December is National Influenza Awareness Month in Canada, a time to focus on preventing the flu and protecting public health. Influenza can lead to serious complications, especially for seniors, young children, and those with chronic conditions. The best defense is vaccination, which reduces the risk of infection and severe illness. Good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick, also help limit the spread of flu. Staying informed about flu seasons, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep support the immune system. Awareness and proactive measures can keep communities healthier during the winter months.
Community News
Companionship for the Holidays
The holiday season can be joyful but also challenging for seniors who may feel isolated or miss loved ones. Staying connected is key to emotional well-being. Simple activities like phone or video calls, writing cards, or inviting a friend for tea can make a world of difference. Joining community events or volunteer groups can also lift spirits and create new memories. Companionship brings comfort, laughter, and belonging — especially during the holidays. Did you know our team can help with errands or holiday shopping to make the season brighter? Visit www.hsewinnipeg.com for more heartwarming wellness tips.
Dentures and TMJ Disorders
TMJ Disorders, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorders, can sometimes be caused by too much space between your upper and lower teeth. When your dentures no longer fit properly because of ridge resorption and worn down tooth anatomy, this can lead to a decreased vertical dimension, which in turn can cause TMJ pain. Symptoms like headaches, popping in the jaw, pain in the jaw, neck pain, dizziness, pain in the ears, ringing in your ears, or even hearing loss could occur. If you experience any of these symptoms, talk with your denturist to see how they can help with this issue. Make sure to get your dentures checked regularly to prevent further problems.
NEW Local Business Spotlight
UROSPOT Brings Its Pelvic Floor Revolution to Winnipeg. UROSPOT is a Canadian-owned pelvic health clinic helping women and men overcome bladder leaks, urgency, frequency, night waking, prolapse and sexual dysfunction – without surgery, pain, or downtime. Clients remain fully clothed while sitting on a specialized chair that uses Health Canada and FDA-approved technology to strengthen the pelvic floor – delivering a year’s worth of Kegels in a single, 30-minute session. No doctor referral is required. Join thousands of Canadians who have regained their freedom at UROSPOT. Visit UROSPOT.com or call (204) 318-8866 to book your complimentary consultation.
Quit Smoking This Winter
Winter is the perfect time to embrace a fresh start and quit smoking for good. Laser therapy offers a natural, non-invasive method to reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Using low-level laser light on specific energy points, it helps stimulate endorphin production, promoting relaxation and easing the transition to a smoke-free life. Many people experience reduced cravings after just one session. Combined with motivation and support, laser therapy can make quitting easier and more comfortable. This winter, choose better breathing, improved health, and a renewed sense of well-being by committing to quit smoking with the help of laser therapy.
Confident Smiles This Holiday
Holiday gatherings are full of laughter, delicious food, and memorable conversations. For denture wearers, enjoying these moments comfortably is important. Well-fitting dentures allow you to eat seasonal favorites and smile confidently in photos without worry. Regular care, cleaning daily and visiting your denturist for check-ups, helps prevent discomfort or slipping during meals. With the right fit and care, dentures won’t hold you back from the holiday fun. Enjoy every bite, toast, and smile with confidence this season.
Flowers to Help with the Holidays
Flowers are scientifically proven to have a positive impact on your mental health, relieving the stress and anxiety of the holidays. Some festive flowers include: Poinsettias – They are the classic Christmas flower. The bright red colors on the dark green leaves make it the perfect holiday mascot! They attract happiness and promote positive feelings. Orchids –Unlike the poinsettia, orchids don’t have a long association with Christmas. Instead, they are a unique and special flower that signals warmth and joy. Christmas Cactus – This plant hits the market just in time for the holidays. They increase humidity in the air and creates a cheerful aura in your home.
Clean Eating Recipe
Cranberry-Cashew Energy Cups. 1⅔ c rolled oats; ¾ c unsalted cashew butter; ½ c unsweetened almond milk; ½ c 50% dried cranberries, chopped. 2 tbsp chia seeds; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp salt; ½ c dark chocolate chips; 1 tbsp coconut oil. Combine ingredients (leave chocolate & coconut oil aside). Divide mixture among prepared muffin cups (about 1½ tablespoons each); firmly press the mixture into the cup bottoms. Melt chocolate & coconut oil together until smooth and spoon mixture over the oat mixture in each cup. Refrigerate, uncovered, until chilled.
Winter UV Eye Protection
Many people associate UV protection with summer, but winter sun can be just as harmful to your eyes. Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, doubling exposure and increasing the risk of photokeratitis—essentially a sunburn on the eye. Long-term UV damage can also contribute to cataracts and macular degeneration. Protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses or goggles with 100% UVA and UVB protection, even on cloudy days. Wraparound styles offer extra coverage from reflected light. Pairing proper eyewear with a wide-brimmed hat or helmet visor helps shield your eyes and keep your vision healthy year-round.
Clean Eating Recipe
Cranberry-Cashew Energy Cups. 1⅔ c rolled oats; ¾ c unsalted cashew butter; ½ c unsweetened almond milk; ½ c 50% dried cranberries, chopped. 2 tbsp chia seeds; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp salt; ½ c dark chocolate chips; 1 tbsp coconut oil. Combine ingredients (leave chocolate & coconut oil aside). Divide mixture among prepared muffin cups (about 1½ tablespoons each); firmly press the mixture into the cup bottoms. Melt chocolate & coconut oil together until smooth and spoon mixture over the oat mixture in each cup. Refrigerate, uncovered, until chilled.
Where Joy Blooms
This December, let joy take root and bloom with the magic of Christmas. At Roy’s Florist, we believe every bouquet is more than a gift – it’s a gesture of warmth, care, and celebration. Whether it brightens a cozy home, adds charm to a festive table, or brings comfort to someone recovering in a hospital room, each arrangement carries a wish for happiness. This Christmas, celebrate the season with the beauty of flowers, and let nature’s simple grace remind us that joy, like blooms, grows when shared. Roy’s Florist wishes you a wonderful and happy holiday season.
