Live in Balance Magazine by Sonya Stell

2015

liveinbalance YOUR HEALTH + WELLNESS MAGAZINE

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liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

2015

liveinbalance YOUR HEALTH + WELLNESS MAGAZINE

THE ASPIRATION EDITION!

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liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Living in balance is all about becoming the better version of you!

Live in Balance magazine AUTUMN EDITION

2015

CONTENT FEATURE: THE HEADLINES 06 Be the best “you” HEALTH & PREVENTION 12 Vitamins after summer 13 Enter our contest! 14 Stay healthy and boost your immune system 14 The importance of visiting your doctors 16 Boost your immunity NUTRITION & RECIPES 18 Hormone free meats 19 Straight from the carrot 20 Loco for the coconut 21 Non-GMO project 22 A healthier take on Mac n’ Cheese 22 Apple cinnamon butternut squash soup

44 Scrubbing with sugar 45 Fashion Forward 46 Why routine dental care is important

SUCCESS & HAPPINESS 23 Together time 24 Success or happiness? 26 To do... or not to do...? HOME LIFE & RELATIONSHIPS 28 Relieving stress with fish... 30 Burning candles for you... and your home 32 Great rooms are great! 36 The modern day kitchen... 37 I just bought a house, now what? 38 Fantastic Finds GREEN & CLEAN LIVING 40 Removing allergens from your home BEAUTY & SELF CARE 43 Avoiding the knife

Straight from the Carrot

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

PET HEALTH & WELLNESS 47 Bonding with your pet FITNESS & RECREATION 49 Success is earned (not deserved)

Great of

Interest Hormone free meats

Bonding with your pet

+ Writing | Sonya Stell

Currently, six different steroidal hormones are approved by the FDA for use in “food animals.” These are the natural hormones estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, and the synthetic hormones trenbolone acetate, progestin melengestrol acetate, and zeranol...

Burning

Candles ...for you and your home! Discover how candles can actually be beneficial to your health and your home decor.

Set aside time to hang out If you want to bond with your pet, you have to actually spend time with it. Most pets enjoy...

Mac n’ Cheese Recipe 22 6 liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Feature

The Aspiration Edition

Be the best

“You”

catching your dreams

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

+ Writing | Sonya Stell & Nancy Stell

Feature

The Aspiration Edition

“Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.” - Helen Keller

n our world, everyone gets a prize; we are constantly told that everyone should be given opportunities and that everyone is beautiful in his or her own way. We are also told that no one person is better than the next because as human beings, we are all equal. When we successfully manage to harness our unique talents, we are all capable of achieving amazing thing. This may be true in some respect, but not everyone is actually equal. In all honesty, people are born into poverty and others into riches. Some people are more naturally intelligent than other. These are characteristics that are merely natural privileges that some people inherit. On the contrary, these characteristics are not what make some people “better” than others, it has absolutely nothing to do with what you inherited and everything to do with what you endeavour to become. Being a “better” person is essentially all about an individual striving to be better. This is because it does not matter where you came from or into what situation you were born, you still have the choice to become the “better” version of yourself. You can decided to compromise your potential by spending your time with the wrong crowd, allowing your potential to be diminished, or accepting the fact that you just cannot do any better - which is not the case. On the other hand, you can expect more from yourself, never thinking that any dream of yours is too far out of reach; and instead, considering the fact that you can reach your goals and accomplish those dreams, no matter what they may be. Here are a few ways that you can actually make yourself a better person, no matter if you happened to draw some short straws along the way: Exposing Yourself To More It is easy to become what you do. You are ultimately the product of all of your experiences, so rather than limiting yourself to reality television and teenage fictional novels, read widely and watch brilliant films. Take the opportunity to experience different cultures from your own, even just by eating foods from around the world and challenging yourself to learn more. You will become a better person if you leave your comfort zone and travel, opening your eyes to information and experiences that can only make you more well-rounded. Often we are more interested in telling stories than quietly listening to others. Take in the knowledge of others, process what they are saying and often you will surprise yourself on what you can actually learn. Eating Well and Exercising More If you eat fast and unhealthy food all of the time, you will feel unhealthy a lot of the time. Especially if you partake in smoking and drinking every night of the week, while living off of fast food restaurants. After even just a week of indulging in this lifestyle, chances are you will not have any motivation and very likely a negative attitude. You reap what you sew! Eating well and exercising, as well as caring for your body over all helps to keep you in a positive mindspace and ward off depression or a lack of energy.

Respecting People and Their Time Every one of us seeks respect from people and expects that these people will respect our time. If you are demanding respect for yourself, ensure that you are also respecting others and their time as well. It is very disrespectful when someone does not consider you to be worthy of an explanation and eye contact, so be sure to always be kind to others and give them the attention they deserve. Remember the golden rule: treat others the way you want to be treated. Standing Up For Yourself You were given your own set of unique talents to use to your advantage. Contrary to what you may believe, more people care about what you have to say than you may think. So, when you have an opinion, share it… within reason of course. Do not say whatever you feel all of the time, instead, form well-constructed arguments when it concerns something about which you are passionate. Knowledge is power, so take the time to educate yourself on matters of interest and then share your awareness with others. So whether you are aspiring to be a better person overall, or achieve a goal that has been long overdue, perhaps move to a place you have always wanted to live, or go for that job that you would like to obtain, always remember these four suggestions. If you choose to keep yourself within your comfort zone and never explore what the world has to offer then you will never become the best version of yourself. If you are treating your body poorly and maintaining an unhealthy lifestyle, you will not generate a positive attitude and motivation to conquer your goals. Standing up for yourself and respecting others and their time will allow your true talents to shine through. Consider every person to be worthy of your time and respect, as every relationship you develop will impact your future in a positive or negative way, and starting off on the right foot should steer you in the way of positivity. Treating others the way that you would like to be treated is the key to gaining the respect of others and having them value your time, though, you should always stand up for what you believe in and sever the relationships of those who are trying to bring your down. Ultimately, this will help you to become a “better” person, whatever your own personal definition of “better” may be and help you to aspire to become the best version of yourself. Food for thought: Are you an eternal optimist or pessimist? Often our believes are deep routed by our upbringing and we tend to lean more to one than the other. Do you remember being told, “in every cloud there is a silver lining?” or perhaps “there’s a light at the end of the tunnel?”. Maybe your family felt it was better to be prepared for the inevitable lessening the ultimate disappointment. Both sides are able to tout the reasons it is better to feel one way than the other; however, a Realist might ultimately be the best way to go.

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Feature

The Aspiration Edition

food for thought

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

aspiring to be the best version of you

Feature

The Aspiration Edition

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” - Aristotle

Benefiting from the strengths of both sides, happiness is a journey not a destination. Think positively, but with common sense and in the end it may be the key to life and happiness. Are your conversations with yourself positive or negative? Most of us chatter away to ourselves all day long, but choosing to do so in a negative manor can destroy our ability to achieve our dreams. Our actions are inspired by our thoughts and if we change the way we think, we can change the way we act. Consider the following when you have your next chat: • Awareness • Positive Affirmations • Positive Scripts • Present Tense Messages • Confront Fears • Focus on Enjoyable Moments Keeping a positive mind for yourself will benefit you in all that you do, whether at work, your relationship with your family, or friends.

Is your world your oyster? Sometimes our greatest resource is as close as a phone call away, or net working meeting, mentor or peer group. Minimize learning everything the hard way, by learning from the experience of others. Reading, listening to podcasts or finding a good mentor are all excellent ways of gaining more knowledge. But remember; always write down the lessons you have learned so you won’t forget to apply them later. What comes first: feeling good or looking good? It is often believed that if you put on a new outfit and get a new hairdo you will look good and therefore feel good. But what if you consider it to be the other way around. If you feel good, you are more likely to look good. When you have healthy internal organs, your skin is clear, your nails and teeth are strong, along with gleaming hair and an ideal body weight; all aspects of feeling good. You also experience more energy and a more vibrant life and these translate into a confidence, a subtle glow that exudes from you making you look good. Start from within, “you are what you eat” and you will look great!

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Publishers' Note

Live in Balance and be the very

Insight

best of you

triving to be our very best each and every day is something we all try to do, but often we get caught up in negative self-talk or day-to-day routines that limit us in so many ways. This issue of Live In Balance offers you points to ponder and ways to take a good look at ones self to figure out how we can achieve the goal of becoming our very best! The Aspiration Edition reminds you of everyday activities; options and thoughts that will help you better focus on who you truly are and not where you came from. Successfully managing to harness our unique talents, we only then truly come shinning through showing the world the best of who we can be. It starts from within, so in this issue we discuss why vitamins play an important role in a balanced diet, how exercise will help you live a more product life and why multitasking doesn’t actually accomplish more. As the cooler weather rolls in we are also drawn to our ‘comfort foods’ so we have included an old favorite, Mac & Cheese with a healthier twist to it plus a delicious soup that incorporates the flavours of the fall - apples and squash! We also spend a lot more time indoors and candles can not only improve the ambiance of your home, but also add some value to your overall health. Explore the many reasons why in our feature on page thirty. And this issue wouldn’t be complete with out a great story on bonding with your pets in our very popular pet section. A language each to their own, your cat or dog has very specific way of communicating with you. Learn what they are saying in our feature Bonding With Your Pet. We also have some exceptional contributors in this issue with Sweatman Law Firm sharing tips

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

on “I just bought a house, now what?” and Judy Longstreet who shared great information on how reflexology will help keep you healthy and boost your immune system. Local Realtor Jacqueline Guagliardi allowed us a peek inside a beautiful listing she has showcasing the great room in a home that was designed by famed architect Christopher Simmonds and built by John Longstreet in 2003. Today 85% of prospective homebuyers are looking for this open concept lifestyle that allows multi generational families to all enjoy each other’s company. Who isn’t up for a simple homemade recipe to create your own facile and body scrubs? Sugar works wonders when used as an exfoliator - who would have thought? Plus learn how to rejuvenate your face without under going the knife, shared with us by Clam Waters Day Spa. Have you tried 9Round yet? It’s the latest trend sweeping our region with a work out routine for men and woman of every age. Janet-Lynn Morrison just opened in early September and already the membership is growing. Want to find out why? Enter our contest and you could win a 6-month membership. Details are on page thirteen and the draw will be held at the end of the year just in time for your New Years Resolution! You will also find more incredible fantastic finds, fashion tips and a unique way to entertain guests at your upcoming events… all are included in this issue of Live In Balance. As we wrap up 2015 we are exciting to bring you our holiday/winter issue of In Our Space, just in time for the holiday season followed by another great issue of Live In Balance, our winter edition in mid January. We are always anxious to share the products and services available right here in our beautiful region we call home - so remember to ‘shop local’ so we can all continue to enjoy what we often take for granite. …And enjoy living in balance! Nancy & Sonya Stell

Publishers' Note

Insight

Giving every member of the community the opportunity to live a healthy, positive and balanced life. EDITORIAL: Written contributions and photos are welcome. We appreciate content from our local professionals. However, all content is subject to editorial review and becomes the property of Live In Balance magazine. Submit your editorial to info.ourspace@gmail.com

PUBLISHERS AND EDITORIAL DIRECTORS Sonya Stell and Nancy Stell

DESIGN AND CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sonya Stell

PHOTOGRAPHY/VIDEOGRAPHY Sonya Stell

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS HEALTH & PREVENTION

NUTRITION & RECIPES

SUCCESS & HAPPINESS

HOME LIFE & RELATIONSHIPS

Sonya Stell Judy Longstreet Naturally Bulk

Sonya Stell Nancy Stell The Non-GMO Project

Nancy Stell Sonya Stell Nancy Stell

Sonya Stell Nancy Stell Sweatman Law Firm

BEAUTY & SELF CARE

FITNESS & RECREATION

PET HEALTH & WELLNESS

GREEN & CLEAN LIVING

Carla Furfaro Sonya Stell Nancy Stell

Dr. Rick Kattouf II 9Round

Sonya Stell

TO PARTICIPATE IN OUR NEXT ISSUE CONTACT: PUBLISHER/MARKETING:

Nancy Stell nancy@liveinbalancemagazine.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR:

Sonya Stell sonya@liveinbalancemagazine.com

EDITORIAL NOTE: The information provided in this magazine is for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified and licensed practitioner or health care provider. The opinions expressed here are not necessarily those of Our Space Publishing, its affiliates, or divisional companies. Different views may appear in feature articles and publications that may not be the opinion of Live In Balance and its affiliates. Articles in Live In Balance magazine are copyrighted and must not be reprinted, duplicated, or transmitted without permission. Printed in Canada by Our Space Publishing Copyright ÂŠ 2015 by Live In Balance magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine, including photography, may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher. Printed on 30% post-consumer paper with vegetable oil based ink. 100% recyclable. Please share this publication with friends and family and recycle when finished.

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vitamins after summer Health

Prevention

+ Writing | Sonya Stell

With the cool weather now upon us; maybe you have even started to prepare for the coming winter. But, have you thought about vitamins? Vitamins and diet It’s a well-known fact: a balanced diet is the basis for healthy living. One of the issues that are at the heart of current social concerns is eating well. There is a variety of television shows on cooking and gastronomy, a marked interest for organic products and the endless battle against fast food are all examples of people’s interest for healthy eating. An effective strategy to ensure a balanced diet is to follow the Canada Food Guide. Among other things, it provides recommendations on the number of servings that should be eaten every day for each food group. Vitamins mainly come from one food group: fruits and vegetables. The number of recommended daily servings for this food group varies between 4 and 10 servings depending on the person’s age. For example, if you are a man between 19 and 50 years of age, the Canada Food Guide recommends that you eat between 8 and 10 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Quite a feat, isn’t it? Vitamin D: the summer vitamin One of the most important functions of vitamin D is maintaining bone health. This vitamin is mainly produced by the skin in response to sun exposure. Certain foods also provide vitamin D. It is estimated that sun exposure is the main source of vitamin D, therefore, it is easier to meet daily needs during the summer when the sun is most present. For the remainder of the year, several people should consider taking a vitamin D supplement in particular. For example, if you are 50 years old or more, experts recommend taking 800 to 2000 IU of vitamin D per day. In reality, few people manage to meet their recommended vitamin intake. Ask your pharmacist to help you determine what your vitamin D intake should be and how you should go about achieving it.

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Vitamin and mineral supplements: an interesting option If, like many North-Americans, you do not follow the Canada Food Guide’s recommendations to the letter, it’s a good idea to take a daily vitamin and mineral supplement. These supplements do not replace healthy eating, they complete it. There are several formulations on the market and it can sometimes be difficult to make an informed choice. Ask your pharmacist to help you determine which product is best for you by keeping in mind the following information: • your age • your gender • your lifestyle • your health status • the medications you take • your budget. Here are a few tips concerning vitamin and mineral supplements: •Take them every day as indicated by the manufacturer of the product. • Do not take more than what is recommended. • Take them with food unless indicated otherwise by your pharmacist. • Ask your pharmacist if you should take the supplements at a different time than your other medication because they may reduce the absorption of certain medications. • Choose a supplement according to your specific needs. For example, you may choose a product containing more calcium, iron or vitamin D. Taking vitamin and mineral supplements can be beneficial to many people, but this is especially true for people who aren’t sure if their diet provides all the essential nutrients necessary to stay healthy. The fall is an ideal time to start preparing your body for the long cold winter ahead. Just as certain animals make their reserves for the winter, why not prepare for winter yourself ? After all, it’s an easy way of staying fit so you can take full advantage of the joys of winter!

ENTER

Health

Prevention

OUR CONTEST ...for a chance to win a

6-Month Membership valued at $500.00 for 9Round Fitness in Orangeville! Draw to be held December 31st, 2015

Email us your name and telephone number at info.ourspace@gmail.com Contest details, rules and regulations are also posted online on the Live in Balance magazine website: www.liveinbalancemagazine.com. All those who enter any Our Space Publishing contest(s) must be over the age of 18 and live within Canada. Those who enter may only enter each contest once, and must enter prior to the date listed.

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Health

Prevention

Stay Healthy

and boost your immune system

+ Writing | Judy Longstreet R.R.Pr., CH.

The immune system is the body’s defense against germs, viruses and other invaders. The thymus gland, spleen, tonsils, adenoids and lymph nodes, along with a variety of white blood cells, all protect the body. The lymphatic system is a network of capillaries, vessels, trunks and ducts and plays a crucial role in the body’s immune response. Do you suffer with; Fatigue, Allergies, Sinus Congestion, Headaches, Stress, Colds, Coughs, Feeling Grumpy or Overwhelmed? The added strain on everyone’s immune system today should warn us to find time to unwind and relax. Only when the body is well balanced is a person in good shape to ward off illness. Reflexology is a gentle way of giving yourself a time out while getting the extra benefit of stimulating the immune system. A reflexology treatment works on the entire foot while concentrating on lymph node reflexes. Consequently it is similar to having a lymphatic drainage massage, as the treatment helps maintain blood flow and fluid balance

with constant beneficial effects for the free flow of lymph. Treatments help deepen the breathing making the respiratory system work more effectively therefore improving the flow of lymph. Peristalsis is induced, which also helps lymph flow. Invigorating the action of the muscles benefits the circulatory system as well as the immune/lymphatic system. The stimulating effect of reflexology assists in breaking down deposits in the feet, thus it decongests energy pathways allowing the immune lymphatic system to work optimally (as it does for all systems). Preventive care such as reflexology, good nutrition and fluid intake, seem to bolster immune defenses, so you catch fewer colds and are able to function during stressful times. Having regular reflexology as maintenance, helps to keep your body strong and healthy. If you have been, or are sick, then reflexology can boost your immune system and aid in your recovery, reducing the amount of sick days you experience.

doctors

The importance of visiting your

+ Writing | Sonya Stell

When you were growing up, your parents probably made sure you had an annual checkup with your doctor. But as you’ve grown older, you may have gotten out of this habit. Health professionals stress that these regular exams are important to help identify risk factors and problems before they become serious. If diseases are caught early, treatments are usually much more effective. Ultimately, having a regular doctor’s visit will help you live a long and healthy life. Doctor’s Visit: The Prevention Checkup Depending on your age, sex, and family medical history, a checkup with your doctor may include:

• • • • • •

• 14

Blood, urine, vision, and hearing tests to evaluate your overall liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

health Assessments of your blood pressure, cholesterol level, and weight A discussion about your diet and exercise habits and any tobacco, drug, and alcohol use Immunizations and booster shots Screenings to assess your risk of developing certain diseases, including diabetes (if you already have high blood pressure or high cholesterol) and cancer Depending on your age and sexual lifestyle, testing for STDs and possibly HIV Starting at age 50, or younger if you have a family history, a screening test for colorectal cancer

•

A discussion about depression and stress to evaluate your mental health

Health

Prevention

Doctor’s Visit: Concerns for Men For men, in addition to checking weight, high blood pressure, and other basics, your doctor’s visit may specifically include: •

•

Starting at age 50, or younger if you have a family history, a rectal exam to check for abnormal bumps in the prostate and a prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test to screen for prostate cancer Between the ages of 65 and 75 if you have ever smoked cigarettes, an abdominal exam to check for an enlargement in your aorta; an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a weakness in the lining of the aorta (a large blood vessel in your chest and abdomen), can develop with age and become a life-threatening problem.

Doctor’s Visit: Concerns for Women For women, in addition to checking weight, high blood pressure, and other basics, your doctor’s visit may specifically include: • • • •

A test for cervical cancer, called a Pap smear, every one to three years A clinical breast exam to check for any unusual lumps or bumps in your breasts Starting at age 50 (or younger if you have a strong family history for breast cancer), a breast cancer screening with a mammogram every one to two years Starting at age 65, a referral for a bone density test to screen for osteoporosis, the disease that causes brittle, fragile bones and typically affects older women; women with more than one risk factor for osteoporosis may start earlier

Doctor’s Visit: Preparation It’s important for you to play an active role to get the most out of your doctor’s visit. Before your exam, review and update your family health history, be prepared to ask if you’re due for any general screenings or vaccinations, and come up with a list of questions if you have particular health concerns. During your actual doctor’s visit, don’t be shy about getting your questions answered. Also, if your doctor gives you advice about specific health issues, don’t hesitate to take notes. Time is often limited during these exams, but by coming prepared you’re sure to get the most out of your checkup. Don’t Forget Your Eyes & Mouth It is also equally as important to visit your optometrist and dentist on a regular basis. As we age, our vision can decrease and the need for glasses may become of utmost importance, especially for driving and completing daily tasks. Also, your eye doctor will check your overall eye health and spot any abnormalities that could lead to serious complications down the road. Same goes for your dentist. With age, our teeth can become softer and prone to decay. Having a simple cavity filled or root canal completed, is much better than leaving your oral issues untreated. Studies have shown that poor dental hygiene can lead to early heart attacks and other serious conditions. So be sure to book your appointment at least twice a year, to have those pearly whites shining bright! liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Health

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Prevention

Health

Prevention

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Nutrition

Recipes

+ Writing | Sonya Stell

hormone

free meats

should I make the switch?

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Meat may seem to be a fundamentally natural product, but the beef, pork, chicken, turkey, and more that graces our tables typically comes from animals treated with hormones and other unappetizing substances. Currently, six different steroidal hormones are approved by the FDA for use in “food animals.” These are the natural hormones estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, and the synthetic hormones trenbolone acetate, progestin melengestrol acetate, and zeranol, all of which make animals grow faster and/or produce leaner meat for food. Dairy cattle are often treated with recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH) to increase milk production. Hormones are banned for use in poultry (but that doesn’t stop chicken producers from marketing their birds as hormone-free). Antibiotics are also routinely administered to animals raised for food. In some cases, these antibiotics protect animals from the unsanitary living conditions found in industrial feedlots. In other cases, these antibiotics can encourage weight gain or counter the effects of other treatments. Dairy cows given rBGH, for example, sometimes develop udder infections that then require antibiotic treatments. An astonishing 80 percent of all antibiotics sold are used on livestock. Let that sink in. This rampant use is creating antibiotic-resistant “super bacteria.” According to the Environmental Working Group, 87 percent of tested meat samples (turkey, pork, beef, and chicken) were contaminated by at least one species of antibioticresistant bacteria. Doesn’t exactly make you hungry. Beyond hormones and antibiotics, other drugs are given to animals to enhance growth rates and meat quality. The drug ractopamine, for example, is fed to pigs, turkeys, and cattle to make them produce larger quantities of leaner meat with less feed. Ractopamine is not approved for human use, but because it’s added to feed in the weeks immediately prior to slaughter, traces of the drug remain in meat from treated animals. Is your food free of antibiotics or growth hormones? The best way to ensure your meat is free of drugs, hormones, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria is to buy organic meat varieties, which by law cannot come from treated animals. Local farms with pastured animals may also be a safer meat source. Talk to your nearby producers to find out what treatments they administer or feed to animals farmed for meat. Farms that don’t use any tend to be well worth whatever premium they may charge for their products.

Nutrition

Recipes

Straight from the

the Carrot One Serving of Veggies

Just one medium carrot or a handful of baby carrots counts as one serving of your daily veggies.

Source of Beta-Carotene

Orange carrots are a great source of beta-carotene. Our bodies turn betacarotene into vitamin A.

Purple Anti-Oxidants

Purple carrots contain purple pigments called anthocyanins, which act as antioxidants that protect the body.

Source of Fibre

Carrots are a good source of fibre, which is good for the health of your digestive system.

The Perfect Snack

Carrots have a higher natural sugar content than all other vegetables with the exception of beets. This is why they make a wonderful snack when eaten raw and make a tasty addition to a variety of cooked dishes.

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Loco for the Coconut

Nutrition

Recipes

Good For The Immune System

Prevents Heart Disease Believed to lower incidence of heart disease

Lauric acid is abundant in coconut and plays a fundamental role in building your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s immune system.

Promotes Weight Maintenance

Provides a vegetarian-sourced saturated fat consisting of medium chain fatty acids (MCFA), which promotes weight maintenance without raising cholesterol levels

Helps Eliminate Disease

Good For Digestion

Believed to help kill disease-causing bacteria, fungi, yeasts and viruses

Coconut is said to be easily digested and absorbed

Stroke and Brain Disorder Preventative

Believed to help prevent strokes and brain disorders 20

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Healthy Sugar Consumption Slows sugar released into the bloodstream

Multiple Ways To Enjoy

Coconut is available in stores in various forms, including: raw, coconut oil, coconut sugar, and coconut water

Nutrition

Recipes

Non-GMO Project + Writing | The Non-GMO Project

The History of the Non-GMO Project The Non-GMO Project started in Berkeley, at The Natural Grocery Co., which is a small neighborhood natural grocery store. In 2003, in response to letters from customers who were concerned about a GM soy lecithin that the store was carrying, a group of employees initiated the “People Want to Know Campaign.” This effort rallied 161 grocery stores and co-ops throughout the United States in a letter-writing campaign to manufacturers of natural food products and supplements in the U.S. The goal was to discover the GMO status of products, so that the stores’ consumers could be offered an informed choice. The results of this campaign were mixed, with a central problem being the lack of a consistent, industry-wide standard for what non-GMO was. Prior to this, in 2001, The Big Carrot Natural Food Market in Toronto, Ontario implemented a non-GMO purchasing policy after a year and a half of research. They simply discontinued those product lines that were not confirmed by the manufacturer to be non-GMO. It was a radical and very successful move for the store. But the absence of an authoritative standard for non-GMO created problems for this effort, as well, and led The Big Carrot to look for a more comprehensive and reliable way in which to continue providing its customers with non-GMO foods. In 2005, The Natural Grocery Company and the Big Carrot Natural Food Market teamed up to form the Non-GMO Project, with a common goal of creating a standardized meaning of non-GMO for the North American food industry. To give the Project the rigorous scientific foundation and world-class technical support necessary for this endeavor, the stores began working with the Global ID Group, the world’s leaders in non-GMO testing, certification, and consulting. In the spring of 2007, the Non-GMO Project expanded its Board of Directors to include representatives from all stakeholder groups in the natural products industry, including consumers, retailers, farmers, and manufacturers. Working to give the Project a solid foundation comprised of as many perspectives as possible, this dynamic Board then formed advisory boards for both technical and policy issues. What are GMO’s? GMOs (or “genetically modified organisms”) are organisms whose genetic material has been artificially manipulated in a laboratory through genetic engineering, or GE. This relatively new science creates unstable combinations of plant, animal, bacteria and viral genes that do not occur in nature or through traditional crossbreeding methods.

For consumers, it can be difficult to stay up-to-date on food ingredients that are at-risk of being genetically modified, as the list of at-risk agricultural ingredients is frequently changing. As part of the Non-GMO Project’s commitment to informed consumer choice, we work diligently to maintain an accurate list of risk ingredients. Agricultural products are segmented into two groups: (1) those that are high-risk of being GMO because they are currently in commercial production, and (2) those that have a monitored risk because suspected or known incidents of contamination have occurred and/or the crops have genetically modified relatives in commercial production with which cross-pollination (and consequently contamination) is possible. For more information on the Non-GMO Project’s testing and verification of risk ingredients and processed foods, visit www. nongmoproject.org Tomatoes: In 1994, genetically modified Flavr Savr tomatoes became the first commercially produced GMOs. They were brought out of production just a few years later, in 1997, due to problems with flavor and ability to hold up in shipping. There are no genetically engineered tomatoes in commercial production, and tomatoes are considered “low-risk” by the Non-GMO Project Standard. Potatoes: The Simplot White Russet™ potato recently acquired USDA and FDA approval and went into commercial production. In August 2015, the Non-GMO Project added the potato to our Monitored Crop list. As a genetically modified organism, the Simplot potato is not allowed in any form in a Non-GMO Project Verified product. Genetically modified NewLeaf potatoes were introduced by Monsanto in 1996. Due to consumer rejection by several fast-food chains and chip makers, the product was never successful and was discontinued in the spring of 2001. Salmon: A company called AquaBounty is currently petitioning the FDA to approve its genetically engineered variety of salmon, which has met with fierce consumer resistance. Pigs: A genetically engineered variety of pig, called Enviropig was developed by scientists at the University of Guelph, with research starting in 1995 and government approval sought beginning in 2009. In 2012 the University announced an end to the Enviropig program, and the pigs themselves were euthanized in June 2012. Non-GMO Project located at 1200 Harris Avenue, Suite #305, Bellingham WA for general questions visit our website at www.nongmoproject.org or email us at info@nongmoproject.org.

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Nutrition

Recipes

a healthier take on

Mac n’ Cheese

apple cinnamon

Butternut Squash Soup

+ Writing | Nancy Stell

+ Writing | Sonya Stell

Ingredients:

1 teaspoon olive oil 1 cup finely chopped onion (about 1 medium) 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 garlic clove, minced 1 1/2 cups 1% low-fat milk 1 bay leaf 1/2 cup crumbled goats cheese 3/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, divided 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni Cooking spray 2/3 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese 2/3 cup panko (Japanese breadcrumbs) 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion to pan; cook 8 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Add flour and garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Stir in milk and bay leaf; bring to a boil. Cook 2 minutes or until thick, stirring constantly with a whisk. Add goats cheese, 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, and salt; stir until cheeses melt. Discard bay leaf. Preheat oven to 375°. Cook pasta in boiling water 5 minutes or until almost tender, omitting salt and fat; drain well. Add pasta to cheese mixture, stirring well. Place about 1/2 cup pasta mixture into each of 6 (1-cup) ramekins coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella. Top evenly with remaining pasta mixture. Combine remaining 1/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano and panko; sprinkle evenly over pasta mixture. Spray lightly with cooking spray; sprinkle with black pepper. Bake at 375° for 25 minutes or until heated. 22

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Ingredients:

Cubbed Butternut Squash Two medium (8 cups) Apple 1 large, Pealed and chopped Onion 1 large Coconut Sugar 2 tablespoons Sea Salt 3/4 teaspoon Cinnamon 3/4 teaspoon Pepper Just a dash (to taste) Chicken Broth 3 cups Milk 3/4 cups Plain Yogurt 3/4 cups Chives 2 tablespoons

Try this!

Directions:

In a large pot mix together; squash, apple, onion, sugar, salt, cinnamon and pepper. Add broth, cover and heat to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer about 20 minutes (until the squash is tender) Use a blender or food processor to blend and smooth the soup. Then return to the pot, stir in the milk and yogurt and heat over low until warmed through. Server into bowls and garnish with chives.

Success

Happiness

together time + Writing | Nancy Stell

Quality time with our family and friends has become more and more limited. Between long commutes, children’s scheduled activities, online and social media, and busy work demands... Our time that we have to spend together is quickly filled up. Albert and Maureen Winata, founders of Ace2Putt, came up with their unique portable mini putt business: a smart solution for creative games to provide entertainment for all sorts of occasions. Whether you are looking for something different for your next corporate event, a unique fundraiser or an alternative activity at a retirement home, Ace2Putt will not only entertain, but also encourage the interaction of everyone involved. Here are some excellent opportunities that will incorporate this unique activity and connect people together again.

• • •

•

Business functions can be long and tedious, especially sitting and listening to all of the speakers. Rejuvenate and refresh the group with a break out session of mini putt. A mini golf tournament is a great way to engage the young and the young at heart. Enjoy the spirit of a friendly competition while fundraising for a great cause. Planning a bachelor or jack and jill party, anniversary celebration or your upcoming wedding? Add to the entertainment with this distinctive activity. Your guests will never stop talking about this fun idea! Keeping seniors physically and emotionally engaged is an important aspect of their overall wellbeing. Mini putt offers an excellent way for them to participate in an activity that not only gets them moving but will boost their overall mood.

Remember, you don’t need to be a pro to play! Even if you have never held a putter before, you will still be able to enjoy the game.

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Success

Happiness

Success or Happiness? + Writing | Sonya Stell

Many believe that happiness comes with “success”, in terms of a glittering career, big salary, beautiful house, expensive car and so on. Now although these external things certainly don’t guarantee happiness (and often bring the opposite), there’s definitely some truth that we get satisfaction from our successful accomplishments - like a job well done. But actually research is showing that the more important relationship between success and happiness may be the other way around. People who are happy tend to be more successful at whatever it is they’re doing - for example they have better health, are more productive and have better relationships with others. And as a result, happier people also bring huge benefits to their organizations too. Are you a happy person? Many of us try to be or at least like to think that we are. Certainly, not all of us are happy all of the time. Sometimes you just have to look at the glass half empty and embrace your negative, judgmental, scornful and envious thoughts. But it turns out, science is backing up the connection between happiness and success. Research in the field of neuroscience shows that happy, positive brains are more productive than negative ones. While research in the field of emotional intelligence reveals that optimism and friendships are greater predictors of career success than pure intellect and technical skills. That kind of research is definitely going to be tough to argue with, even for the most Negative Nelly. Some may believe that it is possible to be successful and miserable, I mean… come on, if happy people are more successful than unhappy people, does that mean that all miserable people are destined to fail? But the truth is, most people think “If I work harder, I’ll be more successful, and if I’m more successful, I’ll be happy.” That thought process actually breeds unhappiness. It is backwards of how the brain actually works; for example: every time you have a success at work, your brain changes the goal to something better than that success; or, every time you hit your sales target, the sales target changes to something higher. If happiness is on the opposite side of success, our brains will never get there because success keeps changing. That is part of the reason that happiness is so elusive for many people. But, if we put happiness first, our success rates will rise because our brains are able to work harder, faster and more intelligently when they are positive. If we hope success will lead to happiness, it decreases the chance of achieving both, but if you can revers the happiness formula, you can get your brain to work at a more optimal level. liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Success

Happiness

To Do...

or Not To Do...?

+ Writing | Nancy Stell

Multi Tasking: A Gift or A Curse? Is multi tasking getting us the results we all think; apparently not as a group of Stanford researchers discovered after putting 100 students through a series of three tests. It has long been assumed that it is impossible to process more than one string of information at a time. Regularly bombarding our brains with electronic information, switching from one job to another and focusing on more than one issue at a time, had suggested some people are just better at controlling what they think about and what they pay attention to. Perhaps gifted? So a group of researchers set out to learn what gives multitaskers their gift and to their revelation they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find it! The researchers first split their subjects into two groups - those who repeatedly do a lot of media multitasking and those who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. The first experiment they conducted was to flash configurations of two red rectangles alone and then surrounded by first two, then four, then six blue rectangles. Told to ignore the blue rectangles, the groups were to identify where the two red rectangles in the second frame were positioned differently than in the first frame. Surprisingly or not, the multitaskers had great difficulty ignoring the blue triangles and overall performed very poorly. 26

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Not certain if the multitaskers were just better at remembering things, the next test resulted in proving that wrong too. They were shown a sequence of alphabetical letters where they had to remember when a letter was shown more than once. The more letters they were shown, the worse the multitaskers did. On the other hand, the low multitaskers, people who prefer to complete one task at a time, did great! The final test required had the groups review images of both letters and numbers, instructed to first only pay attention to the letters and identify whether they were vowels or consonants, then they were told to focus on the numbers and identify whether they were even or odd. Again the multitaskers under preformed the group that prefers to complete one task at a time. It is not yet determined whether multitaskers are born with an inability to concentrate on one task at a time or if they are damaging their cognitive control by willingly taking on so much at once. Either way, researchers are convinced that multitaskers are not performing as well as they believe they are. So the next time you are trying to handle several jobs at once, perhaps you should consider taking a deep breathe, stepping back and prioritizing which needs to be done first. By doing less, you might actually accomplish more!

Home Life

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Relationships

Home Life

Relationships

Relieving stress with fish... + Writing | Sonya Stell

Are you having a difficult time shaking off the feeling of being overstressed lately? Do you work from home and often feel overwhelmed? Although it is not discussed very often, there are many health and emotional benefits that come from having a fish tank or aquarium. This is true, whether it is a fresh water or salt water tank. The sound of running water is one environmental element that many people find very soothing. This is why there are types of music that include the sounds of ocean waves, rain storms and running streams. These sounds often mesmerize and help to relax individuals suffering from anxiety and stress. There is nothing more soothing than going to the beach, right? Both watching the waves roll onto the shore, and listening to the sound of the flowing water surf onto the sand. Many of us intuitively know the benefits of flowing water; this is why some people find it relaxing to go fishing in local streams and lakes. Those people often tell us that fishing is more than just catching fish, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taking in the sounds of nature and the beauty of the lake around them. Owning and caring for an aquarium offers the chance to bring the calming effects of nature right into your home. Once an aquarium is established and decorated with rocks and plants, watching fish swim back and forth is proven to be stress and anxiety reducing. The gurgling sounds of the bubbles add to the therapeutic effect of looking at the tank. Also, the various colours of both the fish and the background inside of the tank can be very soothing. Studies have shown that watching an aquarium can reduce blood pressure and emotional agitation; this is why they are displayed in dentist offices, nursing homes, doctors offices and even restaurants. If there is any stress in owning an aquarium, it is connected to the initial set up. The chemistry of the water must be balanced and the temperature regulated. For the beginner, there are manuals and helpful handbooks that provide easy-to-follow instructions for the establishment and maintenance of a fish tank. Salt water aquariums are a little more complex, but there are companies that will come to the house and set up the tank and even maintain it, if that is what you wish. However, many people find maintenance of either type of aquarium very relaxing and simple to perform once understood. In our hectic daily lives, filled with work, family and paying bills, it is important for all of us to have ways of relieving the pressure all of this creates. An aquarium provides a way for the entire family to participate in its benefits. An aquarium does not need to be large to have this effect, there are now mini-aquariums that sit on your desktop and have the same benefits as a larger one. This investment into your emotional wellbeing is well worth the initial setup costs, as you will continue to benefit from the soothing and relaxing ability to watch your fish swim peacefully in their new home. 28

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Home Life

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Relationships

Home Life

Relationships

Burning Candles For You... Inhaling candle smoke has a positive effect on how the heart regulates its rhythm, a study at Lund University in Sweden has found. One theory is that the salts of sodium and potassium in the candle smoke affect the rhythm regulation. The study concluded that the variability in heart frequency increases when someone inhales candle smoke, even at relatively low indoor concentrations. This indicates that the heart and nervous system are well-functioning. A decrease in variability can signal that the body is exposed to something that affects long-term health. The researchers are not certain exactly why candles have this impact, but a qualified guess is that it is due to the salts of sodium and potassium in the smoke. When the candle flame does not flicker, the salt particles are generated. However, the more the flame flickers, the more soot is created. Several earlier studies have confirmed strong links between airborne particles and cardiovascular problems. “We haven’t found anything to indicate that calmly burning pure stearin candles is unhealthy. On the contrary”, says Christina Isaxon, the doctoral student in Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology behind the study. Inger Hagerman, consultant cardiologist at Karolinska Institute, who has collaborated with Christina Isaxon, notes that the heart needs to have a good balance between sodium and potassium salts in order to maintain a proper rhythm regulation. “What is particularly interesting is that we have seen a positive effect on the part of the autonomous nervous system that is connected to better heart health”, says Inger Hagerman. The candle smoke studies were performed in the aerosol chamber of the Department of Design Sciences. Here, test subjects were exposed to candle smoke particles under the supervision of medical experts. The purpose was to study how the particles affect us long before we become aware of any physical effects. Heart rate variability was one of the biological markers investigated. Christina Isaxon has also carried out measurements of particles in residential dwellings, and has shown that the majority of our activities indoors generate particles that strongly affect our indoor air. Indoor particle concentrations increase significantly when we cook, use the toaster or microwave, or burn candles. Since we spend more than 85% of our time indoors, of which 65% is at home, studies of indoor air are very relevant. Our indoor activities are major particle generators, and most of the time there are much higher concentrations of particles in indoor air than outdoors. “So far, it is not totally clear how these particles affect our bodies,” cautions Christina Isaxon. In her future research, she will investigate the properties of the candle particles that can explain the positive cardiovascular effects, and how other particle sources indoors can affect our health. 30

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Home Life

...and Your Home

Relationships

+ Writing | Sonya Stell

For those of us who lean towards indoorsy-ness, over those outdoorsy individuals, the autumn and winter seasons are the best times to cuddle up inside and enjoy your home during those long, cold months. Lighting candles throughout your home can add a certain ambiance that you just cannot obtain with anything else. The memorizing flickering flame, the colour waxes and candle holders, and the beautiful scents that fill the air. Here are some great tips to add some new candles to your home this year, or if you are just starting your candle collection. Keep It Sweet and Spicy in the Kitchen Your kitchen is where you gather with friends and family to enjoy nibbling away on your favourite snacks, cooking a festive meal, or just sharing a glass of wine after a long day. This is the perfect spot to light a candle that is based around some type of food. But, the choice is yours and the scents are endless… Begin by asking yourself, do you enjoy sweet or spicy scents? We all know the smell of sickly sweet vanilla, but you can venture out from that. Look for scents that include marshmallow, sugar donuts, pumpkin pie or various types of berries; these scents are often very pleasing with just a touch of sweet. If you are definitely favouring a spicier scent, look for candles that include notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, woodsy scents and other various spices. The best bet in finding your perfect kitchen candle is going through and smelling all of them to determine which is the best for you. Once you know what notes you love most, then you can order them online or quickly pick up a few from the store. Fresh, Laundry-Like and Manly? Almost everyone enjoys having a fresh smelling home, and we all know that fresh, clean scent that we crave. With new autumn candles arriving in various stores around the region, try looking for a scent like “Flannel” or “Cotton”. These ultra-fresh candles are perfect for bathrooms and spare bedrooms that you just want to smell clean. Some have a laundry-like scent, while others smell oddly similar to a man’s calone. Both the men and women in the house should enjoy these airy scents. Enjoy The Campfire During the spring and summer it is always very pleasant to sit outdoors around a burning campfire and take in the smells of nature. Well, even if it’s cold and windy, with two feet of snow on the ground, you can still bring the campfire indoors (not quite literally). Light a woodsy scented candle and instantly imagine yourself on the fireside of a bonfire. The outdoorsy aroma will be both warm and cozy over these next cold months, and remind you that spring is not all that far away. Lavender for the Bedroom Studies have shown that the scent of lavender actually helps one to sleep at night, lighting a lavender candle in your bedroom a few hours before bedtime will help keep the scent in your room for when you are falling asleep. Just be sure to blow out the candle before you tuck yourself in for the night. Another great alternative, are plug-in air fresheners with a lavender scent. These will keep your bedroom smelling like subtle lavenders all night long and ensure you have an excellent night sleep. liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Home Life

Relationships

Great Rooms Are GREAT! + Writing | Nancy Stell

The family unit can be greatly influenced by the design of your home and this is why the large open concept â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;great roomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is so popular today. It allows for families of all generations to come together and enjoy each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company. Whether you are celebrating the holidays or simply coming together in the evening after a busy day, the open concept great room and kitchen truly promotes togetherness. Today it is believed that approximately 85% of prospective new homebuyers are looking for a home design that incorporates the kitchen, dining and living spaces as one open concept area. By connecting these most-used spaces, it allows your family to be brought together rather than fragmented into separate rooms. Featured here is a beautiful example, designed by famed architect Christopher Simmonds and built in 2003 by a local builder, John Longstreet. The sunken great room has 10-foot ceilings and a floor to ceiling stone wood burning fireplace that anchors the dining/great room. The timeless design integrates Birch hardwood flooring with gorgeous Cherry beams running along the ceiling that are complete with track lighting, creating the foundation for unlimited decorating possibilities. Huge picture windows provide spectacular views of the amazing outdoors and allowing the natural light to stream in. Pulling the furniture off the walls permits you to create groupings that still allow for ease of traffic flow. Defined by an area rug and furniture pieces that are scaled and balance to the size of the room. continued on page 34...

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continued from page 32... Adding layers of interest like this piano niche, the perfect spot for indoor entertaining as our weather turns colder and we approach the holiday season. It’s always a good idea in rooms of this size, to have at least one constant thread running throughout the entire space, like the black accents that are utilized in this home. Creating a cohesive look is another important element of a successful great room design. The dining area, just slightly segregate off from the great room by the floor to ceiling fireplace, continues with the same beautiful Birch hardwood and Cherry Beamed ceiling. Today more and more people love to entertain in a comfortable casual manor. Well defined “activity zones” including informal dinning, media entertainment for everyone to relax and enjoy, a study and a computer workspace, all are important elements of creating the picture-perfect great room for your families needs. Carve out a quiet moment with a reading nook by a window or next to a bookshelf. An extra large coffee table can provide a modern take on the traditional game table. Add a splash of fun with textured throw pillows or metallic side tables, even spike the interest level in a neutral room with a splatter of pattern. Your options are limitless! If this looks like the perfect space for your family, this incredible home is listed for sale through Jacqueline Guagliardi of Royal LePage RCR Realty. You can get more information at: www.jacquelineguagliardi.com. 34

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Home Life

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Relationships

Home Life

Relationships

The Modern Day Kitchen... + Writing | Nancy Stell

…Is a work of art within your home and one of the most popular renovations to day. It not only provides your family with all the state of the art features, but it also adds a huge resale value should you decide to sell your home. The centre island is one of the most popular trends these days as it allows for both a large work area plus room for friends and family to sit and chat while you prepare the meal; a gathering place. Built in wine racks and/or refrigeration units’ stocked and ready for entertaining, soft closing draws to organize all your cooking utensils, and walk in pantry’s kept chock-full, make all your entertaining easier. Features like chrome facets and decorative cabinet hardware, pot lighting and gorgeous granite countertops are gracing our hub-of-the-home - our kitchens, these days! Here are a few no no’s when planning your kitchen renovation this year: •Appliances…. Don’t go crazy with top brand name appliance just to keep up with the Jones’s. Assess the needs of your own family and decide accordingly. It can save you a bundle that you can use for something else. •Find yourself a designer who understands how to light a kitchen and incorporate a good design right from the onset of construction. Don’t cheep out on lighting either; it’s well worth the investment to get it right! •The floor is the foundation of your design, so once again don’t cheap out on it. It’s also expensive to rip out and replace because it is the wrong colour or looking dated before too long. •Lastly do not underestimate the value of quality cabinetry. It will make all the difference in your final product 36

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Home Life

Relationships

I just bought

a house, now what? + Writing | Sweatman Law Firm

Once you have a firm deal, meaning your Agreement of Purchase and Sale has been accepted and the conditions have been fulfilled or waived, the real fun begins. Your real estate lawyer will search records and title, to ensure you are receiving a good title, check the mortgage documents, hold closing funds in trust and arrange for you to receive the keys to your new home. Mortgage Your mortgage lender might require you to get a property appraisal, land survey or both. There are two general types of mortgages: conventional and high-ratio. A conventional mortgage will require you to pay a down payment of at least 20% of the purchase price. If you are unable to put at least 20% down, you will likely need a high-ratio mortgage. If you go this route, you will also likely need mortgage loan insurance from the Canada Housing and Mortgage Corporation. This insurance will protect the lender should you be unable to pay your mortgage. Land Transfer Tax and Other Financial Costs You must ensure that you have enough cash on hand to cover costs such as the provincial Land Transfer tax and any applicable municipal Land Transfer Tax (e.g., if you purchase property in Toronto) on closing. Some new homebuyers are eligible for a refund of the land transfer tax of up to $2,000 from the province and $3,500 from the City of Toronto. Other costs you will need to pay include lawyersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fees, title insurance, document registration fees and any property taxes or utility bills pre-paid by the sellers. Title Insurance Title insurance covers losses, related to the title of your property (e.g., unknown title defects, existing liens against the propertyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s title, encroachment issues, title fraud, errors

in surveys and public records). The premium covers you for the duration of your property ownership. Title insurance saves you money by allowing you to close your purchase without obtaining a legal opinion as to title which can be costly. The amount of insurance is based on a few factors, including the value of your home. Closing Day On closing day, your lender will provide the mortgage money to your lawyer. You will provide your lawyer with your down payment and the other closing costs. Your lawyer will then deliver the funds to the seller in return for transfer of title to you. Once this is done, you get the keys to your new home! Prior to Moving In It is a good idea to change all of the locks and alarm codes to the house, as you do not know who has keys or knows the code. You should make arrangements for home property insurance. Accounts with utilities should be changed to be in your name, as well as any other service you would like. You should also ensure fire detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are operational, and register a change of address at the post office to ensure your mail is correctly delivered. Moving In If you plan to hire movers, check their reputation, references and the Better Business Bureau. Ensure your personal possessions are insured during the move and keep an inventory list to ensure all your items safely arrive at your new home. Keeping a master list of tasks and items and labeling boxes clearly will make your move a lot simpler. Have cleaning supplies ready in case your new home is not in spotless condition. Keep track of your valuables. This is provided for information purposes and cannot be relied upon for legal decisionmaking.

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fantasticfinds Home Life

Relationships

...we have found something for your home, your wardrobe, and your garage! Check out these allnew finds and start planning your shopping trip! Cultured and original. France Modeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s MaryJane features stylized, glossy red leather, silver buckle embellishment and a leather interior. This mature French twist on the classic Mary Jane looks equally lovely in a jazz bar or in line at the market. Available at Mi Giovi Shoe Boutique: 51 Main Street South, Georgetown.

Looking to remodel your kitchen? Tired of out-of-date cabinetry and countertops? Have Caledon Tile Bath & Kitchen Centre create an ultra-modern, beautiful new kitchen for you! Stop in to their showroom at 12 Fisherman Drive, Brampton to check out all of their samples and start building your dream kitchen today.

The next generation Chevrolet Volt. The electric evolution is here. The 2016 Volt truly sets itself apart from traditional alternative fuel vehicles with its natural flowing exterior design; now with seating for five and available heated steering wheel and rear seats, you and your passengers will always be comfortable! Unlike traiditonal hybrids, Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best-selling plug-in lets you drive up to 80km in EV mode! Now available at your local Georgetown Chevrolet Buick GMC: 33 Mountainview Road North, Georgetown. 38

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removing allergens

Green

Clean Living

from yo + Writing | Sonya Stell

Sneeze much lately? Is your throat scratchy? Eyes watering, too? You’re not alone: Allergies affect more than 20 percent of the population. Medications can help relieve allergy symptoms, but removing irritants from your home is a much more effective way to stop your stuffy nose, headache, itchy eyes, and shortness of breath, according to the Allergy and Asthma Network/Mothers of Asthmatics (AANMA). Find out what you are allergic to first: Visiting an allergist will help you focus your preventative measures. The most common offenders are dust mites, mold, pollens, and pet dander. “There’s no point in making changes at home if you don’t address your particular allergies,” says Laurie Ross, editor of Allergy and Asthma Today. “Who knows, you might be allergic to cats, and here you are keeping your windows closed.” First start with the bedroom: Once you’ve established what causes your allergies, work your way around the house eliminating those specific allergens, starting with your bedroom. “If dust is one of your problems, cover your mattress and pillows with zip-on dust mite covers. You spend so much of your day in bed—if you can just get a good night’s sleep, you’ll be off to a great start,” says Ross. Get rid of wall-to-wall carpet and padding: If at all possible, replace them with hardwood or other impervious flooring, especially in the bedroom. “Just about every allergen accumulates in carpet—dust, pollen, pet dander. Walking across carpet re-releases all of that into the air,” says Ross. Avoid tracking in trouble: Lay down two doormats at each entryway— one outside, one inside—to keep outdoor 40

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irritants from finding their way inside. Or, have your family and guests remove their shoes when they enter, so they don’t spread allergens around. Upgrade your vacuum cleaner: If it doesn’t have a HEPA filter, switch to one that does. They’re specially made to trap particles as tiny as 0.3 microns—which means they’ll be able to capture most allergens. Change those air filters: Don’t forget to clean or replace the filters in your heating and cooling system. Just follow the manufacturers’ instructions on timing and frequency. Ditch the drapes: Blinds or shades trap fewer allergens than fabric window treatments, but if you insist on curtains, opt for the machine-washable kind, which are easier to keep dust-free. Remove dust by vacuuming once a week with a brush attachment, and wash them frequently during months when you keep the windows open. Minimize mold: There are more than 100,000 species of mold on the planet, and one of their favourite places to live is your bathroom. Clean it regularly, making sure to dry off surfaces that collect standing water, and make sure it’s well ventilated. Also replace broken tiles and recall sinks and tubs every few years to discourage mold growth behind walls. Tackle overlooked corners: “Most people forget to look under the kitchen sink,” says Ross. It’s a prime spot for mold growth when pipes drip. Pull everything out of the cabinet and inspect the interior carefully for signs of leaks. Also look for mouse droppings and cockroach webs, since rodents and bugs can trigger allergies, too. Get leaks fixed, seal holes, clean the area, and keep it tidy and dry to eliminate irritant build-up.

our home

Green

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Clean Living

Beauty

Self Care

liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

avoiding the

knife

Beauty

Self Care

A Non-Surgical Approach To Facial Rejuvenation: “Putting Your Best Face Forward” + Writing | Carla Furfaro of Calm Waters Day Spa & Laser Clinic

With a myriad of treatments and products to choose from and a desire to look our best and healthiest at any age we often don’t know where to begin. The best place to start is at home. What can we do for ourselves to improve the skins tone and texture and to fight free radical damage, keeping us looking as young as we feel? Exercise: a moderate regular fitness regime of as little as 30 minutes per day will reap wonderful rewards to the skin by providing oxygenation and exchange of toxins for all our cells and organs the largest one being the skin. Healthy Diet: a diet low in sugar and void of transfats, rich in fruits, veggies, grain and protein will provide the cells with the required vitamins and mineral to improve cellular function. Daily Skin Care Regime: cleanse and tone, topical anti-oxidants vitamin C and E (my favorite SkinCeuticals C, E and Ferulic) provide the skin with protection against free radical damage which attacks healthy cells causing premature aging. Daily sun protection is a must and a nourishing moisturizer to replenish lost moisture. What can we do when what we want is more than what we can achieve at home and surgery is not an option? Non-Surgical Face Lift Using Micro-current: Originally a medical treatment developed more than 30 years ago to stimulate lax muscles of the face as a result of stroke or Bell’s palsy Micro-current therapy uses micro-currents which work synergistically with our bodies own electrical currents. The strategic placement and manipulation of the probes gently persuade the muscles to return to their original state resulting in a lifted and firmer muscle tone, lifting the brow and general contouring the face, even over-contracted muscles are relaxed reducing lines of expression. The skin is radiant due to the stimulation of natural collagen production through enhanced tissue repair; the lymphatic system is also stimulated reducing puffiness especially around the eye area. This treatment is non-invasive, safe, and painless with no down time or side effects except a refreshed younger looking skin. Skin Tightening & Contouring with Radio-frequency Technology

This treatment represents the newest method of selective dermal heating. Facial contouring and skin tightening are achieved through

different levels of dermal heating. The unipolar hand piece targets the deeper dermal layers to remodel and contour by spot treating troublesome areas such as double chin, jowls and marionette lines. The bipolar hand piece targets the upper dermal layer stimulating collagen production resulting in overall improved skin surface tone and texture. RFT treatments are an effective, easy, comfortable, affordable treatment to rejuvenate, tighten and remodel the facial contour. Photo rejuvenation Sometimes referred to as Photo facial or IPL, is a procedure where scientifically adapted light is applied into the skin to improve and often eliminate disorders such as, hyper pigmentation, brown age spots, small dilated capillaries, sun damage, lines and wrinkles, large pores as well as redness and rosaceous conditions, leaving the skin with a rejuvenated radiant glow. Collagen production is increased leaving the skin with greatly improved tone and texture. Microdermabrasion This method uses natural mineral crystals to buff off dead cells on the surface of the skin, revealing new healthy skin underneath. Your Esthetician will use a hand-held device that propels medical grade micro-crystals onto your skin while simultaneously suctioning off the dead cells and crystals to reveal newer cells. The treatment itself is virtually painless but you may experience slight sensitivity or the feeling of mild sunburn afterward. The procedure is done slowly and progressively, usually taking 30-40 minutes. A visible difference is experienced after just one treatment but to achieve optimum results, 3-6 treatments are required. Chemical peels Chemical peels also exfoliate (remove dead skin cells) to reveal a more youthful appearance. In this treatment, a chemical peel is applied to your skin that dissolve the glue like substance that hold the dead cells together, revealing a fresher newer cell. Depending on your individual exfoliating needs, your Esthetician will choose from glycolic, lactic, mandelic, or salicylic acid. During treatment, most people feel a slight burning sensation for less than 10 minutes. After treatment, you will notice immediate improvements. Both Microdermabrasion and Chemical Peels will reduce the appearance of sun damage, fin lines, wrinkles and improve skin clarity, increase collagen production and micro-circulation as well as improve absorption of treatment products. Both treatments will give noticeable improvement with one treatment but are most effective in a series of six treatments.

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scrubbingwithsugar

Beauty

Self Care

+ Writing | Sonya Stell

Fact: Sugar is not good for your intestines! Fact: Sugar can be very good for your skin! Sugar scrubs are a simple beauty recipe with countless variations, and they can be incredibly moisturizing and exfoliating to the skin. There are many, many expensive sugar scrubs that are seen on the market in department stores and within spas, but you can create your very own for pennies! If you are new to making your own beauty products (or even if you are a veteran natural beauty alchemist), this recipe is simple to make and amazing to use. So don’t be nervous and give it a try, your skin will thank you! This sugar scrub can be used on the face, body, and (especially) feet, for silky skin. You can add endless ingredients for your DESIRED outcome, and they take just under ten minutes to make. Convinced yet? Ingredients: 1/2 cup Sugar (white or brown sugar, preferably organic) 1/2 cup Oil (olive oil and coconut oil work the best) Essential Oils of your preference (optional) Directions: Mix all ingredients and store in an air tight jar. Use 1 tablespoon as needed in the shower. Scrub skin with the mixture and rinse well. It will leave your skin feeling like silk. Sound simple? It is! Here are some fun variations to try: Pumpkin Pie Sugar Scrub: 1 cup Brown Sugar 1/2 cup Coconut Oil 1/2 tsp Vitamin E Oil 1/2 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spices (or just 1/2 tsp Cinnamon) Vanilla Brown Sugar Scrub: 1 cup Brown Sugar 1/2 cup Almond Oil 1/2 tsp Vitamin E Oil 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Lemon Hand Scrub: Perfect for after washing dishes! 1 cup White Sugar 1/2 cup Olive Oil 1/2 tsp Vitamin E Oil 15-20 drops of Lemon or Orange Essential Oil Vanilla Lavender Relaxing Facial Scrub: 1 cup White Sugar 1/2 cup Almond Oil 1/2 tsp Vitamin E Oil 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract 15 drops of Lavender Essential Oil 44

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The “Lemon Hand Scrub” and “Vanilla Lavender Relaxing Facial Scrub” will last on the counter for up to two months, and they smell good enough to eat… but don’t, as sugar is good for your skin and bad for your intestines!

Beauty

Self Care

Beauty

Self Care

Fashion Forward + Writing | Sonya Stell

Car Wash Skirts Think of it as the more polished sister to last season’s major fringe trend. Team with a sharp blouse or top to create a refined look. Puffer Coats They’re anything but your typical cold-weather topper. This season bold colours, interesting cuts, and cool add-ons update your winter must-have.

Faux Fur Stoles Lend a touch of ladylike goodness to your outfit with the help of a faux-fur stole. Shrug it over your shoulder to make the piece feel more modern. Neons The electric shades that hit their peak in the ‘80s are returning in a much more sophisticated way, now paired with neutral colors such as grey, navy, or camel. liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

important

why routine dental care is

Beauty

Self Care

+ Writing | Nancy Stell

No matter how old you are, routine dental care is an important aspect of your overall health and wellbeing. Good oral hygiene will not only keep your smile healthy, but also prevent most dental disease… or at the very least, identify them early so your treatment will be more effective and less expensive. Bacteria that live in your mouth in the form of plaque can cause cavities and gingivitis, which can lead to gum disease. Plaque can accumulate on your teeth, especially where your toothbrush can’t reach, so brushing twice a day and flossing once, will help you reduce the plaque build up. However, visiting your dentist twice a year for a thorough cleaning and a check up will better ensure that your teeth and mouth continue to stay healthy. Seeing you regularly, allows your dentist to catch oral problems early when most problems are still reversible or cavities when they are small and more easily treated. Choosing the right dentist is also very important. Make sure they are easy to get to from your home or office, and that they offer the hours you need for your appointments. It’s also important that you are comfortable with the relationship you are building. Working together with the dentist, you will determine the best course of treatment for you and your family. A routine check up will include an examination of your mouth, x-rays (depending on your dental history; this might be every two years or as often as every six months.) and a thorough cleaning by the hygienist. When should you schedule your child’s first visit? The Canadian Dental Association recommends that a dentist should see

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your infant within 6 months of their first tooth appearing OR by the age of 1. Having your child visit the dentist before there are any problems allows your child to become familiar with the process plus the dentist will be able to catch small problems early. Many people don’t realize that the dental check up actually involves more than just looking for cavities. A trained dentist will also be looking for any damaged, missing or decaying teeth. They will also look at the condition of your gums for signs of inflammation or gum disease, as well as check on how previous dental work such as root canals, fillings and crowns are holding up. Looking for any early signs of mouth or throat cancer, such as white lesions or blocked salivary glands, or other suspicious growths or cysts, is all part of the check up. Working together with your dentist, it is important that you tell them about your overall health including any new medical conditions you’ve been diagnosed with since your last visit. Also let your dentist know if you are experiencing any changes in your teeth such as increased sensitivity to heat, cold or sweets, bleeding more when flossing or loose or rough edges on your teeth. If you are nervous about visiting your dentist, rest assured that modern day dentistry has made it more comfortable for patients and talking to your dentist may reassure you and help you feel more relaxed. With a host of new products to help reduce the pain, your dentist is committed to helping you through the process while reducing your stress and anxiety.

Pet Health

Wellness

Bonding with your pet

Pet Health

Wellness

+ Writing | Sonya Stell

You’ve probably heard all about the special bond that exists between a pet and its owner, but if you’re new to pet ownership, you may be struggling to form that bond. Before you throw up your hands and assume that you aren’t cut out for owning a pet, try these seven ways to build trust, promote loyalty and, ultimately, connect at the heart with your pet. Set aside time to hang out If you want to bond with your pet, you have to actually spend time with it. Most pets enjoy routine, so set aside a specific time each day to completely focus on your furry friend. What you do during your time together is up to you, but if you keep your pet time sacred, you’ll be bonded before you know it. Pet your pet Pets are called “pets” because petting is part of the gig. As you pet your animal, the animal becomes accustomed to your touch and begins to trust you. As trust grows, your feelings ARE reciprocate and bonding begins. Make time for grooming Have you ever watched a mama animal with her babies? A lot of her time is spent licking and grooming her little ones. No one’s asking you to lick your pet, but take a cue from the animal kingdom and spend some time brushing and cleaning Fido or Fluffy. This type of intimate interaction feels natural to your pet and helps you grow closer. Make a play date Every pet has a distinct personality, and playing with your pet allows you to see its full range. The more you can appreciate your pet’s personality, the more connected you’ll feel to it. Eats and treats They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach... the same rule applies for animals. Your pet’s dependence on you for food provides the perfect opportunity for bonding. As your pet begins to trust you as a food source, a ritual around meals develops. Allowing yourself to enjoy this process can really bring you closer to your pet. Take a hike While not every type of pet is suited for an actual hike, most pets benefit from and appreciate regular exercise. Like many other forms of bonding, exercising with your pet helps you develop a knowledge and understanding of one another that enables you to sync expectations and routines. Set boundaries A happy pet home is a pet home with boundaries. When you set rules and expectations for your pets, they become comfortable with you in the leadership role, and you become comfortable as the leader. Boundaries may be difficult to set at first, but when you know your pet will respond to your commands, you’ll feel confident in your petowner relationship. continued on page 48... liveinbalance | The Aspiration Edition

Pet Health

Wellness

continued from page 47... Scientists have discovered that cats have developed an elaborate communication system with hundreds of vocalizations to tell humans what they want or need. Developing an understanding of how your cat is communicating with you and how cats interpret human communication can help you cultivate a more nuanced relationship with your feline companion. Understand how and why cats communicate. Vocalizing is generally not your cat’s preferred mode of communication. A cat’s “first language” consists of a complex system of scent, facial expression, complex body language and touch. Cats soon realize that we don’t understand the non-verbal signals they send to each other, so they vocalize in an attempt to communicate in our language. By observing which sounds elicit which actions from us, a cat is always learning how to make requests or demands.Observe meowing circumstances. If you watch what your cat is doing when he or she meows, you may be able to distinguish which meows are associated with which requests (or protests). While specific meows can vary from cat to cat, there are certain types of meows that are usually associated with specific cat emotions, such as purring or hissing. • • • • • •

The short meow is used as a standard greeting and general acknowledgement. Multiple meows indicate excited greetings. You may notice a more enthusiastic greeting with increased meowing if you have been gone for a longer period of time than usual. A mid-pitched meow may indicate a plea for something like food or water. A longer, drawn-out “mrrroooow” is a more persistent demand for a need or want. A low-pitched “MRRRooooowww” indicates a complaint, displeasure, or preparation to fight. A loud, lower than mid-pitch “Meow” often signals more urgent begging for something such as food.

Identify common non-meowing cat communication. While meowing is the sound that we most often associate with cat vocalization, cats make other common sounds as well. • •

Purring, a throaty vibrating sound, invites close contact or attention. While cats can purr for a variety of reasons, purring is most commonly associated with easy contentment. Hissing is a cat’s clearest sign of aggression or self-defense. It indicates that your cat is very unhappy, feels threatened or frightened, or is fighting or preparing to fight.

Notice other specialized vocalizations. While other types of vocalizations may be more rare than meowing, hissing, and purring, understanding them can help you interpret your cat’s communications more fully. • • • • 48

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A high-pitch RRRROWW! often indicates anger, pain, or feeling fearful. A chattering sound can be a sign of excitement, anxiety, or frustration. A chirrup, a cross between a meow and a purr with rising inflection, is a friendly greeting sound, often used by a mother cat to call to her kittens A loud yelping or “reeeowwwing” sound may indicate sudden pain, as when you accidentally step on your cat’s tail.

Fitness

Recreation

Success Is Earned (Not Des er ved)

+ Writing | Dr. Rick Kattouf II + Submission | 9Round (Orangeville)

Success… it is something we all want, but not something everyone achieves. We all enter the world of fitness, running, etc. for various reasons. We all set goals for ourselves whether it is the body composition change (losing body fat and losing weight), overall fitness improvements, performance goals, etc. Let’s use the New Year as a perfect example. When the New Year rolls around, individuals are ready to go; this is their year. They are ready to make the necessary changes and they come out of the gates swinging; full-focus ahead. But, what happens fairly quickly? They soon find themselves in the exact same patterns and lifestyle as before. What happened? Why did their goals fall by the wayside? Typically this occurs from the 2 E’s…Effort (or lack thereof) and Excuses. Let’s examine the 2 E’s and see how we can turn this around and create success. I do not have time! As we all have seen (and heard), this is one of the most commonly used excuses for not working out. If our goals are truly important to us, we will find the time and make the time. Much of this is about how we choose to use our time. Is it not interesting that the individuals using the ”I do not have time” excuse are the ones that are not successful in reaching their fitness and body composition goals? And then, on the flipside, those that are successful in reaching their fitness and body composition goals have never used the “I do not have time” excuse; Think about that. And keep in mind, ‘I can’t’ is not an option. You have 2 choices, ‘I choose to’ or ‘I choose not to.’ Many times, there is a misconception in terms of how much time one must spend working out in order to get results. All too often, individuals feel that if they cannot work out for one hour, it is not worth it; hence, ‘they do not have the time.’ Let’s first change that mindset.” For example, a 30-minute focused-workout is a great workout. If you have walked on to the ”I do not have time” excuse-treadmill, today is the

day you jump off that excuse-treadmill. You do have time; choose to use your time wisely and bring a ”I’ll do whatever it takes” mentality to the table and this will help to keep you stay on task with your workouts. 5 of 7-that’s good enough, right? I deserve it, right? Many individuals strive to change their body composition. They are looking to get healthier, lighter and leaner. During their workweek, Monday through Friday, they are quite focused on their nutrition and are doing quite well; so well, that they give themselves a nice pat on the back. Their mindset tells them that since they have eaten well five days during the week, they can be ”more lax” with their nutrition on the weekend (some not-so-good-for-you foods, a few adult beverages, etc.). They feel that they deserve it. And then, as the weeks and months progress, they quickly fine that their body composition is not changing and they wonder why. They are working out regularly and eating well five of seven days each week, what’s going on? This is where tough love and reality have to come to the forefront. Sure, eating well during the week is great. But, not maintaining this the entire week is like washing your feet with your socks on; you are just not going to get the results. A partial focus on nutrition like this is only going to bring about partial results. You work out hard and I am sure you want a bigger return on your investment of time. So, in order to do so, let’s make nutrition a full-time focus. A bigger and more focused effort on your weekend nutrition will bring about even more significant results I’ve tried everything and nothing works! All too often, this becomes another commonly used excuse when an individual does not lose the body fat they desire. The verbiage becomes, ”I’ve tried everything and nothing works!” continued on page 50...

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continued from page 49... Okay, more tough love. Really? You’ve tried everything? This is definitely a limiting belief that will cause individuals not to achieve their goals. First off, the reality is that this is simply a belief and there is absolutely zero truth in this statement. Eating right combined with the proper heart rate training combined with the proper strength training combined with the proper sleep works 100% of the time, 100% of the time (if the effort is a full-time effort of course and a no excuse mentality is brought to the party). We have to change the belief in order to change the result. If you have fallen into this limiting belief, no worries; today is a new day, let’s make a change. It is time for a complete overhaul of your beliefs regarding workouts and nutrition. First off, understand that this is simply a limiting belief that can be changed. And then, start the overhaul. If you are not strength training, add that in the mix so that you can build lean muscle and increase your metabolism. As mentioned above, if you are not full-focus on your nutrition, let’s make that overhaul as well. Let’s get the mind right, because when the mind is right, the body will follow. Part-time workouts warrant sub-par results It is always exciting to watch individuals set such lofty goals for themselves. It is goals like this that drive us. But, all too often, the effort, commitment and dedication to training does not commensurate with the goals that have been set. We cannot expect to put in half-effort and get full-results. It is common to hear statement such as, ”I’m doing the work, but I’m just not getting the results.” Okay, it’s time for more tough love… are you really doing the work? Is it quality work and highly productive? Or, are you confusing, ”going through the motions”, as work? There is a difference between a workout and an engaged-workout. Just working out may be more like going through the motions. Where an engaged-workout is a very focused and purposeful workout. Those individuals that are full-focused regarding their goals and workouts are spot-on each day and each week with their training. On the flipside, when this type of focus is not present, we tend to go through the motions, miss workouts and use excuses such as, ” I just did not have time.” If you have fallen into this trap, no worries, it can be changed. The first step is to assess the goals we have set and the time commitment we have set aside to achieve these goals. For example, having a goal to run a 2:45 Marathon is great; but, without the right focus, dedication, determination and commitment to succeed, the goal will not become a reality. Complaining about not getting the results when the commitment and dedication is not present is not an option. We have to be honest with ourselves and either readjust our goals or bring a bigger commitment level to the table. Success is not deserved; rather, it is earned. Those that continue to find success in fitness, body composition, sport, etc., put forth the full-focused effort and never use excuses. Champions (a champion is simply you achieving your goals) are not made giving a part-time effort and making excuses. Flying in the no-excuse zone makes champions and giving a full-time and full-focused effort that will bring about big time results! 50

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Fitness

Take our Fitness Tour

Recreation

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