CANADA'S HOUSING MARKETS HEAT UP THIS SPRING

Toyota Canada Releases April Sales Results

TORONTO– Record-setting electrified vehicles led the way for Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI) in April, representing 48.1% of overall sales. Both Toyota and Lexus divisions saw record electrified vehicle uptake last month. Electrified vehicles represented 48.2% of all Toyota units sold in April 2023, led by record April sales for RAV4 Hybrid, Corolla Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid and Tundra Hybrid. Electrified vehicles also represented 47.0% of all Lexus units sold in April 2023, with NX Hybrid, NX PHEV and RX Hybrid all setting April sales records.

Best month ever for Lexus

Lexus had its best month ever, selling 3,061 units, up 21.2% from April 2022. Toyota division sold 16,555 units, down 7.0% from April 2022. Overall, TCI sold 19,616 vehicles in April 2023, down 3.5% from April 2022. Made in Canada Toyota and Lexus vehicles assembled in Canada led the way in April. Sales of the best-selling passenger vehicle in Canada, the Toyota RAV4, were up 21.3%, led by record April sales of the RAV4 Hybrid. The Lexus NX and Lexus RX also saw record April sales, including records for their respective Hybrid versions.

There were hints for some time the cyclical bottom would be reached this spring but April pretty much sealed the deal. Early results from real estate boards gave strong indications local markets turned a corner last month. In most cases, activity ramped up significantly (from depressed levels in March) and prices ticked higher. Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary led the way though Montreal wasn’t far behind. While still beset by a sharp loss of affordability in the last couple of years, buyers appear more confident to house hunt now that the Bank of Canada has paused its aggressive rate hike campaign (for good we believe). There were also more properties put up for sale last month. Not a whole lot but probably enough to whet buyers’ appetite.

The coming months should be quite interesting. The other side of the valley promises a better environment for sellers who might have previously been reluctant to sell in a down market. This will hopefully bring in more supply and prop up historically low inventories. The end of price corrections is also poised to spur some market-timing buyers into action. Both factors would sustain or even extend April’s gains. That said, the lack of affordability will remain a huge issue, especially for first-time buyers. Our view is this will significantly limit any recovery at first. Toronto area—Buyers (and a few sellers) back in the game The market got notably busier in April with resales jumping 27% from March (seasonally adjusted). A 6.5% rise in new listings gave buyers more options to bid on. Still, new sellers only met rebounding demand partway. Demand-supply conditions tightened for a fifth-straight month and now look as firm as they were before the market’s downturn. This helped push the burgeoning price recovery forward. The GTA’s MLS HPI rose for the second consecutive month by 2.4% m/m in April. Further increases are likely to follow if conditions stay this tight. Sellers hold the key to the market’s trajectory to a large extent. Much will depend on the degree to which they make their way back in the game and reshape (currently low) inventories. Our view is that a growing number of them will indeed list their home for sale now that property values have turned a corner. And this should keep any price appreciation relatively contained. Montreal area—Spring is in the air

Warmer seasonal temperatures—and the Bank of Canada’s hitting the pause button—pulled the market out of its deep slumber in April. Resale transactions shot up an estimated 12% m/m, reversing part of the sharp 34% decline since early 2022. Spring—but more so the growing perception the market is bottoming—also reinvigorated sellers but the energy was more subdued on that side of the equation. Resulting fiercer competition for each property available contributed to end the year-long price slide. Median prices for both single-family homes and condominiums rose modestly between March and April. We think tighter demand-supply conditions will support further slight increases in the period ahead.

LOS ANGELES: New Omicron subvariant XBB.1.16 continues to spread rapidly in the US, with its prevalence increasing to 12.5 per cent this week, according to the latest data updated by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The subvariant, referred to as "arcturus," has become the second dominant strain in the country. It is estimated to account for about 12.5 per cent of new Covid-19 cases this week, up from 8.4 per cent last week, Xinhua news agency reported, citing the CDC data. Experts warned that the percentage is expected to increase in the coming weeks, with XBB.1.16 possibly becoming the next dominant coronavirus strain in the country.

The highly transmissible Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 remains the dominant strain in the US, and accounted for about 66.9 per cent of new Covid-19 cases this week, CDC data showed.

ARE YOU A HOMEMAKER? HERE ARE 5 TIPS FOR YOU TO MAINTAIN YOUR HEALTH

HYDRATING, EXFOLIATING TO TAKING A BREAK FROM NAIL PAINTS: ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR NAIL CARE

It's important to take extra care of your nails, which can get dry, brittle, and prone to breakage due to heat and humidity. Staying hydrated is key to keeping your nails healthy and strong. Drink plenty of water and include hydrating foods in your diet, such as cucumbers, watermelon, and strawberries. You can also apply a moisturising hand cream or nail oil to your nails and cuticles to keep them hydrated.

Essential tips for nail care

* Wear gloves: When doing household chores like washing dishes or gardening, wear gloves to protect your nails from harsh chemicals and dirt. This will also help to prevent your nails from getting brittle and breaking.

* Avoid overexposure to the sun: While it's important to get some sun exposure to maintain healthy levels of vitamin D, overexposure can be harmful to your nails. Too much sun can cause your nails to dry out, become discoloured, or even crack. Use a broadspectrum sunscreen on your hands and nails whenever you're outside for extended periods of time.

* Don't forget to exfoliate: Just like your skin, your nails and cuticles can benefit from exfoliation. Use a gentle nail brush or an exfoliating scrub to remove dead skin cells and stimulate blood flow to your nails. This will also help to prevent ingrown nails and keep your cuticles looking healthy.

* Keep your nails short: Long nails may look glamorous, but they can be more prone to breakage and damage in the summer months. Keep your nails short and well-groomed to prevent them from snagging or breaking. This will also make it easier to maintain good nail hygiene.

* Take a break from nail polish: While it's fun to wear nail polish, it's important to give your nails a break from time to time. Constantly wearing nail polish can weaken your nails and make them more prone to breakage. Give your nails a chance to breathe for a few days after regular intervals By following these tips, you can keep your nails looking and feeling healthy. Remember to stay hydrated, protect your nails from the sun and chemicals, and choose safe nail products. With a little bit of care and attention, you can have strong and beautiful nails all year round.

MEDITATION, EXERCISE TO PRAYERS: DEBUNKING COMMON MISBELIEFS ABOUT GROWING TALLER AFTER CERTAIN AGE

Almost 30-40 years ago, it was said that genes are final. They are ultimate, they control and dominate our growth and health and they put down the blueprint of their diseases. But recently, a lot of modern research and modern science has established that genes can express in different ways; should we discipline ourselves, and build new memory patterns through new behaviour, attitude, thoughts, and intentions? Child development is aimed at children up to 18 years of age and will help facilitate children's height growth with the support of specific exercises, nutritional advice, sensible and effective supplementation, lifestyle changes like - appropriate rest, deep breathing, meditation, and time-to-time positive affirmations. According to IANS, exercises such as: twisting, side bending, forward and b ackward bending, tadasana walk, spot jog, mountain and snake position, jumping jacks, and pawanmuktasana will help improve the posture and therefore, height. Eating melatonin-rich foods such as mustard seeds, sweet potatoes, broccoli, tomatoes, nuts, grapes, coconut oil, and raspberries helps to keep blood levels of human growth hormones within a normal range. Eating foods high in tryptophan, such as milk, beans, and eggs, as well as being outside in the sun, will increase your levels of HGH.

Being a homemaker is one of the most difficult tasks in the world and requires a lot of energy the entire day. Housewives are not given enough credit for the work they do. They are not wellinformed about the ill-effects of the exertion they put their bodies through. Homemaking is a 24/7 job and leaves most women exhausted by the end of it, physically and mentally. They have a lot to keep in their minds and sometimes forget that they need care and rejuvenation too. Therefore, it is imperative that they maintain their health in ways that it doesn’t feel like an additional burden.

Following are five tips for housewives to improve and safeguard their health

1. Breakfast is a Must

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it is highly important that it is taken daily. Avoid snacking on junk early in the morning and eat fruits, vegetables, sprouts, and more. Having a healthy breakfast is highly beneficial and will help in keeping you energetic.

2. Drink Ample of Water

It is very important to watch out for your water consumption. Keeping yourself hydrated maximises physical performance, treats, prevents headaches, and many more. Intake of atleast eight litres of water is a must, if not eight then six litres of water per day is a compulsion.

3. Practice yoga and meditation

Meditation helps channelising one’s emotions and keeping the mind calm and composed. Yoga helps with flexibility and overall physical health. This combination is a powerful one and will work wonders if you stay consistent.

4. Try not to Diet!

Instead of dieting, try eating small amounts of all home-cooked food. Starving yourself may create a hopeless situation when you are trying to stay motivated. Eating healthy will help, but dieting may worsen the situation sometimes.

5. Treat Yourself

Congratulate yourself for what you do every day because it takes courage and patience to be a homemaker. Occasionally treating yourself with a pastry or a chocolate won’t do any harm. It will in fact boost your morale and keep you driving.

Y MEDIA WAS LIVE ON LOCATION AT LIV COMMUNITIES AND BOSSEINI LIVING SALES OFFICE CENTRE

"Dreaming of four-season living near the lake?

LIV Communities, in partnership with Bosseini Living, is proud to announce the next phase of two communities in Gravenhurst and Severn:

The Cedars at Brydon Bay near Lake Muskoka, and Serenity Bay near Lake Couchiching.

They feature 36, 49, and 59-foot single-family homes from the low $800’s and wide 30-foot townhomes starting from the high $700’s, all containing modern features and finishes. Join us for our grand opening Sunday, May 7th at our sales centre on Highway 11 just north of Orillia. Visit livenearthelake.ca for details.”

Mango Season: How To Consume Mangoes If You Are Diabetic?

30 UNDER 30: THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST TO ACCOMPLISH BY THE TIME YOU ARE 30

In your 20s, you have the opportunity to grow, explore and discover yourself. It’s a time when you can uncover your true passions, desires, and aspirations. Although there is no guaranteed recipe for success, there are experiences and achievements that can steer you towards a satisfying and rewarding life. These experiences can help you learn, evolve, and contribute to society. They might include personal growth goals, professional pursuits, or travelling to new places. Whether it’s forming meaningful connections or acquiring a new expertise, each of these experiences is aimed at helping you unleash your full potential.

Mangoes, a seasonal fruit mostly available during summer, contain high amounts of glucose and fructose, which can cause concern for individuals with diabetes due to the potential for a blood glucose spike. However, mangoes are also a rich source of several essential nutrients, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, potassium, betacarotene, and magnesium, which play vital roles in many bodily functions. So, how can we consume mangoes without causing a significant increase in blood glucose levels?

Anupama Menon, nutritionist, shares ways to eat mangoes without any guilt

Eat the fruit, never juice it. Juicing a fruit will remove/ breakdown the fibre present in

Have the fruit as a salad with some seeds/ nuts to reduce the glucose

The fibre and fats present in the nuts/ seeds will reduce the glycemic index of the salad.

Do not consume mangoes with/ before/ after a major meal as it can add on to the glucose load and cause a spike.

Control the portion size you consume. Do not exceed more than 2 slices per day.

Make sure to take mangoes only once or twice a week, not everyday

Mangoes can be taken as a smoothie with yogurt, fruits and peanut butter. This will help in keeping insulin spikes under control and provides a good amount of protein. Hence, can be used as a breakfast option once or twice a week.

TEACHING GOOD MONEY HABITS: THE ROLE OF FINANCIAL PARENTING IN CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT

Parents are the lens through which a child sees the world. From daily habits to emotional perceptions and attitudes, parents become models for developing essential life skills and values from the early stages. And in today’s world, being street smart, especially when it comes to finances, is critical to ensuring that a child is able to face every challenge in life head-on. In other words, the safety and security that you want your child to have come from financial parenting.

“The age of five marks the beginning of rapid growth in a child. The experience and learnings of this period will have a significant impact on the quality of life they will lead. Thus, contrary to common beliefs that underestimate a child’s learning capacity, financial parenting centered around introducing the basics of money becomes paramount around this time. Having a working knowledge of money, knowing the importance of saving, and understanding the difference between needs and wants will assist your child in defining appropriate financial goals at the right time,” says Palka Arora Chopra, Senior Vice President, mastertrust.

It is also critical to note that even when you are not directly educating children, they are actively observing every act of yo urs to make sense of concepts like spending, saving, borrowing, and even crediting. For instance, if you are stringent while spending, the child can learn the basics of budgeting, though they might not be sure of the reason until told. “On the other hand, if you are a spendthrift who uses credit cards excessively on luxury, the child might develop an easy attitude towards money. However, several other factors also play an important role in shaping emotions, values, and attitudes towards money,” adds Chopra.

Whether you’re just starting your 20s or are already approaching your 30s, it’s never too late to start pursuing these experiences. By making the most of your time and prioritizing personal growth and exploration, you can set yourself up for a bright and successful future. Hence, let’s take a look at 30 things you need to do before your 30s.

Travel to a foreign country: Exploring different cultures and immersing yourself in new experiences will broaden your horizons and help you gain perspective on life.

Learn a new language: Being bilingual or multilingual can open up new opportunities and enhance your understanding of different cultures.

Find your passion: Take time to explore your interests and figure out what you’re truly passionate about. Pursue it with all your heart.

Take a calculated risk: Life is too short to play it safe all the time. Taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone will help you grow and learn new things.

Volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about: Giving back to your community and making a difference in the lives of others is a rewarding experience.

Build a professional network: Attend networking events, connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn, and build relationships that can help you in your career.

Learn to cook: Being able to prepare healthy, delicious meals for yourself and others is a valuable skill that will serve you well for the rest of your life.

Take care of your physical and mental health: Incorporate exercise into your daily routine, eat a balanced diet, and prioritize self-care.

Build an emergency fund: Saving for the future and having a financial safety net can help you weather unexpected expenses or setbacks.

Read regularly: Reading books, articles, and blogs that challenge your thinking and expand your knowledge will help you grow intellectually and become a better thinker.

EAT THESE NUTRIENT-RICH FRUITS TO KEEP YOURSELF HYDRATED IN SUMMER

Being a tropical country, summers in India can make us feel drained out and exhausted at the same time, and it is imperative to keep yourself hydrated throughout. Not to forget, the burning heat also causes a plethora of health issues like dehydration, skin sensitivity, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. There is no question that water is necessary for the efficient operation of every system in our body, but other than just drinking water, fruits are also very beneficial to keep us hydrated. As the temperature rises, the scorching sun drains out the water from our bodies, and this is where fruits come to the rescue. Fruits, which are high in nutrition and water content, have fewer calories, making one feel full. Here's the list of summer fruits that would make a great addition to our diet:

1. Mangoes:

Mangoes are undoubtedly the yummiest part of the summer season. This yellow fruit is high in antioxidants and also helps boost immunity. They even lower cholesterol and improve eyesight.

2. Watermelon:

The fruit, which is rich in water and electrolytes, makes it a great source of hydration for the hot weather. It is also rich in antioxidants and vitamins, including A and C, which help boost the immune system.

3. Pineapple:

Other than its rich flavour and juicy texture, this delicious and juicy fruit provides natural sweetness and contains vitamin C. Other perks of pineapple include an enzyme called bromelain that helps break down proteins and aids in digestion as well.

4. Grapes:

These tiny fruits are the best treats during the summertime. 81% of the water content in them helps keep the body hydrated throughout the day. Apart from antioxidants, electrolytes, and vitamins A and C, grapes contain resveratrol, which helps in faster healing.

5. Oranges:

This citrus fruit is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins and minerals. Oranges have multiple health benefits, including reducing cholesterol, improving heart function, being a rich source of vitamin C, and enhancing skin health.

Maintaining a diet rich in fruits is a good way to supply the body with vitamins, minerals, and fibre on a daily basis. So, make the best use of summer and indulge in these sweet, water-rich fruits. Take great advantage of this season and enjoy your favorite fruits by either having them as a healthy snack or adding them to your smoothie, yoghurt, ice cream, or juices.

ARE YOU A FINANCIALLY INDEPENDENT WOMAN? LIFESTYLE HABITS YOU SHOULD MAINTAIN

Financial independence is a state in which an individual has enough income or assets to support their desired lifestyle without the need for additional income from employment or other sources. It is often achieved through careful planning, disciplined saving and investing, and living below one's means. Financial independence is a key goal for many women, and developing good financial habits is crucial to achieving it. Here are some habits that financially independent women should follow

1. Spend less than you earn

Women who are financially independent spend responsibly and within their means. They make and follow a budget, keeping tabs on their earnings and outgoings to make sure they are accomplishing their financial objectives.

2. Invest in yourself

Women who are financially independent make an effort to advance their knowledge, education, and employment opportunities. To maximise their earning potential, they place a high priority on their personal and professional development.

3. Diversify your Investments

You should diversify your investments to reduce risk and increase rewards. Women who are financially independent do this. They diversify their investments among many asset classes rather than placing all of their eggs in one basket.

4. Avoid Debt

Financially independent women steer clear of unneeded debt and pay off any existing debt as quickly as they can. They are aware that debt can be a major financial burden and restrict their future prospects.

5. Save for emergencies

Women who are financially independent have an emergency fund that can last for three to six months or more. They recognise the value of being ready for unforeseen costs and situations.

6. Give back

Women who are financially independent support the issues they care about and give back to their communities. They are aware that achieving financial freedom entails more than just building riches; it also entails having a constructive influence on the world.

Vastu Tips: If you are unable to save money or are suffering from continuous financial losses, then the defect in your vastu can be one of the reasons. According to Vastu Shastra, the northeast direction is the direction of the arrival of money and if heavy things are kept in this direction or there is a lot of dirt in this place, then you may face financial troubles. This also impacts profits and business growth.

Similarly, if there is darkness all the time in the northeast direction, differences between the family members may increase. That's why there should always be light in this direction. Similarly, the south direction is considered the direction of Yama. Keeping a door or vault in this direction is considered to be a loss of money and life.

Three Whole Grains To Help You Reduce High Cholesterol In The Body

The problem of cholesterol can be very dangerous for your health. The high amount of bad cholesterol can cause several heart diseases and even the lowering of good cholesterol can lead to severe heart problems. One of the major reasons for cholesterol in our body is our daily eating patterns. Our diet greatly affects the cholesterol levels in our bodies. Thus, including certain types of grains in the diet can help us control cholesterol levels, and it can also help to keep our bodies healthy. Today, we will tell you which grains are considered best for curing the problem of cholesterol and why.

Oats

According to Healthline research, whole grains are very helpful in reducing the risk of heart disease. By consuming them, the risk of heart attack and heart stroke can be controlled up to 20 per cent. Oats are one such type of grain that can help in controlling heart diseases. The beta-glucan found in oats is a type of soluble fibre and helps in reducing cholesterol significantly. So, if you consume oats regularly, then LDL cholesterol can be reduced by up to 7 per cent.

Barley

Barley is also very beneficial in reducing bad cholesterol and preventing fatal dangers like heart attacks. Problems in the artery or stroke can also be prevented with the consumption of barley. Brown rice According to VerywellHe alth, consuming brown rice can also be good for cholesterol. Research has found that including brown rice regularly in your diet can help reduce LDL cholesterol. Along with making changes in your diet, it is also advised to take proper sleep, drink sufficient water and don’t take too much stress to maintain the cholesterol levels in your body. You can also practice certain yoga and exercises to keep your heart healthy.

HOW TO INCREASE WATER CONSUMPTION THIS SEASON IF YOU HATE THE TASTE OF WATER ITSELF?

As the scorching heat of summer approaches, it becomes even more crucial to stay hydrated. Adequate water consumption is crucial to maintaining a healthy body, and during summer months, it is especially necessary to avoid dehydration. With the sweltering heat, our body loses more water through sweating, which can lead to fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. By drinking plenty of water, we can replenish the lost fluids and keep our body functioning optimally. Not only does water help regulate body temperature and flush out toxins, but it also promotes healthy skin and hair, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Even though water is essential for life, there are a lot of people who cannot bear the taste of it. For some, the taste of water is bland or unappetizing, while for others, it may have a slightly metallic or bitter taste. These individuals may find themselves struggling to consume the recommended daily amount of water, leading to dehydration and a host of health problems. Some even go as far as to add sugar-laden drinks or artificial flavours to their water, which defeats the purpose of drinking water in the first place. It’s crucial to understand that water is not meant to be a delicious beverage, but a vital source of hydration.

Make it a habit to carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go, as it will remind you to drink water regularly and help you stay hydrated throughout the day. You can also set reminders on your phone or use hydration-tracking apps to monitor your daily water intake.

Infuse your water with natural flavours by adding fresh herbs like mint, basil or fruit slices like lemon, orange or grapefruit, which will make it more enjoyable to drink.

Incorporate fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet, such as watermelon, cucumber, and strawberries, which not only boost your hydration levels but also provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Sip on herbal tea or coconut water, which are hydrating alternatives to plain water and can be a refreshing change.