livlifeA G U I D E T O H E A L T H A N D W E L L N E S S

S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

Child Food Allergies and Sensitivities

Depression or PMSAlzheimer’s - Early Detection

AFFINITY HEALTH WELLNESS RETREAT& SEA HORSE SPA

Two of the stellar, life-enhancing amenities at DeerFields Stables Country Inn are the Affinity Health WellnessRetreat and the Sea Horse Spa. Affinity Health is dedicated to providing you with the latest evidence basedtherapies to transform your health, vitality, quality of life and longevity through nutrition, fitness, stressreduction, metabolic and hormonal balancing and the latest therapy for telomereoptimization based on Nobel Prize Winning technology.

Immerse yourself in an experiential approach to lifestyle change whilebeing embraced and pampered by the beautiful retreat setting ofDeerFields nestled in the Caledon Hills and surrounded by acres ofconservation area and natural trails. Inquire about our3 day Life Transformation Retreat where you willdiscover the secrets of actually reversing yourbiological ageing process, and experience once againwhat it feels like to be 5, 10 and even 20 years younger. Enjoythe soothing and healing powers of the Sea Horse Spa as you complementyour Life Transformation with treatments focused on rest, recovery and restoration of your mind and body.

For more information contact:

Isabella Devine - Client ServicesEmail: idevine@DeerFields.caTel: 905.880.5585 Ext 70017084 Duffys LanePalgrave ON L7E 3C2www.deerfieldsstables.ca

L I V L I F E . N E T [ 3 ]

ORGANIC

Pinotagegrapes

Grown at thecertified organic

DuPlessis vineyard.Breed River Valley.

South Africa

South�African��

Pinotage

12612 Hwy 50. Unit 14, Bolton 905.951.7253www.thenakedvine.com

the “BIG O”Introducing Sacred Journey Stones

Inspired Gift Ideasto Enhance YourHolistic Lifestyle!

Located in the BeautifulHills of Hockley Valley

www.VisionsInTheWoods.com

Soul StirringWorks

Healing Gemstones, Jewellery &

Sacred Geometry Event

June 23 & 24

1402 Queen St W Alton, On

519 938 8386

with special guest C.J. SheltonAccomplished Illustrator, Artist and Female Shaman

Visit the NEWShelburne Golf

& Country Club

Our newly expanded climate controlled clubhouse willseat 160 for weddings, tournaments and meetings.

The banquet facility also has a lounge overlooking the9th and 18th holes and a corporate meeting room with adjoining lounge for small groups and the new outdoor

patio is a great place to relax after your round.The new addition and renovation will compliment thebeautiful, well maintained 18 hole golf course and

full practice facility.Book your round today and enjoy the new amenities at the Club. (opening this May)

www.shelburnegolf.com

County Rd 124, Shelburne • 519-925-5581

Full day Golf Workshop with Hall of Fame teacher, Sam Young every FridayMay 25 to July 27

9am to 3:30pm $95 plus HSTMax group of 6Reserve Early!

Inner Wisdom Healing Centre

Healthy HappinessProviding personalized, compassionate alternative and traditional medical care

for Dufferin CountyDr. Nadine French, MD

family doctor who is committed to supporting her patients to explore all treatment options for wellness

Dr. Faith Flatt, NDnaturopathic doctor offering safe and natural treatment of pain, allergies, chronic illness,

women’s health and much more

Rebecca Tomlinson, BAcertified spiritual healer, diploma in vibrational medicine, holistic nutritionist and iridologist

256 Broadway Ave, Orangeville519-940-8100

[ 4 ] S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

ALWAYS WANTED TO ADOPT CHILDREN, and I can still remember the excitement of receiving the phone message

one Sunday afternoon almost 11 years ago; a baby boy had beenborn. He was healthy and my husband and I could pick him upthe very next morning. Our parenting journey had begun.

Our son was quiet, easy to care for, and was easily contented. Hewas meeting all of his milestones with ease. We first noticed someissues when he was quite young. We took him to an outdoor winter festival when he was a little over one, and after we hadjust arrived he proceeded to jump out of his wagon, rip his boots,hat and mitts off, and run around in the snow in panic. At thetime we thought it was a one-time thing but then the behaviour continued. His cousin still remembers when we went to CentreIsland and shortly after we got there, he got out of his stroller,picked it up, threw it around, and started to jump up and downall over the pizza we had just purchased for lunch. We realized hisbehaviours were escalating and started to seek some help for him.

We went through years of seeing counselors, therapists and psychiatrists, each with a slightly different diagnosis, and all genuinely trying to help with the situation. One of the therapiststold me that she could no longer work with him; he would neverbe in a regular school program, and would have to go to a specialschool where they could deal with children like him. Throughoutit all, there was always the pressure of just medicating him. In mymind that was truly a last resort if we got to a point we could nolonger cope. They suggested having him labeled autistic. I justwasn’t comfortable with that and never permitted that to happen.During this time we also adopted our second child, a daughter.

Trust me, there were days when struggling to get him to attendschool or to even go shopping, that the thought of medicating himcrossed my mind; the years of staying with him in the classroomso he wouldn’t run out the door, and the constant phone calls tomy husband at work to help me get him out of the car and intoschool. As his anxiety to attend school would escalate so wouldhis behaviours; most days he was kicking, punching, crying,pulling my hair out, and at one point, he snapped my eyeglassesin half. We are lucky that his teachers and principal have alwaysbeen so understanding and helpful.

Even though it was completely exhausting and some days I wondered just how to cope, we continued to research help andwere determined to find a solution without medication. I didn’twant him to learn that when he was stressed to turn to drugs orhave the medication take away any of his creativity or emotionsby numbing him. His behaviours were escalating outside of schoolas well. He wouldn’t go to shopping malls or anywhere withcrowds of more than six people. He didn’t want to go to family get-togethers. He wouldn’t let me leave the house with or withouthim. We had to drive on the same roads home or he would have ameltdown, and he had to continually wear the same clothing.

We finally had a breakthrough when it was suggested that wetake him to see a naturopathic doctor. She did blood and hair testing which revealed he had sensitivities to quite a few itemsincluding gluten, eggs and milk, so we changed his diet. After trying several different treatments for his anxiety, we found thatBach Flower Remedy provided him with enough relief for him tocope. It wasn’t an overnight fix, and we still went through severalyears of coping with his behaviours, but I am thrilled to say thatour son, who was always bright, sensitive and very imaginative,has made great strides. He is now in the chimes choir at school,speaks in front of the class, sleeps over at friends’ houses, and cango to crowded areas with very little concern, no medication, notreatments, and no specialized school programs!

He has truly been an inspiration to me, as well as my daughter,who is the most confident person I know. They have inspired meto follow my dream of producing this magazine in the hopes thatthe information provided by our team of experts will help inspireanyone else who is on their own journey of health and wellness.

Marion Hodgson, Creative Director/Editor

welcome to livlife!I N S P I R A T I O N

I

Let me start by saying, I’m not a naturopathic ormedical doctor, or any other expert in the healthand wellness field, but I am someone who hasbeen on her own journey in health and wellnesswhich has led to the inspiration for this publication.

L I V L I F E . N E T [ 5 ]

livlifeSPRING 2012 | VOLUME 1 | ISSUE 1Livlife is produced 4x a year in spring, summer, fall and winter.25,000 copies are distributed through health and wellness centres and offices, destination and getaway locations, recreationand fitness centres, specialty retail locations throughout Dufferin,Caledon, Peel and Wellington regions.

PUBLISHED BYType and Images473286 County Road 11, RR7 Orangeville, On L9W 2Z3519.940.0192 | marion@livlife.net | livlife.net

[8 ]

[ 18 ][ 10 ]

[ 14 ]

[6 ] Alzheimer’s Disease - Early Detection

[8 ] Yoga - Helping to Manage Stress

[ 10 ] Child Food Allergies and Sensitivities

[ 12 ] Allergies Inspired Eat Local Lifestyle

[ 14 ] Teenage Depression or PMS

[ 18 ] Get Your Bike Out

[ 20 ] Something a Little Different in Travel

[ 22 ] A Temporary Reprieve at a Spa

CREATIVE D IRECTOREDITORMarion Hodgson

CONTRIBUTINGEDITORSTemine Ash | Kathleen BrownAnne Duggan | Stacey FokasKelly Nolan | Alison ParsonsSusan Stewart

I LLUSTRATIONMichael Ash | Arnold De GraaffMarion Hodgson

PHOTOGRAPHYMichael Ash | Temine AshSimon Burn | Marion HodgsonMike McColl | Nikkie Tomkins

PRINT PRODUCTIONTemine Ash

COPYEDIT INGPROOFREADINGCorinne Sweetin

Thank you to Tom, Jean andKathleen Hodgson for all theirhelp and support.

[ 6 ] S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

There is much encouragement from Alzheimer’s disease specialists these days to seek medicaladvice when the earliest signs of change in brain function are noticed. | BY ANNE DUGGAN

early detectionAlzheimer’s Disease P

HOTO M

ARIO

N HODGSON

L I V L I F E . N E T [ 7 ]

ITH TH IS TREND TO INTRODUCE EARLY ASSESSMENT and protocol, a responsible friend or

family member is faced with their own questions, “What are someother very early signs of Alzheimer’s disease besides memory loss,and are they any different from just getting old?” “What will thedoctor want to know?” “How do I describe these vague signs?”

Repetition and memory loss are easily recognized and are symptomatic of a number of disorders, including Alzheimer’s, butthere are other changes which are equally significant, but muchmore subtle in their presentation.

I have been dealing with dementia of the Alzheimer type since mytenth birthday, when my grandparents came to live with us andbecame my special project. It is a disease which has influenced mycareer path, my volunteerism, and my constant effort to find waysand means to ease the sufferer and their friends and family; torespectfully leave the clinical research, discoveries, and statistics tospecialists; and to focus my attention on the everyday manage-ment, human interaction and loving exchange of informationwhich helps ease the fear.

In my experience and looking back over many years of direct,personal contact with dementing family members, friends and residents of my care homes, I have consistently noticed some veryearly changes not commonly mentioned in the literature, buthelpful to the doctor as the search for diagnosis begins. One ofthese very early signs is an occasional vagueness; a gap or adiminished or dampened interest in an event or contact thatwould usually elicit enthusiasm or anticipation.

An example might be a spouse no longer wanting to go to a long-standing date with best friends on a Wednesday night to playcards, laugh, talk, eat and drink; no real reason is given except avague, “I don’t know, I just don’t feel like it.” Similarly, a veeringaway from hobbies or talents that have always given joy and fulfillment which now seem of little interest, is a change veryhard for others to discern and accept.

Another sign, not always obvious, but a critical one in my opinion,is the loss of numeric acuity. Perhaps toting a bridge score or writing a cheque becomes difficult, the price of things becomesmuddled, or bills don’t get paid (or paid more than once). Orwith complete candor, a person might tell you that they have justgiven $50,000 to the SPCA, when the actual donation was $50.

A person responds to these changes occurring within themself withas many different reactions as there are situations. At first it is almosta light-hearted, “Oh dear, I can’t even add anymore!”, progressing asit continues, to frustration and embarrassment, and eventually, fear.Sadness is also a common response; withdrawal another. Somefolks become very angry and defensive and depending on thedegree of insight one has, resistive to help from friends or family.

I remember my mother, a strong, competent woman, standing atthe counter in the bank with silent tears running down her faceafter completing a transaction. It took some time for me to under-stand that the process of entering the numbers into the columns inthe bankbook had become bewildering and frightening for her andrepresented all that she feared the most: loss of her independence.

Sometimes a sense of direction seems to disappear. Sometimes ofcourse, this dear soul has never had a good sense of direction andgetting lost was not all that uncommon. Now however, it becomesmore important because the person can no longer backtrack andcorrect their course.

An overlay of humour may be introduced as a means to cover thehumiliation of not knowing an answer; conversation seems to takeon a more superficial characteristic. The processing of informationgradually becomes tangled and tasks which once were secondnature can result in overwhelming anxiety when pursued.

Something to remember is that skills and behaviours are generallyspeaking, lost in the reverse order from which they were gained.So in this society, people who have mastered the computer withinthe last decade or so may suddenly want nothing to do with it.Families are often disappointed with this turn of events as they hadanticipated Mum or Dad enjoying the family contact; keeping thebrain active by joining in on-line games, or researching subjects ofspecial interest.

A common thread through this description of early signs of cogni-tive change is that the signs are often interchangeable with those ofdepression, medication side effects, circulatory change, alcoholabuse, and many other medical complications, most or all of whichcan be altered or improved with early medical intervention.

People sometimes raise the question, “If I or my spouse is experi-encing brain changes, do we really want to know if it’s Alzheimer’s?”The answer is, “Yes, you do.” First, diagnostic tests will identify anytreatable condition causing similar symptoms. Secondly, a medicalopinion that says, in all likelihood it is an irreversible dementia suchas Alzheimer’s, gives you and your loved ones a gift of time inwhich to plan, draw closer, and benefit from the newest of the prescribed medications which impede the progress of the disease.

Any or all of the signs described above or any which worry you,should be discussed with your family physician as soon as possible;be explicit. Visit alzheimersreadingroom.com and alzheimer.ca.

W

PHOTO N

IKKIE TOMKINS

Anne Duggan, a retired Registered Nurse with an abiding commitment to the assurance of dignity, confidence and independence for the aging population, is arespected developer of her own care homes on Vancouver Island and, now, theFounder and CEO of Strategic Elder Life Advocacy Inc., bringing comprehensive consultative guidance to those making decisions and transitions in their later years.

[ 8 ] S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

FELT SUCH GRATITUDE at beingable to teach and share something that I

was passionate about. I knew how muchmy practice had helped me through someof my life’s most difficult challenges.

After four years we moved to a smallercommunity where I was the rarity, the oddball (but I did not know this, ofcourse). One of my lasting memories wasformed as a result of the request that Ihad made to rent our local facility. Myintention was to offer a yoga class inresponse to the interest expressed by afew of my new neighbours, who wereeager to explore the experience of yoga. I can still feel the echo of the shock to mysystem when I called back a week later toconfirm the rental and was informed thatI would not be allowed to use the space.When I asked why, it was stated that theguardians of the space had looked upyoga in the dictionary, and had found thatit had its roots in Hinduism, and that if Iwas teaching those classes, I was obviouslyan ‘evil cult leader’ and they could notrent me the space for those activities. I amnot kidding. That was in 1996.

I

BY SUSAN STEWART

When I completed my YogaTeacher Training in 1992, Ibegan to teach almost immediately. My programdirector knew of a vacancyat a studio in my area and Iwas lucky enough to beginright away. I loved it.

YOGAHelping to Manage Stress

3000 Yearsfor Over

The thought occurred to me that we hadtaken a wrong turn and had fallen into atime warp of some kind. I had never beforeexperienced that degree of true ignoranceand judgment. It felt threatening to me. I,in my naiveté, attempted to explain thatSheridan College did not offer courses incult leadership, and on and on; I was un-successful in my attempts to inform theirpoint of view. I became extremely stressedby these events, advising my husband thatwe needed to list our new home for saleimmediately, as these people knew whereI lived (next door to the facility) and I wascertain they did not want me residing intheir neighbourhood. He listened to myranting, offered support, and then suggestedthat I embrace my yogic practice evenmore deeply. He reminded me of howyoga had helped me navigate throughother distressing life events, such as loss,illness and death in our family. Thankfully,I took his advice. It worked.

After six months, I came out of hidingand set up yoga and meditation classes ina nearby community, which welcomed itsbenefits and me. Eventually, I even offeredclasses in our own small community andpeople actually attended and enjoyed thebenefits of yoga. For me, the point of allof this was that I realized that after sixmonths of engaging deeply in my ownpersonal practice, I had gained access tomy own inner strength and courage, andwas then compelled to get out there andoffer the gift of yoga to whoever wantedit. If no one did, that was fine too. But Ihad to offer it because I knew what thepractice could bring to a life.

I learned a lot about myself in those sixmonths and that is one of the things that Ilove the most about yoga. It works on thephysical body of course, but it also workson mind and spirit as well, in the mostsubtle of ways, even when you are notaware that you need to do some work. It brings out the best in you. Stress doesnot. Yes, I understand that we all needsome level of healthy stress in our lives sothat we continue to get up and function,blah, blah, blah. No, I am referring to thekind of soul-destroying stress levels thatcan create dis-ease in a body. Been there.Was doing that. Almost got the t-shirt.

Stress can be the not-so-silent killer; it can wreak havoc with blood pressure andother body systems. There have beenmany recent studies documenting the

benefits of yoga and meditation for allsorts of physical, mental, and emotionalchallenges. I enjoy reading them becauseit is so very exciting to see yoga and all ofits limbs (i.e. meditation, breathwork, postures, etc.) being embraced by themainstream once again, as it was centuriesago, as a valuable tool that will encourageand support wellness.

I am my own proof; you can be yours.Yoga has saved my life a few times; it cando the same for you. Simply practice eachday for a few moments at a time. Get abook or a DVD that a friend may have suggested. Take a class with a teacher thatyou feel a connection with. Just get started.Begin. The invitation is to be mindful aboutthe moments of your life, your movements,your breath, your thoughts, your fears, andyour joys. Become your own witness, theobserver of your self. This moment, inwhich you accept the invitation to observe,gives you the blessed opening to reflect andthen to respond, rather than react. What adifference that can make. Just imagine.Visit yogauonline.com for a wealth of information.

L I V L I F E . N E T [ 9 ]

LET ’S BEGIN

Sitting comfortably or lying on your mat, allow your eyes to softly close…simplynoticing your breath…the going in and the coming out…the going in and thecoming out. Feeling it as it moves in through your nostrils, down into yourlungs. Notice the expansion, not forcing it, just allowing it, and observing all ofthe sensations. The coolness as the air enters – the warmth of the exhale.

When you become aware that your mind has drifted, gently, without judgment,bring your awareness back home to your breath…always coming home to yourbreath. Continue in this manner for 5, 10, or 15 minutes, whatever seems right toyou. When it is complete, simply notice how you are feeling in that moment.Calmer, more centred and balanced, with a sense of clarity? It may be any, all ofthe above, or none at all. We all experience yoga and meditation in our ownunique ways. Whatever your way is, it will include a slower heart rate and asense of peacefulness that was not present before you began.

Congratulations! You have begun.

Susan Stewart has been teaching gentle yoga and meditation for over 20 years and incorporates them intoher practice, along with Cranio Sacral Therapy, Reiki andSomato Emotional Release, to assist her clients in creating more balanced lives and achieving their well-ness potential, through the release of stress and pain.

PHOTO N

IKKIE TOMKINS

[ 10 ] S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

child food allergiesfood sensitivities

Food allergies are a common topic of concern among many parents these days, and for good reasongiven that 6 in every 100 children are affected by food allergies. | BY DR AL ISON PARSONS, ND

versus

Peanut allergies alone affect over 1.3 million Canadians (or 4 in every 100 children), the incidence being highest in children under 3years of age. Food sensitivities on the other hand, have only been starting to gain exposure. They are highly under-diagnosed, yet canmake a dramatic difference in a child’s overall health. There are a couple of reasons for the under-diagnosis of food sensitivities; the firstbeing that many parents do not realize there is a difference between food allergies and food sensitivities, and the second is that the conventional medical community only recognizes and tests for food allergies in children.

ILLUSTRATIO

NS M

ARIO

N HODGSON

L I V L I F E . N E T [ 1 1 ]

H IS ONE-S IDED TEST INGleaves parents in the dark about their

children’s potential food sensitivities. Forthis reason I think it is important to discuss and differentiate between foodallergies and food sensitivities in order toprovide parents with insight and awareness on this important topic.

Food AllergiesFood allergies involve an IgE-mediatedimmune reaction caused by an immediate(within minutes) reaction to a food. Thetest for food allergies involves a skin-pricktest and/or a blood test, and can be per-formed by your medical or naturopathicdoctor. Food allergy symptoms can includeany of the following: itchy skin rash suchas hives, tingling of the tongue or throat,constriction of the throat, cough, wheezing,nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and worst-casescenario anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is themost sudden and severe reaction to a foodthat can occur; it can involve the skin,lungs, digestive tract and heart, and is alife-threatening medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

The most well-known food allergy is thepeanut allergy. Most parents are aware ofthis widespread allergy, either throughtheir own child being affected or throughthe fact that they are no longer allowed topack a peanut butter sandwich in theirchild’s lunch. Why is it that these allergiesare becoming so prominent in our society?This is a vast topic that requires an entirearticle to describe fully, and it will be discussed in a future issue. For now, weneed to be sure it’s understood what thedifference is between food allergies andsensitivities.

Food SensitivitiesFood sensitivities are an IgG-mediatedimmune response caused by a delayed (24 to 72 hours after ingestion) reactionto a food. The test for food sensitivities isa simple blood test that can be performedby a naturopathic doctor. Because food sensitivities affect an entirely different partof the immune system than food allergies,they produce different symptoms in a child,and require different diagnostic testing andtreatment options. Food sensitivity symptoms in a child can be much moresubtle than food allergy symptoms, and caninclude the following: fatigue, lethargy,eczema or other skin rashes, behaviouralproblems (such as ADHD, hyperactivityand anxiety), upset stomach (and pickyeating), bloating, gassiness, bedwetting,dark circles under the eyes, inflammatoryconditions (such as asthma and juvenilearthritis), and recurrent infections (especially ear, nose and throat infections).

The reason for the vast array of symptomsis in the nature of the immune reaction.Let’s take a closer look at how a reactionplays out.

T

[ 1 ] Child ingests a food thathe/she is sensitive to

[ 2] The child’s inflamed gut liningallows this food through only partiallydigested (food sensitivities as well asother dietary and environmental factors can lead to inflammation ofthe gut wall over time)

[ 3 ] This partially digested food isconsidered a foreign invader by thechild’s immune system

[ 4 ] White blood cells (parts of thechild’s immune system) rush to sur-round the offending food particle

[ 5 ] Systemic inflammation ensues;this inflammation can then displayitself in any number of ways as listed above

Alison Parsons, Naturopathic Doctor, practices at theMiller Health Centre in Orillia and at Wellpath Clinic inPort Carling. She has a special interest in pregnancy,pediatrics, and gastrointestinal health. She is a momherself and loves spending quality time with her family in the kitchen preparing healthy meals, andoutdoors enjoying an active lifestyle.

Unfortunately, this is a vicious cyclebecause as the child continues to consumethe offending food(s), their gut wall further weakens and the resulting symp-toms increase in number and intensity. In order to stop the cycle and improve achild’s health, food sensitivities need to beidentified and eliminated from the diet fora minimum of three months. During thisthree month time period, it is necessary tonot only avoid the offending foods, but toalso repair the damage that’s been done tothe gut wall. A naturopathic doctor, in addition to providing the test, can recommend the best treatment protocolfor each individual child so that the bestoutcome is achieved.

[ 12 ] S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

NEW MOTHER 12 YEARS AGO, I never expected Anastasia to react violently to milk formula at 5 months.

She was born all red and blotchy but it cleared in a few days, sowe assumed she reacted to something I ate while pregnant. Ichose to breast-feed and only to supplement with formula if necessary. However, Anastasia did not sleep well for the first 5months. Steve and I carried her around late every night as sheshed colicky tears of discomfort. Friends suggested it must besomething I ate, like onions or cabbage; we thought it wouldeventually pass.

Self-employed, I fed her throughout the day, but by 5 months ithad become tiring and she was constantly hungry, so I supple-mented with a casein (milk) formula. She gulped it down quicklyand I hoped it would quell her hunger however, within minutes hermouth became red, she vomited, and then slumped lethargically inmy lap; Steve and I zipped her to the nearest hospital.

Anastasia was quite sick and had hives but seemed to recoverover a few hours. They sent us home advising me to try the formula again. Trusting my own instincts I bought soy formulainstead, not wanting her to suffer that agony again. Back then fewbelieved that anyone could be allergic to cow’s milk, but she was,and the soy formula gave her relief. As she grew several moreallergies appeared: eggs, olives, olive oil, lemons, sulfites, tomatoes, and of course, the dog. My little girl changed our livesregarding food, and this was a good thing!

I spent years recreating old recipes, all dairy-free, inventing newones by trial and error. The big challenge was reading food labels,discovering how many foods contain milk, casein, whey, wheypowder, lactose and modified milk ingredients. Food labeling wasnot as good as it is today; now at least they disclose traces of milk.

Her digestive problems made me research and scrutinize everything. I noticed local fresh foods were being overtaken byimports. As a child with severe food allergies she also should notingest chemicals, fertilizers, and fungicides that may be onimported foods. Outside Canada, farming and associated laws are very different.

My experience with Anastasia inspired me to self-publish mycookbook freshalicious narrating my food journeys, including visits to farms, farmers’ markets, producers, and growers to learnmore about our local food.

Simply put, if we do not support local and organic food production in Canada, we will soon have no local farmers left togrow food for our families. Anastasia’s food allergies promptedme to help others overcome food allergies and lifestyle changesaround food, and give those who love great tasting, healthy, dairy-free food, a simple and inspirational way to “eat local!”

ABY STACEY FOKAS

food allergies re-inspired

EAT FRESH • EAT LOCAL • EAT HEALTHY!

My Eat Local Lifestyle

How My Daughter’s

Dairy-free recipes from Stacey Fokas’ book freshalicious on next page. For more fabulous recipes, visit freshalicious.ca.

L I V L I F E . N E T [ 13 ]

Fry the mushrooms at a high temperature,turning them until they start to brown in alarge frying pan.

Add salt, pepper and oregano.

Add all the rice, chopped garlic and garlicpowder. Fry for a few minutes to bringout the nuttiness in the rice.

Add water to cover the rice, by approximately 1 inch. You can add morelater if you need to.

You may add the spinach now or whenthe rice is almost cooked. If you add it atthis point, the flavours combine better.

Simmer on medium heat until the wateralmost disappears, turn the temperatureto low, adding a little water if necessary,cover and let the steam finish cooking the rice.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup brown wild Canadian rice1 cup scented rice5 sliced portabella mushrooms2-3 cups fresh baby spinachsunflower oil, for frying2-3 cloves of garlicgarlic powder, to taste1 tsp oregano fresh or driedsalt and pepper, to taste

PREP

Serves a family of 4 to 6.Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: Approx. 35-40 minutes.

A great side for chicken, quail, porkand beef. Amazing for kids’ lunches.

Preheat oven to 350˚F.

Mix your dry ingredients in one large bowl.Set aside. In a small bowl, beat the eggs.

In a large frying pan, add the brown sugarand water and stir on medium heat untilthe sugar is dissolved. Turn off heat, addthe non-hydrogenated shortening andwhisk.

Once melted, whisk in the cocoa completely and then the beaten eggs.Last but not least, don’t forget to whisk inthe vanilla and the apple juice.

Pour the chocolate mixture into a largebowl. Then add your dry ingredients andmix completely.

Spoon into oil sprayed trays and bake forabout 20 minutes or until an inserted knife comes out clean. Cool on wire racks.

In a small pot, mix the icing sugar, sunflower oil, hot water and vanilla. Heatand cook for about 5 minutes and setaside to drizzle on cooked cakes.

Wash the strawberries in cold saltedwater, remove stems and slice the berries.

INGREDIENTS

1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour1/4 cup whole wheat flour2 tsp baking powder1 tsp baking soda1 tsp ginger2 cups brown sugar2 cups water6 tbsp non-hydrogenated shortening2 cups cocoa powder3 eggs2 tsp vanilla1/4 cup apple juice15 strawberries

IC ING1-1/2 cups icing sugar2-4 tbsp sunflower oil2 tbsp hot water1 tsp vanilla

PREP

Makes 12 to 15 stars. Preparation time: 15 minutes. Cooking time: Approx. 20 minutes.

wild and scented ricewith spinach and portabellas

kids’ chocolately strawberry starsPHOTO SIM

ON BURN

PHOTO M

IKE M

CCOLL

[ 14 ] S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

Depressionor PMS?

PHOTOS N

IKKIE TOMKINS

L I V L I F E . N E T [ 15 ]

CCORDING TO HER MOTHER,SHE WAS EXTREMELY MOODY,

had high sugar cravings and had noticed arecent weight gain around her waist.Linette struggled with severe premenstrualsyndrome (or PMS) related to her cycle.

Most girls will suffer from PMS to somedegree. While we may think it is normal,there are options and treatment plansavailable to improve, and in many casescompletely alleviate symptoms. Symptomsexperienced may include acne, bloating,fatigue, headaches, sore breasts, diarrhea,constipation, sugar cravings, depression,irritability, mood swings, and difficultyconcentrating.

Symptoms of PMS are related to hormonechange. Saliva hormone testing specificallyat day 19 to 21 of the menstrual cycle canprovide invaluable information and under-standing of the cause of PMS symptoms.Saliva testing is a more accurate tool fortesting hormone levels, as it tests at a cellular level while our blood is a trans-port system and not an accurate reflectionof hormone levels. Saliva testing providesa baseline level for hormone levels, and aguideline to a treatment plan that includesdosing of either bio-identical hormones ornatural detoxification products. Followingtesting, clients can consider a variety ofcustomized treatment options utilizingbio-identical creams, natural detoxificationsupplements, or a combination of both.

Bio-identical creams can be used to supplement low hormone levels. The benefit of using bio-identical creams oversynthetic hormones or oral contraceptivesis that their chemical structure is identicalto our body’s natural hormones. Our bodyrecognizes the creams, and in essence, thecreams fit like a “lock and key” to ourreceptors, with less potential for sideeffects. Side effects from oral contracep-tives may include nausea, headaches,dizziness, breast tenderness, mood swingsand blood clots.

Natural detoxification supplements canalso be used alone or in combination withthe creams. The benefit of detoxification isthat the client can address all aspects oftheir hormone system without side effects.

Our environment, the poorer quality ofour food, and stress levels are all contributing to hormone imbalance, andyoung girls are suffering from PMS to agreater degree than in years past.

Kelly Nolan, Pharmacist (UBC, 1987), has extensivetraining in the highly specialized area of Bio-IdenticalHormone Replacement Therapy (BHRt) and pain man-agement. Partnering her pharmaceutical backgroundwith the evolving field of allopathic medicine makesKelly’s services as an integrative practitioner invaluable.

BY KELLY NOLAN, BSC PHARM

Sixteen-year-old Linettecomplained of irregularcycles, severe cramping, anddepression one to two weeks prior to her cycle. She also had difficulty waking up in the morning.

If your daughter suffers fromPMS, consider her treatmentoptions. While birth controlpills are used extensively, sideeffects and long-term use are agrave concern. Most women donot realize that their hormonescan be balanced naturallythrough lifestyle/diet changesand the use of pharmaceutical-grade detoxification programs.True balance is a cycle with nosigns or symptoms.

A

[ 16 ] S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

www.sylviajonesmpp.ca

SYLVIA JONES, MPPDufferin-Caledon

12596 Regional Road 50, Bolton244 Broadway, Orangeville

1-800-265-1603

• Customized Artwork for the Home and Garden• Wedding Bombonieres

• Corporate Gifts• Specializing in Cremated

Remains Memorials Immortalize Your Loved One Forever

theartofzed@gmail.com

Local Glass Blowing Artisan

A greener way forgrease removal!

We Are Your GREEN Solution to Grease Trap Cleaning

e. floyd@greaserelease.cat. 519.943.1400 w. greaserelease.ca

Reliable & KnowledgeableOver 17 years of experience with a sound base of repeat customers. Reliable, fast and friendly service.

Flexible Pick-UpsScheduled, on-call or emergency pick-ups.

Environmentally-FriendlyRecycling at a Ministry approved site.

TYPE IMAGESAND

WHERE GOOD DESIGN MATTERSAward-winning illustration and design studio providing superior creativedesign, concept development and production from start to finish.

Doesn’t your business need some GOOD DESIGN

typeandimages.ca519.940.0192marion@typeandimages.ca

D E S T I N A T I O N S A N D G E T AW A Y S

ILLUSTRATIO

NS A

RNOLD DE G

RAAFF

[ 18 ] S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

AM TELL ING YOU IT ’S T IME ; the weather is changing, the days are

becoming longer, and people everywhereare filled with that urge to get outside.That’s the beauty of cycling; anyone canget their bike out, have some fun, andmaybe burn a few calories in the process.

I recently took a peek in my garage at mypoor, forlorn, pink bike. Not just your average pastel pink, it is a vibrant, neonpink that seems to glow in the dark as ithangs upside down from the rafters, almostbeckoning me to take it down.

I haven’t ridden in years so its vibrancy hasbeen muted by a coating of dust. Normallyalmost fluorescent in colour, I stand outfrom over a kilometre away, and from a road safety stand-point, that’s probably agood thing. However, the fact that I have not ridden in a while makes me feel uncomfortable and not quite ready to display my cycling prowess where I can beseen from a two-kilometre radius.

My husband understanding my trepidationheartens me saying, “It’s a piece of cake. Just keep your balance, push the pedals, andalways look where you’re going.” And thenhe reminds me of the old saying, “It’s likeriding a bike; you’ll never forget.” It turnsout there is truth to that statement. It’s calledmuscle memory and the brain is designed to recover, or remember, these memory movements. Well, that’s encouraging.

So with a new outlook, I gaze at my bike-with-attitude; the bike that was a gift frommy husband who thought I liked thecolour pink (I do, sort of), and now I amdetermined that it’s time to get it out!

I

Have you ever thought youshould just get it out? Thatbike; the one sitting in thebasement or hanging up inthe garage.

get your bike out! BY TEMINE ASH

PHOTO M

ICHAEL ASH

L I V L I F E . N E T [ 19 ]

Realizing my limitations, I decided to seekthe help of some experts – my tires are flatand I forget when and why I’m supposedto change gears. I sought the advice ofMike Neilly, a very friendly enthusiast withover 20 years cycling experience from theCaledon Hills Cycling and Nordic Centrein Inglewood. According to Mike, if yourbike has been in storage for a long time (orin the garage like mine), it will require atune up. They cost around $45 and areoffered at many bike shops. Mike was ableto set my mind at ease, even demonstratinghow to change gears.

I live in the Orangeville-Caledon areawhere we are fortunate to have extensivetrail systems and cycling clubs. It is anarea of long views, gorgeous scenery, andphotographic opportunities. These trailsare free to use, and every one of us couldbenefit from the experience of what theyhave to offer.

Like us, bikes come in all speeds, shapes,and sizes, from comfortable cruisers andhybrids to racers and mountain bikes.There is one out there for everyone and ifyou’re not sure where to begin, checkwith one of the dozens of bike shops inour area. They are owned by local enthusiasts, willing to help and assist youwith your biking needs.

Overall biking can be a fun experiencewhether you go alone or with friends orfamily. It can be a great shared activitythat everyone can enjoy, or simply a wayto get out and get some exercise. Eitherway, just get it out!

[ 1 ] HELPFUL T IPS FOR B IKE R ID ING

Don’t feel intimidated; just get out there and do it.

You must have a CSA approved helmet, and reflective lighting. A bike light isalso helpful when riding at night.

Wear layered clothing. You’ll need something breathable that will wick awaysweat, as well as something you can easily remove if you become too warm.

Gloves and padded shorts are a great idea. Seats can be hard and uncomfortable when riding for the first few times or for long rides.

Wear thick, snug-fitting (but not tight) elastics around your ankles to keep yourpants away from your chain. Newer bikes tend to not have chain guards.

Carry (and drink) lots of water. The breeze from riding dries perspiration fromyour skin, so you may not even be aware that you are dehydrating.

A tool kit is also a good idea if you are out for long rides.

[ 2 ] HELPFUL T IP FOR STREET R ID ING

Know the rules of the road, refresh yourself on your hand signals, and scout forroutes that have designated bicycle lanes (like Hanson Blvd. in Orangeville).

[ 3 ] HELPFUL T IPS FOR TRAIL R ID ING

Remember your etiquette; only bike where bikes are welcome, and be carefulnot to trespass on private property.

When you approach other people on the trail, acknowledge your presence (forexample, if you are riding on the left, call out, “Rider on the left!”). Having a bellis also helpful to alert hikers (and prevent startling them) on your approach.

Be respectful of where you are. Take only photos and leave only bike prints.Pack and carry everything that you bring on to the trail.

If you think you may want to take your biking experience to the next level, consider joininga club like the Caledon Cycling Club. This club is specifically for the mountain biker interested in group rides, races and social events. Visit caledoncyclingclub.com.

For workshop times and clinics on proper bike maintenance call Caledon Hill’s Cycling orvisit caledonhillscycling.com.

For Orangeville’s trails, visit orangeville.org/cms/documents/4477/Parks_and_Trails_Map.pdf

For trail maps of the Forks of the Credit, Earle Rowe Provincial Park, or Mono CliffsProvincial Park, visit thehillsofheadwaters.com/earlrowe/mem-documents.php

[ 20 ] S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

The shoreline was littered with snorkels, finsand towels. The crashing waves had bathersswimming, jumping, and enjoying themselvesall around the rocks and out to sea.

AM SO GRATEFUL that we live in an age that allows us to explore our

glorious planet to our heart’s content. I havebeen fortunate enough to hike the CanadianRockies, ski Canada’s beautiful slopes,depart for all-inclusive vacations to anypoint south, and cruise the oceans blue. Butthis? This was something a little different.

Overall, cruising is a quality experiencewith exceptional service that allows you to see a lot of the world without packingand unpacking your suitcase. Cruising with Azamara Club Cruises however, issimply a phenomenal experience. Azamarais not your ordinary cruise line; it is thatsomething a little different you’ve beensearching for. Two boutique-like sisterships, aptly named The Journey and TheQuest hold up to 694 passengers each.Renowned for their unique itineraries, they are small and personal; ideal for thesmallest and most interesting ports. Theyalso stay longer in each port so that youcan immerse yourself in the destination,some even overnight. That’s what my husband Mike and I like best aboutAzamara. You can visit the island in a lessstressful atmosphere, without any crowds,and away from the main tourist traps.

I

PHOTOS TEMINE ASH

BY TEMINE ASH

Somethinga Little Different

L I V L I F E . N E T [ 21 ]

If you have cruised before, you may befamiliar with others that glance in and outof ports filled with enormous crowds, andwhile on-board you are nickel-and-dimedfor alcohol, shore excursions, bottledwater, specialty coffees/tea, etc., not tomention the “Please smile for me now, itwon’t take a minute” photographer.

With Azamara you don’t have to worryabout things like that. Cozy, isolated portsadorned with yachts dotting the waters,complimentary boutique wine served withmeals concluded by cappuccinos, lattes,and teas to your heart’s content, and notonce will you be bugged for a picture. I was in total Heaven!

One early afternoon we embarked inBarbados, a British coral island with softsand, and warm waters located near thebottom of the Caribbean chain. OurCaptain Johannes Tysse, and his crew gave us a warm welcome and a glass of champagne. We knew we were off to agreat start when we instantly recognizedone of the officers from a previous cruise.Our itinerary took us to Mayreau,Grenadines, St. Lucia (both ports,Soufriere and Castries), St. Barts, Marigot,Saint Martin, Virgin Gorda, and then twofinal luxurious days at sea before disem-barking in Miami. Our ship, The Journey,was re-positioning itself from sailing theSouthern Hemisphere of Antarcticathrough Brazil, and then over to Europe.We felt fortunate we caught this uniqueitinerary of the West Indies before TheJourney’s crossing of the Atlantic.

On the first day of our cruise we tenderedjust off the island of Mayreau, where wewere conveyed by a much smaller vesselthrough the protected waters of TobagoCays National Park. We snorkeled off asmall island inhabited by iguanas, a protected area where one can swim andsnorkel with loggerhead turtles. The warmwater was relaxing to snorkel in but I wascurious what I would do if I actuallybumped into a few turtles. Luckily theywere more frightened of me, than I was ofthem. Later that day we enjoyed Azamara’ssignature BBQ on the island, served onchina plates.

In my opinion, St. Lucia is one of themost beautiful jewels of the Caribbean.We tendered in the bay of Soufriere(French for Smoking Volcano) where wecould hear the cacophony of birds longbefore reaching the island. A lush, tropicalrainforest, replete with poisonous snake(called the fer de lance), houses the infamous twin peaks of the island, PetitPiton and Gros Piton. Mike and I agreedto investigate the Pitons further as we hadalready visited St. Lucia five times prior,and felt it was time to give those moun-tains a hike. The air was blessedly coolerup there and the stunning panorama simply took our breath away.

Hiking down a path to The Baths was achallenge. The area received its unlikelyname from the slaves that used the area tobathe in the 18th century. Long ago, enormous granite rocks and boulders werestrewn along the hills and shores whenthe island’s volcano erupted for the firsttime. A sandy zigzagging trail leads you

around, and in some cases through, massively imposing boulders (roughly thesize of houses and cars) and picturesquegrottoes. It was a spectacular sight to see.

Returning from our adventures on land,the ship’s crew would be waiting at thegangway to welcome us home each nightand indeed, it felt like home: from itslarge library for picking out a good book,to the computer room with wireless forstaying in touch. Replete with onboardlecturers, fitness trainers, the spa, sun-bathing, swimming, and a whole host ofentertainment options to fill yourevenings (for example, movies, dancing,etc.); we were left not wanting a thing.

Not only was the cruise a great experience, it was also a great value. Wereceived reduced air credit using theCruiselines Choice Air Program, as well asa reduced stateroom discount and freeInternet minutes for having booked afuture cruise on our previous sailing. Youalso notice the value in all the littledetails, for example: fresh flowers in yourroom, designer soaps and lotions with amatching room fragrance atomizer, terryrobes and slippers, and 24-hr free roomservice with made to order afternoon teaand pastries. It’s something a little different…leaving you yearning for more.

Temine Ash, (Sheridan College Business Administrationgraduate), owner of Mono Arts & Graphics Printing Ltd.Travel is a passion in her life, whether it is with her family, friends or as a part-time travel consultant atExpedia Cruiseshipscenters. Learning about differentsports, people and culture is an important part ofTemine's active lifestyle.

ILLUSTRATIO

NS M

ICHAEL ASH

[ 22 ] S P R I N G 2 0 1 2

OCATED IN THE CENTRALREGION OF THE H ILLS OF

HEADWATERS , it is nestled withinscenic rolling hills. Just a short drive fromOrangeville along the Hockley Road, youimmediately feel like you’ve left the rigors of every day life as you turn intothe Resort.

Bustling with skiers in the winter, theScottish-style links golf course, renownedgardens, on-site vineyard, hotel facilities,and conference centre ensure the Resort is a hive of activity year round.

When you arrive on the third floor, youleave behind the stresses of the week andenter a beautifully laid out 8,000 squarefoot peaceful and calming Spa whose neutral colours, rich textures, and opulentinterior design only add to the experience.

L

I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Spa atthe Hockley Valley Resort.

BY KATHLEEN BROWN

PHOTOS HOCKLEY VALLEY RESORT

a temporary reprieve

L I V L I F E . N E T [ 23 ]

I was greeted warmly at reception and then escorted to theladies’ changing area where I was provided with a locker, anda sumptuous robe and footwear.

The treatment room was warm and subtly lit, and I was verypleased to find that the massage table was heated also. The massage therapist was friendly and explained the treatmentto me before beginning. I had ordered the Head, Hands andFeet Treatment, which included a neck and scalp massage,hand massage and foot treatment. The foot massage entailed a hot rock stone massage and exfoliating scrub. The oils theyused were very pleasant and not overpowering, and the defthands of the therapist left me feeling relaxed and comfortable.

You can easily spend an entire day relaxing at the Spa: chatting with friends in between treatments, relaxing in thebeautiful lounge, enjoying the breathtaking scenery from thebalconies, lunching in the cozy restaurant, and all the while,still enjoying the comfort of the luxurious bathrobes. Afteryour time at the Spa, enjoy luxuriating in the saltwater pools(both indoor and outdoor, in season) and lunching poolside.

The knowledgeable staff were pleasant and courteous andwere happy to provide me with additional information (likechecking on-line regularly for upcoming specials). The Spaitself was warm and inviting with comparable prices. OverallI was exceedingly impressed with my spa day experience and recommend the Hockley Valley Resort to anyone whofeels the need to escape, even if only for a few hours.

MONARCHMENTORING

Arts Based Workshops andMindful Living Strategies to Enhance Your LifeMichele Johnston

monarchmentoring.wordpress.commonarchmentoring@gmail.com

519-939-9973Orangeville, On

• Whole Foods & Snacks • Organic & Local Produce • Supplements • Eco-Friendly Products • Books • Unique Gifts & Local Art • Smoothie Cafe • Yoga & Massage Services

New - SHOP ONLINE

Whole Family HealthEllen Brakel & Joey Lemieux

116 Main Street East, Shelburne

519-925-2822 • www.soaringheartwellness.com

livlifeA G U I D E T O H E A L T H A N D W E L L N E S S

SUMMER IS JUST AROUND THE CORNERREAD ABOUT Infertility, Living with Chronic Pain, Anti-Aging Naturally,Nutrition and Physical Vitality, Meet Your Local Wellness Provider, continuingeditorial in a series on Food Allergies and Sensitivities, and Alzheimer’sDisease plus our unique Destinations and Getaways section in each issue.

It’s about your health, it’s about your wellness and your journey to livlife.

QUALITY EDITORIAL | QUALITY DESIGN | QUALITY PRINTING

For advertising information, please contact 519.940.0192 | marion@livlife.netFor the summer issue, please call by June 22, 2012.

livlife.net