Some call Hard Knox Talks an addiction recovery podcast. Others call us harm reduction advocates. Hard Knox Talks is a live streaming video podcast centered around all things substance use. From inspiring stories of recovery to useful information about drug policy, and current events, find new Hard Knox Talks episodes every week on YouTube or on your favorite audio podcast platform. We won’t dissapoint!
Community News
Safe Disposal of Expired Medications
It’s not uncommon to have bottles of expired medications sitting in your cupboard or medicine cabinet, but why hold on to them? Start the new year off right by going through your health products and getting rid of anything you no longer need. To dispose of expired prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and other natural supplements properly, bring them to your local pharmacy instead of flushing them down the toilet, placing them down the sink, or throwing them in the garbage. Medications that aren’t disposed of safely can cause health risks for people and animals who might unknowingly ingest them.
December Trivia
1. Which country has a tradition of a witch dropping gifts for children through the chimney at Christmas? 2. How many gifts in total were given in “The Twelve Days of Christmas” song? 3. What does the word “Hanukkah” translate to?
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Q: What’s a parent’s favourite Christmas carol? A: Silent night!
Immune Boosting Soups
Broths and soups not only provide fluid intake, but boost our immune system as well! Garlic, onions, and veggie scraps provide an abundance of nutrients. Then add spices and herbs: TURMERIC/GINGER have anti-inflammatory properties, THYME/ROSEMARY are natural anti-microbials and CINNAMON supports blood sugar control. Add MUSHROOMS galore: they have been shown to help balance different parts of the immune system, plus there is plenty of research in their use for cancer support. CHICKEN soup/broth specifically has been shown to weaken the inflammatory response associated with viral infections, basically slowing the over-the-top cytokine response of the immune system.
Healthy Holiday Gift Ideas
The holidays just got a little more Magical! Norwex® has Gifts for a healthier body and home your family and friends will love! Norwex® cleaning and personal care products are safe, effective, and sustainable, so you can feel good about the gifts you’re giving. Some of Norwex’s products include features such as a revolutionary microfiber that removes up to 99% of bacteria from surfaces using just water – when following the proper care instructions, and an exclusive Baclock® that self-purifies with a micro-silver antibacterial agent. Help with the Norwex® global mission to improve quality of life by radically reducing chemicals in our homes. Scan the QR Code for our New Holiday catalogue!
EchoLight REMS: Next-Gen Bone Health Scan
Enhancing bone health diagnosis, EchoLight REMS (Radiofrequency Echographic Multi-Spectrometry) technology offers a non-invasive, radiation-free solution for assessing osteoporosis and bone density. Unlike traditional DEXA scans, EchoLight REMS provides fast, accurate results by analyzing bone structure using ultrasound. This advanced approach allows for early detection and tailors preventive measures, particularly benefiting individuals at risk for osteoporosis. With quick, reliable scans of sites like the spine and femur, EchoLight REMS can be a game-changer in routine bone health monitoring, offering safer, more accessible care. Consult your healthcare provider about EchoLight REMS to proactively manage your bone health and prevent fractures.
Holidays with Dementia
Many older adults with Alzheimer’s or dementia enjoy and want to be included in holiday festivities. However, the added activities could cause increased agitation and confusion, unpredictable behavior, or mood swings. To create a stress-free, happy holiday season, try to scale things back and modify activities so they’ll feel calm and safe. Focus on a few of the most meaningful traditions. Ask which activities they value most. That could mean trimming the Christmas tree, lighting the menorah, singing songs, or baking special holiday treats. Even if your older adult might not remember these holiday activities later, the warm feelings they’ll have is a different kind of memory their body will carry for a while.
Strengthen Your Financial Well-Being
In today’s unpredictable economic climate, financial health is as vital as physical wellness. FP Canada’s 2024 Financial Stress Index found 44% of Canadians cited finances as their top stressor, with 49% losing sleep and 54% experiencing anxiety or depression. Building an emergency fund, creating an investment plan tailored to your needs, and having the right insurance policies can offer peace of mind and protection for you and your family. Working with a financial advisor who develops a personalized plan can help you reach your goals. Taking proactive steps today can greatly reduce future financial stress.
Give the Gift of Healing
Giving the gift of Reiki healing is an act of profound kindness, unlocking a realm of holistic well-being. Rooted in Japanese tradition, Reiki involves the transfer of universal life force energy through the practitioner’s hands to the recipient. This therapeutic touch nurtures physical and emotional healing, fostering a profound sense of relaxation and balance. The energy transferred can alleviate stress, encourage clarity, and catalyze the body’s self-healing mechanisms. In gifting Reiki, you provide a unique and thoughtful means of promoting serenity and renewal for those fortunate enough to receive it.
Quit Smoking with Laser Therapy
Is quitting smoking on your ‘To-Do List’ year after year? Have you tried just about everything, with little success? Laser Therapy is clinically proven to help to control cravings and withdrawal symptoms, with a 84-95% success rate! In clinical studies, patients report a noticeable reduction in cravings, and have a higher chance of success in quitting. The benefits of quitting smoking with laser over other interventions include no medications with unpleasant side effects, no unhealthy nicotine in your system in the form of patches, and pleasant side effects of relaxation which are a result of the endorphins released in response to the laser.
