Sleep deprivation can play a role in the body’s inflammatory process, potentially increasing inflammatory molecules like cytokines, interleukin-6, and C-reactive protein (an inflammation marker that’s often elevated in people at risk for heart disease and diabetes). Chronic inflammation can lead to the development of diabetes, stroke, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer. Studies have shown that acupuncture may help to improve insomnia symptoms, total sleep time, and sleep efficiency, as well as symptoms of conditions that can affect sleep, such as restless leg syndrome, sleep apnea, pain, anxiety, and depression. Improving sleep may help to decrease inflammation in the body.

Dopamine, our motivation chemical, is highest in the morning. That’s why it can be helpful to tackle the “hardest” things first and set up a dopamine wave early in the morning. Have a morning routine consisting of discipline-building behaviours – a cold shower is perfect, as it is uncomfortable. Once you overcome an obstacle this big, the other “hard” tasks seem easy in comparison. Other examples are a morning workout or meditation session. This can help you face everything your day throws at you, big or small. Life is won with a series of decisions that build on each other!

These differences – 25% less body water than men, and less enzymes in their stomach and liver to break down alcohol in their system, means that alcohol goes through a woman’s system undiluted, and in higher concentrations. Research has shown given a man and a woman, both the same weight and physical condition, and given 3 standard drinks of alcohol in an hour – women consistently show a higher BAC level than the man. Women are often the designated drivers and if she consumes 2 or more standard drinks, she could show an elevated blood alcohol level of .08 and above.

The legal consequence for driving while impaired, or registering .08 or over on a breath or blood test is as follows: 1st Offence – 1 year suspension, 2nd offence – 5 yr. suspension, 3rd Offence- 10 yr. suspension and a lifetime suspension for 4 or more charges for impaired driving within a 10 yr. period. You will also receive 10 demerit points on your license from the Motor Vehicle Branch. If you refuse a breathalyser the penalties are more severe. 1st Offense – 2 yr. suspension, 2nd Offence – 7 yr. suspension, and 3rd Offence – 10 yr. suspension and forfeiture of your vehicle.