Wellness in a Box

I thought I would share a little something I recently found at Winners. I honestly picked it up three times, and set it back down, thinking to myself I already have tons of Wellness “things” at home.

In the end, I decided it was only $10, and I would likely spend that on useless junk, or something that did not enhance my mind, body and soul. Before I got back home, I convinced myself it was as good as any treat I would purchase. When I got home, and looked it up on Amazon, I was pleasantly surprised!

I went digging on Google and also found several Wellness Subscription boxes. Here is a link to some of the top ones… Top 10 Subscription Boxes. It’s an interesting read, and gives you an overview of some popular wellness products.

Back to my wellness box! What I really like about my Box, is the assortment of 4 categories. It’s like a file system all ready to go. I’m now thinking this will make a great travel pack to throw in my suitcase; even after I’ve gone through all the cards. So what’s in each section, you ask? I’ll post an example from each category; each card has reflection on the back, that you can write right on the card, or journal alongside in a little book.

Self Care is a great overall reminder of little things we can do to make your day brighter. These are all action-oriented, and you can do them along with other chores of the day. Or, take time to put it into action, and then reflect. Might I suggest, on your favorite deck chair?!

Mindfulness. Ahh, yes. Such a big topic, and something I try to focus on daily. The best part is, I can practice it anywhere, anytime. I often include a daily prayer with my mindfulness practice, because it forces me take time to focus…anywhere, anytime. I always end up engaging in conversation with God, and with myself; but as long as I’ve learned to settle my mind and my spirit, it’s all good.

Sleep is a great group of activities that will help make sleep come easier. I admit, this is my hardest category, despite things I might do during the day to alleviate stress at night. My nightly sudoku puzzle helps me unwind a bit, but if you are prone to keep a journal by your bedside, these are enjoyable and thoughtful.

Intuition. Wow. That’s a heavy category. This one is often thought-provoking, and again the backside has some good reflection questions.

So grab a piece of paper, index card, or journal, and go back to the top of this article. Yes…you know what’s coming, don’t you?! Either check out the Amazon order, or hunt around for some other Wellness Activity cards, and start your journey today. Because your worth it!

Wellness Walks: Anchorage Park Trails

welcome to the Anchorage!

This week, Island mailboxes were hit with flyers announcing a new fundraising effort for upgrades to the Anchorage Park Trails. As many of you know, The Anchorage is a very special place to me, for its beaches as well trails. It has been my Go-To spot for many of my Wellness Walk & Talk events. Besides being centrally located, the Anchorage offers a variety of trails that are easy to walk, scenic, and short. I often combine 2-3 trails for an enjoyable walk when I want to add more steps to the latest virtual walking challenge I am working on.

One of my favorites is the Boardwalk. I especially love this one for all seasons. In winter, it can be very picturesque as snow lays on the overhanging canopy of branches. In summer, it can offer protection from the afternoon sun, or heavy winds. If you come up with a hundred reasons NOT to go for a walk, the Boardwalk can offer a hundred reasons to just get out and DO IT! It is very family oriented, and dog friendly. The various look out benches provide quiet spots to sit and meditate, pray, journal or read. They are also great resting spots for the little ones to stop and have a snack, or provide a snack for the squirrels! When Dalton was little, we would seek out the elusive trolls under some of those bridges, and later would hide treats in geocaches along the way with Youth Group. A mighty tree that held growing childhood friends for annual photo shoots has since fallen away. But the memories have not.

Another thing I really like about the Boardwalk, is how the three entry points can give you a very different experience. You might choose to walk the whole length, or just take in a short section. I’ve enjoyed taking the back campground entrance, especially in winter. I love the little bridges. The most popular entrance is by the Fisherman’s Memorial, a very peaceful destination in and of itself. The Red Point Road entrance may seem a little more out the way, but you also get to enjoy the short Hudson Trail down there, before starting on the Boardwalk. I am so grateful to Gene Hudson and his family/friends who take on some of the upkeep.

Looking back on the many years of adventures, it’s no wonder some stretches are in need of repair and upgrades. It has been twenty years of troll hunting and picnic lunches! The only time I recall the trails NOT being accessible was spring of 2020, when COVID restrictions told us we could not keep six feet apart if we were to meet someone along the way.

The proposed upgrades include widening the trail. Many times after a rainfall or ice storm, the boards would be very slippery and treacherous. Those days it is best to avoid the trail. Changes will see a hard-packed gravel laid down instead. I am so excited to think friends bound to wheelchairs will better be able to enjoy the park with friends and family.

I am partnering with the Anchorage to help fundraise and share my love of the trails. I hope you might consider coming out and joining us. As many of you know, I started hosting Wellness Walk & Talks during COVID restrictions, when indoor social gatherings were discouraged. Thankfully, our island is blessed with many walking trails, not just at Anchorage. The short hikes were good for all our state of mind, and continue to be.

Starting on Friday, June 25, I will be hosting weekend Wellness Walks. Visitors to the park will get to explore the area with me, and islanders are welcome to join in. Some of you might not have been on some of the trails ever; others might not have visited in a few weeks. We welcome all of you! If you have friends staying with you this summer, or you have guests staying at your cottages or B & Bs, we welcome you!

Come join us on Friday nights @7pm, or Saturday afternoons @4pm. Cost of the walk is $5 per adult, $3 per child, or $14 per family. Each group is limited to ten participants, so register early. You can pick up your ticket at the Anchorage Office, or text me at (506)662-4246. We will meet at the Picnic Pavilion gate. **all walks are weather pending, so be sure to check in with me if you are unsure.

If you are uncomfortable with crowds, message me to arrange a smaller walking group; or if you would like to arrange an alternate time for private parties, message me.

WHAT TO BRING: Wear comfortable shoes and your mask. Bring along bug spray/sunscreen and water. See you soon!

Long Pond

thanks for respecting NB Public Health guidelines

looks like a good spot to rest/snack

he enjoyed his snack!

gorgeous in the wintertime too!

when was the last time you explored any of the other trails?

my favorite beach at the Anchorage!

Competition. I’m done!

I’ve been thinking about this a lot on my last few walks. It has been a little more challenging since I recently started working, and I find myself reflecting on the days I was working at school. It wouldn’t have been unusual to put in ten hour days as a teacher. Actually, it would have been more unusual to NOT put in ten hour days. These days I’m struggling to get the laundry done, and other household chores. Saturday night entertainment was spent at the grocery store, deciding on which package of pork chops would be the best deal for the week ahead…especially since I wouldn’t be home to cook suppers, and have to readjust my menu planning yet again. But that entertainment had to be confined to an hour, because the store would be closing soon.

But somehow, when I was teaching, everything got done. Well, most everything. Most of the important stuff, anyway. I guess it has just been a bit of a shell-shocker this month, because I refuse to admit I can’t get everything done I want to. (No news flash there, eh?!)

So, one of my Covid activities, has been Virtual Walking challenges. I’ve set my sights on various medals with differing distances, and have accomplished several smaller ones. 5-10kms seem to be no problem, but then I got intrigued by some longer ones. Now I’m struggling to keep up, because of my work schedule. I have tried getting out before heading to the office, which is an enjoyable way to start the day, but it takes me away from “valuable” time at the dishwasher or laundry room. I know “this too shall pass”, but when Dalton and Karl have both passed me enroute virtually, I’m beating myself up!

As I was adding things to my Happy Planner earlier this week, this card fell out. Yes, I definitely needed reminding. How many days do we spend competing in our head against the expectations of others? But even worse, competing against the expectations we set for ourselves? Everyday, I see reminders around me of things I “want” to be, things I “should” be doing. And at the end of the day, I often reflect on what I need to change or do differently. But this week, I gently reminded myself I really am doing the best I can.

But even that last sentence makes it sound like I’m competing again. As if I am “settling”. As if, not meeting my expectation, means I am failing. I really need to be still, and remind myself I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Be Still, Be Kind

Have you had one of those days, when deep down, you know what you need to do for a better you…but you just can’t seem to find the motivation to make that first step?

Today was one of those days.
I was up early (as usual), put on my comfy leggings, and consciously put on my sneakers instead of my flats. Be prepared. My coach says “Be Ready…that’s half the battle” .
Be ready, at a moment’s notice to jump back on that path to a better you.
I had Dial a Ride clients this morning, so had to go “all the way” to North Head 😂, anyway.
I was tempted to just go straight to the lighthouse, skip the helicopter pad today. It’s too windy. It’s too cold. It will be really cold up there. You missed the sunrise, so the view isn’t going to be that spectacular. You forgot your water bottle. Your tummy is rumbling because you didn’t grab breakfast. Just get to the lighthouse and you can turn right around and head home.

Self-talk can be so harsh, can’t it?
My feet seem to have a mind of their own sometimes…habit says turn uphill, not straight ahead when you get the keeper’s house.
Before I knew it, I was standing on top of the cement path. It was certainly breezy.
Before I knew it, I was heading further away from the lighthouse, out to the very tip of the peninsula. The trails down there are very narrow, and a little more challenging, but I made it. Looking back, I purposely chose the longest, twistiest path back to the lighthouse. Jump over to the foghorn.
Then I spotted it…the first of several painted rocks little Harper had left yesterday. I had come prepared with a few rocks of my own to trade. Thank you for the motivation to keep going, Harper.

Just Keep Moving.
Just keep putting one foot in front of the other.
Just climb those steps like you own them.
Just get to the top.
Only stop to enjoy the view from where you’ve travelled.
And just be kind to yourself.
Just for this day.

Creative Arts Therapy Classes resume! Zen Doodles and Zentangles

** time change**

SATURDAY, MARCH 13, 1-3PM

Be Still!

An interesting and informative read…

Great article on why our brains actually need silenceThe science behind being still and silent!

See, What have I been telling you?!

Marching on…

Good morning!
Happy Friday…and to many of you, happy Friday before March Break!
When I was working at school, this day was an incredible milestone in the year for me. It was a reminder of all the things we had gone through since September, all the accomplishments, as well as all the struggles. Like the seasons, winter is coming to a close, and subtle hints of spring are starting to appear. For me, the school year was actually about to accelerate, as graduation preparations would start to take up most of my days, and nights. Much like climbing Mount Crumpit, though, a whole lot of energy was taken getting to this point, and it seemed like the finish line was still off in the distance. Yet, March 1st was like a major turning point. Once March Break arrived, you could descend that mountain, and in no time at all, you would be at the end; June would be here with barely a blink of an eye.

The last couple of months have been challenging, but I’ve been determined to find those things that bring me joy, no matter how small. I found my snowshoes again. I picked up my watercolours again. I learned to make Ramen Noodles … far different from my traditional comfort food soups. I took a couple of online workshops, and started preparing for an online ladies retreat.

I was surprised yesterday by a delivery from my favorite flower girl. Auntie Jo-Jo arrived with a sweet arrangement from the Library Board. I have been on the board for the past three years, and struggled with renewing my stay. I tentatively said yes back in November, but after all the stressors of December and January, I was regretting that decision. Don’t get me wrong…they are a great group to work with, and I greatly value all their programs for island families. My head just didn’t have the space. Thank you, for your show of appreciation. It certainly looks like spring!

I decided to stop in Thrifty’s for a minute. My new rule to live by, is I’m not allowing myself to bring anything IN the house, unless something LEAVES my house. I was feeling pretty good about taking a couple of boxes last night for the Curling Club yardsale. So I felt I was safe to stop in the second hand shop. My great $3 finds were a “new” glass jar for beach glass, and an awesome “new” book. Literally.

I met up with Darlene at her shop. I had wanted a couple of specific stones, but my under $5 purchase was much more valuable to my spirit that day. When you walk into Presence Boutique, a sense of calm immediately comes over you. I love how Darlene always greets me with love, and welcomes my soul with her nurturing heart. I needed that. I took my time looking though new stock. So much to see. I’m not in a hurry to leave. I found what I was looking for, but then spied a beautiful agate geode wind chime. And in my favorite colour. I was immediately transported to a lovely spring day when my windows could be opened up and I can hear the gentle clinking of the crystals.

I was excited to bring home my treasure… but I had a problem.

In my excitement to unpackage it from the carefully wrapped bag, the strands got tangled. And, just as life, I wanted to see it hanging in the morning sun, but couldn’t slow down. What a tangled mess I had created, despite Darlene having wrapped it carefully, gently. Lovingly.

Why do I do this to myself, time after time? So many beautiful pieces I want to take in, and experience each and every one for their unique beauty. So many details to learn. So many things to share.

I sat for a good thirty minutes, gently weaving and untangling each individual slice, nervously laying them out as they became separated. I started to lift them up, but quickly realized I hadn’t put the hanger up yet. Slow down, Heather. Enjoy the process of preparing, just as much as the end goal.

There always seems to be a never ending pile of chores to complete. This week, I don’t want to tackle any of them, let alone complete them. I just want to gently untangle some things, and sit in His peace.

To sit and Be Still.

Thoughtful Thursday

It has been two weeks plus a day since my mom passed away. I am actually doing quite well. Thank you to the friends that have reached out. I appreciate your cards, and comments. New Brunswick has hit 118 cases since Jan 1st, and there is chaos on Capital Hill. I’ve never been fond of the color orange, but thoughts of red, isn’t much better.

Over the holidays, I gave myself permission to lay low, and gather my thoughts. Those who know me, know what a challenge that is for me. I enjoyed a simple, quiet Christmas with my family here on the island. I don’t think Kiddo knows it, but his simple little text to me on Christmas morning at 7 am, announcing “I’m ready!”(indicating we could pick him up anytime!), filled my heart with missing Joy. He was ready. He was ready for Christmas breakfast we always share. And it had to be quiche and clementines. and fruitcake! Our holiday feast of joy. He was ready to spend the day with us. A lazy day of anticipation, and little expectation. It was exactly what I needed.

This would be the gift of the new year for me. Simplistic meals that turned into feasts of joy. Lazy days snuggled under a blanket on the couch, with a ball of yarn and the remote. Unashamedly hours upon hours of Netflix, caught up in the characters’ lives of Virgin River and Bridgerton, only coming out to see how many peanut butter balls were left in the fridge, or to refill my waterbottle. Earlier this week, I let out a sigh and forced myself to put on my hikers, scarf and mitts and head to the Anchorage. Usually, this would bring me joy, but not lately. I proudly announced to Kiddo my sense of accomplishment as I marked off more kilometers on our virtual walk challenges…only to have that squished by his accomplishment of three and four times my number, by literally chasing kids in his workplace.

I have retreated to my couch again today, armed with my battle gear of flannel jammies, hot chocolate and double ended needles. The start up of Netflix will be my battle cry again. The last of my homemade soup will provide sustanance to get through the day.

These are my thoughts for this Thursday. Frankly, it will be ok if it repeats on Friday. I will just quietly wait for the sun to come out. And pull up another blanket.

Walk & Talk Series

Join me for my new summer series…Walk & Talk!
Exploring different parts of the island, different days of the week, different times of day…so you’re bound to find one that fits your schedule! All you need are comfortable walking shoes and your water bottle. Goal: low/medium impact on your body, high impact on your mind & spirit!

Follow my Facebook page, Inspire, Explore, Create, Empower here for upcoming Events, including Walk & Talks.

Sometimes we just need to get out in the fresh air, and take a break from our daily life. Throughout this past Spring, many of us have been cooped up at home. Some of you have not been able to see friends and relatives, for various reasons. Some of you have spent more time than ever with them, and maybe need a break from those people, despite how much we love them.

Sometimes, it doesn’t hurt to get a change of scenery, even if only for a few minutes. And sometimes we just need to vent. I’m here to listen, and may not have the solutions, but I’d like to just give you a safe space to speak those thoughts out loud, without judgement, without ridicule, without pressure to exercise, even. The weather doesn’t have to be “perfect”, but I will post if it is too unfavourable.

I have no idea how many people might be interested in this opportunity. I think two or three people would make this a welcoming venue for some, but perhaps you would feel more comfortable in a one-on-one setting. If that is the case, we can arrange an alternative time/place, where it’s just the two of us and nature.

It’s all about our mental health. We’re in this together!

“Thank you for introducing me to another fantastic spot on our island. I had no idea that area had such beauty and serenity to offer.”~C.O.

Anchorage Beach

Castalia Marsh