Community News
Seniors & Heart Health

Maintaining heart health is crucial for seniors, as aging increases the risk of cardiovascular conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, and arrhythmias. Lifestyle changes can significantly improve heart health in older adults. Regular physical activity, such as walking or swimming, strengthens the heart and lowers cholesterol. A heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps manage weight and blood pressure. Avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, and managing stress are essential. Seniors should monitor heart health through routine check-ups, addressing conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure promptly. Early detection and healthy habits promote longevity and overall well-being.

Community Fundraising Event

Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is an annual event that supports people in our communities who have experienced homelessness. This fundraiser helps ICCS run programs that provide shelter, care and holistic support to help them step forward to independence and hope. CNOY 2025 takes place on February 22nd, 2025, drawing individuals together to support the cause through raising money as well as taking part in a 2 km or 5 km walk. Across Canada, over 200 communities are involved with CNOY, supported by people who care about their communities and the most vulnerable people who live in them.

Take Time to Breathe

Feeling overwhelmed? Pause for just 5 minutes of mindful breathing. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four. Hold for four, then exhale slowly through your mouth for four. Repeat this cycle to calm your mind, reduce stress, and reconnect with yourself. This simple, powerful practice fits into any busy day, offering balance and peace wherever you are. Start today—your well-being is worth it! To experience the transformative power of Reiki healing, book a session today.

Happiness is Great for your Skin

Your skin can glow from the inside out when experiencing happy feelings or being in love. Positive emotions trigger the release of endorphins and oxytocin, often called “feel-good” hormones, which reduce stress and promote better blood circulation. This boost in circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to your skin, enhancing its natural radiance. Happiness also lowers cortisol levels, reducing inflammation and the likelihood of breakouts while promoting a healthier skin barrier. In short, your joy and love shine through your skin, giving it that sought-after, healthy glow!

January Trivia

1) What city is home to the world’s largest New Year’s Eve party? a. New York. b. London. c. Rio de Janeiro
2) In what decade was the first snowmobile built? 3) What is the term for partially melted and refrozen snow?

Interesting Ear Facts

Ears, beyond hearing, are remarkable for several reasons: *They aid balance, *get bigger throughout life due to natural aging and gravity, *are self-cleaning, *remain alert even during sleep, and *house delicate non-regenerating hair cells crucial for hearing. The ears also regulate pressure changes via the Eustachian tube and are connected to the nose and throat as part of an intricate system. Having two ears helps us figure out which direction sounds are coming from. If you or a family member are concerned about hearing loss, book a free consultation today.

Exercise & Alzheimer’s

Exercise has been shown to have protective effects against Alzheimer’s disease by supporting brain health and cognitive function. Regular physical activity promotes blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and encourages neurogenesis—the formation of new brain cells. Exercise also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to Alzheimer’s progression. Studies suggest that both aerobic and strength exercises can improve memory, attention, and mental processing. Physical activity may also slow brain aging and reduce risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, which are associated with Alzheimer’s. For optimal brain health, a consistent exercise routine is key.

Is it Time to Downsize?

There comes a point when many of us have to move to a smaller home, but it doesn’t have to be sad or stressful. When downsizing, ask yourself if a possession brings you joy; if yes, keep it. If it is great Aunt Bertha’s lamp that you kept because you felt an obligation to do so, give it away to a relative or a thrift shop. When deciding what to give away or keep, it is helpful to have an objective third party help with the decision process. Services are available to guide you and make the process easy and enjoyable.

Travelling with Dentures

This winter, when you travel, be sure you are prepared for denture care. Bring a sealable container, a soft-bristle toothbrush, toothpaste, denture cleanser, adhesive, and any other items that you use regularly. If you have stored your old dentures dry, they will need to be soaked for up to 24 hours in water with a little Listerine in it. Always inspect the bathroom before you leave to be sure that you have everything. If you can find a denturist at your destination before you get there, you will at least have eliminated one concern. Contact them and note their hours.

Help for Dry Skin in Winter

Winter can take a toll on your skin and internal health; certain supplements can help maintain hydration, support immunity, and enhance overall wellness during this season. Here are some recommendations: *Vitamin D – Supports skin repair and immune health, counteracting reduced sunlight exposure in winter. *Omega-3 Fatty Acids* – Keeps skin hydrated, reduces inflammation, and helps prevent dryness and flakiness. *Collagen Peptides* – Improves skin elasticity and hydration and promotes skin repair. *Hyaluronic Acid – Boosts skin hydration and elasticity, especially in dry winter air. *Vitamin E – Antioxidant that helps combat dryness and protects against environmental damage.

Meet the Practitioner: Lily Zunic

Lily Zunic is a Transformational Holistic Healing Practitioner and Certified Reiki Master. She incorporates various healing modalities, including somatic breath techniques, mindfulness, journaling, self-care practices, and art, to support holistic healing. Her mission is to help women overcome stress and overwhelm, navigate life transitions, and reconnect with their well-being. Through personalized Reiki sessions and self-care practices, she creates a supportive space for women to feel seen, nurtured, and empowered. Reiki energy healing is a holistic practice that taps into the universal life force energy to restore balance in the body, mind, and spirit. Experience the transformative power of Reiki healing—book your session today.