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www.bonnlaw.ca Serving the Quinte Area since 1972.

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The walls have come down, and the expansion is complete. Sigrid’s Natural Foods is proud to support our local growers and producers, now offering local meats and dairy (pick up your Limestone Creamery Products here), locally grown farm fresh produce in season, an increased grocery line and more. One-stop shopping for all your health care needs and groceries.

Owner, Mathew Baccari and his professional, knowledgeable staff have supplied their customers with a variety of services and products for over 30 years. With this new expansion, Sigrid’s Natural Foods promotes eating local and buying local to support the future of our communities.

“We would like to thank our customers for their patronage over the years, and welcome everyone to come grow with us.”

Stirling

Stirling Dental Centre

9B Tuftsville Rd.

613-395-2800

www.drdougsmith.com

Caring for your family’s

dental healthBelleville

Bridge Street Dental Centre

208 Bridge St. East

613-966-2777

6

publisher

Many of my fondest memories were made in Prince Edward County. My sister would load up her little red car with a beach blanket, picnic basket and umbrella, and have us to the beach in an hour flat.

My sister would sit in the sun reading, or listening to the radio, tanning with oil, while I (the fair-skinned sibling) would be under the umbrella lathered with SPF 60 (wave diving was counted in tens of minutes, not hours, for which now I’m grateful).

I clearly remember mom shuffling me into the shower when we returned home, and then sliding into line-dried crisp, white cotton sheets. There’s nothing quite like an active, post-beach day slumber. Nothing.

Growing up, my love for the beach and water hasn’t wavered. Before leaving for school, most weekends would see a convoy of cars filled with friends en route for the day.

As working adults, we’ve had girls’ weekends in the County. Some of us coming in from Toronto, and some local, all meeting for a weekend to catch-up, have some much deserved fun, and then head back to our responsibilities and demanding careers.

Now, as a mother, the boys experience the same joy and luxury of having West Lake and Sandbanks so close to home. My personal Zen is the beach – it brings me calm and clarity in this busy world. Good food, soothing sounds, active good times and warm, sunny weather. What could possibly be better? In addition to dedicating this issue to the simple joys of summer: sand, sun, swim and strength, we have some great stories dedicated to on-trend fitness options, local food and mindfulness – a very interesting take on stepping back from our urban environment.

One story in particular is a lesson in never giving up: A Journey through the Art of Circus will inspire. It teaches us not only to be grateful for what we have, but it reminds us to live every day in the moment.

A local, healthy lifestyle read that’s perfect for (you guessed it), a day at the beach.

Enjoy all this summer has to offer.

healthy living now is published quarterly by LoLa Communications.

www.hlnow.ca

All rights reserved. No reproduction in any form is permitted without written permission of the Publisher. Material contained in this publication is intended to be of informational and educational interest. If you have medical condition, seek the advice, supervision and assistance of a qualified health care professional. Views and information expressed in editorials, articles and advertising are solely those of the individuals and professionals providing them, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher or affi l iates, and as such, the Publisher wil l not assume the responsibil ity for loss or damage arising, directly or indirectly, from the content provided.

Publisher l Editor

Print Design

Web Designer

Copy Editor

Dr. David Suzuki

Dr. Kristina Bennett

Dr. Natasha Turner, ND

Dr. Michelle Durkin, ND

Madeleine Marentette

Kristian Bonn

Liz Grant

Sharon Harrison

Alexandria Barker

Lara Kelly

Barb Marshall

Crystal Shea

Lori Mitchell

Nicole Lucas

Meg Lyons

Sharon Harrison

Dyan Perry

Jacquie Blanchette

Douglas Lafreniere

Monica Hemstock

Erin Ball

Dianne Dowling

Crystal Shea

Michael Peddlesden

Dawn Golloher

Andrew Mitchell

Cindy Fougere

AdvertisingBay of Quinte & Greater Kingston

Lori Mitchell 613.920.1232

hlnpublisher@cogeco.ca

Contributors

Photography ContributionsGreg Teal

Sonya Siemens

Madeleine Marentette

Summertime is formaking memories.

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wellness

8sandbanks zenbeyond the beach: finding solitude among the dunes

10love crystalsattract more love with the power of crystals

11naturopathic doctorsbeing proactive with your health

food

15dr. natasha turner, ndas seen on dr. oz

tips to reduce insulin and banish belly fat

17holly ray farmsjoin the revolution. save the planet. eat healthy. be happy

19water balancemeasuring body sweat and liquid balance

eco

24dr. david suzukimicrobeads: a sign of our plastic consumer madness

27gardeningperennials. why all the hype about daylilies

28forest bathingenergy medicine meets the big church

fitness

30take it to the beachhigh intensity interval training on location with jacquie

32journey through the art of circustrapeze, aerial hoop, flexibility, fabric arts, hoopdance, aerial yoga

36local scuba divingeastern ontario, home to some of the world’s best freshwater wreck diving

features

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“For we make our own paradise, imagine it or build it. And sometimes find it waiting for us in nearby Prince Edward County, in the magic dunes.”

– Al Purdy

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wellness

SandbanksBeyond the beach: finding solitude among the dunes

Written by Sharon Harrison

Created some 12,000 years ago from the receding glaciers of the last ice age, Prince Edward County is home to Sandbanks Provincial Park. The magnificent park boasts masses of white sand, with beaches stretching for many kilometres. The three main beaches of Dunes Beach, Outlet Beach and Sandbanks Beach rival many in Canada, and at seven kilometres in length, it can boast having the largest freshwater baymouth barrier dune formation in the world. With warm shallow sparkling waters, unique sand formations, expansive beaches and a wealth of plant, bird and animal life, this natural wonder is the finest example of nature’s paradise.

Whether it’s to visit for a few hours or to camp for a few weeks, the park offers a wealth of activities including hiking, biking, canoeing, windsurfing, fishing, sailboarding, swimming, kayaking, wakeboarding and volleyball, and it also provides an array of special summer programming to keep its many visitors occupied.

In one of the most beautiful natural environments you will ever find, how do you find solitude amidst the noise? With over half a million visitors each year, Sandbanks can get a little boisterous. A day at the beach usually means hoards of people, excited screaming children, and a playful carefree time. There is noise, bouncing balls, flying discs, tantrums, but mostly it a time with lots of fun and laughter. But sometimes we need to find the quiet in our minds; we need to interrupt the chatter. It is easy enough to remove yourself from the distractions to find a quiet corner in the park’s vast 3,700 acres. With so much space to play in, it is entirely possible to seek out a deserted bay or cove, or a little patch of shaded grass. What better way to discover the quiet alternative of a day at the beach than to look beyond the beach.

But what can an isolated section of the park offer? Sitting on the warm sand, close your eyes and listen to the gentle motion of waves lapping to shore. Be mindful of the moment as the swishing grains of sand are gently moved by the water. Try to be present and aware of the tranquil surroundings as it brings a feeling of calmness and relaxation. Feel the breeze around you, the hot sun on your face, and the richness of the environment. Look up at the cloud formations as you try to decipher the shapes and outlines and what they may mean.

Let the sand slip through your fingers, and feel its warmth as the soft granules tumble over your hands, or look for colourful pebbles, beach glass or an interesting shell. Playing in the sand can bring joyful relaxation, where something as simple as building a sandcastle can clear and settle the mind. Climb the giant dunes and you’ll feel like the king of the castle: let your feet sink into the deep warm sand as you scale the towering hills. Be aware of each step, the challenge of balance as you attempt to climb yet sink deeper into its softness. County poet, the late Al Purdy sums it up perfectly: “The dunes were white bonfires in sunlight, Lake Ontario a wide expanse of blue where horizons melted into the sky.”

Find a rock pool and watch its occupants swim around in circles as they navigate their temporary confined home. It can be a

fascinating and soothing experience, and it is easy to be transfixed by the observation. If you are looking for a spiritual experience, find some stones and build a small inukshuk. On a still day, stand up paddling can be very relaxing as the board glides almost effortlessly across the still water. For something different, sit or lie on the board letting it drift, or try some yoga positions. If there’s a breeze, go fly a kite. You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy this classic pastime as colourful streamers leap and dance, soaring high into the air where there is nothing between the sand at your feet and the big blue sky above.

Why not try outdoor yoga where the sights and sounds of the serene surroundings enhance the relaxing elements of each movement. You may find a small group of people spontaneously performing tai chi: the gentle and graceful moves of this mesmerizing ancient art form are calming and powerful.

What better way to end the day by enjoying a spectacular County sunset. Find a rock and sit and watch the sun go down as its bounces and reflects its glorious colours across the surface of the lake. Mr. Purdy said it best: “At night under moonlight, the dunes whispering, it seems as close to paradise as the human mind can imagine.”

Sandbanks Provincial Park is located at 3004 County Road 12, south-west of the town of Picton in Prince Edward County. From Picton, take County Road 32, and follow County Road 12 into the park. For further information visit: www.ontarioparks.com/park/sandbanks

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wellness

Love is one thing we can all use more of, and you can become a magnet to it easily. By awakening the power of crystals with your focus and intention, you can create the kind of relationships you truly desire.

Rose quartz is my favourite stone for love. Inexpensive and abundantly available, it can encourage self-love, draw new love to you, or deepen existing relationships.

There are several ways to work with it. Put a piece under your bed to attract new love or renew existing love relationships, depending on your intention. You can also put some in the relationship corner of your home, the farthest right rear corner from the front door.

I love wearing a heart-shaped rose quartz pendant, so my heart chakra is continually bathed with the beautiful energy of this loving stone. And speaking of bathing, you can place a few rose quartz stones in your bath and literally submerge yourself in this loving gentle energy. It’s a wonderful stone to hold while doing your affirmations, and carry or wear it throughout your day to remind you of your intentions.

Rose quartz is the most important stone for healing both the physical heart and the heart chakra. The heart chakra is the chakra of love, compassion, devotion and generosity. A healthy heart chakra enables you to love deeply, fills you with gratitude to be alive and the desire to give back. The more open it is, the greater your capacity for love.Rose quartz is the crystal of peace and unconditional love. It opens the heart, teaching the true meaning of love, and brings deep healing and self-love. Its calm, reassuring energy makes it ideal to use for traumas or crisis.

Attract More LoveThe Power of Crystals

Written by Alexandria Barker

From a Law of Attraction perspective, rose quartz is a great stone to work with because it promotes self-love. This is very important because without self-acceptance, you won’t have much success attracting the things you really want, including loving relationships, because you won’t think you deserve them.

Before you begin working with rose quartz, it’s important to cleanse it of any negative energy it may have picked up. Simply hold it in your left hand and cover it with your right, imagine the room you’re in being filled with white healing light from the universe, and ask that your stone be cleansed with it. Then, take time to get to know your crystal by holding it in the palm of your hand and asking to be connected with its highest energy. Ask it to work with you for the highest good of all for whatever purpose you choose (attracting self-love, a new mate, or renewed love with your present partner).

Is it any wonder it’s my favourite stone for love? Try it and watch your love life soar!

www.AlexandriaBarker.com or call 613-475-3867 to book your personal crystal therapy session.

Contact Reiki Master/Life Enhancement Coach Alexandria Barker at 613.475.3867www.alexandriabarker.com

Reiki relieves pain and stress, boosting creativity and intuition while it heals your body, mind & spirit.

Revive with Reiki today!I offer treatments as well as a powerful Reiki Training certificate program.

Experience the relaxation of Reiki!

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wellness

How Naturopathic Doctors Are Proactive with your HealthImportant Blood Tests Your Doctor Won’t Run

Written by Michelle Durkin, ND.

I often hear the complaint in my office, “Why doesn’t my doctor check this in my blood?” What patients don’t understand is the medical system is a reactive health care system. They wait until there is a problem, or for a disease to occur before any action is taken.

Unfortunately for patients, there is a large grey area between optimal health and pathological disease. This is the area where naturopathic doctors excel. This grey area is where a lot of functional problems can occur in the body before anything pathological develops.

Here are five important blood tests that can be done to check if a functional problem exists:

Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c): This is a marker of how well your blood sugar has been controlled over the last three months. The higher this number, the more often your blood sugar is too high and attaching to tissue proteins. An abnormality is an early warning sign of diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and even cancer.

Highly sensitive C reactive protein (hs-CRP): This is a marker of inflammation that is particularly specific for the cardiovascular system. The higher this number, the more likely the incidence of a heart attack. This number will also be increased with food allergies, and chronic infections in the teeth.

Gamma gutamyl transferase (GGT): This is one of your liver enzymes and will be elevated when your body has a high exposure to toxins. If this number is low, you could have a deficiency in your ability to detoxify, as well as a B6 deficiency.

Ferritin: This is your body’s storage of iron. This number will decrease long before your hemoglobin will decrease, so it is an early warning sign of anemia. If this number is too high, it can correlate with inflammation in the body.

Vitamin D: This is one of the most common vitamin deficiencies in Canada. Low levels will increase your risk of inflammation, auto-immune disease, depression, and hormone imbalances, to name a few.

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Join the Eat Real Food Academy - This is an online community of hard-working, health-conscious individuals and families who want more for their health... more energy... better sleep... optimal body weight... and MORE.eatrealfoodacademy.com

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products new&nowEau Thermale Avène – Thermal Spring WaterCalm your skin, quench its thirst, rehydrate and rejuvenate with this soothing mist. Perfect for dry skin when travelling, as well as minor skin irritations and mild sunburns. Suitable for all skin types.

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Kiehl’s – Skin Tone Correcting & Beautifying BB Cream (with SPF 50 & Vitamin C)This tinted BB cream is the ultimate multi-functional must-have; it will even out the look of your skin tone, conceal blemishes and imperfections, minimize fine lines and pores, hydrate your skin and provide protection from harmful UV rays.

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washbeautyco – “Back to Basics Duo” Konjac spongesMade from 100% natural Konjac root fibres, these eco-friendly and sustainable cleansing sponges exfoliate your skin by just adding water (plus your preferred cleanser – optional). The “Back to Basics Duo” pack includes one original Konjac sponge for all skin types, everyday use and one bamboo charcoal Konjac sponge for oily/combination skin or a weekly detox.

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Kérastase – Micro-Voile Protecteur from the “Soleil” collectionDon’t forget to protect your locks this summer from sun damage and photo-degradation caused by UV rays.Visit kerastase.ca to find a retailer near you

Triangle – Poppy Flamingo Fling BikiniLive colourfully this summer in candy pink and neon pastel green neoprene.

Available at triangle.com

TKees – Sunkissed from the “Splatter” collectionTKees are a summertime essential! These limited edition, one-of-a-kind, uniquely splattered flip-flops are the product of an inspirational story born at the crossroads of where dreams meet reality and where love and belief collide. Many more styles to choose from.

Available at tkees.com

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products new&nowBanana Republic – Straw FedoraEnsure your headwear is on point this season with a trendy straw hat!Visit bananarepublic.ca to find a retailer near you

FitBit® – Surge in TangerineThe newest fitness super watch complete with GPS Tracking, PurePulse™ Heart Rate monitoring, All-Day Activity tracking, Multi-Sport performance measurement, as well as syncing, alarms and other smartwatch capabilities. The mobile app and desktop dashboard provide you with detailed results and reports to help you track, maintain and improve your healthy lifestyle.

Visit fitbit.com to find a retailer near you

Coravin™ – Coravin™ 1000 Wine Access SystemEnjoy your favourite wines by the glass - without even pulling the cork - all while preserving freshness, preventing oxidization and allowing each bottle to continue aging naturally. This revolutionary system is a must-have for all wine lovers and connoisseurs alike.

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HBC Collection – Hudson’s Bay Company Beach TowelRepresent our Canadian heritage at the beach with a HBC Signature stripe beach towel. Be sure to tag your photos featuring HBC Collection on social media with #StripeSpotting

Visit thebay.com to find a retailer near you

Weber® – Genesis® E-330™ grill in Classic BlackRelease your inner Grill Master with the right grill from Weber®! The Genesis® E-330™ includes centre-mounted thermometer, enclosed storage for tank with fuel-gauge, three steel burners, a side burner, as well as porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates and Flavourizer bars.

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Navdy – Portable HUD (Head-Up Display)This new tech product is taking navigation to the next level with its tiny projector that transmits driving directions onto a transparent screen right in your field of view. Controlling it is a snap; simply use voice commands and hand gestures. Compatible with iOS and Android.

To pre-order visit navdy.com

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Empowerment - Recovery – Wellness: Chronic stress affects all our body systems and interferes with lifeTherapy Programs: Interpersonal Neurobiology combines recent brain research & mindfulnessInnovative practices offer new choices for resilience and expansiveness.Horse Play - for the Health of It! Horses don’t judge - they Listen. Interconnectedness is a gentle path to experience fully who you are, who you want to become and move toward balance and vitality.Trauma resolution: Anxiety, depression, injuries, car accidents, pain, grief, PTSD.Stress Navigation Tension Release

If the thought of the weather getting warmer and clothing options getting lighter has you dreading the change in temperature, you aren’t alone. Hormones influence not only how much body fat you have, but also where you carry it. If your trouble areas are your love handles, then you can be certain that your insulin levels are too high. Too much insulin not only encourages your body to store unused glucose as fat, but also blocks the use of stored fat as an energy source — a double whammy for any waistline. Implement the following suggestions to reduce your insulin in as little as three days to six months.

Have a blueberry smoothie–reduce insulin by 22 percent:Could eating blueberries help get rid of belly fat? According to a ground breaking study published in the Journal of Nutrition, a daily dose of the bioactive ingredients from blueberries also increases sensitivity to insulin, and may reduce the risk of developing diabetes in at-risk individuals. Researchers discovered that obese, non-diabetic and insulin-resistant participants who consumed a blueberry smoothie daily for six weeks, experienced a 22 percent change in insulin sensitivity, compared to only 4.9 percent in the placebo group.

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Take 4000 IU vitamin D – improve insulin balance in six months:The sunshine vitamin can help you get a better midriff, not to mention boost your hormones. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition, showed women who were given a daily dose of 4,000 IU of vitamin D3 showed improvements in their insulin resistance after six months of supplementation. You may wish to have your blood level of vitamin D3 tested by your doctor at some point; the participants whose vitamin D levels reached 119 nmol/L had the biggest improvements. This is not surprising to me – an optimal blood value of 125 nmol/L is ideal for insulin balance and carb sensitivity.

Add one teaspoon of cinnamon – improve insulin balance in 20 days:Just a little cinnamon in your smoothie can go a long way towards balancing your insulin levels. Just a teaspoon a day for 20 days is enough to improve your insulin response and lower blood sugar by up to 20 percent. A research group from the Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center found that cinnamon reduced blood sugar, total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in subjects with type-2 diabetes after just 40 days of consuming one to six grams per day.

food

Seven Tips to Reduce Insulin and Banish Belly FatWritten by Dr. Natasha Turner, ND

Have a tablespoon of nuts – improve insulin balance by 30 percent: A prospective cohort study of women found that the frequency of nut consumption had a substantial and highly significant inverse association with risk of type-2 diabetes. The reduction in risk of developing type-2 diabetes was 30 percent lower in those consuming nuts five or more times per week and 20 percent lower in those consuming nuts one to four times a week compared to those who almost never ate nuts. I recommend having nuts (almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts – simply vary it) as a fat source once daily.

Take zinc daily – improve insulin balance in eight days:Zinc is involved in more than 200 enzymes in the body – it is also one of the most common mineral deficiencies I find in clinical practice. According to a study published in American Physiological Society, rats who were fed a zinc deficient diet demonstrated a peripheral resistance to insulin within just eight days of feeding. A quick way to detect a zinc deficiency is to crush a zinc tablet to powder and mix with a quarter of a cup of water. Slosh the mixture around in your mouth but don’t swallow. People who notice no taste at all or who notice a mineral-type taste are likely to be deficient in zinc. Those who notice a strong, unpleasant taste are not likely to be deficient in this mineral. Dosage is 15 mg to 25 mg a day with food.

Get active – improve insulin balance in three days:Three days of being a coach potato will not only drop your mood and make you feel lethargic, it will have a dramatic effect on insulin sensitivity. One study took a young healthy population that averaged 12,956 steps a day and reduced their activity to 4,319 steps a day (as measured by a pedometer and confirmed with an accelerometer). This simple change resulted in a 30 percent drop in insulin sensitivity and reduced glucose response. It definitely pays to get active daily, and for an even faster transformation, be sure to include 30 minutes of strength training three times a week.

Snack on tart cherries – improve insulin balance in 90 days:Researchers have found that tart cherries have significant health benefits in animal models, including reduced belly fat. In the study, rats that received whole tart cherry powder mixed into a high-fat diet didn’t gain as much weight or build up as much body fat as rats that didn’t receive cherries. And their blood showed much lower levels of molecules that indicate the kind of inflammation that has been linked to heart disease and diabetes. In addition, they had significantly lower blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides than their counterparts. As an added bonus, these berries are high in melatonin and can improve your slumber. Add them to your smoothie or enjoy a snack with half a cup of Greek yogurt, a quarter of a cup of tart cherries and a tablespoon of nuts mixed together.

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food eat local

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food

Holly Ray Farms’ MissionJoin the Revolution. Save the planet. Eat Healthy. Be Happy.

Written by Lara Kelly

TIM DAVIDSONHEARINGSERVICES

TIM DAVIDSONHEARINGSERVICESCarrying on Tim's name with pride.

Registered ADP, WSIB, DVA

� Local Family Owned� Latest in Technology� Blue Tooth Products Available� No Hidden Fees or Contracts

� Home Visits Available� Hearing testing availableand performed by aHearing Instrument Specialist

Bay View Mall | 470 Dundas Street East | Belleville

t: 613.966.6653 tollfree: 1.866.608.9990

Email: tdhearingservice@gmail.com

3 Local Family Owned3 Latest in Technology3 Blue Tooth Products Available

3 Home Visits Available3 No Hidden Fees or Contracts3 Hearing tests

Open

SaturdayEmail: tdhearingservice@gmail.com

Bay View Mall | 470 Dundas Street East | Belleville

t: 613.966.6653 | toll free: 1.866.608.9990

A European friend of my husband’s recently shared the following observation: “My biggest surprise in moving to Canada was discovering how terrible the food quality is here. No wonder so many Canadians are sick and overweight.”

We’ve all experienced the disappointment. Biting into a beautiful peach only to find it mealy and tasteless. Salad greens with a strange, plastic taste and rubbery texture, topped with pale, bland tomatoes. These are the products of an industrialized food system of conventionally grown mono-crop foods, shipped from thousands of miles away. And they dominate the food in the supermarkets.

But increasingly, there is an alternative. The last decade has seen a renaissance of small scale, local, organic farms offering Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs to Canadians tired of disappointment, and seeking a direct connection to their food source. CSA customers receive a weekly box of fresh, locally grown organic produce.At Holly Ray Farms, we believe joining a CSA program is a fun way to support your local community, while finding joy in delicious, nutritious, organically grown food.

A CSA program makes it easy to walk a healthier path. By choosing organically grown produce from our farm, you’ll know your food isn’t contaminated with pesticides

or herbicides. And because your veggies are harvested within 24 hours of you receiving it, it’s as fresh as it gets. Many of our customers have told us that their weekly CSA box helped them form new and lasting healthy eating habits.

Everyone loves family farms. Children’s books teach of farm animals and vegetables, all in an idyllic pastoral scene. Yet most of today’s farms are nothing like this imagery. They are typically large, specialized factories that ship their food products vast distances. However, the “new” model of CSA, directly connecting customer to farmer with no middlemen, enables small-scale, diversified farms to thrive. Joining a CSA program not

only reduces your environmental footprint, but also keeps the small-scale family farm, a vital part of Canada’s heritage and community, enduring into the future.

Lastly, CSA is just plain fun! Our customers tell us that each box is like a surprise gift, exciting for the whole family. We provide weekly recipes and food tips, educational updates and tales of our farming adventures. And our CSA members are welcome to visit the farm, and even help out.Community focused, environmentally sustainable, healthy and fun – CSA programs offer great value for Canadians.www.hollyrayfarms.com

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Breakfast, Lunch, Desserts and Take Away Meals.

Cookies, Tarts, Squares & more!

Come join us for Brunch on SundaysFeaturing Eggs Benedict.

Summer hours:Wednesday & Saturday8:00 am to 4:00 pmFriday & SaturdaySunday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Large groups please call ahead.

11 Concession St. SouthTamworth, ON 613.379.2972

Genetically Modified Foods. It was recently announced in both Canada and the United States that a Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) apple has been developed and approved for sale. The apple does not brown when exposed to the air. Do we really need this? The long-term effects of GMO food in North America are not really understood. In Europe, GMO foods are banned. In North America, crop yields have not increased, nor have farmers’ incomes. GMO foods do not have to be labelled in North America. The health food industry is trying to change that and proudly displays Non-GMO labels on their foods. The next time you buy fresh or packaged food, look for the Non-GMO symbol.

3 Dundas St East, Unit #3Napanee, Ontario K7R 1M4

613-308-9332www.synergy-gallery.com

Expressions of CreativityA gallery of artistic hand-crafted works

united by Fire, Water, Earth & Air

Artistic Creations by Canadian and Fair Trade Artisans

Pottery ~ Jewelry ~ Lamps Scarves ~ Crystals ~ Local Artists

Stained Glass ~ Incense and Resins Wood and Metal Wares

Candles and Candle Accessories Gourmet Treats and so much more

Synergy will be opening our “Dragons Den” in May

hosting various workshops, lectures and presentations,

on a myriad of topics ranging from arts and crafts, to lectures on energy and health, crystals, and hands-on

workshops for all ages.

Visit our website for a full list of scheduled events and presenters and sign up for email notifications.

Synergy Artisan Gallery is also the flagship location

for the full line of

100% Pure Beeswax Candles and Bee Products

~ Emit Negative Ions~ Non-Allergenic / Non-Toxic

~Safe for sensitive people and for pets~Long-burning / Economical

Visit purebeeworks.comfor product information & health benefits

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food

Water BalanceWritten by Andrew Mitchell

People sweat and it is just one of the many things that our bodies do to keep us from overheating. On hot days, it can be effortless to break into a sweat. Sweat is a natural occurrence that happens to everyone. Being afraid of sweat is akin to feeling trepidation toward air conditioning; they both serve the same purpose.

A determined athlete can produce ten litres of sweat, just sweat, in a single day. Someone leaning more toward the lethargic side of the scale may not even produce one litre. Between one and ten litres does seem like obnoxious oodles of liquid

seeping through our pores regardless of our level of activity. The moisture leaving our body throughout the day is in such small quantities that our core body temperature helps evaporate the sweat before we notice. When we do notice, we tend to wipe it off our forehead or use a towel.

If your craving for the summer heat is insatiable, or your summer enthusiasm is physically demanding, remember to replenish what you exert. When deciding on a hydration nectar, bear in mind the less burdensome it is for our body to absorb the faster we see reactions.

However, replenishing your body’s liquids does not need to happen all at once. Overhydration is one of those things that can creep up on you if you are not careful. If you start to get dizzy or marginally nauseous while drinking, stop, take a break, and let your body catch up.

The excessive consumption of liquid can lead to liver, kidney and heart issues. Play it safe, and take everything in moderation, especially those heatwaves.

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What are Organic Pesticides? The debate around organic pesticides arises from loose definitions. Organic advocates are talking about synthetic toxic pesticides that are prohibited in organic production. But opponents broaden the definition to include all the natural things that can be used to control pests, such as diatomaceous earth, a natural seashell powder used to control insects by physical damage, not by chemical poisoning. There is a world of difference here. Yes, improper use of these products can be harmful. Improper use of a tractor can also be harmful, yet tractors are allowed in organic production. In short, the comparison of pesticides is a distraction.

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Sunrays Holistic Health near Kingston is known to help people find natural solutions to address their health, wellness and weight management. As certified Holistic Wellness Coaches, Deborah and Paul introduced the successful program called IN.FORM, which is brand new to Canada. IN.FORM is a 13-week group session that gets you on track with your health to BURN FAT-BE FIT-FOR LIFE. One patient who visited Sunrays for the first time in January 2015 with various health issues: insomnia, overabundance of yeast, overweight, hot flashes, acid reflux, gallstones, said, “With a recommended herbal program and the holistic approach with IN.FORM, I was able to sleep again through the night, my acid reflux disappeared, I lost 20 pounds in three months, my hot flashes were only minimal and I feel great.

eco

Are you concerned about food and farm issues such as soil depletion, climate change, displacement of farmers, water contamination and illnesses? What about the use of use of pesticides, hormones, genetically modified organisms and other new technologies?

You are not alone. Small and medium-sized family farmers from around the globe —members of La Via Campesina (LVC) — met in February in Mali to address these very issues. The outcome is a Declaration of the International Forum for Agroecology. It lays out the pillars on which agroecology is built —including access to the commons, peer-to-peer learning, community self-governance and respect for the knowledge, values, vision and leadership of women.

The production practices of agroecology (such as intercropping, traditional fishing and mobile pastoralism, integrating crops, trees, livestock and fish, manuring, compost, local seeds and animal

breeds) are based on ecological principles such as building life in the soil, recycling nutrients, the dynamic management of biodiversity and energy conservation at all scales. These practices drastically reduce our use of externally-purchased inputs.

The declaration includes a long list of strategies to work toward agroecology, through knowledge sharing, recognition of the central role of women, building local economies, building alliances and adapting to climate change.

In 2007, LVC wrote its food sovereignty declaration, to assert the principles of a just food and farm system. Agroecology is a necessary component of food sovereignty, the right of peoples to healthy and culturally appropriate food produced through ecologically sound and sustainable methods, and their right to define their own food and agriculture systems.

Healing Our Food and Farm SystemFamily Farmers from around the Globe Unite

Written by Dianne Dowling, President, Local 316, National Farmers’ Union (Kingston, Frontenac and Lennox-Addington Counties)

National Farmers’ Union is a founding member of LVC, an alliance of organizations and international movements of small-scale food producers and consumers, including peasants, indigenous peoples and communities (together with hunters and gatherers), family farmers, rural workers, herders and pastoralists, fisherfolk and urban people. Together, the people represented by LVC produce 70 percent of the food consumed by humanity. They are the primary global investors in agriculture, as well as the primary providers of jobs and livelihoods in the world.

The full text of the agroecology declaration can be found at www.viacampesina.org (go to “sustainable peasants agriculture” under the “main issues” menu).

The full text of the food sovereignty declaration is also at the LVC website (go to “food sovereignty and trade” under the “main issues” menu and search for Nyeleni 2007).

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eco

The focus of our Farm to Table pages is to promote and support eating local, and buying local. Articles from expert sources will promote local agriculture, growers, farmers, suppliers, manufacturers, and services that keep our farming community thriving. Our ultimate goal is to build a sustainable infrastructure, and secure a local food supply for the future of our communities. Our farmers and producers have the potential to expand, and to supply an increasing customer demand.

We all win. Eating local is healthier, safer and benefits all of us.

Knuckle Down Farm is a small-scale organic market garden sitting on a quiet back-channel of the Trent River. We grow over fifty varieties of vegetables, herbs, and flowers with care and individual attention. Our CSA veggie shares provide fresh, delicious, organic produce all summer while connecting members with the place their food is grown and the farmers who grow it. You can also find us at the Campbellford and Dufferin Grove farmers’ markets. Farmer Jenny started Knuckle Down Farm in 2012 and moved to Quinte West in 2014. She’s joined this year by Farmer Kate, a baby, and a crew of friends and family.

Sweetening your life one spoonful at a time! The Cooper family has been keeping bees for three generations, and the fourth is beginning to learn the trade. Their 5 million bees visit more millions of flowers to supply a wildflower mix of honey to the local communities. What sets Ivyridge honey apart is the processing; Ivyridge honey is filtered, not pasteurized, producing a raw natural honey. Taste the difference!

The work with the bees begins in April and continues until fall. Ivyridge offers a variety of products from the hive. Honey, beeswax candles, comb and creamed honey are available. Purchase locally at Picton Sobey’s, Grill’s Orchards and Campbell’s Orchard near Belleville, Empire Cheese in Campbellford.

Gilmour’s Meat Shop and Deli has become a familiar, dependable supplier of local and all Canadian meat for their customers in the Quinte area over the past 18 years.

Wyatt Whitehead owns the family operation and boasts that he only supplies “top of the line” meat products, offering custom cutting, custom orders, quality and professional service in his modern facility.

The full service deli offers in-house catering for any function as well as a full line of groceries, local farm fresh produce in season and much more.

“We are proud to promote eat local and buy local, we all benefit”

Farm to Table

Secure a Future for

Food in our Communities

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Kupecz Family Farm has ethically raised lamb, eggs, chicken and turkey for a holiday feast, or any special occasion.

Attention is placed on having a happy animal, grown in a sustainable way without drugs, chemicals or other mass production techniques.

Nature’s way is the most sound and pleasing way.

eco

McCormick’s Heritage Meats

Join us for an exciting 2015 season.

Starting in May, the Campbellford Farmers’ Market returns where we will be barbecuing delicious pork and other treats on Saturday mornings.

For more information and updates, please visit our Facebook page.

Every day the sun rises on your property - we help maintain it and make your landscaping dreams a reality. Sunrise Landscaping is proud to be a family-owned business servicing local customers from Port Hope to Kingston for the past 6 years.

Property maintenance is their primary focus. A licensed arbourist is on staff to offer professional advice and share expert knowledge. Organic/natural products and applications are available for every job.

Other services include excavations, cement/stonework, decking, fencing, ponds, pools, custom designs, wet basement repairs and more. No job is too large or small. Call for estimates and references. We do it right.

Summer is here and we are excited to help you with your next project. Whether you’re renovating, building, decorating or anything in-between, we have what you’re looking for.

If we don’t have it in stock, we will get it for you. We value our customers greatly. We will special order just about anything for you to turn your great ideas into reality.

Visit us for pricing, ideas, and all your project needs.www.rashotte.ca

Clean with “The Incredible KD Cloth”

The Incredible KD Cloth cleans virtually anything in your house without chemicals - never buy window cleaner again. The special threads is an ultra fine microfibre which removes 97% of bacteria.

Cleans and polishes windows, mirrors, windshields, glass - all hard surfaces, leaving a streak free, spot free, lint free finish using no chemicals or paper towels. TV screens, computers, stainless steel - without scratches. The one-step process cuts cleaning time in half, just wet it, wring it and wipe any surface.

See us at the Hastings County Plowing Match, August 19-20th, on Callaghan Road!

Tired of viruses and pop-ups? We have the solution! Charles is the Ubuntu expert in the Quinte area, doing what he loves, making computers work properly. It has been his passion and career for over 20 years.

Home Computer also ships products worldwide. We have the lowest prices anywhere, quality products and personal service. We have a large inventory of more than 500 Laptops and Desktops. We carry all Apple products: iPhones, iMacs and MacBooks. We are famous for our ability to set-up computers in less than 15 minutes at a very low cost of only $20!

Want your computer to work properly without annoyances? Bring it in and we will make it work for you. Home Computer 613.967.9895 101Blessington Road, 2 miles north of Belleville, ON www.homecomputer101.com

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eco

How much are whiter teeth and smoother skin worth to you? Are they worth the water and fish in the Great Lakes? The cormorants that nest along the shore? The coral reefs that provide refuge and habitat for so much ocean life? Are they worth the oceans that give us half the oxygen we breathe, or the myriad other creatures the seas support?

If you use personal care products such as exfoliators, body scrubs and toothpastes containing microbeads, those are the costs you could be paying. The tiny bits of plastic — less than five millimetres in diameter, and usually from one-third to one millimetre — are used as scrubbing agents. Now they’re turning up everywhere, especially in oceans, lakes and along shorelines. They are not biodegradable.

Research by the 5 Gyres Institute found an average of 43,000 beads per square kilometre in the Great Lakes, with concentrations averaging 466,000 near cities. Tests on fish from Lake Erie found an average of 20 pieces of plastic in medium-sized fish and eight in small fish. Cormorants, which eat fish, had an average of 44 pieces of plastic each. Microplastics have been found in the oceans and even under Arctic sea ice. Scientists at Australia’s James Cook University found corals starving after eating the tiny beads, their digestive systems blocked.

MicrobeadsA sign of our plastic consumer madness

Written by Dr. David Suzuki with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Senior Editor, Ian Hanington

Going green has never been easier. Be inspired at greenquinte.comGoing green has never been easier. Be inspired at greenquinte.com

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eco

It’s not just the plastic that harms animals; the beads absorb toxic chemicals, making them poisonous to any creature that mistakes them for food or that eats another that has ingested the plastic — all the way up the food chain. Because humans eat fish and other animals, these toxins can end up in our bodies, where they can alter hormones and cause other health problems.

It’s a high price to pay for limited benefits from unnecessary personal care products. Exfoliators and scrubs can use any number of harmless natural ingredients, including baking soda, oatmeal, ground seeds, sea salt and even coffee grounds. Microbeads are not only pointless in toothpaste; they can be harmful. Dentists and hygienists are finding plastic particles embedded under people’s gum lines, which can cause inflammation and infection.

The folly of producing and marketing products without adequate regulatory oversight and consideration of long-term consequences makes you shake your head. As Great Lakes study researcher Sherri Mason told the Ottawa Citizen, producers haven’t given much thought to anything beyond the fact that the beads wouldn’t clog drains. “There wasn’t that forethought, which is often the trouble with man and the environment,” she said.

Microbeads illustrate the excesses of marketing and consumerism, but they’re only part of the problem. Most plastics eventually break down into microparticles, often ending up in oceans and other waters, where they’re eaten by organisms ranging from tiny plankton to large whales. Some plastic has even started to fuse with rocks, creating a substance new to our planet that scientists call “plastiglomerate”.

According to British Antarctic Survey scientist David Barnes, “One of the most ubiquitous and long-lasting recent changes to the surface of our planet is the accumulation and fragmentation of plastics.”

That’s astounding, considering mass production and widespread use of synthetic, mostly petroleum-based plastics only began in the 1940s. Barnes and other researchers who compiled research from around the world say more plastic was produced in the first decade of this century than in the entire previous hundred years.

Microbeads are among the newer developments in the brief history of our plastic lifestyle. The 5 Gyres Institute launched a campaign asking companies to remove them from products. So far, L’Oreal, The Body Shop, Colgate-Palmolive, Unilever, Johnson & Johnson and Procter & Gamble have agreed to do so. Several US states and European

countries are planning to ban the beads, and Environment Canada is studying the problem. The federal NDP has introduced a motion to ban them here.

As consumers, we can avoid products containing microbeads and put pressure on companies and governments to end their use (5 Gyres has an online petition). And, because more than a third of all plastic is disposable packaging, such as bags and bottles, we can and must limit our overall use, and reuse or recycle any that we do use.

Plastic has made life more convenient, but many of us remember a time when we got along fine without it.

www.bluedot.ca

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gardening“It was such a pleasure to sink one’s hands into the warm earth, to feel at one’s fingertips the possibilities of the new season.” – Kate Morton.

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gardening

Daylilies are easycare and one of the best perennials for both the home and the cottage landscape.

The daylily (Hemerocallis) is an incredibly versatile flower, and they don’t attract pests and are mostly disease resistant. They will grow quite happily in most soil types, and once established are drought tolerant. Other than the old-fashioned orange ditch daylily ’Fulva’, most daylilies on the market are classified as hybrid daylilies and form a neat clump. They only need dividing every 8-10 years, or when they have outgrown their spot. Planting can be done at anytime between spring and early fall, and ideally on an overcast day or later in the day is ideal. Avoid planting in August, as the weather is usually too hot and dry.

Daylilies love the sun, but they can tolerate an east exposure, providing they receive a minimum of six hours of sunlight. They also grow happily alongside our other speciality, hostas. Daylilies combine well with other easy-to-grow perennials, such as Cone flower, Sedum, Coreopsis and non-spreading grasses.

The foliage of daylilies is also neat and attractive, and they range in height from 10 inches to 4 feet, with bloom diameter ranging from 1.5 inches to 12 inches or more. The blooms also come in various forms, such as doubles, spiders, and some have fragrance, such as ‘Stella d’oro’ and ‘Happy Returns’. The newest long blooming daylily available is ‘Endless Heart’ which starts earlier and lasts longer that ‘Stella d’oro’. Other long blooming varieties I recommend are: ‘When my Sweetheart Returns’, ‘Red Hot Returns’, ‘Early Snow’, ‘Fragrant Treasure’ and ’Mini Pearl’. We also specialize in rebloomers, where blooms can last from mid-June until well into the fall. Blooming periods are classified as extra early, early, mid-season to late-season. Some other favourites are ‘Primal Scream’, ‘Lakeside Effect’, ‘Mardi Gras Parade’, ‘Pizza Crust’, ‘Royal Braid’ and ‘Blackthorne’. My personal daylily collection now exceeds 900 plus varieties, and one of my favourites is one I named ‘Donwood’ in 2007, to celebrate 10 years in business. You can also choose a variety for a special occasion, such as ‘Wedding Band’, ‘Special Moment’, ‘Jamaican Me Crazy’, ‘Going Banana’s’, ‘Ava’ and ‘Calgary Stampede’.

Perennials Why all the hype about daylilies?

Written by Dawn Golloher

The only colour missing from the daylily palette is a true blue and a pure white, but you have the choice of almost every colour and combination in the rainbow. With a great selection of solid colours to choose from, the unusual features of edges, eyes and watermarks almost go unnoticed.

Have fun and happy gardening!

Sign up for a workshop, or drop in and view the collection of 600+ varieties until July 31st. The gardens are open daily (closed on Tuesdays) and admission is free. For further information visit info@gardensplus.ca, or call 705-742-5918.

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Forest bathing has nothing to do with taking a bath in water. The term forest bathing is a translation from Shinrin-yoku, coined in 1982 by the Forest Agency of Japan. This program was developed to address the growing number of Japanese workers who were suffering intense stress and serious health issues from the demanding work-life rooted in the culture. The agency along with the Japanese government created a wellness initiative that promoted trips to the country’s well-established bamboo forests to promote relaxation, meditation and rejuvenation. These experiences would help to shift a work-culture causing an alarming number of young people to collapse and even die from early heart attacks. The campaign caught on, and now three decades later, it is catching on around the world.

Forest bathing is a concept that is not just about taking a relaxing walk in the park, but revolves around the power to heal through breath work, meditation, negative ions and the natural environment that benefits our health and well-being when immersed in all of the above. However, the North American population is trending towards the urban lifestyle. We are trading in nature for high-rises and underground shopping malls, and it is creating new stress levels and illnesses, many caused by the continuous bombardment of radio waves on our brain and our natural biorhythm. There is lots of scientific research from all over the world that has emerged in the last two decades to support that radio waves not only affects our brain activity, but also affects our nervous system, biorhythm, and hence our overall well-being.

A forest is not just a pretty thing.

It is the second Kingdom amongst the mineral, animal, human and soul Kingdoms.

We must learn not only to protect this life-giving resource, as it is truly Royal,

But to appreciate it as Mother Nature’s Holy Apothecary,A magical place to go to renew our weary Spirit.

– Madeleine Marentette

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mindfulness

What is biorhythm? It is the acknowledgment of natural cycles within nature. This includes man and our physical, emotional and mental cycles over a period of a day, a week, a month, a season or a year. As we are nature, which we often forget, we are subject to the laws of nature; to the natural ebb and flow of life, which means constant changes within our body. These changes occur subtly and naturally with or without our influence. However, with the introduction of Wi-Fi into modern-day life, we have a new influence to deal with, especially for those who are computer-screen and technology-addicted. Most people are not consciously aware of these unseen radio waves or what effect they have on the brain or nervous system. However, more and more people are starting to question their feelings of unrest, sleeplessness, irritation and even depression.

When we step away from our urban environment and literally take a breather, turn off our cell phone, go to the country, a trip to the cottage or park, we move away from the effect of radio waves on our brain and nervous system and immediately will feel a greater sense of calm, peace and well-being. We’ve all experienced this. Neuroscientists are discovering the keys to optimal brain health and happiness and it’s quite simple; we need more nature in our life. Ironically, we have mastered the art of how to control and decimate nature for the advancement of technology, wealth, power, and consumer gluttony. It’s time for a paradigm shift by understanding our inter-connected oneness with nature and campaigning for it. We can

benefit immensely from enhancing our commitment to protect nature, and integrate the healing sustenance of forests, water, minerals and animals into our daily life. Everyone wins.

So what can you do to turn all of this around? The goal is to bathe yourself; your mind and every cell of your body into the essence of the forest. This is not a power-hike, but a mindful and quiet walk into any surrounding that has a lot of trees. Breathe deeply being mindful not to entertain stressful thoughts that enter the mind, but to rather allow yourself to open your eyes and allow the surroundings of the forest embrace you and bring you to the present. Stop along the path when catches your attention. Ponder on its creation. Breathe in deep the aromatherapy of the forest. Let your lungs take in the healing effect of negative ions. Reacquaint with nature and be inspired by all of her beauty from micro to macro. Connect with Mother Nature’s own biorhythm, observing the cycle of life within the plant kingdom, the birds and the forest animals. Contemplate where you are at within your own cycle of life. Perhaps you will birth something new within yourself; a new appreciation for continuous self-care, your health and longevity, and a new appreciation for Mother Nature and your inter-connectedness with her.

If you want to go deeper, take off your shoes, walk barefoot (another trend called ‘Barefoot Healing’), and remember what it is to be a kid again, carefree and unencumbered by rules or the burdens of adult responsibilities. Plan a picnic, grab a blanket and find the perfect hidden grove to lie down on. Maybe even take

in a nap if you can allow yourself to do so. You may recall that whenever you’ve done this in the past, perhaps on a beach while on vacation, when you rose up you might have felt an unusual sense of well-being, like being a little tipsy. Here’s why... the earth surrounds and protects all living things with a natural frequency pulsation of 7.83 Hertz which the ancient Indian Rishis called OM. This frequency is what gets disturbed by the constant bombardment of radio waves we talked about earlier. When you lie down on the grass, sand or forest floor, you get a big dose of grounding energy-medicine; a healthy shot that balances your nervous system, creating calm and that rarely found feeling of bliss, well worth the trip into the woods.

So perhaps next time you pass by a forest, you will look at her differently. Plan a weekly or at least a monthly trip to and enter the gates of ‘The Big Church’ – an ancient religion entwined within many cultures past, who knew of her magical powers and her promise to calm our mind and biorhythm, recharge our electro-magnetic body, and renew our weary spirit, and expect nothing in return. ~ OM!

“The Earth has been surrounding and protecting all living things

with a natural frequency pulsation of 7.83 Hertz which the ancient Indian Rishis called OM.”

Schumann Resonance Project 1952 - W.O.Schumann, German

Physicist and Professor of the Technical University of Munich

Forest BathingEnergy Medicine meets The Big Church

Written by Madeleine Marentette, Founder of Grails Springs Resort, Bancroft

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Jacquie Blanchette is a fitness and lifestyle coach who believes one of the greatest joys in life is movement and is passionate about enriching people’s lives through strength. After working in the fitness industry for over 15 years she feels fortunate to have found a home for her boutique gym in Rossmore where she’s surrounded by a fantastic community of people that inspire her every day. She has a BA in Sociology, a diploma in Fitness & Health Promotion and is currently certified in personal training, indoor cycling, fitness kick-boxing and kettlebell foundations. Outside of the gym she can be found running, hiking, or biking local trails- or better yet local wine routes! Jacquie can be reached through her website at bodyshopxco.com.

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Work hard and play hard in the sand with this Cardio & Core HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) workout. Exercising in the sand can give you a mega bang for your buck while offering a lower impact workout than running on pavement, gravel or even grass. Soft sand can challenge the muscles of your ankles, hips and even arms through a fuller range of motion therefore requiring more energy and burning more calories. Just beware, doing too much too soon, especially barefoot, may aggravate plantar fasciitis, achilles injuries or ankle sprains. So ease into it and, as always, check with your doctor before making any big changes to your physical activity program. For even less impact on your joints, you could perform the cardio exercises in the water.

Set a timer for a work phase and a rest phase. Beginners can try 30 seconds on and 30 seconds off, intermediates can aim for 40 seconds on and 20 seconds off while advanced can go for 50 seconds on and 10 seconds off. Perform one cardio exercise and then one core exercise until all six exercises are complete; this is round one. Aim for 3-4 rounds. Be sure to warm up with a nice 5-10 minute walk or jog on the beach.

HIIT the Beach this Summer!(HIIT = high intensity interval training)

Written by Jacquie Blanchette Photography by Greg Teal

Skater Jumps (Cardio): Take long bounding jumps side-to-side as if you were speed skating. Start with your feet together, and then push off from your right foot as you take a big leap to the left. Land on your left foot first, followed by your right and repeat by jumping to the right. Great for those glutes!

Plank Walks (Core): Start in a push-up position with arms straight. Bend your right elbow down to the ground, followed by your left. Straighten up your right arm and come up onto your right hand, followed by your left. Alternate sides. The key to making this move really effective is to keep your entire core tight without letting your hips rock side to side.

Long Jumps (Cardio): Start with your feet hip width apart then bend your knees, bring your arms behind you and take big jump forward as your arms swing to help propel you as far as you can. Land on your feet in the soft sand with bent knees. Turn around and repeat.

Bicycle Crunches (Core): Lay on your back, crunch your right shoulder off the ground and angle it towards you left knee as it bends in and the right leg straightens. Keep your shoulders off the ground and rotate to the other side, angling your left shoulder towards your right knee as your left leg straightens. Be sure to let your head relax back into your hands so your neck doesn’t strain forward.

Lunge Jumps (Cardio): Start in a lunge position with your right foot forward and your knee bent to about a 90 degree angle. Your left foot is behind with toes tucked under and heel lifted. Jump up from both feet. In the air switch your left foot forward and your right foot back. Land with both feet at the same time in the soft sand with knees bent to cushion the landing. Always make sure your knees and toes are pointing in the same direction, and never let your front knee extend too far past your front toe. Most of the weight on the front foot should be balanced between your heel and the base of the toes, rather than putting all the weight onto your toes – this can stress your knee.

Alternate Arm/Leg Lift (Core): Lay on your belly with your core engaged. Your neck and spine should stay aligned, so avoid straining your head to look up. Lengthen and lift your right arm and left leg off the ground as your chest lifts as well. Repeat by lifting your left arm and right leg.

Cool down and stretch with yoga poses.

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fitness

A Journey through the Art of Circus A life discovery of exceptional strength,

determination and hopeWritten by Sharon Harrison Photography by Sonya Siemens

Imagine being able

to dress in funky outfits

and wear sparkly make-up

whenever you feel like it. Imagine getting

to do the thing you love the most in life for a living.

Imagine being able to fly through the air whenever the whim took you. Or hang upside down, just because. Meet Erin Ball: circus fanatic, lover of movement, and an incredibly inspirational 35-year-old with a fierce determination and drive for her craft, and for life.

Many of us dream about running away with the circus, but few of us

actually take the step. Erin didn’t run away

to the circus, but instead she

created her very own circus. For Erin, the first seed was sown eight year ago when she visited the Kingston Buskers Rendezvous. She knew then she wanted to do something similar with her life. There was a need to perform. A need to fly. Erin started out teaching yoga, so her interest of circus arts was a natural progression. She studied and learned all she could, completing the Fitness and Lifestyle Management program at Toronto’s George Brown College. She is trained to teach trapeze, aerial hoop, flexibility, fabric arts, hoopdance and aerial yoga, as well as yoga and Pilates. As the founder and owner of Kingston Circus Arts, Erin runs her own studio where she teaches, trains and performs.

But what exactly is circus arts? Think reams of bright colourful fabric, high ceilings and lots of rigging. It is aerial acrobatics meets gymnastics meets dance. It is about the performer as much as the performance; the idea of creating graceful floating movement while gliding through the air. It is a fusion of disciplines, a combination of physically impressive acrobatic movements and contortion. It is about creativity, exploration, strength and stamina, where both mental and physical technique is paramount.

Fabric is the artist’s tool in circus arts. The strong nylon tricot is used as a hanging tool as it is manipulated and used in conjunction with the body to perform a beautiful blend of movements and striking poses. The

fabric is wrapped around the body where it is used as a harness to swing, suspend, spin and swivel, propelling a spiralling body into its next move. Factor in a hoop, and things get a little more interesting.

If you ask Erin why she performs circus arts, she’ll tell you movement is her life and she was meant to do this, and although it’s a cliché, it’s her passion. And her purpose. It’s her desire to push performative boundaries, finding her flexibility, endorsing her strengths, and reaching new heights, both figuratively and literally. It is about challenging herself, challenging the art form, reaching and exceeding her personal goals.

What makes the story of Erin’s circus arts truly remarkable is Erin. She is one courageous and brave young woman, with a tenacious spirit. Most of us would find undertaking any kind of circus arts intimidating, but imagine attempting to return to a once-loved craft after having a bi-lateral below the knee amputation. Erin is now fitted with prosthetics, having lost the lower portion of both her legs to frostbite. She almost lost her life. She lay depressed in a hospital bed for almost a year with not much will to live. She almost gave up on life. To say this episode has been enormously life-altering for Erin is an understatement. It doesn’t begin to grasp the magnitude of her ordeal or the strength of character and courage she found in overcoming its many hurdles.

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fitness

Erin has been using her prosthetics for about four months, and is slowly regaining her independence and her autonomy. She found a reason to live, has a new level of acceptance, and is working hard to put her life back together. Erin has adapted her life, and she will continue to adapt, but most of all, she has rediscovered her talent and her craft, and her love of circus arts. She never imagined being able to get back to her circus.

You can hear the joy in Erin’s voice when she speaks about doing the thing she loves most in life. She says circus saved her life. Erin is learning to walk unaided, and managing the challenges of balance. Just a few weeks after having her new legs fitted, Erin undertook her first public outdoor performance using her prosthetics—a LED hoop floor performance in celebration of Earth Hour. She has purpose once again. She is setting goals, getting stronger, becoming more flexible. Many of her skills came back to her; her balance is improving, along with her core strength and her endurance.

According to Erin, anyone can do circus arts. Erin would know. Since her accident, she has a deeper respect for how she teaches and a richer understanding for the learning process. Erin has accomplished a tremendous amount in a very short time, and while it hasn’t happened as quickly as Erin would have liked, it is nonetheless remarkable how rapidly she has managed to return to her beloved circus environment. It

“We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.”

— Maya Angelou

even amazes Erin some days. It is about appreciating the little things she once took for granted, and being grateful for the small steps. And Erin is also grateful for her second chance not only at life, but at her circus arts.

No one should be intimated if they want to give circus arts a try. Erin is right: everybody can do it. You don’t need any prior experience or any special skills, and if you like the idea of becoming strong and bendy, or just fancy hanging upside down, give it a try. Whether you are big or little, short to tall, able-bodied or disabled, old or young, it doesn’t matter because anything is possible. Just ask Erin.

Kingston Circus Arts is located at 206 Concession Street, Kingston, Ontario, K7K 2B5. For further information, visit Kingston Circus Arts on Facebook, or contact Erin Ball at: kingstoncircusarts@gmail.com.

Erin Ball. Fierce determination,

drive for her craft, and for life

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Kinesiology is the science of human movement, and

scientists have clearly demonstrated that

human beings require daily physical activity

in order to maintain their health and well-

being. It’s in our genes! Paleolithic humans were hunter-gathers, and each

of us have these 10,000 year-old genes.

They were fundamental to our survival as a species.

This genetic code was crucial for storing fat in times of feast,

and reducing energy expenditure in times of famine. With no means to keep food safe for long term consumption, humans had to eat as much as possible when it was available. This triggered

their bodies to store energy as fat. When food was scarce,

humans could drop their resting metabolic rate and their overall energy expenditure in order to conserve energy until more food was found. Fast forward to today. Our modern day ecological system is calorie rich, contains many labour-saving devices and promotes sedentary behaviours over more physically active ones. Unfortunately, the combination leads

to increased incidence (number of times something happens) and

prevalence (the percentage of the population that is affected by a given health condition at a given time) of chronic diseases, such as

Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

In the past, humans hunted and gathered as part of a daily survival routine. Modern humans can ingest, in a matter of minutes, what our ancestors required probably two to three full days of continuous physical activity just to acquire. Add to this the effects of industrialization, computerization and labour- saving devices, and you have a “chronic disease tsunami.” In other words, eating calorie-dense fast foods and pre-processed foods, along with a steady increase of sedentary behaviours, such as television watching and video gaming, coupled with a significant decline in daily physical activity, and the results are catastrophically deadly. Scientific research reports that more than one-third of North American children are currently overweight or obese, and even more do not get enough daily physical activity for optimal health benefits and growth. Added to this is most adults do not meet the daily physical activity guidelines for people over the age of 18 years set out by the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP), and the long term health effects get even worse.

Exercise is MedicineGet your Dose of Daily Physical Activity

Written by Prof. Douglas Lafreniere, R.Kin., BPE, M.Sc., CSEP-CEP, ACSM-EIM3

fitness

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fitness

The CSEP has determined that we require 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity aerobic physical activity each week, (e.g. walking at a pace that makes you break into a light sweat, but allows you to continue a conversation with someone without becoming breathless), in bouts of 10 minutes or more, every day. It is also beneficial to overall health to add muscle and bone strengthening activities using major muscle groups, at least twice a week. More good news: the more physically active you are on a daily basis, the greater the health benefits. This means that increases in the amount of time beyond the minimum guidelines for Canadians your age and gender, gains additional health benefits.

The CSEP has clear guidelines for exercise intensity:1. Light Exercise Intensity = not causing adults to sweat and breathe harder. At this intensity you can easily carry out a conversation during physical activities like walking slowly on level ground.

2. Moderate Exercise Intensity = causing adults to sweat a little and breathe harder. At this intensity adults can carry on a conversation in short sentences. Examples would be brisk walking or moderately fast bike riding.

3. Vigorous Exercise Intensity = causing adults to sweat and be out of breath. It is difficult to have a conversation with someone if you are exercising at this intensity. Examples would be jogging at about 10 km/h or around 4 mph. Cross-country skiing, swimming continuous laps, or hiking on hilly terrain. It is also very important to add strength and resistance-type exercise to your routine. This type of physical activity makes your muscles work harder by adding resistance to a movement.

You should remember these two important facts. First, improving your level of fitness is more important than losing excess body weight. Second, daily physical activity is a very powerful medicine that depends on the frequency, intensity, time and type of exercise to determine the most appropriate dosage for you at any given age. If exercise was a pharmacopeia (a drug), it would be one of the most effective and safest ways of preventing and treating many chronic diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes, osteoporosis, anxiety disorders and depression.

The sad news is the trend towards more sedentary behaviours such as television watching, video gaming and computer use has not changed over the past ten years. In 2005, the Ontario Medical Association reported that, “we are now probably seeing the first generation of children who may not outlive their parents.” The trend of overweight and obese people in Canada has not changed, and has only steadily marched upward since then. Overweight children often become overweight teenagers, and overweight adolescents often become even more overweight as adults. Obesity itself is a significant risk factor for many chronic diseases.

Now some good news. The science of kinesiology has clearly demonstrated that people who are physically active on a daily basis, even though they are overweight or obese, have a significant reduction in all cause morbidity (chronic diseases) and mortality (death). Put another way, a daily dose of vigorous physical activity is as effective, or better, than most medications prescribed by your physician. These evidence-based facts are what the CSEP and the College of Family Physicians of Canada, along with other health care professionals, used to develop the Pan-Canadian movement called, “Exercise is Medicine Canada.” Visit our website at www.exerciseismedicine.ca.

Professor Douglas Lafreniere, along with his colleagues and students were principally responsible for the design and development of the “Gold Standard” for Personal Training Canada through the Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP). He was the inaugural Chair of the very first Certified Personal Training Technical Committee of the CSEP. Lafreniere’s applied research over the past 26 years focussed on Childhood Obesity intervention strategies. He is a Registered Kinesiologist and Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist. Recently retired from Loyalist College, he lives in Ameliasburgh with his wife Deborah Row.

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37

Scuba DivingQuinte Wreckreational Divers

Written by Michael Peddlesden, co-owner, Quinte Wreckreational Divers with Cheryl Peddlesden, PADI

(Professional Association of Dive Instructors) and Master Scuba Diver Trainer

fitness

The very words seem to conjure up images of macho, bare-chested men jumping into the abyss to do battle with some unknown entity out of a dime store novel. Some of you may remember the television series Sea Hunt starring Lloyd Bridges, or, for the Gen X group, Jacques Cousteau plying the world’s oceans in search of uncharted waters. Early scuba diving was the domain of young, healthy adventurous men with no women in sight. Women, teenagers, the middle-aged and special needs people need not apply. Back in the day, scuba diving involved months of training and drills before one could become certified as a diver.

Since very little was known about scuba diving and the effects of prolonged exposure to the pressures of water on the human body, only the very daring were willing to venture forward.

Most divers of that era (1950s – 1970s) were ex-military personnel, cobbling war surplus gear together to explore the world’s oceans. Training needed to be rigorous. Equipment was home-made and unreliable so accidents were par for the course. Divers need to be ready for any and all situations, from equipment failure to animal attacks.

Wow, how times have changed!

Today, you can become a fully trained and certified Open Water scuba diver in as little as two weekends. Training consists of one weekend of classroom and pool training, followed by one weekend of open water diving under the supervision of a dive instructor.

With the advancement of modern technologies, such as dive computers and modern materials, diving is safer and more comfortable than ever before.

And all that talk about only he-men can scuba dive has gone by the

wayside. Today, kids as young as 10 can become junior open water divers. There are also dive schools catering to people with physical disabilities, amputees, and seniors.This isn’t to say scuba diving is easy or doesn’t require any strength or endurance.

As we say “You have to be both mentally and physically well to dive well.” Scuba diving does not get you in shape; you have to be in shape to dive. Strength training is required to carry gear which can weigh up to 80 to 90 pounds. You also need to be fit aerobically to control your breathing underwater and not get winded. Studies have shown that scuba divers can burn up to 500 calories per dive. Two dives a day can equal close to 1,000 calories.

Diving can take place anywhere there is water; in a quarry, lake, river, sea or ocean.

We are fortunate to live in Eastern Ontario, home to the world’s best freshwater wreck diving. You can explore shipwrecks off the tip of Prince Edward County all the way past Cornwall.

Robert Osborne wrote about Prince Edward County in Scuba Diving Magazine “The north shore of Lake Ontario is a charming getaway, and perfect for divers seeking exceptional wreck diving.”

Scuba diving is a fun, active hobby that all members of the family can enjoy together. It promotes fitness, healthy living and environmental awareness.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get certified so you can start to enjoy the other 70 percent of our planet.

Quinte Wreckreational Divers of fers monthly scuba diving courses out of the Quinte Spor ts and Wellness Centre in Bel levi l le. www.qwdivers.com

Summer iS here.

Protect your eyes with sunglasses and update your

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38

CALL TO REGISTER TODAY 613-966-4632www.qSwC.CA

Summer Extravaganza CampsOffered for 10 weeks this summer!Preschool Camp: 3 & 4 yearsAdventure Camp: 5-7 yearsYouth Camp: 8-10 yearsVarious theme weeks to choose from: Nature, Inventors, Water, Art, Wild West, Science, Sports, etc. Sports Camps (ages 6-8 & 9-12)Soccer, Basketball, Multi-Sport Camps Water Sports Camps (ages 7-14)Snorkelling, Synchro, Canoe Kids, Water Polo, Underwater Sports Belleville Takes Broadway2-week, Art of Acting Camps at Pinnacle Playhouse Weekly Summer Activities (Grades 6-8 Students)Hunger Games, Games Show Mania, Sports & Fitness, Myth Busters, Backwoods Bound, Passport to Cooking Leadership CampsCertified Youth (ages 11-13)Youth Leadership Development (ages 14-16)(Leaders-In-Training) NEW!Sport & Fitness Training Camp (Ages 13-16)Led by a certified personal trainerJuly 20-24 OR August 17-21

CITY OF BELLEVILLE SUMMER CAMPSSUMMER FUn FOR AGES 3-16

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fine print

Every spring as the temperature climbs, more and more people hit the highways driving to cottages, camping and other getaways. Most passengers do not think twice about putting their feet up on the dashboard on long drives. This is a mistake. Having your feet up on the dashboard in an accident can result in severe and catastrophic injuries. In particular, when you put your feet up on the dashboard, if you are in a front end collision, the airbag can go off causing the damage. There is no question that airbags have been one of the most important safety developments for motor vehicles, saving thousands of lives and preventing catastrophic injuries. But at times airbags can maim and kill. Just ask Bethany Benson and her family and friends. The Toronto Star published Bethany’s story in the March 20, 2015 issue.

Just over five years ago, Bethany was the front seat passenger in her then-boyfriend’s 2002 Pontiac Sunfire. She was asleep with her feet stretched out up on the dashboard when her boyfriend crashed into the back of a stopped tractor-trailer. The passenger side airbag did what it’s designed to do and inflated cushioning the impending impact with the dashboard and windshield. The problem – her legs were in the way.

The airbag inflated at more than 300 km/h ramming her feet upwards and through the thick glass of the windshield, slamming her knees backwards into her face. Her left eye socket and left cheekbone were fractured. Her nose was broken. Her brain began bleeding. She suffered eight broken bones in her left foot and three broken bones in her right foot. She continues to wear a cast on her left foot because her bones did not heal properly.

She never saw it coming. She is quoted in the article, “I always used to put my feet up in a car, it’s easier on the back if you have your feet up. I never even thought that it could be so dangerous.”

There are no statistics about how many people are injured this way. Raynald Marchand, general manager of programs for the Canada Safety Council, says he hears about several cases each year. They usually happen in the summer when people are driving greater distances. As Mr. Marchand explains in the article, “Often they’re travelling on vacation, or to visit family, or to head to the cottage. Passengers will want to stretch their legs and put them up there (on the dashboard), not realizing the force at which the airbags will deploy in a collision.”

Bethany does not expect to recover completely, but she does want to use her experience to tell others about the dangers of putting your feet up on the dashboard.

“Now I see people doing it all the time and it just bothers me because they don’t know how dangerous it is,” she says. “I just want to scream at them, to tell them not to do it, because they might end up like me.”

A vehicle’s airbag is designed to save your life, but it can be very dangerous in a collision if occupants are not seated properly.

If the passenger’s feet are up on the dashboard, or perhaps resting one foot on the dashboard and the other out of the window, the results of a collision can be catastrophic.

Mr. Marchand explains that having feet on the dashboard is not the only risk from airbags in a collision. Luggage carried on the lap, including a dog or a cat, can be lethal as these objects are rammed into the passenger’s chest by the airbag.

Mr. Marchand cautions, “You’ll see people go to the hardware store as a couple, and then instead of putting the new coffeemaker in the trunk, the passenger puts the box on their lap and thinks, well, we’re not going far — just heading home. That will cause very serious pressure on the chest if there’s a collision.”

As the weather warms and the days get longer, more and more people will be heading out for long road trips. Be safe. Take Bethany’s story to heart. Don’t ride with your feet up on the dashboard. Avoid having anything in your lap while driving. These small inconveniences could prevent a lifetime of hardship, or possibly even death.

Summer Driving SafetyPreventing a lifetime of hardship

Written by Kristian Bonn, Personal Injury Lawyer, Bonn Law Office

40

Summer has arrived and what better time to get outside to enjoy some warm weather activities with your family. Dust off the bikes, pull out your running shoes and hit the road.

But wait, let’s do a safety check first.The equipment you wear while participating in sports and other activities is key to preventing injuries.

Equipment Maintenance is the first task. Take your bike in for an annual tune-up, so you know that all the working parts are safe. You may need to restring your tennis racquet, repair or replace worn baseball gloves and bats, road hockey sticks, etc. Accidents happen, but the right gear will put you ahead of the game.

Start with helmets: They are important in so many sports, such as football, hockey, baseball, cycling, skateboarding and skiing, to name a few. •alwayswearahelmetmadeforthe specific sport you are playing;•look for a sticker that says the helmet meets the safety standard set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) ; and•allhelmetsshouldfitsnuglyandnot be able to tilt backwards or forwards.

Eye Protection is a must for many sports:•themostprotectiveeyegearismade from plastic called polycarbonate and has been tested for sports use;•many facemasks or shields attach to the helmet and are worn in football, hockey, softball and baseball when batting;•Gogglesareoftenworn forsoccer, basketball, racquet sports and skiing; and •alleyeprotectionshouldfitsnuggly and have cushions above your eyebrows and nose to soften any direct blows to the face.

Mouth guards protect your mouth, teeth and tongue:•if you play any contact sport, a mouth guard should be worn;•mouthguardscanbefittedforyour mouth by a dentist or purchased at a sports store; and•if you wear a retainer, it should always be removed before putting in your mouth guard.

If you play certain sports, especially contact sports, pads are essential:•Thereareallkindsofpadstoprotect you from any direct blows, i.e. shin, knee elbow, wrist, chest, shoulder, hip and thigh pads.

Wear proper footwear for your specific sport or activity:•certain sports require very specific footwear, i.e. cycling, soccer, tennis, etc. If you are unsure, ask your coach, teacher or sports specialists what the best shoe is for your sport; and•replace shoes or cleats that have worn out or are no longer supportive.

Wearing the right equipment and having if fit properly dramatically deceases your chances of getting hurt. So get out there and enjoy the sports you love to play, but remember play safe!

Play It SafeStart summer activity on the right foot

Written by Liz Grant, BScPT, Co-Owner of Quinte Orthopaedics

family strategies

41

Easy Grade Transitions

Extended Care Available

Pre-Kindergarten (age 2.5 - 4)MORE AFFORDABLE THAN YOU THINK!

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$1000 on Clothes

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$900 on Lunches

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Albert College

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160 Dundas St. West, Belleville, Ont. 613-968-5726 | info@albertcollege.ca albertcollege.ca

Daily Transportation

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family strategies

Distinguishing Psychic ChildrenThe born-knowing awareness

Written by Monica Hemstock

Accessing higher-frequency awareness is a natural ability with which every child is born. All children are psychic or born-knowing. Although there is nothing new about children being born with psychic gifts, there is definitely a new awareness around these abilities and a greater acceptance of these gifts as being part of the ongoing spiritual awakening on our planet.

People seem to be getting more comfortable with the psychic issues that occur in their homes, and as the veil continues to thin, more of us feel an easy connection to our angels and spirit guides, as well as to our loved ones on the other side. As an angel medium, I am trained to distinguish psychic children as indigo, crystal and rainbow. However, I see that sometimes these categories can be misused as some strange kind of psychic elitism that creates separation rather than the unity consciousness we seek.

This is the case with all stereotyping, and we are all struggling with needing to use language to convey mysteries that defy description. We feel that if we have words for something, then it is real: “As children develop language skills, they acquire the prevalent belief that if it cannot be put into words, it is not real, or at least has no real value or relevance.” (Ken Carey) Categorizing psychic children only becomes problematic when it is misused – then it can result in a feeling of separation – the sense of separation we feel when we are deemed different.

Just as psychic adults, such as myself, have our specialties, so too do psychic children; hence the distinguishing features of indigo, crystal and rainbow kids. As a child, although I was clairvoyant (used third-eye vision) my psychic predominance was clairsentience. A clairsentient person has the ability to receive and to actually experience the physical

and emotional projections from other dimensions as well as this one. We can feel another’s pain, physically or otherwise.

For example, as a child, I was often visited by a woman in a long white nightgown of a bygone era. I felt her sadness as if it were my own. At the time, I was unable to help her move toward the light. This is one of the reasons I make myself available to counsel intuitive children and adults. I like to assist them to learn techniques of protection, so they do not mistake the feelings of others (living or dead) as their own, which can be overwhelming.

I also teach them how to assist any earthbound spirits they may come across, to move on. Ghosts (spirits) cannot cause us any physical harm. However, taking on their depression or other negative feelings is confusing because children have trouble distinguishing what is theirs to handle.

Not all children see angels, but it is a great idea to teach children everything there is to know about them. Angels sometimes manifest as coloured orbs which adults and children frequently notice. Allowing and encouraging your children to learn about angels is one of the greatest gifts you can give them.

True Self is a Divine Being www.awakeningspirit.ca

Rednersville Road & Hwy 62 www.thedressingroombelleville.ca

YMCA of Central East OntarioBelleville and Quinte Region

Belleville Branch433 Victoria Avenue

Belleville, Ontario K8N 2G1Tel. 613 966-9622 • Fax 6131 962-9247

City of Quinte West Branch50 Monogram Place

Trenton, Ontario K8V 5P8Tel. 613 394-9622 • Fax 613 394-8223

YMCA MembershipJoin today and enjoy all the benefi ts of

the YMCAALL NEW

Cross-Trainers, Treadmills with Personal Entertainment Systems

NEW Free Weights, NEW Selectorized Weight Machines, Fitness Classes and Aquafi t Classes and more changes coming in 2013

including:• 8 windows on the track level

• new gym fl ooring and basketball backboards

• rebuilt saunas• Membership Desk completely

redesigned• improvements made to the areas

leading to childcare• exterior painting and signage

upgrades

Exciting times ahead in 2013Join as a family; Adults receive all of the

above and children receive access to the YMCA plus

swim lessons and 2 dry land programs per 12 week session

For more information contact one of our Membership Branches or visit our

website www.ymcaofceo.ca

YMCA of Central East Ontario Belleville and Quinte Region

Belleville Branch433 Victoria Avenue

Belleville, Ontario K8N 2G1Tel. 613 966-9622

Fax 6131 962-9247

City of Quinte West Branch50 Monogram Place

Trenton, Ontario K8V 5P8Tel. 613 394-9622 Fax 613 394-8223

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For the Love of NatureWritten by Crystal Shea, Junior School Principal

family strategies

Learning about nature in the Albert College Junior School definitely extends well beyond the classroom. As part of our curriculum, we implement outdoor learning that introducing students to nature as a method to enhance overall development.

Albert College’s mission is to inspire our students to become leaders of character in what we define as the five A’s: Academics, Arts, Athletics, Active Citizenship and Adventure. Many of these components are further enhanced by extending the learning outside of the classroom.

Author, Richard Louv, refers to a nature deficit disorder in children today which contributes to a rise in obesity, attention difficulties and depression. It is disheartening to learn of such a disorder when schools can provide regular and meaningful experiences in nature for children. Exposing our students to a wide variety of outdoor learning activities, we are actively contributing to a child’s physical, emotional, intellectual and social development.

As young as age two and a half, our Early Primary Learning Centre students are frequent visitors to the Quinte Conservation Area, where they are encouraged to use their imagination while exploring nature.

Our Senior Kindergarten class enjoys weekly outdoor discovery time where they engage in thoughtful reflection and hands-on interaction with the environment. All students travel for day trips to public gardens and other destinations to supplement their classroom learning and develop lasting connections to the outdoor world. Junior students even have

the opportunity to camp. Curiosity is frequently piqued by natural surroundings which result in a desire to learn more thoroughly about a discovery back at home or at school. Indeed, such connections create a strong sense of stewardship toward the environment.

Each September the entire Junior School celebrates the life of a past student during Jamie PH Day. Activities include celebrating her life and enhancing the learning experiences for all Junior School students.

This September, we are welcoming Kawartha Turtle Rescue for a presentation and day of learning. The beautiful garden built in Jamie’s memory is an official Monach Butterfly way-station and the garden itself was constructed in the shape of a butterfly. Visitors are welcome to visit and enjoy the garden, located at the south east entrance of the Junior School.

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Compassionate care for the pet you care so much about.

Dr Kristina BennettDr Ashley Kirkham

213 Dundas St EBelleville

613-969-2273www.fosterparkpethospital.com

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pets

Think PinkScreening our Pets for Breast Cancer

Written by Dr. Kristina Bennett

Cancer awareness month just passed this spring, so let’s think about how cancer can affect our pets. Breast cancer, or mammary tumours, occur in our pets just as they do in people. Surprised? Here are some tips to protect your pet.

Home Screening Your Pet for Dog or Cat Breast CancerSince our dogs and cats cannot perform a “self-exam” like people can, it’s up to us to do it for them. Dogs and cats have a chain of mammary glands rather than just two breasts, so checking for lumps and bumps may take some time. Have your dog or cat lie on their side and gently massage each teat and the surrounding tissue. Note abnormalities that can range from smooth pea-sized growths to lumpy larger masses. Not all breast enlargements are tumours, so don’t be alarmed if you do feel something unusual. Nursing mothers or females in heat will have enlarged mammary tissue due to hormone associated changes. Also, overweight females may have fatty deposits in the mammary area.

Veterinary Screening for Breast CancerEven though not all lumps are tumours, if you do note anything suspicious, bring your pet in to see Dr. Bennett or Dr. Merkel for further assessment. They will palpate the mammary chain and record any abnormal lumps. Since it’s not always possible to rule out breast cancer by simply feeling the lump, they may take a sample from the mass and have it analyzed. Sampling may be as simple as a fine needle aspirate (FNA) in which cells are collected with a small needle and syringe while the pet is awake, or a biopsy may be performed in which a small portion of the mass is surgically removed under anesthesia. Depending on their impression of the mass, they may also elect to remove the entire mass without taking a sample first. Either way, portions of the mass are submitted for microscopic analysis to determine the nature of the breast tumour.

Dog and Cat Breast Cancer TreatmentDogs are luckier than cats when it comes to breast cancer. Only about 50 percent of mammary tumours are malignant in dogs, while approximately 90 percent are malignant in cats. Unfortunately, breast cancer can spread or metastasize to other areas of the body in both species.

Cats and dogs have 8 to 10 mammary glands or teats used to nurse several babies simultaneously. Multiple mammary glands are connected by blood vessels which make it easy for the tumours to spread from gland to gland. Since multiple glands may be affected, surgical removal may involve a large excision area. Your veterinarian may also advise further testing including blood work or radiographs to monitor the cancer’s potential spread to other organs. Radiation and chemotherapy are other options utilized to treat breast cancer in pets.

Dog and Cat Breast Cancer PreventionBreast cancer is a tragedy in people and in pets. One way to decrease the risk of breast cancer in dogs or cats is to have them spayed at an early age, preferably before their first heat cycle. Performing a complete ovario-hysterectomy (spay) includes removal of both ovaries and the uterus and reduces the incidence of mammary tumours in pets.

Heed the cautionary advice of human Cancer Awareness, and check your pet for unusual growths in the mammary area. Think pink to keep your pet’s future rosy.

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natural network

Hastings and Prince edward BrancH

Canadian Mental HealtH assoCiation,Hastings and PrinCe edward BranCH

41 oCtavia street, Belleville, ON • K8P 3P1

Tel: (613) 969-8874 • Fax: (613) 969-8294e-mail: ssidswOrTh@hasTiNgs-cmha.Org

Housing for Homeless & risk of Homelessness for individuals and families

anger management for men and Women

Wellness support group

depression support

return to Work Counselling and support

Hoarding support

support groups for family members

Providing ServiceS for our communitieS

Personal, Business and Corporate Tax services

Ask us about our bookkeeping services.

FAST, ACCURATE AND AFFORDABLE

TAX PREPARATION

Shirley French Tax Specialist

269 Front St, Downtown Belleville 613-771-9555

BERWICK NATURAL & ORGANICHomestead Organics: Organic seed & feed, farm & garden supplies, organic food store on site.1 Unions St., Berwick, ON; 613-984-0480;1-877-984-0480; www.homesteadorganics.ca

BellevilleHYPNOTHERAPYGrace Joubarne: Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, Toll Free: 1-888-390-3553; Ottawa & Belleville, ON; verifiable training and success! www.graceplacewellness.com

NATUROPATHICQuinte Naturopathic Centre: Dr. Michelle Durkin, BSc, ND: Naturopathic Medicine, Bowen Therapy, Nutrition, Acupuncture; Belleville, ON; www.quintenc.ca; 613-966-9660

CAMPBELLFORDGLUTEN-FREE/GRAIN-FREE BAKINGThe No Grainer Baker: An exciting New Cookbook by Ann Preston. Gluten Free/Grain Free recipes; ideal for celiac, high fibre, low carbohydrate and low sodium diets; for more info please visit www.thenograinerbaker.com

NATUROPATHICYour Family Naturopath: Dr. Andrea Bull, ND; 42 Front Street North; Campbellford, ON www.familynaturopath.com; 705-957-4226

COBOURGNATURAL/ORGANIC & WHOLE FOODSTNS Health Food: Vast variety of natural & specialty food; fresh organic meat, dairy, vegan, low carb, vitamins/minerals, gluten free foods & much more; 1-1060 Burnham Street, Cobourg; 905-373-6009; tnshealthfood@bellnet.ca

KINGSTONHEALTH CONSULTANT/PRACTITIONERNatural Solutions: Laurie White, RN for 28 years. Preventative Health Consultant. www.nikken.com/lauriewhite. For a complimentary consultation call 613-766-1699 or ljwhite@kos.net

HOMEOPATHYM.M. Townsend D.Ac, D.Hom: Homeopathic Medicine, Acupuncture, 25 years in Private Practice; Kingston, ON; Phone & Fax: 613-546-3967

MASSAGE THERAPYNew Horizons Therapy Centre: Massage Therapy with RMTs, Hot Stone Massage, Aqua Massage, Myofascial Therapy, Colonics, Gift Certificates; 525 MacDonnell St., Kingston, ON; 613-549-5975

NATURAL/ORGANIC & WHOLE FOODSTara Natural Foods: Celebrating 40 years in business! Organic fruits, vegetables, meat & poultry, organic milk, yogurt & cheese, vegan & gluten-free products, wild fish, vitamin supplements, probiotics & more! 81 Princess Street, Kingston, ON; 613-546-4439

VITAMINS & NATURAL SUPPLEMENTSGreen Door Vitamins: Large selection of health and nutritional products & services; 201 Wellington Street, Kingston, ON; 888-547-4584; www.greendoorvitamins.ca

Sigrid’s Natural Foods: Bulk foods, vitamins & herbs, gluten-free foods, body building supplements; for over 30 years; Kingston, ON; 6l3-384-1756

NAPANEEARTISAN GALLERYSynergy Artisan Gallery: Synergy Artisan Gallery presents the unique and dynamic work of dozens of talented artists and crafters, working within many medias; 3 Dundas St. Unit #3, Napanee, ON; 613-308-9332

WILTON/ODESSACHEESE FACTORYWilton Cheese Factory: Rennet-free; Cheddar & Variety Cheeses; no added preservatives; vegetarian friendly, Fresh Curds; Gift Boxes, Baskets & Gift Certificates; 287 Simmons Rd., RR2, Odessa, ON; www.wiltoncheese.ca; 613-386-7314

Join the local health and wellness movement. Booking

fall 2015 advertising now. hlnpublisher@cogeco.ca

HOME DECOR AND ACCESSORIES

400 FRONT STREET, BELLEVILLE! 613 -779-9996