Life can feel heavy at times, from work stress to parenting challenges to personal transitions. At Sandstone Counselling, we help you pause, reflect, and regain control. Our counsellors provide evidence-based support for anxiety, burnout, and everyday overwhelm. Together, we explore what’s going on beneath the surface and build tools to navigate life more easily. Reaching out isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a powerful step toward wellness. Reach out to us today. We are accepting new clients.
Profile: Michaela O’Brien, Wellness Massage
Michaela recently graduated from the West Coast College of Massage Therapy in Victoria, BC. With a background in both massage therapy and accounting, she brings a unique combination of care, organization, and attention to detail to her practice. Michaela is passionate about wellness and is dedicated to helping others feel their best through intentional, client-centered care. During her clinical internship at WCCMT, Michaela developed strong hands-on skills in various massage techniques, including Swedish massage, myofascial release, deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy, and sports massage. She has experience supporting clients with a wide range of conditions, such as chronic pain, stress, and musculoskeletal injuries.
Tips for Downsizing
So, you’ve decided to downsize. This is a big step for you, so it’s natural to feel a little anxious. This move may be different from others you made when you were younger. That’s because the real estate market is unique nowadays. You’re different, too. Help is available. The first step is to go to our website and download a free ebook that offers you five practical tips that will help you avoid potential downsizing slip-ups so that you can take your next steps with confidence. If you are a child helping your parents move, we have an ebook for you as well.
PIlates for Injuries
When recovering from an injury, it is important to stay mobile and strengthen your body safely to avoid causing further harm. Reformer Pilates is a low-impact exercise method that is gentle on the joints and minimizes stress on injured areas, making it ideal for individuals in recovery. Whether you’re healing from an injury and need to focus on a specific area, or you’re just starting your fitness journey, Pilates can help you move better and build strength without pain. It is especially beneficial for seniors and anyone dealing with injuries or mobility challenges.
Staying Nourished and Hydrated
Staying hydrated and eating well is vital for seniors during the summer. Older adults may not feel thirsty even when their bodies need fluids, increasing the risk of dehydration. Drinking water regularly, even without feeling thirsty, is essential. Include hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges in daily meals. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate. Light, balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins help maintain energy and digestion. Eating smaller, cooler meals more frequently can be more appealing in hot weather. Proper hydration and nutrition support overall health, energy levels, and temperature regulation in summer.
Hear Every Moment of Your Vacation
Vacations are filled with unforgettable sights, sounds, and experiences—from waves crashing on the shore to laughter around the campfire. To truly make the most of your getaway, don’t overlook your hearing health. If you wear hearing aids, ensure they’re clean, charged, and travel-ready. Pack extra batteries or a charger, and consider a waterproof case for added protection. If you’re noticing changes in your hearing, book a hearing check before you go. Clear hearing helps you stay connected, safe, and fully immersed—so you can savour every conversation, sound, and memory your travels bring.
The Benefits of Pilates
Pilates is a low-impact exercise method that builds strength, flexibility, and body awareness. It focuses on controlled movements, breathing, and core engagement, making it ideal for people of all fitness levels. Regular Pilates practice can improve posture, balance, and joint mobility while reducing back pain and the risk of injury. It also supports mental well-being through its mindful approach, helping reduce stress and improve focus. Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance performance or someone seeking better overall movement, Pilates offers a safe and effective way to feel stronger, more aligned, and energized in daily life.
Tips for Healthy Teeth
*Limit Acidic and Sugary Foods and Drinks: Reduce or eliminate intake of sodas, juices, and certain fruits. If you consume acidic foods or drinks, rinse your mouth with water afterward and wait at least 45 minutes before brushing. *Consider Dietary Adjustments: Increase calcium intake through dietary sources like dairy products or supplements to help build stronger teeth. Chew sugar-free gum after meals to stimulate saliva flow, which helps neutralize acids and prevent erosion. *Use a Straw when consuming acidic beverages to minimize contact with teeth. *Consider teeth whitening if the enamel has thinned (if you are a good candidate for it).
Downsizing? Start the Process Early
As we get older, most of us start thinking about our home, the size of it, and how much stuff we have accumulated over the years. When is a good time to start the process of decluttering and downsizing? The answer is well before you are forced to do so due to a change in circumstance, health, or mobility. The earlier you start, the easier the process will be. The first step is to go to our website and download a free ebook that offers practical tips that will help you avoid potential downsizing slip-ups so that you can take your next steps with confidence.
Need a Doctor Today?
We can book one for you! Our staff can connect you with Avee Health, a Vancouver-based company that specializes in providing convenient and accessible healthcare services to patients through businesses like The Medicine Shoppe at Departure Bay Road. With a mission to improve the patient experience, Avee Health works closely with businesses to establish walk-in clinics within their premises, offering a range of primary care services. They provide same-day doctor appointments 24/7 and comprehensive care from prescription refills to addressing minor ailments. Patients enjoy a smooth and efficient experience with easy access to healthcare consultations. Contact us today.
Feel and Release Tension
It is a good time to go outside and stand barefoot in the grass; connect with the earth and ground. Where do you notice your weight? Then bring your awareness up through your legs to your knees—do you feel any tension there? Then up to your hips, back, shoulders, neck, face, and head. Notice how you feel and allow any tension to flow out of you into the ground. This exercise is a great way to destress and increase body awareness. If you find it difficult to notice the tension areas or to release them, Rolfing can help get you on track.


