Healing House Natural Wellness
907 12th Street V3M 2V6 New Westminster, BC, Canada

Good Morning Friends of Healing House! We wanted to take the opportunity to introduce to you the second practitioner joining our team this month! We are so incredibly pleased to introduce Hannah Charron - Registered Holistic Nutritionist! Hannah is a previous student of both Tahlia Sage (Holistic Nutrition), and Petra Sovcov (Herbal Medicine). Hannah is a recent graduate from the Institute of Holistic Nutrition in Vancouver and will be joining us on a mentorship program as s...he begins her journey as a Certified Holistic Nutritionist. As we've mentioned above, Hannah is a certified nutrition practitioner (CNP), and also a registered yoga teacher. She completed her practitioner certification at The Institute of Holistic Nutrition (IHN), Canada’s industry leader in training nutrition professionals, at both the Ottawa & Vancouver campuses. Prior to registering at IHN, Hannah obtained her General Arts and Science certificate from Algonquin College, as well as accomplished two 200 hour Yoga Teacher Trainings, both in Sayulita Nayarit of Mexico and the second one on scholarship. Hannah has completed numerous hours of cooperative education under experienced nutritionists, 70 of which were held in Northern Nicaragua for a hands-on educational retreat in training and development. Here she focused food preparation and nutritional education for individuals attending the retreat. In the past, Hannah has experienced a history of severe anxiety, heavy medication use, high stress, disordered eating and being celiac, she knows first-hand about health challenges, and what it takes to heal from them. For her clients, she is highly dedicated to providing the support and education needed for those undergoing similar circumstances or anyone striving towards better health. Hannah’s health journey brought her to IHN and today she flourishes in her budding practice working with clients in Vancouver, as well as virtually. She is fascinated with the role of the gut/brain axis, and strives to educate clients on the link between the two. Her experience combined with her education helps her navigate others into a happy and healthful lifestyle. To follow Hannah individually, she can be found on instragram @hannahshealthies or to make an appointment, she can be reached by contacting the office at Healing House. Welcome Hannah! We look forward to nurturing your new endeavors!

Good Morning and Happy Tuesday! I wanted to take the opportunity to introduce one of two new practitioners who have recently joined us at Healing House! It is our absolute pleasure to introduce you to Jaycee Clarkson! Jaycee practices Ayurvedic Lymphatic Drainage. Jaycee studied Ayurvedic Lymphatic Drainage in Vancouver, BC with Tamméy Martin, master practitioner and teacher in eastern based whole body therapies, and Dr. Wendy Linehan, Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine. ...Wendy was trained by Dr. Light Miller, practitioner and co-founder of The Ayurvedic College for Well-Being, in Sarasota, Florida. Jaycee completed her certification in 2015 and has been practicing ever since. She is also a certified yoga instructor (Langara College 200 hour teacher training, 2015), and creates handcrafted skincare products from the plants she grows in her garden. Jaycee believes there is an innate wellness that lives in every individual she would love to help facilitate your wellness journey. To make an appointment with Jaycee, you can reach out to her directly on our webpage. Welcome Jaycee!!!

Updated learning article for natural support options for Polycystic Kidney Disease https://www.healinghouseherbal.com//natural-support-for-po

As a natural medicine practitioner, the ability to look at or find the root cause of an issue is often the beginning of an individuals path to healing. With many DNA tests today it is popular to find out more about individual lineage and background, this is of course important, but does not necessarily open the door to helping an individual who is suffering from a chronic health issue. However, there are DNA tests that offer a look at dietary health, mental health, exercise ...types, and endocrine markers, that are appropriate to an individual based off of their DNA. These various and individual markers are so incredibly helpful as a modality such as Clinical Herbalism focuses a tremendous amount on the chemical constituents of plants and knowing how to apply these to various health and wellness concerns. With modern health focused DNA testing such as DNA Power (based out of North Vancouver), the individual practitioner can see a variety of independent genetic markers, such as how an individual's body handles the inflammatory response, how they might metabolize or hold onto various hormones, how they may process and produce insulin, or how they may be able to absorb vitamins and minerals from foods. Having this knowledge allows us to be exceedingly accurate in our care plans. At Healing House both Petra Sovcov (Herbal Medicine) and Tahlia Sage (Holistic Nutrition) are trained and certified in individual DNA consulting through DNA Power, and both actively use it in their individual practice. For more information on this, please feel free to reach out to us at the clinic by going to www.healinghouseherbal.com Also, for further information on how DNA testing can guide a natural health practitioner, here is a small article by Clinical Herbalist Petra Sovcov https://www.dnapower.com/healing-house-natural-wellness/

For those who love to learn about herbs and their medicinal properties, here is a lovely little article. The following is a beautiful evidence based monograph on the herb Feverfew. Feverfew has traditionally been used for issues with rheumatoid arthritis and even fever. Yet, as science was able to further explore its variety of helpful constituents, we were able to apply it to things like migraine headaches. The following info contains traditional and historically sourced inf...ormation, but also information coming from clinical studies and patient trials.(Direct Link at the bottom) I hope you enjoy this bit of information, and as bonus, I've made it downloadable for reference sake. In Health and Wellness, Petra https://www.healinghouseherbal.com//understanding-herbs-fe

Self care can be something very simple like giving yourself time for exercise and nutritious meals, or as complex as seeking extended help for a chronic health related issue. The bottom line in all cases is that self care is about taking care of yourself, nurturing yourself, and loving yourself so that you can offer the world the best of yourself. So although today is Monday, think about one thing you can do this week to nurture your sense of well being, health, and calm. What does that look like to you?

One would think that the companies that seek to make us well and maintain our health would be cautious with their ingredients. This is unfortunately not the case. The wellness industry is a multi billion dollar per year business, and though many companies and practitioners do indeed seek to give their clients the best they can offer, there are still those who seek to make short cuts when it comes to quality. This can often be seen in many supplement products, so please be careful and read your labels. Some of our favorite brands include Genestra, Douglas Labs, and Pure Encapsulations.

For so many of us Monday starts our week, and for many more of us, Monday's can prove to be stressful and hectic. Right now, there is an overt abundance of situations that can lead to feelings of stress, overwhelm, depression, anxiety, and isolation. Because of this, it is so incredibly important that we each take the time to take care of ourselves. The most basic way to achieve this is from the foundation of our health, this being the food that we eat. Take the time to cons...ider what you put in your body with three meals a day, for seven days a week, over a year. It is very important for us to consider the compound effects of this. Are you choosing healthy and nutritious foods that lend to a healthy digestive tract and nervous system? Are you able to supply your body with good anti-inflammatory choices? For many this is a challenge, as often times the allure of saturated fats and the ease of convenience foods prove more readily available for our modern busy life style. If this is you, consider changing -one- nutrition habit. Maybe its giving up those fried chips, or that fast food restaurant. The wonderful thing about healthy choices is that one step often leads to another, and soon enough you are on your way to better health! However, if you feel that making these steps on your own is just too overwhelming, or if you don't have the knowledge in regard to healthy nutrition, Healing House is here to help you. We are fortunate to have multiple modalities and a variety of practitioners to match your needs, including holistic nutrition. So here is to Monday, and here is to your health!

For a lot of individuals with chronic health concerns, making changes, or even getting appropriate help can feel overwhelming and exhausting. Often times chronic issues rob us of our ability to advocate for ourselves, making us feel stuck or helpless. When seeing a client for the first time, I often focus on where they are now, and what they are capable to do. This allows me to hold space for them and to meet them where they are on their healing journey instead of pushing the...m towards something that may cause greater discomfort. Often times, these changes are small, and though many involve herbal medicine and supplements, I feel that often times the most important are the basic three: 1) Sleep 2) Nutrition 3) Movement Based on this, here are three easy tips to get you started where you are today! In health and wellness, Petra Sovcov - Herbal Medicine

It's September?! Already?! It feels as though summer just started, and we are already finding ourselves at the end. September 22nd marks the first day of fall and a shifting of the seasonal wheel as we head back into shorter days and longer nights. Fall is the time for changing colours on the trees, crisp mornings, and the rush to deal with the final tasks associated with harvest. At Healing House, September is when we plan all of our content for Fall and Winter and discuss a...ll of our wonderful up and coming free public webinars and events. I feel so blessed to have a group of truly dynamic and amazing practitioners all working together in one place. It really enlivens the dream of Healing House as a place of community where clients can make choices based off of their individual needs, and receive a wellness plan based not just on the easement of symptom relief, but to receive a plan that is truly holistic and tailored to them as we work together to strengthen them at the core, thus allowing the body to do what it does naturally, which is to heal. With the spirit of our client mission, I hope you enjoy this little sneak peak at what September has to offer at Healing House. I hope everyone is staying healthy and feels ready to embark into the changes and opportunities of fall. In health and wellness, - Your Practitioners at Healing House

In addition to our services with Herbal Medicine, Holistic Nutrition, and Mental Health Counselling, Healing House also offers custom Aromatherapy appointments, and relaxation therapy where we use sound, light, and custom aromatics to assist in guiding you to a far more relaxed state. This is a great option for individuals who are struggling with tension, stress, or feelings of anxiousness. So, what IS Aromatherapy? The term aromatherapy was first coined by French...Continue reading

You'll have to pardon our language on this one. However, it is so true! So many major life changes happen when we get tired of feeling bad, or tired of feeling sick, or tired of just being tired all the time! Our bodies are amazing and they tell us when there is a problem. Are you having consistent aches and pains? Chronic digestive issues? Chronic issues with sleep? General and constant feelings of malaise and low energy?... These feelings are not normal, they are your body telling you that something is off and its time to start making positive changes. Healing House is here to help!

Good Morning! Just a reminder that our talk on Natural Support Options for Depression and Anxiety is today from 1pm to 2:30pm. There are still a few slots available! https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/natural-support-options-for-dep

Nurturing ourselves regularly is like gardening. The small things we do regularly and diligently, will yield greater results later. Just like in gardening, when we regularly weed, water, prune, and care for our garden, it grows, flourishes, and blooms. The same thing can be said for our bodies, our minds, and our spirit. When we regularly nurture and take care of ourselves, we can have the peace of knowing that we are doing the best we can for our overall health. This is also so very true when we have a chronic health or wellness issue. When we regularly nurture ourselves, support our body to help it heal, or support our mind or spirit to give us balance, we arrive at the natural rhythm of health and healing. So don't neglect yourself, feed all the needed facets of -you- regularly and diligently.

Happy Friday! I was inspired recently when speaking to some of my students. There was commentary about the frustration behind learning their herbs and properties, and how to configure all the information into usable notes. Also, since there is quite an increased interest in individuals seeking and reading about herbal medicine, I think it is wise that even those seeking basic information have the ability to compile good, organized information. In saying this, I was inspired t...o create a blank monograph printable that contains places for all the information most important to learning herbs. In the following link you will find two free printables for learning herbs. One explains how to use the blank monograph, and the other is the form/blank monograph itself. I hope you enjoy and are able to learn more about the fascinating world of plant medicine! https://www.healinghouseherbal.com//free-printable-blank-m

It's a beautiful day today! Summer has finally arrived and the flowers are in bloom everywhere! This is a great time to introduce you to the medicinal qualities of Marshmallow (Althea officinalis). With its 2,000 year + documentation of medicinal uses, this amazing herbal ally is one of our most beloved for any ailments associated with the mucosal membrane of the body. Primarily used in digestive, upper respiratory, and skin ailments, marshmallow is so much more than a summer... flower. Read more about this amazing herb by clicking the link to our webpage and enjoy! https://www.healinghouseherbal.com//understanding-herbs-ma

We can do so much with mindfulness even on a daily basis. When we are mindful in our actions, we can slow down our busy thoughts. Often times, those of us who are stressed or anxious will find that being mindful and in the moment (paying attention to the things around us), can slow down our breathing, our heart rate, and lessen the sensations of stress and anxiety. Try this exercise on one task today. Slow down and simply pay attention to your actions, the moment, and all the... various senses you are employing in order to achieve the task. Let us know what you experience!

Good Morning and a Very Happy Monday to you! I was slightly hesitant in using this post for Motivational Monday, but then I thought a bit about all the times we get stuck. Perhaps we get stuck with bad thoughts or a negative outlook. Sometimes we get stuck in a situation with a toxic relationship, and sometimes, we don't take the best care of ourselves and potentially end up with a health issue. I find inspiration in this quote because no matter where we are in our path, we c...an make choices that can have a positive effect. The choice may not immediately change the situation, but good choices that serve us well can ultimately lead to positive change in all aspects of our lives. This is why, when I speak to clients, I often talk about taking responsibility for one's health and healing. It is a mindful and practiced choice that involves taking action and learning new skills. It may not be the immediate answer to a chronic issue, but more often than not, the individual finds positive changes in regard to their quality of life. So, choose yourself, choose your health, and make positive changes that support your best interest!

Happy Friday! I am so happy to share our July Webinar info on natural support options for depression and anxiety. This talk will feature clinical herbalist Petra Sovcov as she discusses the clinical presentation of depression and anxiety and shares clinical evidence that supports gut health and its impact on neurotransmitters and hormones. She will also discuss herbs, supplements, dietary, and lifestyle modifications that can be put into practice. We hope you'll join us!... https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/natural-support-options-for-dep

Its a great day to meet an herb! Have you ever heard of Pleurisy Root/Butterfly Milkweed (Ascelpias tuberosa)? If you haven't, this herb is an incredible power house when it comes to upper respiratory issues. It is specific for what its named for "Pleurisy" but can be used for so many other things. This herb was a medicinal standard at the beginning of the last century but has fallen away from more popular herbal remedies and instead is often used as an ornamental plant in ga...rdens. It was a mainstay for the early eclectic physicians, indigenous people all over Noth America, and early colonizing settlers. If you'd love to learn more, simply click the link and enjoy the read! Feel free to reach out with any questions you might have. https://www.healinghouseherbal.com//understanding-herbs-bu

This can be a great wellness tip for pet lovers! We spend a lot of time and energy in making sure our pets have happy and healthy lives. We talk to them and tell them how nice they are, we hug them and cuddle them and give them the best of what we can provide. So why is it that when we have a health or wellness issue we often times put it off? Or, why is it that when we don't necessarily keep to our health or wellness goals, we often mentally beat ourselves up over it? We wo...uldn't say the mean things we say to ourselves to our friends, family, or fur babies, so why do we do it internally? Here is a nice little exercise geared towards being kind to ourselves, and giving ourselves the nurturing and respect we all deserve. Make your internal voice, the same voice you would use for a person or a pet that you love.

The last couple of months Healing House has hosted online webinars. Going forward we will be recording them all and posting them on our Youtube channel. However, in the meantime, please enjoy Clinical Herbal Therapist Petra Sovcov as she gives a talk about the connection between Gut Health and Mental Health. This is from May 2020 from the Institute of Holistic Nutrition open house where she is also a part of the teaching faculty. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TS0VMOELc6U

Good Morning and Happy Monday! I find that Monday's are the days that sometimes need the most help. When we slow down and become mindful of our choices, we have the opportunity to invite intention into our actions. Intention is a wonderful tool for positive change. For example, when we choose something as simple as our breakfast with the intention to nurture our body instead of just feeding our stomach, we can be focused on bringing in the medicinal aspect of our food by intentionally choosing the right options.

Happy Thursday! There is a new article up on the healing house website about the herb ashwaganda (Withania somnifera) - this herbal ally is a traditional ayurvedic herb and an ancient medicinal. Most commonly in modern western clinical herbalism it is used for stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, adrenal exhaustion, and nervous system issues. I hope you enjoy reading about it and feel free to reach out with any questions. ... https://www.healinghouseherbal.com//understanding-herbs-as