Category Archives: Health & Wellness

Does your mind wander? During a class or meeting, do you find yourself staring out the window and thinking about what you’ll do tomorrow or next week?  Daydreaming gets a pretty bad rap.  Unfortunately, history hasn’t been so kind to daydreaming.  In the 1960’s, psychology textbooks warned teachers that students who daydreamed were headed for psychosis.

The truth is we spend 50% of our walking lives daydreaming.

Psychological research is beginning to reveal that daydreaming is a strong indicator of an active and well-equipped brain.  A new study, published in Psychological Science by researchers from the University of Wisconsin and the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Science, suggests that a wandering mind correlates with higher degrees of what is referred to as working memory. Cognitive scientists define this type of memory as the brain’s ability to retain and recall information in the face of distractions.

When you daydream you are actually giving your mind a workout. An area of the brain called the “default network,” is this area that is often considered accountable for daydreaming.  It becomes more active as the stimulus level diminishes. During a daydream the mind is very active. Marcus Raichle, a neurologist at Washington University, illustrates this concept;  “When you don’t use a muscle, that muscle isn’t doing much, but when your brain is supposedly doing nothing and daydreaming, it’s doing a tremendous amount of work. Scientists call it a resting state, but the brain is not at rest at all.”  Mind wandering isn’t free—it takes resources

Daydreaming is part of a healthy mind—studies show people with autism or Alzheimer’s disease have problems with daydreaming.

Below are some benefits of daydreaming.

Enhanced Memory

According to the American Psychological Association, imagining something from a personal perspective can be an effective way to recall specific information on command. As a result,imagination could help in memory rehabilitation for those who may have suffered from impairments due to a brain injury.

Creativity

 
Non-directed thinking might lead you to concrete, creative outcomes. Daydreaming leads to intangible forms of creativity. It is useful for your work life.  In 2011, neuroscientists found that daydreaming involves the same brain processes associated with imagination and creativity.

Empathy

Research published in Psychological Bulletin indicates that people who daydream are more likely to have empathy. Studying Israeli high school students, researchers observed that students with high scores on the Daydreaming Scale of the IPI demonstrated more empathy than students who scored low on the scale. Spend more time daydreaming, and you just might become a more compassionate person.

Self Discovery

Since the time of Socrates it has been thought that coming to know ourselves is both a major goal and the foundation of all truly successful learning. We can think about daydreaming as carrying out a dialogue with ourselves and self discovery.

Better Mood

You find serenity by reliving pleasant experiences. You can imagine yourself engaging in virtually any enjoyable endeavour. This type of mental escape allows you to recharge and improve your mood.

Coconut oil is one of the few foods that can be classified as a “superfood.”  It has unique combination of fatty acids can have profound positive effects on health.  This includes fat loss, better brain function and various other amazing benefits.

Recent studies are showing that saturated fats are harmless. Many massive studies that include hundreds of thousands of people prove that the whole “artery-clogging” idea was a myth.  Coconut oil doesn’t contain your average run-of-the-mill saturated fats like you would find in cheese or steak.  they contain so-called Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs) – which are fatty acids of a medium length.  Medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil are metabolized differently.  They go straight to the liver from the digestive tract, where they are used as a quick source energy or turned into so-called ketone bodies, which can have therapeutic effects on brain disorders like epilepsy and Alzheimer’s.

Here are the top 8 health benefits of coconut oil that have been confirmed in human studies.

1. Weight Loss – Given that coconut oil can reduce appetite and increase fat burning, it makes sense that it can also help you lose weight.  It contains short and medium-chain fatty acids that help in taking off excessive weight. It increases the body’s metabolic rate by removing stress on the pancreas, thereby burning more energy and helping obese and overweight people lose the weight.
2. Immune System – Coconut oil is also good for the immune system. It strengthens the immune system because it contains antimicrobial lipids, lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid which have antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties. The human body converts lauric acid into monolaurin which research has supported as an effective way to deal with viruses and bacteria that cause diseases like herpes, influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even HIV.
3. Increase Energy – It is a fact that different foods affect our bodies and hormones in different ways. In this regard, a calorie is NOT a calorie.  The medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in coconut oil can increase energy expenditure compared to the same amount of calories from longer chain fats.  One study found that 15-30 grams of MCTs per day increased 24 hour energy expenditure by 5%, totalling about 120 calories per day.
4. Hair Care – Many people are using it for cosmetic purposes and to improve the health and appearance of their skin and hair.  It helps in healthy growth of hair and gives your hair a shiny quality.
5. Skin Care – Coconut oil is an excellent massage oil for the skin as well. It acts as an effective moisturizer on all types of skin, including dry skin. The benefit of coconut oil on the skin is comparable to that of mineral oil.  Study shows effectiveness as sunscreen, blocking about 20% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays
6. Boost Brain Function – In Alzheimer’s  patients, there appears to be a reduced ability to use glucose for energy in certain parts of the brain.  In one 2006 study, consumption of medium chain triglycerides led to immediate improvement in brain function in patients with milder forms of Alzheimer’s.
7. Dental Care – If you’re looking for a natural alternative to regular toothpaste, try going the DIY route. Your plan: Mix coconut oil with baking soda until it’s pasty enough to spread on a toothbrush.
8. Oil Substitute – Lightly coat the bottom of your skillet with coconut oil to create a non-stick surface and delicious eggs or the next time you make your favorite brownie recipe, replace the vegetable oil with coconut oil. Your friends will be begging you for the recipe

This is really just the tip of the iceberg. People are using coconut oil for all sorts of things with incredible success.

If you want to buy coconut oil products, then there is an excellent selection at The Vixen Boutique.

As you know it is Breast Cancer awareness month and we continue our support by facilitating vital information to keep you healthy.  Below are some lifestyle advice that may seem  like common knowledge but it is the simple things in life that we must pay attention to that keep us alive and optimize life.

So take a second, think and ask yourself, can I do any of these things better?

1. Stay Physically Active – As simple as walking each evening, making sure you walk a minimum amount of steps per day will result in long term benefits.
2. Know Your Family History – Knowing yourself is very important.  Fortunately we are not all the same, some people are more prone to diseases than others.  Know what you can do from what you can’t and live life responsibly.
3. Stay Away From Tobacco Products – Although this may seem like common knowledge there are still millions of smokers and with smokers comes second hand smoke affecting more people.
4. Eat Healthy – It is a known fact that what goes in your body is imperative to how you will look and feel.  Eating a more alkaline based diet provides you with the antioxidants that are needed for cancer prevention.
5. Alcohol Intake – Although the enjoyment of alcohol very much a part of our culture, moderating and balancing your intake is a wise choice.
6. Protect Your Skin – Everyone loves the sun!  However excessive exposure to UV rays not only make you look older but puts you at risk for skin cancer, always wear sunscreen.
7. Your Weight – Maintaining a healthy body weight for your body size throughout out your life will make you look and feel good but is also a strategy for cancer prevention.
8. Regular Check-Ups – It is always emphasized that regular check-ups and cancer screenings are important as early detection is always the best scenario for cancer remission.  View Full Screening Guideline
9. Stress – Last but not least, and the  most underrated. Limit Stress!  Psychological Stress  whether it be mental, physical or emotional pressure induce the  destructive behaviour that lead to cancer.  All the distractions of the world is never worth your most important asset, your health.

It is now Breast Cancer Awareness month and it is important to know that Breast Cancer on average claims the lives of 14 Canadian women each day and continues to be the most common cancer among women.

Today marks the start of our ManiCURES campaign.  At Vixen Nails & Spa we have joined the fight.  For the month of October, we are doing our part by donating a portion of all the proceeds from all Shellac Manicures to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Also, we are not limiting the fight to only women, men are being challenged to join the fight by painting their nails pink.

Spread the word to all your friends and family and join us in the fight to find a cure for breast cancer by indulging in a manicure for a great cause!

Book Your Appointment Now!

The essence of Yoga lies in the mobilisation of all elements of your being and harmonising these elements as a way of influencing an individual to transcend carnal desires and aim for greater levels of satisfaction. In essence, Yoga drives you towards ultimate freedom attained through practice and self-discipline. Outlined here are 8 of the incredible benefits of Yoga.

1. The art of yoga promotes harmony between your spiritual, physical, and mental being in a way that cannot be achieved by any other method. This allows you to have a fulfilling existence free from common stressors.
2. Yoga motivates you to achieve optimal performance in your abilities through the attainment of ultimate freedom. When you are able to function beyond carnal needs you can have the opportunity to maximize your talents rather than worry about your weaknesses.
3. Meditating promotes self-consciousness; this allows you to get in touch with you the person in an amazing and energising way.
4. If you have thoughts wandering all over your mind constantly, rhythmic yoga breathing and meditation will enable you to organise your thoughts more effectively by triggering the parasympathetic nervous system.
5. Illnesses caused by stress and depression can be healed through Yoga exercises and meditation; Yoga provides a safe outlet for stress and depression through a range of techniques including rhythmic breathing and exercises thereby promoting self-healing.
6. By allowing you to concentrate on your talents, yoga meditations actually help protect your mind from negative ideas that could ravage your mind and harm your self-confidence.
7. Yoga breathing techniques can help you get over anxiety and tension in difficult situations thereby freeing your mind to respond appropriately and as you would wish to.
8. Yoga trains your body and mind to exercise self-control so that you are always in control over what you think and the activities you engage in; this contributes towards a holistic and healthy existence.

In essence, Yoga is the simplest method in attaining combined physical, spiritual, and mental health.

Sleep, a task very important to our health and well being.  But did you know it can tell you a lot more about your relationship? A survey conducted by University of Hertfordshire psychologist Richard Wiseman asked more than 1,000 people about their sleeping habits and quality of their relationship. Here are the results:

• 42% sleep back to back
• 31% sleep facing the same direction
• 12% sleep less than an inch apart
• 4% sleep facing each other
• 2% sleep more than 30 inches apart

Apparently, couples that sleep the closest together are the happiest in their relationships.  Touching during sleep was also found to be a significant indicator of relationship quality among couples. Below are the most popular sleeping positions and the meaning.

1. Spooning – Partners touching while laying on the sides facing the same direction. The male takes the lead and protects his partner.
2. The Liberty – Back to back but not touching. This couple feels connected but they are independent enough to sleep separately. They know each other’s sleeping habits and accept them.
3. Bottom Hugger – Sleep on their sides with only their bottoms touching is showing they give each other a space in their relationship without the fear of losing the other. This position suggests you are very intimate and while you want to be sexually connected, you show your desire to be independent.
4. Pillow Talk – Face to face with no touching. This position represents an intimate need for one-to-one contact and conversation in bed.
5. The Snuggle – Man lying on back with the woman’s head and arm on his chest. This position indicates craving attention or a domination submissive relationship. This position can also indicate one partner offering comfort and safety to another during a tough time.
6. The Love Knot – Face to face with legs intertwined for 10 minutes, then couple separate to sleep. This position demonstrates a loving independence, and is a sign of intimacy, love and sexual activity.
7. The Honeymooners – This romantic position shows that you are new to the relationship. It is unrealistic because it restricts blood flow to the arms. Honeymoon huggers cannot get enough of each other. They want to face each other even in sleep. If your partner hasn’t been facing you, and they start facing you as you go to sleep, it indicates the need to be intimate and connect.

Research indicates that the longevity of marriage is enhanced when couples sleep and wake up at the same time. It shows that they are content in their relationship. Every relationship has ups and downs and learning to read body language and sleeping position can tell you about your intimate feelings in your relationship.

The next time you eat a piece of chocolate, do not feel so guilty.  As you may know there are a number of health benefits that come with indulging in this delicious treat.  Chocolate is made from plants, which means it contains many of the health benefits of dark vegetables. After the discovery of the Americas, chocolate became very popular in Europe, and its demand exploded.  Chocolate is made from tropical Theobroma Cacao tree seeds. The earliest use of chocolate dates back to the Olmec civilization in Mesoamerica.  The secret behind its powerful punch is cacao, also the source of the sweet’s distinct taste. Study after study proves that dark chocolate—sweet, rich, and delicious—is good for more than curing a broken heart.  But what effects does eating chocolate have on our health?  Below are some of the benefits of chocolate, if taken diligently, can be used to as a medicine rather than a guilty indulgence.

PAD (Peripheral Artery Disease) A  condition producing severe pain when walking any distance, for any length of time.  This Study closely looked at patients who consumed 40 grams of 85% chocolate and it was found that only after 2 hours patients were able to significantly increase both their distance and walking speed!  Why would this work?  The principle cause of PAD is actually restricted blood flow in the peripheral arteries, and high cocoa chocolate can measurably improve blood flow.  Also, another reason for chocolate’s pain reducing properties is that – like the drugs naproxen, ibuprofen, and aspirin – the cocoa in chocolate is strongly anti-inflammatory with a lot less side effects like stomach ulcers and gastric erosions.

Brain Power Next time you’re under pressure on a work project, don’t feel so guilty about grabbing a dark chocolate bar from the vending machine. Not only will it help your body ward off the effects of stress, but it’ll boost your brain power when you really need it. Other researchers from Oxford University and Norway looked at chocolate’s long-term effects on the brain by studying the diets of more than 2,000 people over age 70. They found that those who consumed flavanol-rich chocolate, wine, or tea scored significantly higher on cognitive tests than those who didn’t.

Diarrhea Relief Both South American and European cultures have a history that dates back to the 16th century of treating diarrhea with cocoa. Modern-day science has shown they were onto something.  Scientists at the Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute found that cocoa flavonoids bind to a protein that regulates fluid secretion in the small intestine, potentially stopping the trots in their tracks.

Helps PMS Craving certain foods, such as chocolate, at that time of the month is for a reason, chocolate releases calming endorphins that reduce anxiety. Plus, it’s high in magnesium which lifts moods and reduces water retention. But overindulging in sugar, salt and caffeine can backfire, causing bloating and fluid retention (not to mention weight gain). Try one of these recipes to get your chocolate fix the healthy way:

• Banana Bread with Chocolate and Crystallized Ginger
• Chocolate Raspberry Brownie Bites
• Spicy Chocolate Energy Bars

Improve Your Skin London researchers recently tested chocolate flavanols’ sun-protecting prowess. After 12 weeks eating chocolate with high levels of flavanols, their study subjects’ skin took twice as long to develop that reddening effect that indicates the beginning of a burn.  The compounds in chocolate act as UV filters,  after 12 weeks, the chocolate eaters’ skin was 16 percent denser and 42 percent less scaly. So the next time you indulge in the world’s most popular treat,  do it wisely and enjoy the benefits!

Everyone knows the easy and fast way to lose weight without work is to speed up your metabolism!  This is very true but it’s time separate the truths from the myths.  You may not realize it, but when you are bumming around on the couch; your body is working hard to burn calories.  The key is to speed it up so it is burning the maximum number of calories!

Men tend to burn more calories than women, even while resting. And for most people, metabolism slows steadily after age 40. Although you can’t control your age, gender, or genetics, there are other ways to improve your metabolism.

Here are 10 easy ways to increase your metabolism.

1.  Eat Breakfast, but it must be within an hour of waking up!  Your metabolism has been in rest mode all night and breakfast is the best way to rev it up!  Eat foods with high fibre and protein like whole grain, low fat milk, eggs and berries will give your metabolism the kick start it needs to start the day.

2.  Eat Constantly, listen to your stomach, if its growling it needs fuel.  Not providing your body with food is a surefire way to slow down its basic functions.  Eating high-fiber, high-protein snacks like low-fat cheese, fiber crackers, fruits, veggies, or Greek yogurt.  Starving your body will sabotage all of your dieting efforts.

3.  Keep Hydrated – Yes it does sound like a broken record but it’s really important.  You need to stay hydrated for your body to function correctly.  Colder is better, Your body burns more calories in colder temperatures because it has to work harder to keep you warm—so by drinking cold water, you end up burning more than if you guzzled room-temp H20,” says Lisa Gain, Ph.D., evolutionary biologist and founder of snack-girl.com.

4.  Relaxation & Destress Yourself – Stress raises the amount of cortisol in your body. Cortisol is a hormone that tells the body to hold onto fat in case of a stressful situation.  Experiment with yoga or meditation or a few hours at Vixen® Nails & Spa are ways to lower stress levels and clear your mind.

5.  Sleep – Don’t forget your Zzzz’s!  – Getting a least seven to eight hours of sleep every night is crucial to a healthy metabolism. Anything less can adversely affect your body’s ability to burn calories.  However, excess sleep may do the same thing. It’s best to keep a consistent bedtime and wake up close to the same time every morning.

6.  Spicy Foods – Some studies suggest that eating spicy foods may boost your metabolism—so top your meals with chili peppers and Tabasco. Bonus: Spices are naturally fat-free, so there’s no need to stress about calorie counts.

7.  Sunlight – Research shows that when a person spends long periods of time in a darkened, dull environment, it stimulates the same physiological functions in the body as gaining weight and sleep. The best daylight hours are between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., so make it a point to get up from your desk and take a brisk walk outside.   Aside from soaking up rays, you’ll rev up your heart rate and benefit from the fresh air.

8.  Vitamin C – Vitamin C and calcium are partners in crime when it comes to your metabolic rate. Calcium speeds up metabolism, while vitamin C helps the body absorb this mineral, creating an overall win-win situation.

9.  Green Tea – Green tea is a rich source of antioxidants called catechins. And, in a study published in the Journal of Clinical Nutrition, drinking green tea combined with a total of three hours of moderate exercise a week reduced abdominal fat in subjects over a three-month period.

10.  Get Omega 3’s – Omega-3s balance blood sugar and reduce inflammation, helping to regulate metabolism. They may also reduce resistance to the hormone leptin, which researchers have linked to how fast fat is burned.  Fish such as tuna and salmon contain oil that increases leptin, which is a hormone responsible for controlling appetite.

Implement some of these strategies and speed up your metabolism today!