Community News
Wellness Book Club

The Complete IBS Health and Diet Guide: Includes Nutrition Information, Meal Plans and Over 100 Recipes for Irritable Bowel Syndrome by Dr. Maitreyi Raman MD MSc FRCPC, Angela Sirounis BSc RD, Jennifer Shrubsole BSc RD. This comprehensive book provides all the current information on the disorder’s possible underlying causes as well as its symptoms, clinical features and effective treatments and therapies, including both complementary and non-drug therapies.

April is IBS Awareness Month

Did you know 13-20% of Canadians live with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)? This chronic gut disorder causes cramps, bloating, and bowel issues, leading to an average of 73 restricted activity days per year. IBS is the most burdensome chronic ailment reported by patients, often taking six years to diagnose. While there’s no cure, proper nutrition, like a low-FODMAP diet, can ease symptoms. Managing stress, staying active, and staying hydrated also help. Consulting a healthcare provider ensures the best approach for digestive health. Raising awareness is key to helping those with IBS live more comfortably and freely.

Find Calm, Support, Healing

Most of us are feeling extra stress with current concerns on the world stage as well as our regular lives. These stressors take quite a toll on our mental and emotional health, our relationships, and even our physical health. At Safe Harbour Therapy Centre we have a holistic healing space where our team offers many different wellness services in one place. Individual and relational therapy, sex & intimacy coaching, breathwork, reiki, reflexology, hypnotherapy, life coaching, dietetics, and more. Our goal is for you to feel soothed, nurtured and supported with stress-free wrap-around care. Prioritize your wellness. You are not alone

Keep Your Cat’s Mind Sharp

Cats kept indoors live much longer than cats that roam outside, but they also need more stimulation to keep their minds sharp. From kittenhood, you should provide your cat with things that keep them mentally fit, such as scratching posts, a variety of toys, and puzzles for play and mealtime. As cats age, continue to spend time playing with them, and keep them occupied with access to a window and vertical spaces for them to climb. You can also work on training your cat throughout their lifetime when it comes to things like walking on a leash, for example.

Avoid Injury This Spring

Spring means two things: yard work and stiff, sore muscles. Stretching to prepare muscles for strenuous activities that have not been done since fall is very important. Simple things like doing arm circles, shrugging your shoulders, and touching your toes should be done before and after activity. If you do over-exert and your neck, shoulder, arm, or back pain is not going away within a week, there are natural alternatives that can help. Options such as designed nutritional formulations and NIR Therapy will reduce inflammation and stimulate muscle repair to help you recover quickly and get back to enjoying spring.

Deep Breathing for IBS

Even just 5-10 minutes of deep breathing per day can help you cope with stress. Taking a moment to focus on your breathing can help keep your mind from wandering to external stressful events or internal emotions. There are hundreds of breath practices that can positively impact the vagus nerve and its function. Belly breathing, alternate nostril breathing and breath watching practices are three popular breathing practices that can be readily learned through a beginner class for yoga, or even online through meditation and breathing applications. The LyfeMD application (www.lyfemd.com) is one such application that is available to use at no cost if you have IBS and live in Canada. Concentrating on your breathing and listening to your body helps you focus on doing something positive for your well-being.

Loved Ones This Easter

Easter is a time of renewal, hope, and reflection. As we gather with loved ones, it’s also an opportunity to remember those who have passed. Their memory lives on in the traditions we uphold, the love we share, and the quiet moments of remembrance. Whether lighting a candle, sharing stories, or simply holding space for grief, Easter invites us to connect with the souls we miss. At Branch & Pyre, we honor these cherished loved ones, celebrating the bond that time cannot erase. May their memory bring comfort and peace this Easter season. Lee Barringer | Branch & Pyre Cremation Care |BranchAndPyre.com

Natural Health Spotlight

Sage Creek Massage Therapy Clinic is dedicated to your wellness, offering expert care in Therapeutic and Orthopedic Massage, Cupping Therapy, and IASTM Therapy. We specialize in treating health conditions and injuries with personalized massage services, including deep tissue, relaxation, sports, and pre/post-natal massage. Whether recovering from an injury or managing chronic issues, we provide tailored treatments to support your well-being. Our in-office wellness protocols ensure lasting health benefits, helping you feel your best. We are your partner in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Easter Blooms Brighten the Season

As Easter approaches, flowers play a meaningful role in celebrations, symbolizing renewal and joy. Traditional favorites like Easter Lilies and Tulips bring vibrant color and fragrance to homes, while fresh spring arrangements make thoughtful gifts. Many florists highlight seasonal blooms in April, offering a variety of options for decorating or sharing with loved ones. Choosing locally sourced flowers ensures freshness and supports Canadian growers. Whether as a centerpiece or a simple gesture of kindness, flowers add a special touch to Easter traditions, reminding us of nature’s renewal and the beauty of the season.

Loved Ones This Easter

Easter is a time of renewal, hope, and reflection. As we gather with loved ones, it’s also an opportunity to remember those who have passed. Their memory lives on in the traditions we uphold, the love we share, and the quiet moments of remembrance. Whether lighting a candle, sharing stories, or simply holding space for grief, Easter invites us to connect with the souls we miss. At Branch & Pyre, we honor these cherished loved ones, celebrating the bond that time cannot erase. May their memory bring comfort and peace this Easter season. Lee Barringer | Branch & Pyre Cremation Care |BranchAndPyre.com

Find Calm, Support, Healing

Most of us are feeling extra stress with current concerns on the world stage as well as our regular lives. These stressors take quite a toll on our mental and emotional health, our relationships, and even our physical health. At Safe Harbour Therapy Centre we have a holistic healing space where our team offers many different wellness services in one place. Individual and relational therapy, sex & intimacy coaching, breathwork, reiki, reflexology, hypnotherapy, life coaching, dietetics, and more. Our goal is for you to feel soothed, nurtured and supported with stress-free wrap-around care. Prioritize your wellness. You are not alone