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by author Hélène Meurer
by Dean Ornish, MD
Ballantine Books, 2008, 386 pages, $32.00
isbn 978-0-345-49630-0
Dean Ornish is a high-profile name where alternative medicine is concerned. A 30-year veteran of North America’s controversial diet wars, Ornish is consistently lauded by the scientific community for his work in reversing heart disease and other illnesses through dietary and lifestyle changes. Deepak Chopra calls him “a pioneer in the medicine of the future.” In Ornish’s most recent book, this medicine is derived from natural food sources and our emotional reserves.
Simply put, The Spectrum refers to a triad of self-managed approaches (nutrition, stress management, and exercise) that works by altering our individual genetic reactions to illness triggers. Sample guidelines are included for those specifically targeting cholesterol, weight, blood pressure, diabetes, prostate and breast cancers, and heart disease.
Ornish recognizes that we are each genetically unique, with highly individualized health needs and goals. He encourages a personalized, freedom-of-choice plan centred on positive reinforcement, love, joy of living, and self-empowerment. If this begins to sound brain-centred rather than body-centred, think again–it is both. Enter Anne Ornish, wife of Dr. Dean, a highly qualified stress-management trainer who provides significant emotional guidance on the accompanying DVD enclosed with the book.
Together with Ornish’s comprehensive text, this digital component gives highly effective guidance for conscious eating and meditation, and makes for a winning combination.
Hélène Meurer is a writer and reviewer in Victoria, BC, who easily loses herself in the books she reviews and sometimes forgets to come up for air.
Source: alive #313, November 2008
Stress-Busting Herbs
Strengthen your adrenal glands. It's the key to dealing with whatever life throws your way. The person who claims not to be affected by stress is either dead, living an illusion, or lying.
Strengthen your adrenal glands. It's the key to dealing with whatever life throws your way. The person who claims not to be affected by stress is either dead, living an illusion, or lying.
Working Well
We spend most of our lives at work. We make friends, network with colleagues and plan our retirement years based on our active lives in the workplace.
We spend most of our lives at work. We make friends, network with colleagues and plan our retirement years based on our active lives in the workplace.
An Exercise in Activity
"Eating alone is not enough for health. There must be exercise . . . If there is any deficiency in food or exercise, the body will fall sick." Hippocrates--500 BC We do it everyday in trains, planes and automobiles..
"Eating alone is not enough for health. There must be exercise . . . If there is any deficiency in food or exercise, the body will fall sick." Hippocrates--500 BC We do it everyday in trains, planes and automobiles..
Exercise
While picking up your child from a soccer practice at the local park you might notice a group of adults of varying ages skipping in the parking lot.
While picking up your child from a soccer practice at the local park you might notice a group of adults of varying ages skipping in the parking lot.
Surviving Stress
Have you ever pushed yourself for so long that you feel as though your resources are depleted and there is little or nothing left to draw on? When stress becomes as much a part of everyday life as breathing and eat.
Have you ever pushed yourself for so long that you feel as though your resources are depleted and there is little or nothing left to draw on? When stress becomes as much a part of everyday life as breathing and eat.
Be Your Own Personal Trainer
The first step in training is determining which of the three stages of intensity meets your goals and commitment level. These stages are activity, exercise or athleticism.
The first step in training is determining which of the three stages of intensity meets your goals and commitment level. These stages are activity, exercise or athleticism.
Move it or Lose it
As baby-boomers approach retirement, the medical system in Canada is expecting a large increase in usage. Unless our aging population rediscovers physical activity, this could be an accurate prediction.
As baby-boomers approach retirement, the medical system in Canada is expecting a large increase in usage. Unless our aging population rediscovers physical activity, this could be an accurate prediction.
Put the Ho Ho Ho Back into Your Holidays
Depression is sometimes a component of the Christmas season for a variety of reasons. Typical responses to the emotional overload of the holiday rush are overeating, overdrinking and generally overdoing.
Depression is sometimes a component of the Christmas season for a variety of reasons. Typical responses to the emotional overload of the holiday rush are overeating, overdrinking and generally overdoing.
Timely Tips for Seasonal Stress
Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year. The winter holiday season is an intense time. Children become over excited from anticipation and then from sugary seasonal treats.
Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year. The winter holiday season is an intense time. Children become over excited from anticipation and then from sugary seasonal treats.
Snowboarding
Winter is definitely here. While some people moan and groan about the winter months and lack of opportunity for exercise, others find the snowy months feed their needs in many ways.
Winter is definitely here. While some people moan and groan about the winter months and lack of opportunity for exercise, others find the snowy months feed their needs in many ways.
The Joy of Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is often overlooked among more glamorous and high-profile snow sports, like skiing and snowboardin.
Snowshoeing is often overlooked among more glamorous and high-profile snow sports, like skiing and snowboardin.
Skate Your Way To Better Health
As with any other sport, warming up for skating is crucial to preventing injuries. Most of the power comes from your thighs and buttocks, so it's essential to make sure they're stretched and ready to go.
As with any other sport, warming up for skating is crucial to preventing injuries. Most of the power comes from your thighs and buttocks, so it's essential to make sure they're stretched and ready to go.
Exercise for Speedy Recovery
If patients do not participate in some form of exercise, their ability to function suffer.
If patients do not participate in some form of exercise, their ability to function suffer.
Cancer-Fighting Recipes
When I came to Canada in 1959 I was practically a greenhorn concerning vegetarianism. Then I married Siegfried! One of the wedding gifts I received from him was a vegetarian cookbook. I struggled with the concept.
When I came to Canada in 1959 I was practically a greenhorn concerning vegetarianism. Then I married Siegfried! One of the wedding gifts I received from him was a vegetarian cookbook. I struggled with the concept.
Get a Handle on Stress
O Excellent, I love long life better than figs. --William Shakespeare Stress is like the card that finally tips the balance on the house of cards, bringing everything crashing down. An immune system that is in top operating order will only be minimally affected by small stressors.
O Excellent, I love long life better than figs. --William Shakespeare Stress is like the card that finally tips the balance on the house of cards, bringing everything crashing down. An immune system that is in top operating order will only be minimally affected by small stressors.
Vertical Dance
The thrill of rock climbing has become my passion. A five-foot female, I once thought climbing was for large males. But brute strength is not a prerequisite. Anyone can climb.
The thrill of rock climbing has become my passion. A five-foot female, I once thought climbing was for large males. But brute strength is not a prerequisite. Anyone can climb.
An Ocean Retreat at Any Age
I learned to sea kayak in 1996 when I was in my late fifties. It's not that difficult!My partner David was an experienced kayaker but I first joined him when we bought a large second-hand double sea kayak.
I learned to sea kayak in 1996 when I was in my late fifties. It's not that difficult!My partner David was an experienced kayaker but I first joined him when we bought a large second-hand double sea kayak.
Kayaking 101
Kayaking is one of the fastest growing water sports. It can be peaceful and meditative on still water or exhilarating and exciting on white water. Either way, there are a few basics to consider.
Kayaking is one of the fastest growing water sports. It can be peaceful and meditative on still water or exhilarating and exciting on white water. Either way, there are a few basics to consider.
Return to Your Roots
Is your body genetically programmed to thrive on foods which were prevalent in the diet of your ancestors? If your forbears lived in northern Europe, should you build your diet around fish and dairy? If you're of Asian desc.
Is your body genetically programmed to thrive on foods which were prevalent in the diet of your ancestors? If your forbears lived in northern Europe, should you build your diet around fish and dairy? If you're of Asian desc.
Stress Management
We've all felt our "fight or flight" response go into action--a sudden increase in blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, metabolism and blood sugar that helps us react quickly to stressful situations. When the danger is over our parasympathetic nervous system takes over with a compensating period of relaxation.
We've all felt our "fight or flight" response go into action--a sudden increase in blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, metabolism and blood sugar that helps us react quickly to stressful situations. When the danger is over our parasympathetic nervous system takes over with a compensating period of relaxation.
Keep Workplace Stress in Check
We've all been there--stress-filled days at work, mounting chores at home and endless tasks on our to-do lis.
We've all been there--stress-filled days at work, mounting chores at home and endless tasks on our to-do lis.
The Holistic Gym Bag
In order to have a truly holistic approach to getting in shape at the gym, you'll need a gym bag that's in tip top shape as well. With these natural toiletry items and remedies, you will be ready to kick some butt.
In order to have a truly holistic approach to getting in shape at the gym, you'll need a gym bag that's in tip top shape as well. With these natural toiletry items and remedies, you will be ready to kick some butt.
Head for the Hills
Carve a slice out of life with a day of intense snowboarding. Within a few brief minutes on the slope you'll experience a feeling of exhilaration and the intense physicality of this snowbound sport..
Carve a slice out of life with a day of intense snowboarding. Within a few brief minutes on the slope you'll experience a feeling of exhilaration and the intense physicality of this snowbound sport..
Can My Diet Survive the Shortbread Season?
It's that time of year when all those parties and social gatherings dot the calendar. Everywhere we turn, sweet temptation rears its ugly hea.
It's that time of year when all those parties and social gatherings dot the calendar. Everywhere we turn, sweet temptation rears its ugly hea.
Herbs for Hectic Times
Famous author and personality Deepak Chopra likes to tell a story about a medical doctor who had not had a check-up for 25 years. When the doctor finally was compelled to get a physical for life insurance requirements, a large dark spot was found on his lung. It was diagnosed as inoperable cancer. A couple of months later, the doctor was dead.
Famous author and personality Deepak Chopra likes to tell a story about a medical doctor who had not had a check-up for 25 years. When the doctor finally was compelled to get a physical for life insurance requirements, a large dark spot was found on his lung. It was diagnosed as inoperable cancer. A couple of months later, the doctor was dead.
Weekend Fitness
Tackle your favourite activities without becoming a casualty! The setting might be different, but the story stays the same: You've just gone through a relatively inactive winter, and at the first sign of summer you jump back into your favou.
Tackle your favourite activities without becoming a casualty! The setting might be different, but the story stays the same: You've just gone through a relatively inactive winter, and at the first sign of summer you jump back into your favou.
Hot Ways to Break a Sweat
Call them fitness crazes. Call them trends. It really doesn't matter so long as people are trying them, sticking to them and getting something out of them.
Call them fitness crazes. Call them trends. It really doesn't matter so long as people are trying them, sticking to them and getting something out of them.
Not Getting the Results You Want?
Ask a fitness professional. Check out some fitness Web sites. Each has a different list of the most common mistakes made by people who exercise-but some of the same mistakes seem to pop up on almost every lis.
Ask a fitness professional. Check out some fitness Web sites. Each has a different list of the most common mistakes made by people who exercise-but some of the same mistakes seem to pop up on almost every lis.
Life Acts, I React
Stress is a much-talked-about issue today. Current literature points to the impact it has on emotional, mental and physical health. I get very concerned when researchers tell me that stress is a main contributor in the development of both emotion- and age-related illnessess, including the dreaded cancer.
Stress is a much-talked-about issue today. Current literature points to the impact it has on emotional, mental and physical health. I get very concerned when researchers tell me that stress is a main contributor in the development of both emotion- and age-related illnessess, including the dreaded cancer.
Exercise As Preventive Medicine
You can either choose to become a statistic or start to take an active role in preventing killer diseases and increasing longevit.
You can either choose to become a statistic or start to take an active role in preventing killer diseases and increasing longevit.
Holiday Stress Soooothers
Christmas holidays are supposed to be festive and a time of relaxation. Yet for many, this season is the most stressful time of the year. Planning meals, vacations, buying presents, and everything else can wear the mind and body down.
Christmas holidays are supposed to be festive and a time of relaxation. Yet for many, this season is the most stressful time of the year. Planning meals, vacations, buying presents, and everything else can wear the mind and body down.
Fitting in Holiday Fitness
How many of us have a difficult time of fitting some form of physical activity into our daily routine? During hectic times like Christmas, many of us simply give up without a fight, cutting back on our fitness routines because of the demands of the.
How many of us have a difficult time of fitting some form of physical activity into our daily routine? During hectic times like Christmas, many of us simply give up without a fight, cutting back on our fitness routines because of the demands of the.
Avoiding Adrenal Exhaustion
Driven to be superwoman at home and on the job, you can overtax your hormones and eventually suffer burnout. But there is hope and hel.
Driven to be superwoman at home and on the job, you can overtax your hormones and eventually suffer burnout. But there is hope and hel.
Fitness the Family Way
Whether working inside or outside the home, many parents find it extremely challenging to find time for fitness. Every day they are trying to "do it all"-put time in at work, prepare nutritious meals, spend quality time as a family and transport children here, there and everywhere.
Whether working inside or outside the home, many parents find it extremely challenging to find time for fitness. Every day they are trying to "do it all"-put time in at work, prepare nutritious meals, spend quality time as a family and transport children here, there and everywhere.
Not in the Mood?
Something holds us back from exercising. The problem is not usually a lack of desire, but often the way we approach physical activity.
Something holds us back from exercising. The problem is not usually a lack of desire, but often the way we approach physical activity.
Movement
If we could bottle the benefits of physical exercise, we would have one of the most powerful anti-aging remedies known. Physical activity rejuvenates virtually every organ in your body, adding energy to your days and years to your life.
If we could bottle the benefits of physical exercise, we would have one of the most powerful anti-aging remedies known. Physical activity rejuvenates virtually every organ in your body, adding energy to your days and years to your life.
Our Food Is Killing Us!
Dieticians and nutritionists tend to evaluate the food and drink we consume by the calories they contain and whether they will make us lose weight or make us fat. They develop formulas with the right proportion of carbohydrates, protein and fats for keeping our bodies healthy and good-looking.
Dieticians and nutritionists tend to evaluate the food and drink we consume by the calories they contain and whether they will make us lose weight or make us fat. They develop formulas with the right proportion of carbohydrates, protein and fats for keeping our bodies healthy and good-looking.
Get Straight A's in Exercise
Anaerobic activities will increase your lean muscle mass, bone structure, strength, endurance and balance. Aerobic activities will decrease coronary disease, blood pressure, risk of diabetes, osteoporosis and some forms of cancer.
Anaerobic activities will increase your lean muscle mass, bone structure, strength, endurance and balance. Aerobic activities will decrease coronary disease, blood pressure, risk of diabetes, osteoporosis and some forms of cancer.
Developing Your Personal Nutrient Plan
Each of us would do well to become more educated about our body and then develop a personalized vitamin-mineral program to suit.
Each of us would do well to become more educated about our body and then develop a personalized vitamin-mineral program to suit.
The Source of Your Stress
Occupational noise is annoying, distracting and inhibits productivity, essentially impacting the bottom lin.
Occupational noise is annoying, distracting and inhibits productivity, essentially impacting the bottom lin.
Young and Stressed
Often unnoticed and untreated, stress is a huge factor in the health of Canadian children.
Often unnoticed and untreated, stress is a huge factor in the health of Canadian children.
Undress Your Stress
Do you ever find yourself saying, "I'm so stressed"? Well, what does this mean exactly? Stress is a very broad and often misunderstood concept.
Do you ever find yourself saying, "I'm so stressed"? Well, what does this mean exactly? Stress is a very broad and often misunderstood concept.
Building Your Exercise Routine
Building your exercise routine is like building a home. You begin by asking yourself what you want and then you develop a plan to attain that goa.
Building your exercise routine is like building a home. You begin by asking yourself what you want and then you develop a plan to attain that goa.
Are You Exercise Obsessed?
As many of us struggle to keep up with a regular fitness program for good health and a balanced lifestyle, there is a flipside to good intentions called "exercise addiction.
As many of us struggle to keep up with a regular fitness program for good health and a balanced lifestyle, there is a flipside to good intentions called "exercise addiction.
Exercise to Energize!
Your body is unlike any other machine in the world. Generally speaking, the more you use a machine the faster it will wear down. However, the more you use your body the more efficient it becomes and the longer (and better) it will work.
Your body is unlike any other machine in the world. Generally speaking, the more you use a machine the faster it will wear down. However, the more you use your body the more efficient it becomes and the longer (and better) it will work.
Stories We Live By
For many people, the word "trauma" triggers images of terrible events afflicting the innocent: abuse, the death of loved ones, war, or natural disasters. The consequences of trauma on emotional health are well known and include mild to severe depression, anxiety, and panic attacks to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
For many people, the word "trauma" triggers images of terrible events afflicting the innocent: abuse, the death of loved ones, war, or natural disasters. The consequences of trauma on emotional health are well known and include mild to severe depression, anxiety, and panic attacks to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
No Pain-Great Gain
Regular exercise is great for both mind and body and helps keep us youthful and energeti.
Regular exercise is great for both mind and body and helps keep us youthful and energeti.
Fitness For Every Age
Perhaps the most important factor in a fitness program as we age is having enough energy to maintain an active lifestyle. Due to the wear and tear of a lifetime of not taking care of ourselves, however, we may experience an "energy crisis..
Perhaps the most important factor in a fitness program as we age is having enough energy to maintain an active lifestyle. Due to the wear and tear of a lifetime of not taking care of ourselves, however, we may experience an "energy crisis..
A Beginner's Guide to Getting Fit and Healthy
Bravo! You have made the commitment to get into shape. The "I don't want to exercise phase is over. Something inside of you has "clicked and you are ready to begin creating healthier habits.
Bravo! You have made the commitment to get into shape. The "I don't want to exercise phase is over. Something inside of you has "clicked and you are ready to begin creating healthier habits.
Spinning
If the sweat is literally pouring off you and, creating a small puddle on the floor, chances are you are probably Spinning, Power Pacing, or participating in some sort of group cycling class. .
If the sweat is literally pouring off you and, creating a small puddle on the floor, chances are you are probably Spinning, Power Pacing, or participating in some sort of group cycling class. .
Don't "Waist" Time!
Most people these days will tell you that they are stressed. Chronic stress has been linked to North America's five leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, lung disease, accidents and cirrhosis of the live.
Most people these days will tell you that they are stressed. Chronic stress has been linked to North America's five leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, lung disease, accidents and cirrhosis of the live.
You Are How You Eat
Food eaten without relish and appetite may remain for hours in the stomach undigested. There's no end to nutritional advice about what we should eat. We can barely make it from one meal to the next without information about food choices from our televisions, radios, books, newspapers, and magazines.
Food eaten without relish and appetite may remain for hours in the stomach undigested. There's no end to nutritional advice about what we should eat. We can barely make it from one meal to the next without information about food choices from our televisions, radios, books, newspapers, and magazines.
Take the Longer Road
We see stunning makeovers of average people on television and hear and read testimonials about the latest and greatest piece of equipment or program that transformed the regular Joe into a "chick magnet.
We see stunning makeovers of average people on television and hear and read testimonials about the latest and greatest piece of equipment or program that transformed the regular Joe into a "chick magnet.
The Science of Mood Foods
Why is it that the majority of diets seem to go down in a hail of cookies and ice cream? The answer usually lies in our inherited biochemistry. Back in the good old days (a few thousand years ago), food was not as plentiful as it is today.
Why is it that the majority of diets seem to go down in a hail of cookies and ice cream? The answer usually lies in our inherited biochemistry. Back in the good old days (a few thousand years ago), food was not as plentiful as it is today.
Holiday Stress
Ho, ho, hold the stress. The coming holiday season is supposed to be full of laughter but many find it full of stress. It has been estimated that about three-quarters of all visits to primary care physicians are for stress-related problems..
Ho, ho, hold the stress. The coming holiday season is supposed to be full of laughter but many find it full of stress. It has been estimated that about three-quarters of all visits to primary care physicians are for stress-related problems..
The Stress and Diabetes Link
Diabetes is a disease of civilization. It is a disease of unhealthy eating patterns, low levels of physical activity, and chronic emotional stress. Canada's aboriginal people provide a dramatic example. A few decades ago, diabetes was virtually unknown among the Cree nation of northwestern Ontario.
Diabetes is a disease of civilization. It is a disease of unhealthy eating patterns, low levels of physical activity, and chronic emotional stress. Canada's aboriginal people provide a dramatic example. A few decades ago, diabetes was virtually unknown among the Cree nation of northwestern Ontario.
Beating Christmas Stress
In an infamous experiment in the 1960s, lab researchers wanted to examine effects of stress on rats. First, they took an individual rat, isolated it, then injected it with increasing doses of amphetamines until, in the name of science, the poor rat died. Next, researchers did the same to a group of rats in a confined area..
In an infamous experiment in the 1960s, lab researchers wanted to examine effects of stress on rats. First, they took an individual rat, isolated it, then injected it with increasing doses of amphetamines until, in the name of science, the poor rat died. Next, researchers did the same to a group of rats in a confined area..
Stress Busters
Children often feel our stress at this time of year, so what can we do to lessen its effects? We don't want stressed-out children to bottle up their emotions, creating emotional and physical effects. You can help your children develop skills to express and release their feelings to maintain good emotional health..
Children often feel our stress at this time of year, so what can we do to lessen its effects? We don't want stressed-out children to bottle up their emotions, creating emotional and physical effects. You can help your children develop skills to express and release their feelings to maintain good emotional health..
Ski Whiz
How many of us know someone who launched headlong into their first ski run of the season, only to arrive at the bottom of the mountain strapped to a stretcher, out of action for the rest of the winter? By spending littl.
How many of us know someone who launched headlong into their first ski run of the season, only to arrive at the bottom of the mountain strapped to a stretcher, out of action for the rest of the winter? By spending littl.
The French Paradox Explained
Many jealous North Americans have wondered how the French can consume foods that are known contributors to weight gain - white bread, cheese, rich sauces, and red wine - yet never seem to gain a pound. Scientists have coined it the French paradox.
Many jealous North Americans have wondered how the French can consume foods that are known contributors to weight gain - white bread, cheese, rich sauces, and red wine - yet never seem to gain a pound. Scientists have coined it the French paradox.
Food Combinations for a Healthy heart
Viscous fibre from oats and barley, plant sterols from fruits and vegetables, soy protein, and nuts such as almonds and walnuts: these four types of foods have been shown to improve heart health by increasing high-density lipoprotein.
Viscous fibre from oats and barley, plant sterols from fruits and vegetables, soy protein, and nuts such as almonds and walnuts: these four types of foods have been shown to improve heart health by increasing high-density lipoprotein.
Monitoring After-Meal Blood Sugar
One of the most important goals in helping people manage blood sugar, lose weight, and control appetite is preventing excessive after-meal elevations in blood sugar levels.
One of the most important goals in helping people manage blood sugar, lose weight, and control appetite is preventing excessive after-meal elevations in blood sugar levels.
A Cleansing Sweat
No doubt about it, exercise makes us sweat. Although uncomfortable to many, sweating is essential to our health. Perspiration helps the body stay cool despite the increased internal temperatures produced by exercise.
No doubt about it, exercise makes us sweat. Although uncomfortable to many, sweating is essential to our health. Perspiration helps the body stay cool despite the increased internal temperatures produced by exercise.
Stressed Out
If you're like so many other people, you're stressed from the moment you wake up until you hit the sack some 16 hours late.
If you're like so many other people, you're stressed from the moment you wake up until you hit the sack some 16 hours late.
Fast Food
Time-starved or just plain starved, many of us are reliant on searching for a convenient and healthy "meal replacement to complement our fast-paced lifestyles.
Time-starved or just plain starved, many of us are reliant on searching for a convenient and healthy "meal replacement to complement our fast-paced lifestyles.
Stress Less
The alarm goes off at 7 am. You manage to drag your body out of bed. Once you've been jolted awake by that large cup of coffee, the mental list begins in your head. Before you realize it, tension mounts and you've worked yourself up into a frenzy..
The alarm goes off at 7 am. You manage to drag your body out of bed. Once you've been jolted awake by that large cup of coffee, the mental list begins in your head. Before you realize it, tension mounts and you've worked yourself up into a frenzy..
Suffer Less From Stress
Do you feel stressed a lot of the time? Maybe you're convinced that nothing can be done, except moving to a remote island and throwing away your cell phone. Wait a minute, though.
Do you feel stressed a lot of the time? Maybe you're convinced that nothing can be done, except moving to a remote island and throwing away your cell phone. Wait a minute, though.
Wheatless Wonders
As a nutritionist, I am often asked about gluten-free diets by those with difficulty digesting certain grain foods. Gluten is a protein made up of many different proteins. Two main groups of these are gliadin and glutenin.
As a nutritionist, I am often asked about gluten-free diets by those with difficulty digesting certain grain foods. Gluten is a protein made up of many different proteins. Two main groups of these are gliadin and glutenin.
Stress and Your Health
Burnout has been defined as a state of mental and/or physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. The physical toll of burnout can be very high, yet it is often overlooked as a key influence on health.
Burnout has been defined as a state of mental and/or physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. The physical toll of burnout can be very high, yet it is often overlooked as a key influence on health.
Working Well
You're sitting at your desk, slouching at the end of a tiring day, stressed about deadlines and staring at a computer screen, but focusing instead on your headache, stiff neck, sore hands, or aching back.
You're sitting at your desk, slouching at the end of a tiring day, stressed about deadlines and staring at a computer screen, but focusing instead on your headache, stiff neck, sore hands, or aching back.
Digging for Gold at the Beach
Canadian Olympic hopeful Jody Holden charts his course to victory with a whole-food diet, exercise and rest.
Canadian Olympic hopeful Jody Holden charts his course to victory with a whole-food diet, exercise and rest.
Vitality: Quest for a Healthy Diet in the Wake of the Low Carb Craze
It was the ever witty Mark Twain who said, "Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint."
It was the ever witty Mark Twain who said, "Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint."
De-Stressing Our Children This Holiday Season
When we think of the holiday season, weconjure up images of beautifully wrappedpresents, out-of-town relatives, and delicious food. Yet, even though the holidayseason can be filled with joy and abundance, this time of year can also bequite stressful for adults and children.
When we think of the holiday season, weconjure up images of beautifully wrappedpresents, out-of-town relatives, and delicious food. Yet, even though the holidayseason can be filled with joy and abundance, this time of year can also bequite stressful for adults and children.
The Anti-Inflammatory Diet
What do type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, obesity, cancer, heart disease, stroke, Parkinson's, and rheumatoid arthritis all have in common? Ground-breaking research indicates that they may all begin with an inflammatory process.
What do type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, obesity, cancer, heart disease, stroke, Parkinson's, and rheumatoid arthritis all have in common? Ground-breaking research indicates that they may all begin with an inflammatory process.
Are You a Skinny, Fat Person?
Everyone admires the supermodel who "never works out" and "eats everything" yet still manages to look fabulous. Some of us even strive for her looks by following a diet of lattes and lettuce. What's surprising is that this beautiful, slim woman may actually have high body fat and the foundation for chronic disease.
Everyone admires the supermodel who "never works out" and "eats everything" yet still manages to look fabulous. Some of us even strive for her looks by following a diet of lattes and lettuce. What's surprising is that this beautiful, slim woman may actually have high body fat and the foundation for chronic disease.
The Path to Health
With the support of the president of Alive Publishing Group Inc., and the editor-in-chief of alive Magazine, Jacqueline (not her real name) agreed to be a case study subject for the pages of this magazine in a series of three monthly articles, 'so that others may be helped and inspired'.
With the support of the president of Alive Publishing Group Inc., and the editor-in-chief of alive Magazine, Jacqueline (not her real name) agreed to be a case study subject for the pages of this magazine in a series of three monthly articles, 'so that others may be helped and inspired'.
Rough Day?
Time to relax and rejuvenate. Right? So why are we still feeling stressed? Medical science now knows that stress is a contributing factor in virtually all disease.
Time to relax and rejuvenate. Right? So why are we still feeling stressed? Medical science now knows that stress is a contributing factor in virtually all disease.
Take It Outside
There is growing evidence of a paradigm shift in the fitness industry toward athletic-oriented training. Just as elite athletes train for performance, many people want a fitness program that delivers a body that moves well and allows them to enjoy a full range of activities while remaining injury free.
There is growing evidence of a paradigm shift in the fitness industry toward athletic-oriented training. Just as elite athletes train for performance, many people want a fitness program that delivers a body that moves well and allows them to enjoy a full range of activities while remaining injury free.
Triumph Over Stress
Nicole stumbled into my examination room clutching her stomach. She'd had severe abdominal cramps for over two weeks. Tense and anxious, Nicole was convinced that she had developed some terrible disease like cancer.
Nicole stumbled into my examination room clutching her stomach. She'd had severe abdominal cramps for over two weeks. Tense and anxious, Nicole was convinced that she had developed some terrible disease like cancer.
Stress and Your Metabolism
Is everyone stressed these days? According to Kenneth Pelletier, PhD, author of Mind as Healer, Mind as Slayer (Stanford University Press, 2002), between 80 and 90 percent of all illnesses are linked to stress, and 75 to 90 percent of all visits to the doctor are for stress and anxiety-related concerns.
Is everyone stressed these days? According to Kenneth Pelletier, PhD, author of Mind as Healer, Mind as Slayer (Stanford University Press, 2002), between 80 and 90 percent of all illnesses are linked to stress, and 75 to 90 percent of all visits to the doctor are for stress and anxiety-related concerns.
Protein Up Your Detox
Most North Americans begin their daily ritual with a shower. We place significant importance on the products we use to brush our teeth, wash our hair, and cleanse our bodies. Yet many of us do not practise the same stringent guidelines when it comes to what we ingest and how we cleanse our bodies from the inside.
Most North Americans begin their daily ritual with a shower. We place significant importance on the products we use to brush our teeth, wash our hair, and cleanse our bodies. Yet many of us do not practise the same stringent guidelines when it comes to what we ingest and how we cleanse our bodies from the inside.
The Natural Makeover Diet
Our faces don't lie. You can determine the state of a woman's health simply by looking at her skin, hair, and nails. Try as we might, no amount or makeup will work to change those suitcases under our eyes or the alligator skin on our hands.
Our faces don't lie. You can determine the state of a woman's health simply by looking at her skin, hair, and nails. Try as we might, no amount or makeup will work to change those suitcases under our eyes or the alligator skin on our hands.
Acid or Alkaline?
Your body's alkaline and acid balance (pH levels) can play a role in your overall state of health. For optimum health and well-being, leading health experts agree we should have a pH level as close to 7 (neutral) as possible.
Your body's alkaline and acid balance (pH levels) can play a role in your overall state of health. For optimum health and well-being, leading health experts agree we should have a pH level as close to 7 (neutral) as possible.
Relaxation Response
Fifty-one percent of Canadians are overweight and 59 percent report feeling moderately stressed. Coincidence? Nutritional psychologist Marc David doesn't think so. In his book The Slow Down Diet (Healing Arts, 2005), David suggests that if we want to burn calories at maximum levels, we may need to calm our stress levels.
Fifty-one percent of Canadians are overweight and 59 percent report feeling moderately stressed. Coincidence? Nutritional psychologist Marc David doesn't think so. In his book The Slow Down Diet (Healing Arts, 2005), David suggests that if we want to burn calories at maximum levels, we may need to calm our stress levels.
Rest Assured
Many of us have become so driven and overwhelmed by the demands of work and life that we tend to place a low priority on taking a regular time out to self-heal and regenerate.
Many of us have become so driven and overwhelmed by the demands of work and life that we tend to place a low priority on taking a regular time out to self-heal and regenerate.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is an excellent sport to participate in to increase your level of fitness. If you have ever thought about giving rock climbing a try, start with an online search for a local indoor facility. Soon you'll be climbing the walls!
Rock climbing is an excellent sport to participate in to increase your level of fitness. If you have ever thought about giving rock climbing a try, start with an online search for a local indoor facility. Soon you'll be climbing the walls!
Row Yourself Fit
Whether rowing a boat merrily down the stream or pulling the oars at the local fitness centre, rowers engage in one of the best exercises around for aerobic conditioning and for increasing strength and flexibility.
Whether rowing a boat merrily down the stream or pulling the oars at the local fitness centre, rowers engage in one of the best exercises around for aerobic conditioning and for increasing strength and flexibility.
The Natural Makeover Diet
Naturopathic doctor Joey Shulman is a high-profile authority on nutrition and fitness. The deceptively simple appearance of her new book, however, almost caused it to become lost in the pile of material that makes up this reviewer's desk.
Naturopathic doctor Joey Shulman is a high-profile authority on nutrition and fitness. The deceptively simple appearance of her new book, however, almost caused it to become lost in the pile of material that makes up this reviewer's desk.
Built Like a Greek God
Today, shifting values have forced younger generations of men to re-evaluate their masculinity and find a new respect for a well-groomed and chiselled physique. Sound diet and exercise are the foundations of good physique, but what may be more important is understanding that we are valued for what we do, not what we look like.
Today, shifting values have forced younger generations of men to re-evaluate their masculinity and find a new respect for a well-groomed and chiselled physique. Sound diet and exercise are the foundations of good physique, but what may be more important is understanding that we are valued for what we do, not what we look like.
Conception's Catch-22
We've all heard of couples who spend years undergoing all manner of tests, procedures, and infertility treatments in trying to conceive their first child. Many achieve their miracle through adoption-and then successfully conceive. Researchers have been studying the stress/fertility paradox and some are now suggesting a link.
We've all heard of couples who spend years undergoing all manner of tests, procedures, and infertility treatments in trying to conceive their first child. Many achieve their miracle through adoption-and then successfully conceive. Researchers have been studying the stress/fertility paradox and some are now suggesting a link.
Out of the Boathouse
Derek Porter, Olympic medalist and world champion singles rowing star is drawn to the holistic nature of chiropractic. From his early rowing days at UVic, he realized the performance-enhancing benefits of regular treatments with the team chiropractor. A regular reader of alive magazine, Porter fully subscribes to a natural, organic lifestyle.
Derek Porter, Olympic medalist and world champion singles rowing star is drawn to the holistic nature of chiropractic. From his early rowing days at UVic, he realized the performance-enhancing benefits of regular treatments with the team chiropractor. A regular reader of alive magazine, Porter fully subscribes to a natural, organic lifestyle.
Give Your Walk Some WOW!
Bored with your walking regimen? Invigorate your step with Nordic walking poles, and you'll burn an average of 20 percent more calories than during a regular walk and get all the benefits of an upper body workout, with less stress on your knees. Walking with your poles as little as thirty minutes a day, three times a week, can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your cholesterol.
Bored with your walking regimen? Invigorate your step with Nordic walking poles, and you'll burn an average of 20 percent more calories than during a regular walk and get all the benefits of an upper body workout, with less stress on your knees. Walking with your poles as little as thirty minutes a day, three times a week, can help lower your blood pressure and reduce your cholesterol.
Three Phases of Fitness
If your goal is to build lean muscle mass, improve your strength, and define your body, then you have to train smarter, not harder. You can build a muscular physique naturally by following a phase-based approach: Foundation phase, Hypertrophy phase, and Firming phase.
If your goal is to build lean muscle mass, improve your strength, and define your body, then you have to train smarter, not harder. You can build a muscular physique naturally by following a phase-based approach: Foundation phase, Hypertrophy phase, and Firming phase.
The Role of Reflexology in Wellness
Reflexology is an effective way to relieve stress. Ask anyone who has experienced reflexology; they will describe how it relaxed them, and they often go on to describe the benefits that resulted.
Reflexology is an effective way to relieve stress. Ask anyone who has experienced reflexology; they will describe how it relaxed them, and they often go on to describe the benefits that resulted.
Five Steps from Fine to Fabulous
We all have the power to influence our health and well-being through the choices we make every day.
We all have the power to influence our health and well-being through the choices we make every day.
Yeast
A recent conversation with Edith, an old friend, reminded me that even an ordinarily vivacious and energetic health professional can occasionally have trouble with weight and depression.
A recent conversation with Edith, an old friend, reminded me that even an ordinarily vivacious and energetic health professional can occasionally have trouble with weight and depression.
The Metabolic Syndrome Program
Most of us don't yet know much about metabolic syndrome (MSX), but in the few short minutes it will take to read this page, we may realize that someone we know could be suffering from this group of conditions.
Most of us don't yet know much about metabolic syndrome (MSX), but in the few short minutes it will take to read this page, we may realize that someone we know could be suffering from this group of conditions.
Exercise for a Positive Mind Set
Regular exercise may be one of the best ways to enhance powerful mood-lifting brain chemicals that may work as natural antidepressants. It enhances overall brain function and helps to alleviate depression, one of the most common disorders of our time.
Regular exercise may be one of the best ways to enhance powerful mood-lifting brain chemicals that may work as natural antidepressants. It enhances overall brain function and helps to alleviate depression, one of the most common disorders of our time.
Food and Mood
The relationship between food and mood is mediated by both psychological and physiological factors. It is clear that food can influence mood while mood can influence food choices. It is a complex relationship and based on taste, experience, expectations, culture, stressors, and nutritional status.
The relationship between food and mood is mediated by both psychological and physiological factors. It is clear that food can influence mood while mood can influence food choices. It is a complex relationship and based on taste, experience, expectations, culture, stressors, and nutritional status.
Balancing Act
Living a natural lifestyle is challenging, and raising children with the same beliefs is even harder. Living a natural lifestyle is a commitment-a commitment to your family, to the environment, and most of all, to yourself.
Living a natural lifestyle is challenging, and raising children with the same beliefs is even harder. Living a natural lifestyle is a commitment-a commitment to your family, to the environment, and most of all, to yourself.
Sugar, Obesity, and Depression
In a study of adults with fructose intolerance, reducing dietary fructose resulted in a 65-percent reduction in depression scores in only four weeks. There is mounting evidence that obesity and depression share a close relationship. Regular exercise can make a world of difference for the depressed.
In a study of adults with fructose intolerance, reducing dietary fructose resulted in a 65-percent reduction in depression scores in only four weeks. There is mounting evidence that obesity and depression share a close relationship. Regular exercise can make a world of difference for the depressed.
Beauty-Inside and Out
BeautyThere are healthy strategies that keep you feeling good, and the natural outcome of feeling good is looking good-no matter what your age. Eating well, exercising, and taking the right supplements help promote a healthy body-and a healthy look. Why not be beautiful inside and out?
BeautyThere are healthy strategies that keep you feeling good, and the natural outcome of feeling good is looking good-no matter what your age. Eating well, exercising, and taking the right supplements help promote a healthy body-and a healthy look. Why not be beautiful inside and out?
The Brain Diet
People in the medical and natural health fields, along with the rest of us, are long overdue for a body of work that targets medicine's final frontier-the brain. Alan C. Logan uses recent, relevant research to show the definitive link between our mental state and what we eat.
People in the medical and natural health fields, along with the rest of us, are long overdue for a body of work that targets medicine's final frontier-the brain. Alan C. Logan uses recent, relevant research to show the definitive link between our mental state and what we eat.
Antiaging or Healthy Aging?
With the growing number of baby boomers entering their golden years, interest in antiaging is at an all-time high. Although we may not be able to stop the aging process, healthy aging can help minimize the effects of time by optimizing our health along the way.
With the growing number of baby boomers entering their golden years, interest in antiaging is at an all-time high. Although we may not be able to stop the aging process, healthy aging can help minimize the effects of time by optimizing our health along the way.
Hard Bodies and Beautiful Bodies
Teens are bombarded daily with the message that image is all important. They are looking for the magic pill, a quick fix. TV, film, and popular magazines tell them it's available. Fortunately for them, there is no miracle overnight solution, but there are healthy ways that teens (and adults) can lose weight and build muscle.
Teens are bombarded daily with the message that image is all important. They are looking for the magic pill, a quick fix. TV, film, and popular magazines tell them it's available. Fortunately for them, there is no miracle overnight solution, but there are healthy ways that teens (and adults) can lose weight and build muscle.
The Inflammation-Free Diet Plan
Of the varied health books that cross my desk each month, this one falls solidly into the category of practical tools. The Inflammation-Free Diet Plan is just that-a guide to help those readers who have already identified cellular inflammation as a causal factor in their degenerative health.
Of the varied health books that cross my desk each month, this one falls solidly into the category of practical tools. The Inflammation-Free Diet Plan is just that-a guide to help those readers who have already identified cellular inflammation as a causal factor in their degenerative health.
Natural Stress Reduction
Casein hydrolysate and magnolia bark, two supplements with a sedative effect, may help decrease the release of the body's stress hormones and fight the battle against belly fat. Fat cells in the belly have three times the number of stress hormone receptors and therefore attract three times the amount of stored fat to the region.
Casein hydrolysate and magnolia bark, two supplements with a sedative effect, may help decrease the release of the body's stress hormones and fight the battle against belly fat. Fat cells in the belly have three times the number of stress hormone receptors and therefore attract three times the amount of stored fat to the region.
Avoid Holiday Overindulgence
Highly viscous soluble dietary fibres (plant-derived polysaccharides) help people achieve and maintain their ideal body weight. It slows stomach emptying, produces a sensation of being full, and exerts powerful effects reducing the level of compounds that stimulate appetite, while at the same time increasing the level of compounds that block appetite.
Highly viscous soluble dietary fibres (plant-derived polysaccharides) help people achieve and maintain their ideal body weight. It slows stomach emptying, produces a sensation of being full, and exerts powerful effects reducing the level of compounds that stimulate appetite, while at the same time increasing the level of compounds that block appetite.
21 Days to Crack the Code
Your 10,000 taste buds are replaced every 21 days, but after the age of 40 they are not replaced as efficiently, leaving a person with only about 5,000 taste buds and, unfortunately, a narrower preference for food choices. As a result, flavour enhancers in processed foods are not perceived as easily and we need to be extra vigilant.
Your 10,000 taste buds are replaced every 21 days, but after the age of 40 they are not replaced as efficiently, leaving a person with only about 5,000 taste buds and, unfortunately, a narrower preference for food choices. As a result, flavour enhancers in processed foods are not perceived as easily and we need to be extra vigilant.
Maintaining Fine Fettle...for Fun and Festivities
December's frenzied rush toward holiday preparations finds many of us overburdened with activities that waylay our well-established fitness regimens. We'd like to take a moment to remind you that some of those fitness routines can go a long way toward managing seasonal stresses.
December's frenzied rush toward holiday preparations finds many of us overburdened with activities that waylay our well-established fitness regimens. We'd like to take a moment to remind you that some of those fitness routines can go a long way toward managing seasonal stresses.
Skiing on the Slopes of Health
Both cross-country and alpine skiing exude a physiological and psychological rush that allows you to temporarily escape from the stresses of the world. While skiing is a technical and physical recreational sport requiring concentration and skill, the beauty of the sport can be experienced by people of all ages.
Both cross-country and alpine skiing exude a physiological and psychological rush that allows you to temporarily escape from the stresses of the world. While skiing is a technical and physical recreational sport requiring concentration and skill, the beauty of the sport can be experienced by people of all ages.
Meaningful Makeovers
Our alive makeover series introduces you to two people, Rob and Toni, who are hoping to improve their lives from the inside out. No plastic surgery or new shoes; they're aiming for healthier diets and lifestyles. It'll involve hard work-no magic wands.
Our alive makeover series introduces you to two people, Rob and Toni, who are hoping to improve their lives from the inside out. No plastic surgery or new shoes; they're aiming for healthier diets and lifestyles. It'll involve hard work-no magic wands.
Ski Superstar Jennifer Heil
Jenn's natural approach to health has brought her body and her career to full bloom. Olympic gold medalist, Jennifer Heil discusses the secrets to her success.
Jenn's natural approach to health has brought her body and her career to full bloom. Olympic gold medalist, Jennifer Heil discusses the secrets to her success.
Elevating Natural Health
Pierre Ménard is the founder and owner of La Boite à Grains, an award-winning natural health food store. "Ever since I was a child, Pierre explains, "I've had a mystical yearning to visit Africa. When I read in the newspaper that a charitable climbing expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro was looking for volunteers, I began to dream all over again.
Pierre Ménard is the founder and owner of La Boite à Grains, an award-winning natural health food store. "Ever since I was a child, Pierre explains, "I've had a mystical yearning to visit Africa. When I read in the newspaper that a charitable climbing expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro was looking for volunteers, I began to dream all over again.
Just for the Sport of It!
What better way to enhance beauty than through exercise? We polled some of our staff members about their favourite fitness activities and why they like them. Hopefully we've given you some ideas on ways to get out and get fit! "Tennis is my favourite activity mainly because it's fun.
What better way to enhance beauty than through exercise? We polled some of our staff members about their favourite fitness activities and why they like them. Hopefully we've given you some ideas on ways to get out and get fit! "Tennis is my favourite activity mainly because it's fun.
What's Your HQ?
"...a necessary first step on your journey to improved health, vitality and longevit.
"...a necessary first step on your journey to improved health, vitality and longevit.
Soak Up the Relaxation
Long-term emotional or environmental stresses can be hard on the body, mind, and emotions. Quality essential oils have powerful yet subtle effects on emotions and can help relieve stress and anxiety when used in baths, massages, or in aromatherapy diffusers.
Long-term emotional or environmental stresses can be hard on the body, mind, and emotions. Quality essential oils have powerful yet subtle effects on emotions and can help relieve stress and anxiety when used in baths, massages, or in aromatherapy diffusers.
10 Healthy Ways to Restore Inner Balance and Calm
The children are getting on your nerves, nothing's going right at work, and it looks like it's going to stay that way until your holiday. You're feeling stressed, like nearly half of Canadians (45 percent) who told Ipsos Reid in a 2006 survey that their stress levels are out of control.
The children are getting on your nerves, nothing's going right at work, and it looks like it's going to stay that way until your holiday. You're feeling stressed, like nearly half of Canadians (45 percent) who told Ipsos Reid in a 2006 survey that their stress levels are out of control.
Healthy Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day is approaching and many of us are reviewing our options. How can we show that special someone how much we care? Why not make an active decision that takes fitness to heart.
Valentine's Day is approaching and many of us are reviewing our options. How can we show that special someone how much we care? Why not make an active decision that takes fitness to heart.
Food and Mood
Food affects mood, influencing the production of neurotransmitters in the brain. Our moods, in turn, affect our desires for certain foods.
Food affects mood, influencing the production of neurotransmitters in the brain. Our moods, in turn, affect our desires for certain foods.
A Hard Road Well-Travelled
Simon Whitfield has come a long way since winning the gold medal for men's triathlon at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. Now older and wiser but still a big kid at heart, Whitfield's passions extend into organic foods and sustainable living.
Simon Whitfield has come a long way since winning the gold medal for men's triathlon at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. Now older and wiser but still a big kid at heart, Whitfield's passions extend into organic foods and sustainable living.
Untangling the Yo-Yo
In our age of quick fixes and instant solutions, crash weight-loss plans and fad diets seem almost mandatory. Who wants to wait weeks to see results when magazine covers promise that we can melt fat overnight, and drop 10 pounds in seven days?
In our age of quick fixes and instant solutions, crash weight-loss plans and fad diets seem almost mandatory. Who wants to wait weeks to see results when magazine covers promise that we can melt fat overnight, and drop 10 pounds in seven days?
L-theanine
Job pressures, family responsibilities, financial pressures, traffic, and time management are just a few of the stressors most of us face on a daily basis. Prescriptions for drugs that are supposed to improve anxiety, mood, and sleep are at an all-time high.
Job pressures, family responsibilities, financial pressures, traffic, and time management are just a few of the stressors most of us face on a daily basis. Prescriptions for drugs that are supposed to improve anxiety, mood, and sleep are at an all-time high.
Adapting to Stress
What is stress, exactly? Simply put, it is any change to our normal physiology that can be brought on by a stressor-anything from sudden, traumatic experiences to smaller, ongoing pressures that seem ncontrollable. Even joyous occasions are associated with a degree of stress.
What is stress, exactly? Simply put, it is any change to our normal physiology that can be brought on by a stressor-anything from sudden, traumatic experiences to smaller, ongoing pressures that seem ncontrollable. Even joyous occasions are associated with a degree of stress.
A Day in the Life...
She jumps out of bed; rushes to the bath; notices her belly, avoids the scales; dashes to the kitchen, no time for breakfast, then out the door; grabs a coffee on her way to work; up the elevator; straight to her desk, face like flint, no time for hello, too much to do.
She jumps out of bed; rushes to the bath; notices her belly, avoids the scales; dashes to the kitchen, no time for breakfast, then out the door; grabs a coffee on her way to work; up the elevator; straight to her desk, face like flint, no time for hello, too much to do.
Looking to Eat Healthier?
We know what foods are healthy: our challenge isn't about finding the best health-promoting foods but rather how we can conveniently incorporate them into our diets.
We know what foods are healthy: our challenge isn't about finding the best health-promoting foods but rather how we can conveniently incorporate them into our diets.
Yes, You can Care too Much...
A family caregiver, according to the Caregivers Association of BC (caregiverbc.ca), is anyone who provides unpaid care and support to an adult friend or family member who is disabled, chronically ill, frail, or elderly.
A family caregiver, according to the Caregivers Association of BC (caregiverbc.ca), is anyone who provides unpaid care and support to an adult friend or family member who is disabled, chronically ill, frail, or elderly.
Eat More-Weigh Less
Even thinking about dieting makes most people hungry, but eating more food can actually help you lose unwanted pounds. The key is choosing the right foods.
Even thinking about dieting makes most people hungry, but eating more food can actually help you lose unwanted pounds. The key is choosing the right foods.
Become a Spiritual Warrior
Sometimes it takes a Hollywood stamp of approval before we decide to give a new workout a try. After endorsements from Madonna, Gwyneth, and Jennifer, Budokon, which draws upon the ancient art of yoga, made the cover of TIME magazine and is now a fast-growing fitness trend in the Western world.
Sometimes it takes a Hollywood stamp of approval before we decide to give a new workout a try. After endorsements from Madonna, Gwyneth, and Jennifer, Budokon, which draws upon the ancient art of yoga, made the cover of TIME magazine and is now a fast-growing fitness trend in the Western world.
It's Your Life to Live
From crackberries to virtual reality, North Americans are addicted to speed, technology, distraction, achieving, and packing as much as possible into each day. While this lifestyle offers excitement, it does not leave much room for fulfillment, contentment, or health on any meaningful level.
From crackberries to virtual reality, North Americans are addicted to speed, technology, distraction, achieving, and packing as much as possible into each day. While this lifestyle offers excitement, it does not leave much room for fulfillment, contentment, or health on any meaningful level.
alive's Meaningful Makeovers
Who hasn't dreamed of being made over-poof!-into someone thinner, stronger, more energetic, attractive, and self-confident?
Who hasn't dreamed of being made over-poof!-into someone thinner, stronger, more energetic, attractive, and self-confident?
A Season of Stress
It was the Hungarian-born researcher Hans Selye who first began piecing together the puzzle of human stress in the 1930s.
It was the Hungarian-born researcher Hans Selye who first began piecing together the puzzle of human stress in the 1930s.
From Pole Dancing to Gliding
When I first started personal training, the step workout was at its popularity peak, and the stability ball was a foreign object in the gym. Today, step is on the downward side of the fitness craze and you can find stability balls everywhere, from senior centres to corporate offices.
When I first started personal training, the step workout was at its popularity peak, and the stability ball was a foreign object in the gym. Today, step is on the downward side of the fitness craze and you can find stability balls everywhere, from senior centres to corporate offices.
Planning to Ward Off Post-Season Blahs
No one could ever accuse me of being a grinch-the weeks and days leading up to December 25th are a flurry of shopping, baking, and planning. The day itself is always a good time, too-though seldom exactly how I had envisioned it. But then it's over...
No one could ever accuse me of being a grinch-the weeks and days leading up to December 25th are a flurry of shopping, baking, and planning. The day itself is always a good time, too-though seldom exactly how I had envisioned it. But then it's over...
Enhancing Metabolism with Fibre
When people decide to follow a healthy eating plan, they almost always consider their protein, carbohydrate, and fat intake with very little thought, if any, to dietary fibre.
When people decide to follow a healthy eating plan, they almost always consider their protein, carbohydrate, and fat intake with very little thought, if any, to dietary fibre.
Keep These Eight Off Your Plate
My first food-additive health scare left an indelible mark. I was working at a golf course while going to college. After one event, the party's hostess offered cake to the staff.
My first food-additive health scare left an indelible mark. I was working at a golf course while going to college. After one event, the party's hostess offered cake to the staff.
A Good Place to Work
Money matters-but it's not the only thing we care about. To ensure employee retention and satisfaction, enlightened employers know the value of developing a healthy workplace culture.
Money matters-but it's not the only thing we care about. To ensure employee retention and satisfaction, enlightened employers know the value of developing a healthy workplace culture.
You May Be Physically Fit...But Are You Financially Fit?
Sue and Mark and their two children live an active, healthy lifestyle. Yet Sue suffers from insomnia and tension headaches and she's had a series of colds over the past year. Sue visited the doctor recently. The diagnosis? Stress. Seems that anxiety about the family's finances is making her sick.
Sue and Mark and their two children live an active, healthy lifestyle. Yet Sue suffers from insomnia and tension headaches and she's had a series of colds over the past year. Sue visited the doctor recently. The diagnosis? Stress. Seems that anxiety about the family's finances is making her sick.
Workout Clothes For Everywoman
There are two types of women who frequent gyms: those who wear oversized T-shirts and sweatpants that bag at the knee, and those who wear flattering, form-hugging workout gear.
There are two types of women who frequent gyms: those who wear oversized T-shirts and sweatpants that bag at the knee, and those who wear flattering, form-hugging workout gear.
BC's Plan for the Olympics
When the 2010 Winter Olympics come to British Columbia, not only will the Olympic athletes want to be faster, higher, and stronger but the provincial government wants all British Columbians to be leaner, fitter, smoke-free, and full of vegetables and fruit.
When the 2010 Winter Olympics come to British Columbia, not only will the Olympic athletes want to be faster, higher, and stronger but the provincial government wants all British Columbians to be leaner, fitter, smoke-free, and full of vegetables and fruit.
Relax
As a working mom trying to balance all of my responsibilities, tension can feel overwhelming at times. That's when these five stress-busting exercises can really help. After 10 minutes invested in any one of these exercises, I usually feel relaxed and ready for anything. Try these quick, easy ways to combat stress and anxiety. You'll find they fit easily into even the busiest day.
As a working mom trying to balance all of my responsibilities, tension can feel overwhelming at times. That's when these five stress-busting exercises can really help. After 10 minutes invested in any one of these exercises, I usually feel relaxed and ready for anything. Try these quick, easy ways to combat stress and anxiety. You'll find they fit easily into even the busiest day.
Start Fresh
The West Coast's heart health couple have a new book under their trim belts and it's inspiring people at midlife to get back to fitness and healthy eating. The message: burn at least 600 calories a day and eat lightly, but eat well.
The West Coast's heart health couple have a new book under their trim belts and it's inspiring people at midlife to get back to fitness and healthy eating. The message: burn at least 600 calories a day and eat lightly, but eat well.
Take a Deep Breath
Stress is pervasive in our frenzied lives, but how many of us know how to truly relax? To find the answer to this question, I talked to stress management guru Eli Bay and discovered that you don't have to be lying on a beach in the Bahamas to unwind.
Stress is pervasive in our frenzied lives, but how many of us know how to truly relax? To find the answer to this question, I talked to stress management guru Eli Bay and discovered that you don't have to be lying on a beach in the Bahamas to unwind.
Jully Black's Revival
If someone were to ask you to make a connection between hip-hop music and natural health, would your response be one of blank confusion? Well, here is a connection you may never have made.
If someone were to ask you to make a connection between hip-hop music and natural health, would your response be one of blank confusion? Well, here is a connection you may never have made.
Climbing the Walls
Have you been looking for a new and interesting way to test your fitness mettle? Perhaps you want to shake up your workout routine. Or maybe you're ready to overcome a fear of heights.
Have you been looking for a new and interesting way to test your fitness mettle? Perhaps you want to shake up your workout routine. Or maybe you're ready to overcome a fear of heights.
Taiko Fit
Depending on your culture, the beating of a drum can evoke powerful memories: a new harvest season, the joys of music class, or the days of playing in a live band. For some, beating a drum is a convenient, fun, and exhilarating way to get fit.
Depending on your culture, the beating of a drum can evoke powerful memories: a new harvest season, the joys of music class, or the days of playing in a live band. For some, beating a drum is a convenient, fun, and exhilarating way to get fit.
Daily Spiritual Rituals
We've all known people who, despite the challenges and stresses they face in their daily lives, manage to project calmness and serenity that belie the surrounding maelstrom. Have you ever wondered how they achieve such tranquility?
We've all known people who, despite the challenges and stresses they face in their daily lives, manage to project calmness and serenity that belie the surrounding maelstrom. Have you ever wondered how they achieve such tranquility?
Work Those Hips
The human body is an intricate system of processes that work synergistically. Much like a work of art whose composition must be balanced to be pleasing to the eye, our muscles need to be in equilibrium to reach maximum potential.
The human body is an intricate system of processes that work synergistically. Much like a work of art whose composition must be balanced to be pleasing to the eye, our muscles need to be in equilibrium to reach maximum potential.
Worrying Ourselves to Death
Have you ever tried counting your worries? While drafting this article I managed to squeeze in worries about my gobbled-down breakfast, my half-baked plans for the rest of the day, and what I can do to ease pain in various aching body parts-to name but a few ever-nagging worries.
Have you ever tried counting your worries? While drafting this article I managed to squeeze in worries about my gobbled-down breakfast, my half-baked plans for the rest of the day, and what I can do to ease pain in various aching body parts-to name but a few ever-nagging worries.
Silken Laumann's Active Kids Movement
Where have all the children gone? That's what former Olympic rower and motivational speaker, Silken Laumann wondered when she took her children to the park. Kids weren't playing road hockey or riding bikes or playing all the fun games she recalled from her own childhood in Mississauga, Ontario.
Where have all the children gone? That's what former Olympic rower and motivational speaker, Silken Laumann wondered when she took her children to the park. Kids weren't playing road hockey or riding bikes or playing all the fun games she recalled from her own childhood in Mississauga, Ontario.
Thrills on Horseback
Exactly how fit do you need to be to ride a horse? For anyone who has ever watched English riders in stretchy breeches and fitted jackets ride in unison with their horses or who has gaped at a horse and rider fly over a set of jumps the answer is-very.
Exactly how fit do you need to be to ride a horse? For anyone who has ever watched English riders in stretchy breeches and fitted jackets ride in unison with their horses or who has gaped at a horse and rider fly over a set of jumps the answer is-very.
Four Regular Guys (in Tuxedos)
A taxi pulls into the gravel parking lot of Calgary's Edworthy Park on a hot June afternoon. As children spin on the roundabout, four handsome young men in tuxedos wait to get into the cab. Although they're overdressed for this casual setting, Giorgio Armani would agree that his formal wear looks good anywhere.
A taxi pulls into the gravel parking lot of Calgary's Edworthy Park on a hot June afternoon. As children spin on the roundabout, four handsome young men in tuxedos wait to get into the cab. Although they're overdressed for this casual setting, Giorgio Armani would agree that his formal wear looks good anywhere.
Building a Health Reserve
Hoping to be a healthy elder? Then stock your health bank as faithfully as your financial one. Healthy aging requires preparation. This month's Research Watch discusses what you need to know to build up your health reserves for a long and healthy life.
Hoping to be a healthy elder? Then stock your health bank as faithfully as your financial one. Healthy aging requires preparation. This month's Research Watch discusses what you need to know to build up your health reserves for a long and healthy life.
The Sandwich Generation
When Naz Deravian became a mom for the first time, she found herself embracing her new baby girl, Luna, and her new role, with utter joy. But the 36-year-old actor was also worried about her own mom, who at the time was undergoing treatment for breast cancer.
When Naz Deravian became a mom for the first time, she found herself embracing her new baby girl, Luna, and her new role, with utter joy. But the 36-year-old actor was also worried about her own mom, who at the time was undergoing treatment for breast cancer.
Let the Happy Times Roll
Josh Jackson grew up with unusual nurseryrhymes: "Nuts and bolts, we've been screwed! Call the cops, we've been robbed! Jackson learned this song from his mother when he started bowling at age three. The song acknowledges a player who just knocked down all the pins except the corner one.
Josh Jackson grew up with unusual nurseryrhymes: "Nuts and bolts, we've been screwed! Call the cops, we've been robbed! Jackson learned this song from his mother when he started bowling at age three. The song acknowledges a player who just knocked down all the pins except the corner one.
Falls and Fun
Kerplunk. It's a sound you will surely hear within moments of your first attempt at windsurfing.
Kerplunk. It's a sound you will surely hear within moments of your first attempt at windsurfing.
Stand Up to Back Pain
Most back and neck pain is not the result of an isolated injury but of ongoing stress. Our spines and back muscles work together to hold us up, but we must care for them to avoid strains, sprains, and soreness. Here are five strategies for banishing back pain, safely and naturally.
Most back and neck pain is not the result of an isolated injury but of ongoing stress. Our spines and back muscles work together to hold us up, but we must care for them to avoid strains, sprains, and soreness. Here are five strategies for banishing back pain, safely and naturally.
Spotlight on Diabetes
Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in Canada and affects approximately 5 percent of the population. According to Statistics Canada, rates are significantly higher in the eastern provinces.
Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in Canada and affects approximately 5 percent of the population. According to Statistics Canada, rates are significantly higher in the eastern provinces.
Goodbye Treadmill, Hello Waves
Every morning millions of wave worshippers around the world wake at sunrise to scout the ocean-searching for that perfect break, for that ultimate rush, for the chance to become one with the awesome power of the sea.
Every morning millions of wave worshippers around the world wake at sunrise to scout the ocean-searching for that perfect break, for that ultimate rush, for the chance to become one with the awesome power of the sea.
Soluble Fibre
To your body, all carbohydrates equal sugar, so you may wonder, "If food turns into sugar in our bodies anyway, why are refined sugar and white flour so bad?
To your body, all carbohydrates equal sugar, so you may wonder, "If food turns into sugar in our bodies anyway, why are refined sugar and white flour so bad?
Cheap Winter Thrills
With the bracing chill of winter in the air and several inches of inviting fresh powder on your local ski hill, global warming may seem like a distant memory. Unfortunately, cashing in your paycheque for shiny new winter sports equipment won't stop those polar ice caps from melting.
With the bracing chill of winter in the air and several inches of inviting fresh powder on your local ski hill, global warming may seem like a distant memory. Unfortunately, cashing in your paycheque for shiny new winter sports equipment won't stop those polar ice caps from melting.
Seasonal Stress-Busting
The holiday season can be a time of comfort and joy, but it can also be a time of stress as we cope with overeating, overspending, traffic jams, holiday travel, office parties, and family dramas.
The holiday season can be a time of comfort and joy, but it can also be a time of stress as we cope with overeating, overspending, traffic jams, holiday travel, office parties, and family dramas.
Hungry for Comfort
We all love comfort foods; those flavours that can take us back to simpler times when stress was something that only happened to others. Comfort food cravings are hard to resist, especially after working through a hard day or making it through a difficult situation.
We all love comfort foods; those flavours that can take us back to simpler times when stress was something that only happened to others. Comfort food cravings are hard to resist, especially after working through a hard day or making it through a difficult situation.
The Obesity Epidemic
Excessive body fat accumulates when we take in more calories than we expend. But the expanding North American waistline is caused by a complex relationship between environment and genes. This month Research Watch explores the causes of the obesity epidemic.
Excessive body fat accumulates when we take in more calories than we expend. But the expanding North American waistline is caused by a complex relationship between environment and genes. This month Research Watch explores the causes of the obesity epidemic.
Losing Weight
The New Year kicks off with parties presenting irresistible desserts, delicious eggnog, and those tasty little appetizers that are so hard to refuse! With the alcohol flowing and office or family gatherings happening all around you, temptation is at an all-time high.
The New Year kicks off with parties presenting irresistible desserts, delicious eggnog, and those tasty little appetizers that are so hard to refuse! With the alcohol flowing and office or family gatherings happening all around you, temptation is at an all-time high.
New Year's Workout
Change is one of those words that often evokes powerful emotions, both scary and exciting, all at once. Change can mean different things to different people, but come New Year's, the number-one change that most people try to implement in their lives is better health and fitness.
Change is one of those words that often evokes powerful emotions, both scary and exciting, all at once. Change can mean different things to different people, but come New Year's, the number-one change that most people try to implement in their lives is better health and fitness.
Dear Diary
It all started with Harper's Bazaar. I'm not a regular reader, but whenever I pick up a copy I'm always amused by the "Eating Diaries, wherein three slender and well-dressed women recount their daily food intake and exercise regimes.
It all started with Harper's Bazaar. I'm not a regular reader, but whenever I pick up a copy I'm always amused by the "Eating Diaries, wherein three slender and well-dressed women recount their daily food intake and exercise regimes.
Deal Out Cancer
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, about 40 percent of women and nearly 45 percent of men in this country will face a personal battle with this fearful disease.
According to the Canadian Cancer Society, about 40 percent of women and nearly 45 percent of men in this country will face a personal battle with this fearful disease.
This Might Save Your Life
"I'm going to call an ambulance, I told my patient, a woman in her early 50s. She knew that something was wrong, but I knew she wasn't convinced that her symptoms were serious. Most women, and many men, aren't aware of the more subtle signs of a heart attack.
"I'm going to call an ambulance, I told my patient, a woman in her early 50s. She knew that something was wrong, but I knew she wasn't convinced that her symptoms were serious. Most women, and many men, aren't aware of the more subtle signs of a heart attack.
Varicose Veins
I was sitting and chatting with my friend Tania, when she suddenly interrupted me. "You shouldn't sit like that you know, she said, pointing at my crossed legs. "You're going to give yourself varicose veins.
I was sitting and chatting with my friend Tania, when she suddenly interrupted me. "You shouldn't sit like that you know, she said, pointing at my crossed legs. "You're going to give yourself varicose veins.
Caregiver's Thrive Guide
Relieving stress helps you stay healthy as a caregiver—because if you’re not taking good care of yourself, you can’t take good care of others.
Relieving stress helps you stay healthy as a caregiver—because if you’re not taking good care of yourself, you can’t take good care of others.
Stress Less
Many Canadians suffer from stress. It’s the root cause of numerous health challenges we experience. Finding ways to reduce stress is essential to improve our health and our quality of life.
Many Canadians suffer from stress. It’s the root cause of numerous health challenges we experience. Finding ways to reduce stress is essential to improve our health and our quality of life.
Let’s Talk About SEX...
We can talk about sex, but with increased rates of low libido, are people actually “doing it”?
We can talk about sex, but with increased rates of low libido, are people actually “doing it”?
Get Active!
Here is a simple guide to help you get and stay on the exercise track so that you can reap the many benefits of physical activity.
Here is a simple guide to help you get and stay on the exercise track so that you can reap the many benefits of physical activity.
Vacation Without the Spread
Vacations are often a time to kick back, soak up the rays, and unfortunately, sometimes gain weight. When you’re on a tropical cruise or frolicking between cafés in Provence, it’s much too easy to forget about your commitment to a healthy lifestyle and just give in to your new surroundings.
Vacations are often a time to kick back, soak up the rays, and unfortunately, sometimes gain weight. When you’re on a tropical cruise or frolicking between cafés in Provence, it’s much too easy to forget about your commitment to a healthy lifestyle and just give in to your new surroundings.
Carb Balancing Act
Making headlines today is something called the GI diet—a carb balancing act recommended by the Canadian Diabetes Association and the World Health Organization.
Making headlines today is something called the GI diet—a carb balancing act recommended by the Canadian Diabetes Association and the World Health Organization.
Overcoming common barriers to getting active
Sometimes the reasons people cite for being inactive are just excuses, but research also tells us that there are barriers to physical activity that many of us face across the country.
Sometimes the reasons people cite for being inactive are just excuses, but research also tells us that there are barriers to physical activity that many of us face across the country.
