Blog

12/16/201905/03/2024

The Season of Giving

Here we go again: another Christmas season is ramping up and I wonder:

Are you ready?

I don’t mean are your gifts wrapped and under the tree. I mean are you ready for all of the silliness that comes with long to-do lists and unexpected sideswipes that can invade what should be a joyful time of year.

After all, we’re celebrating the birth of Jesus and birthdays should always be enjoyable, right?

Our challenge is perspective.

Somehow over the decades, we got lost in the wonder and magic of a Coca Cola promotion that stuck. Now for the most part, instead of the central focus of the season is about the all-important life lessons Jesus

taught like kindness, forgiveness, and compassion, at the center of Christmas is a jolly fellow in a red suit, who flies around the world delivering presents to hopeful children and adults who trust that Santa has their name on the nice list and not on the naughty list.

I love the magic and beauty of the decorations, music and special food prepared at this time of year. I have my own tradition of making a plum pudding that my Mum and God Mum made for decades and the white fruitcake that my husband’s Mum made; it wouldn’t be Christmas without them. For me now, this season is about kindness, forgiveness, and compassion the gifts you won’t find in stores…they’re one size fits all and everyone needs them.

As anticipation is building and shoppers are shopping, what I’d like to recommend is a focus on the gifts we really need in our world.

We need more presence; not presents. We need to acknowledge one another, be there and care for each other.

What about the neighbor whose child or spouse passed away or the new immigrant who might not have a community here? Could we not deliver some kindness or compassion to them over this Christmas season? How about delivering a smile to your neighbors and your family, asking how they’re doing and then really listening to the answer?

Joy and happiness are not dependant on our bank balance, our age, size, nationality or our status.

Happiness and joy are cultivated in our hearts and once shared freely with others have an amazing ripple effect.

Experts who study kindness say that even when we observe someone being kind, we benefit. So there you have it: you give a gift; you receive a gift.

This festive season, give a little bit of love to everyone you encounter.

It could be that your kindness, empathy, and compassion are the Christmas miracles that change someone’s life.

Kathie Donovan
Currently a Wellings Ambassador and Living Well Advisor, Kathie was Canada’s
broadcasting sweetheart for almost three decades as well as co-host of the beloved television show Regional Contact. Kathie is a gifted storyteller who shone a light on characters and creative types tucked into small towns. Her love of connecting people, caring and sharing is inspiring. Kathie has authored two books with a third on the way; she continues to build on her annual event “Refresh Your Passion” and other workshops. Kathie’s priorities are to love what she does and live well.

This Wellings blog by Kathie Donovan was exclusively written for Wellings Communities and appeared first on MyWellings.com.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

12/06/201905/03/2024

Calm Your Dogs Anxiety With Essential Oils

The Science of Wellness: Eat>Live>Love

Recently we decided to test the waters again with our 3-year-old English Pointer named “Drifter”. Commencing the process to give him more freedom of space in our home.

The first few times we were met with feathers from under the door. Only to find behind the door, inside the bedroom that our pooch, a hunting dog, had chewed a small hole along the seam of the duvet fill. And voila the entire carpet was a few inches deep with fluffy soft billowy feathers.

I’m new to crate training a dog. As a puppy, he was crate trained so the crate is very much his home and dog den. We are attempting to give him more run of the house and a safe environment.

After a few unsuccessful attempts arriving home to half-eaten shoes, pillows and numerous duvet fills we decided to do our research and read up on anxiety in animals.

We find a few drops of 100% Veeva anxiety essential oil blend Lavender, Frankincense and Geranium on his favourite blanket, or crate carpet to be a wonderful way to remove his anxiety.
A diffuser also helps to add aromatherapy with this dog-friendly blend of essential oils. They work great for removing wet dog smells too.
Rescue remedy is a natural supplement that helps to combat your dog’s anxiety; a few drops in the water dish is all you need.

It’s peace of mind in the WellingsⓇ pet-friendly environment, and as a bonus, if you do use the diffuser and the essential oils, it will boost your mood and having a calming effect on you as well!

Eureka we have success!

It’s been several months with Drifter having the run of the bedroom and no more coming home to a room full of feathers! The anxiety blend has everything you and your dog needs to relax.

Happy dog, happier pack leaders!

Susan Stephen

Susan Stephen is the Vice President of Living Science Wellness Centre located in Stittsville. A Mind Body Spirit & Business Coach, UFH Unity Field Healing Practitioner, Relational Clearing Practitioner and a Business Transformation Advisor. To connect with Susan and her team: https://livingscience.ca/

in Healthy Aging Posted by Susan Stephen

11/11/201905/03/2024

Sleep Ease

Getting a restful good night’s sleep may be challenging as you adjust to your beautiful new surroundings at the Wellings. As the time changes we are reminded “Spring forward – Fall back” we change the clock back one hour on Sunday November 3, 2019.

Here are a few simple tips to ensure you sleep well and wake up feeling rejuvenated.

During the day

How much sleep we get and how well we sleep, is profoundly affected by sunlight, especially in the morning and the early part of the day. Exposure to sunlight will help for both alertness and energy during the day, and good quality sleep at night. If you cannot get enough sunlight into your day invest in a natural spectrum lamp for your desk or your suite. You won’t believe the difference.

In the evening

Start to prepare for bed 30 minutes before you plan to go to sleep.

Dim the lights as the evening progresses. Our bodies haven’t evolved to handle all the artificial light.

Turn off the television, radio, and computer to quiet the mind and senses. The light emission from various devices can be stimulating and wakes you up, keeps you up long after your bedtime.

Draw a warm hot bath or take a shower to relax, unwind, chill. Add bubbles or essential oils with restful scents to prepare the mind for rest. Aromatherapy has benefits try using lavender, mandarin, clary sage, roman chamomile all found in Veeva’s Sleep Blend essential oil.

Have a bedtime routine. Do the same things each night, to tell your body it’s time to wind down. This might include reading a book, or listening to soothing music. Enjoying relaxing activities (please no tv, computer screens) think drowsiness, calm, and quiet.

Comfort is key, create a room to allow for you to ease into la la land. Temperate is important, choose light non clinging clothing, maybe cool the room for some, opening a window for fresh air & white noise, closed for quiet solitude, consider earplugs, sleep masks, perhaps a fan. Invest in a quality mattress, comfortable pillows, linens and blankets make your sleep restful and pleasurable.

Did you know that Just a few drops of our beloved Veeva essential oils will not only bring a whole new freshness to your laundry but in a diffuser it can aid in peace and tranquility throughout your entire cosy studio suite. Lavender is a calming scent and science has shown it can aid in falling asleep, it is another good choice for your pillow cases, just remember a little goes along way!!

You’ll wake up rejuvenated and ready for the gym!

Susan Stephen

in Healthy Aging Posted by Susan Stephen

10/14/201902/11/2022

Festive Fall Foliage

It’s finally here and with fall’s arrival comes cooler temperatures, lots of great comfort foods like soups and stews. Time to start thinking of crockpot cooking. You can get all the nutrients you need from a delicious nutritious bone broth or warming soup such as carrot ginger, roasted red pepper, thai red pepper, chilli with cinnamon.

Add a few spices and fresh herbs, a dash of cinnamon, a pinch of cayenne pepper, some fresh chopped dill. It’s easy peasy to enjoy fresh nutritious soups and stews filled with lots of flavour and enjoyed from your view from your balcony or patio.

Interested in adding some spice to your suite. Start with adding some colourful fall foliage, a few leaves, some dried twigs and voila you’ll have a creative centerpiece to add a pinch of nature to your dinner table.

As fall approaches you’ll be eating fresh hearty soups and stews to warm your heart. A slow cooker or instant pot works well to create a batch you can freeze and thaw as needed.

Here is a super simple recipe to make in the comfort of your suite. And easy for busy folks on the go. Take it with you to a potluck or to enjoy while you walk around the courtyard.

Carrot Soup

La Zuppa di Carotte della Linda

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a carotenoid pigment found in many orange fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is an important precursor for vitamin A. An extreme lack of vitamin A can cause blindness. In fact, in the developing world, vitamin A deficiency is the leading cause of blindness: (source WebMD)

Try adding more sweet potato, squash, pumpkin, and oranges to your diet.

This recipe for a hearty carrot soup is a great way to get your beta-carotene

Carrot Soup (La Zuppa di Carotte della Linda)

1 – 5lb bag of carrots (organic if possible)
Broth (either homemade or bouillon cubes)
Filtered Water
Dill fresh or dried
Sea salt & pepper to taste
Garnish Options: a drizzle of pure virgin olive oil or fresh cream

Directions:

Wash and peel the carrots.

Cut them into small chunks.

Place them in a huge pot.

Cover them with the broth or the filtered water.

Note: If using the filtered water, add four bouillon cubes of your choice (vegetable or chicken)

Bring to a boil, turn the heat down to medium – low, place a lid on the pot and allow cooking until the carrots can be easily pierced with a fork. (about 25 minutes)

Take the pot off the stove and leave it to cool.

Once the mixture is cool, transfer the carrots and liquid in batches to a blender! Puree until smooth! The mixture should be thick and creamy! Adjust the amount of liquid for your desired consistency!

To serve: reheat the soup (zuppa) and add: either a drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle dill and fresh cream on the top! Serves 4

Buon appetito!

Recipe Credit: Linda Grossi

Just one more way to enjoy the adult lifestyle living at the Wellings.

Susan Stephen

in Food and Recipes Posted by Susan Stephen

10/02/201902/11/2022

The Beet Goes On

Crisp fall days are here and we think of harvest time, apple picking, gathering beets & carrots, pumpkin pies. Cooler temperatures, fresh breezes and plenty of leaves crunching beneath our feet as we walk around the Wellings trails. At this time of year we feel like eating preserves, beets, carrots and vegetables we’ve harvested from the garden.

To keep your cupboards stocked up for the coming months think of preserves. A few chutneys, some pickles will add the right amount of warmth and crunch to your meals.

1. An easy beet hummus dip is a great colourful snack on the go.
2. Sprinkle with handful of nuts / pumpkin seeds, raisins
3. Crisp veggies (think colour: cucumber slices, red pepper, carrot sticks, green pea pods), breadsticks and crackers make good dippers and available in gluten free, flavours and colours.
4. A super easy nutritious snack to enjoy with friends. Extras maybe frozen for future get togethers with friends at the Wellings.

Beet Hummus Dip

Ingredients:

1 lb (450 g) beets, about 3 medium sized, peeled and diced
1 – 15 oz (425 g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 Tbsp (30 mL) tahini
1 tsp (5 mL) cumin
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt
Soft goat cheese (optional)

Steam or roast beets until tender and then let cool. Add cooled beets to food processor along with chickpeas, tahini, cumin, lemon, garlic, and salt. Purée until smooth.

Place beet hummus in serving bowl and garnish with crumbled goat cheese if desired. Serves 8.

Each serving contains: 110 calories; 4g protein, 3g total fat (0g sat. fat, 0g trans fat); 18g total carbohydrates (4g sugars, 4g fibre); 347mg sodium

Recipe credit: Alive Magazine, Matthew Kadey, MSc, RD

If you have fall favorites that are an easy prep and taste great share them with us, and we will let our community know!

Susan Stephen

in Food and Recipes Posted by Susan Stephen

09/06/201905/03/2024

The Kindness Effect

“Kindness is the one size fits all gifts that everybody needs.”
-Kathie Donovan

Science is finally catching on to the kindness movement, recognizing that thoughtfulness is not a sign of weakness but a healthy and meaningful habit.

What may appear to be a very simple act is actually a rather complex experience for us humans. Even observing kindness can have an impact on us. We experience kindness in our heart as in “his kind act touched my heart” as well as in our head because we remember kindness and are sometimes inspired to be kind to others as a result of having the experience.

When I was researching my first book Inspiration in Action: A Woman’s Guide to Happiness, I had a study group who would play along with some of my ideas, one of which was an experiment called The Mindfulness Project. I challenged the participants to carry out simple, thoughtful acts for other people for one week. Some were asked to give compliments freely for a week, others were asked to buy someone a cup of coffee, or smile at three people. The results were inspiring, as each person reported back that they felt the power in a small kind act, even when they weren’t the recipient. Science calls this effect “helpers high.”

Acts of kindness have tremendous physical benefits. Showing kindness, releases the hormone oxytocin, which produces nitric oxide that helps lower blood pressure. Oxytocin also supports good self-esteem and optimism. So, next time you’re feeling shy, show someone some kindness and you’ll feel the benefit too.

“In the same way that it wouldn’t take much to turn your day around, ask what you could do for someone else.”
-Kathie Donovan

A few years ago, I used a simple strategy to spread kindness. I wrote thank you notes on a piece of paper, folded it in half and placed it under random windshield wipers in the parking lot, outside my doctor’s office, outside a hospital, in a very full downtown parking lot; always when I thought nobody could see me. The message inside would say “you have a beautiful smile” or “you make our world better by being here” or “you are loved,” you get the idea. I’d write For You on the front of the paper and leave it under the windshield wiper. While I’ll never know how those messages were received, I know what I intended and I definitely felt that “helpers high.”

The cool thing about kindness is that it’s absolutely free. Kindness is a smile, looking someone in the eye, saying thank you, giving compliments freely. It’s assisting someone when it looks like they need it, it’s doing something kind for someone and not telling anyone about it.

Kindness can be learned and it’s an excellent habit to cultivate because kindness has magical powers. The kinder you are to others, the more kindness comes to you in ways you would never anticipate. Kindness when practiced regularly helps to reduce stress and leads to a feeling of wellbeing.

If you choose to see the world with kindness instead of fear, you’ll have a much better day and everyone around you will benefit. I challenge you to foster kindness in your community and notice what a difference it makes for you and everyone you encounter. All you have to do is ask yourself what small act of kindness could you do for someone to make their day brighter? Then enjoy doing it. Be kind; live well.

Kathie Donovan

Currently a Wellings Ambassador and Living Well Advisor, Kathie was Canada’s broadcasting sweetheart and co-host of Regional Contact for almost 30 years. Kathie travelled the Country shedding light on attractions, causes and talented artisans tucked away- off the beaten track. Her love of connecting people, caring and sharing is inspiring. Kathie has authored three books, continues to build on her workshop series “ Refresh Your Passion”, and is currently taping a new TV show, yet still has time to love what she’s doing and live well.

This Wellings blog by Kathie Donovan was exclusively written for Wellings Communities and appeared first on MyWellings.com.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

08/13/201902/11/2022

Summer Skin Care

It’s Summertime as we spend more time in the great outdoors soaking up all that vitamin D naturally we need to be mindful of the powerful sunshine and ultraviolet rays.

Many sunscreens offer protection up to 50 SPF (sun protection factor) so slather it on before you head out the door to get maximum enjoyment from your day.
Look for natural healthier options, available in most local health food stores and in the natural cosmetic section in most grocery stores.

Proper Application of Sunscreens

Sunscreen should be applied at least 15 minutes before going outside and at least every 2 hours while you are outside.

Apply it generously to any areas that are not covered by clothing, a hat, or sunglasses. Don’t forget your ears, the backs of your hands, and your scalp, if you have very short hair or are bald.

To get the full benefit from your sunscreen, it is important to use the recommended amount.

For example, an adult should use about 7 teaspoons (35mL) of sunscreen to cover all areas of exposed skin (1 teaspoon for each arm, 1 teaspoon for each leg, 1 teaspoon for your front, 1 teaspoon for your back, and 1 teaspoon for your face and neck).

Don’t forget, if you are swimming, you may need to reapply sunscreen when you are out.

As summertime is fun-time, here are a few tips to share from Health Canada

Now you are all set for a lively wander to experience all life has to offer, adventure, nature, and laughter along the way. Wellings walking club is a great way to connect with people and nature, send us an email if you would like to join us at live@wellingsofstittsville.com, and don’t worry, we always have some sunscreen!

Susan Stephen

in Health and Fitness Posted by Susan Stephen

07/30/201905/03/2024

The Power Of Connection And Community

I remember what it felt like when I walked into a new classroom in grade school, after my family moved to a new city. I felt so alone and uncomfortable until I connected with the people in my class, which didn’t take too long. I’ve experienced that same feeling over and over throughout life whenever I’ve been courageous enough to join a class or a new group of any kind.

You’d think we’d learn that the feeling of being alone doesn’t last very long but fear often wields its power to keep us from trying new experiences because fear’s job is to keep us safe and comfortable. Ultimately, I believe we’re all looking to feel connected and we’re at our best when we’re part of a community. Our fear is quickly eased either through conversation or shared activity, just like it was when I was in grade school. Our work then is to ask fear to take a seat while we get on with the business of exploring the amazing opportunity communities have to offer.

Science shows us that human beings are born for connection and we thrive when we’re part of something greater than ourselves. Today, young people often refer to their group of friends as a tribe, borrowing from history and they’re not wrong. We thrive when we’re with our tribe because ultimately community is where we feel valued, seen, heard and appreciated.

Communities have a powerful effect on our wellbeing: emotionally, physically and spiritually; helping us feel socially connected and providing a sense of being part of something meaningful. In our digital world, on-line communities can provide a touch point without us having to be together physically but nothing can replace the relationships we make when we’re together in person.

As human beings, we need familiar threads to tie us together: family is a great example. Although not perfect, a family’s story has commonalities and provides a sense of belonging that we attempt to replicate throughout life. Depending on the stage of our life it could be a social circle, a spiritual group, a workplace family or the community we choose to live in.

Just as our roles in life shift, the importance of connection and community shifts as well. We are meant to continue learning and growing as humans, so as we retire from full time work or become empty nesters, joining a group or community offers focus, engages our imagination and enriches our social skills. How about learning a new language, volunteering, joining a dance or yoga class; perhaps taking martial arts classes?

As we age, our focus should be on enjoying a good quality of life: maximizing friendship, health and happiness. Living well at The Wellings means being part of a community where everyone is encouraged to thrive, where everyone has an opportunity to contribute, where there’s reduced stress, opportunities to make new friends, learn something new and above all feel safe when you’re at home. This tribe is fuelled by the enthusiasm of its members and supported by the staff; I just don’t think you’ll find a better definition of a freedom living community than the lifestyle enjoyed by folks who live at The Wellings.

Kathie Donovan

This Wellings blog by Kathie Donovan was exclusively written for Wellings Communities and appeared first on MyWellings.com.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

05/27/201902/11/2022

Set The Table And Connect With Friends

Having a few friends over for a dinner can be a great way to unwind, chill, and relax while enjoying some great food and wonderful conversation. Think of it as Life À La Carte.

Setting the mood for your next soiree can be as important as choosing the menu.

When your dinner guests arrive you’ll want your WellingsⓇ home to be warm and inviting a fresh scent will capture their senses and start those creative juices flowing…

If you’re like me your front hall closet contains everything from sport shoes, sandals, work shoes and everything in between. Take their coats and hang them in your Veeva scented closet. Hang a terra cotta diffuser filled with a few drops of Veeva essential oil.

Have a diffuser or candles lit to create ambiance and enhance mood, your guests will appreciate the effort.

Serve a special drink for the occasion and in case you have guests who have to drive, creating a mocktail version will be appreciated. Water infused with lemons and oranges or other fruits and vegetables is not only delicious and surprising, it is a wonderful way to quench their thirst.

Try these easy & delicious family favorite appetizers to start:

For a warm appetizer try fresh medjool dates wrapped in bacon, bake 400 degrees F for 5 minutes turn and bake for another 5 minutes until bacon is crispy, super easy and one of my favorites.
Cucumber slices with herbed goat cheese and julienned fresh red peppers with fresh parsley sprinkled on top are a great choice. They are appetizing in colour, low in calories and taste delicious. For an easy finger food, try wooden skewers with a cherry tomato, a sprig of fresh basil leaf, or slice of black olive, a mini bocconcini cheese ball, drizzled with a reduction of balsamic vinegar and voilà you are off to the races.
Followed by the Main course, Dessert, Coffee or Tea!

Connecting with friends is an integral part of living well at Wellings and we hope you will enjoy entertaining and creating a few of our tried and true favorites while sharing a few laughs.

Bon Appétit!

The Science of Wellness, Eat.Live.Love ~ Susan Stephen

Susan Stephen

in Food and Recipes Posted by Susan Stephen

04/02/201909/03/2020

Laundry And The Love Of Essential Oils

It’s inevitable, we love life and between our clothes and linens at some point, the washing machine must get turned on.

Has this ever happened to you?

Laundry machines using your In-suite washer and dryer you get busy and forget there is a load in the washing machine.

In searching for your favorite piece of clothing, you come to find you have had the misfortune of leaving a load of wet damp laundry in the washing machine for a couple of days.

Chances are you opened the door and discovered a sour smell in the machine along with your freshly washed clothes.

Tip: Wash the load again this time add some Veeva essential oils, add a few drops to the soap in the dispenser.
Tip: To keep front load dryers smelling “stress-free” leave the door open and add Veeva essential oils, add a few drops of the masterfully blended stress blend on an old washcloth or pillowcase left in the dryer will leave it smelling fresh like patchouli, Ylang Ylang, Sweet Orange and Clove.
Tip: Want to keep your linens smelling “clean and fresh” longer? Add a few drops of Veeva essential oils to a face cloth or pillowcase and tuck it in your linen closet.
Tip: Make your own dryer sheet by adding a few drops of Veeva essential oils to a washcloth or pillowcase and toss it in with your drying load. Everything will come out smelling fresh and clean.

Did you know that Just a few drops of our beloved Veeva essential oils will not only bring a whole new freshness to your laundry but in a diffuser, it can aid in peace and tranquility throughout your entire cosy studio suite. Lavender is a calming scent and science has shown it can aid in falling asleep, it is another good choice for your pillowcases, just remember a little goes a long way!!

The Science of Wellness, Eat.Live.Love ~ Susan Stephen

Susan Stephen

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Susan Stephen

The Season of Giving