Spring IN THE VALLEY 2014
Shoulder Pain Relief
Page 4
Spring Golfing
Page 9
Growing a Medicine Garden Page 12 Island Cave Diving
Page 24
ion New Sect Matters of Aging
Page 16
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Table of Contents Relief from Shoulder pain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 by Dr. Deidre Macdonald
How Aging Affects Your Feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 by Trvor Pritoula
Living Fearlessly! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 by Cheryl Levine
Swing into Spring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 by Bill Kelly
Exploring the Benefits of Herbal Remedies . . 10 by Martha Godman
Growing a Medicine Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 by Chanchal Cabrera
Why Forgiveness? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
by Alice Grange
Nursing Foot Care Keeps You Active . . . . . . . . 16 by Anne Lai
Wellbeing’s 55+ Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 by Karen Holton
Aging & Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 by Sarah Seeds
Publisher’s Note Hi everyone, especially my loyal reader’s. It’s my favourite time of year, spring. It’s great to still publish the magazine. In fact, it’s actually a lot of fun to do. Life has changed for me a lot, and probably more like changing to normal as my grandkids are on the way and living their own life.
Now that I’m not sailing as I sold my sailboat, my focus has been more on camping and exploring Canada, the U.S. and foreign travel.
I’m looking forward to visiting my parents and family in April. Both my parents are turning 89. Married 68 years, it’s amazing just thinking about it, and I’m understanding how lucky I am to enjoy this time with parents and family. I’m looking forward to taking a bit more time off. Perhaps someone would be interested in working with me and making a few extra dollars. If interested, give me a call.
Hope you enjoy the articles in this issue such as Bill Coltart’s look at caving on Vancouver Island, the by Heather Hodge Paradoxical Law of Change by Chris Bruels, and golfing Rescue Me ! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 tips from Glacier Greens pro Bill Kelly. Turn Off the Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
by Van Isle Veterinary Hospital
An Excess of 1,00 Caves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 by Bill Coltart Touched . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
by Dr. Dawn Armstrong
Paradoxical Law of Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 by Chris Bruels
Canine Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears . . 28 by Dr. Heather Matheson
Menopause and... Why am I gaining weight? 30 by Patti Doyle
Front cover photograph provided by Bill Coltart, owner of Pacific Pro Dive in Courtenay, BC.
~ 2014 SUMMER ISSUE ~
Article submissions on health & recreation in the Comox Valley are required by May 1st, 2014 and ad submissions are required by May 15 th, 2014. Submission Guidelines can be found on our web site. www.comoxhealthandrecguide.com
PUBLISHER : Allan Gear PHONE : 250.339.0252 FAX : 250.339.2210 EMAIL : alg1@telus.net EDITOR : Scott Stanfield LAYOUT : Lenore Lowe Comox Valley Health & Recreation Guide is published 4 times a year. All rights are reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part, without the written consent of the publisher. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for, and does not endorse, the contents of any advertisement herein, and all representations or warranties made in such advertising are those of the advertiser and not the publisher. The publisher is not liable to any advertiser for any misprint(s) in or about the advertisement that is not the direct fault of the publisher. And, in such an event, the limit of the liability shall not exceed the amount of the publishers charges for such advertising. Articles published in Comox Valley Health & Recreation Guide are not necessarily the opinion of the publisher.
YEARLY SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE ~ $10.00 postage paid
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3
Relief from Shoulder Pain by Dr. Deidre Macdonald, ND
We don’t realize how much we use our shoulders until something goes wrong. We use them for putting away dishes, lifting our kids, playing sports, trade work and more. The shoulder is one of the most complex joints in the body. It moves in more directions than any other joint. This tremendous mobility makes the shoulder joint vulnerable to problems. Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions I see. If you have shoulder pain, it is wise to try and determine the source of the problem and take a role in treatment so you can get back on track. Laser light therapy is a safe, painless and effective treatment for a variety of shoulder problems. Determining the source of the problem requires
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The most common conditions I see are rotator cuff problems. The rotator cuff is a sheath made up of four muscle tendons. Tendonitis can set in, the tendons can become impinged under the top of the shoulder, or tendons can be partially or fully torn. The most common tear is in the supraspinatus muscle that runs along the top/back of the shoulder, under the acromion and attaches to the top of the arm bone. When this muscle is affected, lifting the arm to the side is painful or impossible. Rotator cuff issues are often associated with bicep tendonitis and bursitis, although these conditions can occur alone. In bicep tendonitis, the tendon becomes inflamed or fibrotic, and commonly creates a deep, throbbing ache in the front of the shoulder. Bursitis can create acute pain with raising the arm. Tears in the labrum can create deep joint pain and frozen shoulder. Arthritis, in the ball and socket joint or where the collarbone meets the shoulder, can cause pain and reduced range of motion. What are treatment options? Anti-inflammatory drugs create problems with daily use. Surgery is necessary to repair a complete rotator cuff tear, but for most other conditions the effectiveness of surgery, according to published reports, is difficult to predict. Exercise and stretching are important but may not be feasible when the shoulder is too painful to move.
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a detailed physical examination of the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, bursa, ligaments and nerves. I can often learn a great deal through a thorough physical exam involving structural palpation, muscle testing, orthopaedic tests and measuring range of motion. Diagnostic imaging can help but is not always available for people with mild to moderate injuries.
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Laser therapy is an effective treatment for speeding the COMOX VALLEY healing of shoulder problems. Extensive research has Foot Care Services shown that laser light therapy is a safe and effective treatment for tendonitis, bursitis, arthritis and other YOUR APPROVAL IS REQUESTED Sheila Cameron, RN issues that affect the shoulder. It reduces inflammation, THANK YOU! “specializing in Signature increases circulation, speeds metabolism on a cellular Your changes or approval to FAX 339-2210 or level, reduces fibrosis and scar tissue, and strengthens diabetic phone 339-0252 - ALLAN GEAR and “I will stop by and see you personally tissue. These mechanisms result in rapid resolution of if you wish to discuss your advertisement.” elder foot care!” pain. Placebo controlled studies of laser therapy for even frozen shoulder have shown significant reduction 250.897.2153 in pain and disability. In my clinic I use a state of the art machine that utilizes pads of light that can bathe large areas of the shoulder in therapeutic light. Then we use a high potency cold laser beam to penetrate deeper into tissues to promote healing. Most patients with shoulder issues treated with 9-12 sessions heal quickly, take less pain medication and are able to resume work and normal activities.
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So take care of your hard-working shoulders. With laser light therapy, stretching and therapeutic exercise, you may be able to enjoy relief from shoulder pain.
Wondering if laser therapy is right for you? Dr. Macdonald offers a free 15-minute consultation. Contact her downtown Courtenay clinic at 897-0235. www.getwellhere.com.
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How Aging Affects Your Feet by Trevor Pritoula, C.Ped.C., B.Kin.
By the time we reach 65, most of us will have walked more than 75,000 miles (three times around the equator), and bore several million tons of weight on our feet. Years of wear and tear, the accumulative mileage and changes in anatomy that occur with age can alter the structure and function of one’s feet to cause significant problems and discomforts. Although changes in the feet over time are varied and plentiful…so much so a whole book could be devoted to this subject, the most common foot complaints I see will be discussed in this article.
Increase in foot size and width. The changes that take place in the feet are like those that take place in the rest of our body as we age. With time, the ligaments, tendons and muscles become thinner and weaken. As the foot’s muscles, tendons and ligaments lose some of their elasticity and strength, they don’t hold the bones and joints together as tightly as they once did. This causes an increase in foot length and width, also known as “fallen arches,” involving the medial, lateral or metatarsal/ forefoot arch. This can lead to painful conditions such
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Claw/Hammer toes. As we age, the ligaments, tendons and joint capsules (the fibrous tissue that encloses a joint) begin to weaken and stretch. When this occurs, bones of the forefoot are not held tightly in their correct position and they begin to move out of alignment. At the same time, the joint’s cartilage is wearing down due to wear and tear that joints undergo during our lifetime. This further destabilizes joints, making it easier for bones to become malaligned. This can cause pain, callus/corns to develop in the ball of the foot or tops/tips of toes due to their altered position. Action: Wear shoes with a deep and wide toe box (the area of shoes that enclose toes). Extra depth and width may keep shoes from pressing against the sensitive skin on the tops of toes. If toes can be straightened with pressure, stretch individual toes daily and strengthen muscles opposing direction of deformity. Loss of Fat Pad. The fat pads function as a cushion and shock absorber for underlying bones, joints and soft tissue structures in the heel and ball of the feet. Fat pads become thinner, or atrophy, due to constant pressure endured for years. When the pad is not of optimum thickness, the force and weight of each step we take is passed on to underlying structures. This eventually produces inflammation and pain in soft tissues, bones and joints within the feet and can contribute to various skin and foot problems. Action: Avoid barefoot, ensure footwear has adequate thickness in the sole/midsole to protect bottom of feet. Cushioned insoles and orthotics can provide additional protection. Arthritis. It is speculated that one in six people over the age of 50 will develop osteoarthritis (the “wear
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as plantar fasciitis/heel spurs, tendonitis, arthritis and bunions, or even contribute to poor balance. Action: If you have aches and pains because of flat feet, avoid going barefoot. Ensure your footwear fits your foot properly with regards to length, width and shape of foot. Always select new footwear towards the end of day when foot size/volume is greatest. Orthotics, contoured foot beds placed in shoes, can help stabilize the foot and prevent changes that cause arches to collapse.
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and tear” variety of arthritis) in their feet. This loss of cartilage covering the ends of bones/joints can develop as a result of poor or altered alignment and function. The condition is characterized by damage to cartilage, causing inflammation around the joints and resulting in pain, stiffness and possibly bony bumps over the top of the foot. One can also develop/exacerbate ankle, knee and hip arthritis secondary to poor foot mechanics and malalignment. Action: Use of supportive footwear/ orthotics with ample cushioning to improve alignment and alleviate excessive stress on joints in the lower extremity.
Skin/ Nail Changes. With increasing age, blood supply to the extremities may diminish and the skin’s ability to produce sweat, oil and other fatty substances is reduced. Skin cells also divide more slowly, and skin becomes thinner. As a result, water content of skin is reduced, which leads to age-related dry skin and increases the risk of cuts, infections and ulcerations. Toenails conversely can become thickened and more brittle, which may be the result of trauma to the nail bed from years of bashing against shoes or the result of a fungal infection. Action: Clean and inspect feet daily. Use foot-specific hydrating lotions on regular basis. Proper nail care/treatment of fungal nail to reduce thickness of nails. Predisposing Factors are conditions that make an individual more susceptible to experiencing foot problems as they age. They include, but are not limited to: • Circulatory problems (i.e. arteriosclerosis/peripheral vascular disease, varicose veins) • Diabetes
• Peripheral neuropathy • Pronation arch) or Supination (high arch)
(flat
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One pair of feet has to last a lifetime…Do you care? I Do. Trevor Pritoula, C.Ped.C., B.Kin. can be reached at Strathcona Orthotic Solutions (SOS Orthotics). Phone 25-339-5892 for more information.
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7
Living Fearlessly! by Cheryl Levine
What is fear? How does it manifest in our lives? There are times when fear inspires beneficial action, like when you leave a burning building. There are times when it holds us hostage, unable to act or move forward, and there are times when it controls us and limits our potential for peace and happiness. There is no question that fear has its place in the human psyche. The challenge is to learn to recognize and acknowledge when fear is your friend and when fear is your enemy. I recently had the opportunity to spend some time with a friend and her husband. As I listened to their conversation it became clear that my friend was not hearing what her life partner was saying. Somewhere between this lovely man expressing a gentle and loving concern for her and for their relationship and her response, was her interpretation, twisted and mangled by her fear. I can’t begin to know what that fear was. Perhaps it was fear of abandonment or a fear that she was not worthy. Whatever the basis of her fear, it was clearly limiting her ability to deeply hear her partner and be present in their relationship in an authentic and loving way. Some fears are primal. They are based on the desire to survive. These are good fears. They protect us from harm and encourage us to leave when we are in danger. Other fears are learned. These begin with our interpretation of a situation. We have an experience we believe threatens
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us in some way. We create a belief about this and other similar situations, that when activated, elicits fear. Fear is often woven into our cultural beliefs as well. We see this with racism and in long-standing conflicts between countries and belief systems. The key is to recognize that fear always begins as a thought, as a belief. One of the gifts of a long-standing meditation practice is the ability to separate myself from thoughts. Thinking is something I do, it is not who I am. Knowing this, I am able to see my thoughts as separate entities. This gives me the ability to question what I think. When I notice fear in my response to situations and circumstances, I question its validity. “What am I really afraid of? What if the thing that I am afraid of happens? Will I survive if the worst happens? What do I know for sure is true?” These questions, and others that arise in the moment, always lead to the realization that fear is not real and that it is limiting me far more than serving me. There is an old Japanese proverb that says, “Fear is only as deep as the mind allows.” Truth is, life simply unfolds. I am not in control of it. There is freedom in this knowledge and in knowing that what I can control is how I respond to life as it happens. So I question my thoughts, I question my fears and I embrace life as it happens. In the end, even the most primal of all fears, the fear of death, is fruitless, because death, like life, is inevitable. Cheryl Levine is a certified coach. She and her partner Lucas Stiefvater own and operate Ocean Resort, Vancouver Island’s Wellness Centre and Spa in Oyster Bay. Lucas offers a regular drop-in meditation, Tuesdays from 7 – 8 p.m. No experience necessary. For more information call 250-923-4281.
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The driving range
Swinging in to Spring by Bill Kelly, Glacier Greens Golf Club
CVHRG
It’s the time of year when fair weather golfers consider taking their clubs out of the closet and knocking off the rust. Once you have dug to the back of the closet and pulled out those clubs there will be a couple of things you will want to do before you hit the driving range. Inspect your clubs The last thing you need to start the golf season is to have a club head fall off or have a club slip out of you hands because the grip is slick. 1. Put one hand on the grip and one hand on the club head and twist. If you don’t feel any movement you are good. 2. Have a look at the shaft, especially if it is graphite. Are there any nicks or kinks in the shaft? Has the shaft started slipping away from the club head? 3. Give your grips a good scrub with warm water and soap, unless they are a Winn grip. If the grips are tacky after they dry then you are OK. If they are still slippery you may need to re-grip them. Having slippery grips can cause excessive grip pressure, which can cause a number of problems in your golf swing. If you have any questions on these steps or need any repairs, can contact me at Glacier Greens or see your local CPGA professional. Get your body ready. The golf swing is not a natural motion for the body. As such, it can strain areas we are not used to. The same thing happens when we skate for the first time of the season. We are usually sore in places we didn’t know we had muscles. I recommend stretching at home before and after playing golf or hitting the driving range. There are a number of websites to find stretches. Be sure to consult your physician, physiotherapist or fitness expert to set up a program that works for you.
So you have inspected your clubs and prepared your body to hit some balls. Here are three steps to follow at the driving range. 1. Before hitting any balls do a small warm up. Maybe some arm circles, shoulder shrugs, anything to loosen up and get the blood pumping. 2. Don’t start with the Big Dog (driver). This is a great way to start your season out with an injury. Start by hitting a wedge and gradually work your way in to longer clubs ending with the driver once you are warm and loose. 3. Work on the basics of the set up. By working on basics your body is in a position to start the golf swing. This doesn’t always mean we will hit a good shot but it will give us the best opportunity to hit a good shot. If you are not set up correctly it will create all sorts of swing flaws, which may be hard to fix. Work on your posture, stance, alignment and grip. If you have any questions or are not sure what to work on in your golf game contact your local CPGA professional to book a lesson. Until next time, good golfing! Dr. Bill Kelly is the Head Professional at Glacier Greens Golf Club. For more information call 250-3396515 or visit www.glaciergreens.com.
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9
Exploring The Benefits of... by Martha Godman
I have fond memories of my paternal grandmother back home in Greece. Somehow, no matter what ailed me, she instinctively knew how to make the pain go away. Grandma Martha was a midwife in her younger years. I’m not sure how much formal training she had received prior to entering this rewarding field, but most women had their babies at home back then. Martha was the woman they trusted for their prenatal care, and their labour and delivery. She had 12 children of her own as well to keep her on her toes, my father being the oldest and boldest of them all. Whenever I came down with a childhood illness, grandma would dash to the kitchen to brew some chamomile, dictamnus or oregano tea. She didn’t have much need for a medicine cabinet because most of her cures could be found outside in her garden. My grandma was one of the first people to introduce me to herbal remedies and essential oils. Over the years she had a notebook filled with her own special blends and recipes, and she often encouraged me to browse its pages. To prevent infection from a cut, she would put a drop or two of onycha oil and gently rub it on the site. Just one drop of the same oil mixed in a teaspoon of
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Herbal Remedies and Essential Oils honey also worked well for a sore throat. For bronchitis she used eucalyptus, thyme or peppermint. If someone in grandma’s house was in the mood for arguing, she would mix a few drops of hyssop oil in a glass of water and spray it around a room to get rid of the negative emotions. What a lady. For every ailment she had a remedy, and strangely enough, I don’t ever recall my grandmother buying anything from a pharmacy. “I use the earth’s original medicine and you should too!” she’d say with a smile. It sounded to me that Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician – known as the father of medicine – was my grandmother’s inspiration and motivation. I recall her revealing to me of how Hippocrates used herbs to heal the sick. She pointed out that Hippocrates believed that sickness and disease was the end result of how we live our lives. Grandmother believed that using herbal teas, spices and essential oils was not only beneficial to our health, but it could help eliminate certain problems, provided we use them properly and with care. Essential oils are the active liquids derived from stems, leaves, roots, bark, seeds and flowers of plants. The beneficial substances in essential oils are believed to fight off disease and help with restoring emotional balance and a feeling of well-being. Today a large variety of essential oils can be purchased commercially, but that can be expensive. If you choose to buy, find a reputable manufacturer. All essential oils are not equal. For those who have the time, home-made essential oil production is another alternative. It takes some time and effort but it will save you money. You will need to do some reading on the subject, and bear in mind that although essential oils rarely produce side effects, they should be used with caution. Anyone with a health problem such as epilepsy, cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease, allergies or other chronic ailments, including women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should first consult their health care practitioner before using herbal remedies and essential oils. Making your own essential oils is not rocket science. Once you have gained some knowledge and confidence you will need some basics to start with. A base oil such as olive, safflower or almond will be needed along with fresh-picked herbs. You will also need a few containers, a rolling pin and cheesecloth for straining. Herbs must be picked just prior to blossoming. They lose their potency once they start to blossom. Make sure what you are gathering is free of bugs or any type of chemical.
Rinse the plant with clear water and pat dry on paper towel. Place one cup of herbs or flowers in a plastic storage bag and bruise them with a small mallet or rolling pin. Damage the leaves and petals just enough to release oils. Prepare a clean jar with one cup of a good base oil, such as olive oil. Next, add the bruised flowers or herbs to the oil and seal the container. Let the mixture steep in a warm area for 24 to 48 hours. Keep it out of direct sunlight. Strain the flowers and herbs with a piece of cheese cloth. Return the oil to the jar and discard the used herbs. Repeat the process using fresh picked herbs, bruising flowers and herbs, adding them to the oil and steeping the mixture for 24 to 48 hours. Do it at least three more times or until the oil reaches the desired degree of fragrance. Throughout history essential oils have played an important role. The ancient cultures used them as perfumes, incense and also for healing purposes. Now is a good time to start discovering how they can benefit you.
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Growing A Medicine Garden by Chanchal Cabrera MSc, FNIMH This mild winter we are having feels like spring. Snowdrops are up, daffodils are showing and flocks of little birds are calling and swooping through the sky. I am always excited at this time of year as I pore over the seed catalogues, imagining my summer gardens, smelling the sweet flowers, and forgetting the hours of weeding on my hands and knees to prepare and maintain the beds. The secret for a lazy gardener like me is to choose plants that maximize their value, plants that give a lot. I always choose perennials. Although slower to establish in a garden, clumps of perennials need little tending, save splitting root balls every few years. Many perennials get tall with sturdy stems and make good cutting flowers. If you grow annuals, choose the ones that self-seed like calendula (marigold) and California poppy. Be sure not to harvest so heavily that you don’t leave enough seed heads. Remember the adage about the right plant in the right place at the right depth and with the right water. Plant it well and your work is half done. Consider your garden or planting area carefully and put plants where they will thrive. Make note of garden areas and of plant needs, then match them: • Full sun, partial sun, dappled shade, full shade • North/south exposure
Wes Gietz
• Well drained/moist • Front, middle or back of bed (short, medium or tall plant) • Seasons of visual interest • Frequency of use (proximity to house) • Like uses grouped together (e.g. culinary, first aid, perfume) • Like colours co-ordinated Harvesting and using your plants Many medicinal plants can be harvested and turned into effective remedies. Pick leaves and flowering tops when the plant is at its peak, before falling of petals, ripening of seed, or browning of leaves. Pick seeds when ripe. Cut branches for barks and dig roots in fall or spring when energy and vital force is strongest. Cut or break herbs into small pieces, trying not to bruise plant tissues. Dry herbs on racks suspended for good air movement, or on sheets on the floor. Protect from direct sunlight and try to create air flow to speed drying. Store herbs in airtight jars, away from heat and light. Some medicinal plants that are easy to grow in our climate
California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) A self-seeding, annual, brilliant orange with feathery, light green foliage. Good ground cover and filler in a bed. Low growing so plant near the front of beds. Likes full sun. Long season of interest. Harvest the tops (flowers, buds, leaves, stems, seed pods).
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COMOX
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A gentle but effective sedative and hypnotic. Calms the mind, relaxes muscles, alleviates spasms.
Selfheal (Prunella vulgaris) A perennial with a low, dense mounding growth of dark purple green leaves and spikes of bright purple flowers. Common in woodlands of the Comox Valley, growing along path edges and clearings. Can handle a lot of shade and moisture. Harvest the tops. Promotes skin healing and repair when applied topically as a poultice from fresh, mashed plant material.
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) A tall, graceful flower and excellent cutting flower for vases. Likes sun and well-drained soil. Perennial. Harvest tops annually. Harvest roots every third year. Replant root crowns for continued growth; rotate through beds or areas every third year. Echinacea stimulates activity of white blood cells responsible for fighting infection. Unlike antibiotics, echinacea makes own immune cells more efficient at attacking bacteria, viruses and abnormal cells, including cancer cells. It increases the number and activity of immune system cells including anti-tumor cells, promotes T-cell activation, stimulates new tissue growth for wound healing and modulates inflammation.
Goldenrod (Solidago sp.) Several species of goldenrod are indigenous to Canada. All are medicinal. A tall, elegant, perennial plant with plumes of golden flowers opening late in the season and giving good fall colour and drama in the garden. It likes full sun or light shade. Harvest leaves and flower buds just before opening. Use as a tea for sinus congestion and stuffiness including allergies and asthma. It is also a drainage herb for kidneys, bladder and prostate in cases of inflammation or congestion/stagnation. Chanchal has been a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (UK) since 1987 and obtained her MSc in herbal medicine at the University of Wales in 2003. Her clinical specialty is helping people manage cancer and chronic disease. Chanchal has held the faculty
chair in botanical medicine at the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine in New Westminster since 2004. She serves on the board of advisors of Dominion Herbal College in Burnaby, on the editorial board of medical herbalism clinical newsletter, publishes in professional journals, and lectures internationally on medical herbalism, nutrition and health. She is the author of Fibromyalgia – A Journey Toward Healing. She is a certified master gardener and horticulture therapist. In 2013, she was granted a diploma in botanic garden management from Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Chanchal lives in Royston where she and her husband run a seven-acre botanic garden, run therapy gardens for people with disabilities, and host internships in organic farming and herbal medicine. In 2009, Chanchal was honored with a fellowship in the NIMH for service to the profession over 25 years.
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Why Forgiveness? by Alice Grange
OCEAN RESORT
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The British poet, Alexander Pope wrote “To err is human: to forgive, divine.”
I only came to understand the power of these words when I put 2014 Event Calendar them into practice. One of Dynamic Neural Training with Annie Hopper, May 15 - 20, the most self-healing things July 1 - 5, and August 10 - 15 ~ A new paradigm in healing. I ever did was visit my training with annie Hopper May 22nd to 26th, 2013 www.dnrsystem.com estranged mother’s hospital healing as we discover the link between brain function and optimal health. For Living your Soul Guided Life with Laurel Geise, May 23 - 24 ~ bedside when she was in Experience life-changing techniques to consciously connect with ease visit www.dnrsystem.com. your soul. www.laurelgeise.com the process of dying. I did The Frequencies of Healing with Jonathan & Andi Goldman, this partly to acknowledge my own role in our painful a newMay Conversation: May 31st to June 1, 2013 30 - June 1 ~ Explore the use of sound for healing and dynamic but, more importantly, to forgive my mother transformation. www.healingsounds.com e with Sebastian and myself. The sense of relief remains profound to this Yoga Retreat with Traceyand Noseworthy, 6 - 8 the ~ Meditation, e circle, open your palms receive.June Allow energy to flood your system day, more than a and decade later. Forgiving allowed me to Detoxifying Flow, Restorative practice, and a Vinyasa sequences. e of well-being and vibrational harmony. or go to www. For more info contact april.mcneil@gmail.com release anger, judgment and frustration. What remains are understanding, compassion and relief, again, for us n see traceynoseworthy.com www.divinegrace.com. Raw Food Immersion with RawRose, June 27 - 30 ~ Enjoy both.
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June 14th to 22nd, Here are 102013 good reasons to consider bringing hef and Author of the Canadian Bestseller “Uncooking With RawRose – Your Satsang with Pamela Wilson, July 6 - 12 ~ A gathering forgiveness in your life. of friends,her where the sage in each ofCulinary us is honoured: www. ”, is offering popular RawRose Arts Program. 1. Most importantly, forgiveness is a gift to yourself. It frees pamelasatsang.com
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you forgive yourself for enduring painful experiences and and Joy with Panache Desai, August 15 - 22 ~ An 8-day Transformational Exploration, A weekend of awakening and a not having loved yourself enough to move away from those immersion. www.panachedesai.com with 6-day Pamela Wilson July situations, 13th to 18th, 2013 free to move forward, unencumbered you become The Painting Experience with Annie Rousseau, August 23rd resentments or shame is a gathering of friends where everything and everyone is by indeed welcome and of the past. – 28th ~ Journey into the wild territory of painting from intuition: us is honoured. For more information see www.pamelasatsang.com. 2. Forgiveness gives us present day permission to create www.processarts.com
our futures, based on what we want, not on what has gone accepting what is, or was, and becoming willing to re-consider the meaning of what has your deepest truth. www.yogainnerspirit.com ce to rejuvenate your health while embracing the opportunity for self-realization. happened. You heard, saw and felt what happened and you n visit www.rawfamily.com/events or www.rawfamily.com. cannot change those experiences. What you can do is stop Ongoing Events believing those experiences have left you broken, damaged and forgiveness comes a shift in perception 16thwounded. to 23rd,With 2013 Drop In Meditation with Lucas Stiefvater, Tuesdays, august 7pm about yourself and others. ~ one hour meditation. For more information, contact: info@ Yoga and Journal Writing Retreat with Angela Wiens,
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> August 16th, 2-hour Evening Introductory 7:00 - 9:00 pm oceanresort.ca 3. Forgiveness releases energy stuck in the past. If we you toKripalu the vibrational fieldMoelart, of potential and9am ignites the spark of awakening you and feelings on painful incidents Yoga with Nancy Thursdays, & 6:15pm repeatedly focus thoughts ~ Great for beginners! Thursdays 6:15 pm to 7:45 pm – All levels! he Best Western Hotel and Convention Centre, Courtenay. from our pasts, it takes a toll on our emotional well-being and www.shoresofserendipityyoga.com physical health. Letting go of this energy often results in the
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14 CV Health & Recreation Guide
see reverse for more events >>>
5. Forgiving past indiscretions relieves us of chronic anger, frustration and embarrassment. We all make mistakes. Holding onto mistakes ensures we repeat them. Forgiving and letting go permits us to feel peace, relief and resolution. 6. Forgiveness means giving yourself a break. It does not mean you must change your behaviour or accept another’s. Forgiveness can result in the ending of a long battle with yourself and living with greater compassion, self-respect and esteem. If someone has robbed you, forgiveness does not mean you give them the keys to the safe. If someone has criticized or betrayed you, there is no need to continue to confide in them or to ever be in their company again. 7. Forgiveness helps find the freedom to move on unencumbered, able to create more loving and joyful relationships. Forgiveness can be a private affair and it is never too late. All that is required is a shift in perception. You can forgive others without them ever knowing it. It is possible to forgive someone even if they have died, or are unwilling to talk to you, or you are unwilling to talk to them, for fear that putting yourself in their presence will put you in harm’s way.
understand and accept that we are responsible for how we feel and act, we empower ourselves. If we indulge in recurring resentments, never attempting to understand another’s perspective, or refuse to see the larger picture, we avoid acknowledging the potential power we have to change our relationship to the situation. As long as we see the problem as exclusively outside ourselves, as long as we refuse to accept any part of our complicity in a difficult dynamic, we render ourselves helpless. By taking responsibility for our mistakes, we release the hold that shame and regret have had on us.
For assistance in learning how to forgive contact alice@tappingdetective.com, vista www. tappingdetective.com or call 250-702-7570.
8. Forgiveness does not mean pretending that all is well. In order to forgive it is not necessary to condone negative, inappropriate behaviour of others, or yourself. You don’t have to accept or support anything that has caused pain. You can protect your rights, testify at a trial, and still forgive the perpetrator. You can move out, divorce your spouse, no longer subject yourself to abuse, and still give yourself a break by forgiving. You can forgive relatives or a friend for being critical and choose not to confide in them. 9. By forgiving, we give ourselves permission to move on. Resentment come from the French word Ressentir: to feel strongly and to feel again. By holding onto resentments we continue to hurt ourselves, again and again and again.
Pain is Inevitable. Suffering is Optional.
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Matters of Aging Nursing Foot Care Keeps You Active & On Your Feet by Anne Lai, LPN Originally feet were designed to last 25-30 years before their owners succumbed to a sabre-tooth tiger or some other affliction. Nowadays, people are living well into their 90s after spending most of their lives walking on hard surfaces with shoes that are more fashion than function.
Why is foot care important?
Although most people are born with healthy feet, as we grow older, three out of four Canadians will develop a foot problem that requires medical attention. • Regular foot care plays an important role in keeping you healthy and remaining active. • Feet that are healthy and pain-free help keep balance which may help prevent falls. • Foot-related problems may result in a loss of independence and well- being.
Image from Metro Creative A foot care nurse:
• Understands the structure and function of the foot. • Understands diseases such as diabetes and poor circulation and how they affect the foot. • Follows strict infection control standards for cleaning and sterilizing instruments or uses ‘single use instruments.’ • Is aware of health and safety while providing foot care. • Works closely with other health care professionals and makes appropriate referrals. • Participates in educational opportunities to maintain and enhance competencies and keeps up to date on nursings’ best practice. • Is responsible and accountable for their actions.
Foot care may be provided at home, in residential care, at a clinic or in hospital. A percentage of nursing foot care services may be covered by some health insurance plans such as Great West Life, Sun-Life or Veteran’s Affairs. Receipts are issued and may be applied to the medical deduction portion of personal income tax.
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The role of the foot care nurse Prevention
• Promote the maintenance of healthy feet.
Advocacy
• Promote foot health and mobility. • Promote community resources. • Promote family involvement.
Treatment Nursing foot care includes:
• A nursing health assessment including an assessment of the foot and lower extremities. • Nail cutting and filing. • Management and care of corns, calluses and in-grown toenails. • Working with clients to compile a plan on preventative measures. • Ongoing nursing assessment and evaluation. • Identifying the need for specialized treatments and referring to appropriate resources.
Education
• Providing clients and caregivers with information specific to foot care, changes to the foot, footwear, the importance of exercise and proper nutrition. • Providing handouts.
A foot care nurse is a regulated professional who has received education specific to the foot and lower limbs and practices according to their scope of practice.
FUNERAL PLANNING Introducing Rosemarie Clark Certified Pre-arrangement Counselor
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A foot care nurse is registered with a regulatory body. In B.C. this is the College of LPNs, the College of RNs and the College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses. On their receipt, beside their name will be a number which proves they are a nurse.
Do’s and don’ts to Promote Healthy Feet
Do wear proper fitting shoes that are supportive. Do elevate your feet when sitting. Do walk. It is a great way to increase circulation, prevent blood clots and keep bones and muscles healthy. Do buy shoes later in the afternoon as feet may swell a bit over the day. Do wash and dry your feet everyday, especially between the toes. Do check your feet daily for cuts, bruises and blisters. Don’t soak your feet in standing water if you are diabetic, have poor circulation, have dry skin or are an older adult. Don’t wear tight socks, elastic or knee high stockings that restrict circulation. Don’t cross your legs when sitting. Don’t smoke, which decreases circulation and healing, and increases the risk of amputations. Don’t ignore foot pains. Don’t use over-the-counter preparations to treat corns, calluses and warts. Don’t treat ingrown toenails, calluses or corns with scissors or a razor. See a foot care nurse instead.
Anne Lai LPN is a foot care nurse who has practised in the Valley since 2002. She is the chair for Policies & Procedures for the Canadian Association of Foot Care Nurses and a member of the North Island Foot Care Nurses Group.
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CV Health & Recreation Guide
17
Matters of Aging Cont...
Wellbeings 55+ Group by Karen Holton BSW, Lifestyle Coach Welcome to the wonderful world of alternative and integrative healing.
Now in our second year, Wellbeings 55+ Group continues to meet on the second Wednesday of each month, 1 p.m. at the Courtenay Railway Station. As we grow and share what we are learning with others, we plan to continue to be a positive influence in the Comox Valley for 2014.
The primary purpose of our group is to upskill seniors 55 and older who are interested in learning about alternative and integrative healing techniques, and who wish to experience a greater degree of wellbeing. The secondary purpose is to provide support and community for seniors who wish to elevate their states of well-being through alternative or integrative healing modalities.Â
We have a different speaker each month. So far we have covered reiki, iridology, BodyTalk, biorhythm, raw
18 CV Health & Recreation Guide
foods, live blood cell analysis and several aspects of the healthy lifestyle. Each month I produce a newsletter, which I distribute in hardcopy and PDF to reiterate details of information presented at meetings for ongoing learning. Since wellbeing involves many components, future speakers will cover topics like tai chi for seniors, art therapy, homeopathic medicine, reflexology and full spectrum detoxification techniques.
In addition, referrals and services are provided by the facilitator on a donation basis, when requested. This group is run on the kind donations received from members. Call Karen to have your name added to the group list, to reserve a seat at the next meeting, or to receive our newsletter via email. Join us March 12, April 9 and May 14 at 1 pm. Article by Karen Holton, BSW, Lifestyle Coach. Email: karenholton@shaw.ca or Phone: (250) 871-1722
Aging & Fitness by Sarah Seads
Aging is part of life
We cannot stop chronological age from progressing year after year. We can, however, slow down the speed of biological aging through changes to lifestyle including physical fitness. Working in fitness and health for close to 20 years, I have seen 80-year-olds as active and fit as 50-yearolds. I have also seen far too many 50-year-olds acting as if they are 80-plus and giving into the negative idea of ‘being too old for___’ .
“You are only old once age becomes your excuse” is a fantastic quote from endurance coach and 70-year-old athlete Joe Friel. You are only as old as you think and act, and you have the power to slow down the aging process and maintain health and fitness well into your 80s.
Research has shown that physical activity can not only slow down the biological aging process, but that it can actually improve fitness well into our 70s, 80s and beyond. The body is an amazing machine that responds to specific and progressive training stimulus by rebuilding stronger - at any age.
Of course, we all undergo biological changes as we age. Over time, changes to hormone production and cellular processes occur. The result is a gradual loss of muscle mass, decreased bone density and loss of elasticity in the tissues. This will, over time, lead to functional changes such as loss of speed, endurance, strength, balance and agility. However, the rate and severity of these changes vary from person to person. Lifestyle choices, training regimes and genetics play a role in this process.
Many researchers have concluded that the major contributor to decline in fitness and functional abilities is not age but lifestyle, especially reduced strenuous activity. They believe the physiologylifestyle balance is around 30-70. In other words, 70 per cent of lowered performance may be explained by changes in lifestyle (training) with changes due to aging accounting for only 30 per cent. That should make you very excited! You have 70 per cent control over changes occurring to your fitness.
The benefits
Regular exercise has been shown to result in many significant physiological benefits that can keep us younger longer, at any age. • Regulated blood glucose levels
• Improved hormone production • Improved sleep
• Improved stamina through aerobic endurance
• Improved strength through muscle building exercise • Improved flexibility through mobility exercise
• Improved balance, co-ordination, agility and re-action time • Improved weight and blood lipid management • Decreased blood pressure
• Improved pulmonary/lung function
• Increased functional abilities and independence later in life Continued on Page 29...
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Turn Off the Computer – Harmful to Your Health? by Heather Hodge, Registered Physiotherapist Repetitive Strain injury is a catch-all phrase describing a variety of conditions caused by repetitious activity. Diagnoses like tennis elbow, tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome fall into this category. But other conditions could be considered repetitive strain injury, some caused by spending too much time on the computer, tablet, smart phone or other device. Repetitive strain injuries fall into two categories. The first has signs or symptoms fitting syndromes such as carpal tunnel or tennis elbow. The second is more difficult to define and signs/symptoms can be vague or obscure. Complaints do not fit a definite pattern, there is nothing much for the untrained eye to see, no specific swelling, muscle spasm, no tendinitis, no weakness or cramping, but they can cause unpleasant or potentially catastrophic effects if left untreated and if the sufferer continues with the offending activities. Symptoms might include headache or diffuse pain in the upper back, neck, shoulders, arms or hands. There may be pain, tingling or numbness radiating down the arm or in the hand, initially mild and transient but becoming more unpleasant and longer lasting or even constant. These types of symptoms are caused by compression of nerve tissue between the hand and neck. There are
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many localized sites of potential entrapment. Nerve tissue is greedy; it requires a rich blood supply to conduct properly. If circulation is compromised, it will let you know quickly. When you sit on your foot too long or when you whack your funny bone you feel the unpleasant tingle, indicating nerve conduction is temporarily diminished. If you have these types of symptoms in your arm or hand, they are a signal for you to change position, shake your arm, or at least stop what you are doing. Tingling or numbness may not be unpleasant initially but needs to be respected, as it may worsen if ignored. One problem is that early symptoms tend to be transient, they come and go and it may not be apparent what is causing them. Who is at risk? As mentioned, those who work long hours on computers are at risk. So are office workers, musicians, craftspeople, athletes and anyone who performs repetitive tasks, particularly in ergonomically poor or cool environments. Why does this happen to some people and not others? The damage may be cumulative, so those who have had previous injury such as whiplash or a shoulder separation may be more at risk. Slouching posture is also a risk factor. Bodies are brilliant at adapting to different situations. However, over time we add too many stressors and it starts to complain. Problems are not caused by one or two episodes of sitting too long or bending over the screen for that few extra minutes. They are the result of hours, days, months or years of cumulative stress on the upper body. Here are some tips for safe and healthy computer use: • Ergonomics are very important: the body is happiest in anatomical neutral. • Work at the correct height: keyboard should be level with elbows, so forearms are approximately horizontal. The monitor should be at eye level.
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• Avoid working in a twisted position, where the monitor and keyboard/mouse are on different parts of the desk. • Avoid holding the phone in the crook of your neck – obtain a hands-free headset for the office.
• Choose seating carefully. Chairs should support the pelvis and spine and not facilitate slouching. Arm rests are for rests, not working. They can cause pressure on forearms. Check your chair; it may have adjustable seat, arm and back height and tilt. • Gel supports for wrists are for resting, not working. They can put pressure on wrists and contribute to carpal tunnel problems. • Wrist position should be neutral, not cocked up, down or bent sideways. • Eyesight: If the lettering on the screen is too small you will crane your neck. If working on a document or tablet, increase font size or expand the screen so you can see clearly from a suitable distance. Alternatively, use reading glasses. • Take short breaks or rotate tasks to vary your position.
regarding posture and ergonomics, manual therapy, and exercise prescription for stability and strength. Exercise as therapy is individualized and will help in long-term symptom management. The good news is, repetitive strain is treatable. The bad news is it took a long time to develop and will take a while to undo. Using exercise or posture as treatment or prevention is not a quick fix, but effects are lasting. Consider pilates, yoga or tai chi, which all focus on correct alignment. Useful web sites: http://cupe.ca/rsi/repetitive-strain-injuries and http://www.worksafebc.com/publications/health_ and_safety/by_topic/assets/pdf/comptr_wrkstn.pdf Heather Hodge is a registered physiotherapist
at Bodyworx Physiotherapy and Pilates in Comox. She can be reached at 250 339 5540.
• Beware of excessive repetitions, for example, with the mouse. Vary tasks by using Alt or F keys for variety. • Shoulder tension can be a contributing factor. Take short stretch breaks and do backwards shoulder circles. If symptoms persist, see a professional. It is not a good idea to resort to painkillers as a first choice. Masking the symptoms will encourage you to keep doing what is causing the problem. Consult a physiotherapist or professional bodyworker. Treatment should include assessment, education
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Rescue Me! by Van Isle Veterinary Hospital new owners do not know the full extent of the disease until they return home and have bonded with the pet. To make an informed decision you should take your newly rescued pet to a veterinarian before leaving the country. If this is not possible, it is recommended to visit a vet shortly upon arrival. Early detection and treatment is often effective, and is an easy treatment. Mexico, Cuba, Costa Rica and even many southern U.S. states are warm destinations to escape the rainy, pre-spring blues. The Comox Valley is no stranger to the wonderful canines that are rescued while their newly acquired owners are on vacation. Those exotic places seem to be bursting with needy pups looking for a home. Although it’s never a bad thing to rescue a dog, there are a few things that new owners should keep in mind when adopting a pet from an exotic location. Southern climates can be home to many disease vectors that we don’t see this far northwest. The most common illness is tick-borne diseases such as erlichia, anaplasma, babesia, mycoplasma, and lyme disease. These bacterial diseases are carried by the deer tick or brown dog tick. The tick transmits bacteria through its saliva. After an incubation period (1- 3 weeks) the disease spreads from the bite site to the spleen, liver and lymph nodes. Symptoms to watch for are fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, swollen joints, nose bleeds, lethargy and depression. Severe cases may include vomiting, diarrhea or even seizures. Often the poor pup has these symptoms at the time of rescue, and
Page Sock Soiree
Another common and potentially deadly disease in animals from neighboring warmer climates is heartworm disease. This can be detected through a blood test and treated successfully. However, other diseases that can result from neglect and malnutrition, which is often the case with a rescue, can be harder to diagnose and take a significant amount of time to control. Keep in mind, sick pets will need time to recover and rebuild strength. Owners must be vigilant with regular blood work to detect recurrences. Sometimes taking on a rescued dog or cat involves a life-long commitment for disease monitoring. Owners at times don’t get a chance to see their new pet’s true personality until they have fully recovered from their condition. This true personality can sometimes turn out to be a difficult one, but for the most part, rescued pets can make a loving, happy, loyal member of the family. It can be gratifying to rescue an animal, but more importantly the bond you create can be of mutual benefit for many years. Contact Van Isle Veterinary Clinic at 250-334-8400
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An Excess of 1,000 Caves by Bill Coltart, Pacific Pro Dive
Located on the West Coast of Canada, Vancouver Island is the largest island in the Pacific, east of New Zealand. The island is 290 miles long and 50 miles at it’s widest, covering some 12,500 square miles. Approximately four per cent of the total surface of the island is karst, a geological formation formed by dissolution of layers of bedrock. As a result there are in excess of 1,000 caves, more than the rest of Canada combined.
of Canadian and American cave divers led by longtime caver, Peter Norris, spent two days hauling hundreds of pounds of dive gear nearly a mile from a rough logging road to a tiny hole in the centre of the riverbed, where it was hoped they would find a system large enough to dive. Well not only did they find a cave, they had discovered what might prove to be the most significant underwater cave system in Canada.
The caves on Vancouver Island are well developed due to significant rainfall, dense vegetation and mountainous terrain. As a result there is a mixture of active dry and underwater cave systems, most of which are relatively unexplored.
During a week of exploration the group was able to survey approximately 1,700 feet of smooth, whitecolored stone passages averaging approximately 30 feet deep until the main 15-foot wide passage arrives at the drop known as ‘the chimney.’ This 20-foot wide, perfectly round tube drops from 30 to nearly 85 feet then proceeds horizontally again over a wide bedding plane. The group was able to capture some fantastic documentary video and subsequently named the cave Wet Dreams.
One such cave is near the tiny village of Zeballos on the island’s northwest side. This cave had been on our radar for a number of years due to the fact that in summer months a large river disappears, leaving only a dry riverbed before reappearing again some 1.5 miles downstream.
After a dry summer of 2013, my caving partner
In the summer of 2012, a joint expedition
Continued on page 24
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“An Excess of 1,000 Caves ” continued from page 23... and I made our way to the area in an effort to carve a quad trail through the forest so that gear could be easily transported to the cave entrance. Once completed, we made arrangements to carry on where the previous group had left off. In midSeptember we arrived for a week-long expedition, with a mountain of equipment including two camper trailers, three ATV’s, two generators, Hollis Prism 2 Rebreathers, Dive X Cuda 650 scooters and dozens of stage bottles. The plan for the week was to explore some side passages, which the previous divers had marked for us, and to see how far we could push the main passage with our supped-up scooters. Little did we know what we would find in the coming days. During the third day of diving we decided to proceed down a pair of narrow vertical shafts. These smooth limestone passages lead from 20 feet straight down to over 140 feet, and continued down in a zig zag pattern. As we were already two hours into the dive we tied off the line to return another time. There is still plenty of swiss cheese passage left to check out on this expedition.
After an entire evening of contemplating our final dive, the decision was made to push the main passage as far as possible. We made sure the scooters and lights were fully charged, stage bottles were topped off and remainder of the gear was double checked. Early the following morning, we proceeded into the tiny entrance hole, mounted our stage bottles, clipped on the scooters and off we went into the blackness. After 45 minutes of cruising through the smooth light-colored passage there was a sudden change in scenery. The fantastically clear water and smooth passage suddenly changed to murky, dark, volcanic-like jagged rock, which seemed to suck in our light. Visibility deteriorated from over 100 to less than 20 feet in just a few minutes, however we made the decision to press on. After about 15 minutes of scootering it became apparent that we had again passed into another bedding plane as the rock lightened and visibility improved. At the two hour mark the passage began to take a sudden turn back up towards the surface. We were unsure at this point how far we were in or where it would lead, but we knew we were running out of time. At the 20-foot mark we decided to stop and decompress for a few minutes on oxygen before
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Thinking Thinking Import? Import Impor Think Think Again Again 100
the long trip back to the cave entrance. After a few Finan%ceOACFinan%ceOAC minutes of sitting in the narrow passage I noted APR 9APR m1.9 from1. that a few feet ahead my bubbles were rippling froat the surface. I decided to leave the stage bottles and scooter with my buddy and squeeze up to scout this FinanF%cineOAaCn%ceOAC apparent dry space. Much to my surprise I came face APR APR from1.9from1.9 to face with a six-inch cricket perched on a boulder. It was as shocked to see me as I was him. This was Finan%ceOAC APR indeed a vertical dry passage, likely quite close to from1.9 the surface.
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After finishing the preliminary surveys we are excited to find that we’re over 4,200 feet in, at maximum depth of 145 feet. There is nothing quite as exciting as meeting all your mission objectives and leaving knowing there is more to come!
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2014 2014 CHEVROLET CHEVROLET CRUZE CRU 2014 2014 CHEVROLET CHEVROLET CRUZE CRUZE CLEAN CLEAN DIESEL DIESEL Bill Coltart, owner of Pacific Pro Dive, can be
reached at 250-338-6829 or at bill@scubashark.com.
CLEAN CLEAN DIESEL DIESEL 2014 CHEVROLET CRUZE CLEAN DIESEL ✔ Cruze ✔ Cruze diesels diesels have been have been sold worldwide sold worldwide since since 2011,2011, now available now available 2014 2014 CHEVROLET CHEVROLET CRUZE CRUZE
✔ EPA says ✔2014 EPA says Cruze2014 2.0TD Cruze will 2.0TD have best will fuel haveeconomy best fuel econom ✔ ✔says EPA 2014 says 2014 Cruze Cruze 2.0TD2.0TD will have will have fuel besteconomy fuel available economy ofEPA any non-hybrid of any non-hybrid passenger passenger carbest available car of anyofnon-hybrid non-hybrid passenger passenger car available available ✔ Cruze diesels ✔ Cruze have diesels beenany have sold worldwide been sold worldwide sincecar2011, since now2011, available now av
✔ EPA saysCRUZE 2014CRUZE Cruze 2.0TD will have best fuelJETTA economy CRUZE CRUZE JETTA COMFORTLIN JETTA COM JETTA COMFORTLINE COMFORTLINE Your 2.0TD 2.0TD passenger TDI-AUTO TDI-AUTO 2.0TD 2.0TD TDI-AUTO TDI-AUTO of any non-hybrid car available CLEAN CLEAN DIESEL DIESEL Your destination destination for for grocery grocery ✔ Cruze diesels been sold 2.0TD worldwide since 2011, now available 2.0L turbo diesel 2.0L16V turbo diesel ✔✔ 16V ✔ Cruze ✔ ✔ ✔ EPA EPAhave says says2014 2014 Cruze 2.0TDwill willhave have best best fuel fueleconomy economy shopping ofofany any non-hybridpassenger passengercar caravailable available DOHC DOHC ✔ ✔non-hybrid ✘ ✘ CRUZE JETTA COMFORTLINE shopping in in the the ✔Cruze Cruze diesels diesels have been soldworldwide worldwidesince since140 2011, 2011, now available available Horsepower/Max Horsepower/Max Torque ✔ 148 Torque hp / 2.0TD 280have lb./ft. 148been hp / sold 280 lb./ft. hpnow / 236 lb./ft. 140 hp / 236 lb./ft TDI-AUTO Comox Valley 6-speed auto trans. 6-speed auto trans. Included Included Included Included Comox Valley
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You The touch of a soft sweater against your skin, freshly warm from the dryer on a cold winter day. Heavenly!
Touch is the mother of all senses and both a noun and a verb. As a word, it is a challenger for the record when it comes to having the most thesaurus entries. Like brush, caress, cuddle, embrace and feel. Or pat, pet, rub, scratch and stroke. Or nudge. Or poke.
It can produce a myriad of reactions - pleasure or pain, arousal or annoyance. Touch is the first sense established in the developing embryo. Long before we can see, hear, smell or taste, we can respond to touch. Sensory input from the skin informs the central nervous system, guiding its development, maintenance and evolution. If an infant is deprived of touch they will waste away and die. Adults denied human contact suffer emotional and cognitive impairment. Touch is woven into the fabric of human life and culture. And it has an important role to play in health care. Touch is the most basic form of communication between living things and it raises the fact that each party gets and gives information. A hands-on approach to examination and treatment of neuromusculoskeletal complaints is indispensable. When your health care provider palpates your body they are assessing the temperature, tension, texture and turgor of tissues, determining the play and extensibility of joints, muscles and tendons. While the practitioner gains vital information on the patient’s health status, the patient gets information on the practitioner’s personality, attentiveness, compassion and skill.
When it comes to health and well-being, hands-on professionals can provide invaluable care. A healing touch causes oxytocin to be released from the pituitary gland. This hormone plays a role in forming social bonds – cementing the ties that bind us. Touch is a powerful thing. It can incite profound relaxation, calm jangled nerves, reassure an injured child, excite our senses and soothe our souls. We can all benefit from the care of healing hands. Dr. Dawn Armstrong can be reached at (250) 465-8482.
Paradoxical Law of Change by Chris Bruels “When you accept something as it is, it receive, their motor centre allows the old pattern to change. changes.” Paradoxes confound our logical reasoning. They ask us to bring two concepts that seem contradictory together into an inseparable relationship.
A familiar example is the Catch 22: A situation in which someone is in need of something that can only be had by not being in need of it. In a similar manner, linking ‘acceptance’ with ‘change’ challenges many of our cultural beliefs. Generally, when we want to change something, acceptance is limited to figuring out what is wrong. Then we can go to ‘work’ on changing it. The Paradoxical Law of Change proposes a different approach to change.
In my field of expertise, Trager® Somatic Body Therapy, I am continually working with this paradox. One of my focuses is to change how the client’s body is co-ordinated so they can feel relief from injury compensations and poor posture. I use specific movement created with my hands to communicate with the nervous system and movement pattern/motor centre of the brain. By observing movements that I create, I can find restrictions in the client’s body that I want to change.
The power of this paradox becomes evident as I back off from broader movements to create ones that are smaller and softer. The conversation I am having with the client’s brain motor centre is, “I feel the restriction you have here. I’m not going to keep reminding you of this pain by pushing against it. I’m not going to demand that you change the restriction by overpowering you. Instead, I’m going to help you experience ways that you can feel better right now with this easy movement.” This is when ‘spontaneous’ releases happen and the client can comfortably receive larger, freer movements. The Change Paradox emerges through helping the client’s brain motor centre experience acceptance of the restricting pattern. Then, when I demonstrate movements that the client can easily
This Paradoxical Law of Change is active in many aspects of our lives. Albert Einstein expressed this as “Once we accept our limits, we go beyond them.” If you have been struggling to try to change some area of your life, consider what you might first need to accept. Think about how you can communicate this acceptance to yourself. Allow space in your life for the change to express itself. Watch for what emerges. I am usually surprised at how profoundly I have to accept before change will begin to happen – but it does.
Chris Bruels, who has specialized in Trager Somatic Body Therapy for over 25 years, helps people live more comfortably. She can be reached at 250-337-2353, info@ chrisbruels.ca and www.chrisbruels.ca.
Gracious Bodytherapy Learn to Live More Comfortably
Chris Bruels Trager Practitioner
1671 Comox Avenue, Comox 250.339.7227 www.chrisbruels.ca
Dr. Lisa J. Lundy B.Sc., Dr. TCM
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Canine Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears by Dr. Heather Matheson, Balanced Paws Veterinary Care Sports fans hear about anterior cruciate ligament or ACL tears on a daily basis. ACL tears are a common injury among top athletes. Unfortunately, this is also a common injury seen in our canine companions. The ligament has a big role in stabilizing the stifle or knee joint and can be surprisingly easy to injure. The typical history we get is “Rover took off after a bunny or jumped out of the truck, we heard a yelp and now he won’t use his back leg.” Not a lot of force is needed to damage the ACL, so typically there is no history of trauma. It is more of a compression and a slight twist and, pop, there it goes. Stepping in a hole while racing after the wascally-wabbit will do it.
If the ACL is only partially torn or stretched acupuncture is helpful. Acupuncture once weekly for four weeks will increase circulation to the joint, stimulate healing, strengthen the ligament, and reduce pain and swelling. We also recommend a herbal formula called Bones and Sinews and Traumeel, a homeopathic, to aid in healing. Of course rest, physiotherapy at home and slowly building the dog up are part of the process. If the ACL is completely torn, acupuncture may make the dog feel better but likely will not stabilize the joint. Surgery may be required. There are several surgical repairs available. The goal always is to have surgery outlast the patient. With any surgical repair after-care and physiotherapy are important and should be started immediately afterwards. Couch-potato-dog for the first month post-surgery then slowly increase exercise with on-leash walks several times a day. No off-leash time for at least three months.
If the ACL is only stretched or partially torn, rest may be all that is required for a full recovery. With this particular injury doing the ‘wait and see’ for a period of time is fine. It is unlikely the dog will further damage the injured leg. However, remember that now the good leg is doing twice as much work and bilateral ACL tears do happen.
Sometimes life just happens regardless of what you do. We all have to live life and have fun but there are some preventive steps you can take to avoid ACL tears:
ACL tears are diagnosed on a physical exam. X-rays are helpful to rule out other problems but an ACL tear is a soft tissue injury so will not show up on X-ray. So we have our canine buddy with a damaged ACL. What is the treatment?
• Keep him fit with regular exercise. Muscles support ligaments and joints.
• Western Medicine • Acupuncture • Chinese Herbs • Homeopathy • Chiropractic Medicine Dr. Heather Matheson “Caring for your furry-family is a privilage! Thank You”
w w w. b a l a n c e d p a w s v e t . c o m
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28 CV Health & Recreation Guide
871-4355
• Do not let your canine buddy get overweight. The more weight the more strain on ligaments and joints.
• If you suspect your dog may be hypothyroid have him tested. There is a correlation between hypothyroidism and ruptured ACL ligaments. • Do not go from couch-potato status to marathon status, work up slowly. • Other then that cross you fingers and have fun. Dr. Heather Matheson is the owner of Balanced
Paws Veterinary Care at 250-871-4355, 2785C
Mansfield Drive (across from the Air Park). Visit info@balancedpawsvet.com or Facebook for more information.
“Aging & Fitness ” continued from page 19...
Getting started
Any activity is always better than no activity Speak with your physician before you begin a new exercise program to ensure you are working within safe parameters. If you are new to exercise begin slowly,
building your stamina and strength gradually. You will see improvements in all of the areas that you train no matter what age you start at. An example of a well-rounded beginner fitness program is: • Cardiovascular exercise: 3 days per week to strengthen heart and lungs and improve general conditioning. Begin with 15 minutes and work up to 60 minutes over a period of months. Swimming, walking and • cycling are great activities. Gradually build up to 4-5 days per week. • Muscular Strength exercise: 2-3 days per week to strengthen muscles, and improve joint and bone health. Pick 4-8 exercises that work major muscles and complete 2 sets of 10-15 repetitions. Aim for perfect • form first, strength.
followed
by
endurance
then
• Flexibility exercise: 5-7 days per week gently lengthening muscles. Stretching and yoga are great ways to improve flexibility. • Balance exercise: Everyday. Start by standing on one foot and work up to one minute. Progress to closing your eyes while you balance.
Progressing
Research has shown that some forms of exercise are more effective than others at slowing functional changes that occur with age. Specifically, more intense activities have been shown to have the most benefit. However, as we age we tend to move towards lower intensity, easier activities and away from high intensity challenges. Higher intensity training results in significant improvements including: • Increased aerobic capacity
• Increased hormone production of testosterone, estrogen and growth hormone. These hormones Continued on page 31... CV Health & Recreation Guide
29
Menopause and.... why am I gaining weight? by Patti Doyle
If you are female between the age of 40 and 60, you have probably experienced (or will shortly) a transitional phase known as menopause. This can be a phase of hormonal shifting that lasts anywhere from a few months (for lucky people) to a few years for others. The liver is responsible for a mere 600 functions in the body and during menopause the increased load on hormonal systems causes a backload in this organ. It has a close connection with the rib cage on the right side of the body. When engorged, it may become adhered (stuck) to the skeletal frame from the inside. This adhesion may cause limits in the normal motion of the ribs and hence the right shoulder girdle as well. If the shoulder bone is not able to move properly the shoulder will impinge with elevation and create pain and inflammation in the joint, eventually resulting in frozen shoulder from no known cause. The liver is closely connected to the large intestine through its vascular (blood supply) system. During menopause the liver is over-taxed with increased hormonal balancing, and circulation to the large intestine becomes slower and less efficient. Sluggish activity of the descending colon causes the body to carry more weight during this process. Techniques to help mobilize the liver away from the ribs and improve its functional efficiency are available and can help someone transition through this
phase quicker and with less excess weight gain and bloating. Visceral manipulation is a manual technique that works with the connective tissue encasement of the organ, and helps improve its mobility and its physiological function. Each organ in the body has a group of emotions that it is responsible for to help dissipate and digest. When the liver is less mobile people often have more difficulty with anger. A person may have less tolerance or patience with those that they care about or may be living with. Menopause is a natural phase of maturation in the life of every female. Treating symptoms with manual therapy can help someone go through this phase quicker with less uncomfortable side effects including physical, physiological to the emotional. If you are experiencing any of these phenomenas or know someone who is, I encourage you to come in for an evaluation and see if visceral manipulation is something for you to regain your previous level of health. I am always amazed at how a person’s overall health picture changes when you release the tensions around the organs inside the body.
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“Aging & Fitness ” continued from page 29...
are necessary for muscle and tissue building and repair (which occurs when we sleep).
It is important to work up to more intense activities as they increase the risk of injury if not performed correctly or with adequate experience. Once you have developed endurance, strength and flexibility, progress to incorporating the following:
• Cardiovascular intervals: 1-2 days per week add interval training to cardio workouts. Warm up for at least 15-20 minutes before attempting high-intensity training. Aging athletes tend to require additional warm up and cool down time to prepare and avoid injury. Complete 4 rounds of 3 minutes of high intensity work followed by 3 minutes of active recovery. Finish with a long cool down to ensure recovery.
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• Strength training: 2-3 days of higher intensity, lower repetition exercises for major muscle groups will stimulate the greatest changes in muscle and bones. Aim for 8-12 repetitions (to muscle fatigue) of 2-4 sets of strength exercises.
The saying, “We are only as old as we feel,” sums it up. We can choose to age quickly on the couch, or more slowly and actively with strength and vitality. Don’t forget: “You aren’t old until age becomes your excuse.” Happy Training! Sarah Seads is a kinesiologist and fitness trainer based in the Comox Valley.
Don McRae, M.L.A. (Comox Valley)
437 Fifth Street Courtenay, B.C. V9N 1J7
Phone: 250-703-2422 Fax: 250-703-2425
Meet with Don McRae at his Courtenay Office! Call or email for an appointment.
don.mcrae.mla@leg.bc.ca • www.donmcraemla.bc.ca
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as SECOND PAGE USED BOOKS CV Health & Recreation Guide
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