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2 Red Deer Express • New Year, New You

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

New Year, New You • Red Deer Express 3

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

New Year’s resolutions – yes or no?

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express It’s that time of year again when folks sign up for fitness programs or pledge to get rid of a bunch of bad habits – all in the name of New Year’s Resolutions.

According to Wikipedia, the most popular resolutions are plans to lose weight, pay off debts, save money, get a better job, get fit, eat right, get a better education, drink less, quit smoking, reduce stress, take a trip or volunteer more.

Indeed. Resolutions run the gamut from bolstering one’s personal health to making a difference in the world at large.

But unfortunately, most people, regardless of their specific New Year’s resolutions, see plans fall flat by February.

How is it that such strongly formulated strategies be tossed aside so quickly? Where is a lasting sense of ‘stick-to-it-tiveness?’

According to Dr. Pauline Wallin, a clinical psychologist based in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, during the month of December people tend to overindulge in eating, drinking, spending money and neglecting exercise. Good habits slide in favour of kicking back and relaxing – and unfortunately some bad behaviours start to surface.

But the resolve to change behaviours is at its peak when people feel full or broke, she said.

“It’s easy to think about going on a diet as we groan from a bloating holiday meal. It’s no problem to plan to quit smoking when we’ve just had a cigarette and replenished our nicotine level. At this point we feel confident about our New Year’s resolutions because we have not yet confronted any prolonged physical deprivation or discomfort.”

When January dawns, people are fed up with rich food and feeling lethargic.

It’s easy to shell out the cash for the gym membership, for example. But appetites for bad foods, passivity or smokes eventually resurface. So resolutions tend to get pushed further ahead.

But human nature being what it is, our behaviour isn’t likely to change much when the weather warms

up. So why do people ditch resolutions?

Wallin said one reason is that folks become discouraged when results don’t come quickly. She offers a few tips to help ensure success as people consider how to better their lives with the New Year.

First, examine your motivation for change.

“If you can’t think of a better reason than the fact that you’re uncomfortable at this moment, then you’re better off not making promises to yourself that you probably won’t keep.

“However, if you are realistic and accept the responsibility of discipline required for change, your motivation will be sustained long after the discomfort from overindulgence has passed.”

Secondly, set realistic goals and focus on behavioural change more than the goal. It’s also important to allow for imperfection.

And whatever your plans, put them into motion now -- don’t put off strategies for a changed lifestyle any longer. There’s no big mystery as to the difficulty of changing our ways. Writer Phil Cooke said that real change is one of the most difficult things we’ll ever tackle in our lives. Let’s face it - even the threat of death isn’t enough to change some folks’ behaviour.

On the web site ChurchLeaders.com, he cites a study that showed within only two years, 90% of open heart surgery patients go back to their old eating habits – “The same lifestyle that got them there in the first place.”

For real change to happen in our lives, we need more than wishes and resolutions, he writes. “We need to understand how to embrace the kinds of techniques that allow real transformation to happen.”

He offers several tips, from letting go of the past and knowing your destination to taking control of your priorities and eliminating destructive distractions.

Another useful tool?

Find personal cheerleaders. “Surround yourself with friends who believe in you, and eliminate negative people from your life. I cannot stress this enough.

Spend less time with people who drain your energy and resources, and more time with people who love and

support your dreams and goals.”

Ultimately, experts agree that no matter how stubborn a habit you’ve developed, there are ways to break negative patterns and keep healthy resolutions throughout the New Year. The trick is to keep everything in perspective.

Consider kicking the smoking habit - one of the most common pledges people make as a New Year dawns. For those not very addicted, self-help material

and a dose of will power may do the trick.

Those struggling with a more serious addiction may need medication or more intense behaviour modification to break the habit.

There are often associated activities with smoking, such as sitting in your car or drinking coffee, so it’s helpful to replace these with healthier alternatives such as going for a walk or drinking lots of water.

More resources are avail-

able at www.AlbertaQuits. com.

AlbertaQuits Online is an Internet-based quit smoking service, available free-of-charge.

It’s a self-guided, interactive program to help people quit smoking and become permanent non-smokers.

Once a person registers, they can access the tools and services featured - anytime and anywhere.

Those who check out the site will find expert advice, online peer support,

quitting strategies, email reminders and more. Highlights of AlbertaQuits also include quitting tools such as self-assessment quizzes to help you plan and pick a quit date, a ‘quit journal’ to record progress, and quit tips emailed to your computer. There are also opportunities to visit clubs and topic forums for fun, education and assistance and to enjoy real-time connections with other exsmokers in chat rooms. editor@reddeerexpress.com

4 Red Deer Express • New Year, New You

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Hot fashion trends to watch out for in 2014

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express Adding a few new pieces to your wardrobe can not only help boost your confidence but it can also help to transition you into the upcoming season fashion-wise.

Bev Krausher, owner of Great Strides, said colour is prominent in the new lines coming out for 2014.

“One of the biggest trends again for spring continues to be colour. Women have embraced that – we aren’t going back to black and beige. Jewel tones have been important and the citrustype colours have been apparent,” she said. “For the spring we will see softer versions of those as well, so if you’re not the person to wear hot orange or green, there is going to be a mellower version of that for you.

“Metallic is also continuing to be very strong.”

For those who are not used to wearing colour, shoes and accessories can be a good place to start introducing them.

“Do invest in your wardrobe and get those basic pieces and then have some fun with your accessories and we might put shoes into that category,” said Krausher. “Fashion should be fun and you shouldn’t struggle and think it’s a chore, so make sure you find the stores that have the pieces that are good for you. Don’t be a slave to what you think are fashion trends – develop your own trends from what you are seeing in the magazine.”

She added every woman should have a few staple pieces of clothing in their wardrobes.

“You’ve got to have a little black dress, the perfect pair of black pants, a great blazer, jeans that fit you well – denim is never going to go away, it’s a mainstay in our wardrobe. Women should also have the perfect button down shirt – and don’t cheap out on this, buy the good one. When you have those pieces in your wardrobe then you can have all kinds of fun with your accessories, shoes and handbags.”

Nicole Hewitt, co-owner of Talk of the Town in Red Deer, said women should not be afraid to try on different styles, even if they don’t think it would suit them.

“Stepping outside the box is key. I find a lot of women with curves don’t want to try on a pair of skinny jeans, whereas I have curves and you can still step out of your box and still look great,” said Hewitt.

She added the size of the clothing doesn’t matter if it fits properly.

“Women need to be at peace with their body shape and size and be comfortable in their bodies,” said Hewitt.

“If you find a piece of clothing you cannot go by size – everything fits so differently. It is important to acknowledge your body and find things that flatter your body shape instead of always not being comfortable with the size you are in.”

Hewitt said in terms of trends for 2014, tunics are big and those can be dressed up or dressed down.

“Leather detailing and patterns on the bottom are trendy this year as well.

The skinny and straight-legged look is still in as well.”

Meanwhile, in terms of styles of shoes for 2014, Krausher said they are seeing a variety of different types.

“What is very prominent is pumps – every woman should have a pair of pumps and there is a pair of pumps for everyone – there are all kinds of heel heights and heel styles from kitten heels to stilettos,” she said. “We are getting away from the chunkiness so we are not seeing heavy heels as much anymore.”

In addition, Krausher said adding new pieces to your wardrobe will not only put a smile on your face but will put a bounce in your step as well.

“We are visual beings. When we look at ourselves in the mirror and we like what we see, there’s going to be a smile on our face and our shoulders will go back a little bit, we’re going to walk a little bit taller. People recognize that confidence and I think that is infectious.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

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New Year, New You • Red Deer Express 5

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

How to start over in love in the New Year For many years, I had this weird idea in my head that if I woke up at 3:15 a.m., I could start my life over. If I happened to awake in the middle of the night, I’d sit up and look at my alarm clock, hoping to see the digital green glow of those magic numbers – 3:15 a.m. If it happened, I’d make an early morning pact with myself to stop doing whatever it was that wasn’t working in my life, and start doing something else.

DEBRA

MACLEOD It wasn’t until many years later that I discovered the meaning behind my 3:15 a.m. superstition. That was the time of morning in the old horror movie The Amityville Horror when all sorts of ghastly, ghostly things would start to happen in the haunted house. In all likelihood, I saw a commercial for this cult classic as a kid and the memory of it warped into something else in my mind. I probably spent a month sleeping my parents’ bed, too.

My point is this: it’s human nature to want a fresh start. A clean slate. A doover. I was so captivated by the idea that my mind constructed one out of a scary commercial. Our desire for a fresh start is what makes dates like New Year’s Day so appealing.

When better to start a new health regime or look for that new job? New Year,

New You, right?

As often as not, fresh starts spring from spoiled endings such as divorce or breakup. Using a day like New Year’s to mark the beginning of a new phase of your life is a good idea, providing you’ve done a little prep work to make your new way of thinking or acting stick.

First, know what you want. That sounds simple, but you’d be amazed how many people don’t know, or are wishy-washy about what they want. Do you want to find a new long-term partner to marry and have a family with, or is it enough to live together? Do you simply want to date and not commit to one person? If you don’t know, you can’t be secure in yourself or sincere with another person.

Second, look back. What was it that tanked your last relationship? And don’t say your partner. Of course, he or she had a part to play, but it takes two to tango.

Were you negative, belligerent, demanding or self-righteous? Were you a know-it-all?

A cheater? A liar? A spender?

Know your own faults and have the humility to face up to them. Unless you do, you’re doomed for one failed relationship after another.

That doesn’t mean your ex-partner is blameless; however, instead of just fingerpointing, make a list of the behaviours your ex exhibited – such as those above – and use them as red flags when dating new people. The moment the behaviours pop up, end the relationship and move on.

Dating is a screening process. It’s also an opportunity to stop making the same mis-

takes in love.

Third, live in the moment. Distract yourself from feelings of regret or melancholy about past failed relationships by staying busy.

Rediscover something you love to do, especially if it’s something you weren’t able to do when you were with your ex. Try new things, from wine tasting and yoga to photography and learning a second language.

It doesn’t matter. Just live!

Fourth, think like a butterfly. Life itself is a metamorphosis, a constant changing of circumstances, feelings, opinions and

desires. Float with it and embrace the change. Having a symbol of your ‘new life’ can be helpful. It’s why some women melt down their wedding rings after divorce and create something new – like a butterfly pendant – out of them.

Set your alarm clock for 3:15 a.m. one night. You’re scheduled for a fresh start.

And who knows? Maybe that old horror movie is finally over and a new romantic comedy is about to begin.

Debra Macleod, B.A., LL.B. is a personal and relationship consultant with offices in Red Deer and Calgary.

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6 Red Deer Express • New Year, New You

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Primary Care Network helps with lifestyle changes

BY MARK WEBER Red Deer Express Partnering doctors with services provided by Alberta Health Services, the Red Deer Primary Care Network (PCN) aims to help residents adopt healthier lifestyles with new programs added for the New Year.

A PCN is a network of doctors and other health providers such as nurses, dietitians and pharmacists working together to provide primary health care to patients.

Each network has the flexibility to develop programs and provide services in a way that works locally to meet specific needs of patients.

This flexibility to develop local solutions to health issues makes each PCN unique, said Lorna Milkovich, executive director.

“Our programs are pretty much all aimed at empowering people to improve their lives,” she said.

“One of the things I’d like to highlight - something we started last year, but will be carrying on with even more in 2014 – are our health cafes, which are open to the public.”

They run about every two months, and cover a range of

health-related topics. First up is a ‘Health Cafe on Sleep’ session presented by Dr. Norah Vincent of the University of Manitoba.

The session runs Jan. 23rd from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Red Deer Lodge.

Past health cafes have focused on how to be a better patient, tips on exercise, information about vaccinations and another was about dealing with the effects of menopause.

Folks are encouraged to check the web site for updates about the latest health cafes as well.

“We’re also open to suggestions from the public as to what they’d like to hear about,” she said.

“We really want to be delivering what people want to hear; what they are interested in.”

Another program that is open to the public, without the need for a doctor’s referral, is ‘Ask the Dietician’.

This new program offers participants a way to connect with a registered dietitian and get trusted advice on healthy eating.

It is a small group appointment of one hour set aside to have nutrition questions answered and to help bridge the gap between ‘knowing and doing’.

“We patterned it after a pro-

gram in Calgary that works really well.”

Call 403-343-9100 to book. Again, there is no referral needed.

‘OUR PROGRAMS ARE PRETTY MUCH ALL AIMED AT EMPOWERING PEOPLE TO IMPROVE THEIR LIVES.’ LORNA MILKOVICH The Primary Care Network was launched in 2006, and the purpose was to fill gaps in health care, help connect people with services and also to help them to take better care of themselves.

The gamut of programs provided and created by the PCN is widereaching.

Specific programs include ‘Talk to a Counselor’, ‘Quit Smoking’, ‘Blood Pressure’, ‘Memory and Functioning Testing’ and another called ‘Health Basics’ which helps people adopt better eating habits and more active lifestyles.

‘Strong and Steady’ helps people become stronger and steadier on their feet, particularly elderly people who may have increasing issues with balance.

There are also programs that

focus on mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety.

Happiness! is one of the PCN’s most popular programs, offering 13 ways of helping participants adopt more cheerful and positive views on life.

Participants learn that happiness is a state of mind, and must be chosen and reinforced with action on a daily basis.

They learn what happy people do and how they think. They also learn skills that build greater positive experiences, engagement, meaning, social relationships and opportunities for achievement.

“They learn strategies right from gratefulness to doing good deeds – it’s simple but it really makes an impact on people.”

There is also a pharmacist program where pharmacists will assess, review and make recommendations for medication management.

“All of our programs are wellresearched. Happiness! shows not only a significant improvements in people’s moods, but even some people’s pain is improved after taking that program.

“All of our programs are about teaching people strategies to take better control of their health, and live a better quality life.”

Part of the challenge for the PCN is building awareness - as Milkovich points out, often there are really helpful programs that people are simply unaware of.

Currently, there are 41 Primary Care Networks in Alberta and Red Deer’s PCN is the eighth largest.

As mentioned earlier, PCNs differ widely both in size and in the nature of programs provided.

“We serve the City of Red Deer and the surrounding area.”

These days, one of the challenges is continuing to work on getting the message out there of what is available through the local PCN. “I think the biggest thing is people not being aware that it’s there,” said Milkovich of the PCN. “We want people to be able to access what they need when they need it.

“Again, we’re all about empowering people to live the best possible quality of life they can,” she said. “And in everything we do, we are also all about being positive and fun.”

For more information about all the available programs, check out www.reddeerpcn.com. editor@reddeerexpress.com

New Year, New You • Red Deer Express 7

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8 Red Deer Express • New Year, New You

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Getting ‘financially fit’ this year

BY ERIN FAWCETT Red Deer Express Getting on track in the right direction financially is something that can be done in 2014, no matter what a person’s financial situation is.

Adam Wolfe, investment specialist with Servus Credit Union, said one of the first steps someone should take when trying to get financially fit is making a budget.

“It is important to be honest and realistic with a budget. With dieting, it’s the same thing. If you aren’t honest with yourself about what you are eating and what you are doing, you are not going to get ahead – it’s the same with finances. If you are not honest and you are not budgeting for entertainment, for miscellaneous and for emergencies, you are not going to get ahead with your budget.

“Even if someone was to start tracking their spending so that they can prepare to do a budget, that is something that would be helpful as well, so that they are realistic as to what

their goals are.”

For those unsure of where to start in terms of making a budget, Wolfe said there are a number of web sites to help steer a person in the right direction.

“Also, using cash is a great way to stay on track.

Now with debit cards and credit cards it’s very easy to make a $100 purchase that way, whereas if you have to give up that bill, it’s a lot more difficult,” said Wolfe.

“It’s important to know exactly where your money is going because it can be very easy to have more money flowing out of your account than coming in.”

Making sure to put money away in a savings account is also something that is important.

“It’s one thing to concentrate on now but it’s definitely important to concentrate on the future as well,” said Wolfe. “And that is where having a financial adviser can help to determine the best mix – is it better to pay down the debt? Or is it better to put money away?

This depends on what the rates are for the debt versus

the investment.”

Talking to a financial adviser is also key to getting on the right track.

“People that are in that role are trained and are highly educated on all of the government programs that are available to help you make money. They are going to be the most tax effective with your money and they are going to be able to think of little ways to help you save or help you pay off debt.”

In addition, Wolfe said the New Year coincides with a lot of government programs that can be advantageous to those wanting to begin to get their finances in order.

“There are the Tax Free Savings Account and the Registered Savings Plan and people can take advantage of to help with debt repayment or retirement savings or both. A financial adviser would be able to help someone capitalize on these programs.”

Wolfe added it is also important for people to be aware of the kinds of fees they are paying.

“It is important that you understand what fees you are paying and what value you are receiving

for those fees. Every financial institution has their suite of products and just make sure you

are getting value for your product and the right advice for your money.” efawcett@reddeerexpress.com

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This New Year let the new you get rid of that old ink you’re no longer happy with.

If you no longer love that ink, then laser tattoo removal may be the answer.

Co-owners of State of Art Laser in Red Deer, Matt Connors and Barry Hannah said that while for many years up until the early 2000s tattoos were considered permanent.

Now thanks to machine like the Q-Plus C Laser removal is easier than ever before.

“Thanks to the revolutionary advancements in laser therapy, a tattoo doesn’t have to be a lifelong reminder of things we wish we hadn’t done,” states the shop’s web site.

“We can help you remove it or fade it so you can get a new tattoo you are proud of.”

The Q-Plus C Laser works by harnessing the power of the laser to shatter the pigment of the tattoo into tiny particles.

Hannah added that the reason they chose this par-

ticular model is because of the three different wavelengths available on the machine to be able to take out the difficult colours such as blues and greens.

After a first session, over the next four to six weeks, a client’s body will then carry the shattered pigment out through the lymphatic system to slowly fade the tattoo.

“The tattoo industry has changed so much and the quality of tattoos that are available now are so much better than they were in the past,” said Connors.

“People who got ink back then might see the styles that are out now that are available and want that higher quality, so they are certainly candidates for laser removal.”

Hannah added that many of their clients are people who got their tattoos at a young age or who have since changed professions from when they got their tattoos and are now finding they no longer love them.

“So you have this tattoo that is a few inches big and you want to cover it with something that is a few inches bigger,” said Han-

nah, on why laser may be better than cover ups.

“But then you don’t like that tattoo so you cover it with some thing else again and now you have this massive spot of tattoos on tattoos that you still don’t like, so why not just remove the first one?”

Hannah and Connors said that there are vast psychological benefits to tattoo removal.

“You may not be the same person you were when you got that tattoo and maybe looking at it every day is affecting your life,” said Hannah.

While the removal process is more painful than a tattoo, it only takes five to 15 minutes for each session.

People may need anywhere from four to 15 sessions to see the results they desire depending on the size and quality of the tattoo.

While some people may experience some discomfort after the treatment, Hannah and Connors said that after their own laser removals they barely felt any pain or discomfort after 24 hours. jswan@reddeerexpress.com

New Year, New You • Red Deer Express 9

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

What does ‘a new you’ really mean?

Every January, we hear all the fitness places and the makeover places, and diet centers and self help groups all talk about ‘A New You’ this year.

What does that even mean? Why do we keep on saying that each year? Is it even possible? A new you? Really?

Scott

McDERMOTT YES! Absolutely! I am personally proof of it, having gone from fat and sick, to fit and healthy, and I have hundreds of clients that are too.

One such fellow went from 350 lbs to 190 lbs over a period of three years, and he started in January. Another lady is down over 100 lbs in just over two years, and she started in January.

Every year we have dozens and dozens of clients start a fitness and health change in January and truly make it stick, so as much as it sounds like a tired old cliché, it actually works!

But. (Aaah, you had to know there was a ‘but’ right?) the thing is, the plan doesn’t work, you make it work! Yup, what we are talking about here, is you making a change.

You must start the year by setting some intentions for what you will commit to doing differently and then take action!

Jan. 1st is the traditional time of New

Year’s resolutions, and try as they might to squash this tradition, the naysayers and pundits are wrong: New Year’s resolutions do work, if you make them work!

The people that say they do not work are just trying to justify their mediocre lives where nothing improves, nothing changes and they are tired of failing. Fair enough, but that pattern can end at any time. You just have to make the decision to change, that’s it.

‘A New You’ can mean so many things, and if you are up for it, there are no limits!

Jan. 1st is a great time to put the past behind you, and look with fresh eyes into a brand new year, where literally anything is possible.

It could be getting pregnant after years and years of trying, it could be getting fit and dropping a bunch of unhealthy weight, it could be a new job, a new partner, a new house, or anything that can transform your reality.

‘A New You’. What could that look like for you? Can you picture that? What if there were no limits? What if money, time, and space didn’t matter? What if you made a list of all the things you thought could change on the path to a new you? What would be on your list?

People stop at this point, and refuse to make lists, refuse to set goals and refuse to take a chance. Why? Are you so happy with everything?

If so: great! Perhaps you are already ‘The New You’, but since you have read this far, I doubt it. So let’s pretend you aren’t

100% satisfied with everything. What stops you from transforming your only life, into what you wish it to be?

For most folks, it is fear of failing.

Fear of creating a big list, and then on Dec. 31st a year later, looking at it, and seeing that you didn’t accomplish anything.

That would be terrible, but let me tell you, it won’t happen that way.

If you made a list of 100 things that you wanted to change, improve, have or do this year, I know for a fact that you will accomplish most of them in 365 days. You may even forget about the list and accidentally accomplish them. You see, once you make a list, a written list, then your subconscious mind goes about making it a reality, simply because you wrote it down.

It’s like giving your subconscious mind homework. You don’t even have to pay attention to some of the things on the list, they will just happen.

OK, so let’s be clear, most things will require you to get off your butt and do stuff - like getting fit and healthy so you can look fabulous and feel great. That one takes time and effort for sure, and let me tell you from firsthand experience - it is worth every second of effort. When I was 30, I was fat and sick and could hardly do anything physical.

I watched a lot of TV and played video games all day if I wasn’t working. I was watching life slip away. Now at age 43, I just returned from a month in Hawaii, where I raced in the Ultraman World Championships.

I never, ever dreamed that was possible 15 years ago, yet here I am. All I did, was write down some goals and then work to make them come true and I began living in my own personal ‘New You’, and now it’s your turn!

You will never get another 2014, so make it the BEST one you can!

Scott McDermott is a personal trainer and owner of Best Body Fitness in Sylvan Lake.

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10 Red Deer Express • New Year, New You

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Local woman talks about journey to health and happiness As this feature is about a New Year and a new you, my sister, who just happens to be the publisher of this newspaper, thought I could give people advice on how to work at becoming a new you in 2014. In the last two years I have become a new me - I have quit smoking and lost 75 lbs.

JANET

PALMER I am not going to tell you some fairytale about having a few nice thoughts, counting calories, joining a weight loss program, taking some sort of quit smoking cure and walking around the block once a week and all your weight, addiction and happiness issues will be solved.

The hardest part about success in any venture is first, believing that you can. I did not wake up one day and decide that I was going to change my life. I

did wake up one day and decide that I could and would be happier in my life.

As corny as that sounds losing weight and quitting smoking was not my goal.

My goal was to just be happier. Being happy didn’t come easy to me at that time in my life, some days I just had to fake it. After a few months of conscious and deliberate happiness it dawned on me that I didn’t have to fake it so often. This was the springboard to everything else.

I knew I had to quit smoking. We all know we have to quit smoking and many of us have tried over and over and used all forms and methods to help.

Again, I repeat it is really, really, really hard work.

I just quit. I thought I was losing my mind some days.

Some nights I put the pillow over my head and cried but I did not have a cigarette. I was very proud of myself and that made me happy (see the theme happening here). I also believe to this day that I will never ever have another cigarette Slowly, it started to dawn on me that this happiness thing could be perpetuated.

At that time in my life losing weight was not really a goal for me. I was now pretty ‘happy’ (there is that word again). My weight has fluctuated since my teens.

At my age I was comfortable in my skin. I then had one of those annual physicals that women take every three or four years or when absolutely necessary. My doctor of many years told me that I had too much of the skin I was comfortable in and at my age this could cause me some serious health issues. Once I recovered from the shock of ‘my age’ and actually looked at some of the pamphlets he gave me and thought, heck if I can quit smoking I can lose some weight. I also thought that the journey would make me happy (here we go again).

Over the span of about 40 years I have probably lost 200 lbs (yes I am old enough to still use pounds but young enough to know I shouldn’t). As with almost everyone else that 200 lbs I lost they keep finding me no matter where I move or how far away I move. Those pounds have a GPS coordinated directly to my butt.

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In order to even understand the process of food and weight loss I spent a lot of time with a program that is available in Red Deer through Alberta Health Services. There are many programs available in Red Deer that can assist people in obtaining a healthy lifestyle.

The following are my opinions and learned experiences only. If I have attributed any program wrong I can only thank them for their continued support through this journey and thank them for their contribution to my ‘happiness’ (there it is that word again).

There are only four groups that make up calories. Calories are a measure of energy and, I believe, the only measurement to gaining or losing weight is calories. If the number you take in exceeds the number you expend you will gain weight. The only way to expend these calories is in movement, either in our day to day lives or (here comes the shrieks and scary parts) exercise. A calorie is made up of either a protein, carbohydrate, fat or alcohol. Frankly I was very relieved that alcohol actually formed part of this group and could be measured. OK enough of the science part.

If I haven’t lost you by now I can tell you that the science is really easy, the practicality of it is hard work. I wish I had a magic answer, I don’t. It will only take you minutes and a search engine to determine that you must balance your calorie intake to your calorie output. Sounds easy but it is hard work. Pick your battles, make a plan.

It is difficult for us to allocate what hours go where and sometimes we don’t

even have control of those hours.

As I am of a certain age I no longer have the children, the sports, the school, the day to day. If you do, you should stop reading this article right now and realize that I bow to your very day to day fortitude. I have been there and there is no room for the selfish self-centered ideology I am talking about.

However, that being said, I wish when my children were younger and I was in my ‘balancing act’ I had made myself important. I wish I had given myself the permission to be confident and important every day of my life. If you are that

person reading this believe me when I say I understand but please try to be as important to you as everyone else in your life.

I am a happy person.

Aside from the normal fundamental goals we must all maintain in our lives, ‘being happy’ is my goal. I admit the Dali Lama does not have to worry about me moving in on his territory.

Having faked it till I could own it and I do own my life in its entirety. I am a happy, healthy, energetic person, I care about people in my life and my community. I understand the concept of “if it makes you laugh keep doing it”. I think I could be the Dali Lami’s distant cousin.

A New Year, A New Start!

All the Best

in 2014!

Earl Dreeshen, MP

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New Year, New You • Red Deer Express 11

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Variations of purple are the colours of 2014 It’s a New Year and I’m feeling good! A modified line to one of my favourite Michael Buble covers. 2014 has so much promise.

Kim

MECKLER Trends and colours for this year are bursting out of the gate like a spring racehorse. Whereas 2013 came in green and sort of chilled out, 2014 is bursting on the scene with Radiant Orchid debuting as Pantones colour of the year for 2014.

Even the qualifier ‘radiant’ tells you that the colour you are about to enjoy is extremely hot!

Want to meet this amazing tone? Care to go back to the retro days where violet eye shadow was the rage and we actually used purple mascara to enhance our features? I’m assuming you don’t; besides if you are old enough (like me) to remember wearing frosty purple eye shadow, you probably have a few too many wrinkles to wear this bold shade! Is it purple?

Is it fuchsia? It is actually a combination of both, according to Letrice Eisman, creative director of the Pantone Colour Institute, “An

enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, (it) inspires confidence and emanates great joy, love and health.

It is a captivating purple, one that draws you in with its beguiling charm.”

The importance of this ‘colour of the year’ announcement is that everyone and every company will now start to create products in variations of this colour.

If you are too old for knock your socks off purple eye shadow; give the lip tint a try or go bold on your next pedicure. You will start to see this purple vision coming out in spring fashions and accessories then of course home décor items will follow suit. If you still aren’t over the teal green of 2013 then buy up your supplies now while they are still available, before Orchid madness takes over!

This colour is not for the timid and should be used sparingly in interior design, think accessories and think small because even a drop of this colour will be the first thing you notice in any room.

It is extremely sharp when used with white or silver but be careful blending it with too much black or your room might end up looking like a left behind Halloween party. This hue is showing up in the hottest drapery pattern right now – the Chevron. This bold zig-

zag is both loft contemporary and traditional and will work with just about any other pattern you may already have.

Think of it like decorating with red or orange, it is a daring colour which will dominate any room it is used in. If you choose to paint a room this colour be aware that it will take several coats to cover

well and that a tinted primer is recommended. I would suggest painting a dresser or lamp in this colour (with a fabulous silver lampshade) to see if you will enjoy the colour long term. Search for an inspiring accent chair or get really creative and paint your own masterpiece! Invest in a loved black and white photo or

poster and add a dash of Orchid to highlight this beautiful colour.

Imagine a large picture of the Eiffel Tower with vibrant purple strokes of paint highlighting its stunning architecture – you can be your own Van Gogh.

Kim Meckler is an interior designer in Red Deer with Carpet Colour Centre.

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12 Red Deer Express • New Year, New You

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Boosting your life balance for optimal health Do you sometimes feel like you are ‘out of balance?’

Life can feel like a balancing act and according to an ancient (5,000-year-old) health approach called Ayurveda, the basis of health is balance.

Allan

EVANS According to Ayurveda, balance is defined as the intelligent and coordinated functioning of all the aspects of our lives. Ayurveda tells us that being in balance is the basis for health. Our bodies have an inner wisdom. Deep down we know what types of things that we experience and ingest are supportive and nurturing; when we make choices aligned with these concepts we experience health.

But when you choose to not listen to your inner wisdom, possibly because of a build-up of toxins, inadequate sleep or poor diet – your body does not function optimally and you begin to experience symptoms that may be warnings of later disease. In other words, you are out of balance.

According to Ayurveda there are three mind/body principles and each of us falls into one category

or a combination of the categories: Vata, Pitta and Kapha.

Vata type people tend to be slim, have dry skin, thin dry hair, small hands, walk and talk fast, very spontaneous, often change their mind. When in balance Vatas are energetic, creative, adaptable, show initiative and are great communicators. When out of balance they may experience anxiety, worry, inconsistency, insomnia, delicate digestion and constipation.

Causes of aggravation may be fall and early winter, erratic work or life schedule, excessive exercise, stress, fear and many others.

Pitta people tend to be medium in build, flushed skin, moles, very thoughtful, precise, list makers, easily irritable and like sports and politics. When in balance Pittas have a sharp intellect, are direct and precise, they like to stay close to routine, are courageous, are good teachers and speakers.

When out of balance Pittas can experience anger, irritability, be excessively critical or harsh, judgmental, experience skin rashes and indigestion. Causes of aggravation include summer, smoking, alcohol, outdoor activities in the afternoon, excessive competition, intellectual stimulation and many others.

Kapha people tend to be well-built, have thick full hair, firm hands, like a slower pace, have a deep voice,

don’t plan but follow others, nature person, and like to have fun.

When in balance, Kaphas and easygoing and patient, thoughtful, stable, content, devoted, loving and comfortable with routine. When out of balance Kaphas experience dullness, inertness, can be needy, congested, overweight and overly protective.

Cause of aggravation include late winter, spring, rainy season, eating and drinking too much, excessive sleep, lack of exercise and many others.

Most people are a combination but always have one predominant Dosha.

There are various questionnaires and trained people that can help you determine your exact Dosha.

This is the start of what can be a tremendous transformation for anyone. The next step is to see a qualified Ayurvedic wellness coach to take it to the next level and begin the process of balancing your body with foods, spices, meditation, activities, cleansing, scents, massage, herbs and other practical approaches.

On a final note, many people feel that the missing piece in their lives is peace. Meditation, in particular Primordial Sound Mediation when practiced regularly brings balance and peace to our lives.

Allan Evans is the co-owner of O2xyWellness in Red Deer.

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New Year, New You • Red Deer Express 13

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Taking care of your body after the holidays The holidays have come and gone and now is the time to get back to taking care of your skin and yourself. Fun times over the holidays, unfortunately, have their price. Here are a few ways to get your pre-holiday glow back.

NATASHA

ROACH One of the best things you can do for your skin is to make sure you remove your makeup and cleanse at night before bed. Your skin, like your body, repairs itself at night and going to bed with a day’s worth of makeup and environmental grime on your face will stop the recovery process in its tracks.

Wash with warm, not hot, water to keep skin from drying out and avoid cleansers with harsh detergents.

After cleansing, choose a moisture-rich cream that contains emollients like ceramides to boost the skin’s natural barrier and seal moisture in. Getting a good sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your skin and sleeping with a clean and moisturized face is

even better.

If your skin requires more of a rejuvenation than a good sleep and moisturizing cream can offer, a microdermabrasion may be what you’re looking for.

A microdermabrasion uses crystals and suction to help exfoliate your skin. The machine blasts crystals at your skin while sucking up dirt, dead skin, and used crystals.

The feeling has been compared to a cat licking your face. The treatment will usually include a cleanse and gentle massage and you will be advised to use a moisturizer with SPF 30 afterwards as your skin will be more sensitive to the sun for a few days.

Diamondabrasion is another option similar to microdermabrasion. It uses a laser cut diamond tip wand and suction rather than crystals.

It is a more accurate procedure and the technician is able to get closer to the eye and mouth area without worrying about stray crystals getting into your eyes or mouth.

Another great way to help you get your glow back is through massage.

Many people think that getting a massage is too much pampering but, massages are more than just a pampering experience, they are

a body healing and emotional stress-relieving tool. Daily emotional stress can cause tension in the neck and the back making the neck and back feel stiff and sore.

The discomfort of tight muscles increases stress. Sometimes a person does not even realize that he has muscle tension until the tension is relieved through massage.

Massages reduce pain by reducing muscle tension and stimulating blood flow and increasing oxygen supplies to the blood stream.

Oxygen is carried through the blood stream to the muscles, inducing healing of injuries and sore muscles.

The reduction of pain helps to relieve stress. Massage is a use-

ful tool to aid stress relief and pain relief. Reduction in stress and pain can last for days, weeks or even months after a massage, depending on the individual and circumstances.

Do yourself a favour after all the hard work of the holidays and treat yourself today.

Natasha Roach is with Body Treats Medi Spa in Red Deer.

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14 Red Deer Express • New Year, New You

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Improving your quality of life this year A New Year is upon us and with that comes the renewed motivation to improve our health and well-being.

A new year, a new you is a common slogan we all hear. Start the New Year out right is another. Of course motivation is only one small aspect to the renewal and transformation of our minds, bodies and spirits. In order to ensure a successful revitalization of yourself you must follow the proper steps and follow

CHRIS

SENKO through with your micro goals in order to achieve the larger goal or see an idea come to fruition.

Introspection is a good start to the process of iden-

tifying what you may want to improve on in the New Year. Looking inward and deciding what your life lacks and then creating a game plan or road map as to how you can achieve the improvement is crucial.

Simply saying “I want to be more fit so I’m going to buy a gym membership” is a sure way to fail. You need to have a proper motive.

As a doctor the most common motive I hear from people is an improved

quality of life.

When you are tired, lack energy, have aches and pains, get home from work and just want to watch TV, wake up with a headache etc. you tend to feel like each day is like the last and that your quality of life is far from ideal.

The question is how do you go about improving your quality of life?

First you need to determine what is creating the problem. Identifying the

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stressors in life is what introspection is for. Introspection is taking time to be with yourself in a quiet environment or at minimum while doing something that brings you joy. In today’s world where everyone is on a phone most of the time the ‘self talk’ in our minds is rampant and the personal issues of everyone in our lives are in our pocket and at our fingertips.

Mental quietness is extremely important to an improved quality of life.

One thing to keep in mind is the problem is never anything or anyone else.

We are responsible for one person ultimately and that is ourselves. Don’t take anything personally, let things go, remember that you are nothing but a spec in the middle of the earth, in the middle of the Milky Way which is one of a billion galaxies.

Your life isn’t so important in the grand scheme of things so don’t take yourself so seriously. The problem is you and the solution is you.

Realize that and you are beginning to identify the primary reason your quality of life is not where you want it to be. Don’t think that this is brash or mean of me to say, it’s simply the truth, you are responsible for your own self and have the power to change anything at any time. That’s an empowering idea if your perspective is changed.

One of the most common reasons people do not add a new healthy habit or change something in life for the better is time.

The lack of time in a world running on time is a major problem for many people.

“I just don’t have time to take care of myself.”

“I have other things that are more important to get to before I can commit time to this.”

These sorts of statements are not uncommon as well as being unfortunate because they speak to the unimportance we place on our own happiness and quality of life.

Let’s say for instance that you want to experience more energy, a better quality of sleep, less aches and pains and an overall better attitude in life.

I tell my patients, you have two options: one, you schedule your health around your life or two, you schedule your life around your care.

It’s about priorities.

If you really truly want to feel better mentally and physically you’d simply do what it takes to achieve that. It’s no more complicated than that! The primary reason people do not get the results they want in life is lack of follow through.

We have all at one time or another been told what needs to be done to achieve a goal, it’s the drive and motivation to reach that goal that dictates the success rate.

Find what motivates you.

Spending more time with people you love, having a better quality of sleep, feeling less pain.

These are just a few examples of what can motivate people to change something in their lives. As a doctor of chiropractic I impact people’s lives on a daily basis. I work with them to identify a problem, explore the reasons the problem is there, come up with a treatment plan to address the problem and regularly reassess to ensure we are staying on the correct path. Approaching other life concerns is not much different and the stressors or concerns in life can be approached the same way.

Quality of life can be improved immediately if you take the actions to improve it. It sounds obvious but most people procrastinate.

Don’t hesitate, life is not waiting and the quality of your life certainly will not change on its own.

My primary goal in practice is not to get rid of pain but to improve the quality of my patient’s lives regularly throughout their lives.

Since stress can never been abolished people continually see me throughout life to say on track.

Maintenance is a habit that brings results over time. If you do not maintain your body it will not be there the way you need it to be in the future. Regular chiropractic checkups are pivotal to a healthy body, without them you are seriously affecting the outcome of your quality of life now and in the future.

See a chiropractor, assess your health, gain some healthy habits and stay on track with them. If you do this you absolutely will feel better, you will have healthier thoughts and your life quality will absolutely improve.

Dr. Chris Senko is the owner of Coates Community Chiropractic in Red Deer.

New Year, New You • Red Deer Express 15

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

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16 Red Deer Express • New Year, New You

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

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