Want to know more about the benefits of infrared sauna? Here are six to consider: 1) Pain Relief – delivers oxygenated blood to muscles and soft tissue injuries, relaxes muscles. 2) Stress and Fatigue Reduction – can help reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic fatigue. 3) Increased Metabolism and Calorie Burning – increases blood flow, heart rate, and sweat production like a cardiovascular workout. 4) Boosted Immune System – stimulates white blood cell and antibody production. 5) Reduced Toxins – improves elimination of toxins to support the lymphatic system. 6) Improved Skin Appearance – increases circulation for improved tone, elasticity, texture, and overall appearance.
Community News
Validating Your Own Feelings
Being as compassionate to ourselves as we are to others will rewire a new way of responding to our world. In order to maintain choice in our life, it’s important to consider practicing self-compassion. This might sound like: 1) My feelings are normal and valid. 2) My reaction to my life may be different than others and that’s okay. 3) I can learn to voice my feelings. 4) I can learn to create and practice healthy boundaries. To learn more about practicing self-compassion, listen to the full podcast by Julie Long, Founder and Counsellor at Safe Harbour Therapy Centre: https://www.safeharbourtherapy.com/97-validating-your-feelings-with-julie-long/
Say Goodbye to Stubborn Body Fat
Many of us carry extra weight along our midsections. Did you know that kickboxing is one of the best exercises to burn fat? According to research, the cardio-conditioning involved in kickboxing is a highly effective way to burn stubborn belly fat. One study, published in the American Journal of Physiology found that aerobic exercise reduces belly fat better than resistance training because it burns 67 percent more calories, on average. Also, while kickboxing you are engaging every muscle group in your body, including working your back, and trimming your waistline, as a result of the core power required to execute the moves.
Do The Twist!
This spring, be sure to consider the mobility and strength required to do yard work and play sports like baseball or golf. The mid-back, or thoracic spine, is designed to twist, allowing for smooth motion while doing these activities. If your thoracic spine lacks the ability to twist, or has strength deficits, other areas may compensate for this, potentially resulting in injury to the low back, or lumbar spine. If you find these spring twisting activities are irritating your low back, consider addressing the strength and mobility of your thoracic spine. A strong and healthy thoracic spine can help take the load off of the already stressed lumbar spine.
Nutritional Needs for Seniors
As you age, your nutritional needs change, which is why it’s important to adjust your diet accordingly to improve the way you think and feel. Eating a diet that is high in fiber and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes promotes a healthy digestive tract, prevents constipation, and maintains a healthy body weight. Antioxidant-rich foods, such as berries, cabbage, beans, and spinach help to fight against free radicals and boost immune function. Foods that are rich in omega 3 fatty acids such as fish, walnuts and flaxseeds help improve cognitive function. Following a well-balanced diet every day is crucial in leading a long, happy, and healthy life.
Pat Porter Events
Thursday, May 26: Pancake Breakfast. Start your morning off with a stack of Pancakes from our Meals on Wheels kitchen. Stop by at the Centre anytime between 9:30 am and 12 pm for a delicious breakfast! $7 per person.
Tuesday, May 24: Painting Class. Join local artist Doug Enns for a painting workshop suitable for all skill levels. All supplies are provided with your registration fee. $20 for members and $25 for non-members. Please call 204-320-4600 to register.
Friday, May 27 from 7 pm -11 pm: Old Time Country Dance. Join us for an evening filled with dancing and fun! Featuring live music, this is an event you do not want to miss! Tickets are $12 for members or $15 for non-members and may be purchased ahead of time at the Pat Porter Active Living Centre or at the door. We hope to see you there!
Tuesday, May 31 from 6- 9pm: Dinner with Entertainment.
A night of fun awaits you! Enjoy a traditional home cooked meal while being entertained by the humorous “Cat’s Advice.” Please call ahead to book your tickets 204-320-4600. $15/person
Steinbach Accessible Transit
Are you a resident of Steinbach looking for transportation to and from an appointment or other event? Call Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm. To book a ride, call 204-326-4055. Appointments must be booked in advance to ensure availability. Visit www.patporteralc.com/transit/ for information on pricing.
Keep Your Home’s Air Healthy
One way to keep your home healthy is by installing an air conditioner. There are many health benefits to air conditioning that you may not know about, including reducing your home’s humidity. High humidity is linked to dust mites, mold, heatstroke, and dehydration. Air conditioning systems have greatly reduced levels of allergens and pollutants in the home. Take that seasonal allergies and asthma! More health benefits of a cooler home include: a better night’s sleep, a more comfortable work-from-home environment, and reduction of dehydration, heat stroke, and other heat-related illness.
Walk Your Way to Better Health
Happy Spring to everyone! Did you know that walking is one of the best ways to maintain your health and independence as you age? Walking helps you build muscle strength/endurance and can also reduce body fat. Other important benefits include improved balance, stronger bones, lower blood pressure, and a reduced risk of developing diabetes. It will even help you sleep better at night! Staying active is a crucial component of healthy aging and can preserve the one thing we all cherish – our independence! Victoria Lifeline can also support your active, independent lifestyle with the GoSafe mobile personal alert button.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common disease that develops when blood flows through your arteries at higher-than-normal pressures. Hypertension is the leading preventable cause of death and disability around the world, and can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and dementia. Over 7.2 million Canadians have hypertension, and 7.5 million more have high blood pressure that will lead to hypertension without preventative action. Your blood pressure is considered high when you have consistent systolic readings of 130 mm Hg or higher or diastolic readings of 80 mm Hg or higher. Schedule an appointment to see your family doctor if you’re concerned you have hypertension.
Overcoming Dentist Anxiety
Dental phobia has become ingrained into our society with phrases like ‘pulling teeth’ being used to mean difficult and unpleasant. As a result, an important part of the dentist’s role has become putting the patient at ease, making them secure and comfortable. Those with dental phobia tend to avoid dentists. Although understandable, delaying care or early diagnosis typically leads to issues that are more difficult to treat. If you are feeling nervous, establishing a good patient-dentist relationship is so important. If you are a person who suffers from dental anxiety, mention it to your dentist and they will work with you to find a way to alleviate the stress.
