Are you depressed? By definition, it is not sad or low mood, but rather “depressed effect” or lack of effect. Not sad, not mad, not happy – just flat. In this state, it is difficult to care about anything. What is the antidote? The five pillars are: sleep, outside time daily, exercise weekly, social connection, and healthy diet. Make small moves like going for a walk every day, take vitamin D, go swimming, and reduce alcohol consumption. These can go a long way. If you can’t pull yourself out of your depression, counselling and medication can help too.
Community News
Have You Considered Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is part of an ancient Traditional Chinese medical system that aims to restore order and balance to the body. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), acupuncture can be used for a variety of issues such as digestive, emotional, menstrual, respiratory, fertility, neurological, musculoskeletal and addiction. In recent years, several clinical studies have proven that acupuncture is effective for people who do not want to take medication, have allergies/sensitivities to medications or have intolerable side effects to medication. The benefits of acupuncture include: enhanced mental clarity and energy, stress reduction, immune stimulation, pain control and improved circulation.
Slow Eating for Better Health
Did you know that chewing is the first step in the digestion process? Chewing your food properly and thoroughly helps create more surface area for your digestive enzymes to break down your food into useable parts for your body to function, re-build tissue, and fuel your body and your brain. If you suffer from bloating or heaviness, or feel sleepy after meals, an easy way to help your stomach feel better is to slow down while eating, by thoroughly chewing and avoiding distractions such as smartphones and TVs. Take time to enjoy your food and feel better by doing so!
Connecting with Seniors Safely
Practicing social distancing and self-isolation is an important way to help limit the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Older adults are at the greatest risk of severe illness from COVID-19, and family members should avoid exposing their loved ones to the virus. But social distancing can have a negative impact on your loved one’s mental health, so what are some ways to socialize with them safely? 1) Stay in touch with regular phone calls and/or texts. 2) Use video chat to have a virtual dinner party, movie night, or game night. 3) Arrange homecare services to support your loved one.
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.
Book Club: Hack Your Anxiety
How to Make Anxiety Work for You in Life, Love, and All That You Do. What if anxiety is not a monster to be tamed, but a resource to be tapped? In this revolutionary book, Dr. Alicia Clark recognizes anxiety as the unsung hero in the path to success and happiness. It can become the motivating force that will lead to a better you, and The Anxiety Advantage aims to restore anxiety to its rightful place as a positive resource. Reclaim your anxiety as a powerful energy source, and bring yourself peace, growth and success.
Words to Live By
Nothing is impossible, the word itself says “Im Possible”! – Audrey Hepburn
Words to Live By
“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.” – Henry Ford
Product Review:
LiveLife GPS Mobile Alarm. The LiveLife 4GX Mobile Alarm allows seniors to maintain their independence and remain active, while also keeping them safe. The stylish waterproof pendant uses the same cellular phone technology as a mobile phone, without any over-complicated features. Up to six emergency contacts can be stored in the device, which uses the best available 4GX/4G mobile network to notify all emergency contacts, with the push of a button, if a senior loved one is in need of help. A built-in GPS tracker allows for easy location, and the device also has a hands-free speaker-phone mode for both incoming and outgoing communication.
Tame the Squirrel Essential Oil Blend
It’s true: Natural oils are revered for their calming, relaxing properties, but diffusing essential oils can also come in handy when you need to stay alert and focused. Certain oils are actually able to stimulate the brain almost immediately, resulting in better focus—and sometimes a little mood boost, too. Our “Tame the Squirrel” essential oil blend includes a power combination of Frankincense, Cedarwood, Melissa, Lemon, Lavender, Sandalwood. Try it in a diffuser on you desk at work, or while your kids are doing homework.
Three Tips to Boost Focus
1. Practice Mindful Journaling: set aside time every day to write down how you are feeling right now, sensations you feel, and why you are feeling the way you are. Do this without judgement and be kind to yourself. 2. Practice Gratitude: every day tell a family member or colleague three things you are grateful for – your overall positivity will skyrocket after one month. 3. Try Uni-tasking. That is, focus only on one thing at a time. Want more tips? Check out our full Guide to Mindfulness at Work at wellnessworkscanada.ca.
