Living to Thrive by Kathryn White. The author’s journey after being diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer at 43. Combining personal stories with holistic strategies for body, mind, and spirit, the book guides patients and caregivers toward healing, resilience, and learning how to thrive while living with cancer.
Tiny Seeds Powerful Health
Chia seeds may be small, but they are packed with impressive nutrition. Once a staple in ancient diets, these tiny seeds are now recognized as a modern superfood thanks to their powerful health benefits.
One of their biggest advantages is their high antioxidant content, which helps reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to many conditions, so foods rich in antioxidants can play an important role in overall wellness.
Chia seeds are also loaded with fiber. Just a small serving helps support digestion, keeps things moving in the digestive tract, and may help you feel full longer. This can make them helpful for people trying to manage their weight.
Heart health is another major benefit. Chia seeds contain omega three fatty acids and soluble fiber that may help lower cholesterol levels and support healthy blood pressure. These nutrients work together to protect the cardiovascular system.
They are also rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, which support bone strength and energy production. For those following plant based diets, chia seeds provide a valuable source of protein.
Simple to use, chia seeds can be added to yogurt, smoothies, oatmeal, or salads. A small spoonful each day is an easy step toward better health.
Staying Strong and Independent
At UHC, our team is dedicated to providing the best in home care. Our nurses, PSWs, and physiotherapists assist with Activities of Daily Living and encourage our clients to engage physically, mentally, and socially. A healthy diet and daily movement help maintain physical independence. An exercise that can and should be done daily is Sit-to-Stand. Choose a chair or seat of any kind; with feet flat on the floor, lean forward slightly and push yourself up to standing. Reach back and return to a sitting position. Repeat this movement 10-15 times, 3-4 times per day! Enjoy your strong body! Universal Home Care & Associates
Dance Into Spring Energy
April is the perfect time to shake off the heaviness of winter and welcome the energy of spring. After months of shorter days and cold weather, many Canadians feel ready to move again, and dancing is a joyful way to do it.
You do not need lessons or perfect rhythm to start. Dance is a natural form of expression that our bodies understand. Simply turning on your favourite music and moving around your living room can lift your mood and get your body energized.
Research shows that dancing can reduce symptoms of depression while releasing feel good endorphins. Music and movement together activate the brain’s reward centres, creating a powerful sense of enjoyment that can last long after the song ends.
Dancing also supports brain health, improving balance, coordination, and memory. Studies suggest it may help build new neural pathways and support cognitive longevity as we age.
Best of all, dance brings people together. Whether in a class, at an event, or just sharing a laugh with friends, moving together creates connection and joy.
This April, welcome spring by turning up the music and letting your body move. Sometimes the best way to feel better is simply to dance.
April Trivia
.1 Can short bursts of activity reduce cancer risk? 2. Does strength training benefit more than just muscles? 3. Can walking after meals help health?
Did You Know?
Smiling can boost your mood.
Even forcing a smile can trigger the brain to release feel-good chemicals like endorphins.
Clean Eating Recipe
High-Protein Tuna Avocado Salad: 1 can tuna, drained; ½ avocado, diced; ¼ cup chopped cucumber; 1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt; 1 tsp lemon juice; salt and pepper to taste. Flake the tuna in a bowl and add the avocado and cucumber. Mix in Greek yogurt and lemon juice.Season with salt and pepper and stir lightly. Protein: ~22–25 g per serving. Enjoy it on its own, in lettuce wraps, or on whole-grain toast.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
I tried doing yoga for relaxation.
Now I’m relaxed… but I’m not sure how to get out of this pose.
Words to Live By
“Find opportunities to express your appreciation for all that shows up in your life today. In so doing you will create a state of harmony within yourself and others.” – Keith Macpherson
Words to Live By
Your success and happiness lies in you. Resolve to keep happy, and your joy and you shall form an invincible host against difficulties. – Helen Keller
Words to Live By
“If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.” – Yogi Berra


