Category: The Doctor Is In
New Year's Resolutions Women Really Should Keep
It’s 2012 and most momma types are on the hunt for ways to make sure this year gets started on the best possible note, makes for some great memories and fill itself with positivity whether it be getting into shape, less arguing, healthier food, whatever we personally take stock in. We also know that making [...]
Ease Holiday Stress, Naturally
As the holiday season revs up, most of us feel excitement and anticipation as we prepare for gatherings, feasts and gift giving. We all have a vision of how we’d like the holiday to play out, whether it is coordinating the parents and in-laws for a big “Griswold Family Christmas”, or watching your children opening [...]
Top 10 Signs That You've Eaten Too Much of Your Kids Halloween Candy
The sugar hangover from Halloween is causing major damage. Parents are flying through the streets trying to get their small children to school on time. Everywhere you look, adults are sugar crashing – passed out on the side of the road, on the couch, over the computer at 4 p.m. It’s all our kids fault. [...]
Getting Positive About Post-Partum Depression
Editor’s Note: Having coped with a wicked bout of post-partum depression myself, I am honored to have Esther Kane here today to talk about this important topic that hits so many new moms hard. Thanks to Esther for your perspective and helping hand. Motherhood is wonderful and magical…and sometimes none of the above. It’s great [...]
Bed Wetting. Helping Our Kids Overcome
For some kids, potty training is a matter of just getting the hang of things. Moms of 4 year olds celebrate kids being out of diapers forever and we cheer for the night that a dry bed is permanent. But, for many kids the diapers and bed wetting linger well beyond the preschool years and [...]
Family Health – What Do Parents Think?
I read an article years ago that has stayed with me. It said that we unconsciously choose friends who are on the same attractiveness level as we see ourselves. If that’s true, I must be smokin’ hot! My day is definitely looking up. And, if that’s true for attractiveness, I’m guessing that it’s also true [...]
Hunting for the Light – Fighting off Seasonal Affective Disorder
Editor’s Note: Registered Clinical Counselor Esther Kane wrote a column for OBE several years ago on how to help fight off those Winter blues that hit so many people hard this time of year. As those super gray days settle in, I thought it would be a good time to take a look at it [...]
Esther Kane – Putting The Past Where it Belongs, Finding Closure
In my therapy practice, the work lately seems to be about helping clients release and let go of ‘unfinished business’ from the past; whether it’s an old romance that still niggles away at their psyche, healing from a past trauma, or coming to terms with one’s family-of-origin and learning to reposition oneself in our families [...]
Time to Give Your Kids Immune System A Boost
Editor’s Note: While we are gearing our kids up for getting back to school, one thing that’s easy to overlook is getting their insides ready to go as well. The school year is what we refer to as the “Goo Season” around our house where the kiddo brings home everything that the classroom can hand [...]
Back-to-School 2010 – Back Care Begins with the Backpack
Editor’s Note: Good morning. When it comes to back-to-school health, there are some basics that every parent needs to know. One of the most important is how to help kids take care of their backs – especially as they lug their gear to school on their shoulders each morning. Cumberland chiropractor Dr. Colin Wilson is [...]
Top 10 Herbal Remedies for Kids
Editor’s Note: It’s nearly the middle of August and one thing that I have heard resonating throughout parenting circles this year is how tough summer has been on our kids (and our own) immune systems. During a season when we’re all supposed to be spending lazy days on the beach or at backyard picnics, many [...]
Esther Kane – Finding Happiness In Yourself
Recently, I’ve been hearing a lot of stories from clients about how unhappy they are in their present circumstances, and if only they could have more money, land a better job, move somewhere more exciting, find the right partner,__________(fill in the blank), life would be oh-so-much-better. I am really good at this form of wishful [...]
How Your Environment Effects Your Family Health
Editor’s Note: Happy Friday, readers! This morning we have Dr. Amy Wells discussing environmental medicine – how things in your environment from off-gassing plastics to shampoo and polyester blankets – can effect your health. Here she is: Environmental medicine is a personal interest of mine. I was first introduced to the concept in naturopathic medical [...]
Aromatherapy Makes Motherhood Sweeter
Editor’s Note: Good morning. The lovely Rhonda Parker is here with the scoop on aromatherapy and what it can do for you. Enjoy. As moms, we are constantly reading labels and trying to find healthy choices for our families. When kids are sick or unhappy, finding healthy and natural ways to help them feel better [...]
Women's Health – Mid-Life Eating Disorders
I am seeing more and more women ages 30+ in my practice who are struggling with disordered eating. Many people think that eating disorders are only for teens and women in their twenties, but research shows this is absolutely false. In fact, the following statistics will most likely shock you. I was lucky enough to [...]
Sick of Dust? Maybe More Than You Think
Editor’s Note: If you missed Robin’s morning post on ways to eat local this spring, you can read it HERE. Now, here’s Sharon Daly from ecoLife Solutions with the dish on dust. Very informative info that may just have you breaking out the mop and dust clothes today! Enjoy. Many of us wait until spring [...]
Traditional Chinese Medicine In Pregnancy
Editor’s Note: Good morning readers. Registered Acupuncturist and Herbalist Michelle Hughes is here discussing the use of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine during pregnancy. Here she is: Treating women during pregnancy is an area of Traditional Chinese medicine that is continuing to grow, as more and more women realize the benefits of including acupuncture and Chinese [...]
Naturopathy & Autism Spectrum Disorder
Editor’s Note: Happy Friday! Dr. Amy Wells is here with a naturopathic view of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Have a great day. Here she is: This month, I thought I’d shed some naturopathic perspectives on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a disorder affecting many families, regardless of race or socioeconomic status. ASD is defined by the Autism Society of [...]
Sunshine in a Bottle – Why We Need a Daily Dose of Vitamin D
Editor’s Note: Happy Friday! This morning Dr. Amy Wells is on site discussing the benefits of Vitamin D. Bring on the sunshine! Here she is: After the craziness of Christmas and New Year’s celebrations died down, I made the mistake of saying to my toddler one morning “Okay, I’m ready for Summer now!” Every morning [...]
Esther Kane – Winter Doesn't Have to Be Blue
Editor’s Note: Good morning. We have Esther Kane with us discussing what ails many people during these months of darkness – Seasonal Affective Disorder. Here she is: As a psychotherapist, this is my busiest time of year. Why? Because a lot of people are really bummed out and don’t understand why. They come to me [...]
Hand Sanitizer – Not Every Germ Killer is Equal
While I was in Vancouver last week, one of the pervasive concerns amongst the crew – none of whom were Canadian except for me – was not getting sick. This was especially true for the moms in the group who, even though they were in professional mode and sans kids, found themselves seriously concerned about [...]
What to Do About The Flu
Editor’s Note: Happy Friday! There is some serious goo going around town right now. So, we thought we’d pass along some resources and info this afternoon. If you missed this morning’s story, Bevin gave us some great advice on some DIY ways to conserve heat this season. Check it out HERE. There’s a wild wave [...]
Top 10 Immunity Boosters for Kids
Editor’s Note: Happy Friday. This morning we have Dr. Amy Wells serving up ten of her favorite immunity builders for children. With cold and flu season ready to strike, she certainly got me thinking about the state of my family’s immune system, especially the small person of the house. Here she is: While autumn signifies the end of summer [...]
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Every year, the ninth day of the ninth month is a time to acknowledge and educate about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). This disorder is a very real and irreversible imbalance for many children and adults. Often under diagnosed and mistaken for other behavior disorders, such as Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder (ADHD/ADD), FASD has a [...]
Five Tools for Overcoming Anxiety
Editor’s Note: Good morning, the insightful and lovely Esther Kane is here on OBE this morning to share with us a bit of her personal story about dealing with anxiety. This topic is one that is close to my heart, as anxiety has stopped me from moving in a positive direction so many times in [...]
The Good & Bad About Fluoride
Editor’s Note: Good morning. Dr. Amy Wells is here today talking shop about teeth and the ongoing debate about the use of fluoride. As usual, I learned a ton of interesting information. Enjoy your Friday. The topic of teeth seems to keep popping up in our household this month. My sister was horrified to report [...]
Seafood to Avoid During Pregnancy
Editor’s Note: Happy Friday (I am sooooo happy). It’s date night at the 30-day Food Challenge HQ and we are off for an evening of adult conversation and some good food. The Great Escape, Bisque, Locals and Anderton Bistro-Pub are all hosting a great Friday night of local delights. So, make a reservation, round up [...]
Dr. Amy Wells – Pesticides Effect on Kids
Editor’s Note: Good Morning! Today is the last day to get yourself registered for the 30-Day Challenge. Whether you make it to one or all of the events, registering means you get cool bonus material AND get a chance at all kinds of prizes. We are registering people live at Brambles from Noon to 6 [...]
Using Anti-Depression Meds in Pregnancy
I know the last few cool days of rain in the Valley are lovely, but the continuous sunshine just seems to be infecting us all with joy. It is the start of the season of moist plums, laughter at the water park, sandy toes, breezy fragrant endless evenings, and picking out corn kernels from your [...]
Parent Wellness – Facing Fear
I had no choice. I had to write this article about the fears that accompany motherhood. I apologize in advance for the heaviness of the topic. I realize it is a contrast from the usual sweet spirit of most Our Big Earth posts, but like I said, I had no choice. Let me explain. It [...]
Dr. Amy Wells – Overcoming Male Infertility
Good morning, OBE readers. I thought I’d begin my column today by addressing some of the comments regarding my last article on female fertility. I must admit I’m (pleasantly) surprised with all the attention Natural Fertility Management received. I agree – it is a shame that we aren’t taught more about this in school, as [...]
Overcome Infertility with Chinese Medicine
Infertility rates have increased dramatically in the last decade with one in six North American couples experiencing difficulties conceiving. This is an extremely difficult time for most couples, a roller coaster of emotions, frustration, anger, sadness and regret. Traditional Chinese medicine has been treating infertility for over two thousand years and has recently been gaining [...]
Dr. Amy Wells – Taking Charge of Our Fertility
Editor’s Note: Good Morning. Dr. Amy Wells is here this morning talking about a hot topic in our house right now – fertility. Plugging in to your body cues is an amazing way to feel empowered when working on getting pregnant. On a couple of other notes, I posed the question over on our Facebook [...]
Prevention to Keep Kids Asthma at Bay
As I chase my toddler around the backyard on these Spring afternoons, I breathe deeply the fresh newness of this season. I watch as my little guy gets out of breath from running, takes a quick five-second rest and recovers enough to continue playtime. I take a minute to be thankful for his gift of [...]
Kids Health – The Pros of Probiotics
Nature provides us with a bundle of resources that help heal our bodies. There are definitely a handful that I couldn’t operate my practice without, one of which is probiotics. Probiotics, also known as good gut bacteria or acidophilus, are receiving more attention for their impact on health. The literal translation is “for life” as [...]
Healing Childhood Eczema Naturally
Our skin is an amazing thing. The largest detoxifying organ of our body, our skin functions as a protective barrier from the outside world while providing a route of elimination for waste products within. As kids, our skin takes a beating. Learning to walk results in tumbles and bruises. Bike riding spills end up with [...]
Winter Nutrition From The Grocery “Garden”
Another new year! But with the remnants of snow it is hardly a time to be gardening. So I thought we’d take a look at a few common foods available at the grocery “garden!” Typically the new year ushers in new year’s resolutions, and eating healthier is a common goals after the onslaught of Christmas [...]
Mommy Talk – Cure Post-Holiday Blues
It hit me about 9 a.m. yesterday morning – Christmas is over. All the wind up, the preparation, the crazies (which I could have totally lived without) and sugar rushes are now just a memory and, whew – I feel a little low. While we kept it all pretty darn modest this year – no [...]
Milk…Does It Really Do A Child's Body Good?
As an adult, I have fond childhood memories of evening dinners with my family that included good conversation, a home cooked meal and a tall glass of ice cold milk to wash it all down. Milk was a staple in our house, as it was in many others. I remember a neighbor telling mom one [...]
Diet Is Key to Keep Children's Ear Infections Away
Editor’s Note: With the Comox Valley nearly on the eve of the municipal election, we received a timely letter (now posted in our Letters section) about school trustee races from Valley parent and educator Brent Reid offering his perspective on critical races that are in voters hands. Brent’s is one opinion on a very heated [...]
Building Immunity for Children, Naturally
A week ago, my little guy and I were walking by Thrifty’s and I was showing him how the leaves on the two big trees out front where changing from green to yellow, and how when we walked over the leaves on the sidewalk, they made this beautiful crispy, crackling noise. Yesterday, as we walked [...]
Natural Remedies for Hyperactive Kids
Ahhh, September! The time of the year for new beginnings and fresh starts. As our children head back to the classrooms, meet new friends, and adjust to new teachers, we expect this transition to go smoothly and quietly. Frustration can soon set in when Johnny can’t seem to get out the door in the mornings [...]
Mommy Talk – Behavioural Modification
Editor’s Note: Good Morning! If you are looking for some fun social time today where you can check out some new businesses in the Valley, make sure to hit the grand opening parties over at Firefly: New Beginnings on Fifth Street in Courtenay and Dark Side Chocolates on Dunsmuir in Cumberland. These mom-owned businesses are [...]
Fish Oils & Children's Health
When I remind my dad to take his omega 3’s, it will inevitably result in a history lesson on Newfoundland’s cod fishery! That being said, my grandmother knew the benefit of subjecting her kids to their daily spoonful of cod liver oil. And back then, I’m told, there wasn’t lemon flavour! I started my little [...]
Summer Sun Safety
Editor’s Note: Patti Fletcher is taking a break this Summer, on sabbatical from her post as Comox Rec Program Director. Mandy Johns has stepped in and graciously agreed to write Patti’s column while she’s on leave. Mandy is busy this Summer filling in for Patti all over the place and we are grateful that she [...]
Natural First-Aid Kit
As we head into the middle of June with high expectations of warm summer days filled with fun adventures, I can’t help but feel a little hesitant. While I’m excited for outdoor exploring time with my toddler, I’m also anticipating a few more bumps, cuts and tears as I watch him run faster than his [...]
Fight Fatigue Naturally
When deciding on this month’s topic, I was noticing the amazing contributions of many of our valley’s Momprenuers (including you, Robin!!) and wondering if they have a secret reservoir of energy hidden in their basement, and how do I get my hands on it! In my practice, about 75% of the moms I see will [...]
A Guide to Natural Allergy Remedies
Pollens Be Gone!! Spring is sprung, the grass is green…the grass, the weeds, the trees…gazoontite!! While we all look forward to warm sunny weather and longer days, the ‘blooming’ flowers and plants of spring can cause havoc for many kids and parents alike. How can we, as parents, encourage our little people to get some [...]
The Importance of Nutrition in a Child's Development
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” I was never quite sure what the heck my parents meant by that enduring little phrase until our tiny person showed up and NOTHING became more painful than to watch her slug through a horrible bout of sickness. I’m not one to pound a huge [...]
