The start of a new year invites reflection, renewal and a fresh sense of possibility. Reiki can support this shift by helping you feel grounded and clear as you set new intentions. This gentle practice encourages relaxation and allows the body to release tension and emotional strain. Many people feel lighter and more centered after a session, which can make personal growth feel more accessible. Reiki also fosters mindfulness, helping you tune into what you truly need as you move forward. Whether received from a practitioner or used as self care, Reiki offers a simple way to step into the year with calm and clarity.
Community News
Importance of Testing for Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, often unnoticed by the individual. Being tested is crucial because untreated sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and daytime fatigue that increases the risk of accidents. Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention, such as CPAP therapy, lifestyle changes, or oral appliances, which can significantly improve sleep quality, overall health, and daily functioning. Testing also helps identify the severity and type of apnea, guiding personalized treatment. Proactive evaluation safeguards long-term health and enhances quality of life.
A Foundation for Care Campaign
All proceeds raised from this campaign will go toward the building and equipment needs of the new Critical Care Centre at the Brandon Regional Health Centre. This Centre will include 16 ICU Suites and 30 higher acuity medical beds. Proceeds raised from our 50/50 raffle will also go towards this exciting campaign; with 50% of the pot going to one lucky winner on Friday, January 9, 2026. To donate or purchase your ticket you can go to our website at www.brhcfoundation.ca or by calling 204-578-4227 Jo-Anne Lewis, Executive Director, BRHC Foundation
Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
January is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba wants everyone experiencing dementia to know that the Society is your path forward to community and connection.
Through the Society’s programs and education opportunities, they open the door to a community of people who truly understand. Whether through Minds in Motion, support groups, or simply meeting others on a similar path, the Alzheimer Society helps you build meaningful connections and feel supported every step of the way.
Throughout the month, the Society is sharing stories from Manitobans navigating dementia to increase understanding of the disease and highlight the impact of community support systems.
The Power of Zinc
Zinc plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system, helping the body fight off colds and the flu. It can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms by preventing the virus from multiplying in the nasal passages and throat. Zinc also helps activate T-lymphocytes, which are essential for immune responses. Studies show that taking zinc supplements within 24 hours of the onset of cold symptoms can lead to quicker recovery. It may also reduce the risk of getting sick in the first place by boosting the body’s defense mechanisms and maintaining the integrity of the respiratory system.
December Book Club
Lighter: Let Go of the Past, Connect With the Present, and Expand the Future. #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER: An empathetic and wise book that will guide you on a journey toward a deeper understanding of self. In Lighter, Yung Pueblo demonstrates how we can all move forward in our healing, from learning self-compassion to letting go to becoming emotionally mature.
Mindful Moments This Holiday
The holidays can be joyful, but they often bring stress, especially around family gatherings. Expectations, busy schedules, and emotional triggers can leave us feeling drained instead of delighted. Practicing mindfulness helps us stay grounded in the present moment. Take a few deep breaths before responding, listen with compassion, and release the need for perfection. Remember, it’s not about creating a flawless holiday, but about being fully present with those you love. Give yourself permission to slow down, find gratitude in small moments, and approach each interaction with kindness…for others and for yourself. That’s the true spirit of the season.
The Power of saying NO!
The ability to say NO is an integral part of our wellness and self-care. Many of us have learned that saying no is “wrong” and worry it leads to criticism and people not liking us. When we feel compelled to say yes, even when it’s not in our best or highest interest out of duty, approval, niceness or fear of rejection, we dis-honor and rob ourselves of being fully authentic and begin building up resentments. When we dare to speak our truth and say NO we choose YES sincerely from an open heart and enthusiasm. People learn to trust exactly where they stand with you… both in your no’s and yes’s.
You’re Not Alone This Holiday Season
While many of us look forward to spending quality time with family and friends during the holidays, it can also be an overwhelming time – especially for people living with dementia and their care partners.
This holiday season, the Alzheimer Society wants to remind you that you are not alone. If you need guidance, reassurance or a listening ear, the Society is here for you and can help you navigate any challenges you’re facing.
Connect anytime by emailing [email protected] or calling 204-943-6622 or 1-800-378-6699. For more helpful information, visit alzheimer.mb.ca.
Giving Accessibility This Christmas
This Christmas, consider giving the gift of safety, comfort, and independence with an accessible bathtub or shower conversion. Total Tub, a Manitoba-based company, specializes in high-quality Canadian-made bathroom accessibility solutions, including Quick Tub® shower conversions, grab bars, railings, and wall-mounted benches. These upgrades promote independent living and help reduce the risk of slips and falls as 80% of which occur in the bathroom. As licensed installers and authorized dealers, Total Tub provides OBC/AODA-compliant products for both homes and businesses. Locally owned and operated, they’re small enough to listen, big enough to deliver – making accessibility the perfect gift that truly lasts.
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.
