Spring IN THE VALLEY 2015
d Publishe ley l in the Va for
15s
Year
asparagus time
Page 6
incontinence
Page 10
long-term care
Page 16
spring Pet Hazards
Page 22
Paddling perks
Page 24
trail RUNNING
Page 30
www.ComoxValleyHealthAndRecGuide.com
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Table of Contents
Welcome Note Lucky us, the weeds are growing beautifully and the flowers are right behind them. We’re fortunate folk to be 5 living on the Island, the Lotus land of Canada. There is freshness in the air and smiles come readily, especially on days when the sun shines. Spring is about to be sprung. 6 Spring is such a hopeful time, it’s even better than New 7 Year’s Eve when we make temporary resolutions. In spring, the promise of new life and beautiful flowers 8 can give ample encouragement for us to try again, to be kinder to ourselves and to pay more attention to the 10 environment around us.
Laser therapy and sports injuries . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 by Dr. Deidre Macdonald
World Class Sailing Opportunities – Comox . . by Andy Walther
It’s spring – it’s asparagus time! . . . . . . . . . . . . by Christina Willard-Stepan
Country Road Marathon returns to its roots . . in 2015
Quantum Wellness: it’s all about you! . . . . . . . by Karen Holton
Bringing incontinence out of the closet . . . . . by Jane Wareing
Spirituality and Relationship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 by Catherine Dextrase
Maybe something as simple as being aware of what we are doing. Asking ourselves, What do I feel? Is it soft sea air touching our face, or the fog as it circles around us?
Courtenay Recreation switching to city logo . . . . 12 Another method could involve using our eyes, not just to see where we are dashing off to, but to really look at Controlling diabetes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 something to see its beauty and uniqueness. I’m talking with nutrition and exercise about checking out the weeds that are busy taking on life, With trepidation I enter the long-term care facility 16 as they begin another cycle of existence. Asking ‘Where by Wendy Johnstone am I, in my cycle?’ can produce a beautiful calm and Poor posture hurts! ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 sometimes quite a shock when we discover the place isn’t by Sue Bloxsome what we expected it to be. Yoga for pain relief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Whatever you choose, take a moment to become aware
by Lisa Zervakis
by Catherine Reid
of where you are, who you are and how you feel. If you start this now, by summer you will have developed the by Lisa Lundy habit of being conscious — and isn’t life about that, being Spending time in nature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 conscious? Coming out of hibernation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
by Wes Gietz
The hazards the seasons pose to our pets . . . 22
Welcome thoughts by: Phyllis Chubb - www.phyllischubb.com
by Van Isle Veterinary Hospital
Paddling perks and pitfalls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 by Norene Wells
And The Survey Says ….. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
by Dr. Dawn Armstrong
Treating cancer with herbal formulas . . . . . . 28 by Heather Matheson
Trail running tips: trail speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 by Sarah Seads
Front Cover: Sealion Diving at Hornby Island; Picture by: Bill Coltart - Pacific Pro Dive www.pacificprodive.com
~ 2015 SUMMER ISSUE ~
Article submissions on health & recreation in the Comox Valley are required by May 1st, 2015 and ad submissions are required by May 15 th, 2015. Submission Guidelines can be found on our web site. www.comoxhealthandrecguide.com
PUBLISHER : Allan Gear PHONE : 250.339.0252 FAX : 250.339.2210 EMAIL : alg1@telus.net EDITOR : Scott Stanfield LAYOUT : Lenore Lowe Comox Valley Health & Recreation Guide is published 4 times a year. All rights are reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part, without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for, and does not endorse, the contents of any advertisement herein, and all representations or warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not the publisher. The publisher is not liable to any advertiser for any misprint(s) in or about the advertisement that is not the direct fault of the publisher. And, in such an event, the limit of the liability shall not exceed the amount of the publishers charges for such advertising. Articles published in Comox Valley Health & Recreation Guide are not necessarily the opinion of the publisher.
YEARLY SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE ~ $10.00 postage paid
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3
Laser therapy and sports injuries by Dr. Deidre Macdonald, ND
Sports injury rehabilitation is all about getting back in the game quickly and with optimal functioning. Low level laser therapy is a fast, effective tool for the treatment of sports injuries. In the past seven years, I have helped hundreds of athletes and weekend warriors overcome injuries so they can do their rehab exercises and return to the sports they love. Laser therapy is used by professional sports teams and athletes to treat inflammation, provide deep tissue therapy and accelerate pain relief. For the past decade, it has revolutionized treatment in the professional sports world including the NBA, NFL, NHL and USA cycling athletes, as well as Ironman triathlon competitors, college athletes, elite runners and more. So how does low level laser therapy work? It stimulates cellular function at many levels including metabolism; in essence, it promotes the initiation of multiple physiological effects that repair and improve the function of human tissues. Laser therapy is widely used in the medical and cosmetic fields, principally because it is non-destructive to the target tissue, while positively affecting many functions such as collagen formation, cellular metabolism, blood and lymphatic flow.
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CV Health & Recreation Guide
Hundreds of placebo-controlled studies have proven the safety and effectiveness of this physical therapy modality. For instance, tennis elbow completely resolved in 82 per cent of acute cases in a placebo-controlled study in Switzerland. Laser therapy helped 84 per cent of people with chronic carpal tunnel syndrome In a review of five significant studies. Sixteen studies on neck pain showed it to be an effective treatment and an analysis of 36 placebo-controlled studies on knee pain showed it to reduce pain and swelling. In our clinic, 80 per cent of patients with knee pain have significant improvement within four weeks of treatment. Animal studies have shown that laser therapy after tendon surgery results in significantly stronger and more functional tendon healing. Pain is a symptom of injury. Laser therapy doesn’t just mask the symptom, it treats the injury by activating biochemical energy and accelerating the healing process. The end result is the resolution of inflammation and the development of normal, healthy tissue rather than scar tissue. Your pain is alleviated because the injury has improved or been cured. So don’t let injuries keep you out of the game. Get back into your fitness regime with the help of laser therapy. Dr. Deidre Macdonald is a licensed naturopathic physician who has practised medicine in downtown Courtenay since 1997. If you would like to book a complimentary visit to discuss laser therapy, call 250897-0235. www.getwellhere.com.
World Class Sailing Opportunities – Comox, BC If you have ever thought that you would like to become a sailor or improve your sailing skills, there is no better time than now. Spring is around the corner and the Comox Bay Sailing Club is preparing for another great year of both on- and off-water activities. Sailing can be described as a sport, a pastime and even a way of life that continually offers rewards to enthusiasts, regardless of age. Perhaps even more important, it is a family pursuit that can provide a lifetime of enriching experiences for those who choose to get involved. The club exists to promote recreational and competitive sailing in the Comox Valley. Our pristine marine environment is renowned worldwide for its excellent cruising grounds (local waters, Desolation Sound, Discovery Islands, the Broughton Archipelago and the Gulf Islands) and protected harbour which offers fantastic conditions for novice, experienced, recreational and competitive sailors.
Sailing can be enjoyed on any size and cost of boat. A common misconception is that the sport is solely for the affluent. Nothing can be further from the truth. Over the last few a number of keelboats (25’ and over) in good condition have sold in the Valley sell for under $5,000 – not a bad price for a ticket to pristine wilderness only accessible from water – and sailing dinghies are substantially cheaper. Annual moorage and maintenance are also factors to consider, but the costs are not out of reach for most holding down regular jobs.
coaches. Race team members train weekly and participate in regattas around the province. Finally, we offer regularlyscheduled racing for dinghies and keelboats throughout the spring, summer and fall. Anybody can get involved, and we’re pleased to see sailing school attendees continue to participate in dinghy and keelboat racing.
This year is the 50th anniversary of the founding of the club. There is lots going on. We are the host club for the Van Isle 360 International Yacht Race Comox stopover on June 7. If you want to see world class racing machines, come by the government wharf on the afternoon of June 7 and check out the yachts. The club also hosts the Sail West Regatta July 25 and 26. This Sail Canada event will welcome 150 youth competitors from as far as Manitoba for a weekend of quality dinghy racing in the Comox Bay. The event will be preceded by a two-day race training camp and promises to bring lots of sailing excitement to our area.
If interested in getting involved with sailing, the opportunities are on your doorstep. Sometimes, it just takes a single phone call to get involved. If interested in learning more about the club, visit www. comoxbaysailingclub.ca or contact Andy Walther, Commodore at (250) 941-1422 or cbscsailing@gmail.com.
The club offers programs for novice and experienced sailors. A single annual membership costs $130 and offers unlimited access to our fleet of 420 and laser sailing dinghies. Take advantage of our wide range of dinghy and keelboat sailing school programs offered through Courtenay Recreation for dinghy, keelboat sailing and racing classes. These are taught by Sail Canada-certified instructors and have proven to be popular. You can also get involved with the race team run by Sail Canada-certified
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It’s spring – it’s asparagus time! by Christina Willard-Stepan, BEd., Certified Personal and Small Business Coach Asparagus is both a flowering perennial and a nutritious spring vegetable. It is an excellent source of vitamin K and folate. It also contains vitamins A, C, B1, B2, B6, niacin, manganese, potassium, magnesium and selenium. It makes your pee smell funny (ever notice that?). It tastes delicious. It even grows wild here on Tree Island. It’s got it all, really. Here are two of our favourite ways to eat this healthful, springtime vegetable:
Roasted asparagus dressing:
with
4 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil, divided
Coarse salt & freshly-ground pepper to taste 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice 1 tbsp maple syrup
Dash of cayenne pepper Heat oven to 400. In a large baking pan, arrange asparagus in a single layer. Drizzle 2 tbsp. of olive oil over the asparagus and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake until asparagus is tender and lightly-browned, about 10 minutes. Whisk together remaining ingredients into a dressing. Drizzle over asparagus before serving.
Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears:
maple-lemon
1 pound asparagus, rinsed and tough ends discarded
TWO PATIOS
SURROUNDED BY THE BEAUTIFUL SCENERY OF
THE COMOX GOLF CLUB
30 medium-thin asparagus stalks
4 ounces Boursin cheese, softened (I like the garlic and herb one) 1/4 pound thinly-sliced prosciutto
Heat oven to 350. In a bowl mash the Boursin with a fork until it is smooth. Cut one slice of prosciutto lengthwise into one-inch strips and spread each strip with about 1/2 teaspoon Boursin. Wrap each strip in a spiral around an asparagus spear (cheese side in), trimming any excess and ensuring the cheese is ‘sealed in’ with the prosciutto. Repeat until they are all wrapped. Spread prepared spears onto baking sheet. Bake until asparagus is tender and lightly-browned, about 12 minutes. Best served warm. More healthy eating tips, gifts and grocery ideas at www.seedsfoodmarket.com
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Country Road Marathon returns to its roots in 2015 Staying true to its name, the Country Roads Marathon is retuning after a hiatus, taking runners through a rural scenic source offering spectacular views of farmland, the Comox Glacier and the Beaufort Mountain range. “I am very excited to bring back the marathon,” says race director Steven Royer. “I raced it several years and it was one of my favourites with the scenic route, the themed waterstops, and the excitement from the local people and volunteers.” The marathon — which began in 2000 and was last run in 2004 — is a looped course beginning and ending at the Comox Valley Sports Centre, offering both marathon, half marathon and relay (teams of four) distances. This year’s race is set for June 14 at 7 a.m. Funds raised will support Vancouver Island Crisis Society suicide prevention programs. “We decided to use the funds raised by the marathon for suicide awareness, after the running community lost a good friend in 2013 to depression resulting in suicide,” event treasurer Keith Wakelin said. “Upon doing the research, we were astounded by the sheer volume of victims of suicide and wish to bring awareness to help prevent future tragic events.” The course will be re-certified in February as a Boston Marathon qualifying race. The race will support runners with aid stations located approximately every two miles along the course, along with porta potties at each relay transition. Band-Aids and petroleum jelly will be available at water stations and finish lines. Post-race refreshments will be available at the
First Country Roads Marathon in 2000 start and finish. Awards will be presented to first, second and third place finishers in each category. All marathon and relay teams will receive a commemorative souvenir. Results and certificates will be available onsite at the conclusion of the awards ceremony. Early bird pricing is available until March 7. For more info visit www.countryroadsmarathon.com, visit Country Roads Marathon on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @CRoadsMarathon.
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CV Health & Recreation Guide
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Quantum Wellness: it’s all about you! by Karen Holton
The 9 Steps to Quantum Health Transformation include everything you need to know in order to transform your health and life experience into a comprehensive state of wellness. Wellness includes more than physical, mental, spiritual or social aspects. Improving what we eat, drink, do, say, believe and perceive all form complete or quantum wellness — and it all starts with you! I am in the process of completing Quantum Health Transformation — my free, nine-step online video workshop which offers you the same solutions I personally use as I evolve and enjoy the life and health I always wanted (see my ad – I’ve lost 178 pounds). This video series will assist anyone with any health or lifestyle concerns to heal, evolve and thrive. Found at www.karenholtonhealthcoach.com, steps nine through seven give some useful tools for raising self-awareness, and making self-reflection, connection and personal responsibility possible. Real food (fresh, raw, organic, non-GMO and unprocessed) is the quintessential cornerstone of transformative health (see step five). However, steps nine, eight and seven focus on the socio/psychological aspects of wellness. Each step features at least two videos: one is a slideshow primer (providing the details) and the other is a live video (providing examples from my life experience). Step nine focuses on self-awareness, perception and integration. Step eight focuses on
grounding, environmental awareness and identifying core belief systems. Step seven focuses on social awareness, state of being and choosing new belief systems. Steps six, five and four are featured in the summer issue of this magazine. The Step 9 videos put the quantum mechanics Karen Holton component into your lifestyle program. Nubby Ball is a conceptual tool providing insight into the bigger picture as you step away from emotionalism and into the clearer spaces of logic and accountability. By overcoming our binary programming, and our black/white, positive/negative world view, we can see things as truly complex and dynamic. Nubby Ball helps us to understand the social issues that cause us discomfort and assists us to reconcile cognitive dissonance. The Step 8 videos offer an easy program of daily practice to soothe the mind, body and soul to feel securely grounded. They also give practical tips to start recognizing and changing belief patterns to make way for quantum recovery and personal evolution. The Step 8 live action video was shot at Goose Spit in Comox. Once your core belief systems are identified in step eight, it’s time to develop them further with step seven. These videos are designed to assist with quantum wellbeing by expanding awareness of gender, and provide a simple process for incorporating the best traits, which are socially/culturally associated with being male or
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CV Health & Recreation Guide
female, into our own unique way of being. The Step nine to seven videos were created before my website; they are conveniently featured under the Transformation Videos tab. Once you have watched my videos, feel free to choose the step you feel will be the most useful. Call or email me for a customized lifestyle program. Contact me through my website. As described in my nine-step video series: food, chemicals in our environment, what we think about and believe, and our daily practices all affect our biochemistry and thus our mental and physical health. Discover how mental and physical symptoms can be eliminated or reduced by correcting the imbalances and influences in your life and environment. As we bring enjoyable, healthful practices into our life, the old negative, self-defeating habits fall away automatically. I would love to support you through your journey of selfdiscovery and recovery. My website delivers everything you need to transform your life and become the healthiest, happiest you possible. You will also find an expanding selection of products to help get started, and a full range of public and personal services. Subscribe to my blog and You Tube channel, and you will be well on your way to your own quantum health transformation. Life is good! Karen Holton BSW, health coach. (250) 871-1722 or vials@shaw.ca.
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Automotive Service: 250-338-6553 CV Health & Recreation Guide
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Bringing incontinence out of the closet by Jane Wareing
I laughed so hard, the tears ran down my legs! That’s a joke a friend of mine saw posted in a hospital elevator last fall. Obviously, it struck a note with many of its viewers. Incontinence is often joked about, but most of us find it rather embarrassing to discuss. That’s changing though. The Canadian Continence Foundation recently released two reports with stunning statistics that may or may not surprise you. Depending on our age, gender, activity levels, and most importantly, the way questions are worded, incontinence affects or has affected up to 50 per cent of the population surveyed in Canada. Indeed, a 2008 Italian study of female competitive athletes with a mean age of 36 years revealed that a significant number of them either stopped practising or changed the way they played because of incontinence episodes. There are five different types of urinary incontinence, and not enough room in this article to discuss them all, but the most common is Stress Incontinence (S.U.I.), which affects about 20 per cent of women of all ages. If coughing, laughing, sneezing or physical movements
cause you a bit of urine leakage, you may have Stress Incontinence. It’s not an uncommon condition in women whose pelvic floor muscles have been weakened by pregnancy, hormonal changes or high-impact sports such as gymnastics or running. Needless to say, a lot of Comox Valley women are affected by S.U.I. Often, daily Kegel exercises can prevent or control Stress Incontinence. The trick is knowing exactly where your pelvic floor muscles are, and how to practice contracting them. Sometimes these muscles become so weakened that a woman can no longer feel them, making it an extra challenge to get them working again. Ask your doctor to refer you to a physiotherapist who has special training in treating women with incontinence. She can help you learn to identify and exercise pelvic floor muscles. There are also a couple of different medical-grade products clinically proven to help build pelvic floor strength. Pelvic cones (such as Lady System) are smooth weighted cones, and using them while doing Kegels is a kind of a weight-lifting Continued on Page 13...
For active women who want to control or prevent Stress Incontinence
®
10 CV Health & Recreation Guide
204-1530 Cliffe Ave, Courtenay Tel: 250.338.5665 www.livingrx.ca
Spirituality and relationship by Catherine Dextrase
We all have a need for deeper meaning in our lives. Meaningful connections in life start within each and every one of us. So how do we develop a deeper relationship with ourselves, and where is the link between that deeper relationship and spirituality? Spirituality can be defined as: The experience or expression of the sacred. The sacred often brings up images that are attached to specific religions as things that are especially divine or holy. What do you hold as sacred or spiritual in your mind or your heart? I do understand that if it can’t be found on Netflix that it may just not exist anymore, so how are we to start looking for what we hold as sacred or spiritual? Through reflection, mindfulness or meditation (which can be recognized as prayer) we can cultivate a deeper relationship with ourselves and the world. To enjoy this journey there must be time and space in our lives for that which is sacred to us. It can start with as little as five minutes a day. Even at red lights, waiting in line at the store. In lieu of pulling your smart phone out of your pocket to text someone, take a moment to take a breath and reach out or in to connect. Hold the intention to deepen your experience in this lifetime and connect to this amazing, divine universe we live in! As with any relationship, it takes time and mindful practice. In the age of technology where every answer can be found in under a minute by simply asking Siri or Google, we have a lot of impatience and expect quick answers. Sages of the past and present understand that time must be taken to understand without demand for instant gratification. Einstein was an interesting, bright light of the past who recognized that we need to follow our intuitive senses and our spirit. One of my favourite quotes from him is: The intuitive mind is a
sacred gift and the rational mind is a faithful servant. We have created a society that honours the servant and has forgotten the gift. If our intuition can be seen as sacred, it starts to hit home that our relationship with ourselves is a doorway to exploring the spiritual. Our soul, our spirit, our heart’s path and purpose in this life are all part of this picture. When we start to explore and look for meaningful experience in life, we expand the potential, and connect more with our own spirit and purpose. We are in constant communication with everything around us, be it a conscious or unconscious relationship. Every living thing has a spirit, and we coexist with all living beings in our environment. When we can bring all of our relationships to a more conscious, mindful level we open doors to the spiritual part of our lives that we may have been missing out on. Catherine Dextrase offers Cranio Sacral Therapy at Rasa Centre for the Healing Arts: #5-145 19th St. Courtenay, 250-702-2080. http://www.catherinedextrase.com
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Courtenay Recreation switching to city logo Courtenay Recreation is saying goodbye to its old logo, but in its place it will be using an even more familiar symbol. The popular recreation provider is a department of the City of Courtenay, but until now it has always maintained a separate identity. Starting this month, it’s going to begin the process of transitioning from its own logo to using the City of Courtenay’s official crest. Susan Murphy, manager of recreation services, said
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12 CV Health & Recreation Guide
the transition will help standardize communication materials for the City, and reflects the important role the recreation department plays in the organization.
“We’ve been a part of the City since 1996, but until now we’ve always had a separate logo,” Murphy said. “We think this change will more clearly define our role within the City, and minimize confusion – particularly for newcomers. We’re proud to be part of the City of Courtenay, and this change reflects that.”
The old Courtenay Recreation disappear overnight, however.
logo
won’t
“This is going to be a gradual transition,” noted Murphy. “We’ll begin using the City crest on advertising and other new publications, and slowly phase it in elsewhere as our old communication materials get used up.”
Courtenay Recreation includes programs for all ages at the Lewis Centre, Florence Filberg Centre, Native Sons Hall and the LINC Youth Centre (temporarily closed for repair due to flooding). They also offer facility rentals and parks bookings for many types of events both large and small. For information on programs and services, visit www.courtenay.ca/rec. Call the Lewis Centre at 250-338-5371 and the Filberg Centre at 250-338-1000
Jane Wareing’s article continued from pg 10... program for the pelvic floor muscles. The IncoStress device is easier to use for women with weaker pelvic floor muscles, and it can be worn for several hours to support the bladder neck, and help a woman identify and feel her Kegel contractions. Improving pelvic muscle tone with Kegel exercise needs to be a life-long habit in order to control or avoid stress incontinence. Although that may sound tedious, the benefit is that many women notice an increased sexual sensitivity thanks to regular pelvic floor exercise program!
ANNE LAI LPN Foot Care Nurse In Home Nursing Foot Care phone 897-2538 T: 250.897.2538 email - alai28@telus.net
For more information about helping to reduce incontinence challenges, Jane Wareing can be reached at Living Room Pharmacy: www.livingroompharmacy.ca
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BLUE CIRCLE SERIES
Other types and combinations of incontinence are experienced by millions more Canadian men and women. What to do? First, realize that you’re not alone. Second, take a look at some excellent websites that provide useful information: www. canadiancontinence.ca and www.cnca.ca are good places to start. Finally, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or a physiotherapist who specializes in continence control. This is not a rare problem in the Comox Valley, and there are people who want to help.
Mattina Musica feat. Bergmann Piano Duo March 9 The Acoustical Sounds of Big Sugar March 10 Radical Reels Tour March 14 BICKLE THEATRE ORIGINAL: Some Like It Hot March 22 - admission by donation. AMADEUS: Dances With Wolfgang March 27 Brendan McLeod & The Fugitives May 8 www.sidwilliamstheatre.com/bluecircle 250.338.2430 ext 1 442 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay, BC
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Nutrition and exercise to control diabetes Controlling diabetes is closely linked to diet and lifestyle.
Exercising
• Exercise usually lowers blood sugar. It can help insulin work more effectively and improve your health and energy. • Ask your doctor about the right kind of exercise for you. Get a check-up if you’re starting out, and avoid overdoing it. Gradually increasing your levels of physical activity helps prevent injuries while maintaining your enthusiasm to continue exercising. • Check blood sugar levels before and after you exercise. This helps avoid low blood sugar. Monitoring your blood sugar can help determine how different types of activities affect sugar levels. • Exercise one to three hours after a meal. If you take insulin, avoid exercising immediately after an injection or if you have not eaten for several hours.
Comox Recreation COME PLAY WITH US!
Making fitness happen
in our Award Winning Fitness Studio
Stock photo from Metro • Try walking, swimming, and light weight-lifting exercises for physical activity
Healthy Eating
• S mart food choices help keep blood sugar, weight, and cholesterol in better control. Focus on fewer calories, and eat less fat (especially saturated fat). Enjoy more fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, and legumes instead. • The amounts of fat, carbohydrate (fruits, vegetables, breads and grains) and protein (meat, fish, milk, nuts) you eat depend on your calorie needs and goals for weight control. A healthy diet usually includes 10-20% of daily calories from protein, 30% or less from fat, and the rest from carbohydrates. • Always read the labels before trying “low fat,” “light,” or “no fat” foods. Some of these specially-labelled foods are “dietetic” because they’re sugar free. Others are lower in calories. Some mention that they’re good for people with diabetes. But many diet foods that use sugar substitutes are high in fat and calories. Words like “light” or “low” can be deceptive. Try to read the fine print!
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Stock photo from Metro • Just one alcoholic beverage on an empty stomach can lower your blood sugar drastically. Sip drinks slowly and always drink alcohol with food in your stomach. Limit yourself to no more that two drinks a day and avoid brandy, port, and liqueurs, which have high sugar content. • Enjoy sweets in moderation: People with diabetes don’t have to avoid sugar all together. You can still enjoy a cookie, a piece of cake, or chocolate every now and then. Talk to your health care professional about how to safely incorporate sweets into your diet.
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Matters of Aging With trepidation, I enter the long-term care facility. by Wendy Johnstone Bounding up a flight of stairs, I pause before opening the door to the second floor.
The pause is two-fold. I need to search my memory bank for the code to enter the special care unit and secondly, to take a deep breath as I prepare myself emotionally for what’s coming next.
Entering the room, I scan the sea of faces and the geri-chairs. A familiar voice cries out, “I know you!” Holding back tears, I smile and walk towards the voice. The frail elderly woman starts clapping her hands excitedly and repeats, “I know you and you know me!” “Hi nana. It’s Wendy, your granddaughter.”
She opens her arms and she takes me in for a hug, each of us holding on tight. “Where are you?” she asks.
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I know what she really means is where do I live now. Well into the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease, she isn’t able to find the right words to express herself. “I live in British Columbia. I go to school there. Your brother, Harvey, sends his love.
She smiles, claps and says again, “I know you and you know me!”
Images of the vibrant, articulate and elegant woman who once modelled for Eaton’s in the 1940s cloud my thoughts. Sadness creeps in as I reminisce about our special relationship, her love of quotations, her beautiful penmanship and her fondness for all of her grandchildren. Guilty thoughts of not visiting more frequently with my nana follow, knowing my current visit was likely my last. Loss and grief are part of the daily experience of those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s. Anticipatory grief refers to the process where we begin to mourn past, present and future losses. Caregivers can experience a continuous and pro-
found sense of grief, one that intensifies as their loved one’s symptoms increase.
Ambiguous loss is described as confusing feelings that caregivers have when they interact with their loved ones with dementia. It is very difficult seeing a person you love be physically alive and yet they are limited in their mental or social abilities. For many, the loss of their loved one’s identity can be overwhelming and sad.
My mom once said to me, “I see and care for my mom every day, but on most days, all I see is her shell. My real mother is gone, and I know she’s never coming back. It breaks my heart.”
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As the dementia progresses, some caregivers feel as though they’ve entered a chronic state of grief and depression and can be affected by a decline in their own health status. While both anticipatory grief and ambiguous loss are normal and common, there doesn’t seem to be an easy solution.
My mom recalls how she tried to best deal with her range of emotions: “I had to let go of the guilt of feeling as though I could have or should have done more for my mom.” Other caregivers suggest the following: • Accept and acknowledge your feelings • Keep living by doing things that you enjoy • Find support: be it through community sup port groups, one-to-one counseling, on-line or education sessions • Find ways to decrease stress – exercise, relaxation, journaling, meditation For more information and resources, visit www. alzheimer.ca.
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Matters of Aging Cont...
Poor posture hurts! by Sue Bloxsome, physiotherapist
Do you suffer from neck pain and headaches? Paying attention to posture may be all you need to reduce or eliminate pain. Your head weighs about 10 pounds. When you are in good posture the head is perfectly balanced on your spine and does not feel heavy. But for every inch that your head comes forward it feels as if it’s 10 pounds heavier. This puts stress on neck muscles and joints that will eventually lead to neck pain that can radiate to the head or down between the shoulder blades. It can also cause light-headedness or dizziness. Jaw problems can also be caused or aggravated by poor posture. We almost all adopt a ‘head forward posture’ at times. For example, sitting at the computer, engrossed in what
you are doing, you find your head coming closer to the screen, you tilt your chin up to see better through the right part of your glasses. This is a head forward posture. To check posture, have someone look at you from the side. Your ear should be lined over your shoulder, not in front of it. Or stand with your back to a wall. Ideally, the back of your head should be touching the wall with your eyes looking straight ahead. If you are younger, you can probably easily achieve these positions even if you don’t always sit or stand with good posture. For older people who have developed rounding of the upper back it may be impossible to achieve a perfect position. But don’t worry, just being aware and correcting your position as much as possible will help. Here are some tips to prevent or relieve neck pain, headaches and back pain: • When working on the computer use a good chair with support behind the low back. Ensure the computer is the right height so you are looking straight at the screen without tilting your head forward or back. • Treat laptop computers like a desk top. Don’t use them on your lap or curled up on your bed.
• When sitting for long periods get up regularly, at least every 30 minutes.
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• Take mini breaks at the computer or when reading. Turn your head, tilt it from side to side, roll your shoulders, stretch your arms above your head. Try to move around a lot. Sitting in one position is hard on the body. • If watching TV or talking to someone, ensure you are looking straight ahead and not spending long Continued on Page 31...
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Yoga for pain relief by Catherine Reid
Worldwide, one in every five adults suffers from chronic pain. If you’ve ever been in pain for more than a week or so, you know how debilitating it can be. Even small activities become a challenge. By the end of the day you feel worn out. Pain relief medication helps, but could have deleterious effects over the long term. Some healing modalities, such as acupuncture or massage, may provide relief. Perhaps less well known, though, is that the right kind of yoga can also help reduce or eliminate pain. Studies have found yoga and meditation can reduce back pain, as well as that of arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia and other conditions. Simply learning deep breathing techniques in a gentle yoga class will induce relaxation and release endorphins — the body’s own painkillers. Additionally, yoga’s mindfulness practices help reduce emotional distress associated with pain. This in itself can change how pain is perceived. As yoga also helps participants become more selfaware, they begin to notice smaller sensations and learn to move with conscious intention. This alone can improve well-being. Often at the end of class, a participant will remark that their headache disappeared, or that their back pain improved. Just the simple act of attending a yoga class for an hour or two sends a signal to the body that it’s OK to rest, it’s OK to breathe slower, and it’s OK to let go of timelines and pressures of daily life. Tension begins to melt out of tight muscles, and the resulting relaxation can last for hours. Smiling is a common side effect. If you’re dealing with chronic pain and have tried
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everything except yoga, consider finding a gentle class. If your pain is interfering with daily activities, it might work better to start with one-on-one therapeutic yoga sessions. Therapeutic yoga uses techniques that would take place in a regular yoga class, such as deep relaxation, simple poses, breath work and support from specialized materials. But unlike a yoga class, it takes place as a private session, tailored to individual needs. You’ll experience improvements in the quality and capacity of breathing, and you’ll learn how to manage stress. One-on-one sessions will help manage your condition, reduce symptoms, restore balance and increase vitality. You’ll be given things to practice at home as you learn to form new habits of breath, movement and body awareness. The results may be a pleasant surprise. Catherine Reid is a registered yoga teacher, offering classes and private sessions in the Comox Valley. Contact her at 250-898-8414 or visit www. catherinereid.ca
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Coming out of hibernation by Dr. Lisa Lundy
Chinese Medicine is most effective at detecting imbalance before it becomes illness. Through assessment of tongue, pulse and physical presentation, the body is evaluated to see which organ systems are thriving and which may need extra support. As we climb out of hibernation and move into spring activities it is common in clinics to see a deluge of back or neck spasms at this time of year. Often people have jumped into activities with a little more enthusiasm than their body is ready for, but it can also be because the organs of the body require more support in order to function at their best. Diet, acupuncture and herbal support can be of great assistance, and lifestyle is key.
In the system of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) each season corresponds with different organ systems. Winter spotlights the kidney and bladder systems which are said to be the pillar of energy on which all other organ systems depend. Kidney energy is valued for its influence on birth, growth, reproduction and development. It is also responsible for produc-
ing marrow and the health and well-being of the brain and bones, and managing water in the body. Kidney energy is also recognized for its influence on the health of ears and hair, and is emotionally connected to our will. Issues that can arise from a weakened kidney system include difficulties with fertility or development, low back pain, knee problems, difficulties with memory or concentration, urinary or sexual dysfunction, hearing issues, hair loss and depression. Winter months use kidney energy. As we are in the last few weeks of winter, many of these parts can begin to feel challenged. Supporting this organ system with warming strengthening foods such as root vegetables, soups and stews and minimizing excesses of cold raw foods is important. In situations where the organ is imbalanced, herbs and acupuncture can make a huge difference in the way this system comes out of winter. Spring showcases the liver and gallbladder, recognized for their influence on blood storage and regulation of blood volume according to physical activity, and regulating the flow of Qi throughout our body. Healthy blood regulation will allow the sinews (muscles, tendons and ligaments) to be nourished and consequently allow for smooth movement of joints and healthy muscle action. The liver and gallbladder influence digestion, nail health, vision and eye health, and our mental and emotional states. If there is an imbalance in one of these organs it can quickly contribute to health issues such as belching, indigestion, nausea, muscle spasms or fatigue, joint pain, visual issues and eye irritations, menstrual and hormonal irregularities, as well as frustration, anger, anxiety and agitation. Easing into spring with a slow, steady transition is important. Continued on Page 29...
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Spending time in nature: getting past the wall of green by Wes Gietz
I’d been still, close to motionless, for about half an hour, facing into the bush past the deer fence that goes south to north across the back of my property. There used to be a brush pile at the fence, but I cleared that out a couple of years ago to create a path for myself along the fence to the corner where my yard meets three others. I was sitting on a closed-cell foam pad on a short stump, leaning against a cottonwood tree, enjoying the near-stillness and the warmth of a pleasant August day. I had my camera with me this day, hoping I might see birds close by and have a chance for a good photo. I hadn’t heard anything except the traffic on the street out front and a few birds, and I was aware that deer had come into the yard behind me.
Nothing moving nearby – but then, a flicker of motion to my left. I swivelled my eyes toward the motion, keeping my head still, and saw a fawn stepping playfully high, ears twitching, five metres away and moving toward me on the path between the piled brush and the fence. My first thought was to press the button to start the camera, but at this distance the motor of the camera would have been clearly audible. I froze. The fawn, a beautiful, gentle little deer still wearing its spots, walked toward me. Part of me noted that the movement of the air was from my left – good. For the moment, I was downwind. Half a metre from my left shoe, the fawn stopped suddenly. Its head came up, and it looked straight at me. No, it was looking past me, at something in the yard behind me. It held that position for a moment then turned and walked calmly past, nearly brushing my knee. Calmly, that is, until it was about a metre past me, then it snorted Whoof, went straight up and came down running.
I didn’t move except for a big grin. The fawn ran 15 metres into the brush at the back of the neighbour’s yard and stopped to look back, then walked away. The three other deer it had been looking at were also spooked some. They walked off the lawn into the bush, and in a few minutes all of them were gone off into the neighbourhood. I knew that fawn since it was born. It may have been the one I took a picture of when it was one day
old, and its mother had put it down in the open grass that was behind me at my sit spot. There were three of them that spring, two from one doe and one from another. They have been frequent visitors to our yard, and they’ve worn trails across our yard and through the neighbour yards as well.
We live in a town, in an area where the houses are from 15 to 50 years old. There are firs, cottonwoods, alders, fruit trees, shrubs, flower gardens, vegetable gardens, dogs, buses, cars, bicycles, pedestrians and so on. All the trappings of urban life. We also have deer, raccoons, roof rats, squirrels, eagles, hawks, owls, gulls and a huge variety of small birds. Lots to hear, see, feel and smell.
You may have more or less than this, in a setting that is less wild or more wild, near water or not. What do you do with it? Do you know it as a friend? Would you like to?
In getting to know your area, you will get to know yourself, to stretch yourself and to have some great moments. I’ve had five birds land on me at different times, and though I never startled poop out of any of them, I wrote a song called Bird Poop On Your Hat. Continued on Page 29...
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Season changes and the hazards it poses to our pets by Van Isle Veterinary Hospital
Spring is just around the corner. With days getting longer and weather getting warmer, it’s time to get out and enjoy some much needed sun. Chances are, your pooch has put on a little extra weight this winter, and he may not be the only one. Before heading out to explore with your companion, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with some of the seasonal hazards that come into effect this time of year.
Outdoor Hazards
Just like people, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies caused by plants and pollens of springtime. We often see sneezing, running nose and goopy eyes. If you suspect your pet is suffering from springtime allergies, contact your veterinarian for advice.
With all the beautiful spring flowers in bloom, people are anxious to get outside and start working in the garden. However, insecticides, herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers used to revitalize lawns and gardens are full of chemicals that are dangerous for your pet. Take care not to allow your dog or cat access to areas where chemicals have been applied. Be sure to store potentially toxic products out of reach. Warmer weather also brings parasites out of
hibernation. Our mild winters are not cold enough to kill off many worms and parasites. Come springtime, they may resume their lifecycle. Certain types of intestinal worms are zoonotic, meaning they can be passed from pets to humans, particularly children since they tend to spend more time low to the ground. Contact your veterinarian to discuss what kinds of parasite preventives your pets need to keep them free of fleas, ticks and intestinal parasites throughout the spring and summer months.
Like many humans, pets tend to be less active in winter. Getting back outdoors in warm weather feels great, but be sure to start slow and help your pet rebuild muscle tone before he’s allowed to engage in strenuous outdoor activities such as swimming or mountain biking. We often see pets for “weekend warrior” injuries from doing too much, too soon; so remember to take it slow and exercise common sense. This is especially true for our senior companions.
Easter Hazards
Easter lilies are beautiful and festive, but should be avoided at all costs if you have cats in the home. Cats who take a bite of the flower can become ill and even die from acute kidney failure in less than two days if left untreated. Early signs of kidney failure are vomiting, lethargy and loss of appetite. For safety reasons cat owners should never keep lilies in their homes; instead try faux lilies for the same look without the risk. Most people are aware that chocolate is harmful to pets, but many dogs have a great nose and a determination to sniff out hidden chocolate bunnies.
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22 CV Health & Recreation Guide
Toxic ingredients in chocolate are theobromine and caffeine. The level of toxicity is based on the type and quantity of chocolate consumed, with dark chocolate being the most deadly. Early clinical signs of chocolate toxicity are vomiting, diarrhea and trembling. Easter decorations can also pose a hazard to pets. Plastic, sparkly, crinkly, artificial grass used to line Easter baskets can be irresistible for our feline companions. However, serious intestinal damage and possible obstruction can occur if ingested. You should also keep ribbons, bows and other colorful decorations out of your pet’s reach. In most cases, prevention and knowing what to watch for is the best medicine. Whether it is seasonal allergies, parasites, overexertion or ingestion, your veterinarian is there to help and advise. With these safety tips in mind, spring is a wonderful time of year, and the warmer weather should be enjoyed by pets and their owners alike. Now that you know what to watch for, get out there and explore with your companion at your side!
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Paddling perks and pitfalls by Norene Wells There could be no better or safer waters than the Comox Valley to learn or practice kayaking or canoeing. With ocean, lakes and rivers and an abundance of wildlife, there is every opportunity to experience and enjoy nature and fitness through paddling. Under the umbrella of local instructors, kayak/canoe shops, Comox and Courtenay Recreation programs or local paddlers club, anyone can enjoy and benefit from this sport. Canoeing and kayaking are low impact activities that can improve health and fitness. They can be done as a hobby, a competitive sport or as a fun activity on holidays. Health benefits include improved cardiovascular fitness and increased muscle strength, particularly in the back, arms, shoulders and chest. The website, Better Health Channel, notes that kayaking can elevate cardiovascular health and strengthen a number of major muscle groups throughout the body. While kayaking provides a challenging upper-body workout, it’s also suitable for the lower body. Paddling results in increased torso and leg strength, as the strength to power a canoe or kayak comes mainly from rotating the torso and applying pressure with the legs. It’s possible to navigate a boat through leg movements, which keeps the entire body active during the activity. As well, paddling has a reduced risk of wear-and-tear on joints and tissues.
Paddling provides an aerobic workout, which should be a key part of a weekly fitness routine. In general, aerobic exercise increases endurance, improves heart health, better regulates cholesterol levels, controls blood sugar, lowers blood pressure and strengthens lungs. Paddling provides an overall health benefit with improved strength inside and out.
Many people seek exercises that can burn enough
Photo submitted by Norene Wells
calories to aid in weight loss. If you have access to a kayak, the proper equipment and a body of water, this activity can play a role as you burn fat to build a slimmer physique. Harvard Health Publications reports that in 30 minutes of kayaking, a 185-pound person burns about 222 calories. This calorie burn is lower than many forms of exercise, but over the course of a long excursion, it’s easy to burn more than 1,000 calories.
Canoeing and kayaking are outdoor activities that can be enjoyed by people of all levels of fitness, but injuries can occur if skills and equipment are insufficient. Paddling injuries can include strains, sprains, impact injuries, sunburn, heat stress, dehydration, hypothermia or drowning. Preparation, common sense and proper equipment can minimize risks and help to avoid potential hazards.
Types of injuries associated with canoeing and kayaking include:
• Shoulder – muscular force required to push a paddle through water can cause a strain or sprain. Surf landings where the paddle catches the beach are a
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specific risk to the shoulder joint. • Wrist – the repetitive motion of moving a paddle can, over time, lead to overuse injuries of wrist joints. • Impact injuries – for example, a person who has fallen into water risks being hit by the boat or another object such as a floating log. • Heat stress or dehydration – canoeing and kayaking often take place in summer or on open water, where shade is scarce and sun exposure can be extreme. • Sunburn – overexposure to sun can cause sunburn and skin damage. Reflected radiation from water can increase levels of ultraviolet (UV) exposure. • Hypothermia – falling into cold water when not wearing a wet suit can cause hypothermia, a dangerous and potentially fatal drop in body temperature. • Drowning – while this risk is always present with any water-based activity, statistically, deaths from paddling activities are not common.
white water rapids or sea surf, sprint racing or competing in marathons. Competition and specialized activities such as sea kayaking or white water canoeing or kayaking provide a more challenging experience and may require particular equipment, skills and experience. Ensure preparation is adequate for the planned activity.
General health and fitness suggestions: • Exercise regularly.
• Warm up before activity. Include slow, sustained stretches. continued on page 27...
Don McRae, M.L.A. (Comox Valley)
Some factors that can increase risk of injury include:
CVHRG
• Inexperience – beginners may be more prone to injury because they do not have the skills or technique to meet the demands of the sport. • Lack of proper technique – holding or moving the body incorrectly can put unnecessary strain on joints, muscles and ligaments. • Failure to wear protective equipment such as life jackets or personal flotation devices (PFD). The law requires that life jackets are always worn when paddling. Helmets should be worn when on rapids. • Overtraining – training too much and too often can lead to a range of overuse injuries, particularly those of the wrist and shoulder. • Choosing an inappropriate waterway – accidents and injuries are more likely to happen if attempting to canoe or kayak in a waterway beyond your skill level or for which you are ill-equipped. Canoeing and kayaking can include a range of activities such as paddling on rivers or lakes to enjoy the view, battling
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And The Survey Says… by Dr. Dawn Armstrong, B.Sc.,D.C
Surveys say that 70 per cent of Canadian adults have experienced shoulder, upper back or lower back pain during the past two years. That’s nearly three out of every four of us! So, back pain is common. But, unlike the common cold, common back pain is potentially disabling and a source of significant suffering. It is the second most common reason for people to use our health care services (only respiratory disorders are more frequent). In the 30-50 age group, common back pain takes first place when it comes to causing lost work and lasting disability. We should be clear on what we mean by “common” back pain because, most certainly, back pain can sometimes be a sign of something much more serious. Fortunately, 90 per cent of back pain is due to functional problems – sprains, strains, joint restrictions, muscle weaknesses and trigger points, and, of course, all the ‘itises:’ bursitis, tendonitis, arthritis. Fewer than one-tenth of cases are because of serious disease, tumours, fractures, infections, disc herniations, etc. Only a health care professional with the title of doctor — medicine, chiropractic, naturopathy, TCM — has the training and qualifications to provide a clear diagnosis for individual patients. Treatment plans often involve the expertise of various other professional therapists. Over the years there has been much attention given to classifying back pain as acute (less than two weeks), sub-acute (two to six weeks) or chronic (greater than six weeks, or 12 weeks, or six months – depending on who you ask). The truth is that for most back pain sufferers the experience plays out over many years with a messy and unpredictable pattern of recurring periods of pain and disability interspersed with sometimes lengthy intervals of relative wellness.
No matter how we might label it — acute or chronic or recurrent — back pain costs us plenty on both a personal and societal level. There’s not just the costs of diagnosis and treatment but the cost of lost productivity, lost jobs and lost opportunities. Back pain is a big, expensive problem and the issue has been worsened by the fact that for a long time, in medical circles, it has been widely – and falsely — believed that when it comes to common back pain, no matter what you do it will recover on its own with rest and time. Medication can relieve the pain, inflammation and muscle spasms while you wait it out. This myth of the natural remission of common back pain came about from a single study done in one medical practice in the UK in 1973. Recovery was judged on whether or not patients made subsequent appointments with the doctor, not on whether they actually got better. More recent investigations have revealed that when patients are followed up by researchers, of those who were disabled by pain at the first visit, less than one in five had fully recovered after one year. And, it turns out that the strongest risk factor for a new episode of back pain is a history of previous episodes of back pain. Prolonged rest (more than a few days) is now known to be harmful, both physically and psychologically. Overreliance on drugs has created its own problems with abuse and organ damage. International guidelines on best practices for care for back pain from countries like Denmark, the UK and the U.S. consistently recommend spinal manipulation, exercise and a focus on getting back to daily activities as quickly as possible. The Environics Research Group has examined the extent to which Canadians experience back pain, the actions they take to relieve their suffering and the levels of satisfaction with their treatment. Their findings indicated a higher patient satisfaction level for chiropractic care than any other treatment approach. More than two-thirds of people (69 per cent) were “very satisfied.” This compares with less than half “very satisfied” with medical and/or physiotherapy care (43 per cent) or use of prescription drugs (35 per cent). Canadians are increasingly choosing and preferring chiropractic care for the common complaint of back pain. The chiropractic approach is effective, affordable and safe. Make it your first choice for care and we can help you take better care of yourself. Dr. Dawn Armstrong can be reached at (250) 465-8482.
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Norene Wells’ article continued from pg 25... • Cool down after activity. Include stretching. • Dress for the conditions. A wet suit, dry suit or thermal clothing can protect against the cold, while a loose, light-coloured, long-sleeved shirt and hat protect against heat stress and sun exposure. Wear layers of clothing that can be removed one at a time when necessary. • Apply 30+ SPF sunscreen to exposed areas of skin. • Avoid dehydration. Take plenty of water to drink before, during and after activity. • Don’t go on the water if you’ve been drinking alcohol. Kevin Lewis is a local white water kayaker, enjoying both river and surf year-round. Sponsored by local businesses and the Vancouver Island Whitewater Paddling Association, he competed in 18-foot waves in California in the 2008 World Cup. In 2007 at the world championship in Spain, he performed the first aerial loop in a kayak. He says he used to “hit the gym for years” but prefers kayaking as the “best core workout possible.” His playboat has handled two- to 20-foot waves. “How extreme you play depends on how far you want to take it,” Lewis said. “It’s a very extreme sport without extreme danger. You wipe out in your kayak? Hold your breath. Relax. Roll. Nothing breaks.” Kayaking and canoeing can be exhilarating or peaceful and meditative, depending on where and how it’s done. Exercises such as kayaking play an integral role in the improvement of mental health. Aerobic exercise, notes Harvard Health Publications, triggers the release of brain chemicals that can improve your mood. If depressed, stressed or need to clear your mind, paddling a kayak can provide a relaxing workout. In addition to a feeling of freedom on the water and even joy, the physical benefits can lead to higher self-esteem. Owner of Westcoast Expeditions, Dave PInel is lead instructor at North Island College in the Adventure Guide Training program. He says using a kayak as a tool to engage
Dr. Dawn Armstrong, B.Sc., D.C.
with wilderness and interact with space and place results in physical and psychological benefits. Many experienced kayakers can attest to the fact that besides building a fitter body, kayaking can contribute to having a clear, happy mind. Local “When you are on the water, where are you? Right there,” white water and sea kayak paddler Pete Laird says as he points to his chest. “Centred, within yourself. And when the water is rough you are focussed. Present.” Paddling is a great way to enjoy waterways and elevate fitness to a new level. Learn how to paddle from experienced teachers. Join the Comox Valley Paddlers Club for guidance on where and how to begin. The club does not teach lessons but can direct you to avenues to participate while providing a social experience. All levels of paddler are welcome. The club runs year-round with meetings on the first Thursday of each month in winter. The paddle season consists of weekly social paddles, day trips and longer expeditions.
Gracious Bodytherapy Learn to Live More Comfortably
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27
Treating cancer with herbal formulas by Dr. Heather Matheson
Eastern Currents, a local herbal company, has asked what my favourite golden flower herbal formula is and why. There are many, it is tough to choose just one, the herbal formulas give me so many more tools in my tool box. If I am forced to choose one, Blood Palace (Xue Fu Zhu Yu Tang) would have to be it and here is just one example of why. Robyn, owner of Best Paw Forward Dog Training in Nanaimo, is a truly exceptional person and does amazing work. Her ‘right paw’ is Rudy, a 12-yearold Miniature Schnauzer. Rudy is a demo dog for Robyn’s classes, shows tricks, demonstrates training and works in her first aid classes – a huge
Empowering women with the tools and wisdom to heal their life on all levels For appointments: info@flourishbodytalk.com 250-650-0501
Fiona Black
www.flourishbodytalk.com
BSc Physiotherapy
Certified Pilates Teacher Certified BodyTalk Practitioner
In August, 2011, Rudy was diagnosed with lung cancer. A five-centimetre round bronchial adenocarcinoma was surgically removed along with Rudy’s left middle lung lobe. Rudy recovered although the prognosis was guarded. In December, 2012 Rudy’s cancer resurfaced, X-rays showed four tumours in his lungs varying from one cm to 2.5cm. Surgery was not an option and the prognosis poor. Blood Palace was started at a dose of half a tablet three times daily. Rudy is not only still with us but has excellent quality of life. He still does his jobs on a daily basis, the biggest and most important job being Robyn’s best friend. He coughs occasionally but still goes on walks and has a smile on his face. That is 3 ½ half years and counting Blood Palace has given Rudy and Robyn. That is pretty darn amazing! Dr. Heather Matheson is the owner of Balanced Paws Veterinary Care: info@balancedpawsvet.com (250) 871-4355.
Dragon Boat Team
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BSc Physiotherapy
Fiona Black Certified BodyTalk Practitioner
and important part of Robyn’s life.
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Monday ~ Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm Saturdays from 9:00am to 3:00pm 250.890.3200 • 221A Church Street, Comox 28 CV Health & Recreation Guide
Dr. Heather Matheson “Caring for your furry-family is a privilege! Thank You”
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Lisa Lundy’s article continued from pg 20...
Wes Gietz’s article continued from pg 21...
As we wind out of winter and move into spring, kidney energy can be tired from holding the baton through the coldest and darkest parts of the year. If not cared for, its hand off to the liver can be compromised and contribute to poor liver function and accompanying issues. This is significant with respect to the bones and sinews. It is important to gently come out of hibernation and continue to feed our body with warm and tonifying foods until we are deeper into the spring season. It is also important to phase into activities and continue to take a little time each day to let the kidney energy recharge. Even a 10-minute rest can make an enormous difference to the strength of this organ system. A common new year mistake is to hit the gym hard and go on a cleanse right away. Cleansing is fabulous for health but best if we phase-in slowly and wait to cleanse until later in the spring when there is a bit more warmth. Cleaning our diet is a great way to work towards that. Cutting back on sugar, greasy foods, alcohol and fast foods is a great start. Slowly introducing the greens that come with early spring, and phasing into raw foods as the season progresses is a great way to keep the balance. The early days of spring still have a great deal of cold and damp and can be strenuous on the already tired kidney/bladder system. If we consume too much cold raw food and are too vigorous with our activities too quickly, it can compromise the health of bones and blood, and consequently muscle function and recovery. There are many acupuncture protocols and herbal formulas that help identify and correct these issues. Never underestimate the power of your every day choices around food, activity and rest. Phasing our way in and out of seasons is a great way to maintain health and prepare for the great moments that await.
The chorus goes
Dr. Lisa Lundy can be reached at 250-334-0655 or drlisalundy@gmail.com. For more information visit www.drlisalundy.com
Dr. Lisa J. Lundy B.Sc., Dr. TCM
Acupuncture, laser therapy, herbs, dietary therapy, massage, and cupping. *NEW office location in Royston drlisajlundy@gmail.com *NEW Number* 250.650.0030 www.drlisajlundy.com
Bird poop on your hat –
You know you can’t beat that! If they like you, they just might Put bird poop on your hat. It’s about the sit spot.
Try it. Give your-self permission to spend some time – anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour – sitting somewhere, paying attention to nature, two or three times a week, or more often if you can. Your spot should be close to your back door. It can even be indoors, as long as you can give almost all of your attention to what’s outside. You can hang a bird feeder nearby.
All you do is look, listen, feel and smell around you. To do a real sit spot you don’t bring notebook, camera (that was an exception and a choice), sketch pad, knitting, iPad, iPod or i-anything that will keep you busy. All you do is relax and pay attention. You allow boredom to come (my antidote to boredom is to study something small – a leaf, a needle, a track, the bark of a tree – and look for something I’ve never seen before).
It will take a while after you arrive for your brain to calm down and for the critters to start behaving normally again. We call that the return of baseline. That’s when the fawns come by and the birds land on you. You don’t meditate, sing, wander, make daisy chains or create lists of things you could be accomplishing instead of wasting time doing nothing. After a while of doing a sit spot, you will find yourself looking forward to it as special time for yourself with the birds, plants or other critters. You will find yourself yearning for your sit spot, missing it when you travel, and greeting the plants and twigs and tracks and birds like familiar friends when you get back. And maybe one day they will put bird poop on your hat!
If you enjoyed this article, check out www. wearewildness.com for a program that will help you connect with the natural world. Also have a look at Wes Gietz’s website, www.windwalker.ca. CV Health & Recreation Guide
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Trail running tips: trail speed by Sarah Seeds, BA Kinesiology Speed work comes in many forms. From V02max intervals to race pace repeats and anaerobic threshold runs, there are plenty of ways to increase running fitness through speed work. But there is a style of speed work unique to trail running that can only be improved upon by running in the trails — trail speed. Trail speed is the ability to move quickly over varied terrain. This means keeping the pace no matter what obstacles come your way. Trail speed will improve simply with experience — as it will on a mountain bike. With experience comes confidence. With confidence comes a shift in perspective. Obstacles appear smaller. The same terrain feels less technical. Your feet move faster and you push harder over roots, rocks, logs, ups and downs. Training specifically for trail speed will improve this skill exponentially, however. Including weekly intervals of ‘trail speed training’ will go a long way to improve your confidence. Fartlek runs (Swedish for speed play) are a great way to move your trail speed to the next level. Start by running faster on sections of trail over which
Harry Manx
you are confident. This will turn into a fun interval session of various lengths during a run. Aim to stay light on your feet as if dancing amongst the roots and rocks, never committing to landing with your full weight. By staying light, you will move quickly and be able to react fast to changing terrain. Keep your head up and look ahead to anticipate obstacles and to pick your ‘line’ in advance. The faster you go, the further ahead you need to look. After increasing your confidence with speed on comfortable trails, it is time to move to more technical terrain. Complete a set of speed intervals for a set period of time during your run, from 30 seconds to three minutes. Aim to keep up speed regardless of what comes your way, within reason. Safety is always the priority during workouts. It is important to stay within your abilities on the trail. There is no point in trail speed training if you end up on the couch with a sprained ankle. Over time, you will notice that your perspective has shifted and you are able to move quicker through difficult terrain with less effort. Happy Trails!
Sarah Seads is a passionate trail runner and the owner of Equilibrium Lifestyle Management (ELM), a group fitness and personal training company in the Comox Valley. Contact ELM for trail maps and information about trail running adventures at www.elmhealth.com.
Saturday, April 25th 7:30pm
Patti Whacker’s Physiotherapy
Tickets $40 | Members $36 Students $15 | eyeGO $5
A private hands on approach to musculoskeletal disorders. Structural integration focuses on chronic tissue problems that limit flexibility and strength.
Join us for a Pre-show chat 6:45pm in Harmac Room
“Canada’s most versatile and expressive blues player.” - Billboard Magazine Switching effortlessly between conventional guitars, harmonica, and banjo and the decidedly different Mohan veena, a 20-stringed instrument invented by Manx’s Indian mentor Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, Manx has created a unique sound that is hard to forget and deliciously addictive to listen to.
If you have pain & dysfunction of a chronic or reoccurring nature... ...Patti Whacker is worth a try.
Patti J. Doyle “The Organic Mechanic” BScPt, BScP.Ed, OCS 1915 Merino Place, Comox
250.650.1350 30 CV Health & Recreation Guide
Sue Bloxsome’s article continued from pg 18... periods slightly turned to one side.
• When driving support your low back. Ensure the seat is close enough to the steering wheel so that you are sitting up straight. If possible adjust the head rest so that your head is comfortably back against it with your chin in. If on a long journey take breaks. Walk around, do some neck stretches. If driving in the city, every time you stop at traffic lights do some shoulder rolls and think about sitting up tall. • Walk and sit tall. Imagine there is a string on top of your head pulling you upwards, eyes level so the chin is not tilted upwards. • When reading or texting ensure you are not sitting with your head down for long periods. Take frequent breaks. • Sleeping positions are important as we spend about seven hours in bed every night. Never sleep on your stomach. In this position the neck is rotated. Imagine going around for hours with your neck turned to one side. No surprise that stomach sleepers usually end up with neck pain. • For sleeping, use a pillow that supports your neck. Feather or equivalent is usually best. You need the pillow to mould to your neck and hold its shape. Your neck should be in a neutral position, not tilted up or down. Usually it is easier to maintain a good position
when sleeping on your side. I have found that expensive shaped pillows don’t work for a lot of people.
• Get assessed by a physiotherapist who can give you exercises, posture tips and other treatments specifically designed for your problem. It is common for people in pain to think there is nothing they can do about it. Naturally, we all want a quick fix that doesn’t involve effort, but often all you need to do is look at your everyday activities as a clue to why you are in pain. Sue Bloxsome is a physiotherapist at Courtenay Physiotherapy Clinic. Call (250) 338-8754. www.courtenayphysiotherapy.com
Your Your destination destination for for grocery grocery shopping in the shopping in the Comox Comox Valley Valley 660 England 250•338 1383 • thriftyfoods.com 660 England Ave,Avenue 250 338 •1383 123-44 Lerwick Rd, 250 331 5100 660 England Avenuethriftyfoods.com • 250 338 1383 • thriftyfoods.com
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as SECOND PAGE USED BOOKS CV Health & Recreation Guide
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