Research shows that there are nerve fibres that directly link the heart to the brain. More specifically directly to the part of the brain called the amygdala (the part of the brain that is linked to our fight or flight emotions). The power of love is real, as is the power of love to heal yourself! When we open our hearts, free the past and forgive ourselves, we can create a new create a new life for ourselves. In this month where you’re surrounded by commercial symbols of love, why not start with loving yourself?

Flat feet or “fallen arches” are caused chiefly by weak flexor muscles. The major flexor muscles of the foot are meant to propel you forward by pushing against the earth behind you as you walk or run barefoot. However, lifelong use of shoes allows these muscles to atrophy and become weak. As these muscles weaken, they stretch out, allowing the ball of the foot to creep forward, resulting in the eventual collapse of the underside of the foot. Custom orthotics or dynamic rehabilitative orthotics are designed to recruit and strengthen the flexor muscles while you stand, walk, or run.

Heart attacks can present with the following symptoms: chest discomfort, sweating, upper body discomfort including neck, shoulder, arms and back pain, nausea, shortness of breath, and light-headedness. Women may also have these symptoms, but many women can have a heart attack without chest pressure or other typical signs. Women may have extreme fatigue or non-specific upper body discomfort. Don’t dismiss symptoms. Have your symptoms or concerns checked to rule out a heart attack especially if you have a history of high blood pressure or other heart disease.
For more information, go to HeartAndStroke.ca.

There are numerous reasons people experience low back pain—a sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, poor technique with activities (ie. lifting) and weak core muscles are some of the most common contributors. With a physiotherapy assessment, a customized rehabilitation treatment plan can be created to help address the symptoms of low back pain and prevent recurrence. Treatment typically includes a combination of manual therapy and mobility and strength exercises. Current research supports exercise as the most effective treatment option for lower back pain. Physiotherapists are exercise prescription experts and can help low back pain patients feel better and avoid future injury.

Ozone is a supercharged form of oxygen that contains an extra atom. During treatment, this extra atom breaks off after 20-30 minutes inside the body and can bind to and destroy any viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, molds, yeasts, or abnormal tissue cells it finds in the body. These abnormal cells hate ozone, so treatment can be effective in combating disease. Once these abnormal cells are oxidized and eliminated from the body, they are replaced with healthy cells. Ozone therapy, in conjunction with injection therapy, is used to treat and eliminate chronic pain resulting from nerve injuries, degenerative joints and ligaments.

February 23. Coldest Night of the Year! Fundraiser Walk. The Comox Valley Transition Society and Dawn to Dawn are teaming up for our second annual Coldest Night of the Year Walk to end homelessness. This family event will take place in downtown Courtenay. For event details or to volunteer, walk by yourself, join a team or start a team at CNOY.org/location/comoxvalley

Research shows that on a conventional and scientific level that we can communicate with trees. To communicate with a tree, using your hands, connect with its energy field. With your heart ask permission to spend time with it. Place your hands on the tree, smell, feel and touch it’s leaves. Stand and hug or sit with your back against it’s trunk. Sit quiet and connect with the spirit within you. Ask a question and breathe in your answer. Thank the tree before leaving. This takes practise but overtime your communication will intensify.

Thinking about some resolutions for the New Year? Quitting smoking may be the most important change you can make to improve your health. There are numerous immediate benefits to quitting smoking including reducing your blood pressure and heart rate, improving your sense of taste and smell, and improving your circulation, making it easier to exercise. With every year that you are smoke free, your risk of stroke and lung cancer decreases. After 15 years, your risk of a heart attack is the same as someone who has never smoked. (source: www.quitnow.ca). Talk to your healthcare professional today about quitting. It’s never too late!