Body Mind & Spirit - Fall 2009

Body Mind & Spirit

Fall 2009

A fresh look at health and wellness

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2 BODY, MIND, SPIRIT OCTOBER 2009

Finding Your Path Queenswood is a longstanding jewel in the city’s crown chakra

By JOHN THRELFALL

I

f you think Queenswood is still just a place for nuns, perhaps it’s time you took a fresh look at this holistic jewel in our collective crown chakra.

Quietly tucked away on 14 acres of Cadboro Bay forest, Queenswood may have originally been founded as a home for the Sisters of St. Ann who were studying at the University of Victoria, but it now operates as a multifaith spiritual retreat centre. From zen monks and reiki masters to academics on sabbatical and artists walking the labyrinth, Queenswood is quickly becoming the local destination of choice for just about anybody interested in maintaining their spiritual health. As executive director Kate Fagan Taylor puts it, “We exist solely to support people’s well-being”—and whether that means a therapeutic pool open to the public or yoga sessions in what was originally the chapel, Queenswood inherently has your best interests at heart.

Originally the site of an extravagant mansion (called, unsurprisingly, Queenswood House) built in 1928 but destroyed by fire in 1958, Queenswood as we know it now was designed back in the mid-’60s

by Victoria’s noted modernist architect John Di Castri (creator of Centennial Square, Fort Street’s Mosaic building and UVic’s Interfaith Chapel, to name a few); but the human-shaped main building was recently renovated to reflect their current direction.

“The whole renovation process was symbolic of the broadening of Queenswood’s appeal to people from many different traditions and practices,” notes programs and marketing coordinator Stefan Jonsson.

Then again, Queenswood’s new mandate really isn’t too different from their old mission. “The Sisters were really core to the fundamental needs of Victoria right from the very beginning,” says Jonsson, citing their founding of the region’s first school in 1858 and first hospital in 1876. “They always evaluated the needs of the community and then met those needs . . . and that was our motivator for expanding into different types of programs, so we can reach out and support more people. People today are much more interested in interfaith practices, in spirituality, in health and wellness in general.” And the programming at today’s Queenswood reflects that; a quick flip through their impressive catalogue reveals courses ranging from Qigong to Wellness for Social Service Providers, as well as surprisingly affordable retreat packages with unusual features like silent sleeping quarters and 24-hour access to the library and art studio.

When asked if the recent shift in spiritual direction had been met with any criticism, Jonsson pauses for a moment. “When we began to take this new broader direction, we decided the main service we would offer would be retreats, so some of the programs we offered before in different format have had to find their niche within the new vision of Queenswood—but they’ve all found a place within it now.” Indeed, both Jonsson and Fagan Taylor point to a pair of public consultations held about 18 months ago, in which over 500 people participated, as a key element in Queenswood’s restructuring. “Part of the reason there’s been so much support is that we asked the community to help us develop this plan,” says Jonsson. “The direction and plan were based on what they provided as input.”

And it seems to be paying off, as Fagan Taylor says there’s been

There’s no nicer place for a retreat in Victoria than the John Di Castri-designed Queenswood

a jump in interest about Queenswood locally, nationally and internationally.

“We’ve seen a big increase, both in how many people come and how many programs we put on . . . once people hear about us, I don’t think I’ve ever told anybody about Queenswood who didn’t get captivated by the idea of it.”

Indeed, it’s a hard idea not to like.

Whether you’re checking in for an extended stay—current guests on academic retreat include the world’s foremost authority on cave art and an expert in oceanography—or are one of the many in helping professions (nursing, teaching, counseling) pursuing professional development, or are just a dropin guest at one of the monthly Passionate Lives or Evenings with an Artist sessions, Fagan Taylor says there’s always a fascinating mix of people strolling the grounds. “It’s amazing the conversations you can have around the dinner tables here,” she says. “It’s a place where people can step out of their everyday lives for a day or a weekend, and then go back with a completely different view— and much more spiritual freedom for meeting the challenges of their lives.”

Not that running a centre like this isn’t without challenges of its own. A longtime non-profit and charity, Queenswood recently ran into the same recessionary wall many of us are dealing with. “We had our strongest months ever in June and July this year, but since then it’s been tough,” Fagan Taylor admits. “The Sisters of St. Ann have realized they’re not going to be able to support Queenswood financially beyond 2010; now we need to replace their support with community ownership and support, so we’re inviting people who believe in us to become part of us and support us. And we know in our hearts that it’s possible to make this work.”

Queenswood’s bursary program is one way to ensure that no one who wants to participate is excluded by cost alone. “We never want finances to be a barrier for people,” says Fagan Taylor, noting that they’re actually in the process of expanding their bursary program. “We’re fortunate in that there’s a community of support here . . . we actually get 35 percent of our income from donations.”

“What we do at Queenswood isn’t a luxury, or recreation at all,” adds Jonsson. “It’s crucial for taking care of ourselves and finding ways to survive rough times, like this recession, and find ways to keep us being fully functional, healthy human beings.”

But if you still find those old stone gates on Arbutus Road a

bit daunting, Fagan Taylor says you’re not alone.

“Often the first visit is hardest for people,” she chuckles. “They’re feeling a little shy, not exactly sure how to take that first step. That’s part of why we started drop-in classes—like yoga, meditation and art studio—as a nice way for people to just try it out.” They also currently have a Bring-a-Friend initiative, where both you and your friend get 10 percent off. “That way, you don’t have to come by yourself—and it’s part of developing your own support network in your life. Nobody should have to be by themselves or support themselves if they’re going through a hard time.”

Jonsson sums it up best when he reflects on most people’s busy schedules. “Some people may only have an hour a week to focus on health and wellness, but they’re still able to take advantage of the setting of Queenswood; it feels like you’re a world away, but you’re still in the city.”

Still in the city—now there’s a perfect description of Queenswood. M See queenswoodvictoria.ca to learn more about Queenswood’s retreats, sabbaticals, drop-in classes, facilities, bursaries and more

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FALL 2009

BODY, MIND, SPIRIT OCTOBER 2009 3

Action Stations!

Starhawk believes our future hinges on taking action for the things we love and cherish

By JOHN THRELFALL

O

ne thing you can say about bestselling author and influential pagan priestess Starhawk—she’s never been afraid to put her words into action. An early voice in the call for global justice, the internationally involved activist has now written her first illustrated children’s book, The Last Wild Witch: An Eco-Fable for Kids and Other Free Spirits (Mother Tongue Ink, 32 pages, $20), a charming tale combining whimsical illustrations by frequent WeMoon day planner artist Lindy Kehoe with a timely message of civil disobedience and ecological preservation.

“The publishers ran into some readers who said, ‘This teaches disobedience!’,” Starhawk chuckles. “But it’s more a book that teaches about taking action to save something you love, and about non-violence.”

Both are topics Starhawk knows well, but after more than three decades of action in numerous countries around the world, does she feel encouraged or discouraged by 21st century activism to date? “I’m tremendously encouraged,” she says, singling out 1999’s pivotal anti-WTO action in Seattle. “There

had been many, many kinds of activism all through the ’80s and ’90s—including environmental and forest activism in Canada— but it had been a long time since there had been urban street demonstrations in the U.S. like that,” recalls the Clayoquot arrestee. “But after Seattle, there was a whole new wave of activists and activism that carried on very intensely for many years.”

Such is the beauty of activism, she feels.

“That’s one of the things powerful directaction of the kind we saw in Seattle can do: it’s like a spotlight you can shine on things that have been going on quietly behind the scenes that people weren’t aware of. I’ve often found, in organizing around global justice issues, that people didn’t know anything about [a specific issue] but when they found out about it, they were outraged: that these institutions, that nameless and faceless bureaucrats who aren’t accountable to anybody, can actually override the laws that we make as citizens. How can that be?”

But what’s the connection between that and a children’s book? “There’s a cohort of Seattle

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activists, many of whom are now in their you’re only negative—if you don’t know what 30s, who are having kids and establishing you want, as well as what you don’t want— careers; they’ve shifted from street activism then sooner or later you lose energy and burn into more community-building activism,” out. When you have a clear vision of what she says. “We can’t necessarily depend upon you want to create, what you want to do, it’s our federal government or global institutions a lot easier to sustain yourself and your activto actually deal with our problems, but we ism over time.”

Starhawk also hopes the message in The can tackle them in our own communities— and find ways to build community resilience, Last Wild Witch will be a way of addressing re-localize our food systems and rebuild our the disturbingly current idea of nature-deficit enterprises at the same time.”

Similarly, Starhawk feels the time is right in the greater pagan community for an illustrated children’s book. “It’s part of the maturing, and growth, of the pagan population,” she agrees. “I didn’t have kids of my own, but my step-daughters are all grown and starting to have kids of their own—and some of their kids are almost old enough to have kids. But when they were young, there were very few children in the community.”

Now, she points out how her own San Francisco community, Reclaiming, regularly put on family events—as do many contemporary pagan communities—and cherishes their multi-generational makeup. “We’ve got much more of a community of children and teenagers and adults now, and that’s a wonderful and hopeful thing. I was starting to wonder if we were going to be like the elephant in a Author, activist and priestess Starhawk boa constrictor kind-of thing, but it feels (and we’re sure that any similarity to these days like there really is generations the main character in The Last Wild coming up after us.”

Witch is strictly coincidental) As a spiritual figurehead, Starhawk has explored the fusion of faith and activism disorder. “Too many chilrepeatedly in her writings—overtly in the dren just don’t have access likes of Webs of Power and Dreaming the to nature and spend their Dark, in fictional works like The Fifth lives just watching TV Sacred Thing and Walking to Mercury, or playing video games; and in the more spiritual realm of The hopefully this might Earth Path and Truth or Dare—but even encourage them to want though her collaborative work Circle to get out at least a little Round offered tips on raising children in bit,” she says. “In many goddess traditions, The Last Wild Witch urban situations, parents is the first time she’s directed her message specifically towards children. And while the have decided it’s too dangerous and those story—which features a clash between an old video games are very addictive and seductive. forest-dwelling witch whose soup encourages Kids get sucked into that and then it’s hard to local kids to act up and the powers-that-be pry them loose and get them outdoors.”

Ultimately, is getting everyday people to who prefer the town’s children to be quiet and well-behaved—may introduce ideas of take action all part of her (not-so) secret direct non-violent action in the face of immi- agenda? “That’s key for my hopes for the nent danger (in this case, chopping or burn- future,” Starhawk insists. “It’s not something ing down the forest) to a younger audience, the government’s going to do for us, it’s not the themes will be familiar to anyone who something the UN is going to do for us, has read her work—or taken action them- it’s something we need to do for ourselves and our communities. As we get active, as selves to protect something they love.

“There’s always two sides in activism: the we get hopeful, as we really get involved in side that stands up and screams and says ‘No, the basic conditions of our lives and our don’t do that’ and the side that asks, ‘What children’s lives—which is what’s up for grabs are the positive alternatives, and how do we right now—then we can develop the political build them and create them?’,” she explains. power we need to actually get those bigger “Both are important; you can’t ignore the systems to do the things they need to do.” M need to stand up and yell and scream occasionally. Some people in spiritual circles say, Visit starhawk.org to find out more about ‘Oh, but that’s so negative’—but sometimes Starhawk or to keep up to date with her actions you need to be negative.” She pauses and and writings. laughs. “There’s power in it, right? But if

Managing Menopause Is bio-identical hormone replacement therapy a path for you?

By STEPHANIE DAWSON

A

ccording to that old axiom, thinking you need help is the first step in seeking help. But is there any truth to that?

The thought of menopause can conjure up scary images: hot flashes, mood swings, fluid retention, dry skin, lack of libido, headaches.

This is what women have to look forward to? Not only that, but sifting through the numerous choices to help women through the hormonal shift into menopause can be daunting.

Some women have turned to hormone replacement therapy hoping to help make these hormonal changes more comfortable.

One such therapy, Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), is gaining popularity as it supplies the deficient hormones in a form as close as possible to the original hormones found in our bodies.

Ted Carino, a compounding pharmacist with Bob Mehr Compounding Pharmacies, explains that BHRT and the basics of compounding help to alleviate the above mentioned symptoms caused by the natural decrease in hormone production while at the same time giving the protective benefits originally provided by naturally occurring hormones.

“BHRT is different than convention hormone therapy in that the sources of the hormones used in BHRT come from plants—soy and yams—but they undergo chemical conversions in a lab to make the hormones from the plant the same structure to what our body makes,” Carino explains.

“Conventional hormone therapy generally does not have the same chemical structure of what humans produce; one of the conventional, commercial hormones comes from

the urine of a pregnant horse. Many women have been treated successfully using conventional therapy but some have experienced side effects or are not comfortable using nonbio-identical hormones.”

As for the safety factor of using BHRT versus conventional hormone replacement therapy, Carino explains that although there is a lack of large scale controlled studies, there are many smaller studies which demonstrate their safety and efficacy. One study in particular, Dr. Kent Holtorf’s “The Bioidentical Hormone Debate: Are Bioidentical Hormones (Estradiol, Estriol, and Progesterone) Safer or More Efficacious than Commonly Used Synthetic Versions in Hormone Replacement Therapy?”

(Postgraduate Medicine, January 2009), concluded that the date and clinical outcomes “demonstrate that Bio-Identical hormones are associated with lower risks, including the risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease.”

A doctor is the best person to discuss the risks and benefits of all types of hormone therapy (and write a prescription, if you choose). If you aren’t keen on taking mass produced drugs, somebody who specializes in BHRT—a naturopath, say, or a compounding pharmacist—can offer more information.

As a compounding pharmacist, Carino mixes prescribed medications allowing for minute dosage adjustments that take into account the individual’s weight, body shape and lifestyle to achieve efficacy and compliance with hormone therapy.

Compounding, which has ancient roots, is not just for hormone therapy—say you need medicine at strengths that are not manufactured by drug companies, or you need a different method of taking the medication; compounding might be a good choice. For example, it can make bitter medications taste better using different combinations of flavours and sweeteners; and if swallowing large tablets makes you gag, compounding can help by making a liquid or a cream of the same medication.

For those not comfortable with the idea of hormone therapy in general, other available therapies such as herbals, homeopathies, and other supplements can help. “These products are not hormones themselves but they provide hormone-like relief. There are many high quality products available that can help mild to moderate symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, irritability and sleep disturbances,” Carino says.

A lot to take in but the more information you have on the topic, the better. It makes it less scary—especially when you learn you have choices—as you move into the menopausal years. M Editor’s note: Our sympathies go out to the family, friends and co-workers of pharmacist Ted Carino, who died in a car accident after this story had already gone to press. We regret any grief his appearance in this story may cause.

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GREENE livin rgreene@mondaymag.com

Get a Clean Conscience Staying clean doesn’t mean hurting the environment

W

hen it comes to cleaning products, most of us have a tendency to choose the hard and abrasive over the eco-friendly, believing in a false sense of greater efficiency and effectiveness; basically, we want to get the job done fast with as little elbow grease as possible. All too often, our environmental conscience temporarily wanes as we spray and wipe with gloved hands and the exhaust fan works overtime in an attempt to cover up the toxic stench of bleach and various other chemically concocted liquids and soaps.

I recently packed up my rental apartment to move into my first house, and a friend supplied me with a bunch of all-natural cleaning products to start things fresh in my new home. Of course, my mother’s voice was in the back of my mind reminding me to “waste not, want not” as I gathered up all the old bottles and cans of generic kitchen and bathroom cleaners from under my sink for disposal. Even though I didn’t use most of them, I knew that eliminating these items from my home and life was long overdue—and necessary—so my guilt at creating waste was somewhat alleviated.

Armed with my array of new Dusting Diva products, I set about testing each one and was very pleasantly surprised by what I discovered. I had previously only known Dusting Divas as a cleaning service and had no idea they also made their own cleaning products, let alone that they were doing it right here in Victoria and as part of a company with a much larger vision.

The parent company, Clean Conscience, provides residen-

The Iyengar Method of Yoga

physiology, kinesiology, philosophy, and practical teaching methods.

Candidates for certification undergo an assessment process that includes recommendations by KS Iyengar is a living yoga master who has been teaching yoga around the world for 75 years. mentoring teachers, a review of study and teaching experience, and a comprehensive three-part An author of 20 books which have been transexamination. lated into various languages, his contribution to The Iyengar yoga style of teaching is marked by yoga has been acknowledged in the Oxford Engprecision of the alignment of bones, muscles and lish Dictionary which defines “Iyengar” as a joints in performing the yoga poses, or asanas. It form of yoga. is unique in the innovative use of props, which BKS Iyengar was named by Time magazine as has made the words of the 11th century yogic one of the 100 most influential persons of the text, Hatha Yoga Pradipika, come alive: “...the 20th century. Today there are certified Iyengar young, the old, diseased, the weak and the disyoga teachers in 40 countries. abled can all do yoga and attain benefits.”

Iyengar yoga is a complete approach to physical, Props include blankets, belts, ropes, chairs, bolmental, emotional, and spiritual health, bringing sters and wooden blocks which allow even the vitality, mental clarity, wisdom, and emotional stiffest and most disabled students to do the poses serenity. and gain benefits. Iyengar Yoga is internationally The Iyengar teaching process is rigorous and stu- renowned for its therapeutic value in alleviating dents can be assured that instructors are well symptoms of many diseases. trained in the practice and philosophy of yoga.

For more information about IYCV, at 202-919 Fort St. In Canada, a minimum of 3 years training is re(above the Blue Fox Café), phone 250-386-9642 or visit quired for an introductory teacher. Additional www.iyengaryogacentre.ca. teacher training includes the study of anatomy,

B

Shirley Daventry French, founding member of the Iyengar Yoga Centre of Victoria teaches Salabhasana, the locust pose.

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202-919 Fort Street (Above the Blue Fox Café) www.iyengaryogacentre.ca 6 BODY, MIND, SPIRIT OCTOBER 2009

tial, commercial and construction cleaning services and locally manufactures and nationally wholesales and retails Dusting Diva cleaning products. They are committed to delivering superb cleaning services using natural aromatherapy cleaning products that are non-toxic and leave your home not only sparkling and clean, but with the lingering scent of cinnamon, citrus or lavender. (Their commitment to creating a new culture around cleaning to further an awareness of the interrelationship between our health and our environment has also led them to be the exclusive product supplier to the Dockside Green development, providing each new condo with a gift basket of Dusting Divas products.)

With wholesale distribution for Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands all handled by another local company—PSC Natural Foods—Clean Conscience has now begun expanding into the lower mainland. After moving their product division to Squamish and participating in Squamish and Whistler farmer’s markets over the summer, they have now created enough brand awareness to have been approached to submit a proposal to be the cleaning product supplier to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

All of this has come about due to the vision of company president Amanda Schofield, a local girl truly going for gold.

Even with the possibility of Olympic participation in the works, Clean Conscience is still committed to servicing local residential clients and always looking for new construction projects in which they can get their hands dirty assisting with

Safe and healthy household cleansers help make Rachel a happy cleaner

the clean-up.

Schofield certainly doesn’t do it all alone, however, and credits her ever-increasing team with having the right attitude and training to help their clients and customers create living spaces that are eco friendly, healthy and uplifting.

I for one can attest to that—the products I have had the pleasure of using so far have actually made domestic cleaning less of a chore and more of a sensory experience. My new home smells delicious and any surface is clean enough to eat off. I’m excited to participate in the growth of such a responsible local company striving to do better, not just environmentally but also within our local community.

For more information on Dusting Diva products and Clean Conscience—including a list of local retailers— check out cleanconscience.ca. Do your life a favor and get a clean conscience!

—Rachel Greene

In Practical Iridology, you’ll learn: • The correct terms to describe all the anatomical structures of the iris

Iridology is is one of the most valuable health assessment tools that I have, and I know that you will find it valuable too.

• How to use iridology charts correctly

Yvonne Dollard Perc Teacher, Trainer, Facilitator

Natural Health Practitioner Master Herbalist, Iridologist, Sclerologist, Nutritionalist, Kinesiologist, AcuTherapist

A Certified Course On Practical Iridology.

There is More Than Meets the Eye The eyes contain a wealth of information about a person’s physical and emotional nature. From just looking in the eyes you can determine: ✔ What health problems they are genetically prone to ✔ Where the strengths and weaknesses are in their body ✔ The condition of their spinal column and central nervous system ✔ The primary way they learn and express themselves ✔ And much much more…

Practical Iridology is a course created and geared towards use by the herbalist and natural health practitioner. This course teachs you how to use the iris to ask just the right questions, enables you to produce the maximum benefits for your clients.

• The most up-to-date terms for the various markings, signs and patterns that appear in the iris, and what they mean • The various constitutional types from German iridology • Basic therapies to use with different iris patterns • The basis elements of Rayid iridology, a system of assessing personality issues using the iris And, most importantly, you’ll be taught a “road map” showing you how to study the iris beginning wth the general and ending with the specific. You’ll find that you don’t need to pay close attention to every detail of the iris. Instead, you’ll learn to group iris signs and markings into body systems and rapidly identify what the weakest systems in the body are likely to be. When you focus your efforts on these primary weaknesses you are able to obtain faster and more dependable results.

Learn how to read eyes and gain valuable insight that will enable you to assist people towards greater health, by registering for the Practical Iridology course offered by Yvonne Dollard Perc of Island Healthworks.

Other Courses also offered are: • • • • • •

Emotional Iridology Viscular Manipulation The Body Systems Body Types Diet and Nutrition Herbs and The Body Systems Please phone 250-468-7685 or Email: islandhealthworks@shaw.ca for more details.

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No Regrets

way not to have regrets. Let there be no “if only’s” or “I wish I had’s” in your life.

And other prescriptions for your soul

Prescription #35: A Best Friend - Who is the most important person in your life?

Reflect on that question for a moment. The answer is you. No one can replace you. You need to be for yourself what we all need: a best friend, someone who can put up with your craziness and inadequacies but still accept you and be there for you.

Stop tearing yourself to pieces when others don’t like something you’ve done. Even if what you did was wrong, dangerous, or stupid, it is the act, not you, that is the problem. So do not let others destroy the relationship you have with the most important person in your life—you! Accept your uniqueness and free others to be themselves too.

By DR. BERNIE SIEGEL

B

estselling author Dr. Bernie Siegel is a well-known proponent of alternative approaches to healing not just for the body, but the mind and soul as well. In 365 Prescriptions for the Soul: Daily Words for Healing Body, Mind, and Spirit, he prescribes daily doses of inspiration, hope and love designed to help us navigate whatever challenges life throws our way. Here’s a brief sampling of the guidance and wisdom he lovingly offers.

Prescription #23: Have No Regrets - You don’t want to live in such a way that when your life is over, you are left thinking more about what you didn’t do than what you did do. Think about how you would feel on your deathbed if you were wishing you had done that one special thing or taken that chance that you let pass by.

From that perspective, examine your life today. Think about some risks you have been unwilling to take—perhaps changing careers, following a dream, opening your heart to another person, or being all you can be. You can do nothing to change the decisions you made in your past, but the future holds many opportunities.

I remember a college football player diagnosed with cancer who said to me, “Before I got cancer there were games where I could have given more of myself.” He regretted that he had held back. From his battle with cancer, he learned to not leave anything in the locker room but to bring it all with him out on the field. We all need to “bring it all out on the field” of our lives. It is the only

Excerpted with permission from 365 Prescriptions for the Soul (New World Library)

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Prescription #115: Fail Successfully - You can see failure as a reason to stop what you are doing, or you can ask yourself why you failed and then learn from your mistakes.

Mistakes can be a valuable part of life’s curriculum. You would do well to fail frequently so you can learn a great deal more than someone who is afraid to fail and therefore takes little risk. If you have passion for what you are doing and aim high, good things will happen even if it takes a lot of failing to accomplish them.

Accidents, failures, and mistakes can often lead us to our greatest successes and open us to our true interests. For instance, say you have a project you want to complete but you need more knowledge of the subject. So you take an evening course at a local college.

You walk into the wrong class and become so interested in the subject that it changes your life. M

Mia Blackwell 250-896-2547 www.victoriathaiyogamassage.com mia_thaiyoga@yahoo.ca

Living Raw, with Bliss Heather Cunliffe of Café Bliss gives us the skinny on raw food

By RACHEL GREENE

I

f there’s one thing that reality TV has done right, it’s the successful elevation of food and food culture to celebrity status. As a result, many of us have begun to take an increased pleasure in all aspects of food and the way we eat.

Through better nutrition, we’re encouraged to lead healthier lifestyles and therefore greener lives; and with the spotlight shining on a variety of food lifestyles and practices— including live food cuisine—Victoria can now claim to be a premiere raw food establishment. In an edgy part of town (the best location the owners could have hoped for), Café Bliss feels right at home with Mo:le and Habit as two great neighbours that share real food connections. “Bliss” is an expression of the chef-owner’s passion for a menu prepared with local, organic foods that can be enjoyed by people of every dietary persuasion. Through the creation of tantalizing meals that leave people feeling nourished and energized, this Bliss bomb demonstrates that conscious, hip and healthy organic live food culture and cuisine is here to stay and is anything but boring. As Heather Cunliffe tells us, raw food is sexy and smart.

Monday Magazine: When you’re playing in your kitchen, who are you?

Heather Cunliffe: I’m the owner and head chef of Café Bliss.

MM: What’s on the Bliss menu?

HC: Organic, fresh, made-to-order juices, smoothies, dairy-free mylkshakes, local seasonal salads, raw chocolates, raw wheat-free pizza, soup, cracker plates and decadent desserts.

MM: How did you get interested in the raw food lifestyle and diet?

HC: My sister made a fresh blueberry sorbet shortly after she went raw and it was one of the best things I had ever tasted; it immediately piqued my interest in raw food. The following winter I spent three months in raw-food immersion at the Tree of Life Rejuvenation Centre in Arizona. By the time I left, I was glowing inside and out.

MM: Were you a picky eater as a child?

HC: The only thing I didn’t like was red meat.

MM: Which memory of a food epiphany do you cherish the most?

HC: Picking fat juicy blackberries with my mom on Salt Spring Island, where I grew up.

MM: How important is education when considering a raw food diet?

HC: Self-education is of key importance; we need to deepen our understanding of the role of food in our lives— mentally, emotionally, culturally, physically, politically, economically and ecologically. A general understanding of food

Heather Cunliffe greets visitors to downtown’s Café Bliss

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from these perspectives helps us to maintain a raw food diet as a practice in our lives and to encourage us to pursue further education by way of classes, books and magazines, a variety of sources on the internet and in cafes such as Bliss. It requires an evolution in your choices about food and your understanding of its place and meaning in your life. Health challenges should dictate the level at which you can educate yourself or seek professional assistance.

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MM: Do you think there are global benefits to converting to a raw-food diet?

HC: There are global benefits to shifting away from too many processed foods and animal products and leaning towards organic, local, plant-based foods that honour local traditions; it goes beyond the health of individuals to encouraging care for the entire biosphere. David Rainoshek has said that we can eat as an act of love for all beings when we shift to plant-based nutrition.

MM: What are some of the health benefits of following a raw food diet?

HC: Eating a plant-based diet of raw and living foods is the ultimate diet for healing: think nutrient density combined with hydration and an overall feeling of getting your

In the words of a happy patient, Dr. Geddo has “not just helped my teeth, she has helped me smile.

She has been such an inspiration. She truly cares about your health and you as a person. She has made such a difference to my whole life.”

MM: Your favorite Café Bliss juice or smoothie?

HC: I drink my favorite juice at Bliss every day— Green Buzz, which contains grapefruit, celery, ginger and wheatgrass—but I also love a strawberry mylkshake made with our own fresh almond mylk, cashew vanilla ice cream and fresh strawberries. The best thing to eat is always what’s in season and local—and thanks to the Village Family Marketplace and all the Island farmers, there’s lots of organic local food served at Bliss.

MM: What do you do when you’re not prepping at the Café?

HC: When I’m not at Bliss or working on the recipe book, I’m usually sleeping, with intermittent periods of ocean swimming, yoga, bluegrass picking, celebrating nature and playing with my baby niece.

MM: Given the choice, who would you employ as your personal chef?

I sleep in bliss no matter how I lie… on my side, my back…or on my stomach I never toss or turn.

Its eight hours of pure bliss every night. I love it!

Thank you!

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Experience loving kindness and beauty when you visit Dr. Deanna Geddo’s tranquil and serene office.

Her deep knowledge of dentistry and relaxation / meditation techniques, her appreciation of patients as whole persons, and her kind-hearted, gentle approach ensure your visit will be pleasurable and joyful.

Dr. Geddo offers a full range of dental services including amalgam removal, metal-free crowns, bridges, dentures and aesthetic work. Smile-enhancement is one of her areas of expertise. She will give you a dazzling, whiter smile with cleaning cleaning, whitening or hand-crafted veneers.

natural mojo back. Turning toward a diet of fresh, local, organic and predominantly plant-based foods is a more and more common choice with the general public and health professionals as a means for personal and global health.

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MM: Any books or websites that you would recommend for interested individuals?

HC: Juicefeasting.com has an excellent 92-day plantbased nutrition program by David Rainoshek, who has an MA in vegan/live food nutrition. The top books to read are Green for Life and 12 Steps to Raw by Victoria Boutenko, Conscious Eating and Rainbow Green Live Food Cuisine by Dr. Gabriel Cousens and The Sunfood Diet Success System and Eating for Beauty by David Wolfe. For raw food preparation, Grateful by Cafe Gratitude, Raw Food Real World and Eleina Love Joy’s books are all excellent.

MM: Do you run any workshops?

HC: These days I’m spending every spare minute working on my recipe book, which I’m hoping will be out

by Christmas. I plan to do some more food preparation classes in the New Year. If anyone is interested, they can join the Café Bliss Facebook group, look on our website or just come by and inquire.

The classes will be held at Bliss and include lots of testing and tasting!

MM: What are the musthave items in your pantry?

HC: Raw cacao beans, lucuma, goji berries, fresh vanilla beans, local honey, bee pollen, ginseng, maca, vitamineral green and everything to make raw chocolate.

Soothing Comfort

Come find out how your visit to the dentist can be a pleasurable and healing experience.

HC: Cosmo Meens.

MM: Best bet if you’re feeling adventurous?

HC: Sombrio Salad of local greens, tenderized kale, B.C. kelp, marinated Salt Spring shitake mushrooms, Bliss pickled ginger, cucumber, local radishes, and cashews, topped with our orange-miso-kelp dressing and a multiseed cracker with a Mayan Morning spicy hot chocolate drink to drink.

Now that will make you want to dance! M Find Cafe Bliss at 556 Pandora, see them online at cafebliss.ca or call 590-5733.

Working It Out Medicine Moves and Taboo Fitness offer two very different ways of getting out of your head and into your body

By STEPHANIE DAWSON

T

rying out a new movement class can not only be fun and healthy but, unlike traditional movement, can also kick-start your physical, mental and spiritual wellness and take you to a whole new level.

One form of movement that frees up and integrates the body, mind and soul yet still remains playful is Medicine Moves, practiced by 5Rhythms movement psychotherapist Jim Kragtwyk. Different than the traditional straight-talk couch approach offered by many counsellors and therapists, Medicine Moves integrate psychotherapy and counselling with expressive movement; individual or couple sessions, for instance, often move from the couch to the studio floor.

“We want to shift from the thinking to the sensing and feeling,” Kragtwyk explains. “Our personal truths live in the latter, rather than the former, which means that sometimes behind issue X—our thinking brain—there is a deeper underlying truth. We want to integrate the body/mind/spirit and look at limiting beliefs; focussed movement could speed the healing process and expand people’s potential and possibilities.”

The movements in Medicine Moves can range from easing body tension through small shifts of the body position while sitting to breath work, body/sensory awareness and imagery, postures on the floor or other forms of greater movement that may even include music—as in the workshops where Kragtwyk partners with a 5Rhythms dance teacher. (After all, the primary teaching of 5Rhythms is, “If you put your psyche in motion, it will heal itself.”)

“The movement, developed by Gabrielle Roth, is a form of ecstatic dance that helps to free our bodies, open our hearts and empty our minds,” says Kragtwyk. “And for couples especially, bringing it to the non-verbal in movement form where they can show—rather than talk about—how they feel allows them to connect better.”

After spending an hour with Kragtwyk and taking advantage of his 20 years of counselling skills, I can honestly say I discovered something new: that movement (which helps to stay in the moment) can sidestep the denial of my mind, which in turn created a greater sense of wholeness, playfulness and, most importantly, made me feel a little less anxious.

For something completely different, Taboo Dance and Fitness owner Danielle Murray offers movement that is fun, sexy and empowering in the form of Pole Dancing 101, Cardio

Shake it like you mean it at a Taboo session, or try some Medicine Moves with Jim Kragtwyk

Strippersize (which are routines without the actual removal of clothes) and Cardio Quick & Dirty (combining a 60-minute cardio workout with sexy moves); but sorry guys, this is for women only.

“It’s about increasing endurance, flexibility and core strength while at the same time building body awareness, increasing confidence and embracing sexuality,” says Murray. “As for the appeal, people are drawn to something new, something outside of the status quo—something Taboo.”

The idea of Taboo was born while Murray was in Miami, walked by Crunch Gym and saw an advertisement for a Striptease Cardio Class; immediately intrigued, she returned home hoping to find something similar, but when none could be found, Murray decided to use her extensive dance background (including tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop and modern) to create her own classes.

In addition to helping women achieve their individual fitness goals and increase their self-confidence through her classes, Murray says she has also reached out and taken a more involved role in the community by working with local charities, supporting the arts and women’s issues.

The Striptease Cardio Class I attended had a laid back feel and was filled with women of all ages, shapes and fitness levels—which eased my somewhat self-conscious self. Even

when the group messed up a move or two, we all laughed it off. And the bonus? After class, I noticed a slightly sexier swagger on all the gals.

Any body routine—be it movement therapy or sexy moves—that gets you out of your head and those particularly troublesome thoughts can only be a positive influence on your body, mind and spirit. After all, not only is it therapeutic but it can also be an awful lot of fun. M For more on Medicine Moves, contact Jim Kragtwyk at 8966683 or medicinemoves.ca. To learn more about Taboo, contact Danielle Murray at 686-6877 or taboodanceandfitness.com/ main.php

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bikram is made for rehabilitation of injuries and helping people with chronic pain,â&#x20AC;? she explains. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I used to be a triathlete in my 20s and had chronic hip and lower-back pain, but, after six months of hot yoga, the pain was gone. Other styles If you can stand the heat, hot yoga donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t give me the same relief.â&#x20AC;? might be for you Meanwhile Moksha Yoga Victoria is a Canadian-born company, created in 2004 as an offshoot of Bikram. (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mokshaâ&#x20AC;?

By STEPHANIE DAWSON means freedom and liberation.) Their series of 40 postures and two breathing exercises are done in a 37-degree heated room using moist radiant heat for an hour, 75 or 90 minutes.

Heather MacLeod, one of the studio directors for Moksha f you already practice yoga but have yet to try hot yoga, be and an avid snowboarder, says that their style of hot yoga prepared to heat up your body and sweat during an intense appeals to a variety of people. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Extreme athletes love the chalworkout like youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never felt before. After all, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s called â&#x20AC;&#x153;hot lenge of the heat, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a tremendous therapeutic yogaâ&#x20AC;? for a reason, and the reason is just thatâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yoga practiced affect for the body which makes it accessible to everyone,â&#x20AC;? she in a super-heated environment. explains. People with chronic pain, injuries and compromised Two kinds of hot yoga currently exist in Victoria: Bikram joints benefit, as well as those wishing to lose weight, detoxify and Moksha. Both use a series of postures practiced in a heated Bikramâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Divi Chandna in action and improve liver function, while at the same time increasing room which work to stretch, strengthen and tone the muscles their metabolism and circulation. while detoxifying the body (and, oddly, both can be found on â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the foundersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Jessica Robertsonâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;had scoliosis Fort Street). and suffered with arthritis since age nine,â&#x20AC;? says MacLeod. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She tried Bikram has 26 postures and two breathing exercises, explains Divi Chandna, so many styles of therapy for her pain and mobility, but it wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t co-owner of Shanti Yoga Victoria (which offers Bikram Hot Yoga), and was working for her so she created Moksha.â&#x20AC;? developed by Bikram Choudhury who brought the idea from India to the Their brand-new space also boasts environmentally friendly radiwest in the 1960s. The Indianant heating panels and cork floors. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The unique thing about us trained Choudhury observed is that our entire model is built around sustainability,â&#x20AC;? says Lena Conscious Centred that people who did yoga in Simmons, Mokshaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s other studio director. (Perks include being able the naturally high temperatures Community to volunteer time in exchange for unlimited yoga, as well as onceof India could create a greater â&#x20AC;&#x153;Living in the a-week â&#x20AC;&#x153;karma classesâ&#x20AC;? which only ask a minimum $5 donation for stretch with fewer injuries. charity.)

Chandna, a yoga teacher for Heartâ&#x20AC;?

Both styles say that those new to hot yoga should follow some nine years, has seen a range simple, good-sense advice: avoid eating a heavy meal two hours of people in her practice here, A supportive local network and on-line before class, bring a towel as well as shorts, a mat . . . and plenty many of whom switch traditions information centre - including events, of water. because, as she puts it, â&#x20AC;&#x153;they want organizations, services, ceremonies, and For me, hot yoga was one of the hardest things I have ever tried to try something different, others celebrations. CCC is dedicated to and felt more like a marathonâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;although it does suit beginners want to cross-train; we get athnurturing connections between likewho can choose to modify the positions. But once I got over the letes, beginners and people who hearted people, while fostering a spirit want a faster detoxification.â&#x20AC;?

Mokshaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heather MacLeod initial shock of the heat and the sight of my sweat dripping onto my of co-creativity in the community. towel-protected mat, I began to relax; and, after taking a few gulps The heat is high at a Bikram of water, I noticed I was beginning to adapt to the temperature. studio; anywhere from 39 to 42 Once class is over, you can look forward to feeling a few pounds degrees Celsiusâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;with a humidLetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s build tomorrow today! ity of 40 percentâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and use forced-air heat lighter . . . as well as famished, and a lot more toned. M plus humidifiers (when necessary) during Join us for our 2nd Annual Celebration a 90-minute class. If you are worriedâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;as I Try it for yourself at Moksha Yoga Victoria, 1088 Fort (mokshayogavictoria.com, 508-4698) on November 21st! For more info, visit: wasâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;about the passing-out factor, Chandna com or 480-7742) www.consciouscentredcommunity.com recommends bringing a huge bottle of water.

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Look to the Stars Is an astrology session in your future?

By STEPHANIE DAWSON

W

hen crisis or chaos intrude on our life, what are we to do? In a world of uncertainty and change, two women well-skilled in the field of astrology answer the call and come to the aid of many locals who might need a little guidance and direction.

For Erin Sullivan—a teacher and lecturer on astrology, psychology and myth—her astrological path began after reading The Pulse of Life at age 16, saying, “astrology has pursued me ever since.” From there, her passion for astrology has grown into a successful international and local practice which has included lecturing, editing for Penguin Books and authoring six books of her own, as well as working in radio and television.

Her colourful past also includes doing light shows in the ’60s for all the major bands in Vancouver, San Francisco and LA—as well as being part of the Hog Farm, the group that actually helped set up and put Woodstock together.

“The consciousness movement back then has come full circle, putting me in the place of using my knowledge of cosmology and the

human psyche to really help people put themselves in perspective and make good decisions,” Sullivan says.

People come to see her for practical matters like relocation, career advice and timing on business ventures, but her main practice is working on Melanie Lichtinger (left) and Erin Sullivan deeper psychological issues—giving people insight on their patterns of Typically, Lichtinger says, people come to behaviour so they can live more consciously. “I go to the core of the apparent see her while in challenging transition times, issue or complex,” she says. As an astrologer, like dealing with relationships, health or this involves looking at their astrological work issues; and, as with Sullivan, when they chart and planetary influences, as well as have practical concerns about the timing of examining a client’s history and current situ- launching a business or a question of relocation. “I assist them in how to be best aligned ation.

Melanie Lichtinger, a former lawyer in to the cosmic weather,” she says, noting that Germany with a specialization on family she also uses the tarot to go deeper in reveallaw and children’s rights, has been involved ing new insights and possibilities.

But is it actually possible to predict the in studying and practicing astrology for 14 years. But far from seeing her role in law and future? Both women tread carefully on this astrology as contradictory, she feels they’re point. They say that the consideration of ethactually parallel in nature; the notion of bal- ics is paramount (no death talk, for example) ance, harmony, peace and meaning extends and note that outcomes are not guaranteed from law into her spiritual and metaphysical and the power to freely choose is always available. teachings.

“We have both fate and free will,” says Sullivan, who assesses trends, timing and cycles where opportunities or pitfalls arise to then make an intelligent assumption.

For her part, Lichtinger feels that astrology describes “how the archetypal universal energies are orchestrated at a given time and how they can resonate in an individual’s life.” But she also says, “I can’t give that comfort [of absolute prediction]; we aren’t predetermined in our actions or decisions or under the control of any forces.”

Then what is it people come away with during an astrology session if there are no guarantees? “They feel affirmed with what they have always felt,” says Lichtinger. “I try and give them perspective on the bigger picture, helping to reframe their experience or crisis, their stuckness or disempowerment and not become so identified with it.”

Similarly, Sullivan helps her clients feel more centred. “People come away with a sense of belonging in their own space and a greater sense of self-empowerment,” she says.

“I help them see that they have options, and that choice is inherent in everything.”

Makes sense to me, as it sometimes can feel like we are fresh out of choices in life—and that is where Sullivan and Lichtinger come in, revealing positive possibilities in seemingly disheartening and fearful times. M Erin Sullivan can be reached at 298-0620 or erinsullivan.com or find Melanie Lichtinger at islandnet.com/~licht or 381-4299

Snoring is a health warning. Do not ignore it.

Snoring; a nuisance in the bedroom? Yes! But, new research shows that snoring and/or sleep apnea (when you temporarily stop breathing) can have huge ramifications on your health. It is estimated that around 60 % of adults suffer from this medical disorder, referred to as ‘Sleep Disordered Breathing’. The concern is that over 80% of people suffering from sleep apnea are going undiagnosed.

SNORING occurs when relaxed soft tissue in your throat vibrates, because your airway is being restricted while you are sleeping. The clincher is most often the tongue, which relaxes and falls back into your throat, blocking your airway.

Not only does this cause unconsciously interrupted sleep, but you starve your body of oxygen.

STOPPED BREATHING EPISODES while you are sleeping is clinically known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea or OSA. These episodes can happen many times an hour, and are most often associated with snoring. This sleep disorder, OSA, can be directly linked to life threatening health issues, like cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes. Other associated health issues include chronic fatigue, cognitive function, depression and obesity.

Those receiving treatment for sleep disordered breathing experience a marked improvement in their health and wellbeing.

The Simple Solution KEEPING THE AIRWAY OPEN while you sleep allows for normal air flow, reducing or stopping snoring and stop breathing episodes.

Dr Chris Robertson, highly acclaimed in orthodontic sleep medicine, developed a simple solution called the aveoTSD (Tongue Stabilizing Device). For Dr Robertson, a solution for snoring and sleep apnea became a personal crusade because he saw first hand the impacts of sleep disorders on personal relationships and health complications leading to early death – he lost his father prematurely due to sleep apnea.

“The aveo Tongue Stabilising Device (TSD) tackles the problem headon, keeping the airway open by gently holding the tongue forward, preventing it from blocking the airway”, says Dr. Robertson. He adds, “The aveoTSD is a CLINICALLY PROVEN and SIMPLE TO USE antisnoring and apnea aid, bringing harmony to bedrooms around the world”. This revolutionary device is available worldwide, primarily at your local pharmacy, dentist, or sleep specialist.

“There’s too much of a tendency for snorers to shrug off their condition, even though it directly impacts their day-to-day social life, loss of intimacy in the bedroom, poor concentration at work, and debilitating fatigue” says Dr. Robertson.

Snoring can result in emotional as well as physical suffering, but it can be treated in an easy, non-intrusive way and people’s quality of life can be improved dramatically. If you snore, have stop breathing episodes, and suffer from fatigue, morning headaches, memory loss; these are symptoms not to ignore as you may be at risk. Talk to your doctor.

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GREENE

Ancient Healing

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Sekhem puts a modern spin on an old Egyptian practice

rgreene@mondaymag.com

What are we talking about? Sekhem Energy Healing Who and Where? Casey Mulcaster, RTR, R.A, EOT, Certified Reflexologist, Sekhem Level 2 Practitioner (590-4631, trispiralaroma.com) Can ya dig it? After being diagnosed with endometriosis when I was 17, I tried as many traditional and holistic treatments I could withstand (and afford) in a search for some kind of relief or cure. With every treatment I tried, on some level I registered a sense of relief as my body and mind processed all the different scenarios of my biology being a physical manifestation of a subconscious understanding, and expression, of my self. And every practice helped me, whether by educating me to eliminate certain foods from my diet in an effort to reduce symptoms, by providing instant relaxation relief or by making me question that my need for healing was one that needed to encompass my emotional self as much my physical self. But it occurred to me at some point that those two aspects were absolutely intertwined. From a symptomatic perspective, the more I pondered that thought and implemented other nutritional and holistic practices, the more my condition seemed to improve. Ever on the lookout for ways to tap into my pain-body more readily, I answered the call from Casey Mulcaster, a local aromatherapist and Sekhem energy practitioner.

Sekhem is rooted in an ancient Egyptian practice of healing that connects us through the process of deconstruction and regeneration. The word “Sekhem” itself means “power” or “might” and Sekhem energy is an intelligent one that guides us to identify the root cause of any problem or issue we may be encountering by allowing us to move beyond blockages or disease held within our physical form.

Say what? I had never actually heard of Sekhem energy healing before and I have to admit I didn’t do a lot of research prior to my session. (Sometimes knowing too much about what I’m about to experience makes me feel as though my instinctual impression of it will be tainted.) Feeling somewhat rushed and only mildly relaxed when I arrived at Mulcaster Mansion, I was

greeted by Casey and developed an instant rapport with her. It put me in the right mind-state to be at ease and ready to welcome any kind of energy healing that may be available. Honestly, the experience jumped way beyond any expectations I could have had.

Are you sitting comfortably?

Casey explained that I was to choose an aromatherapy scent (I immediately chose jasmine) and set an intention for the session, which I would then record and agree to fulfil within a period of seven days; and after the healing treatment was completed, Casey said that she would also record any information she may have channelled. (Negative reactions were not to be recorded, however, as part of the purpose of the healing is to assist in shedding light on the automatic pain responses.) As a generally very happy and healthy individual, I set my intent to learn as much as I could to understand how I had developed endometriosis in the first place; I wanted to make my way back to the beginning and see if I could find out where I may have planted the seeds.

With the etheric scent of jasmine filling the air, I lay on the table as Casey began the treatment with a chant and a prayer.

She moved around me in a counter-clockwise direction (symbolic of turning back time) and interpreted and exchanged energy with me by holding her hands over my body for varying periods of time.

So, how are you feeling? When the treatment came to a close, Casey brought me into awareness and gave me a few minutes to rouse myself from the table. When I stood up, I felt like dancing—not choreographed dance, mind you, but the more simple act of experiencing movement for the sake of movement and allowing the body to flow freely. After a couple of glasses of lemon water, we started to discuss what she had uncovered and how I was feeling. Casey explained that in Sekhem, the knees

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Would I try it again? I am in complete awe of this experience and I know I have Casey to thank—even though a million “thank you’s” would not be enough, I’ll start with one and hope I can return the energy in an equally positive way at some point. I have been profoundly touched and changed as a result of my Sekhem experience, so to not try it again would be the height of personal folly. Bring on the light!

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are like filing cabinets of old patterns that no longer serve you and I reflected on how what she was relaying to me could reconcile with any thoughts I may have uncovered so far.

Over the course of the next seven days, I felt a whole range of things. It started with immediate relaxation, and days two and three found me wanting to go somewhere very quiet and sit by myself to just listen to whatever was going on in my head— even if I didn’t feel like I could articulate any of it.

On the fourth day I woke up pretty early and had to get up and start writing in my journal; I wasn’t expecting the flood of emotion and information that I was receiving/feeling/channeling. I started thinking about very specific moments and memories from my childhood that have had a profound effect on me and started to piece all of those things together and create a picture of how they have manifested in my adult life. After many tears and a lot of writing, I felt as though I had made a very big breakthrough and actually felt lightness in my abdomen as though someone had physically removed something that had been pressing on my pelvis.

Again, I totally wasn’t expecting the clarity of the thoughts and my interpretation of events and how they have come to affect me now—or, more importantly, how I reacted to these events and allowed my reactions to shape me now. The understanding that I gained about my power to heal was tremendous. Wow—there was a big fat “wow” factor, and that’s all I can say about that!

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Shockwave Treatment spells relief for Islanders suffering Plantar Fasciitis European Pain Reduction Treatment Now Available in Victoria VICTORIA, BC – Vancouver Island’s first Extra Corporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) unit, designed to provide relief to those who suffer nagging chronic ailments such as Plantar Fasciitis, has been introduced by Victoria’s Synergy Health Management.

According to Dr. Jamie Grimes, local chiropractor, Plantar Fasciitis “is a painful inflammatory condition. The pain is usually felt on the underside of the heel, and is often the most intense during the first steps you take in the morning.”

Plantar Fasciitis is common in runners and athletes as well as individuals whose jobs require a lot of walking on hard surfaces or those who have flattening of the arches. Sometimes known as “the flip-flop disease,” some individuals put themselves at risk for developing Plantar Fasciitis by wearing shoes such as rubber sandals and flip-flips without sufficient arch support.

“I was treated in an ESWT study six years ago and it resolved my two and a half year old tennis elbow issue” says Grimes. “All conservative treatments including cortisone injections had failed to that point. We loved the treatment so much that Synergy eventually bought the technology for our treatment center on Quadra Street.”

Grimes was his own first patient when he received the new technology in Victoria. “I used Shockwave Therapy to work on a painful Plantar Fasciitis problem I’d endured for 2 years. Six weeks later I was pain free and now I am

hiking and running again” ESWT uses short, intense energy waves that travel faster than the speed of sound to actually regenerate tissue, encourage re-growth of tendons and bone, increase blood vessels and stimulate specific cell growth. In addition to stimulating the healing process, Shockwave Therapy has a direct effect on nerves and diminishes pain.

“Synergy has had Shockwave for just over two years now” says Grimes “and the results we are seeing are consistent with all the research.”

Professional athletes in the NBA, PGA, MLB and more have been using Shockwave Therapy for more than 10 years. Victoria’s Rich Harden, major league baseball pitcher, has said, “Our clubhouse uses shockwave therapy regularly to help us heal faster from nagging tendon and bone injuries. It definitely works and gets me back on the field sooner.”

Synergy Health Center offers consultations to anyone suffering Plantar Fasciitis or other painful joint and tendon injuries and wants to determine if Shockwave can help them. “A lot of people mistakenly believe they have to live with the pain, or that if they rest it will get better and that’s just not always true,” says Grimes. “Most of us can’t interrupt our lives to stay completely off our feet for very long.”

#106-3960 Quadra St 250-727-3737 FAX 250-727-3732 www.synergyhealthmanagement.com

VICTORIA’S ONE STOP HEALTH CLINIC • CHIROPRACTIC • PHYSIOTHERAPY • MASSAGE THERAPY • ACTIVE RELEASE TECHNIQUE • CUSTOM MADE ORTHOTICS • FAMILY DOCTORS

• SHOCKWAVE THERAPY • NATUROPATHY • ACUPUNCTURE • ATHLETIC CONDITIONING • EXERCISE REHABILITATION • NUTRITION

#106-3960 QUADRA ST.

727-3737 727-3737 FAX:727-3732

www.synergyhealthmanagement.com BODY, MIND, SPIRIT OCTOBER 2009 15

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762 Humboldt Street, (in the Astoria) Victoria, BC 250-382-6335 BODY, MIND, SPIRIT OCTOBER 2009