Osteopathy is a patient-centered approach to health relating to the whole body of the patient. Skilled palpation and a detailed knowledge of anatomy, physiology and biomechanics guide the osteopath to assess and restore balance within and between all the systems of the body. This includes the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, neurological, cranial and visceral systems. In health, the body seeks to maintain a balance within and between these systems. An osteopath uses a wide array of manual approaches to reduce and resolve strains, stress and dysfunction in all areas of the body. The goal is to remove restrictions to vascular, neural and biomechanical mechanisms and ultimately support the natural healing mechanism.

With almost 30 years in the care industry, including 18 years as an LPN and 6 years providing foot care, your feet are in good hands with Christine. After completing the Nursing Foot Care Course at VIU, she found her passion treating Diabetics and feet at risk. A typical foot care treatment includes but is not limited to: Foot inspection and discussion of any identified foot issues, nail trimming/thinning including extremely thick or fungal nails, corn and callus removal and/or reduction. If desired, it can also include a foot wrap and/or application of moisturizer. She is offering specials this month.

Naturally Healthy Clinic, NaturallyHealthyClinic.ca

Kickstart your day with a super clean, raw and nutritionally dense organic drink that increases alertness and stamina. Coconut MCT, Maca super-food, Matcha green tea and many other key juiced powders, together with zero calorie Monk fruit, and even human strain probiotics round out this fantastic Kickstarter! A health-packed alternative to coffee & conventional energy-boosting drinks, PURE GREEN ENERGY gives vigor without potentially harmful effects of excess stimulants. It is also a perfect pre-and-post-workout supplement to replenish essential nutrients, improve cardio performance, and revive your workday energy drain.

Studies show that having a sense of belonging, being part of a community, and making a meaningful contribution to a cause that you believe in, are beneficial to your health. In fact, it greatly enhances your chances of living longer and feeling happier. If you are a woman in the Ladysmith area and would like to be part of a newly formed support group, please put these dates in your diary: 30th Nov and 28th Dec. 6.30-8.30pm. By donation (Suggested $10-20), all proceeds to reforestation projects. Help heal yourself AND save the planet! Contact [email protected] for information.

“Close the door, you are letting in the cold air”. Our homes are built to be energy efficient and we diligently seal any cracks that may be allowing cold drafts into the house. Unfortunately, this also seals off our home from fresh air. In turn, this increases the concentration of VOCs from the use of cleaning products, traditional air fresheners and scented personal products. To keep your air healthy, try unscented products, add certain indoor plants and open windows when seasonally possible. There are also a growing number of natural, scent-free air fresheners that absorb both odours and chemicals.

Preparing for labour begins long before a woman reaches term. Regular acupuncture during pregnancy supports and maintains the woman’s health and the health of the pregnancy. The strength of acupuncture is that it helps supplement, regulate, and harmonize the processes taking place. They can then unfold smoothly and unimpeded, helping foster the conditions necessary for labour to start and progress naturally. Many women pre-book their acupuncture treatments to coincide with midwife or obstetrician visits, and alternate them with their massage, physio and chiro treatments. This helps the body and mind to more fully maximize and integrate the benefits of each treatment.

With school in session, it is time to get back into your exercise routines. Go for long walks around the lake or along the water front. Walking with a friend or using your Walking Poles is the key to a revitalized life. Stretching the body increases flexibility and joint range of motion. Having flexible muscles can improve your daily performance. Stretching also increases the blood flow to your muscles allowing your body to move, so you can enjoy those long walks and to feel good and refreshed for those busy days ahead. Make the move to a healthier life.

Making final arrangements ahead of time is a wise and considerate decision made by more and more families today. It guarantees that your wishes are observed and spares your family from undue pressure at a time of great emotional stress. By planning step-by-step while minds are clear, families can discuss creative and budgetary options. Payments can be made in today’s prices. Perhaps the most important reason to plan your own cemetery arrangements in advance is that it provides a special peace of mind. With everything in place, you can go about the business of living.

It is hard to watch the health of your loved one decline. Choosing residential care is an emotional and difficult time for the individual and their family. Exercising due diligence when choosing a home will pay off with a lot of peace of mind knowing that your loved one’s physical and medical challenges are met. Look beyond the decor and focus on the inner “gut” feeling you get when walking into a facility. Smaller private residential care can be a great alternative to the large institutions. It is also a solution while waiting for your turn for an Island Health subsidized bed.

Here are some tips from Parks and Recreation to help you stay active this fall season: * Change Your Perspective – Being active keeps you healthy. * Try Something New – Parks and Recreation now has Zumba drop-in classes at Oliver Wood for only $7. * Get Creative at Home – Invest in a few pieces of equipment and exercise for a few minutes each day. * Buddy Up – Make a commitment to exercise with somebody else. * Set a Goal –How about getting in 10,000 steps every day for three months?
Looking for ways to stay active? Check out the Activity Guide or visit recreation.nanaimo.ca.