Dancing – it’s fun and so good for you. According to experts, dancing regularly improves your cardio fitness, muscle strength and tone, endurance, balance, motor skills, coordination, agility, flexibility and can be a factor in weight management. In addition, studies show that dancing is also great for the brain, as it improves memory and overall mental function. Meet new friends, express yourself through movement and enjoy all the health benefits of dancing. From Ballroom to Zumba, Parks and Recreation offers many types of dance. Contact our recreation experts and dance like nobody’s watching!

The theme for the 2019 Gambling Awareness Week is “Find Your Balance”, in support of maintaining a balanced outlook of the role gambling may play in our lives. In early May, be on the lookout for BC Responsible & Problem Gambling Program community events in your area; ranging from sponsored swims, pop up community awareness booths and contests at community centers and other locations. Finding Our Balance in life can be challenging. Striking that balance is easier when we have a diverse array of activities in which to engage.

Abdominal acupuncture is a revolutionary new acupuncture technique that has been rapidly accepted and has gained huge recognition because of its astonishing therapeutic results. Abdominal acupuncture is very gentle as there is little needle sensation in the abdominal region. It is powerful in its action and can be used to treat any condition that is indicated in traditional acupuncture. The body responds faster to abdominal acupuncture and the curative effect is impressive. Results tend to be powerful and long lasting and are often felt instantaneously.

When you die, where would you like your final resting place to be? With your partner? With your parents or children? Your answer may change based on your age and life stage. If you are like most, you have not yet made up your mind. This is a conversation that should take place sooner rather than later. If your plans have been made, you want to ensure that they are up-to-date. These days, many Canadians are moving farther away, living longer and changing family traditions. This reinforces the need to review and update your end-of-life plans every five-to-ten years or so, or when major life events happen.

Allergies are a symptom of a bigger picture. In the small intestine, friendly bacteria (probiotics) activate our mucus membranes. These are our first line of defense against invasion; the cells within trigger the Inflammation, runny nose, tearing eyes and congestion. When the activated cells respond normally, we don’t have a problem with seasonal allergies. The natural medicine cupboard can support normal function. * Delete grains from your diet * Increase your probiotic intake. * Add digestive enzymes * Digesting a blend of lemon, lavender and peppermint doTerra CPTG essential oils in a small glass of water can help clear your allergy symptoms.

With the arrival of spring many of us are back out in our yards and gardens, fertilizing the grass and planting flowers and veggies in anticipation of summer. With this increase in activity after a long winter comes an increase in neck and low back pain. Doing some stretching before going outside and then again after you come back in can help prevent muscle strains and sprains. Regular daily stretching can help prevent a lot of pains that could otherwise appear. Make morning and evening stretches part of your daily routine to stay healthy and happy.

The importance of hydration is well known among active people. Water regulates your body temperature and lubricates the joints so you can perform your best. It helps transport nutrients that give you energy and keep you healthy. Protein helps build the muscles so you can recover and get the most out of your work out. Protein bars, powders, premix drinks and other healthy snack options are easily available and the best nutrition on the go! A high protein/low carb diet may aid in weight loss and keep your body energy and strength go longer.

Summer is on its way and we want to ensure that you can hear all of it. Because hearing loss is gradual, it’s natural to almost “forget” the sounds you’re no longer hearing. You may have hearing loss if: * You are turning up the volume on the TV or radio * It’s challenging to hear children’s voices * It’s hard to hear when there are multiple conversations *You are asking people to repeat themselves often. A qualified Hearing Care Professional can confirm whether you’re missing sounds because of hearing loss. A quick and easy test is all it takes.

Are you suffering from the effects of tension, stress or trauma? TRE^® is a series of exercises that assist the body in releasing deep muscular patterns of stress, tension and trauma. TRE^® safely activates a natural reflex mechanism of shaking or vibrating that releases muscular tension, calming down the nervous system. When this muscular shaking/vibrating mechanism is activated in a safe and controlled environment, the body is encouraged to return back to a state of balance. It is based on the fundamental idea, backed by recent research, that stress, tension and trauma are both psychological and physical. Sessions are now available in Nanaimo.

Meghan Gorosh, Founder, Elan Wellness, Elan-wellness.com

Arthritis. Just the word alone brings thoughts of pain and medication. What many people don’t realize is that there are multiple types of arthritis that are generally classified as being either inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Some are due to joint degeneration caused by traumas and normal wear-and-tear through our younger years. Starting early on to care for our joints can minimize or prevent us from getting arthritis. Regular chiropractic care can help ensure correct positioning of the body, reducing wear on hip and knee joints, and can help prevent some injuries from occurring.

Dr. Amber Kenmuir, D.C., Long Lake Chiropractic, MySpine.ca

Losing a spouse is a life-altering event that we are never truly prepared for. 

Here are some steps to take now to alleviate some of the stress on the one left behind.

• Have a will to ensure that your estate and affairs will be settled according to your wishes.

• Discuss your final wishes with your spouse.
• Make a list of all your passwords and keep where your spouse can find it.

• Discuss bills, payments and banking details to ensure the surviving spouse can continue to handle everyday tasks. No one likes to think about death so we often neglect to have these important discussions.

Cedar Valley Memorial Gardens, ArborMemorial.ca/en/CedarValley