The varicella vaccine, commonly known as the chickenpox vaccine, is a crucial tool in preventing this highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Chickenpox is characterized by an itchy rash, blisters, fever, and fatigue. While often mild in children, chickenpox can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and bacterial skin infections, particularly in newborns, adults, and immunocompromised individuals.

The varicella vaccine is typically administered in two doses, with the first dose given between 12 and 15 months of age and the second between 4 and 6 years. The vaccine has proven to be highly effective, significantly reducing the incidence of chickenpox and its related complications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the vaccine prevents about 90% of chickenpox cases, offering strong immunity.

The varicella (chickenpox) vaccine recommendations are as follows:

• Routine Immunization: Healthy children aged 12 months to under 13 years should receive the univalent varicella vaccine or the MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella) vaccine.
• Susceptible Adolescents and Adults: Adolescents aged 13 to under 18 years and adults aged 18 to under 50 years who are susceptible should receive the univalent varicella vaccine.
• Selective Immunization: The vaccine may be considered for individuals with certain immunodeficiency disorders.

Priority Groups for Immunization:

• Non-pregnant women of childbearing age
• Household contacts of immunocompromised individuals
• Families expecting a newborn
• Health care workers
• Adults with occupational exposure to varicella (e.g., those working with young children)
• Immigrants and refugees from tropical regions
• Individuals on chronic salicylate therapy (e.g., ASA)
• People with cystic fibrosis
• Susceptible adults exposed to a varicella case

For more information, visit:

Varicella (chickenpox) vaccines: Canadian Immunization Guide

How to Recognize Chickenpox

Food for thought: As the school year approaches, consider the timing of your child's vaccinations before returning to the classroom. This can help prevent outbreaks and keep both students and their families safe. This small step can make a significant difference in maintaining a healthy school environment as the new academic year begins.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chickenpox

https://www.wikihow.com/Recognize-Chickenpox 

https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/canadian-immunization-guide-part-4-active-vaccines/page-24-varicella-chickenpox-vaccine.html#p4c23a1 

Bound by the hustle and bustle of modern life, the pursuit of holistic health has gained prominence. As individuals strive for well-being, there is a growing awareness of the intimate connection between the mind and body. One fascinating aspect of this synergy is the profound impact that mindfulness practices, meditation, and stress-relief techniques can have on both mental equilibrium and physical appearance. There is an intricate link between mindfulness and beauty.

The Mind-Body Connection:

The mind and body have long been viewed as interconnected, and recent scientific research has validated the profound influence each has on the other. The concept of holistic health emphasizes the importance of treating the entire person rather than focusing solely on specific symptoms or ailments. When it comes to beauty and wellness, this holistic approach becomes particularly relevant.

Mindfulness as a Pathway to Beauty:

Mindfulness, the practice of being fully present in the moment without judgment, has gained widespread recognition for its therapeutic benefits. Beyond its applications in stress reduction and mental well-being, mindfulness plays a pivotal role in enhancing physical appearance.

1. Stress Reduction and Skin Health: Chronic stress has been linked to a myriad of health issues, including skin problems such as acne, eczema, and premature aging. Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, help alleviate stress by promoting relaxation and reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol. As stress levels decrease, skin health often improves, leading to a radiant complexion.

2. Mindful Eating for Glow: Beauty radiates from within, and mindful eating is a key aspect of nurturing the body. By paying close attention to the sensory experience of eating, individuals can develop a healthier relationship with food. This not only supports overall well-being but can also contribute to a clearer complexion and healthier hair.

Meditation and the Fountain of Youth:

Meditation, a cousin of mindfulness, offers a unique pathway to beauty by addressing the aging process at its core. Studies have shown that regular meditation can positively influence the expression of genes associated with aging. As individuals engage in meditation, they may experience a reduction in the visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines, as well as an enhanced youthful glow.

Stress-Relief Techniques and Physical Harmony:

Beyond mindfulness and meditation, various stress-relief techniques contribute to the mind-body connection in the realm of beauty. Practices like yoga, tai chi, and progressive muscle relaxation not only alleviate stress but also improve posture, flexibility, and muscle tone. The physical benefits of these practices extend to a more graceful and poised appearance.

The Ripple Effect: From Inner Serenity to Outer Radiance:

The interconnectedness of mindfulness and beauty is akin to a ripple effect. As individuals cultivate inner serenity through mindfulness practices, this tranquility reverberates outward, manifesting in a heightened sense of well-being and an unmistakable glow.

Holistic health, with its emphasis on the symbiotic relationship between mind and body, opens a door to a deeper understanding of beauty. The integration of mindfulness, meditation, and stress-relief techniques into one's daily routine not only fosters mental well-being but also enhances physical appearance. In a world where the pursuit of beauty often focuses on external remedies, embracing the holistic connection between mindfulness and beauty offers a profound and sustainable approach to radiant health.

In today's ever-evolving landscape of diet and nutrition, two approaches have emerged as frontrunners in the quest for weight management and improved metabolism. These are intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating, and they share a common emphasis on not just what we eat but when we eat it.

Understanding Intermittent Fasting and Time-Restricted Eating

Intermittent fasting doesn't fit the conventional definition of a diet; rather, it's an eating pattern that alternates between periods of fasting and eating. Time-restricted eating, a subcategory of intermittent fasting, narrows daily eating to a specific window of time. Both strategies draw inspiration from our body's natural rhythms.

Exploring Different Methods

Imagine fasting for 16 hours each day and then enjoying your meals within an 8-hour window. This is the essence of the 16/8 Method, one of the most popular forms of intermittent fasting.

Time-restricted eating can be viewed as a simpler approach, as intermittent fasting can involve extended fasting periods, time-restricted eating offers a more accessible and sustainable path. This approach simplifies meal timing without significant calorie restrictions.

Benefits of Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting brings with it a slew of potential benefits. Published author and nephrologist, Dr. Jason Fung, speaks frequently to the benefits of intermittent fasting and has dedicated much of his career to the topic. In a video he recently published, he provides advantages to fasting when it comes to specifically to weight loss¹, emphasizing the flexibility and accessibility. There are, however, far more benefits to consider. It can improve insulin sensitivity, crucial for blood sugar regulation and lowering the risk of type 2 diabetes². Beyond this, it sparks a process known as autophagy, where the body cleanses itself of damaged cells and fosters the growth of new ones. This cellular rejuvenation may contribute to a longer, healthier life.³

The length of fasting will vary depending on the person. For those easing into the concept, the 12/12 or 14/10 method may be an ideal starting point. This method entails fasting for 12 or 14 hours daily and eating within the remaining hours. Stepping up, the 18/6 method suggests fasting for 18 hours daily, with a 6-hour eating window. For those looking for a more rigorous challenge, the 20/4 method narrows the eating window to just 4 hours within a 20-hour fasting period.

Stephanie Dubois from CBC news published in a research article that Dr. Fung expressed the most common fasting strategy is 16 hrs of fasting while eating within an eight-hour period. "There's pluses and minuses of all [of those] strategies. So it's not like one is right and one is wrong. It's finding what really works for you," he said.

Benefits of Time-Restricted Eating

Time-restricted eating mirrors many of the benefits of intermittent fasting, such as effective weight management, simplified meal planning that encourages healthier food choices, improved digestion, and potential enhancements in circadian rhythms that lead to better sleep patterns. Like its counterpart, time-restricted eating also may offer metabolic advantages.

Is Intermittent Fasting or Time-Restricted Eating Right for You?

While both intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating have their merits, determining which approach aligns best with your preferences, lifestyle, and health goals is crucial. It's wise to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before embarking on any fasting regimen, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or dietary concerns.

Intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating are innovative strategies that synchronize our eating habits with our body's natural rhythms. Whether you gravitate toward the flexibility of intermittent fasting or the simplicity of time-restricted eating, the key lies in prioritizing balanced nutrition, hydration, and overall well-being.

During an episode of CBC’s The Dose, Dr. Fung was interviewed by guest host Dr. Peter Lin and shared “The idea is not deprivation or to go into excess, but to balance the feeding and the fasting because both are very essential for us.”

Personalization is key, ensuring that the chosen approach suits your unique needs and preferences. As with any lifestyle change, consistency and moderation are the cornerstones of long-term success on your journey to health and wellness.

Sources
¹https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etNLeBTlGQk

²https://www.jeffersonhealth.org/your-health/living-well/intermittent-fasting-and-insulin-resistance-benefits-beyond-weight-loss

³https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666149723000063#:~:text=Intermittent%20fasting%20(IF)%20has%20been,organ%20age%20as%20chronological%20age.

Dr. Fung, Nephrologist
Dr. Jason Fung, a Canadian nephrologist and published author, is a renowned global authority on intermittent fasting and low-carb approaches, particularly for managing type 2 diabetes.

In our evolving global society, where traditional boundaries continue to blur, the nexus between the ancient traditions of the East and the empirical methods of the West in the realm of healthcare is an enthralling evolution. Integrative Medicine stands as a testament to this meeting of minds, offering a comprehensive approach to health and healing.

Central to Integrative Medicine is the tenet of holistic well-being. Traditional Western medicine, while groundbreaking in many respects, has often been critiqued for its tendency to focus solely on the symptomatic treatment of diseases. In contrast, Eastern medical philosophies emphasize the intrinsic connections between body, mind, and spirit. Integrative Medicine marries these viewpoints, fostering a comprehensive approach that addresses not just the physical symptoms but the entirety of human experience. The individual is not just a patient but a partner in the healing process. Such patient-centered care ensures that the path to health is collaborative, with treatments tailored to accommodate individual needs, values, and preferences. Beyond mere treatment, there’s an overarching focus on prevention. It's not just about addressing diseases once they've taken root, but about molding lifestyles that reduce the very onset of these ailments.

Dr. Dugald Seely, a naturopathic doctor and clinician scientist who leads both the Centre for Health Innovation and the Patterson Institute for Integrative Oncology Research, couldn’t agree more. In a webinar created for and published by Lymphoma Canada, he shares “Integrative cancer care is a combination of the best approaches to optimize a patient’s health, help the body and mind heal, encourage remission and wellbeing, and support the whole process throughout. It focuses on the patient as a whole, not just their lymphoma or CLL treatment, but their whole life: physical, emotional, spiritual, social, and lifestyle.”¹

Continuing to explore the practical blend of Eastern and Western methodologies, Chronic pain, a ubiquitous issue in our fast-paced world, provides a revealing example. Western medicine might traditionally recommend painkillers, muscle relaxants, or physiotherapy. However, in the integrative approach, acupuncture might be introduced. Drawing from the reservoirs of Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture believes in triggering specific points in the body to activate its natural healing mechanisms. Another illustrative blend can be observed in the treatment of metabolic and lifestyle diseases. Western pharmacology, with its impressive array of drugs targeting biochemical pathways, can work wonders. Yet, when coupled with Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medicinal system, the treatment becomes multifaceted. Ayurveda, with its tridoshic theory, offers dietary, lifestyle, and therapeutic guidelines based on an individual's constitution. Mental health, an area gaining increasing prominence, showcases another fusion. Western psychiatry, with its potent medications and cognitive therapies, receives a complement from practices like mindfulness meditation. Rooted in ancient Buddhist traditions, mindfulness fosters self-awareness, resilience, and equanimity, offering a holistic approach to mental well-being.

The myriad benefits of Integrative Medicine are undeniable. For starters, the wide array of treatment modalities ensures that healthcare becomes a personalized experience. With a broader toolkit at their disposal, healthcare practitioners can devise solutions that are uniquely tailored to individual needs. Furthermore, by pivoting towards more natural remedies and techniques, the integrative approach often minimizes the risk of adverse reactions and side effects, a concern that has long plagued many modern drugs. But perhaps the most significant benefit is the empowerment of the individual. In being positioned as partners in their health journey, individuals become more aware, informed, and proactive about their health.

For today's professionals, especially those navigating the often-tumultuous terrains of the business world, Integrative Medicine is not just a medical alternative; it's a paradigm shift. In a world riddled with stress, burnout, and an ever-increasing pace, this holistic approach offers a beacon of balance and harmony. By seamlessly blending the profound wisdom of the East with the rigorous evidence-based approach of the West, Integrative Medicine offers not just a route to recovery but a transformative journey toward complete wellness.

The World Health Organization (WHO) held its inaugural Traditional Medicine Global Summit in August 2023. Partners and stakeholders pledged to tap into the proven benefits of traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM) to enhance universal health coverage and achieve Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, ensuring the health and well-being of individuals and the environment.

As published by the WHO International Media, Dr. Hans Kluge, WHO's Regional Director for Europe, remarked when closing the summit, “Together, we have gently shaken up the status quo that has, for far too long, separated different approaches to medicine and health. By taking aim at silos, we are saying we will collaborate all the more to find optimal ways to bring traditional, complementary and integrative medicine well under the umbrella of primary health care and universal health coverage.”²

As we stand at the cusp of medical revolutions, with technologies like AI and genomics reshaping healthcare, the human touch remains irreplaceable. Integrative Medicine, with its focus on the complete human experience, beckons a future where healthcare is not just about combating disease but about nurturing holistic well-being. As the tapestry of global health continues to evolve, the threads of East and West, ancient and modern, empirical, and intuitive, are weaving a narrative of holistic health that promises to be both transformative and inclusive.

Sources:

¹ https://www.lymphoma.ca/integrative-cancer-care/

² https://www.who.int/news/item/19-08-2023-global-partners-commit-to-advance-evidence-based-traditional--complementary-and-integrative-medicine

Dr. Dugald Seely, ND, M.Sc., Founder & Chief Executive Officer, The Centre for Health Innovation
Affiliated with Ottawa Hospital Research and a University of Ottawa professor; Dr. Seely is a naturopathic doctor who focuses on integrative oncology research.

Dr. Hans Kluge, Regional Director, World Health Organization (WHO) Europe
With 25 years in medicine and public health globally, Dr. Kluge started with Médecins Sans Frontières, later joining WHO has focused on TB, HIV, and malaria, while promoting health systems and partnerships.

In the pursuit of a fulfilling and contented life, the quest for happiness reigns supreme. Happiness is not just a fleeting emotion; it is a state of mind and a way of life. The study of happiness, or positive psychology, has garnered significant attention in recent years as researchers delve into the depths of what makes us truly happy. Beyond material possessions and achievements, happiness is an intricate dance of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors that can be cultivated and embraced in everyday life. By exploring the fascinating realm of the psychology of happiness, we uncover the secrets to finding joy in the ordinary moments of life.

Happiness: More Than a Smile

When we think of happiness, we often envision smiling faces and joyous laughter. While these are manifestations of happiness, the concept goes far beyond momentary elation. Positive psychology defines happiness as a combination of positive emotions, engagement, positive relationships, meaning, and accomplishment. It encompasses the ability to savor life's little pleasures while having a sense of purpose and direction.

The Hedonic Treadmill

Have you ever wondered why a promotion or a new possession brings temporary bliss, but soon, you find yourself back at your baseline level of happiness? This phenomenon is known as the "hedonic treadmill." It suggests that humans have a baseline level of happiness to which they eventually return, regardless of positive or negative life events. The key to sustained happiness lies in understanding and transcending this treadmill.

The Power of Positive Emotions

Positive emotions are like drops of nectar that nourish our soul. Gratitude, joy, love, and compassion are among the many positive emotions that contribute to our overall well-being. Practicing gratitude, for instance, has been scientifically proven to increase happiness and life satisfaction. By focusing on the positive aspects of our lives, we can gradually shift our perspective towards optimism.

Mindfulness and Flow

In our fast-paced lives, we often forget to live in the present moment. Mindfulness, a state of non-judgmental awareness of the present, can help us break free from the clutches of regrets about the past and anxieties about the future. By embracing mindfulness, we can savor the richness of each experience, no matter how mundane, and find joy in the simple act of being.

Flow, on the other hand, is a state of complete immersion and focus in an activity, where time seems to slip away. It often occurs when we are engaged in tasks that match our skills and challenge us just enough. By identifying and nurturing our flow activities, we can enhance our happiness and productivity.

The Impact of Social Connections

Humans are social creatures, and our relationships play a vital role in our happiness. Positive social interactions not only provide emotional support but also contribute to our overall well-being. Cultivating meaningful relationships and expressing gratitude and kindness towards others can create a positive feedback loop of happiness.

Purpose and Meaning

A life without purpose can feel hollow and unfulfilling. Finding meaning in what we do, whether it's through our work, hobbies, or helping others, gives us a sense of direction and fulfillment. Engaging in activities that align with our values and beliefs can ignite the flame of purpose and lead to lasting happiness.

Gratitude Journaling and Acts of Kindness

One simple yet effective exercise to boost happiness is keeping a gratitude journal. Each day, take a few moments to jot down things you are grateful for. This practice helps shift your focus from what's lacking to what you have, fostering a more positive outlook on life.

Similarly, performing acts of kindness can generate a sense of joy both for the giver and the recipient. Whether it's helping a friend in need, volunteering in your community, or even offering a genuine compliment, kindness has the power to uplift spirits and create a ripple effect of positivity.

The pursuit of happiness is not an elusive dream; it is a journey that begins with understanding the psychology behind it. By embracing positive emotions, practicing mindfulness, nurturing meaningful relationships, and finding purpose, we can unlock the door to happiness in our everyday lives. Remember that happiness is not a destination; it's a way of traveling through life, appreciating the beauty of each step along the way. So, let us embark on this journey together, and let joy light up our lives, one moment at a time.

How to heal, and get the most out of, your sleep cycle

Good sleep is something that most of us know we don’t get enough of—yet often, it’s one of the last things we think about when we decide to prioritize our health. One in four Canadians have trouble sleeping, and[1] studies show that Canadians between the ages of 35 and 49 get the least amount of sleep per night. There are myriad reasons why, on an individual level, that may be. High stress, for example, poor mental health, or the arrival of a new baby can impact an entire household’s sleep quality.

“Sleep is connected to every single process in our bodies,” says Jillian Dowling, the certified sleep consultant behind Niagara-based company Sleep Wise, which helps people of all ages improve their sleep. “You can connect anything, any ailment… like as far as cancer, Alzheimer's disease… really anything can on some level be associated to poor sleep.”

Sleep is regulated by our circadian rhythm, a 24-hour internal clock that tunes and controls our bodily processes.[2]Humans sleep to heal the body, consolidate memories, and keep organs functioning properly, meaning that sleep deprivation can have serious consequences on physical and mental health.

“Most adults need between seven and nine hours a night, and it’s funny, because most of them tell me they’re sleeping around six,” says Dowling.

When we don’t get enough sleep—or enough good quality sleep—we increase our risk of developing other chronic illnesses like obesity,[3] diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and depression.[4] We miss out on important cues, like when to eat and when to release certain hormones.[5] People who get enough sleep get sick less often. They’re more likely to maintain a healthy weight, perform at a higher level at school and work, and have better relationships. Sleep deprivation can also have more direct, immediate consequences—falling asleep at the wheel of a car, for example, can cause serious injury or death. Older adults that are sleep-deprived may be more likely to fall or break a bone.[6]

If you have trouble sleeping, repairing your sleep cycle may seem like an impossible task. But it may only take you a month, says Dowling, if you’re willing to make certain changes.

“[Fixing sleep], it does take time and there is work involved, but there are things that you can do to get back on track,” says Dowling.

The best place to start is by eliminating light—the enemy of sleep—from your sleeping environment. Keep your bedroom as dark as possible. Install black out curtains, cover electronics that emit blinking light, and invest in a sleep mask.

Remember to turn off your phone an hour before bed—blue light from screens stop the release of melatonin, the hormone that makes us tired, and increase the release of cortisol, a stress hormone that keeps us awake.

Timing your sleep right is also important. Maintaining your circadian rhythm is all about consistency, and “supporting it means going to bed at the same time every night and waking up at the same time every morning.”

Expert Contribution by:

Jillian Dowling, Founder of Sleep Wise

Jillian Dowling is a certified sleep consultant based in Niagara. In 2012, she founded Sleep Wise, a company through which she develops holistic, non-medical sleep plans and programs for infants, toddlers, children, teens, and adults, as well as for corporate groups. You can reach her at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

[1] https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/82-003-x/2022003/article/00001-eng.htm#[2]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519507/#:~:text=The%20regulation%20of%20sleep%20is,light%20changes%20in%20our%20environment.[3]https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/sleep/#:~:text=Sleep%20Deficiency%20and%20Eating%20Behaviors,allowed%20free%20access%20to%20food.[4] https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/diabetes-sleep.html#:~:text=One%20in%20three%20US%20adults,disease%2C%20obesity%2C%20and%20depression.[5]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519507/#:~:text=The%20regulation%20of%20sleep%20is,light%20changes%20in%20our%20environment.[6] https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-deprivation

Life is a journey filled with special moments, and milestones provide an opportunity to reflect on our accomplishments, growth, and shared experiences. Among these milestones, anniversaries hold a unique place in our hearts. Whether it's a wedding anniversary, the anniversary of a business venture, or even the commemoration of a personal achievement, these significant occasions deserve to be celebrated with joy, gratitude, and a touch of nostalgia. Let's explore the importance of celebrating milestones, specifically anniversaries, and delve into creative ways to honour and cherish these remarkable moments.

1. Reflection and Gratitude:

Anniversaries allow us to pause and reflect upon the journey we've undertaken. They offer a chance to appreciate the hurdles we've overcome, the lessons we've learned, and the growth we've experienced. Taking the time to express gratitude for the people and circumstances that have contributed to our journey can be immensely rewarding. It's an opportunity to acknowledge the support of loved ones, mentors, colleagues, and customers who have played a significant role in our accomplishments.

2. Strengthening Bonds:

Anniversaries serve as reminders of the meaningful connections we've forged along the way. They provide an occasion to celebrate the love, trust, and partnership in our personal relationships or the loyalty and dedication in our professional collaborations. By acknowledging and commemorating these milestones, we reinforce the bonds that hold us together, creating a sense of unity, and deepening our relationships with those who have shared our journey.

3. Setting New Goals:

While anniversaries are a time to reflect on past achievements, they also offer an opportunity to set new goals for the future. They encourage us to evaluate where we stand in our personal or professional lives and envision the path ahead. By setting ambitious yet attainable objectives, we infuse our journey with renewed enthusiasm and purpose. Anniversaries, therefore, act as catalysts for personal and professional growth, motivating us to strive for greater heights.

4. Commemorative Rituals and Traditions:

Marking anniversaries with special rituals and traditions enhances their significance. For instance, couples may choose to recreate their wedding day, reliving cherished memories and reaffirming their commitment to each other. In a professional setting, organizations can organize events that honor the contributions of employees, showcasing their dedication and loyalty. Establishing these rituals helps build a sense of continuity, reinforces values, and fosters a strong sense of belonging.

5. Unique Celebratory Ideas:

There are countless creative ways to celebrate anniversaries that can make these milestones truly unforgettable. Some ideas include:

a) Plan a surprise gathering: Organize a surprise party or intimate get-together with friends, family, or colleagues to celebrate the occasion and express appreciation.

b) Create a time capsule: Collect mementos, photographs, and handwritten notes that encapsulate the essence of the journey. Store them in a time capsule to be opened on future anniversaries, allowing for reflection and nostalgia.

c) Travel or take a retreat: Embark on a special trip or retreat that provides a refreshing change of scenery and offers an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones or oneself.

d) Volunteer or give back: Dedicate the anniversary to a charitable cause by organizing a volunteer activity or donating to a meaningful organization, spreading joy to others while celebrating personal milestones.

As we navigate through life, anniversaries serve as precious markers along our journey. They remind us of the joys, challenges, and growth we've experienced. By celebrating these milestones, we acknowledge our achievements, express gratitude to those who have supported us, and set new goals for the future. Whether it's a wedding anniversary, business milestone, or personal achievement, let us embrace the joy of anniversaries and create lasting memories that inspire us to continue thriving.

Canadians want to feel better at work. We sat down with a workplace wellness specialist to learn how companies can make that happen.

Quiet quitting. The great resignation. These are a few of the phenomena motivating Canadian employers to rethink their strategies for retaining their teams, says workplace wellness specialist Michelle Johnston.

“Employers are looking to enrich the employee experience, and I think they're turning to wellness programs to do that,” says Johnston, who founded her company—WorkingWell—to help organizations design employee wellness programs that better the employee experience.

The pandemic accelerated discussions around workplace wellness, a term that generally describes policies, programs, and activities designed to positively impact employee health and behaviour. Pre-pandemic, 80 per cent of working Canadians reported that they would experience improved overall wellbeing if their employer offered personalized wellness programs.[1] This past April, nearly half of Canadians reported feeling more sensitive to stress during the COVID-19 pandemic than they did before its onset, according to a LifeWorks Inc. Mental Health Index.[2]

“People are being mindful about how they want to show up at work, and they’re realizing how precious their time and attention is,” says Johnston.

The benefits of implementing a corporate wellness program are myriad: Employees are happier,[3] more present and productive,[4] and they feel more connected to their company and teams.[5] Here are some of the corporate wellness trends companies might want to focus on in 2023.

Stress Management

Managing employee stress has been, and will continue to be, top of mind for employers, says Johnston. Stress-related wellness programs generally teach employees tactics for reducing, or at the very least, managing, stress. They can look like informal weekly drop-in classes for activities dedicated to motivation and mindfulness, such as yoga or Tai-Chi, or formal training programs that target workplace stress. 

“I think there's [also] an appetite for things that are fun and a little lighter,” says Johnston, who has helped her clients organize virtual cooking classes. “People are really enjoying those sessions.”

The Right to Disconnect

During the pandemic, many remote and hybrid employees working from home had trouble unplugging from their jobs at the end of the workday. New legislation, however, could encourage disconnecting. 

This past June, Ontario introduced right-to-disconnect legislation, whereby employers with 25 or more employees must have and provide their workers with a written policy for disconnecting from work at the end of the day.[6] By Canada’s Employment Standards Act definition, disconnecting from work means freeing yourself from engaging with after-hours emails, messages, and video and phone calls.

“It’s one way that work-life balance is being legislated,” says Johnston.

Experts say that disconnecting from work can boost creativity.[7] Companies that encourage their staff to unplug after working hours experience greater employee retention, build better working communities, and prevent employee burnout.[8]  

Gamifying Wellness

Gamified wellness programs are grounded in competition, incentives, and achievement awards. In short, they use games to promote wellness.

“If there's any way for people to get involved in competitions […] employees are loving that,” says Johnston.

Gamified wellness programs don’t have to be expensive, she adds. In fact, implementing one can be simple and cheap. A gamified wellness program can consist of daily mindfulness challenges, whereby employees complete an activity like meditating or attending an in-office yoga class to compete for points. Some apps, where employees complete tasks to win badges and leaderboard space, do some of the work for employers.

“People report appreciating the goals that are ahead of them in [these] programs,” says Johnston. “And they also appreciate the camaraderie that it creates with others.”

Expert Contribution:

Michelle Johnston, Workplace Wellness Specialist

Michelle Johnston is the founder of WorkingWell, a company dedicated to elevating and transforming the employee-employer relationship through the delivery of workplace wellness services. With over two decades of experience, Michelle works successfully with organizations across Canada helping them create a culture of trust, respect, and wellbeing.

Sources:

[1] https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/majority-of-working-canadians-say-personalized-wellness-programs-would-improve-wellbeing-843928130.html

[2] https://lifeworks.com/en/resource/mental-health-index™-report-april-2022

[3] https://www.osfhealthcare.org/blog/employee-wellness-programs-create-healthy-happy-employees/

[4] https://www.entrepreneur.com/living/do-wellness-programs-make-employees-more-productive-the/309685

[5] https://kamalayaconnect.com/benefits-of-wellness-programs/

[6] https://www.ontario.ca/document/your-guide-employment-standards-act-0/written-policy-disconnecting-from-work

[7] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/12/121212204826.htm

[8] https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2020/03/16/eight-benefits-of-encouraging-employees-to-disconnect-on-time/?sh=3cd4d59248c6