It has been a busy year at Lifewise, with many positive changes that we hope will help us to continue to grow and to serve you better for years to come. As 2010 comes to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our patients and students for your feedback and for all the kind words of support over the past year. All of us at Lifewise feel blessed to have such happy and generous people to work with each day, and are thankful for the smiling faces you bring each time you visit the office. Warmest wishes to you for the holiday season!
Yours In Health,
Dr. Karen Baker
Monday, December 13, 2010
HOLIDAY HOURS
The office will be CLOSED From December 23rd – 27th & January 1st and 4th
Dr. Jordanna will be in the office for chiropractic care on Dec 27th , 29th , & 31st and Jan 3rd from 10:30am to 3:30pm
(Massage and Reiki available by appointment.)
Regular hour will resume on Wednesday, January 5th, 2011
The office will be CLOSED From December 23rd – 27th & January 1st and 4th
Dr. Jordanna will be in the office for chiropractic care on Dec 27th , 29th , & 31st and Jan 3rd from 10:30am to 3:30pm
(Massage and Reiki available by appointment.)
Regular hour will resume on Wednesday, January 5th, 2011
Immune System Down? Try a Massage!
Dennis Newhook, RMT
Researchers from the Cedars-Sinai Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences in Los Angeles have recently published a study investigating the effects of massage therapy on the immune system - their findings were promising. Although the study size was small, results indicated that this area warrants further investigation.
In this study, subjects received 45 minutes of massage therapy; afterwards blood taken before and after the treatment was compared. This analysis showed reduced blood levels of cortisol and arginine vasopressin (a hormone linked to cortisol release) following treatment. Elevated cortisol plays a huge role in the stress response. It can also lead to elevated blood glucose levels (involved in diabetes), decreased bone formation (a factor in osteoporosis), and decreased immunity.
Study participants were also found to have decreased levels of cytokines following treatment. Cytokines are proteins released by white blood cells when the body is under stress or senses danger. Reduced levels of cytokines play a role in helping people manage inflammatory or autoimmune conditions in which the body's immune system overreacts, and the body begins attacking itself.
We already knew that massage can help improve circulation, alleviate muscle tension and pain, and is a great relaxation technique; now, it looks as though the benefits are even more significant..
This study was published in the October issue of the peer-reviewed Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
Did you know CANADIAN researchers are also investigating the effects of massage and other complementary treatments? You can read more about the Holistic Health Research Foundation of Canada on their website: www.holistichealthresearch.ca
Dennis Newhook, RMT
Researchers from the Cedars-Sinai Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences in Los Angeles have recently published a study investigating the effects of massage therapy on the immune system - their findings were promising. Although the study size was small, results indicated that this area warrants further investigation.
In this study, subjects received 45 minutes of massage therapy; afterwards blood taken before and after the treatment was compared. This analysis showed reduced blood levels of cortisol and arginine vasopressin (a hormone linked to cortisol release) following treatment. Elevated cortisol plays a huge role in the stress response. It can also lead to elevated blood glucose levels (involved in diabetes), decreased bone formation (a factor in osteoporosis), and decreased immunity.
Study participants were also found to have decreased levels of cytokines following treatment. Cytokines are proteins released by white blood cells when the body is under stress or senses danger. Reduced levels of cytokines play a role in helping people manage inflammatory or autoimmune conditions in which the body's immune system overreacts, and the body begins attacking itself.
We already knew that massage can help improve circulation, alleviate muscle tension and pain, and is a great relaxation technique; now, it looks as though the benefits are even more significant..
This study was published in the October issue of the peer-reviewed Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
Did you know CANADIAN researchers are also investigating the effects of massage and other complementary treatments? You can read more about the Holistic Health Research Foundation of Canada on their website: www.holistichealthresearch.ca
Surviving the Holiday Season
Julia Pillar, CPT
There are three ways people can approach the holiday season: They may Give-In to stress and over-indulgence; Succumb to Guilt; or Go with the Flow.
The GIVE-IN group surrender to over-eating, over-stressing, and throw out their healthy routines and exercise schedules - stating that there is ‘no time’ to be active with all that needs to be done. These types are left feeling exhausted, unwell, and in need of a New Year’s resolution to ‘get back on track’ with healthy eating and appropriate physical activity.
Others try to avoid all temptations of delicious desserts and stick to a strict (and sometimes more intense than usual) exercise routine to counter extra holiday calories. These people feel GUILTY after indulgence or if an exercise session is missed. They burn-out during the holidays and often find little enjoyment, feeling thankful when this time of year is over.
The third and healthiest approach to the holidays is taken by those who simply TAKE IT IN STRIDE, accepting that the holidays are a time when extra treats abound and stress levels may rise. Regular activity remains an important part of most days (as it always is), but it serves no purpose to feel guilty if an exercise session is missed. Holiday goodies may be enjoyed in moderation, with an understanding that there are more than usual at this time of the year; it is ok to enjoy indulgences occasionally. People who can take this approach get the most enjoyment out of the holiday season and experience the lowest levels of stress, which is ultimately the key to good health.
To make the most of your holiday season this year, take time to think about what brings you enjoyment. Whether it is spending time with friends and family, engaging in a favourite sport or activity (including deep breathing, or stretching and flexibility exercises), ensure to include it in your daily routine.
Remember that wellness is a combination of mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being. An adequate balance of stimulation and relaxation in all of these areas is essential to keep stress levels low and well-being high.
Julia Pillar, CPT
There are three ways people can approach the holiday season: They may Give-In to stress and over-indulgence; Succumb to Guilt; or Go with the Flow.
The GIVE-IN group surrender to over-eating, over-stressing, and throw out their healthy routines and exercise schedules - stating that there is ‘no time’ to be active with all that needs to be done. These types are left feeling exhausted, unwell, and in need of a New Year’s resolution to ‘get back on track’ with healthy eating and appropriate physical activity.
Others try to avoid all temptations of delicious desserts and stick to a strict (and sometimes more intense than usual) exercise routine to counter extra holiday calories. These people feel GUILTY after indulgence or if an exercise session is missed. They burn-out during the holidays and often find little enjoyment, feeling thankful when this time of year is over.
The third and healthiest approach to the holidays is taken by those who simply TAKE IT IN STRIDE, accepting that the holidays are a time when extra treats abound and stress levels may rise. Regular activity remains an important part of most days (as it always is), but it serves no purpose to feel guilty if an exercise session is missed. Holiday goodies may be enjoyed in moderation, with an understanding that there are more than usual at this time of the year; it is ok to enjoy indulgences occasionally. People who can take this approach get the most enjoyment out of the holiday season and experience the lowest levels of stress, which is ultimately the key to good health.
To make the most of your holiday season this year, take time to think about what brings you enjoyment. Whether it is spending time with friends and family, engaging in a favourite sport or activity (including deep breathing, or stretching and flexibility exercises), ensure to include it in your daily routine.
Remember that wellness is a combination of mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being. An adequate balance of stimulation and relaxation in all of these areas is essential to keep stress levels low and well-being high.
SPROUTING: Getting your GREENS in Wintertime
Sarah Dobec, Holistic Nutritionist
Sprouting is an easy way to get fresh greens into your diet during the winter. Quite simply any seed, grain or bean will sprout. They are all full of life and need only water to release their nutritional value. Most seeds will sprout in a jar, sunflower seeds and wheatgrass need a bit of soil in a tray.
Start with alfalfa seeds or lentils. Soak them in a jar of water for 6-8 hours. Drain the water and simply rinse and drain twice a day until the grains have sprouted, depending on the grain 3-5 days. It is a great activity for kids. Sprouts are full of vitamins, minerals, protein, phyto-nutrients and fibre.
You can add them to salads, sandwiches, smoothies or eat them right out of the jar.
Sarah Dobec, Holistic Nutritionist
Sprouting is an easy way to get fresh greens into your diet during the winter. Quite simply any seed, grain or bean will sprout. They are all full of life and need only water to release their nutritional value. Most seeds will sprout in a jar, sunflower seeds and wheatgrass need a bit of soil in a tray.
Start with alfalfa seeds or lentils. Soak them in a jar of water for 6-8 hours. Drain the water and simply rinse and drain twice a day until the grains have sprouted, depending on the grain 3-5 days. It is a great activity for kids. Sprouts are full of vitamins, minerals, protein, phyto-nutrients and fibre.
You can add them to salads, sandwiches, smoothies or eat them right out of the jar.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Lifewise Health and Wellness Newsletter - October 2010
Lifewise Health and Wellness Newsletter - October 2010
I was recently shown a disturbing article from a back issue of the Toronto Star (Sept 27, 2002) that discusses the questionable albeit sophisticated marketing tactics taken by some drug companies. Although this article, Disorders made to order; Drug firm’s new selling strategy: Dig up and market a new illness, then peddle a cure, is dated, the topic remains relevant. Instead of directly selling the medication, many pharmaceutical companies mount disease awareness campaigns, both to the public and to medical doctors. These campaigns market new uses for older drugs just as their patent protection expires. What’s the take home message? Beware of medications of all kinds - while some have merit,
others can do more harm than good.
Yours In Health,
Dr. Karen Baker
I was recently shown a disturbing article from a back issue of the Toronto Star (Sept 27, 2002) that discusses the questionable albeit sophisticated marketing tactics taken by some drug companies. Although this article, Disorders made to order; Drug firm’s new selling strategy: Dig up and market a new illness, then peddle a cure, is dated, the topic remains relevant. Instead of directly selling the medication, many pharmaceutical companies mount disease awareness campaigns, both to the public and to medical doctors. These campaigns market new uses for older drugs just as their patent protection expires. What’s the take home message? Beware of medications of all kinds - while some have merit,
others can do more harm than good.
Yours In Health,
Dr. Karen Baker
Lifewise Welcomes Dr. Jordanna Clarfield-Henry
Lifewise Welcomes Dr. Jordanna Clarfield-Henry
Lifewise is joining forces with Mt. Pleasant Chiropractic.
Beginning November 1st, Dr. Jordanna Clarfield-Henry will be moving her practice into our office. Dr. J (as she is affectionately known to her patients) will be available for chiropractic care on Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays.
Welcome Dr. J - we’re happy to have you join the team!
Lifewise is joining forces with Mt. Pleasant Chiropractic.
Beginning November 1st, Dr. Jordanna Clarfield-Henry will be moving her practice into our office. Dr. J (as she is affectionately known to her patients) will be available for chiropractic care on Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays.
Welcome Dr. J - we’re happy to have you join the team!
Quick & Healthy Fall Recipes
Quick & Healthy Fall Recipes
From Sarah Dobec, Certified Holistic Nutritionist
Roasted Fall Veggies
o 2 large potatoes washed and cubed
o 3-4 medium beets washed, peeled and cubed
o 2 large carrots washed and cut into large coins
o 5-6 cloves of garlic cut in half
o 1 large cooking onion cut into large chunks
Place all the veggies in a roasting dish. Mix together ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup toasted sesame oil, 2 tsp grated ginger, salt and pepper. Mix with veggies and bake at 350 until beets are tender.
White Bean Dip
o 1 can white beans
o 3 tbsp flax oil
o 1 clove garlic
o 1/2 tsp sea salt
o 1 tsp dill
o Pepper to taste
Blend all the ingredients in a food processor and add filtered water until you reach the desired consistency.
Easy Hummus
o 1 can of chick peas (rinsed)
o Juice of one lemon
o 1 large clove of garlic
o ¼ cup of tahini
o ½ tsp sea salt
o Pepper to taste
Blend all the ingredients in a food processor and add filtered water until you reach the desired consistency. You can also add: Basil, Cumin, Cayenne, Curry - BE CREATIVE!
From Sarah Dobec, Certified Holistic Nutritionist
Roasted Fall Veggies
o 2 large potatoes washed and cubed
o 3-4 medium beets washed, peeled and cubed
o 2 large carrots washed and cut into large coins
o 5-6 cloves of garlic cut in half
o 1 large cooking onion cut into large chunks
Place all the veggies in a roasting dish. Mix together ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup toasted sesame oil, 2 tsp grated ginger, salt and pepper. Mix with veggies and bake at 350 until beets are tender.
White Bean Dip
o 1 can white beans
o 3 tbsp flax oil
o 1 clove garlic
o 1/2 tsp sea salt
o 1 tsp dill
o Pepper to taste
Blend all the ingredients in a food processor and add filtered water until you reach the desired consistency.
Easy Hummus
o 1 can of chick peas (rinsed)
o Juice of one lemon
o 1 large clove of garlic
o ¼ cup of tahini
o ½ tsp sea salt
o Pepper to taste
Blend all the ingredients in a food processor and add filtered water until you reach the desired consistency. You can also add: Basil, Cumin, Cayenne, Curry - BE CREATIVE!
Fiver Fridays
FIVER FRIDAYS:
For just $5 join for our rotating schedule of drop-in
classes and workshops on Friday evenings at 5pm. Our instructors
volunteer their time, this year all proceeds will be donated to
FoodShare.
October 15th – Benefits of Orthotics (Dr. Joy Simon)
October 22nd – Intro to Tai Chi (Paul Lara)
October 29th – Healthy Immunity (Sarah Dobec)
For just $5 join for our rotating schedule of drop-in
classes and workshops on Friday evenings at 5pm. Our instructors
volunteer their time, this year all proceeds will be donated to
FoodShare.
October 15th – Benefits of Orthotics (Dr. Joy Simon)
October 22nd – Intro to Tai Chi (Paul Lara)
October 29th – Healthy Immunity (Sarah Dobec)
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