COMPASS MAGAZINE VANCOUVER ISLAND | ISSUE 39 | JUNE+JULY 2022

ISSUE 39 HEALTH + WELLNESS · JUNE / JULY 2022 Sharing the Direction of Vancouver Island Communities

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10

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Sharing the Direction of Vancouver Island Communities

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Jamie Bowman

OCEAN CHRONICLES

10

Cleaning Beaches on the Island's West Coast

12

Quadra Island Studio Tour

Dave Flawse

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Gordon James

14

ARTIST FEATURE

18

WELLNESS ARTIST

22 24

18

WE ARE ART

Cumberland Wild returns to the Village Park

28

Adam Lewis | Bringing Lines to Life Kealy Donaldson

Denman Island Writers' Festival

Stewart Goodings

SHIFT HAPPENS

Coping with Grief and Loss Andrea Wagemaker

NORTHWEST COAST NATURE

Carnivorous Plants of Eastern Vancouver Island Luna Loiseau-Tremblay

NATUROPATHIC INSPIRATIONS

What is your Weakest Link to Health?

Ingrid Pincott, ND

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COMPASS MAGAZINE ISSUE 39 · JUNE + JULY 2022

Publisher's Note Health + Wellness When I had my first child, I was very overwhelmed. My partner was away all the time and I was left to raise our son and look after our home. It paralyzed me to some degree; I’m thankful for family – even if I don’t get to spend much time with them. It was my Aunt Marsha who came to visit and set me straight about my anxiety.

She said, “you must look after you first. If you don’t take care of yourself, who will be there to look after your family? Your son? Your home? Push the laundry in the closet, take a shower and stop worrying – all those things will be there when you are ready to tackle them.” This advice has lasted me the past twenty years and, likely, the next twenty. It sets a standard of how to cope with today and get to tomorrow. When I’m struggling, I hold this memory close and find my footing to move forward. I hope you can move forward for your own health and wellness and use the tools in your toolbox; if you need some inspiration, allow my Auntie’s words to resonate for you… or connect with me directly and I’ll help you get one foot in front of the other! Your community has resources – know it’s okay to reach out for help!

“It is health that is real wealth, not pieces of gold and silver” - Gandhi

Kealy Donaldson PUBLISHER

compassmagazine@ourmail.com www.compassmagazine.ca

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MAGAZINE PUBLISHER Kealy Donaldson CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jessie Stones The Compass Magazine is produced on Vancouver Island, printed on the West Coast of British Columbia and published on Vancouver Island paper by: Kiki's Communications Inc. ISSN# 2369-8063 2100 Park Road Campbell River, BC V9W 4P7 250.203.1880 compassmagazine@ourmail.com www.compassmagazine.ca To Advertise & Subscribe Kealy: 250.203.1880 In-Store Purchase $5 Back Issues $10 Annual Subscription $50 6 Issues

COVER Adam Lewis CONTRIBUTORS Jamie Bowman Kealy Donaldson David Flawse Stewart Goodings Gordon James Caroline Lenardon Luna Loiseau-Tremblay Ingrid Pincott Andrea Wagemaker CONNECT WITH US Facebook | LinkedIn Kealy Donaldson

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

Entire magazine contents are copyright. All rights reserved.

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Strathcona Symphony Orchestra Concert December 2019 © Frank Soos

WE ARE ART Cumberland Wild Festival Returns!

JAM IE B OWM A N MUSIC AND DANCE,

combined with gathering

together again in community, make something really

with Ben Howells. “It’s our niche. There’s not anything else quite like what we do.”

good happen in humans. Somewhere near the realms of the spiritual and mystical, music and movement can be

Even so, there are some ‘sit-and-listen’ shows, particular-

a conduit to the much-vaunted mind-body-soul connec-

ly at the openings of the two days. The daytime shows

tion, its value documented by various studies. And like in

are designed to be excellent for everyone, including fam-

a congregation, the connection is heightened when festi-

ilies. And the neighbours won’t be bothered by late-night

val-goers are all feeling the vibe together.

boom bass; the DJs deliver their dance potions via headphones after 11 pm.

After a two-year, Covid-induced hiatus, Cumberland

This year’s edition is “an interesting shift” from festi-

Wild is back this summer, Aug. 20-21, in the Village Park.

vals of the past, says Schulman. International acts were

The famed festival has been rocking the wee cultural

trimmed to make way for Canadian performers, espe-

hamlet for 17 years, in various incarnations, including

cially regional ones. The silent disco will now go all night.

Cumberland Village Works Festival, Big Time Out, Atmosphere Gathering and now Cumberland Wild. This

One of the Wild’s biggest names, DJ Shub (who played the

year the format is a little different, with great live acts

Junos this year and began his fame frame as a member

during the day and then, for the especially dance-hearty,

of a Tribe Called Red), headlines the Saturday late-night

DJs playing from 11 pm to sunrise.

line-up. Other well-known DJs on the roster include The Librarian, Aspen King, Kilbourne, Jennay Badger, Devan-

“Our audience has always been the dance-music crowd,”

elevan, Xavier, plus favourite local DJs Dylprickle, Mt. Eli-

says Avigdor Schulman, who co-produces the festival

ah, Resonant Dog, Skian, Fall On Beats and Ms Rockwell.

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Saturday’s ‘main event’ features Shred Kelly, Balkan Bump, Frase, Sivz, Diamond Cafe, Woodyard, The Della Kit, Nicole Sami plus others.

Sunday is more of a family-style day, featuring acts primarily from Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland. The stage has Old Soul Rebel, History of Gunpowder, Babyface Brass, Django’s Jewels, Fanfair, El Combo Cumbialandia, Jozy and a Youth Showcase. “With three mini-festivals over two days, it’s choose your adventure,” says Schulman.

But the music is only part of the fun. Craft vendors and

"Your Investment. Our Priority.

food trucks widen the experience; families will appreciate the kids area, and art has always been a theme with CVW festival events. Plus, camping is again available.

It’s all part of a “respectful Cumberland Party vibe,” says Schulman, who also notes that the festival is “on the historical land of the Pentlach people, which is unceded, stolen territory of what is now known as K'ómoks First

property management

Nation.”

After decades as an impresario in the area, Schulman recognizes the value of inclusivity. “We hire art-

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ists and staff with a keen interest in gender, age, neural and racial diversity,” he says. Examples of that diversity include the ‘gender fluid’ Diamond Cafe and Old Soul Rebel (also culturally diverse as African-Canadian and Indigenous), Nicole Salmi from Brazil, DJ Shub and History of Gunpowder from the Mohawk Nation, ethnomusicologist Will Magid of Balkan Bump, and the Kumugwe Dancers representing the K’omoks Nation.

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Apart from personal well-being, the festival also boosts the economic health of the village. “We rely on a huge number of volunteers, but we pay our more integral staff,” he says. “We guestimate that Cumberland Wild brings many thousands of dollars into the community, with peo-

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ple buying food, beer, eating out and staying in hotels. It’s

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generally accepted that for every dollar spent at the festi-

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val, including ticket price, three times that much is spent elsewhere in the community.”

Science may not yet have deduced just how music and dance produces euphoria, but the psychological and health value has been clearly proven.

For more information and tickets, check out www.cumberlandwild.com.

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1-888-986-0110 parallel50realty.ca info@parallel50realty.ca Issue 39 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 7

Strathcona Symphony Orchestra Concert December 2019 © Frank Soos

WA L K I N G I N T H E I R F O O T S T E P S Strathcona Symphony Orchestra’s Connection with the Comox Valley CAR OLI NE LENA R D ON, an SSO flutist THE FORMATION OF the Strathcona Symphony

One of his violin students, Tom Morton, who found

Orchestra was inspired by fiddling.

playing his instrument helped him significantly

Thirty-year music veteran Blaine Waldbauer moved to the Comox Valley in 2004 and began teaching fiddle and classical music in an environment where a conservatory of music, school strings programs or community orchestra did not exist.

After playing with a local group called Fiddlejam, Blaine envisioned a local orchestra where musicians from all performance levels could share their passion with the Comox Valley community.

In collaboration with members of the fiddling group, Blaine’s musical contacts, and other local musicians, he started the Strathcona Symphony Orchestra (SSO).

cope with pain issues associated with his health challenges, introduced his wife Michele to Blaine. Michele’s organizational skills as an ER nurse were an essential element needed to ensure the orchestra’s longevity.

With Blaine as conductor, the SSO debuted at the Stan Hagen Theatre in 2006, offering an ambitious presentation of classical favourites, including Brahms’ Hungarian Dance #5, Bartok’s Five Pieces for Younger Orchestra, and Chopin’s Winter Etude #23, performed by piano soloist, Sarah Hagen.

From 2009 to 2015, the conductor’s baton passed to professional oboist, teacher, and business manager for

Blaine needed someone to be responsible for the

the Vancouver Island Symphony (VIS), Pippa Williams.

organizational side of making a fledgling orchestra a

In addition to working on traditional classical selec-

success.

tions and offering access to the VIS library of music,

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sessions for members and encouraged sessions outdoors. SSO members performed at outdoor venues such as 40 Knots Winery to keep the music alive for the orchestra and music goers alike.

By the fall of 2021, Helena and the Board had moved from offering online workshops and outdoor summer practice sessions with small ensembles to indoor rehearsals with a limited number of musicians. Performances by the SSO continued and limited seating capacity numbers were addressed to respect provincial COVID restrictions.

Helena has retained the SSO’s original mandate to focus on players having exceptional musical experiences and not just producing great music. Instead of having auditions or principals, the SSO embraces musicians who have limited experience with their instruments and want to be part of an orchestra to those who are semi-professional and want to keep playing.

Helena and the Board aim to ensure the SSO is open to everyone who enjoys playing music for an audience as well as learning from their peers. Together, the SSO she also offered well-loved Gilbert and Sullivan

musicians will not only grow with each other but also

operettas and Strauss waltzes, accompanied by local

form a deeper connection with their music.

Viennese ballroom dancers.

Helena is also gently encouraging players to challenge

One of the SSO’s rare outdoor appearances included

their abilities, such as performing a complete sym-

Pippa conducting Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture orches-

phony. In May 2022, she chose Dvořák's New World as

tra to musically support the fireworks finale of Cour-

a goal that can be achieved by a committed group of

tenay’s 100th Anniversary Symphony of Fire celebra-

volunteer musicians.

tion.

I have played with other community orchestras, and

Dr. James Montgomery, a distinguished trombonist,

I have experienced the traditional protocols - section

conductor, and educator, became the conductor and

principals always played the solos, requirements for

artistic director of the SSO from 2015 until his retire-

an audition for membership, and set positions with-

ment in 2018.

in the orchestra, such as principal or secondary flute,

Helena Jung, the SSO’s current Music Director, took

were the standard.

over after James retired and she is making her mark

When I went to my first SSO rehearsal in the fall of

as an enthusiastic and supportive leader. A renowned

2021, I knew this orchestra was different. I was warmly

musician and cello instructor, Helena’s first connec-

welcomed and given a variety of flute parts, including

tion with the SSO included her and her family’s direct

one with a solo line. There was no judgment from the

involvement as musicians before the Board awarded

SSO members or conductor and their goal of produc-

her the role of conductor and artistic lead.

ing music as one entity was a welcome reality.

Just as Helena was finding her stride with the SSO,

The SSO holds a special place for me, and I know that

COVID 19 restrictions forced both her and SSO Board

concertgoers and newcomers to the group will share

members to think creatively about maintaining the

the same feeling of inclusion and the achievement of

ability to play as a group. Helena co-hosted online

experiencing wonderful music.

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All photos © Agathebernardphotography

OCEAN CHRONICLES Message in a Plastic Bottle: Cleaning Beaches on the Island’s West Coast DAV E FLAWSE IN 2012, A TEENAGER scribbled a note on a page of

couldn’t believe it had been found after all this time.

lined paper and signed her name with a heart. She

Ignace remembers the moment because a CBC televi-

rolled up the paper, slipped it inside a plastic bottle,

sion crew happened to be there at the time to capture

and secured the lid. From her father’s beach house

the entire event—it got him on national news.

in Grayland, Washington, near Seattle, she tossed the bottle into the ocean.

The Hesquiaht Nation member has been involved

Nine years later, and after a northbound odyssey up

was cleaning washed-up debris from the Zim Kings-

Puget sound, out the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and who

ton, the shipping vessel that lost containers and later

knows where else, Jeff Ignace came across the bot-

caught fire off the Island in fall 2021.

tle on a remote Vancouver Island beach. He held the scratched bottle up to the light and called to the other beach cleaning crew members. They gathered around as he uncorked the lid. Ignace deciphered a phone number on the water-soaked note, and with only a

in beach clean ups since 2017. His most recent stint

Like a log jutting into a river, the Hesquiaht Peninsula sticks out into the Pacific and catches debris caught in the currents. Ignace recently found and took home half a dozen expensive high-quality coolers and some

small amount of service, decided to call.

gym mats from the containers. The latter will be repur-

On the other end, the now 26-year-old woman and

for the coolers, Ignace says, “business has been good.”

posed for use in a nearby outdoor education school. As

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For beach cleaning crews, a finding something useful

cleaned up but points out that cleaning up the trash

is a respite from the usual trash—styrofoam, tangled

doesn’t solve the problem. For Talbot, a levy on con-

fishing gear, and other plastics. Even messages in bot-

tainer ships to pay for clean up would help.

tles don’t excite Ignace anymore. “I’ve probably found thirty in my lifetime,” he says.

He admits, however, “it’s hard to believe there are going to be solutions around container shipping,” and

The ocean connects almost every major city on Earth,

that this kind of shipping is intertwined with the struc-

and while sometimes that connection comes as hope-

ture of our society around consumerism.

ful messages, more often it’s a less romantic connection to our plastic addiction.

What do messages in a plastic bottle tell us? The message has been the same since people started throw-

The trash accumulating on our beaches was some-

ing them into the tides: “I’m here.” The plastic bottle,

thing Renny Talbot couldn’t ignore. He’s a marine bi-

however, tells its own story. It’s a permanent blemish

ologist and worked for the Department of Fisheries

marking our time on this planet that tells the opposite

and Ocean. He’s also a surfer, and back in 2017 he and

message from the note within: “I’m lost.”

some friends noticed debris and plastic on remote and hard to reach Vancouver Island beaches.

“I thought it would be worthwhile to document what was out there and show that to the public,” he says.

They mapped the data with plans to give the information to existing clean up groups. However, there were no such groups doing clean ups in these remote, hardto-reach areas.

That’s when Talbot and his friends went out of pocket to do a clean up themselves. After a successful first year, Talbot sought private funding and registered a charitable organization called Rugged Coast Research Society. The funding allowed them to buy a 35ft landing craft to better access beaches.

In 2021, as part of the Clean Coast, Clean Waters initiative, the BC government announced funding for beach clean up and restoration on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Rugged Coast, along with five other organizations, received funding and partnered with local First Nations.

They recovered a staggering amount of our garbage.

Rugged Coast alone pulled out a heap of garbage equivalent in weight to two humpback whales.

Jeff Ignace worked with Rugged Coast last year and will be a part of more clean ups in summer 2022. It’s an opportunity to work close to home. And more than that, this work allows members of remote First Nations like Ignace to be stewards of their land and give back to their local areas, and he says, “its pretty rewarding because it’s my backyard.”

Talbot is happy that the beaches are finally being

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© William Van Orden

O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H Quadra Island Studio Tour Kicks-Off G OR D ON JA M ES ARTISTS ARE PREPARING to welcome

printmakers, sculptors, potters, fabric

the public to the Quadra Island Studio

artists, glass artists and more will have

Tour after a two year break. The Kick-

their work on display and many will

Off Weekend happens on June 4 and 5,

be offering demonstrations of their

2022, on Quadra Island, across Discov-

techniques. In addition to the many

ery Passage from Campbell River. Take

studios, there are artist displays, a

a quick 10 minute ferry ride and spend

food concession - presented by Ka-

the day exploring all the incredible par-

meleon Restaurant - a group show

ticipating artists in the Studio Tour.

and washroom facilities are located at the Community Centre. You can pur-

This year the Studio Tour is paying tribute to the work and legacy of William Van Orden

chase a tour ticket which enters you a chance to win one of many stunning art prizes.

who departed in 2021. William did molding, casting and painting of the sea creatures of the Pacific North

Tickets for the weekend tour are $5 and are available at

West. His work has been recognized by many as being

Inspirations, Copper Coast Art and Gifts, Quadra Re-

among the finest replicas of our diverse marine life.

sorts, Campbell River Art Gallery and Comox Valley

William's family have graciously offered to open his

Art Gallery.

studio for the tour weekend. The work will not be for sale.

After the June Kick-Off weekend visitors are still invited to take a self-directed tour of many studios on

The Studio Tour is a wonderful way to explore Quadra

the island. Free maps and guides are available on the

Island and discover the beauty that lies within many

ferry and around the island. Come to Quadra Island

driveways that aren't always open to the public. Painters,

and discover the arts!

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1605 Telegraph Cove Road

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Issue 39 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 1 3

F E AT U R E A R T I S T

Adam Lewis BRINGING LINES TO LIFE KEALY DONALDSON

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IT’S FUNNY HOW sometimes life moves in circles! After my

himself as an Artist, he hasn’t been involved with galleries. “I

interview with Adam Lewis, I recalled talking to him about do-

am a working Artist so commissions pay the bills. I am very fo-

ing a personalized art piece for one of my children years ago.

cused on what’s in front of me—my family and commissions,”

At the time I had thought how cool this concept was, inspiring

he notes. Lewis creates these special Graffiti Name Canvas-

youth through graffiti-style media. This time, we started off

es by commission. He created a driftwood piece he built on a

the interview discussing birthdays. “I’m turning 40 in July,”

commercial fishing trip. His crew mate on the trip was giving

he boasts. “It sure has gone quickly. It feels like a milestone!

him a hard time, so Lewis' wife told him to paint 'Alex', the

Geez, 40,” he says with a laugh.

crew mate’s son, on it and gift it to him. A decade later, 2000 name canvases have been commissioned and completed.

Lewis grew up in Cape Mudge on Quadra Island, and revisit-

Lewis enjoys doing them all year round but at Christmas time,

ed some of his childhood memories with me. “Growing up on

he produces a few dozen and feels special that his work is

Quadra really fostered my art style. The island is very creative

part of building holiday family memories.

as a whole," he says. "I grew up across the road from the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre which is my nation’s—We Wai Kai—historical museum. My friends and I used to visit it all the

I know I will be working

ancestors."

with Art every day—and

Both Lewis' parents still live on Quadra Island and they visit

that is a life-long dream

time and really focused on the traditional style of art from our

often. "My mom is artsy; she loves to work in the yard and had me painting at a young age,” Lewis says fondly. Lewis

and pleasure.

grew up with other First Nations Artists who still inspire him today; Artist Raymond Shaw is one friend whose talent and

Lewis has his own family inspirations, his son being very spe-

artistic influence in his life he has a deep respect for. He adds

cial to him. He recently created a frog design after he had

KC Hall’s graphic style to this list.

been out in the yard with his son. They were listening to frog calls and had a wonderful Father/Son discussion and fun frog

“Technology has really changed the dynamics of my body

hunt after. Adam was inspired to draw a form line version of

of work. I’m learning form line and really embracing the idea

a frog to share with his boy. Lewis shared the strength in his

of traditional art fused with my graphic art style. When I was

family relationships; his paternal grandfather was a Chief for

younger, I was concerned about producing form line perfect-

Cape Mudge / We Wai Kai years ago. He passed away when

ly and think it deterred me from working with it but not now,

Lewis' father was young, in his 20s. Lewis shared that his

I’m ready,” Lewis shares. He produces mostly commission

grandfather was very involved in politics and didn’t always

work and recently has been doing full scale murals; he re-

have great amount of time to spend with family. Lewis has

cently completed one in Campbellton for Duke’s Grill as well

a strong relationship with his father and shares that with his

as an amazing piece on a local Shrimping vessel, MV Diesel.

own son.

Lewis is getting prepared for another commercial piece for a K’omoks based Food Truck. “I love working with spray paint!

When asked what his future holds, Lewis responds with hap-

It flows for me; I can complete a piece in no time. I’m ready to

piness in his voice; more mural commissions coming up this

incorporate bigger ideas into form line designs highlighting

spring and summer. He’s working on designs and his appli-

my graphic art style, delivering an art fusion of two worlds,”

cation for the Hub City Mural Festival in Nanaimo. It had been

he adds. Lewis keeps his studio filled with some of his fa-

postponed because of Covid but returns August 3-17, 2022.

vourite personal pieces and has decided he won’t part with

Lewis feels rewarded in so many ways, “I used to think I had

them, ever—instead keeping them for his family and his own

to draw everyday so my talent wouldn’t leave me; now I’m in

appreciation.

a place knowing that I will be working with Art every day— and that is a life-long dream and pleasure”. Lewis currently

Lewis has so many interests in Art. He knows his hands, one

resides on the Quinsam Reserve in Campbell River with his

day, will not be as agile as they are now. He wants to be

wife and two and half year old son.

able to create every day he can. Still heavily influenced by hip hop, Lewis is falling in love with form line. Representing W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

� AdamLewisArt Issue 39 |

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ADAM LEWIS

W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

Issue 39 |

C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 1 7

Health & Wellness Photo © Denman Island Readers & Writers Festival

WELLNESS ARTIST

DENMAN ISLAND READERS & WRITERS FESTIVAL STE WA RT GOOD INGS

DENMAN ISLAND — TAYSTAY'ICH, or the 'Inner Island' —

and has attracted its usual diverse line-up of novelists,

is located on the traditional unceded territory of the

non-fiction writers and poets. Host of CBC Radio’s

Pentlach people including the K'omoks, Sliammon

‘White Coat, Black Art’, Dr. Brian Goldman will open

and Qualicum First Nations. For 18 years, the island

the Festival on July 14, reading from his book, The

has hosted a remarkable literary festival. Dubbed by

Power of Kindness, and will be the feature interviewee at

the Globe and Mail as “one of the best little literary

the closing Main Stage July 17 in conversation with lo-

festivals in Canada”, it has

cal author and gardening

drawn renowned writers

expert Des Kennedy.

like Esi Edugyan, Richard Wagamese, Jack Hodgins,

Audiences will hear Mi-

and Beverly McLachlin.

chael Christie read from his family/environmental

“I like to quote Stuart Mc-

saga

Lean’s

about

Kirton share her poems

his CBC Radio show The

based on her Metis/Ice-

Vinyl Cafe to describe the

landic

Denman

comment

Festival:

Greenwood;

ancestry;

Jonina

former

'We

MP Libby Davies reflect

may not be big, but we’re

on her lifelong social ac-

small'”,

Stewart

tivism; Kate Harris re-

Goodings, one of the vol-

late her epic adventure

says

unteer organizers of the event. “It’s an intimate,

Jonina Kirton

informal and laid-back

Brian Goldman

cycling the ancient Silk Road; Mark

SFU Jaccard

professor suggest

experience for both authors and audience member,

ways to cope with climate change; Cedar Bow-

just like our island.”

ers read excerpts from her debut novel Astra; Peggy Herring reach back to the late 19th century for a

This year, the Festival will be held from July 14-17, 1 8 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 3 9

novel about a Russian ship’s crew wrecked off the W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

HEALTH & WELLNESS Pacific northwest coast; and Anosh Irani explore challenges faced by Indo-Canadian characters from his many novels and short stories.

Aspiring writers—eight of them—will take part in the 5-day intensive program The Writing Week, with noted BC author Angie Abdou. This is a chance for writers already engaged in a project to share their work and get constructive feedback from an experience author and writing coach as well as seven other writing colleagues.

The festival is very much a community affair—authors are billeted in people’s homes, local caterers provide meals, and Denmanites moderate the sessions. Despite Denman being a quiet island, it hosts a wide variety of annual events, such as the Pottery Tour (May 21-22, the Home and Garden Tour ( June 11-12) and the Blackberry Fair (Labour Day weekend, September).

Registration is now open for this July’s Readers and Writers Festival!

You can find all the details at: www.denmanislandwritersfestival.com

in Tahsis, BC “All that is gold does not glitter; not all those who wander are lost.”

JRR Tolkien

Health & Wellness

low fares for comox arriving in 2022 flyflair.com

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Health & Wellness

Photo © Joseph McLean

G R O W I N G U P C O A S TA L The Dreaded Shuffle is Upon Us! JOSEPH MCLEAN

RYAN'S EYES WERE HUGE as he looked at the pack,

smiled up at me, cape billowing behind him like a new

stuffed with adventure treats and gear. When I invit-

kind of avenger. I'll never forget that smile, that certain-

ed him and Kevin to to join me on a 29k racing ramble

ty. I begged him not to start fast, but this was his slowest

through the woods, it seemed so safely far away. But as

speed possible, he yelled. More careful, Ryan measured

winter slowly opened into spring, we had climbed all the

his stride behind us, giving way to the sprinters. And soon

mountains, mucked through all the mudflats, splashed in

we were immersed in the wilderness, fully committed,

all the sparkling streams. We had measured the length of

focused only on the impossible task ahead.

the Marathon Shuffle in four adventures, finding it to be vast, full of birdsong and rain and endless elevation.

The Marathon Shuffle divides evenly into three great hills: Thunder Ridge, the Marathon Hill from which it is

And now we were here, standing nervously at the start

named, and Scout Mountain at the end. It can also di-

line. Adults and teens with fancy packs and titanium hik-

vide into lollipops, one for each 7 kilometres. Now Kevin

ing poles milled about, but there were no other kids, no

was thundering up the ridge, and Ryan was catching up

other eight year olds in wizards cloak or ten year olds in

behind, step by measured step. "There's no way we can

classic purple gore-tex. Only us.

make it," he called to me in a friendly way. "It's way too long." "Rarrr, of course we can make it!" Kevin returned.

Eagle was addressing the crowd, weaving his story of

But his legs were getting tired.

respect and care, telling us about the Tla'amin lands we would soon have the honour of passing through. Ean was

Ryan pulled ahead, and my walkie talkie crackled to

promising free beer to those that survived. And Scott was

life with his trail reports from beyond. "Here's the place

loading his gun.

where you dropped your phone in a creek," he reminded me sweetly. "Watch out, it's even muddier than before!"

BANG, and we were off in a flurry of cushioned footsteps,

Kevin was not pleased with this change in standings.

the first of over 50,000 steps. Amidst the stampede Kevin

To bolster his spirits, I played songs from his favourite

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

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video game, and the woods echoed with improbable

to be mean to Kevin for the entire Shuffle. A significant

yet distinctly classical music. Soon he was power hiking

investment in effort.

once more, chasing Ryan through muddy plains.

Still, it was a beleaguered, footsore, and weary party that The woods were mostly silent now, only a few deter-

rolled into the last 5k to find the aid station long gone

mined hikers behind us. We saw one as we pulled to a

and dark clouds gathering overhead. Then like a white

stop for second breakfast, Ryan

knight from the trees stepped

waiting for us at a creek the chil-

Katie, arranged in secret to meet

dren especially loved. Nestled

us, and bearing in her hands the

just before the great Toquenatch

lifesaving turkey sausages of joy.

Fir, estimated to be over a thousand years old. The creek it-

She also carried the promise of

self was timeless yet entirely

escape: one or more of us could

new, darting with tiny fish. Our

bail now, just before Scout, and

meal there was perfect, and we

cap our adventure at 24k. I gen-

launched uphill with new vigour,

tly pushed for closure, but the

hiking as a team now. "We're

children were resolute. "Give up?

definitely going to make it," Ryan

Never! Don't be silly." And so with

said. "Why is this actually fun?"

hugs and farewells, they stormed up the flanks of Scout Mountain,

It was still fun as we topped out

past a mildly surprised owl, and

on Marathon Hill, Ryan and I

into a gathering storm.

taking turns pushing Kevin up the steep slope. On training runs

It

they had thrown arms around

trudged up the many false sum-

was

raining

freely

as

we

each other and dual-propelled, but Kevin needed it

mits and skittered down the steep rocky slope, hand

more in this moment. That's what the adventure was,

in hand to avoid sudden accidents. "We are absolutely

giving what each person needed. And at the top, an un-

going to make it," Ryan advised us wetly, and now with

expected delight; handfuls of impossibly sweet oranges

a kilometre to go they broke into a ragged run, flying

from an aid station just about to close.

down the last chute at a 7 minute pace, twisting between raindrops to sprint across that final gravel lot.

We could hear a band of hikers just behind, and we vowed to stay ahead of them. Appleton Canyon passed,

There were no cheering crowds as they made the des-

the great waterfalls cascading beside us. "It's taking for-

perate push, but mom was there! At the line, to grab

ever, and we're not going to make it," Ryan advised us

them and whirl them about in victory.

sadly. But we were still on pace.

"I feel like I have 1% battery left," Ryan gasped, staggerSomewhere near Shangri-la, it finally started to rain. We

ing on his feet. "I don't even want pizza, I want to sleep

broke into the chocolate bar then, under a rare covered

until tomorrow," but when the pizza came he tore into

shelter. No hikers passed, having wisely withdrawn or

it, and regaled us between mouthfuls with the words he

been eaten by bears.

would say over and over again, in the hours and days that followed.

The last quarter of our distance remained, and the rain stopped as we began once more. But our smallest mem-

"We did it. We completed the impossible. We did the

ber complained of pains in the leg, and required the

whole Marathon Shuffle. And we never gave up."

occasional piggy back, to the disgust of his brother. I explained that good sportsmanship means you can lend

And smiling from under his bear cub hat, Kevin

a hand to a team member in need. He digested this for

shrugged. "Yes, of course. I knew we would all along," he

a while, and decided that he would continue to try not

said.

Joseph McLean lives in Powell River BC, where he runs a computer specialty store, a whimsical blog, and the occasional marathon.

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Health & Wellness

Photo © Adobestock / sanderstock

SHIFT HAPPENS Coping with Loss and Grief through Hypnotherapy ANDREA WAGEMAKER

THERE ARE MANY

forms of grief, but while grief is

usually associated with death, it can come with any type

There is no set time. In all cases, it is important to cope with grief actively and not ignore it.

of loss. The more unexpected it is, the more fear it creates as we feel increasingly powerless and helpless.

A variety of emotions are often experienced when we are in grief such as:

The grief associated with the loss of a someone we loved

•

Being in shock

tends to be the most powerful grief we experience. It can

•

Feeling sad

be helpful to know that grief can occur with any loss we

•

Feeling angry

go through in life. We all go through stages of grief when

•

Feeling lonely, guilty or helpless

we have a relationship breakup, losing our job, health, fi-

•

Fear and anxiety.

nances or losing an asset of a sentimental value, such as

•

Feeling alone or that we won’t be able to cope are

family home or death of a pet. Grief can come on even

normal reactions.

before death, such as having a family member suffering from a serious illness.

When someone close to you passes away, you may not have the opportunity to process your grief properly. You

Grief is a normal and natural response to loss, and all the

may feel overwhelmed and unable to concentrate; you

above losses can create a lot of pain and suffering. People

may have to push through your day as you go to work;

can grieve very differently. It is an individualized journey

you may even feel numb and empty.

that can paralyze some and others might feel better after a few weeks, while others might need years to feel better.

2 2 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | I s s u e 3 9

It is true that people deal with grief differently. However, W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Health & Wellness

it can become problematic. We do not want it to

brain to focus on the positive love you shared, rather

completely take over our lives, but for some people that

than on the sadness of your grief. Here are 10 reasons it’s

may just happen.

worth choosing hypnosis for grief:

Grief Recovery through Hypnotherapy and Lucia Light

1.

It helps you find times of peace where you can rest from your grief

By undergoing hypnotherapy, you can give yourself the time to find calm and peace, allowing yourself to process

2.

It reduces the unbearable intensity of your grief

your grief at a pace that’s right for you. Hypnosis can help

3.

It helps you look after yourself with compassion

to overcome grief and loss, and help you reach the stage

4.

You can organize your grief, and grieve at your own pace instead of all the time

where the memories of your loved one can be enjoyed without the attached pain of missing them.

5.

device; instead, it turns to consciousness as a state of

6.

You can reconnect with the positive memories of the person you have lost

health and wellbeing that is always available when not obscured by daily distractions and thought processes.

You can find a place for grief that does not overwhelm you

The Lucia N°03 is not a medical treatment or therapeutic

7.

You enjoy your memories without them being charged with painful feelings

The magic of Lucia Light stimulates your pineal gland and guides you into a meditative-like state which allows

8.

It allows you to access feelings of calm and strength

you to let go of any imbalances that may be expressed in

9.

It helps you to move on with your life without attached guilt

your energetic, emotional, astral, or physical bodies.

10.

You’ll be empowered to get things done.

Each person's light journey is different, every single time.

Some people are more focused on the visual effects, feel-

It can take a long time to grieve. That being said, grief is

ing elated or joyful, others notice the deep relaxation.

not a permanent state of mind, but rather a process that

Other light travelers report that their mind feels clear

everyone goes through. With the help of hypnotherapy

and they feel light, while others focus on creative inspira-

and Lucia Light, the process will become less troubled

tion. Others report that they feel like they have released

with tension and stress and transformed into a time full

energy that was not theirs, stress they were no longer in-

of love and appreciation. Here's how:

terested in carrying on to, or low vibrational emotions

1.

yourself you let yourself process your grief.

towards themselves or others such as anger, resentment, grief, guilt, stress, anxiety or disappointment, and pain.

By taking some time out to be kind and patient to

2.

You give attention to your other needs throughout the day, such as proper hygiene, eating properly, and getting the right amount of rest.

Hypnotherapy can help to create a state of deep relaxation and allow access to the subconscious mind. When you’re in the grieving process, it can help to teach your

3.

You remembering the person for who they were when they were alive, and do not define them by their death.

Andrea Wagemaker • Shift Happens & Lucia Light in Courtenay www.ShiftHypnotherapy.ca • 250-338-3401

Tideline Gallery Glass and other various thoughts

We make beautiful original designs inspired by nature using traditional stained glass methods, fused glass and blown glass on Vancouver Island.

TideLine.org W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

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Health & Wellness

Butterwort © Gert-Jan van Vliet

N O R T H W E S T C O A S T N AT U R E Carnivorous Plants of the Eastern Vancouver Island LU NA LOISEAU -T R EM B LAY WHILE MANY OF US emerged from the dark, wet

mostly on rainwater, in which nutrient and pH values

months of winter into what was supposed to finally be

are low. The chemistry of a wetland is intricate and

a sunny spring, this year has turned out to be one of the

detailed. Basically, a low pH value means the bog is

wettest in a long time. Without a greenhouse, planting

acidic and it is dominated by Sphagnum spp. while in

basil, tomatoes and squash in these cool temperatures

a fen, the presence of calcium carbonate buffers the

is proving to be a faraway dream. However, the natural

acidity and it is dominated by sedges. In each of these

environment around us is benefiting heavily from the

bog and fen categories, there are different parameters,

big rains of spring, such as the various types of wet-

such as plant species present, water chemistry, eleva-

land ecosystems throughout Eastern Vancouver Island

tion, availability of nutrients etc. that further separates

and the surrounding Islands.

the categories. While the dynamics and interaction of plant species present in and around these low nutrient

My personal favorite wetland type has always been

bogs are intricate, fascinating, and unique, one group,

a peatland, full of plants that are adapted to nutrient

the carnivorous plants, never ceases to amaze.

poor conditions. As described in the book Wetland Plants by Julie K. Cronk and M. Siobhan Fennessy

On Eastern Vancouver Island, we have at least five

(2001), peatlands are classified into two main types,

species of carnivorous plants which can be found in

depending on the source of water: Fens, which are

various wetland ecosystems, one of which was only

fed by groundwater, have a high calcium concentra-

discovered a short time ago as getting some of its nu-

tion and the pH is usually high; and Bogs, which rely

trients from insects. There are six plant families which

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are carnivorous, and two of them, Droseraceae and Lentibulariaceae, hold the genera with the greatest number of species, Drosera (sundew) and Utricularia (bladderwort).

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Alaska. While this diverse group of plants does photosynthesis, much of their nutrients comes from digesting prey nutrients.

Carnivorous plants display six types of traps to catch their prey, of which the types are used to differentiate between genera. The types of traps are pitfall traps (pitcher plants), lobster pot, passive adhesive, active adhesive, bladder and snap-trap (ie. venus flytraps).

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On Eastern Vancouver Island, the carnivorous plant species that we have use three types of these traps. One of the most common carnivorous plant types that we have present in bogs, lakesides, or maybe floating on a dead log in a lake in this area is Drosera rotundifolia, W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

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Health & Wellness Within the last two years a common wetland plant, Western False Asphodel, Triantha occidentalis, was just discovered to be able to obtain some of its nutrients from insect prey, by way of passive adhesive traps.

False Asphodel has a very sticky stem, and in the field it was always obvious that fruit flies, mosquitos and other small insects become glued onto the stem and die there. As this was thought previously to be an adaptation against herbivory, it was not clear that the plant was obtaining nutrients from the trapped insects.

Great Sundew © Luna Loiseau-Tremblay

Round-leaved Sundew and Great Sundew, Drosera angelica, which use active adhesive traps to catch their insect prey. Sundews have gland covered tentacles covered in a sticky substance, with one type of gland responsible for trapping the insect as it gets glued to it and another type of gland used to digest and absorb nutrients. Once stuck, the movement of the insect triggers the stalked glands to move around it, curling slowly around the prey. Sessile glands secrete another substance which works to break down, digest and ab-

False Asphodel © Luna Loiseau-Tremblay

sorb the nutrients from the insect. Sundews move the glands in response to an insect prey struggling in the

As with many other vascular plants, carnivorous plants

sticky substance, and by moving the glands, positions

have flowers that need to be pollinated and rely on

the prey into a better position, touching more glands

many different species of pollinators to do the job. The

for better digestion of nutrients.

majority of carnivorous plants have flowers that grow at the top of a long stem, far away from the traps used to

Pinguicula vulgaris, the common butterwort, is a spe-

catch prey. This is thought to be an adaptation in order

cies of carnivorous plant we have in acidic bogs in our

to make sure that potential pollinators are not mistak-

area, and it also uses active adhesive traps. The leaves

en as prey. In False Asphodel, the trap that is the sticky

of Pinguicula have glands which behave in the same

stem is much closer to the flower than many other kinds

manner as the tentacles of a Sundew. When the prey is

of carnivorous plants, however, it is now thought that

stuck on the leaves, the struggling triggers the margins

the sticky substance that is the digestive enzyme traps

of the leaf to roll inward to aid in digestion.

only small insects not needed for pollination.

Another carnivorous species that we have in this area is

Carnivorous plants are fascinating and are appreciat-

the Greater Bladderwort, Utricularia vulgaris. Bladder-

ed by many different kinds of people. In consideration

worts, which are rootless, use bladder traps which are

of this, it is of utmost importance that plants in the

positioned along the stems submerged in water. The

wild stay in the wild. All species of carnivorous plants

bulbous traps have external hairs that are sensitive to

are prone to a high degree of poaching by major col-

movement in the water, and respond by opening and

lectors, and many people are unable to replicate the

sucking in zooplankton. After the trap has shut, the

requirements needed to survive. If you are purchasing

plant pumps out water and the nutrients get dispersed

a carnivorous plant from a store, consider if it is ethi-

within the wider system of the plants. (Cronk and Fen-

cally sourced and if so, purchasing one from a store is

nessy, 2001)

much better than removing it from the wild.

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WIth over 40 shops, restaurants, banks and services, Discovery Harbour Shopping Centre is a convenient and relaxing place to stop, shop and dine on the North Island.

Visit discoveryharbourcentre.com for a complete list of shops and services available at the Shopping Centre.

1416 Island Highway, Campbell River, BC,V9W 8C9 | discoveryharbourcentre.com W W W. C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E . C A

I s s u e 2 1 | C O M PA S S M A G A Z I N E | 2 5

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Health & Wellness

Photo © Adobestock / alter_photo

N AT U R O PAT H I C I N S P I R AT I O N S What is your Weakest Link to Health?

I NG R ID P INC OT T, ND ARE YOU SUFFERING from

a long standing chronic

An 8-year-old suffering from headaches and insomnia

symptom that never seems to go away? This may be the

may have a genetic weakness to a spine that is easily in-

weakest link on your journey to optimal health. Let’s go

jured during sports, and therefore might require a chi-

back to the onset of this symptom and see if we can un-

ropractor more regularly. However let’s look at deficien-

derstand the underlying cause.

cies that can lead to headaches: dehydration or lack of water, lack of magnesium and lack of B vitamins. Drink-

I see the body like a water glass that holds only so much

ing pure water (ie no chlorine and high pH) is important

water. The water can symbolize the various stresses we

for the brain that is comprised of up to 85% water. Mag-

are under. The size of the glass is our genetics. If we have

nesium is a natural muscle relaxant and commonly de-

a large water glass we can handle a lot of stress before it

ficient in the North American (NA) diet. When taken at

starts to overflow. When this happens, symptoms begin.

bedtime it may help with sleep. B vitamins are also very

If we can control the level of water in the glass then we

deficient in the NA diet and when taken in the morning

can control our symptoms. If we have a small water glass

with breakfast can really help with mood and energy in

then our system is more easily overwhelmed by various

all age groups. By taking these added nutrients daily, the

stresses.

stress of the body is reduced and thus this 8-year -old is better able to handle new stresses that come her way.

Some stresses we can learn to control. The role of a naturopathic physician or your health care provider is

A 15-year-old with anxiety and depression may also

to help you understand what the controllable stresses

be deficient in magnesium and B complex; in addi-

might be and to give you some ideas on how to control

tion we would want to look at their diet and blood

them. Here are some examples:

sugar control. With the NA diet high in soft drinks and “fast foods” blood sugar irregularities and lack of

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Health & Wellness

protein would be suspect. To help with blood sugar

more positive changes to lowering the overall stresses

control replacing soft drinks with “soda stream” bubbly

on your body.

water and making sure proteins are ingested every few hours makes a huge difference. This could be nuts and

In the case of the 8-year old with renewed health, she

seeds, hard boiled eggs, or a can of salmon on crackers.

is better able to compete in sports and attain her sports

Keeping a diet diary for one week can be very reveal-

goals. The 15-year-old learns over time that she has

ing. The other major cause of anxiety and depression

more control of her life than social media does, and she

aside from nutraceutical deficiencies is social media.

goes on to create a project for school on this subject to

What about coming up with a “social media fast”? Try

help her classmates. The 45-year-old learned that get-

stopping the of use of devices 1-2 hours before bed, and

ting off the couch and back into a moderate exercise

sleep may start to improve. Charge devices in another

routine was important for his renewed health, and with

room and turn WIFI off in the house at night.

the above changes he made this was possible.

Secondly take one day per week where you don’t use

Sometimes we just need a “health coach” to help us look

social media for 12-24 hours. If this 15-year-old could

at the “water glass” of our stresses and determine our

spend a few hours hiking on the weekend or purpose-

weakest link to health. Our good health is the most pre-

fully spending time in a location where there is no in-

cious thing we have to take care of in this life. If this

ternet this all helps with the addiction to social media

article helps you make one change then it is a success!

as explained in the documentary “The Social Dilemma”.

A 45-year-old male with chronic arthritic joint pain due to overuse playing sports when younger. He might be lacking in minerals, eating a diet high in the nightshade foods and sugar that aggravate inflammation and arthritis, drinking too much beer and taking too many NSAIDs anti-inflammatories to control the pain. Adding minerals, natural anti-inflammatories (such as curcumin and boswellia combinations) and improving the quality of the diet will lower his body stresses. The NSAIDS were contributing to his rebound pain so being able to wean off these made a big difference.

All of this sounds so simple, however taking one step towards a healthier lifestyle is more worthwhile than trying to find a drug to do it for you. As you begin to feel better, with your renewed energy you are able to make

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Health & Wellness

S TAY W E L L Hot as Hell, Felt Like Heaven: The Lost Faucet Traditional Banya Experience KE AL Y DON AL DS ON FROM THE MOMENT we walked in, The Lost Faucet

with venik (real oak) branches. It made our Lost Faucet

Sauna House was very welcoming. It’s not meant to be

Sauna experience very memorable. “I have a passion for

homey, like a plush spa experience, but rather raw and

high quality sauna and love sharing it," says Lisa. "I truly

natural – it keeps the experience ‘real’. The Lost Fau-

enjoy what we do here and the experience we provide.

cet has introduced the most unique sauna experience

Typically once they've done a sauna with us, people

in the Comox Valley; likely in all of Western Canada.

come back to enjoy the uniqueness of our sauna again…

The authentic natural environment in which the Lost

and bring their spouse, friends, and neighbours.”

Faucet delivers its services, such as the traditional Banya Experience, made the time fly by and was complete-

The Banya Experience is best suited for high heat toler-

ly relaxing. And yes, it’s true, we were bashed by leafy

ance and weathered sauna lovers and includes 20 min-

tree branches during our sauna experience. Now you’re

utes of administered venik. Finishing off this 2.5 hour

wondering, what the heck is The Banya Experience ?

Banya Experience with a coffee body scrub, a crisp near beer, and sweet treat is definitely recommended—and

Banya whisking is a special, age-old, eastern European/

is included for each surviving sweat-er or sauna-goer!

Nordic in-sauna ritual that uses bunches or whisks of oak or birch (venik/vihta) to create a hot, steam filled, aro-

The facility has three styles of showers, mainly to cool

matic sensation that leaves your body craving cold wa-

off during and after the sauna: 1. Rain Shower; 2. Mist-

ter. The tree leaves transform into a hot massage when

ing; and 3. Cold Bucket (inside and outside), if you dare!

brushed against the sauna participants’ skin in the sauna.

We enjoyed dousing ourselves with the Cold Bucket

This earthy sauna ritual not only increases circulation

between sessions; the fixture inside was a fresh surprise

and promotes sweating, but it is also very aroma-thera-

and then we had the opportunity to go outside and do

peutic as different tree types have beneficial effects.

it ourselves. It was a great way to bring down our temperatures for quick relaxation. For the brave, the Banya

Co-owner / Operator, Lisa was amazing! She was so in-

Experience (for 1-4 people) also includes a private cold

formative, and carefully yet intentionally brushed us

plunge for those who crave the contrast! After the initial

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HEALTH & WELLNESS staff administer the venik massage, bathers can also use the venik just on themselves—it’s not quite the same but it’s a nice way to wind down the intense experience.

Heat, humidity, air stimulation, aroma, patience, and

Health & Wellness

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push-through: these are the key ingredients to raising the body temperature in order to sweat and get the most out of sauna. Though the urban sauna house model is drawn from northern and eastern European traditions, there has been a resurgence of the hot, cold and resting cycle in North America due to its health benefits and how great it feels. At The Lost Faucet, you can also make the choice to simply ‘sauna’ and enjoy the incredible facility with friends, family, co-workers or team mates.

The regular 2.5 sauna session booking includes a complimentary Aufguss, a German traditional that The Lost Faucet has introduced to Vancouver Island—but that’s a story for another time! The Lost Faucet can host groups

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of 12 people but the specialized ritual of The Banya Experience is for groups of 2 to 4 people.

By the time we had finished our Banya service, we were

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already planning our next trip to the Lost Faucet Sauna House. Easy to find at the top of Cumberland Road in Courtenay, the Lost Faucet is a MUST-DO to add to your stay well regiment!

For More Information + to Book | thelostfaucet.com

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Issue 39 |

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WONDERMENT Health & Wellness

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