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Author: Kristen Mcbain

  • Outdoor Therapy

    Outdoor Therapy

    Clear Your Mind with Some Fresh Air

    The benefits of outdoor activity are well known. Whether you’re hiking, biking, swimming, or running, these activities are all great ways to get your heart rate up and stay healthy. However, less physically demanding outdoor activities (such as gardening or washing a car) are also good for your health. Mental health, that is. Sometimes just being outdoors makes you feel good, and it’s no wonder. Fresh air, open space, sunshine, greenery…who doesn’t love these things? Especially after being cooped up in an office or classroom for hours on end every day, being outdoors is a sure-fire way to boost your mood and make you feel more relaxed.

    The positive influence of the outdoors is so great that it is even being recommended as a form of therapy in and of itself.1 Instead of relying on pharmacological intervention, some therapists recommend “outdoor therapy” as an alternative way to help people with affective disorders (such as depression).2 In general, it has been found that people who try outdoor therapy experience “improvements in self-concept, self-acceptance and more realistic self-perceptions, and reduced conflict, depression, and anxiety.”3 These effects have been shown with a variety of individuals of all ages, genders, races, personality types, and mental health statuses.4 Of course anyone can benefit from outdoor therapy, even if you’re simply having a bad day or are feeling a little under-the-weather.

    There’s no one particular activity which is recommended above others as the best form of outdoor therapy; however, it has been noted that a short camping trip (even a mock-camping trip in one’s own backyard!) can be a remarkably effective way to reduce stress, anxiety, or bad mood.5 This may be due to the fact that camping is meant to take you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life where most of one’s stress originates. When you’re camping you don’t have to worry about studying for an upcoming midterm or fret about that long list of things “to do.” In fact, when you’re camping the only things you really need to worry about are what you’re going to cook for your next meal and keeping ample wood on the fire. I wouldn’t necessarily classify these things under “worries,” however. Even though it may just be for a couple days, camping allows you to relax and rejuvenate, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to once again tackle all life’s challenges. Granted, not everyone considers giving up all connections to civilization for a weekend foray into the depths of the wilderness to be a relaxing experience. If you don’t like camping, then it probably won’t help to ease your stress or anxiety. Conversely, it will probably increase your bad mood, which would be counter-productive. That’s why outdoor therapy can be tailored to individual preferences. If you’re an athletic person, then maybe going for a run or hiking with some friends will boost your mood. On the other hand, if you just need some time to yourself and prefer something a little more low-key, then just grab a book and head to the local park for a quiet afternoon.

    So next time you’re in a bad mood, feeling stressed out, lonely, overwhelmed, frustrated, or you simply want some alone time- head outside and try some outdoor therapy. Whether you decide to go for a five kilometer run or grab a coffee and read a good book, you’ll be amazed at how much better you feel after stepping outside to clear your mind.

     

     

     

     

  • Getting Your Volunteer Hours the Old-Fashioned Way

    Getting Your Volunteer Hours the Old-Fashioned Way

    Getting Your Volunteer Hours The Old-Fashioned Way

    In order to graduate high school, students must complete 40 hours of volunteer work. Rather than dragging it out over the course of an entire high school career, why not get them all done at once? And for that matter, even learn something while you are at it? If you’re interested thus far, you should look into volunteering with your local history museum.

    You will often find that any city’s museum would welcome student volunteers, especially those who have a vested interest in history or plans to continue historical studies into university.

    Maja Bannerman, Public Programmer for the Niagara Falls History Museum said that the museum accepts volunteers aged 10 to 80. Bannerman commented that their graveyard tour program in specific attracts many student volunteers, “a lot of the high school students are doing their hours and getting beyond what they need,” she added.

    The graveyard tour has students dress up in period clothing and imitate those buried in the Lundy’s Lane Battle of 1814 graveyard.  These students put on three shows per night, every Friday and Saturday for the last three weeks in October. Beyond the official shows, there are numerous dress rehearsals and technical rehearsals throughout September in preparation for the show. Though it is a large time commitment, you could easily complete your volunteer hours by the end of October, and you’d have some great stories to tell from the experience.

    Though the Graveyard Tour is only one program at one museum, it is a fine example of an unconventional way to complete your volunteer hours quickly. Beyond getting your required volunteering done, there is enormous opportunity to learn something new about the place you live.

    However, your involvement does not have to stop there. By volunteering to the best of your abilities, you can show yourself to be a very useful asset to the museum. If you are particularly talented, it is possible to turn your volunteer position into a future job or career.

    “There have been students in the past who have attained paid positions here,” Bannerman said. Making such connections through volunteering can lead to a job, a career, or even just an excellent reference for your resume. It is very important to begin making connections like this while you are still in high school, as they will carry you through your college or university years and into the real world.

  • Stop Bullying ! You’ll have more friends !

    Stop Bullying ! You’ll have more friends !

    BULLYING – THE CHANGE IS WITHIN YOU

    The issue of bullying has been talked about a lot over the past year in the media and in schools. In particular, the bullying of LGBT youth has led to many unfortunate cases where suicide felt like the only way out. Are you or someone you know being bullied? Are you a bully? Ask yourself these important questions and you can make a difference in by taking steps to change your behaviour or helping those who you see being bullied by others.

    If you have bullied others, think of the reasons why you did it. Did you want to look cool in front of your friends? How did it make you feel after you bullied the person? One of the best ways to stop this behaviour is to put yourself in the shoes of the person being bullied. If you were called those names, reflect on how you would feel. Often, realizing the power of your words is the best medicine to stop such actions.

    Don’t put yourself into a box – just because you may have bullied people before, it does not mean you still have to do it now. The power to change is within all of us! By changing your behaviour, you will positively impact everyone around you. Be the person in your school who sets an example and says no to being a bully. Change starts with one person and grows larger from there.

    If you have been bullied, or are currently being bullied, reach out to someone you care about. If you feel like they would not understand, or you don’t feel comfortable talking to them, there are many anonymous and free services where people are ready to help you at any time of the day. Kids Help Phone is a great example. Even though it may seem futile, talking with someone and having a human connection with someone who wants to listen to you and help you is extremely beneficial to your mental health. Someone who is “outside” of your situation can give you advice that you may not hear from someone that is close to you. The anonymity of a service like Kids Help Phone allows you to be completely honest about your thoughts and feelings without the fear of being judged.

    You can also volunteer to help with programs that raise awareness about the effects of bullying, or create your own campaign in your school. Awareness of the issue will give others the confidence to speak up when they see someone being bullied.

    If you need help, please do not hesitate to reach out to someone. There is strength in numbers, and you will get through this.

  • Ambulance Attendant and Paramedic

    Ambulance Attendant and Paramedic

    On the front line

    Ambulance attendants include emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and first aid attendants. They are on the front lines of Canada’s emergency health care system. They work with police officers, fire fighters, and hospital emergency department personnel. They’re the first medical personnel on the scene when there’s an accident or other medical emergency. They provide life support care to the sick and injured at the scene of the accident and transport them to hospitals or other medical facilities.

    Ambulance attendants work mainly for hospitals and ambulance services. Many industrial, construction and mining companies employ first aid attendants or paramedics to care for workers who are injured or become ill on the job.

    This job is physically, mentally and psychologically demanding. Shift work is a normal part of the job. Frequently, you perform your duties under crisis conditions, often in extreme situations, where there is little room for error. In such circumstances, you are making critical life-saving decisions and have to do so quickly and accurately.

    Do you have what it takes?

    You use the latest medical technology to assess the extent of an injury or illness and to manage or treat the patient’s condition on their way to the hospital. You are also responsible for taking control of accident scenes in order to protect the patient and to alert other rescue personnel and public bystanders. It is essential that you communicate clearly and accurately with your co- workers, the public and the patient’s families, some of whom may be very upset.

    Along with the many challenges are the rewards. Ambulance attendants are well respected in the health care system, and you have the satisfaction that comes from knowing that the medical help you provide can make a difference in saving lives.

    Potential employers will be impressed with you if you are reliable and cool in a crisis. You should take pride in your work and deal well with other people, especially in conditions of extreme stress. Perhaps most importantly, you need an ability to react quickly and accurately in emergency situations. And you must have a great deal of compassion for the sick and the injured.

     

  • Food Not Bombs serving up solutions

    Food Not Bombs serving up solutions

    In the late 1970s and 1980s, a movement called FNB began, which was geared towards feeding society, while at the same time, providing a critique of how much money was being spent on war when a significant portion of the population was starving. The food used was reclaimed and/or donated, so corporate interests were in no way favoured. Throughout the years, Food Not Bombs (FNB) has grown internationally with chapters being established all over the World.

    FNB Niagara is our local sector, and works hand in hand with Brock University’s own Ontario Public Interest Research Group (O.P.I.R.G.), which offers a wide variety of services and resources to the Brock community in regards to anti-oppression work and social justice.

    “I got involved with FNB Niagara because I am interested in several of the social justice issues that the movement attempts to address, like the military industrial complex, poverty in the face of abundance, animal rights and environmental issues,” said Jaimie Godard, FNB volunteer and local community activist. “FNB provides students with free meals, volunteer opportunities, information, catering events/fundraisers/protests and support from a network of people striving for positive social change on a local and global level.”

    Students, former students, community activists and members make up the volunteers who support FNB Niagara from year to year. Contributions can be made in many ways, as some volunteer duties include food pick-up, cooking, serving, clean-up, advertising and helping to plan events. For example, once a month, a few FNB members volunteer with the Live Free Collective at The Raft, a local youth shelter, cooking and serving vegan food to those in need. No matter how individuals choose to help, their efforts never go unacknowledged or unappreciated.

    Also, the individuals and groups who generously donate the food cannot be forgotten. This list includes The St. Catharines Farmers Market, The Peanut Mill, De la Terre, Brock’s Develop. Integrate. Grow. (D.I.G.) and a handful of supportive locals who often give from their own gardens. When produce, bread and other food cannot be sold by these outlets, a collection is arranged so that FNB can pick them up at a scheduled time. In doing this, more personal relationships are formed between local providers and FNB, which leads to larger amounts donated, better quality food on a more regular basis.

    This year, FNB Niagara has been lucky enough to have more students sign up to volunteer through a course that runs at Brock called Foundations in Service Learning (SOCI 1F99), which examines philosophies, social histories and politics of community service, combined with experiential learning and practices of self-reflection on community engagement.

    “I think FNB holds a valuable role at Brock because it raises awareness about issues that can sometimes be overlooked in an academic setting,” said Godard. “It provides a means of putting theory into practice. Students not only learn the reasons why we do what we do, but also have the chance to take action. I hope others will get more involved, because our individual choices can have a profound effect on the lives of others.”

    The involvement within FNB Niagara this year has resulted in many accomplishments. Since April, healthy vegan meals have been cooked and served in Montebello Park in St. Catharines every Sunday, which generates a sense of unity. As well, FNB Niagara has catered several events, including Take Back the Night, Vegan Super Friends and numerous O.P.I.R.G. fundraisers.

    Ensuring that the meals provided by FNB are vegan is of huge importance, which makes them different from other organizations that aim to feed the hungry. The treatment of animals is something that FNB feels very passionately about.

    “It is important that the food is vegan because it is non-violent, inclusive and recognizes the oppression and suffering of non-human animals, as well as the inefficiency of raising animals for food (you can feed more people with the grain that is used for raising animals). The negative impact that animal products have on human health and the environment are also a big part of it,” said Godard.

    More recently, FNB Niagara has been in contact with the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty (O.C.A.P.) and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (C.U.P.E.) in regards to the possibility of organizing an event that will allow them to serve more people than they are used to catering to. FNB Niagara is also working with the Toronto and London sectors to assist in providing food and volunteers for the occupation of Bay St. in Toronto in solidarity with the Occupy Wall Street movement.

    Aside from the larger societal accomplishments, being involved with such a charitable organization provides one with personal gratification as well, as relationships are formed and people are drawn together.

    “On a personal level, it means a great deal. I have met and connected with so many wonderful people while sharing much needed meals with some of the less fortunate members of our community,” Godard said.

    Through the aims of FNB, one can see that as a whole, the public needs to focus resources on solving problems like hunger, homelessness and poverty while seeking an end to war. The volunteer angle suggests that society is more than capable of coming together out of their own freewill to make positive changes in our communities.

    “I have found, along with many others, that FNB is a great outlet for the frustration that stems from living in a society that values building weapons over feeding, sheltering and educating its own people,” Godard said.

    To learn more about FNB, upcoming events and how you can get involved by volunteering your time, please check out foodnotbombs-niagara.weebly.com. Even the slightest contribution makes a great difference

    Amanda Mihaljev/Brock University

     

  • Carbon scrubbers to clean up emissions

    Carbon scrubbers to clean up emissions

    Research into methods of reducing carbon emissions is a continually advancing field, and a team of researchers developed an improved way to remove emissions directly from sources like smokestacks.

    The team recently had an article published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society detailing their findings, which focused on using substances based on a material called polyethylenimine to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from sources. According to the article, these substances whoed some of the greatest results in removing CO2 from the air when compared to alternatives. The substances also proved capable of effectively capturing the CO2, and could either be re-used or isolated, so it wouldn’t contribute to global climate change.

    The team, which consisted of researchers from the Loker Hydrocarbon Research Institute and Department of Chemistry from the University of Southern California, explained in their article that the materials used are uniquely effective largely due to their low cost and reusability. The material is relatively inexpensive when compared to other options, and can be reused numerous times without losing its ability to capture CO2.

    The article also explains that materials manage to remain effective in real-world conditions. This means that the materials were observed as being able to accommodate for exceptionally humid, moist or dry environments, something that is important when considering practical application of scientific research such as this.

    Other options for CO2 reduction are more expensive, less effective or durable and use large amounts of energy than the processes being researched by this team. If the researchers are able to effectively implement these polyethylene materials, they will have created a valuable resource that is much easier to use. Considering the cost-effectiveness and stability of the polyethylenimine materials, the application of them will make sustainability much more accessible, and therefore potentially more widespread.

    The material’s main target for carbon reduction is smokestacks; however the research could also potentially be used to reduce CO2 emissions from car exhaust, submarines, and even the open atmosphere itself. Cleaning of the upper atmosphere would hopefully reduce the greenhouse effects of the CO2.

    CO2 is one of the greatest threats to the environment in recent years. The amount of CO2 emissions produced by humans is of great concern to the population due to its effects on climate change,rising sea levels and air pollution. Research on ways to reduce emissions of CO2 is an area of international concern.

    According to the World Health Organization, high levels of greenhouse gases — of which CO2 is a prominent part of — affect necessities to health like clean air and water and increase the incidence rates of climate-sensitive diseases.

    Up until now, finding ways to reduce these emissions has proven challenging and unpromising. However, if this research team is successful in implementing polyethylenimine as a way to reduce emissions, the levels of CO2 in the atmosphere may be significantly reduced. This would help reduce concerns of climate change, and result in cleaner air in an effective and affordable way.

     

     

  • Top 10 brain foods !

    Top 10 brain foods !

    Want to keep your mind sharp and nourished? Here are 10 highly effective brain foods that improve memory, mood, concentration, and overall clarity.

    Eat up.

    1. Blueberries—Blueberries serve a wide range of functions for improving mental function. Most notably, regular blueberry consumption has been shown to improve memory function. Furthermore, blueberries are rich in antioxidants, helping to prevent free radical damage. Still not convinced? Research has found that blueberries can also reverse age related declines in motor function, balance, and coordination.

    2. Salmon—Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, salmon helps your brain develop tissue for increasing your brain power. Furthermore, salmon also plays a key role in fighting Alzheimer’s and other age-related cognitive disorders.

     3. Flax seeds—Flax seeds are crammed with ALA- a healthy fat that aids the cerebral cortex in functioning better. This is the portion of the brain responsible for processing sensory information. Keeping it sharp is vital.

    4. Coffee—Regular coffee drinking has been shown to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and other mental disorders. That’s because caffeine is good for the brain (in moderation), and it contains antioxidants. The important thing to note is you shouldn’t add in all the other junk to your coffee (the ridiculous Starbucks drinks crammed with sweeteners and fatty products).

    5. Mixed nuts—Peanuts, walnuts, pecans, and other nuts contain properties that help with everything from fighting insomnia to promoting mental clarity and strong memory. Walnuts are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids while almonds contain natural mood-enhancing neurotransmitters.

    6. Avocados—Don’t let the avocado’s fat content fool you. It’s a healthy fat that promotes blood flow, keeping your mind functioning at its peak. That’s not all: Avocados have also been shown to reduce blood pressure.

    7. Eggs—Egg yolks are rich in choline, an essential nutrient to improving memory function.

    8. Whole grains—From oatmeal to whole grain bread, whole grains are excellent brain foods as they improve circulation and contain essential fibers, vitamins, and even some Omega-3. Just make your sandwiches from whole grain breads to enjoy the benefits.

    9. Chocolate—For me, this is the yummiest brain food of all. Dark chocolate is antioxidant-rich, and it also improves focus and concentration. Milk chocolate, on the other hand, improves memory and reaction time.

    10. Broccoli—Broccoli has been shown to improve memory function as well as slow the aging process. This means a broccoli-rich diet will keep you young and sharp.

  • The Importance of Exercise

    The Importance of Exercise

    We’ve all been there – you wake up to start your day and immediately start thinking of how you can’t wait to get home to go back to bed later. You feel run down and yawn throughout your classes. Your head feels foggy and you have trouble concentrating. All of these signs point to a lack of energy and balance, which can be easily rectified by exercising regularly.

    Maybe you have a full schedule of classes, you work a part-time job and still need time to study on top of that. Don’t worry – you can fit in exercise each day in simple ways! Try walking to and from school each day, if possible. Speed up your normal walking pace slightly to get your heart pumping. You can also jog/run home from school each day to increase the cardiovascular benefits.

    If you have a little more time on your hands, even on weekends, try going to a community centre in your area. Community centres often have exercise equipment you can use for a much lower fee than a regular gym would. Treadmills and elliptical machines are great ways to get in a cardio workout without having to worry about poor weather.

    Many of us feel uncomfortable working out in front of others, so you can even do exercises at home while watching TV or a movie. Try some simple yoga moves, sit-ups or even jumping jacks. There are many great (and free!) websites that offer tips on different at-home workouts you can do that do not require any equipment. You may also want to purchase a workout DVD that combines your interests with exercise. For example, there are DVD’s that involve dance, ballet and even Bollywood moves.

    Another easy option is to play Wii or X-Box Kinect. Many of us own these systems already, so playing a game that involves movement instead of sitting will add up. Many Wii systems come with sports games inside the box, so there is no extra expense incurred. These games will even track your progress and tell you your “exercise age”, which are great motivators.

    Exercising regularly will ensure that you have energy when you need it most. Exercise has also been proven to lower stress and help with anxiety and depression. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins which essentially help you to feel better and calmer. You should aim to exercise for 30 consecutive minutes each day for the maximum benefits. It is also important to not exercise just before you go to bed, as the increased endorphins can prevent you from falling asleep right away. However, exercising regularly does help you to get a deeper sleep more often.

    So make time for yourself each day and get in some exercise. Motivating yourself can be difficult sometimes, so be sure to tell a friend or family member about your goals and they can help to get you moving. Remember – short term pain, long term gain!

  • Atmospheric Science

    Atmospheric Science

    Environment Canada is a key Canadian focal point for the advancement of atmospheric science, providing the research needed to improve Canada’s air quality, respond to climate change and increase the accuracy of weather forecasts.

    Human activities are changing the atmosphere, and the work of Environment Canada’s atmospheric scientists is focused on observing, understanding and predicting these changes. These scientists are tracking changes in the atmosphere through monitoring networks, analyzing and maintaining long-term data records, studying atmospheric processes, and developing complex computer models. This modeling work enables Environment Canada scientists to predict future change, from tomorrow’s weather and air quality, to climate conditions over the coming decades.

    Environment Canada atmospheric research provides valuable advice and guidance to decision-makers working to reduce air pollution, protect the ozone layer, respond to climate change and safeguard Canadians from hazardous weather. Atmospheric research also provides the scientific basis for many services to Canadians, including the air quality, health index and UV index  and increasingly accurate forecasts of severe weather.

    Working in collaboration with Canadian universities and the international science community, Environment Canada’s scientists generate new knowledge about the atmosphere. Departmental scientists also take an active role in development of national and global scientific assessments that provide authoritative compilations of the current state of the science on atmospheric issues.

  • Why should I volunteer?

    Why should I volunteer?

    People volunteer their time for lots of different reasons. You can pick your own reasons, but here’s our top ten:

    1. You have to!

      You have to complete 40 hours of volunteer work to graduate high school in Ontario

    2. Forty hours! Sound like a long time? Over four years, you probably spend way more time than that watching TV, standing in front of the mirror or riding the bus.So, the fact you have to do 40 hours of volunteer work to graduate high school in Ontario really shouldn’t be such a big deal.Your school calls this requirement ‘community involvement’. The Ministry of Education has some rules about it, like:
      • You can’t be paid for your volunteer work.
      • You can’t skip class! You can volunteer during the summer, after school, weekends or even on your lunch or during your spare.
      • Chores you already do around the house don’t count. Unfortunately, cleaning your room isn’t volunteer work!

      Your school board has a list of pre-approved volunteer activities. Ask a teacher or guidance counsellor for the list and for the full set of rules. If what you want to do isn’t on the list, make sure you talk to your teacher first to see if your school principal will agree to it.

    3. Pump up your resume.

      When you’re looking for a job, volunteer experience helps. It shows you’re responsible and gives you references who can prove you do good work.

    4. It feels good to help people.

      Try helping somebody and see how you feel – you just might become addicted!

    5. Make the world a better place.

      Making the world better, safer, happier, healthier or cleaner starts with small projects so get in there and get your hands dirty.

    6. Learn something about yourself.

      You might be a great leader or more outgoing than you ever thought – only one way to find out – try new things!

    7. Figure out what kind of career you want.

      Thinking about becoming a doctor? Volunteer at a hospital!

    8. Activism is hot!

      If you’re passionate about causes like the environment or human rights, there are lots of charities and groups you can join.

    9. Meet new people.

      Your best friends might be the coolest, but volunteering is a chance to meet a whole new circle of people.

    10. It’s fun.

      If you volunteer doing something you love and are interested in, the work you do won’t feel like work at all.

    11. Prove adults wrong.

      If you think adults don’t give teens any respect, here’s your chance to prove you care about your community and are ready to lend a hand.