Innate Wellness
5 Quebec Avenue M6P2T3 Toronto, ON, Canada

The holiday season may be looking differently this year, but you can still maintain festive cheer! Here are tips to improve your mental wellbeing this holiday season: 1. Reach out. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community through virtual religious, social, or communal events.... 2. Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself feeling sad or anxious, unable to sleep, irritable and hopeless, and unable to face routine chores. If these feelings are persistent, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. Email us at [email protected] to book your free 15-minute consultation with our Psychotherapist Lise today! https://innatewellness.ca/maintaining-holiday-cheer-during/

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the human body synchronizes with the natural seasons. Winter is the season of replenishing energy and nourishing the kidney. With Winter approaching, it is a perfect time for the kidney to store its essence and consolidate your body foundation. Learn how to help your kidneys function properly. TCM herbal teas can aid in nourishing and replenishing the kidney. At Innate Wellness, our Acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine P...ractitioner Xian Min can formulate a specialized TCM formula combined with an acupuncture treatment to help strengthen and balance your body. Contact us for more information! https://innatewellness.ca/mens-health-during-the-winter-se/

Welcome Lise Fitzsimmons to the Innate Wellness Team! Lise is a Registered Psychotherapist and has worked in the mental health field for over 18 years in various capacities. She specializes in working with adults experiencing difficulties with substance abuse, addictions, trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship issues. Lise is trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Trauma Informed Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.... Lise is passionate about supporting people on their mental health journey. Her goal is to empower clients to tap into their own self-awareness and help them build and leverage their strengths by inviting them to be actively involved in their journey. She believes in creating a strong alliance and connection with clients that is based on support and trust. Lise is registered with the College of Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and has a master's degree in Psychology. Contact us at [email protected] to book your Registered Psychotherapy session with Lise today!

Prostate Health: As men age, they can experience changes in urination that indicate prostate issues. Frequent or urgent need to urinate, difficulty starting urination, weak urine stream or a stream that stops and starts, inability to completely empty the bladder are all signs of an enlarged prostate.... The condition known as benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH) becomes increasing prevalent in men as they age, with 50% of men experiencing BPH by the age of 60, and 90% of men by the age of 85. There are a number of herbs that have the ability to prevent and treat BPH, and in some cases eliminate symptoms entirely. Book a consult with one of our Naturopathic Doctor’s to learn more.

Eating with the Winter Season With the change of seasons it is important that we eat appropriately in order to support metabolism and digestion. As we move from autumn to winter this is even more essential for individuals with colder constitutions and weak digestive systems. Consuming warm, cooked foods, such as soups, stews and roasted foods helps to improve cold intolerance, energy, digestion and sleep. Tips for Keeping Warm:... - Avoid excessive amounts of raw, cold foods such as icy smoothies and big salads. Try warming up your salad by adding hot foods such as beans, mushrooms and sweet potatoes. - Steam or stir fry green leafy vegetables - Increase use of warming spices such as turmeric, cumin, ginger and garlic in your diet. - Avoid cold liquids, instead drink miso soup, herbal tea, hot lemon water See more

Today we honour those who have sacrificed their lives in the service of their country, and acknowledge the courage of those who still serve. In memory of many. In honour of all. Lest we forget.

In May, Movember launched a global survey around the impact of COVID-19 on men’s Mental Health that indicated: - 23% of men reported their mental health had worsened in the first six weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic - 30% noted increased feelings of loneliness with the highest percentage... - 71% of men who reported loneliness were aged 18-29 years - 1/3rd of Canadian men felt their relationships with friends and colleagues had weakened since stay-at-home measures had been imposed, while also showing Canadian men were less likely to seek help in managing changes in their life due to the COVID-19 pandemic than women There are resources for Men’s Mental Health. It is important that we create dialogue and support men in seeking mental wellness. At Innate Wellness we offer Registered Psychotherapy consults both in-person and through telemedicine. Contact us at 416-760-9424 for more information. https://dontchangemuch.ca//2014/04/health-mental-web-v1.pdf

Men’s Health Awareness Month is about building understanding of the health issues men face. Naturopathic medicine and other forms of integrative health care, can help address the underlying health conditions that lead to these outcomes. The following are staggering health statistics men face: - 1 in 7 Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime... - Testicular cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in young Canadian men - Each year, more than 2,900 men die by suicide in Canada - In Canada, 3 out of 4 deaths by suicide are men - Suicide is the second leading cause of death among Canadian males aged 1544 years https://ca.movember.com/mens-health%20

Gentle cold and flu support helps to prevent susceptibility to common viral strains that cause the cold & flu. The two main ingredients in our Cold & Flu blend, Echinacea and Elderberry help to support immune viral resistance. Evidence shows that all strains of human and avian influenza viruses as well as herpes simplex virus, respiratory syncytial viral and rhinovirus are sensitive to Echinacea purpurea. Although, combinations of Echinacea purpurea and angustifolia are like...ly to give the best coverage. As a long-used European remedy, Elderberry has known antiviral and antibacterial properties, making it a great herb for protecting against common viral strains and secondary bacterial infections. Research has shown that Elderberry increases inflammatory cytokine production and reduces the length of the flu. One specific type of elderberry, Sambucas foronsana nakai stem ethanol extract has shown strong potential against one type of circulating coronavirus, anti-HCoV-NL63. Ginger, Licorice and Cinnamon round this formula out with additional antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Low Protein = Immune Deficiency. If you don’t get enough protein (often because you are skipping meals or because you have removed animal protein and haven’t upped vegetarian protein) you can suffer from an immune deficiency. You may be prone to recurrent infections or suffer from a cold or flu that never goes away. Energy and mood may be low. This is because protein forms the building blocks for the immune system. Be mindful to include protein at each meal.

Happy, Healthy Halloween This year optimize your family’s enjoyment by balancing healthy meals with treats! Eating nutritious, high-fibre, high-protein foods will satisfy your hungry, stabilize your blood sugar, and reduce your cravings for sweets.

A strong immune system is the key to preventing and lessening the duration and severity of any viral respiratory infection. Incorporating a balanced diet with low inflammatory, hydrating and nutritious foods can help improve the body's immune response. Consume: - Low inflammatory foods in your diet, including whole foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, quality protein, whole grains, beans and legumes - 7-10 servings of vegetables and fruit daily... - A lot of fluids: Hydrate frequently with clean water, herbal teas, broths and vegetable juice Avoid: - Excessive amounts of refined sugar and carbohydrates (baked goodies, breads and pastas). Instead opt for whole grains, beans and legumes. - Dairy consumption entirely if possible as dairy increases inflammation and mucous in the body and respiratory system. - Alcohol and caffeine intake

Acupressure is a great way to stay healthy. It is easy to do and doesn’t take up too much time so you can easily fit it into your schedule This point, Outer Gate SJ 5, is located on a meridian that connects to the body’s ability to clear out any pathogens. It activates the body’s ability to fight off disease. In Chinese Medicine they believe that sickness is not caused by an invading pathogen, but by the body’s inability to fight off that pathogen. This point helps muster t...he body’s defenses to fight off pathogens. It also acts to balance the body’s ability to fight off disease while at the same time nourishing it to help ‘fill it up after being sick for an extended period of time. It’s located just below the thumb on the wrist crease. You know you found the point because there will be a depression. - Raises the Immunity - Alleviates headaches - Clears out pathogens Learn more about the Top 5 Acupressure Points for Immunity on our latest blog post: https://innatewellness.ca/top-5-acupressure-points-for-imm/

Welcome Marco to the Innate Wellness Team Marco is a Biofield Therapist who works on the energy body to restore the correct flow of information between the biofield and physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual bodies to reach energetic and physiological balance thereby promoting natural healing and wellbeing. Marco Rosada is a certified Relaxation Therapist, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, Meditation Teacher, and Holistic Life Coach. The principles and techniques of these disciplines are an integral part of his Biofield Therapy healing practice. He is also a member of the Canadian Association for Integrative and Energy Therapies (CAIED).

We will be Introducing Biofield Therapy at Innate Wellness starting in September Biofield therapy optimizes the Subtle Energy body - which is directly responsible for the efficiency and functionality of the body’s immune system and physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health; it generates an immediate healing response for those impacted by mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, insomnia, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders), and eating disorders. Biofiel...d therapy is also effective in destressing the body and providing preventative care for physical illnesses like systemic and local infections. DM or email us at [email protected] to book your Initial Biofield Therapy Session today!

Epsom Salt Bath Because of the high magnesium content, Epsom salts promote the release of lactic acid from muscle tissue instigating feelings of deep relaxation and stress relief. An Epsom salts bath can be helpful any time you are suffering from aches, muscle strain and tension. It is also an excellent idea for the evening after you have had a massage because it helps to clear out released lactic acid. Without this, there may be a temporary generalized soreness following the massage treatment of a particularly tight area.

Welcome Peter Witz to the Innate Wellness Team Peter is both a Registered Massage Therapist and a Registered Acupuncturist. Peter’s practice style consists of a blend of therapeutic influences from eastern and western medicine that caters to the needs of each individual client.... As an RMT, he focuses on treating the body as a whole by addressing both the concern and the cause. His therapeutic style consists of a blend of general Swedish techniques with gentle joint manipulations and dynamic/kinetic massage. As an acupuncturist, he treats the body from a Chinese medicine perspective. His style is unique since he often uses massage to complement the treatment during acupuncture. He uses a balancing technique that helps to harmonize the organ systems, improve the circulatory system and calm the mind. Although Peter treats a variety of conditions both acute and chronic, he specializes in the treatment of pain and stress management. Contact us to book your massage therapy and acupuncture sessions with Peter today!

Summer Infused Water Try adding fresh fruit + herbs to your water for a refreshing, vitamin-infused drink that will carry you throughout the day. Our favourite combo:... Fresh Mint + Raspberries + Lemon Slice Other refreshing combinations: -Cucumber + Mint -Watermelon + Basil -Blueberries + Lemon + Rosemary -Ginger + Peach -Vanilla Bean + Pear -Orange + Lemon + Lime + Grapefruit Tip: Peel citrus for a less bitter flavour

Meet Jessica Stacey! Jessica is a Registered Massage Therapist with vast experience working with multiple populations and various conditions, including sports injuries and performance, postural imbalances, chronic illnesses, and pregnancy. Jessica values an active and involved approach to care using Massage Therapy to aid and optimize health and wellness of all her patients. She believes in one-on-one communication to create individualized treatment plans for each patient’s u...nique presentation. Jessica currently focuses on the use of Massage Therapy for the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain, biomechanical dysfunction, exercise rehabilitation, sports injuries, stress related musculoskeletal concerns, and overall body wellness. Her techniques include: Therapeutic & Deep Tissue Massage, Trigger Point Massage, Sports Massage, Swedish Relaxation Massage Book your massage therapy session with Jessica today!

To Zoom or not to Zoom? Zoom offers a number of advantages to the therapeutic process including: - Greater accessibility and time optimization because of the transcendence of physical space ... - Engaging with people in their residence, which allows the therapist to gain perspective into the home environment of the patient - The ability to observe and access body language - Comfort and ease in a familiar environment for the patient - Easier scheduling coordination for entire family therapy sessions Read Monica Grainger, MSW, RSW’s article to learn more about the advantages of remote therapy. Or, book a free 15-minute consultation to learn how telemedicine therapy can assist you. https://innatewellness.ca/to-zoom-or-not-to-zoom/

International Self-Care Day Castor oil has been shown to increase circulation and promote elimination and healing to tissues and organs underneath the skin. It is particularly effective in being absorbed into lymph circulation which can improve digestion, immune function, and reduce swelling in injured joints and extremities. It has also been specifically used in cases of menstrual irregularities, uterine fibroid cysts, and ovarian cysts. Materials:... - Castor Oil Cold Fresh-Pressed Organic - Old T-Shirt and Shorts White (so the dye is not leeched from the shirt into the skin) Method: - Before Bed Apply Castor Oil with Hands from Breasts to Pubic Bone - Put on an old t-shirt and shorts - Get into bed ensure that your bed covers are warm enough that you maintain a warm temperature throughout the night in order for the oil to be absorbed - Apply the pack at least 3 days a week **DO NOT USE ON ABDOMEN DURING PREGNANCY**

Dry Skin Brushing A dry brush exfoliation eliminates dead skin cells and allows the skin to detoxify. It also improves lymph and blood circulation, decreases puffiness and the gentle pressure is calming to the nervous system! To give yourself a dry brush exfoliation, you'll need a soft, natural bristle brush. ... Step 1 - Dry brush exfoliation can be done in the morning before you shower or before bed. Step 2 - Starting at your feet, start brushing in small circles towards your heart. Apply very light pressure, avoiding broken skin, skin rashes, or areas where the skin is thin, such as the face or inner thighs. Step 3 - After you've finished both legs, move on to your arms. Brush from your fingertips, again towards your heart. Step 4 - Reach around and brush from your back towards your stomach. Step 5 - When you are finished, begin showering.

Being mindful to match your eating habits to the movement of this season can help maintain health and energy all year round. Summer is ruled by the fire element, which rules expansion, growth, and creativity. Nature is at its peak in terms of growth and the motion of natural energy is moving upwards meaning that this is the perfect time to harness that natural high in your energy levels! - Enjoy beautiful meals with colorful fruits and vegetables. - Avoid COLD foods but co...nsume COOLING foods. - Try hot-flavored spices on the hottest days. - Avoid heavy foods on hot days as they will cause sluggishness. - Cook food lightly with high heat for a short period of time. See more

As the peak of summer is here in Toronto, we are experiencing the heat and humidity that comes along with the longer, sunnier days. While it is important to get outside and soak up that vitamin D, we also want to stay cool and comfortable. Here are some tips to help you cool down this summer: - Make sure you are hydrated ... - Utilize cooling herbs - Eat more raw foods - Take a contrast shower See more