AUGUST 2024

HEARTHELD MAGAZINE 5 MU ST N HA VES W HE DESIGNING A SPA C E

RECIPE: CHOCOLATE CHIP BANANA NUT BREAD

MASTERING GARAGE ORGANIZATION: YOUR STEP-BYSTEP GUIDE TO EFFECTIVELY ORGANIZING YOUR GARAGE UNDERSTANDING AND CELEBRATING CHILDREN WHO ARE NEURODIVERGENT

hello from the

GUESTS OF HEARTHELD

Jasmine Jenne

Jessica Schultz

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief Heartheld Moments

Executive Editor Grace-Filled Business

Ryder Jenne

Vickie Boechler

Chris Neumann

Director of Operations

Heartheld Health

Balancing Business

Shantelle Jammazz

Kaytlyn Beakhouse

Donnalea

Alberta Press & Paper Empowering Young Minds

Sort and Simple

Around the Nook

Balance Psychological Services

PHOTOGRAPHY

Hi, I’m Jasmine, Creative Editorial Photographer for Heartheld Magazine. I love bringing PHOTOGRAPHY magic to life through bold colour, creative set-ups, and collaborative ideas. Always looking to travel and explore - let’s dream big and then bring it to life.

Nicole Zee Photography Hi, I’m Nicole! I’m a Spruce Grove photographer who is drawn to beautiful natural light, calming tones, simple items, and loving connection. When I’m not taking pictures, I love painting and working in my garden. If you love light and airy, true-tocolour photos, I’d love to work with you! www.nicolezeephotography.com

Around the Nook My first passion is my family! I have a wonderful husband, plus 3 great kids who are all grown! My husband and I are definitely “home-bodies”. We love spending time entertaining friends and family or just staying home by ourselves snuggled up with a good movie and some homemade pizza! And of course a beer or glass of wine!

I am so happy to have the opportunity to share my recipes, baking and cooking tips on my site Around The Nook! I hope you can pop on and find inspiration from some of my ideas. www.aroundthenook.com

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CONTACT US || Mailing Address: c/o Jasmine Jenne, 5115 54 Avenue, Stony Plain, AB T7Z 1B8 Email: heartheldmagazine@gmail.com

Treaty 6 Land Acknowledgment

We acknowledge that we are on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional meeting ground, gathering place and traveling route to the Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Metis, Dene, and Nakota Sioux.

It belongs to those who came before us. We are learning to listen, to remember, to be grateful and to allow voices previously silenced to be heard.

We are grateful for the traditional Knowledge Keepers and Elders who are still with us today and those who have gone before us.

As a media publication we recognize our responsibilities and roles in sharing these stories and our contributions within narratives. We hold ourselves and Heartheld accountable for these, and pledge to embrace the heart of the treaty with love.

FIND SELF-CARE STELLA Hidden between pages 3 - 48 of Heartheld Magazine is our very own Self-Care Stella.

When you find her, send heartheldmagazine@gmail.com an email with a photo of your magazine and the page number you found her on to be entered to win A $25 gift certificate to Romantic Notions.

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CONTENTS FAMILY WELLNESS 08 | Around the Nook 24| Finding Balance 26 | Heartheld Health 37 | Empowering Young Minds 40 | Kids’ Corner

TANGIBLE SELF - CARE 03 | Self-Care Stella 19 | Simple Self-Care

HEARTHELD COMMUNITY 10 | MNR Beauty Boutique 12 | Sort + Simple 14 | Your Dollar Mart Plus 22 | Ladybugs Flowers 29 | Spaces with Heart 42 | Advertising Community

COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL EDITION

BEAUTIFUL BUSINESS 06 | Grace-Filled Business 16 | Balancing Business

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear Heartheld Community, August holds a special place in my heart as it marks our family's cherished tradition of "Kindness Days." This month, we come together to create moments of genuine kindness. It’s crucial to understand that kindness has a profound ripple effect that extends far beyond a single gesture.

Kindness is a force that can change the world, one small act at a time. When we allow ourselves the space to grow, to embrace and practice kindness, we not only transform our own lives but also touch the lives of others in ways we might never fully see. It starts simply - with a smile, a helping hand, or a word of encouragement - and from there, it spreads.

I believe in magic, the magic that comes from these simple acts of kindness. We believe in its power to bring about change, to inspire others, and to create a better world. This August, I invite you to join us in this tradition. Allow yourself the space to grow and experience the transformative power of kindness.

Believe in magic. Believe in the power of kindness. Together, we can make the world a gentler, better place.

In love and kindness, Jasmine Jenne Editor-in-Chief || Heartheld Magazine

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Grace-Filled Business Effective, Grace-Filled Business Advice For A Digital Age

Ask A Digital Expert...

Q: IS IT HARD TO SET UP A CUSTOM EMAIL ADDRESS FOR MY BUSINESS? IS IT EXPENSIVE? IS IT WORTH IT? A: NO, NO, AND YES! Having a custom email address is an easy way to create a sense of legitimacy and professionalism in your business.

Many website hosting companies offer custom email addresses, or you can set up a custom email address for your business through Google! This is especially helpful if you already use Gmail.

The cost is approx. $9/ email address/ month and there are step-by-step tutorials available online to assist you with set-up.

You can scan the QR code below to head to Google’s website and learn more about the benefits of setting up a professional email with them.

Not sure how to use a QR code? Open up the camera on your phone. Point it at the QR code and a yellow button should pop up. Click that and it will take you right to the website!

TRUE OR FALSE? YOU SHOULD KEEP OLD REELS ON INSTAGRAM EVEN IF THEY AREN'T PERFORMING WELL. Verdict? This is TRUE! Reels have a decidedly longer lifespan than other content on Instagram. Even if a reel flopped right after sharing it, it still has the potential to gain more attention later on (if another one of your posts performs well, if the audio starts trending, etc.)

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WORRY IS A WASTE Writer: Jess Schultz

Worry is the misuse of imagination. ~ Dan Zadra

I'm a worrier. There, I said it. I'm not proud of it, but worry has been part of my daily life for as long as I can remember.

To be clear, I don't mean that all "worry" is bad.

In my mind, I split these kinds of thoughts into two categories – caution and worry.

Caution is something in the realm of possibility that I can act on to prevent/correct.

Worry is everything else.

Things I feel cautious about might include a legitimate concern that my vehicle may need maintenance or repair or it will break down on my. This is in the realm of possibility, and there may be actions I can take to lessen the chances of that happening to me.

Things I feel worried about might include something like whether or not that conversation I had with a random stranger last week made me look silly. While this could technically be in the realm of possibility, it’s not something I have any control over or could take any action on and doesn’t deserve my attention.

This fall, I have made it my mission to worry less.

Why? Because worry is such a waste of energy. When I imagine what I could accomplish if I channeled all of that energy into visualizing positive outcomes and making tangible action plans, it feels like a no-brainer.

Of course, breaking a life-long habit is easier said than done. The first step I'm taking is to do more regular “brain dumps” and check in with myself, mentally, to see if the things troubling my mind are things I am cautious about or things I am worried about. I’ll be putting my worries in the dismiss category of my brain dumps and the cautious items in the accept or take action category. Honestly, even the simple act of writing all of my thoughts can lessen my worries. Sometimes putting things down on paper makes them feel less scary and helps my mind to let them go.

(Not sure what I’m talking about? Check out last month’s edition of Heartheld or check out my blog).

What will you do to reduce the "worry" in your life this year?

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EASY CHOCOLATE CHIP BANANA NUT BREAD RECIPE STORAGE SOLUTIONS Cool completely! Always allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing in the fridge or freezer because it will sweat and may become soggy in spots.

I like to cool my bread on the counter, covered with a tea towel. It retains a bit of moisture, but can still breathe.

Wrap cooled bread in plastic wrap and then cover with tin foil. This will keep in the freezer for about 3 months.

Alternatively you can cut the loaf into two sections and wrap with plastic wrap and then in foil or place in a zippered bag for long term storage. It’s the perfect size to pop out when it’s coffee time or when company comes over.

HOW TO MAKE THIS EASY CHOCOLATE CHIP BANANA NUT BREAD RECIPE It really is super quick!

1. Mash bananas. Blend in eggs, mayo, brown sugar, vanilla and butter.

2. Add dry ingredients, chocolate chips and nuts.

Combine but do not over mix.

3. Add to a parchment lined loaf pan that has been lightly greased or sprayed with oil.

4. Bake at 350˚F for 45-50 minutes depending on your oven.

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Lastly, you could choose to slice the bread and place pieces of parchment paper in between each slice before wrapping. This makes it easy to grab a piece out of the freezer for a quick snack or breakfast.

Ingredients 3 medium mashed bananas ¾ cup brown sugar ½ cup mayo 1 egg ¼ cup butter melted and cooled 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup flour ½ cup cocoa ½ teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ½ cup chocolate chips ⅓ cup pecans or walnuts

HOW TO SERVE CHOCOLATE CHIP BANANA NUT BREAD There really is no need to add anything to this delicious bread! However sometimes I like to spread a bit of butter on top. Or why not use a peanut butter spread to make a Chocolate Chip Banana Peanut Butter Sandwich, and cut into quarters to share!

Chocolate and raspberry are a tasty combination, so break out the raspberry jam and give it a try!

You can serve it for breakfast, as a midmorning snack or even an after school pick me up. Or top this bread with frosting and serve post dinner as dessert!

Any time of day is perfect for this easy chocolate chip banana nut bread recipe!

DIRECTIONS

Preheat oven to 350˚F. Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray.

Mash ripe bananas. Add brown sugar, mayonnaise, eggs, melted butter and vanilla. Blend together well. You can use a mixer for this.

Add flour, cocoa, salt, baking powder, baking soda, chocolate chips and nuts to wet ingredients. Mix with a rubber scraper until moistened. Pour into prepared pan.

Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Allow to cool at least 15 minutes before removing from pan.

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MNR Beauty Boutique Beauty And Apparel For The Everyday Woman

We had the opportunity to chat with Michaela Conway, owner and founder of MNR Beauty Boutique, and ask some questions about her beautiful shop and her journey to where she is today. It has been an adventure, and we are honoured that she shared her story with us.

Michaela, MNR is such a gorgeous space filled with positivity. Did you always know that you wanted to own a clothing and beauty boutique?

No, actually! This journey started when I was just about to go into my second year of university for my Bachelor of Kinesiology. It was the summer of 2018 and I had just faced the most horrific experience of my life. My dad had passed away in a tragic car accident. It was all very sudden. I was 20 years old and I had no clue how to do anything in my life because my dad had always taken care of everything for me. I had to return to school in September and I began panicking about how I would pay the tuition (my dad covered the cost of my education up to that point).

We're so sorry for your loss.

How did MNR play into the story of you finishing your Kinesiology degree?

Well, I needed to figure out how I could cover the costs of university while still managing to study and have a life. That's when my first business started - it was called MNR Lash Studio and I ran it out of my home. I worked doing lash extensions when I wasn’t in school, and it gave me the freedom to pay for my tuition while also choosing not work as much when during busy school times (like exam season).

After a while, I began bringing in beauty products that would complement my lash services. Things like lip balms, lotions, hair care products, etc. In March of 2020 I decided to launch MNR Beauty Boutique. I had an online store and still primarily focused of beauty and body care.

I continued to work out of my house until November 2020; that's when my husband and I moved out of Edmonton and built a house in Spruce Grove. I decided it was time to look for a little store front. I was able to find a space that would accommodate lash appointments but allow me to expand my selection of products for sale, too.

We're so glad you decided to move to Spruce Grove! Is this when MNR made the shift to becoming more of a clothing store?

Yes! This is when clothes came in. I feel like this is when my business really started to blossom and my passion grew. I still did lash appointments, but I had more of a focus on the boutique aspect of my business.

Fast forward a couple years, I had moved MNR Beauty Boutique to a few different store fronts before I figured out what direction I wanted to go in. I am happy to say I have finally settled into a location that is perfect for me and the growing boutique.

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Is there anything else you'd like to share with our readers?

I hope that when people read about my story it shows them that even in moments of great difficulty and struggle, good things can be created.

Any words of wisdom for the people who have a business dream they are hesitant to bring to life?

Never look around and say “there are so many other things that are similar to what I want to do.” Yes, there may be similar places offering similar services, but they aren’t you.

People are attracted to people who are honest, kind, and caring. Be a genuine person and your business will go places.

A B O U T M I C H A E L A I feel like one of my best traits is my ability to care about people and REMEMBER. My memory is killer.

Someone will come into the store for the first time and I’ll chat with them, and the next time they come in I can remember their name, what we chatted about and 90% of the time I’ll even remember what they purchased/what their size is.

People are always so happy about that. So many people are like “Wow you remember my name! I've only been in here once.”

The secret? I can do this because I actually take an interest in their life. I care about every customer who visits the boutique, and I love getting to know them.

C o n n e c t

W i t h

Phone: 780 914 0549 Email: info@mnrbeautyboutique.com

M i c h a e l a Or check out her website:

Find her on social media: mnrbeautyboutique mnrbeautyboutique 11

sort + simple

professional organizing

MASTERING GARAGE ORGANIZATION Your Step-by-Step Guide to Effectively Organizing Your Garage Is your garage more of a storage dungeon than a functional space? Do you dream of effortlessly parking your vehicles without maneuvering through a maze of boxes and bikes? Fear not, because we've got your back! Let's dive into the art of garage decluttering and organization, Sort & Simple style.

Creating a Vision for A Functional Garage Before diving headfirst into the chaos, take a moment to define your objective. Are you aiming to reclaim space for your vehicles? Or perhaps you're preparing for a move and need to clear out the clutter first. Maybe you want to start a new hobby and need ample space!

Identifying your goal will guide your decluttering decisions.

Ah, the clutter culprit, often lurking in our homes and manifesting in our garages. But fear not, for we have a battle plan - err, I mean decluttering plan : Free the Car: If your car resides in the garage, give yourself some breathing room. Park it outside temporarily to create space for your decluttering adventure.

Embrace the Elements: Choose a sunny day to tackle the task. Utilize your driveway as a staging area, spreading out items and categorizing them for easier decision-making.

Strength in Numbers: Enlist the help of a family member or friend. Garages harbor heavy items, so it’s important to lift and carry together.

Set the Stage: Borrow a pop-up table to serve as your sorting center. It's the perfect spot for sorting through your belongings and will save your back!

Immediate Action: As you finish each decluttering session, take away your donations and refuse right away. This will help you avoid second guessing AND create visible progress.

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Organize Your Garage Like a Pro With clutter now under control, you’re ready to set up your garage for maximum functionality. Start by taking inventory of the items you’ve kept and their categories. Establish distinct zones tailored to the different categories of items, whether it be tools, sports equipment, or seasonal decorations.

Prioritize functional placement, strategically positioning frequently used items within arm's reach. Consider the needs of every household member, ensuring bottle recycling stations near the inner door and children's toys at their eye level for easy access. And remember, the power of labeling in the garage cannot be overstated—clearly label totes and shelves to streamline identification and maintain organizational harmony for all household members.

When Selecting Garage Storage Solutions Consider: Brave the Elements: Opt for durable, weather-resistant storage solutions. Closed totes keep dust and critters at bay, and keep precious items protected from water damage.

Reach for the Stars: Utilize vertical space to the fullest. Hang bikes and kayaks from the ceiling, and install shelves that stretch to the roof.

Hooks are your best friends for keeping things off the floor!

Weight Distribution: Store heavier items on lower shelves, reserving higher shelves for lighter belongings to save your back!

Sustaining Order in your Garage

Ready to park your car in the garage with ease? We offer complimentary consultation calls.

Maintaining a tidy garage is an ongoing process: Regular Resets: Conduct a Spring and Fall reset to adapt to your evolving needs. Kids grow and hobbies change – it's essential to reassess periodically.

Sweep Away: Show your garage some love by sweeping it out during your resets. A clean space sets the stage for continued organization.

With these tips in your arsenal, you're well-equipped to conquer your garage clutter and transform it into a functional, organized oasis. Say goodbye to chaos and hello to the simplicity of a well-organized garage!

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Your Dollar Mart Plus

We are Stony Plain’s only dollar store! We have all your seasonal, party, household and craft needs!

Connect With Us Phone : (780) 968-8555

Email: dollarmartstonyplain@gmail.com

Find Us On Social Media!

Scan the QR code to head directly to our social pages.

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Facebook

Instagram

TikTok

We have a huge selection of items including: Flowers: We have a wide selection of artificial flowers to brighten up your space or to gift to someone special. Whether you need a small bouquet for your desk or a larger arrangement for an event, we can help you select the perfect blooms.

Crafts: Looking for a creative outlet? We can provide all the craft supplies and materials you need to make something beautiful. From painting to knitting to DIY home décor, let us know your interests, and we can even order things in for you!

Special Balloon Orders: Balloons can add a whimsical touch to any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to bring some joy into your day, we can create balloon arches, pillars, helium bouquets and more.

“Such friendly people who have recently taken over, always a friendly smile and lots to choose from. I like variety and they’ve got some cool stuff most dollar stores don’t. My new go to place.”

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Balancing Business Inspirations for work - life balance | Writer: Chris Neumann

Understanding is crucial in every aspect of life. It allows us to connect with others, reduce conflicts, and foster cooperation. By truly grasping someone else's perspective, we can build stronger relationships and create a more harmonious environment.

Understanding is more than just hearing words; it's about truly comprehending the feelings, intentions, and perspectives behind them. It's the secret sauce that turns a simple conversation into a meaningful connection. Let's dive into why understanding is so important and how we can sprinkle it more generously in our lives.

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The Power of Understanding: Bridging Gaps and Building Connections

Understanding matters for several reasons. First, it helps build strong relationships. Think of understanding as the glue that holds relationships together.

Whether it's with family, friends, or colleagues, being able to put yourself in someone else's shoes helps build trust and empathy.

Misunderstandings are often the root of conflicts. By making an effort to understand where the other person is coming from, we can prevent small disagreements from turning into big blowouts.

In any team, whether at work or in sports, understanding each other's strengths, weaknesses, and motivations leads to better cooperation and success. It's like having a secret playbook that everyone can follow. When we understand others, we also learn more about ourselves. It challenges our assumptions and broadens our perspectives, helping us grow as individuals.

In the business world, understanding is equally vital.

Truly listening to what customers want and need is the cornerstone of excellent service. Sometimes, businesses fail to connect with their customers because they don't take the time to understand their perspectives.

This is why we see surveys and reviews all around us – they're tools to help businesses better grasp their customers' experiences and expectations. By genuinely listening and responding to customer feedback, businesses can build stronger relationships and foster loyalty.

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Cultivating understanding involves several steps. Listen actively – don't just hear, but truly listen.

Pay attention to what the other person is saying without planning your response while they're still talking. Nod, make eye contact, and show that you're engaged. If something isn't clear, ask questions. Questions show that you're interested and willing to learn more. It's like adding more pieces to your puzzle until the picture becomes clear.

Show empathy by trying to feel what the other person is feeling. Empathy is about connecting emotionally, not just intellectually. It's like sharing an umbrella in a rainstorm – it makes the other person feel less alone. Be patient, as understanding takes time, especially when dealing with complex emotions or situations. Give the conversation the time it needs to unfold. Respecting differences is key to understanding. We all come from different backgrounds and experiences. It's like appreciating different shades of a rainbow – each one adds to the beauty.

When we practice understanding, we create a ripple effect. Our actions inspire others to do the same, leading to a more compassionate and connected world. It's like planting a seed that grows into a tree, providing shade and shelter for everyone around.

So, next time you find yourself in a conversation, remember the power of understanding. It's not just about getting the message across; it's about connecting hearts and minds. And who knows?

You might just find that completing the puzzle together is a lot more fun than doing it alone.

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SIMPLE SELF-CARE Discovering self-care is a journey of seeking out the gentle melodies that soothe our souls, where each moment of tenderness and reflection becomes a cherished step towards embracing our truest selves

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MY

CORE

values

From the list below, circle the values that resonate with you. Do not overthink your selections. If you think of a value you possess that is not on the list, be sure to write it down as well.

Abundance Daring Intuition Acceptance Decisiveness Joy Proactivity Achievement Dedication Kindness Professionalism Advancement Dependability Knowledge Punctuality Adventure Diversity Leadership Recognition Advocacy Empathy Learning

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Relationships Ambition Encouragement Love Reliability Appreciation Enthusiasm Loyalty Resilience Attractiveness Ethics Making a Difference Resourcefulness Autonomy Excellence Teamwork Mindfulness Responsibility Balance Expressiveness Motivation

Enthusiasm Preparedness Responsiveness Being the Best Ethics Optimism Security Benevolence Excellence Open-Mindedness Self-Control Boldness Expressiveness Originality Selflessness Brilliance Fairness Passion Simplicity Calmness Family Performance

Passion Simplicity Calmness Family Performance Stability Caring Friendships Personal Development Success Challenge Flexibility Proactive Charity Freedom Cleverness Generosity Risk Taking Trustworthiness Commitment Growth

SELF

IDENTITY

worksheet

Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.

Aristotle What is my biggest strength?

What is my biggest achievement?

What is my biggest goal currently?

What is my biggest weakness? How am I trying to get better?

What am I interested in trying?

Who/what inspires me the most?

What makes me the happiest and why?

What hurts me the most and why?

What do I believe in the most?

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L A D Y B U G S 22

F L O W E R S

Phone: 780-591-2211 | Website: www.ladybugsflowers.ca | Email: jenf@ladybugsflowers.ca | 5005 53 Ave, Stony Plain, AB

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10 PLANTS YOU’LL LOVE HAVING ZZ Plant

Hoya Carnosa Tricolour ZZ plants require less water than a lot of plants. If you tend to neglect yours (rather than overwater them), you'll do well with this one. It'll thrive in bright, indirect light— but it can also tolerate low light if you have a less-than-sunny spot you want to keep it in.

Monstera

This waxy plant will grow trailing vines of white and green (and sometimes pink!) leaves. Pet friendly and nontoxic, it thrives in bright, indirect light with a watering every one to two weeks.

Succulents For large-scale greenery that's the indisputable focal point of any room it's in, try a monstera. The waxy leaves benefit from humidity (consider it another perk of your beloved humidifier), but beyond that, their watering needs are low-maintenance.

Snake Plant

Succulents only require a small amount of water, so this set of four succulents is sure to spruce up your home without requiring much maintenance.

African Violet Not only are snake plants extremely lowmaintenance (you can forget to water them for up to three weeks without consequences) but they're also natural air purifiers. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen at night, so try placing one in your bedroom for healthier sleep.

African violets flourish indoors under bright and indirect light, making them easy to care for. Plus, they'll add a pop of colour to any room you display them in.

String of Pearls

Pothos This foolproof plant can handle missed waterings and will function best in medium- to bright-light conditions, though it's definitely not finicky. The heartshaped leaves are known to grow quickly Pothos is a trailing vine and looks great on higher surfaces!

Boston Fern

You'll quickly have lengthy strands of pearls by leaving this plant in bright, indirect light with enough water to keep the soil steadily moist. Put yours in a hanging pot that allows the succulent's vines to cascade over the sides.

Peace Lily Ferns love low light and humidity, the bathroom is an ideal environment. Hang it in a corner, allowing its dark green fronds to drape down. Make sure to water it regularly—but only once the soil has completely dried out.

This plant requires medium to low light and only needs to be watered when the top of the soil is dry.

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F I N D I N G Media Anxiety: How to Cut Back Your Doomscrolling and Manage Your Headline Anxiety We are all familiar with the idiom “if it bleeds it leads” as it relates to media outlets choosing what stories to promote and which to put on the back page of the newspaper (yes, I did just date myself there!).

The Impact of Information Overload With the dawn of the internet, ongoing and immediate access to worldwide events has increased significantly. With the click of a mouse or the touch of a fingertip, all of us can read about violence, conflict, or tragedies on a global scale.

Current examples include but are definitely not limited to: geopolitical conflict, racial injustice, the war in the Ukraine, climate change, mass shootings, political corruption, and the lasting impacts of the pandemic.

This “clickbait” overload can negatively affect mental health - and at times those who are consuming it may not even realize that these exposures are impacting them – but they are bothered by what they are reading and watching… repeatedly.

Understanding the Effects of Doomscrolling and Headline Anxiety Let’s face it, people have a fascination with dramatics – the action, anticipation, obsession, and excitement of the media can have an intoxicating effect. However, when this constant flood of headlines becomes invasive, they can result in pervasive mental health concerns.

Many terms have been coined to describe this phenomenon – “doomscrolling”, “headline stress” and “headline anxiety” to name a few. For some, the symptoms of this condition can become overwhelming and can range from anxiety, helplessness, fear, and intrusive thoughts, to increased depression and worsened PTSD symptom presentation.

For example, Hwang et al., (2021) conducted a study that demonstrated that of the 2,251 adults surveyed in 2020 who sought out information in the preliminary stages of the COVID-19 pandemic across various media outlets – television, social media, and newspapers - reported increased rates of emotional distress. Interestingly, what was also discovered in this study was that those who sought out more information via these media outlets were doing so to alleviate their distress and anxiety, yet it resulted in an increase in their anxiety instead. So…. the relationship is inverse in nature. One seeks to self-soothe by seeking out more information, and instead the exposure increases/ exacerbates their symptoms.

That’s a major backfire!

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B A L A N C E 8 Tips to Manage Headline Anxiety So what do we do about this? How do we manage our headline anxiety?

Here are a few tips: 1. Know your triggers: Awareness is key. We all have a history, and we all have things that this history will influence. If you know certain topics will impact you, do your best to avoid watching or reading about these topics.

2. Limit How Often You Access the News: given the news alerts and Apps on our smartphones, accessing current news events is as easy as the flick of a fingertip. This can lead to impulse control issues and obsessions. While it is important to remain aware of current events, ensure that you are thoughtful about how much time you are spending reading or watching the news. Put a time limit on it if you must. Thoughtful consumption will help you avoid endless hours of scrolling.

3. Limit Apps: Ask yourself, do you need that app? Consider giving yourself a break from some social media/media sites. You can always add it again later, but making the news less accessible across various apps can help you cut back.

4. Counterbalance: Try and find some positive news as well. It’s out there! Some find it helpful to make a ratio rule. For example: find 2 good stories for every 1 negative story. Podcasts, news outlets, and social media sites focused upon positivity can assist in decreasing your stress and help you shift to a more positive mindset and worldview.

5. Practice Self-Care: Distractions and time away from negative media influences can really help – go for a walk, spend time with friends, pet the cat, play with the kids, do some yoga, be present, walk the dog, breathe, go for a bike ride, mediate – whatever works for you! Put the phone down and turn the TV off. You will thank yourself for it!

6. Show Yourself Compassion: It’s important to understand that the world can be scary and full of unknowns – and that can be stressful! You can honor those feelings.

7. Talk It Out: Find a friend, family member or someone that you trust –they can offer comfort and perhaps a different perspective. Importantly – you are not alone.

8. Develop Tools Through Therapy: Find a therapist who you can share your concerns with and who can provide you with some tools for how to cope with your symptoms.

Find Support for Anxiety, Depression and Other Mental Health Concerns A trained therapist can support you in dealing with emotional and mental concerns like these.

Disclaimer: Information provided through Balance Psychological Services' posts is meant for educational purposes only. This is NOT medical or mental health advice. If you are seeking mental health advice, please contact us directly at (587) 985-3132.

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heartheld health Written by Vickie Boechler

What Are the Social Determinants of Health/Things That Affect Our Health?

“Does education determine the health and wealth of a country?” H. Hennerich

Have you ever wondered what affects our health?

Although there is no single definition of what makes us healthy, all governments and health organizations share common uses of the determinants of health - in other words, ‘things that determine our health.’

Within the broader determinants of health there are specific social determinants of health (social factors that affect our health). As a former public health nurse in Stony Plain and Spruce Grove, I considered these things in my practice that affected peoples’ health everyday. I think the public should be aware of these and the fact that health programs are designed around these determinants.

Social determinants are ‘the non-medical determinants or factors that influence our health.’ They are conditions in which people are born, grow, age, live, work, and play, and things that affect our daily life (WHO 2022). These relate to a persons place in society, such as income, education, or employment including social determinants for certain groups such as Indigenous peoples, LGBTQ and Canadians who also experience discrimination, racism, and historical intergenerational trauma (Canada, 2024.).

Social determinants can be more important than lifestyle choices or health care in influencing health (WHO, 2022).

Several agencies (WHO, 2022; StatCan 2023) have reported the social determinants of health to be the following: Education determines health. Education is the most important modifiable social determinant of health and is strongly associated with health behaviours, life expectancy, morbidity and shapes opportunities in employment and income (Editorial, 2020).

Education is becoming more technological leaving large numbers of the world’s population out of teaching and learning because they either do not have the technology or cannot keep up with the changes in technology. (GEM, 2023).

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Income determines health so, in other words, unemployment and job security determines health.

Lower-income households are more likely to be food insecure (WHO, 2022; StatsCan, 2023).

Food security determines health. What does “food insecure” mean? It is the lack of access to a reliable, sufficient quantity of nutritious food. Based on a survey done by Statistics Canada for 2022, 17.8% of households in the ten provinces were food insecure.

That is equivalent to 6.9 million Canadians and of that 1.8 million were children (Li, Farfard St-Germain & Tarasuk 2023). ) In all countries at any level of income, health and sickness follow a slope upward or downward: the lower the level of income, the lower the slope, the poorer the health of the people (WHO 2022).

Sex at birth, gender, and sexual orientation determines health. Women earn less and are more likely to be poor (Chelak & Chakole 2023); women get paid less for the same job as their male counterparts. Stigma, prejudice, and discrimination are factors experienced by those who do not identify as cisgender (a person whose personal identity and gender corresponds with their birth sex) or heterosexual and have been found to affect health status (StatCan 2023).

Women over 65 years of age who were able to stay home and raise their family and have never been employed outside the home do not collect a pension from employment. Their sex in this case definitely determines their health; the elderly widow can sometimes live in poverty under these conditions.

Disability determines health because disability can lead to poverty and poverty can lead to disability.

Chronically poor people are often at risk of ill health and injuries, which may lead to disability (StatsCan, 2023). A disabled individual who cannot work, cannot save money, or pay into an employer’s pension plan is at risk for poorer health.

Receiving social assistance in their younger years affects their senior years where there are more chronic illnesses and more health care is downloaded to the individual or family. Being disabled with a chronic health condition like multiple sclerosis, for example, affects access to care in a timely manner especially when there is a shortage of doctors and nurses and wait times in emergency departments are unacceptably long.

One’s immigrant status determines health. Did you know that immigrants to Canada have better health for the first 3 years than the average Canadian (Statcan, 2023) and after that their health starts to decline over time. This is probably because of the selection process as they are screened for medical status, favoured skills, and economic class.

Being a First Nations Canadian determines health. The health of Indigenous peoples has been negatively affected by colonization, intergenerational trauma, discrimination, and structural inequalities (Statcan, 2023) such as living on a reserve.

Ethnicity & racism , social inclusion and non-discrimination determines health. Visible minorities are defined as, “persons, other than Aboriginal peoples, who are non-Caucasian in race or non-white in colour.”

Racism is being increasingly recognized as an important driver of inequitable health outcomes (StatCan, 2023).

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Environment, housing, basic amenities, and access to affordable health services of decent quality determines health. Where we live in the world has a big affect on our health such as living in Canada compared to less fortunate countries. Access to good quality health care in a timely manner is crucial to the health of a nation.

People who cannot find a family doctor are disadvantaged and forced to seek uncoordinated health care where important health conditions fall through the cracks. The healthcare system needs new, original solutions and services with champions that create debate and decision-making cutting across silos in government ( Chelak & Chakole 2023).

Governments that create silos within a health region create more gatekeeping and dead ends for the people they serve, thus affecting health.

I have discussed the more specific social, non-medical determinants of health for you in this article.

Many things/factors determine our health, some are within our control while others are not. Being aware of these helps us to become more responsible for our health (if the factors are something we can control).

Our government designs public health policies and programs to support us in improving our health.

Together we can become more healthy as a society.

Disclaimer: The information in this article was prepared by Vickie Boechler BScN, MN and is intended for information purposes only, not to give heath advice. This information does not replace the health advice of a physician or any other health care professional.

References Canada. (2024). Social determinants of health and health inequalities; Social determinants of health and health inequalities - Canada.ca; accessed online 13 May 2024.

Editorial. (2020). Education: a neglected social determinant of health. main.pdf (nih.gov); accessed online 13 May 2024.

Hennerich, H. (2021) Health, Wealth and Education: Is There a Link for Countries? | St. Louis Fed (stlouisfed.org); accessed online 14 May 2024.

Li T, Fafard St-Germain AA, Tarasuk V. (2023). Household food insecurity in Canada, 2022. Toronto: Research to identify policy options to reduce food insecurity (PROOF). Retrieved from https://proof.utoronto.ca/May 10, 2024.

Statcan.(2023). Health of Canadians determinants of health; Determinants of health (statcan.gc.ca); accessed online 10 May 2024.

World Health Organization. (2022) Social determinants of health. WHO, Geneva, Social determinants of health (who.int); accessed online May 10, 2024.

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Empowering young minds Understanding and Celebrating Children Who Are Neurodivergent R

When celebrating diversity and advocating for littles, it's important for me, as a mother, to recognize the unique strengths and perspectives of every child, including children who are neurodivergent. I’d like to note that, as a worker, I have worked closely with neurodivergent kiddos, but as a parent, I have not. My perspective is solely based on the desire to spread awareness and to help empathize with the importance of having an inclusive community and to help create an open space for everyone.

Neurodiversity encompasses a broad spectrum of neurological differences, such as Autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorders, Giftedness, Down Syndrome, Mental Health Conditions, and many more. Rather than viewing these differences as deficits, I’d like to try and advocate for the perspective shift that allows us to appreciate the diverse ways in which, not only children, but all humans experience the world - so we can continue celebrating these kiddos for their remarkable gifts and shifting our approaches when caring for their needs.

When working with a strengths-based and open approach, here are a number of important things to understand about children who are neurodivergent:

Different, Not Less Neurodivergent children may learn, communicate, and interact with the world around them in ways that differ from “neurotypical” children.

The important thing to remember is that these differences do not make them "less than" or inferior. Each neurodivergent kiddo has valuable contributions to make, and it's key to appreciate their strengths and abilities just as you would any other child.

"If you've met one individual with autism, you've met one individual with autism." ~ Stephen Shore If you’ve ever encountered a child, you instantly know just how unique they are, and this is especially true for neurodivergent kiddos. They have their own strengths, interests, challenges, anxieties, goals, triggers, and ways of processing information. They have their own stories, journeys, and, not to mention, their own family dynamics. By recognizing the layers to their individuality, we can begin to create an environment that nurtures their talents and gifts and supports their growth in a positive and well-adapted way.

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Strengths-Based Approach I think I heard this phrase five thousand times in university, and only now am I really appreciating its importance and power. Instead of focusing solely on challenges and deficits, it's so important to adopt a strengths-based approach when working with or raising neurodivergent children. This means identifying and building upon their strengths, interests, and passions—noticing their strengths and allowing that to be your primary focus. By highlighting what they excel at, we can boost their confidence, self-esteem, and discover how exceptional these kids really are. Truly, their potential can be limitless, but only if we allow them to discover it.

The Beauty Of A Unique Mind Neurodivergent kids have some incredible and unique perspectives and their ways of thinking can offer such valuable insights and creativity to our world. Their divergent thinking can lead to innovative solutions and approaches to problemsolving that are just out of reach for us. I mean, have you ever had a conversation with a gifted child? It can literally open your eyes to a whole different level of reality. By embracing their perspectives, we can better understand our world and really begin to shift our thoughts and ideas on so many different things.

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Empathy and Understanding My two favourite words. But really, it’s vital to approach neurodivergent children with empathy, patience, and understanding. Recognizing their challenges and offering support without judgment can make a significant difference in their lives. By listening to their needs and experiences, we can create inclusive environments where they feel valued and accepted.

To every parent of a neurodivergent child, I can’t possibly applaud you loud enough.

Inclusion. Inclusion. Inclusion.

As parents, educators, and community members, we play a crucial role in promoting acceptance and inclusion for neurodivergent children, especially when raising children who aren’t neurodivergent. This involves fostering a culture of respect, understanding, and appreciation for neurodiversity in schools, workplaces, and society at large. This involves buying books that celebrate diversity for your kiddos, not shying away from answering questions, teaching them how all minds are unique and important. This involves putting in the work so that others don’t have to suffer the consequences of not feeling as valued as they should be.

Advocacy and Support Neurodivergent kiddos and their families may face challenges in navigating social, educational, and healthcare systems, specifically when looking at specific demographics. Advocating for their needs and providing access to appropriate programming and services is essential for their well-being and the wellbeing of an entire family. Creating a more equitable society and world should always remain a main focus when advocating for all children.

If I had one wish? It would be for a new, magical world where every child can thrive—finding peace within themselves and unlocking their incredible potentials without any barriers in place.

I guess it’s our job to keep building that world.

Alberta Press and Paper: Shantelle Jammaz 39

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