“The purpose of our lives is to be happy.” The Dalai Lama – Buddhist monk and spiritual leader of the Tibetan people – points out the simple and universal truth that all of us naturally gravitate towards happiness. We’re on a constant search for that joie de vivre – or “joy of living” – in our day-to-day, whether it be a joy found in love, companionship, work, or hobby. Then, there are countless motivational or “self-help” books published on the topic of positive thinking and finding happiness within. But, what about those cloudy days when we don’t feel very joyful? What’s happening in our mind and body that’s affecting our mood? Serotonin, the “happy…
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“ACHOO!”: Naturopathic Treatments for the Common Cold and Flu
Our family’s winter immune-boosting regimen actually begins in August, long before the days grow shorter and the weather turns damp and cold. Prevention truly IS the best medicine! Even if you haven’t started yet, implementing a few natural treatment strategies will help to shorten the duration of your cold or flu, as well as prevent any recurrences of a nasty winter bug. Eat warming and nourishing foods As Hippocrates wisely said: Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food. Certain foods can provide important infection-fighting nutrients and soothe many of the common symptoms of a cold/flu. A good rule is to “eat for the weather” and focus on…
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Healthy Habits to Prevent the Cold or Flu
It’s only September and I can see that people are already sneezing, coughing and feeling extra “blah”! With the sudden change of season into cool and rainy days (come back, summer!) and the rush back to regular work and/or school schedules, it’s no wonder that we fall ill. Sometimes we forget the everyday things that can be done to avoid catching the cold or flu. As the saying goes: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”! Read on for the simple habits that can help you, and your family, stay healthy and bug-free this winter. First things first…Is it the Cold or Flu? It can be difficult…
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The Top 5 Supplements You Need for Optimal Health
Do I need to take a supplement? What does it treat? How do I know if the supplement working as it should? When do I take it? Which brand and form are best? Even thinking about starting a supplement can be an overwhelming process! There are a ton on the market and it’s tough to know which one is best for your specific health concerns. Here I’ll go through the “Top 5” supplements that I believe most individuals (from early to advanced age) would benefit from adding to their daily regimen. *Naturopathic Note* Always speak to a trained health care professional (like your Naturopathic Doctor) before starting any supplement. “Natural” doesn’t…
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The Importance of Preconception Health
Choosing to start a family can be simultaneously the most exciting and the most terrifying decision a person can make. It’s accepting that your life will change in a monumental way. It’s accepting that your BODY will change in a monumental way (more for the women, though there’s also talk of the “dad bod”). And it’s accepting that your home will be filled with more love and joy than you know what to do with. In preparation of your soon-to-be little one, it’s important to focus on your preconception health. It can take up to three months (!) to create the best possible egg and sperm for conception. Remember that…
