The process of laughing increases your respiratory rate. The increased oxygen consumption causes you to enter a state of relaxation for a period of time.
Community News
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.
Emotional Regulation in Children
Helping children understand and manage their emotions is one of the strongest protective factors for lifelong wellbeing. When kids learn healthy regulation skills, they build resilience, strengthen relationships, and improve their overall mental health. Parents play a vital role—practicing strategies at home, noticing early signs of distress, and creating consistent routines. Mindfulness, yoga, sensory activities, music, and positive self-talk can all support emotional awareness and calm. Because every child’s needs are unique, setbacks are normal, and progress varies. When challenges arise, therapy can offer individualized tools to support both children and their caregivers in building confidence and emotional balance.
Epigenetic Hair Follicle Analysis
Are you affected by a general feeling of being unwell? Do you suffer from low energy, aches and pains, poor concentration, or EMF toxicity, to name a few? Factors such as inadequate nutritional intake, toxins, chemicals, processed foods, and EMF’s can control gene expression and may affect tissue healing, functioning, and repair. The Cell-Wellbeing Epigenetic Hair Follicle Analysis uses genetic mapping technology to assess and identify 9 influencing factors that may impact your health. Your personalized report will recommend specific dietary changes, nutritional supplementation, and practical solutions for reducing the effects of environmental factors. This information will allow you to transform your health at the deepest levels.
Have a Smoke-Free 2026
Something about leaving an old year behind and looking ahead at the clean slate of a new one inspires most of us to try our best to reach our goals. We think about making lasting positive changes in our lives, and we do it with hope and enthusiasm. If you’re planning to start the new year without a cigarette in your hand, but have had no luck sticking with past New Year’s resolutions, consider laser therapy. Laser therapy can help to control cravings and withdrawal symptoms. In clinical studies, patients report a noticeable reduction in cravings, and have a higher chance of success in quitting.
Food for a Healthy Brain
Good nutrition plays a key role in brain health for seniors. A balanced diet rich in nutrients helps protect cognitive function, memory, and mood. Foods high in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, combat oxidative stress, while omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fish reduce inflammation linked to cognitive decline. Whole grains provide steady energy, and nuts, seeds, and avocados supply healthy fats essential for brain health. Seniors should also aim to reduce refined sugars and saturated fats, which can negatively impact cognition. Staying hydrated and limiting processed foods also helps. Prioritizing a nutrient-dense diet supports overall brain vitality and mental sharpness.
Staying Safe in the Winter Months
Winter can be beautiful, but it also brings challenges for seniors’ safety and mobility. To prevent slips, wear proper footwear with good grip, and keep entryways dry and clutter-free. Dress warmly in layers, covering hands, feet, and head to avoid frostbite. Plan outings during daylight and check the forecast before heading out. Indoors, ensure heaters and smoke detectors work properly, and keep emergency contacts handy. Staying active and hydrated also helps maintain balance and energy. With thoughtful preparation, winter can be safe, cozy, and enjoyable. Visit www.hsewinnipeg.com for more helpful wellness tips this season.
Are Your Dentures Loose?
Dentures often become loose because the ridge(gum) naturally shrinks over time after tooth loss. Without tooth roots to stimulate it, the bone gradually resorbs, changing the shape of the gums and reducing the denture’s original fit. Daily wear, weight changes, and normal aging can also play a role. When dentures loosen, they may slip, cause sore spots, or make chewing difficult. To fix this, a denturist can reline the denture to fit your current gum contours, adjust pressure points, or replace the denture entirely if tooth anatomy is worn out. Adhesives can offer temporary stability, but a professional evaluation gives the best long-term solution.
The Power of Flowers for Dementia
Flowers can offer meaningful benefits for people living with dementia. Their colors, shapes, and scents stimulate the senses, which can help evoke memories and improve mood. Engaging with flowers—whether arranging them, touching petals, or tending a small garden—supports cognitive activity and encourages gentle movement. Floral scents like lavender may promote relaxation, while bright blossoms can provide visual cues that reduce confusion in indoor spaces. Even simple exposure to nature, such as viewing blooming plants, can lower stress and enhance emotional well-being. While flowers cannot treat dementia, they can enrich daily life and create calming, joyful moments for those affected.
Winter Pet Safety
It’s important to practice diligence when bringing your pets outside as they can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite. Exposed skin on noses, ears and paw pads are at the most risk during extreme cold snaps. For this reason, short-haired dogs often feel more comfortable wearing a sweater—even during short walks. Rock salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of your pet’s feet. Wipe all paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates their mouth. Consider opting for booties to keep your dog’s paws extra warm and comfortable, all while protecting them from irritants.
Contact Lens Do’s and Don’ts
Wearing contact lenses safely requires proper care and hygiene. DO always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses and store them in the appropriate sterile solution recommended for your particular lenses. DO follow your optometrist’s instructions on wear time and replacement schedules. DON’T sleep in your contacts unless prescribed, as it increases the risk of infection. DON’T rinse lenses with tap water or saliva, which can introduce harmful bacteria. DON’T share lenses or use them past their expiry date. If your eyes feel irritated, remove your contacts immediately and consult an eye care professional. Proper habits keep your eyes healthy and vision clear.
