Inside The Polished Apple

The following is from the most recent issue of ICPA's Pathways to Family Wellness magazine (its available in the office!) and I thought the subject matter aligned nicely with our monthly August theme of Seasons. “We are composed of rhythms and exist within the rhythms of nature... Seasonal, circadian, lunar, and tidal patterns don't just form the background to our lives-they are  our lives.” While many of us are rushing through our days and keeping tight to a paper/ computer schedule, summer presents the perfect time to synchronize with the patterns of ebb and flow around us. A few of the suggestions presented in the article: Awareness and Enjoyment of the daily transition of the sun rising and setting, and observing the stars in the sky at night. Witness the temporary moments-such as how the sun filters through your backyard or a fleeting moment of a butterfly passing. The concept of balance as constantly changing and dynamic. Look for the silence in your d...

Thank you to Margaret Kennedy, Registered Acupuncturist with Elan Family Wellness Centre, in Bowness, Calgary, for this posting on the element of Fire.  The Element Fire, is one of the elemental powers, that represents Summer, where the energy reaches its maximum potential. this follows the energy of Spring. In Spring, the seeds that are sown, grow and come to fruition in the summer. We, are all part of Nature, and by understanding the aspects of the Fire Element within us we can improve and balance our own health  and our lives. Nature’s energy flourishes and blossoms in the summer, not only in Nature but also within us, in what we have planted in the garden of the Earth and in our  personal garden within ourselves, our dreams, visions and plans.. This is the season when Nature blossoms and the time for us to blossom, so that we can move forward on the dreams, visions and plans that we made. Failing to do this, means we will not have our harvest  We will depl...

As part of Elan Family Wellness Centre's August theme of Gearing Up, here's my own article covering a gentle routine for August.   Whether we are excited by the soon return of fall's routines, or sad about the end of the summer warmth, we can use August to bridge between both. Just as your family may be settling into summer, our thoughts turn to back to school and work. August is the perfect time to make sure we are fitting in our relax-time and prepping for life with a routine. Routines can be good for all of us, especially the little ones in our lives. It may even help to overcome some of the “I'm bored...” you've been hearing. During these last few weeks of summer and holidays, how about considering adding a morning and evening routine to your summer as a transition? (perhaps for those not already working or in a regular routine). Start by picking a consistent wakeup time and 1-2 important things you want to complete each day- If its important to y...