the best routine for your situation. Here are 3 natural ways you can integrate healthy habits to improve your diet instantly. Chew! Chewing breaks down food to enhance the extraction of nutrients that your body needs. Incorporate set meal times throughout the day. Three meals are often the average for most individuals. Adhere to this natural rhythm until your body signals it’s time for a change. Go for a walk! The movement of walking often aids with digestion.
Words to Live By
It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting. – Paulo Coelho
Words to Live By
“You should sit in meditation for 20 minutes every day – unless you’re too busy; then you should sit and meditate for an hour.” Zen Proverb


