Winter Issue 2016 No.

61

The
Menopause
Our Motto is...we will survive...

Gang

'Age is Just a Number'

By Pauline Girling
I'm not sure that I ever liked accepting middle age when I moved into my 50's but that stage
of life has passed for me. Now I'm into my 70's I definitely don't want to "think old" or
experience all the physical issues that could be on the horizon for me now I'm a fullyfledged senior! I guess a lot of women of my era felt like this and I know if I want to hold
off those aches and pains and complicated medication regimes for as long as possible then
I have to find ways to stay physically active and to eat sensibly.

When I retired five years ago I was probably luckier than some women of my age group
because I wasn't on any prescription medication. This could be due to lucky genes but
more likely because I have stayed active most of my life and had been involved in some form of regular exercise ever
since high school days.
Because of this, I have always understood and like the jump start that doing something physical provides but when the
children were young or when I was working full time and life got busy I just couldn't find the time to get to the gym or
work out regularly. But I also knew the more physically active I was the less stressed and happier I was in my everyday
life.
Now my working days are over I have much more time and far more choices. I have the luxury (at last) of planning my
days. So, in my 70's, I have renewed my commitment to staying fit and active and have found lots of interesting ways
to stay involved.
First of all, I found a gym that I felt comfortable going to. It's a women only club so not too many "body babes" wandering
around in skimpy workout clothes. There are no guys there to impress! It's close to home too and with a good selection
of classes and on site trainers to personalize your own program. Now this is where I go at least a couple of mornings
a week to take a class or go through my fitness program.
Another fitness activity I have taken up in my retirement is tennis! I had never played before and it's taken quite a time
to feel adequate when I walk on the court to play! I began by pushing myself to join a local club and then enlisted the
help of the tennis pro and signed up for group tennis lessons. Through these sessions I met quite a few "people like
me" who were learning to play the game too! As a group we have progressed and moved on from the fundamentals.
Now we meet up at least once or twice a week to play friendly games. I am so pleased I pushed myself out of my comfort
zone and learned to play tennis. I find it such a fun and social activity and I so enjoy all the new friendships I've made
along the way.
And now I have just come across another "motivator" to keep me moving. I've recently bought myself a FitBit watch to
track some basic daily activity: how many steps I take, how far I've walked, how many flights of stairs I've climbed, how
restful my sleep is (when I wear it overnight) and my estimated calorie burn on these stats.
I can't explain it, but wearing the FitBit motivates me to move more! I love seeing my stats, my all-time best records and
the days that I break them. It is a little reminder that I think about throughtout the day and it motivates me to make a more
active choice. I think of it as my daily reminder to move and it truly works as a motivator. I think it's so important for weight
loss and overall health because, as studies show, even people who exercise are putting their health at risk by being
sedentary for so many hours in a day.
Gadgets may come and go, but I'll keep using my FitBit into the foreseeable future. I think it offers people like me the
motivation to keep moving and moving and moving!

Inside this issue

Age is Just a Number............................................... 1
Tales from Trish...................................................... 3 & 4
Lines from Caroline.................................................

Bda Cancer & Health Center Home Page..............

Divine Nature and Inspirations................................

Inside Out Wellness Center Home Page................

Bda Diabetes Association Page.............................

Living Wills............................................................. 10
Dancing.................................................................. 11
Bucket List Ideas for Women................................. 11
Welcome to Inner Balance Bermuda..................... 12
Health Benefits of Walking....................................

12

Our Motto is...we will survive...

Menopause Corner
Age is Just a Number...My friend Pauline has encouraged me to get a
FitBit and I enjoy following in her footsteps for keeping healthy. (Cover
Page)
Tales from Trish...Welcome to grandparenthood Trish. It's the most
wonderful feeling in the world. When your little ones call you Nana, it will
just melt your heart. (Pages 3 & 4)
Lines from Caroline...Wise words from Caroline: Manage your time, take
care of yourself and watch your stress melt away. (Page 5)
Divine Nature & Inspirations...The moral to Monica's story is simply this:
If there's something you think you can't do and you're presented with the
opportunity to "try", don't shy away. (Page 7)
Inside Out Wellness Center...Acupuncture helps to normalize an over
active nervous system. Dr. Marr advocates this treatment for a
menopausal body. (Page 8)
Bermuda Diabetic Association...Sara McKittrick shares the 5 simple
steps to a healthier you in 2016. (Page 9)
Living Wills...While this is not a subject we care to give thought to, it is
important to address this now for your peace of mind later. (Page 10)
Dancing...Dancing can bring you many benefits. Did you know dancing
is an excellent way of exercising. (Page 11)

Lise Fox Publisher

The Menopause Gang Newsletter
Contact: (441-297-0928
Email: menopausegang@hotmail.com

Bucket List Ideas for Women...There is no time like the present to make
a list of things you would like to do but have always put off. (Page 11)
Welcome to Inner Balance...Fiona writes about releasing the old energy
and bringing in the new with Reiki. (Page 12)

Website: www.themenopausegang.com

Editor

Health Benefits of Walking...Walking is by far the most popular form of

physical activity in the United States. (Page 12)

Carole Sousa

Contributors
Caroline Ivaliotis
Trish Wan
Dr. Danielle Marr
Bermuda Diabetic Association
Fiona Couper-Smith
Sherrie S. Outerbridge
Monica Jones
Louise Francoeur
Pauline Girling

All Your Office Needs...

machines
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In One Place

TOPS Ltd. was pleased to produce this

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Gang

11 Mill Creek Rd, Pembroke HM 05 | Web: www.tops.bm

Tel: 292-5500 | Fax: 292-6200 | E-mail: info@topsltd.bm

Disclaimer: The information set forth in this pamphlet is not in ANY way (either written or implied) to substitute for and/or give medical advice.
It is only intended to "share the emotional aspect of going through menopause".

Our Motto is...we will survive...

Tales from Trish

A FLURRY OF GRANDCHILDREN
I became a triple Grandma this year, welcoming our first grandson in April, then in June a twin granddaughter and
grandson! These were long-awaited and joyful events, however tinged with the regret that we were not 10 years
younger.
My daughter generously gave me her old i-Phone which wasnt too traumatic because Id been practicing my skills on
my hubbys superseded i-Pad. Ive now almost mastered the Smart phone, although initially I was reluctant to give up
my beloved dumb phone! I proceeded to rack up an overnight bill of $180 for data after inadvertently switching on Music
and being unable to stop it. The following afternoon the bill had escalated to $350 before I sought help and it was turned
off. Traps for new players, indeed.
The i-Phone has become my Grandmas Brag Book, where photos of the babies taken by the camera phone are stored
as attachments to emails, emailed to friends and air-dropped to their parents. My friends remain willing for me to show
them the latest photos of the children. Thus Im increasing my grasp of technology incrementally though how it all
works is still a mystery!
They (the babies, that is) have begun to coo and laugh, emulate sounds like yay and hullo (spoken by us in a cartoonlike voice), begun lifting their heads and shoulders, rolling, clasping and chewing their hands and batting toys hanging
above the play mat. With support my 4 months old grandson loves to use his little legs like springs and walks across
the table one foot after the other! He naturally has the art of walking and I foresee he may not bother to crawl. At 6
months, the oldest grandson has five razor sharp toothies and on command of GO will bounce up and down on
anyones knee riding horsie, rekindling those almost forgotten memories of our own children as they reached these
milestones.
Its a privilege to spend each day helping my daughter with the twins, feeding, changing poo-namies (think tsunami
and you get the idea of the poo which sometimes bypasses the diaper and envelops the entire body and Wondersuit.)
But especially its the wonderful bonding time of cuddles, standing up playtime, smiling, cooing, and the quiet time
when, wrapped in their Woombies, their eyes close as you rock them almost asleep and tuck them in.
In November we will undertake a week-long family excursion to Hong Kong: mum, dad, baby, Nanna, Grandma and
Grandpa, all happily ensconced in a plane for 9 hours, playing pass the parcel with a lively 7 month old. We know this
first boy child of a new generation will be swamped with attention from doting Great-Aunties and Uncles. Just say a
prayer that we older folk survive the heat as we pound the overcrowded pavements to sightsee and shop, sally forth
on underground trains for morning yum cha and catch taxis sans seat belts or baby seats (mandatory in Australia) to
enjoy evening banquets.
Of course we know the very best part of being grandparents, dont we? At the end of the day we can wave the babies
goodbye and head off for a good nights sleep!
Update: Since 'It's Not Okay', my piece on domestic violence, a coroner has ruled it unforeseen that Luke Batty would
be murdered by his father, who has psychological issues and committed suicide in jail. Rosie was assured her son
hadn't died in vain in light of new initiatives to protect the innocent.
Cont'd on page 4

Tales from Trish

Our Motto is...we will survive...

Cont'd from page 3

- 100 people rallied at an I Stand Up board paddle in Currumbin, Queensland. Large crowds assembled in
major cities in support.
- High profile football players released TV ads asking violent men (cowards) to seek help, man up, and
change their attitudes.
- A teenager whose mother was murdered by her dad when she was 11 received an award for speaking
publicly about crimes occurring behind closed doors.
- A change of Prime Minister saw the budget for domestic violence assistance increased by 100 million
dollars for initiatives to increase victims safety and for refuges.
Statistics revealed that in Australia between January and September 2015, 65 women and children were murdered
in acts of domestic violence. If annually 65 Aussie military men and women were killed in combat in the Middle East
there would be outrage, so can we continue to ignore domestic carnage?

Note from the publisher:

I was blessed over the holidays to have my little granddaughter spend some time with us. She is
the light of my life and I never thought that being a 'Nana' would be so special and bring so much
joy to my life. Can't wait to have another one from out West...Hint!...Hint!

Contact Tracey Caswell

to purchase these books at:
Email: tracey@logic.bm

Our Motto is...we will survive...

Lines from Caroline

Are Your Time Management Skills Causing You Stress?
Stress is a state of emotional strain caused by taxing situations. It is normal to experience stress in daily life. Luckily,
the body is equipped with an alarm system that produces protective hormones to respond to it. Everyone experiences
stress but too much causes illness in the body. Therefore, it is necessary to recognize what triggers stress in your life
and learn how to manage them.
According to The American Psychological Association, 75% of adults surveyed reported experiencing moderate to high
levels of stress daily and that it is a top health concern for high school students in the United States. According to The
Regus Group, all major global economies are experiencing increased workplace stress. China's workplace stress has
risen 86%. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence reports that approximately 13.7 million working
days are lost each year as a result of it.
When the body recognizes stress it goes into 'fight or flight' mode. The adrenal glands become stimulated and adrenaline
and cortisol hormones are released. Adrenaline increases the heart rate and blood pressure and cortisol increases
glucose. A chemical reaction takes place that helps the body cope with the stress. When the body senses that the threat
is no longer present it returns back to normal. If the body is experiencing chronic stress one may experience headaches,
chest pain, back and neck pain, stomach issues and insomnia. If stress is not managed serious health conditions can
develop such as anxiety, depression, cancer, digestion and heart disorders.
A positive attitude is the first step in managing stress. Surround yourself with positive people, places and things. Come
to grips with the fact that you can't control all the stressors in your life but you can control your reaction to them.
Reduce obligations and prepare for the unexpected. Allocate time for traffic and last minute family duties. Relax,
strengthen your immune system with plenty of sleep, nutritious food, exercise and relaxation techniques such as yoga,
massage and meditation.
Just say No! There is a fine line between being charitable and foolish. When your personal and professional plate is full,
its full! It is O.K. to give yourself permission to decline requests. Strangely enough, when you set boundaries those
around you will respect and appreciate your present generous nature. Saying No may also help you to balance and enjoy
a manageable plate.
Triage your to do list. Handle time sensitive and important tasks first. Let the dishes sit in the sink overnight and pay
your bills that are due tomorrow. The dishes can wait. Believe me the dishes are not going anywhere.
Chronic complainers have a knack of seeking out people who have an 'open door policy'. Whether these selfish people
are co-workers or friends and family, politely let them know when you are busy working on time-sensitive matters and
have deadlines to meet. Offer to schedule a short time to speak with them on a future date and time. Let them know that
you would prefer not to discuss issues that you have already commented on. Your time is valuable, don't give it away.
Time cannot be put on hold. Once its used it is gone forever. Time like health cannot be bought or reversed. Manage
your time, take care of yourself and watch your stress melt away.

Our Motto is...we will survive...

BERMUDA CANCER & HEALTH CENTER HOME PAGE

Divine Nature and Inspirations

Our Motto is...we will survive...

By Monica Jones

Emancipation is celebrated every year at Cup Match and it's noticeable how everyone is happy but I wonder what it was
like back in 1834? What actually happened? One minute people were required to work for nothing and the next they
were free having wanted and longed for freedom to be free to make decisions, for their children not to be in bondage.
Free to work for a salary, to provide their own accommodation, to make their own decisions and to move at will. I suspect
many freedoms were not exercised simply because the habit of "being free" hadn't been formed yet. I've realised that
I can't imagine what it was like but I have thought about it in the limited context of my own life growing up in a family where
women were classed as inferior. The definition of success for women was to marry. To elevate, or at least not to diminish,
the status of the family. Women were made whole by men. We were weak, soft and needed protection. Women who
didn't marry were labelled as "old maids/spinsters" i.e. as inferior, flawed and incomplete. Women were to defer to men
as we clearly didn't have as many brains.
In my teen years I fought this belief system: rebelled and raged against it as I pursued a career to prove I had a brain,
I was capable and as good as or better than men.
The few female role models in the business world were often divorced women who'd been forced to find a way to support
themselves and their families. They had to be tough to navigate in a man's world.
In my younger years I thought I'd emancipated myself from feeling inferior or less than men. I thought I had my own true
voice but even now in my 60's I'm still uncovering and liberating myself from my own thought patterns which tell me I'm
not adequate.
To have my own opinions. To create my own vision. To be wiling to learn about "stuff" I've always thought was nothing
to do with me. Like house renovations men's work. Men's decisions. But I have strong views and a vision of my own.
One I'm learning to express. Haltingly at times because I don't know the language of construction. Uncertainty at times,
because I'm learning about electronics men's stuff but I'm fascinated to think it's not as difficult as I thought.
I was learning not to be afraid to ask questions, such as: "When you say these words, what do you mean?" "What does
this word mean in this context?" to not feel stupid for asking questions which are obvious to other people but not to me.
In the early days of our marriage I used to rebel, argue and try to prove I'm right. He wasn't better than me. I held onto
this thought for years. I rarely doubted it. Eventually it started to fall away. I started noticing little cracks flaws how
human he was. After I got over my disappointment I moved into acceptance and eventually saw him again as wholly
human.
Emancipation is not only for the person in need of freedom, it also gives the "oppressor" permission to be fully human
i.e. to be flawed, to make mistakes and to be equal.
No society can be healthy while we dwell on ideas of superiority and inferiority. Rather we have to celebrate and embrace
differences of all types, to focus on the potential of each person and throw away labels.
Labels keep us stuck. They can make us feel secure, but the main purpose they serve is to limit the human experiences
and then we're not living fully. This applies no matter what age we are.
The moral to today's story is simply this: If there's something you think you can't do and you're presented with the
opportunity to "try" don't shy away. Seek help and advice and go for it. You may find a new love.

Monica Jones is a Bermudian artist and writer. Monica paints in pastel, charcoal and encaustic. She lives in Ber- muda with
her husband Arthur (lifelong sweetheart and supporter) and three ducks. Monica has three children, two grandchildren, a son
and daughter-in-law and grew up in Paget, Bermuda.
Contact info: email runaway@northrock.bm if you would like to receive regular newsletters from the author and be added to
the mailing list.
Cell: 441-332-2753...Website: http://www.monicajonesartist.com Copyright Monica (Smith) Jones

Inside Out Wellness Center

Our Motto is...we will survive...

By Dr. Danielle Marr

Medical Acupuncture Another Way To Regulate An Overactive Nervous System

When Medical Acupuncture (aka Neuro-functional Acupuncture) became the new treatment modality practiced by many
chiropractors, I decided I should get my certification to have as another "tool in the belt" yet another way to help my
patients. Traditional Chinese Medicine has been around for thousands of years, and for so many reasons, it works. Many
people have a hard time fully understanding some of Traditional Chinese Medicine theories (the energy flow, and the
'Chi'), but when breaking it down to simple body science, it's easier to make sense of how these little needles can have
such a large impact on the way our nervous system functions.
The Benefits:
Improved blood flow if you put a needle in a tissue (i.e.; muscle tissue), it improves blood flow to the area: improved
blood flow = improved function!
If a muscle is in spasm, acupuncture will help it to relax.
If a muscle is not firing properly, adding a gentle current of electric stimulation will help to encourage more of the muscle
fibers to contract (Contemporary Medical Acupuncture includes adding electric stimulation to the needles to increase
the benefits of regular acupuncture on its own).
Certain systemic points encourage our body to release endorphins our "feel good" hormones we could all use a
little more of those! (Note: mood regulation).
Acupuncture helps to normalize an over active nervous system need I say more when it comes to a menopausal
body!?!
Hot flashes, sleep disturbances, night sweats, mood changes, weight gain/slowed metabolism, etc. are all symptoms
that may stem from a change in hormones, but also have an effect on every other system in our body. Acupuncture
needles can reach spots our fingers and hands cannot. Acupuncture can be used functionally for conditions of the
muscles and joints, or systemically for a full body effect needed with more complex conditions (ie: menopause). It all
comes back to trying to bring the body back to a state of balance if it's overactive, that system is down regulated; if
it's underactive, it's stimulated). Acupuncture used in addition to chiropractic adjustments is an excellent way to help
target full body, systemic changes related to not only menopause, but many other life transitions that can affect multiple
body systems.
Note from the Publisher:
I have enjoyed this treatment over the years with
no ill effect especially
when I was in menopause.

Danielle Marr: After her undergraduate studies in the Honours Kinesiology program at Wilfrid Laurier University, Dr. Marr went on
to obtain her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto. She furthered her education
by obtaining her diploma in Contemporary Medical Acupuncture from McMaster University and has been certified as an ART (Active
Release Techniques) provider. As an ISSA Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition coach, Dr. Marr is a strong advocate for healthy
living. She currently practices out of Inside Out Wellness Centre in Hamilton, Bermuda Contact: 296-2225 Inside Out Wellness
Centre 4th Floor Dallas Building, 7Victoria Street, Hamilton HM11

Our Motto is...we will survive...

Bermuda Diabetes Association Page

5 Simple Steps to a Healthier You in 2016
1. Feed yourself within 2 hours of waking up! Skipping breakfast is a major stumbling block to
losing weight and believe it or not is also a trigger for blood sugar problems. Eating breakfast on a
regular basis will help boost your metabolism and sets you up for better food choices for the rest of
the day. If you are not a breakfast eater, even a small meal of fruit, or toast and peanut butter is a
good start. Try to include a fruit, wholegrain carbohydrate and a low fat protein choice in your
breakfast to get a good nutritious start in the morning.
2. Make a swop to fruits or vegetables at snack time. When feeling hungry, grab a piece of fruit
or cut veggies instead of chips or cookies as a snack. You will make a huge saving in calories, not
to mention increasing your nutrient intake. Many of us need to add more servings of fruit and
vegetables in our diet, and to turn to these at snack times is always a healthy option. If you feel you
don't have the time to peel or cut, go with pre-cut packages that are available in many grocery stores.
Use some low fat yogurt or hummus as a dip to give you extra calcium and protein as well.
3. Replace at least one of your favourite grain products with its whole wheat version. Dietary
guidelines recommend increasing our intake of whole wheat and wholegrain products. This will not
only increase daily fibre intake, but also provide an array of antioxidants not found in fruits and
vegetables. The easiest way to do this is to replace refined grain products such as breads, pasta
and rice for their wholegrain counterparts. If you bake, substitute up to half the white flour with whole
wheat pastas and brown and wild rice mixes which make a healthy grain alternative to include at
mealtimes.
4. Give up the sodas and non-nutritive sweet drinks. Regular sodas and many other sweet drinks
offer nothing but empty calories in the form of sugar and lots of it. One serving of soda a day can
increase your risk of Type 2 Diabetes by almost 25%. Give sweet drinks up for good and substitute
water as your healthiest option to reduce calorie intake and prevent chronic disease. For a change
drink herbal teas, regular tea and coffee in sensible amounts, or a glass of low fat milk for additional
protein and calcium. If you are having a hard time giving up juice, take a small amount, 4 oz and fill
the rest of the glass with water or sparkling water for a reduced sugar alternative.
5. Try to make physical activity a part of every day! We hear of the benefits of exercise constantly
to lose weight, boost metabolism, lower blood sugar and blood pressure and generally increase
energy levels and sense of well-being. Many of us feel we do not have time to exercise daily but look
at ways at how you can make your day more active. Take stairs wherever you can instead of
elevators, run an errand yourself at lunchtime, get off the bus earlier or park and walk further just
to get to where you have to go. When starting an exercise, choose a time that suits you, although
often time best to do it first thing in the morning to not let anything get in the way as an excuse not
go! Find an activity you enjoy and enroll a friend to join you to keep your interest up and support each
other. Studies have shown that 150 minutes of exercise a week, 30 minutes 5 days a week, helps
siginificantly to prevent people diagnosed with Prediabetes from developing Type 2 Diabetes.
Just get moving!

10

LIVING WILLS

Our Motto is...we will survive...

By Sherrie S. Outerbridge

While this is not a subject we care to give thought to, it is IMPORTANT TO ADDRESS THIS NOW
FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND LATER.
It should first be noted that a Living Will does not cover issues of financing and/or property. It is about HOW YOU WANT
TO BE TREATED IN THE EVENT THAT YOU CANNOT SPEAK FOR YOURSELF. It is a legal document that speaks
on your behalf when you are medically incapacitated.
A Living Will is accompanied by a Declaration which confirms the choices you have made, in advance. It should be
reviewed regularly and changes made where applicable at that time. The document can also be revoked (cancelled).
In the event you do not make any changes or do not cancel the Living Will while capacitated, the document remains
legally binding from the date it was signed until and unless revoked. Hence the need to review on a regular basis.
Think About It: Would your spouse/children be able to agree about my treatment going forward? If left to the children
would they agree or would their lack of agreement (for any given reason love and emotional ties inclusive) dominate
the prolonging of my life, against my silent desire?
So What Do You Want and Under What Circumstances?
- Life continuing or sustaining treatment
- Nursing Care if at all; to what extent; at home or a facility; by an individual
- Faith requirements do you want your Minister to visit and pray for you
- Who can visit me and who would I prefer not to visit me
- Do I want to be an organ donor (if not one or do I want to discontinue)
- Funeral arrangements
Then have the document drawn up and witnessed. Ensure that a copy is given to your family, doctor and lawyer. A copy
should also remain with your official documents so there is no question should the issue arise.
We take the time on other matters such as financing, meal preparation and vacations, on a regular basis. Why not take
the time to think about your medical future? Give yourself the comfort of knowing you are still in control of your life despite
being unable to communicate.
**Please consult your attorney for comprehensive legal advice on this subject matter. This article is submitted to inform
you of your medical options, only.
(AYS ASSOCIATES - Ad attached to this page)

11

Dancing

Our Motto is...we will survive...

By Louise Francoeur

Through the years, dancing has always been part of the human specie. It was part of rituals, ceremonies, gatherings,
celebrations etc. Either it was to ask for rain or to be grateful for a good hunt or crop. To fall in love or to celebrate an
union.
Dancing can bring you many benefits. Did you know that dancing is an excellent way of exercising? It makes you move
your body from top to bottom. You move your feet, legs, hips, waistline, torso, arms, neck and head. Wow! That is a
total workout! If you dance a few minutes a day, say 20 minutes, it will help you lose those unwanted pounds. It will also
trim your waistline. As we get older, we tend to lose muscle density and even if I dislike to admit it, but yes, we become
more 'flabby'. Therefore it is very important to 'move it or lose it'. Go away wasted muscles, we want healthy ones. All
our lives we will need our muscles to support us so why not do it in a pleasant way by dancing.
Dancing will make you exercise your memory because you need to remember your steps and your different turns. So
while you dance, Alzheimer will have to wait! Remember the old saying: a healthy mind in a healthy body! While you
dance, you help your blood circulation thus distributing more oxygen to your heart, lungs and brain. The music will bring
back some nice memories and will bring a smile to your lips and if the memory is not so good well, change the music.
You can dance alone, with your spouse, with a friend or with several friends. If you are alone, it will make you happy
and will make you forget your daily problems. If it is with your spouse, it can be a nice romantic moment. With friends,
it will turn into a party moment. However you look at it, it will be a pleasant and positive time that will bring you so many
benefits. And guess what, it is free and you can do it in the comfort of your home. You can dance to the music you like
and to the rhythm you enjoy and at the speed you want.
I love to dance and I hope you do too. Keep on dancing and be happy.
Note from the Publisher: I have known Louise for 60 years. She is a very energetic person who loves to live
life to the fullest. Louise retired in 2014 and hasn't looked back. She's in the process of selling her house and
moving on to a new chapter in her life. I am proud to call her my friend. "Continue to be yourself, never change..."

BUCKET LIST IDEAS FOR WOMEN by Lise Fox

My bucket list idea for the new year will be learning how to play Squash. Since I'm on a health kick I figured why not
try it. I also want to learn sign language. Here are some other 'Bucket List Ideas' that you might enjoy trying:
Ride a gondola in Venice Travel alone Take one photo a day for a year Go on a road trip Learn a new language
Ride a Segway Take a cooking class Take dance lessons Make a difference in at least one person's life Learn
to meditate Learn to knit Volunteer at an animal shelter....
The possibilities are endless. Visit www.bucklist.net for ideas.

Our Motto is...we will survive...

12

Welcome to Inner Balance Bermuda

by Fiona Couper-Smith

Releasing the old energy and bringing in the new with Reiki.
New year, a time when we are all thinking about what the next year will hold. A chance to start afresh, a clean slate.
Goals and new ideas are created. This is the time to clear out the old energy, negative thoughts and clutter, leaving space
to draw in the new.
One thing I've found with Reiki and Reflexology (both energy therapies) is that they can help support and change you
in positive ways.
Reiki is a gentle non-invasive therapy where the hands are placed on or sometimes just above the body in either a
sequence following the chakras or used on known injuries or areas of concern. The experience can feel different each
time depending on your needs and the current level of your health or stress levels. You don't need to be unwell to have
Reiki. The body has its own wisdom and will use Reiki energy to balance and stimulate its own body systems.
What to expect from a Reiki treatment. A consultation form can be filled in with medical, allergy and lifestyle concerns.
You need to wear light comfortable clothing as you don't need to undress as with massage. You lie on your back on the
massage couch with pillows under your head and knees. You may be asked to turn over partway through the session.
Gentle music is played and you will be covered with a light sheet or blanket to keep warm. This is a nurturing treatment.
You just relax and close your eyes.
What it may feel like to you. Some people fall asleep. Others feel like they have been meditating. The practitioner's hands
may feel very warm or even hot and occasionally cool. Reiki may be subtle or intense usually leaving you feeling
peaceful, relaxed, balanced and grounded. Reiki has been known to reduce pain, anxiety, fatigue and support recovery
after injury or surgery.
I had a session the other day from a lovely friend of mine. Afterwards my head and eyes felt clearer, my chest lighter
(just had a bit of a cough) and I just felt peaceful. It is a great way to be mindful, to be in the moment and connect to
your higher self. This helps you to see the things you need to let go of, the ones that are not serving you, so you can
move forward in your life.
Bio: Fiona is a Bermudian with over 21 years experience as a holistic therapist, trained in Wales and England in various Massage
disciplines, Reflexology, Hot Stones, Nutrition and Reiki. Her practice Inner Balance Bermuda is an oasis of calm providing natural
therapies to support your health and wellbeing.
Contact: 333-5514 www.InnerBalanceBermuda.com

HEALTH BENEFITS OF WALKING By healthinfocus.net

Walking is by far the most popular form of physical activity in the United States.
Benefits: Weight loss Increase metabolism Healthier heart Increased self-esteem Tone muscles Increase
energy Stronger bones and joints Relieve stress Strengthens immune system.
Exercising in Nature: Fresh air has more oxygen Greenscapes raise serotonin levels Triggers primal regions of our
brain and psyche More sensory stimulation Increases feelings of well-being and lowers depression Sun exposure
increases Vitamin D levels and helps optimize hormones.
Thought to reduce the risk of: Coronary heart disease Strokes Diabetes High blood pressure Bowel cancer
Osteoporosis.
Walking has too many well proven benefits to skip out on. It's free, and all you need is the time invested and some pretty
good shoes to start. Walking, along with a well balanced diet, does wonders for your metabolism...and you can always
use the fresh air.