The GenWell Project Awarded $761,000 Grant By Canadian Institute for Health Research

Funds will allow The GenWell Project expand research and programming aimed at improving Canadian's social health and wellbeing

TORONTO, Aug. 18, 2022 /CNW/ - The GenWell Project, in partnership with Simon Fraser University, the Institute for Social Connection, the Public Health Agency of Canada and several researchers from Canadian Universities, has received $761,000 in Federal funding from the Canadian Institute for Health Research to research and produce Canadian Social Connection Guidelines that will help Canadians build a better understanding of the impact of social ties to their health and wellbeing and its impact on building a healthier society. The project will allow our team to synthesize existing research on social connection, continue additional years of survey data collection about loneliness and social health as part of the Canadian Social Connection Survey, and convene experts from across Canada and around the world in the area of social health to develop Canadian Social Connection Guidelines, similar to those that have provided Canadians with physical and nutrition guidelines more than fifty years.

The project is led by Dr. Kiffer G. Card, an Assistant Professor with the Faculty of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University and Director of Research for the GenWell Project. "Canada has a strong history in leading the development of public health guidelines," says Card. "In 1942, Canada's first Food Guide provided public health guidance for wartime food rationing. Twenty years later, the Fitness and Amateur Sport Act launched a physical activity revolution that eventually resulted in the Physical Activity Guide to Healthy Active Living. Regardless of the challenge, evidence-based guidelines have provided simple, easy-to-learn strategies for healthy living."

Last year, The GenWell Project, in partnership with Card, launched the inaugural Canadian Social Connection Survey - a nationwide survey about human connectedness in the time of COVID-19 and the post-pandemic period. The survey of nearly 3,800 Canadians from across the country examined the patterns of social connection among participants and highlighted the significant degree of social disruption as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic. The results showed approximately 50% of Canadians, across all demographics, experienced a clinically significant level of loneliness, that roughly 6% of Canadians were chronically lonely and highlighted that social isolation, disconnection and loneliness can impact us all at different stages of life and in various situations. Previous studies have demonstrated the danger of these high levels of social disconnection. In fact, social disconnection and loneliness are associated with an up to 50% increase in risk for premature death – which is higher than the impact of obesity, sedentary living, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and air pollution.

According to Pete Bombaci, Executive Director for The GenWell Project, "Most people don't recognize the negative implications of social isolation, disconnection and loneliness, or the critical role that social connection plays in their health and wellbeing. As such, social connection guidelines can help Canadians be more conscious and intentional about their social health, for their own benefit or in recognizing the role that each of us can play in the lives of other Canadians." 

*** Pete Bombaci and Dr. Kiffer Card are available for interviews to discuss the development of Canadian Social Connection Guidelines and the importance of social interaction ***

In addition to allowing The GenWell Project to work on the Canadian Social Connection Guidelines and conduct the Canadian Social Connection Survey, the funds will also help the organization expand current initiatives, such as the upcoming GenWell Weekend and add new ones, including the upcoming first annual Canadian Human Connection Conference, being held this October.

For more information, or to connect with us online, please visit https://genwellproject.org/.

About The GenWell Project

Established in 2016, The GenWell Project, a registered Canadian NFP, is a grassroots Global Human Connection Movement whose mission is to make the world a happier and healthier place by educating, empowering, and catalyzing people about the importance of face-to-face social connection as a proactive step we can all take for our health, happiness, and longevity, as well as for those around us. We share information, research, tips, tools and motivation through our social channels and our website to help people create healthy connection habits starting today. We activate around two weekends a year, in the spring and fall, when we want to be the catalyst that gives people permission to reach out and get connected face-to-face with family, friends, neighbours, classmates and colleagues. www.GenWellProject.org

SOURCE The GenWell Project

Canada's 2030 climate targets achievable if Canadians move to more plant-based diet

New World Animal Protection report produced by Navius Research studies the impact of animal agriculture and meat consumption on Canada's 2030 and 2050 climate targets. 

TORONTO, Aug. 18, 2022 /CNW/ - As concerns grow about Canada's ability to hit its 2030 climate targets, World Animal Protection, in conjunction with Navius Research, is releasing a new report that shows if Canadians move from a high-meat consumption diet to a low-meat consumption one (a 50% reduction by 2030 and an 80% reduction by 2050), the impacts on greenhouse gas emissions would be significant enough to put Canada back on track to meet its 2030 and 2050 climate targets. 

"The findings of this report should be a wakeup call for governments and Canadians alike," said Lynn Kavanagh, Farming Campaign Manager with World Animal Protection Canada. "Our diets are largely something that we can control and by moving to a more sustainable plant-based diet, we can all do our part in achieving a net zero society."

The Government of Canada has an important role to play in supporting Canadians to adopt more planet-friendly diets. Campaigns to promote the Canada Food Guide, for example, which is largely plant-based, and acknowledging animal agriculture as a major source of GHG emissions, are easy actions the government can take to start the transition towards sustainable eating. 

This research is the first of its kind as it quantifies the true emissions from Canada's animal agriculture sector. Canada's emissions reporting accounts for emissions from feed production, fertilizer production and fertilizer use across various sectors, while these emissions should be attributed to animal agriculture to understand the true impact of this sector. 

The report has also found if Canada's future animal consumption is lower, it will cost 11% less for the economy to comply with the 2030 emissions target compared to a future in which animal consumption remains at current levels. For the agriculture sector, that means $6.3 billion lower in 2030 and $12.5 billion lower in 2050.

World Animal Protection's Animal-sourced food consumption and Canada's emissions targets report uses a customized version of Navius Research's existing energy economy model, gTech, which simulates the effects of energy and climate policy on technology adoption, energy use, GHG emissions and the economy. The model was used to explore the impacts of shifting consumer food consumption patterns and their impacts on Canada's climate goals.

The impacts of meat consumption and animal agriculture on our climate are why World Animal Protection launched its Plan Meatless Better campaign this summer.

Canadians can go to planbetter.ca to answer a few questions about their eating habits and receive a personalized and customized plan and set of recipes tailored to their preferences.

Experts predict that without urgent and drastic shifts in global meat consumption, agriculture will consume the entire world's carbon budget necessary for keeping global temperature rises under 2°C by 2050.

SOURCE World Animal Protection

Statement from College of Nurses Council President Naomi Thick

TORONTO, Aug. 18, 2022 /CNW/ - At the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO), our purpose is clear: to protect the public through the promotion of safe nursing practice. This includes registering nurses with the knowledge, skill and judgment to practice safely in Ontario, whether educated in Canada or internationally.

Today we are pleased to respond to the Minister of Health, the Hon. Sylvia Jones, and propose new initiatives and regulatory changes which will add to our ongoing efforts to increase the number of new nurses available to the health care system.

CNO analysis of applicant data identifies how we can best focus our efforts to register more nurses. We have the potential to register 5,970 net new internationally educated nurse (IEN) applicants over the weeks and months to come. These applicants reside in Ontario and are actively working toward registration and therefore are potentially available to the health care system.

Our public protection mandate is as important as ever and we know by building on existing initiatives, leveraging Ministry leadership and actively collaborating with partners in government, academia and the health care system, we can register more nurses to practice safely in Ontario.

2022 is already a year of milestones for CNO, including registering a record number of IENs, and we look forward to building on this success.

CNO remains committed to partnering and collaborating with the Ministry of Health, our partners in the health care system and others to address this shared challenge.

SOURCE College of Nurses of Ontario

Rapid Weight Loss During U.S. Heat Wave Poses Increased Health Risks, Dietitian Says. How to Stay Safe?

Photo credit: Pexels

Despite many people searching for suggestions regarding summertime weight loss, record-high temperatures in the U.S. suppose an increased health risk for intense fasting and exercise routines. A bariatric dietitian explains that a balanced diet and hydration are key during a heat wave.

August 16, 2022. Currently, 36.3 million people within the United States, or 11% of the population, reside in regions where severe heat levels are anticipated. Excessive heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the country, as high humidity in many areas makes it harder for the body to cool down, leading to dehydration, nausea, dizziness, and more.

Although there is plenty of advice on how to quickly slim down for the summer and attain a “beach body,” Dr. Karolina Bauraitė, a bariatric dietician at Nordbariatric Clinic — a leading international bariatric center for medical tourists in Kaunas, Lithuania — warns that a quick weight reduction might be dangerous in the current climate. She notes that staying hydrated and sticking to a balanced eating regimen is key for safely surviving the high temperatures.

Rapid summertime weight loss poses health risks

The concern with fast weight loss is that it usually takes extraordinary efforts in diet and exercise — efforts that could be unhealthy and are difficult to maintain as permanent lifestyle changes. A multitude of negative effects — including headaches, nausea, and dizziness — can arise from losing weight too rapidly, especially when starvation techniques are used.

“One of the main risks is dehydration. Ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial. Sweating becomes more intense in the summer, which is one of the ways in which the body loses fluids,” explained Dr. Bauraitė. “Failure to meet nutrient requirements can also expose the patient to malnutrition or the risk of it. At any time of the year, it is important to choose a balanced diet that supports health. It is also advisable to enrich the diet with specific vitamins and minerals when needed, such as after gastric reduction surgery.”

In general, rapid weight loss has also been linked to higher rates of gallstone formation. As the liver produces more cholesterol for the bile during fasts or longer starvation periods, it interferes with the gallbladder’s ability to empty properly.

Maintaining a health-friendly routine is key

Since rapid weight loss poses possible health risks, Dr. Bauraitė suggests having a  nutritious diet instead.

“Maintaining a food regimen is crucial. It is advised to have well-balanced main meals  and 1-2 pre-planned snacks. Snacking haphazardly ought to be avoided, as snacks frequently mask the feeling of thirst. Therefore, getting enough liquids will not only stop dehydration but also stop weight growth.”

While diets should remain tailored to the individual patient’s needs and overseen by a professional, it is generally recommended to enrich the diet with vegetables and to maintain as much food variety as possible. 

“It is advised to replace sugar-laden desserts or soft drinks with fresh berries and fruit. Sweet and fatty desserts can cause unpleasant symptoms in certain cases, so it is recommended to make them at home and include fresh berries or fruit as an alternative. It is also important to consume sufficient fluids, making sure to avoid alcoholic beverages,” concluded the expert.

-END-

ABOUT NORDBARIATRIC

Nordbariatric is a private bariatric surgery clinic in Kaunas, Lithuania, part of Nordclinic, offering high-quality services and focusing on foreign patients. It is equipped with modern diagnostic and surgical facilities. Medical professionals at the clinic speak fluent English and show personal attention to every patient. www.nordbariatric.com/en/

Abbott's FreeStyle Libre® 2 System Now Reimbursed in Quebec

• Quebec joins Ontario and Prince Edward Island in offering access to both FreeStyle Libre and FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring technology
• The addition of the FreeStyle Libre 2 system enables access for Quebec residents aged four and over who manage their diabetes (type 1 or type 2) with multiple daily injections of insulin
• With a simple scan, the innovative FreeStyle Libre 2 delivers accurate, real-time glucose readings and alerts users when their glucose is too high or too low, without the need for routine finger pricks∞

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Aug. 16, 2022 /CNW/ - Abbott today announced that its FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring system^* is now reimbursed under the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Quebec (RAMQ) for Quebec residents aged four and over who manage their diabetes (type 1 or type 2) with multiple daily injections of insulin^~. Quebec was one of the first Canadian provinces to reimburse flash glucose monitoring technology and with the addition of FreeStyle Libre 2, families with children who are living with diabetes will have the opportunity to benefit from this important diabetes management tool.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 system represents a significant advancement in diabetes management for Canadians. The sensor, which is the size of a Canadian Toonie, is worn on the back of the upper arm for up to 14 days. It measures glucose every minute to help people living with diabetes and their healthcare team make informed treatment decisions. With a one-second scan of a smartphone using the FreeStyle Libre 2 app,^α users can see their glucose reading, trend arrow and eight-hour history. Using Bluetooth technology, the FreeStyle Libre 2 system can automatically^π alert users when their glucose is too high or low without needing to scan the sensor. Users can also share data with their family members via the LibreLinkUp mobile app.^ύ

"The best healthcare solution is the one that helps the most people, which is why we designed our FreeStyle Libre portfolio with access and affordability in mind from the very beginning," said Philippe Busque, general manager of Abbott's diabetes care business in Canada. "Reimbursement of the FreeStyle Libre 2 system in Quebec is an important step toward helping more people with diabetes get access and we continue to work with all provincial governments to improve access for all people with diabetes across Canada."

Abbott's FreeStyle Libre 2 system has outstanding accuracy¹. No routine confirmatory finger pricks are required for treatment decisions, even when glucose is low, falling or rapidly changing. It has impactful real-world² and clinical research,^3,4,5,6 showing how the FreeStyle Libre system is associated with better glucose control⁷, decreased time in hypoglycemia^3,4,5,6 and hyperglycemia^3,4 more time in optimal glucose range,⁷ and improved HbA1C.² When compared to traditional blood glucose monitoring, using a flash glucose monitor can improve the ability of an individual living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes to monitor and manage their chronic condition along with their healthcare team, which is key to better diabetes management and health outcomes.

"This is great news for those living with diabetes in Quebec," said Sylvie Lauzon, president and CEO, Diabète Québec. "Providing access to flash glucose monitoring can help improve a person living with diabetes' ability to self-monitor, which is key to better diabetes management, and which can really help improve the quality of life of people living with diabetes."

As the #1 sensor-based glucose monitoring system used worldwide,^∂ Abbott's FreeStyle Libre portfolio has now changed the lives of more than 4 million people across more than 60 countries.^≠

Quebec announced public reimbursement of the FreeStyle Libre for the province in 2019. Public coverage is currently available for the FreeStyle Libre system in Ontario,^£ Quebec,^¤ Prince Edward Island^µ and Yukon^# for those that meet the criteria. Public coverage is currently available for the FreeStyle Libre 2 system in Ontario,^££ Yukon,^Ø Manitoba,^ΩSaskatchewan,^± Prince Edward Island^µ and now Quebec^¤¤, for those that meet the criteria. The FreeStyle Libre and FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring systems are reimbursed by most private payers in Canada,^√ and are available to be electronically adjudicated at pharmacies with a prescription.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring system is indicated for measuring interstitial fluid glucose levels in people aged 4 years and older with diabetes mellitus. Always read and follow the label/insert.

To learn more about the FreeStyle Libre 2 flash glucose monitoring system, visit www.MyFreeStyle.ca.  

About Abbott 

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 113,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.

Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/abbott-/, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott and on Twitter @AbbottNews

ADC-59271v1.0 August 2022

DISCLAIMERS

REFERENCES

SOURCE Abbott Diabetes Canada

Zen Rohatsu Invites Readers to Follow Buddha’s Path to Enlightenment

Philadelphia, PA, August 16, 2022 — Could an ancient practice hold the key to dealing with today’s stressors? Zen meditation practitioner Nora D’Ecclesis opens her new book, Zen Rohatsu, with a guided visualization that places readers at the time of the Buddha, under the sacred fig tree, as he sought to obtain enlightenment.

“Buddha was a man who found his enlightenment and set his path, avoiding suffering by controlling his thoughts and desires,” wrote D’Ecclesis. “He was not and is not considered a deity.” 

And with this historical perspective into how the concept of Buddhist enlightenment emerged, D’Ecclesis sets the stage for Zen Rohatsu, which provides thoroughly researched insights into the origins of meditation, its rituals and the ways in which living mindfully can be transformative. Included are simple meditation techniques, such as postures, breathing exercises and the use of mala beads. 

Written for anyone wanting to cultivate a deeper sense of mindfulness and spirituality — from beginners to advanced meditation practitioners — Zen Rohatsu guides readers down the proverbial path of enlightenment.  

“Zen Rohatsu is a microcosm of Zen meditation which best explains why we meditate and why most should consider this spiritual practice,” D’Ecclesis said. “I sat to outline a story about my spiritual practice, which I wrote from the memory of my own experiences as a lay meditator. The result is this book.” 

The book explains that Rohatsu is a spiritual practice of meditative zazen that occurs on the eighth day of the twelfth month on the Gregorian calendar. The meditation sessions, which focus on Zazen Meditation rather than scriptures or rituals, are celebrated for seven days in advance of December 8 by Zen practitioners all over the world. Zen Rohatsu will help readers understand this type of meditation and how it might help them.

D’Ecclesis also added: “Zazen, a Japanese style dating back to the Buddha, is a meditation that keeps us in the present with focus, equanimity and stress management by clearing our thoughts from the various anxieties that permeate them. We turn off the chatter in our own heads and establish a place of compassion. We all experience interoceptive responses to the stressors and suffering and even the great joys in life, as all sentient beings do, so the balance of meditation and concept of equanimity are a welcome alternative.” 

Nora D’Ecclesis is an American bestselling nonfiction author and Haiku poet. Her international No.1 bestseller The Retro Budget Prescription held the top spot in Kindle book downloads for the business/self-help category for over a year. She is a graduate of Kean University of New Jersey with post graduate degrees in administration and education. Her other published nonfiction includes Amazon No. 1 bestseller Haiku: Natures Meditation and paperbacks/eBooks on such topics as time management, guided visualizations, gratitude/equanimity, journaling and Zen meditation.

For more information about the author, visit https://noradecclesis.com/, or follow her on Twitter at @DECCLESIS or on Facebook at NoraDEcclesis.

Zen Rohatsu

Publisher: Renaissance Presentations, LLC

ISBN-10: ‎1733020136 

ISBN-13: ‎978-1733020138 ‎ 

Available from Amazon.com

###

Finding Meaning in Life’s Messes: Easier Shows Readers How

Houston, TX, August 16, 2022 ― When it seems as if the path forward looks like a brick wall, it’s time to zoom out, and watch other possibilities come into view, advises author and business coach Chris Westfall. His new book, Easier: 60 Ways to Make Your Work Life Work for You, isn’t about taking the easy way out of difficult circumstances. It’s about overcoming tunnel vision, seeing things in a new way and showing up differently when challenges arise.

“The book Easier is actually filled with difficulty, just like life is,” Westfall said in a recent interview. “But in the midst of difficult circumstances, difficult relationships, misunderstandings, communication challenges … a new path emerges — a new possibility emerges.”
 

Accessing new ideas and possibilities in Westfall’s narrative is simpler than readers will find in other self-help books because Easier is told as a relatable, straightforward conversation between a Client and a Coach. The Client is ambushed at work. He’s fired on a Monday morning. He believes his wife will leave him as a result. He’s afraid that he can’t pay his bills. 

From this life-after-career-death story, new discoveries bloom, revealing 60 insights into resilience, resourcefulness, self-leadership and more. With each new concept, readers can find their perspectives shifting from “How will I ever get through this?” to “What can I gain from this?” 

Westfall’s insights can be applied not just to the workplace, but to all aspects of life.

“The obligations are the obligations, the duties are the duties, the deadlines are the deadlines, the sharks are still the sharks,” Westfall said. “But when you show up differently, the conversation can change.” 

Ultimately, Easier takes an even-handed look at how things work — using neuroscience, history and powerful coaching examples to impart fresh perspectives that are vital for companies striving to create inclusive cultures, for organizations seeking to expand innovation and for individuals who want to deepen their relationships through understanding.

“When it looks like life and career and communication and everything else is breaking down, it’s time to break free,” Westfall said. “It’s time to access a kind of personal freedom that allows you to make different choices. To see things in a different way. People around the world are looking for more personal freedom, more encouragement and more possibility.”

About the Author

Chris Westfall is one of the most sought-after business coaches and keynote speakers in the world. He helped launch over five dozen businesses and has appeared on ABC NEWS, NBC TV and CNN. A regular contributor to Forbes, he has worked with thousands of leaders at Fortune 500 companies, nonprofit organizations and high-tech startups. A coach to entrepreneurs and executives around the globe, his clients have appeared on Shark Tank, Dragon’s Den and Shark Tank-Australia. He regularly consults with top-tier universities and is the author of three other books, including Leadership Language.

For more information, please visit http://westfallonline.com or http://easier-book.com. You can also follow Westfall on Twitter (westfallonline), Instagram (westfallonline) or Facebook (easierbook).  

Easier: 60 Ways to Make Your Work Life Work for You 

Publisher: Wiley

ISBN-10: ‎ 1119834570 

ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1119834571 

Available from Amazon.com

###

8 Fantastic Wellness Holidays for Autumn 2022

With the end of Summer fast approaching and many travellers looking ahead to booking Autumn wellness retreats to boost their fitness, detox or simply relax this Autumn, Health and Fitness Travel, the wellness holiday specialists is sharing 8 of the best wellness holidays to book for Autumn 2022 along with some fantastic offers to help wellness holidaymakers access these luxurious wellness retreats for less. 

From yoga and spa holidays in Portugal to detox retreats in Thailand, these retreats offer something for every type of wellness traveller with some even including great money-saving offers for the Autumn months including up to 30% off room rates. With the summer holidays out of the way, there isn’t a better time to invest in your whole-body wellbeing than the Autumn on one of these luxurious wellness retreats: 

Sense of Rejuvenation at Palacio Estoril Golf and Spa Hotel, Portugal 

Deal: Stay 7 nights, pay 6 in October 2022

Enjoy the feeling of being completely relaxed and rejuvenated at the stunning Palacio Estoril which boasts sublime views across the Bay of Cascais. Relax and indulge in a selection of luxurious and revitalising spa treatments for head-to-toe pampering and rejuvenation at the award-winning Banyan Tree spa. From traditional Indian head massages to cleansing facials, every procedure is destined to nourish your body, mind, and soul on this refreshing wellness break. Combine your spa regime with daily fitness classes as well as complimentary gym and dynamic pool access to set the tone for a fit and healthy week, leaving you feeling truly revitalised from the inside out - you'll return glowing!

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Palacio Estoril Golf and Spa Hotel from £1,655pp sharing or £2,250pp on a single room basis. Price includes breakfast, a wellness programme & return transfers. Flights available on request. 

Menopause at Preidlhof, Italy

The Menopause retreat at Preidlhof allows time for reflection, reconciliation, and self-discovery. Key to the retreat are ancient and contemporary healing treatments, led by expert therapists, that increase energy-levels, improve lifestyle, and help treat all the new physical, emotional, and psychological challenges presenting. Treatments are supported by means of real-time biofeedback and data analysis. You can also assess your biological age, and quantitatively measure, from beginning to end, the benefits of health and lifestyle changes during the retreat. Engaging classes such as dance, voice training and forest bathing further amplify the pleasure of being alive and being a woman. You’ll connect with nature in the beautiful Italian countryside and leave the retreat empowered and invigorated.

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 6 nights at Preidlhof from £3,520pp sharing or £3,545pp on a single room basis. Price includes half board, a wellness programme & return transfers. Flights available on request. 

Fitness at Six Senses Ibiza, Ibiza 

Engage your mind and body by focusing on movement, low and high intensity training as well as recovery treatments, meditation, and sleep. This can be the perfect opportunity to kickstart or continue your fitness journey. Six Senses take a personalised approach towards full body wellness so you can really gauge how to make the most of your wellness break this Autumn. Help yourself improve muscle tone and strength, flexibility, agility and help reduce the risk of weight gain and chronic disease. Being an extremely tailored experience, this healthy holiday can be done at your own pace and at your own ability level, so you can feel fully confident and happy with your own progress and achievements. 

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 5 nights at Six Senses Ibiza from £2,290pp sharing or £3,645pp on a single room basis. Price includes breakfast, return private transfers and a fitness programme. Flights available on request. 

Pilates at Casale Panayiotis, Cyprus

 Deal: Stay 7 nights, pay 6 for arrivals on any day of the week 

Immerse yourself in relaxation and exquisite Cypriot backdrops on this holistic Pilates holiday nestled in the ancient spa village of Kalopanayiotis at Casale Panayiotis this Autumn. With calming treatments at the Myrianthousea Spa, mindfulness meditations with expert instructors and private Pilates sessions there’s no time for stress during your stay. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you’ll focus on improving your flexibility, posture, and coordination, whilst also enjoying the traditional delicacies and incredible mountain trails that surround Casale Panayiotis.  The perfect opportunity to kickstart your wellness journey, this healthy retreat gives you the chance to rediscover the balance between your mind, body, and soul. 

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Casale Panayiotis from £1,275pp sharing or £1,535pp on a single room basis. Price includes breakfast, return private transfers and a Pilates programme. Flights available on request. 

Ayurveda Retreat at Vilnius Grand Resort, Lithuania 

Escape into a world of ancient therapy with this Ayurveda focused getaway, perfect for strengthening your body’s natural defences ahead of winter. This traditional Eastern medicinal system champions a balanced body, mind, and spirit of which you will achieve following a health assessment and bespoke retreat plan detailing Ayurvedic body treatments, herbal steam treatments, and multiple pranayama sessions to enrich your body and mind. Enjoy the extensive spa and fitness facilities available at Vilnius Grand Resort as part of your stay and return feeling grounded, strengthened, and renewed ahead of the winter months.  

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 5 nights at Vilnius Grand Resort from £1,450pp sharing or £1,745pp on a single room basis. Price includes half board, return private transfers and a wellness programme. Flights available on request.  

Retreat Away Yoga Retreat with Matt Huy and Saz Newman at Longevity Cegonha Country Club, Portugal 

Immerse yourself on this special yoga and wellness retreat with Matt Huy and Saz Newman, in the beautiful Algarve region of Portugal between the 12^th and 19^th October. This fantastic duo with their extensive experience in yoga, giving you their years of expertise, guiding you in a variety of yoga styles and coaching from Matt’s further knowledge. With delicious healthy food and group classes with both Matt and Saz, you can soak up the stunning surrounding area from Longevity Cegonha’s yoga studio and explore the Algarve on a SUP excursion with your fellow yogis. Designed for all skill levels, soak up mindful enthusiasm and valuable knowledge on this peaceful and explorative yoga experience.  

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at Longevity Cegonha Country Club from £1,485pp sharing or £1,630pp on a single room basis. Price includes half board and the retreat programme. Private return transfers and flights available on request. 

Retreat Inclusive at TIA Wellness Resort, Vietnam 

Deal: Get 30% off room rates on Wellness Inclusive & Retreat Inclusive Stays until 31^st October 2022 

Enhance your state of mind, inner balance, and creative expression with TIA’s bespoke Wellness Inclusive retreat this Autumn. Located on an exquisite beachfront in Da Nang, the Private Pool Villas have the most picturesque of views. Break free from routine to relax and refocus with spa treatments, creative activities designed to elevate your sense of life purpose. Learn to lead a healthier lifestyle by upgrading your diet, your stress management and mindfulness. Between TIA’s blend of authentic well-being with understated luxury, you will positively return home renewed, having practiced Tai Chi, Yoga and attended a breathwork master class. 

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 7 nights at TIA Wellness Resort from £1,485pp sharing or £2,565pp on a single room basis. Price includes breakfast, return private transfers and a wellness programme. Flights available on request.  

Art of Detox at Chiva Som International Health Resort, Thailand 

Deal: Stay 10 nights and get 14 nights of retreat inclusions for stays until 31 October 2022

Chiva Som are experts in detoxification with a range of medical, holistic, spa and wellness treatments to provide the perfect solution for you. This wellness holiday allows you to decide whether to go through a radical or gentle dietary change and to vary the length according to your needs. You also have the option to incorporate colonic hydrotherapy into the programme to help with the detoxification process. A set of herbal and nutritional supplements will ensure that your detox pathways will work optimally. Your health and wellness advisor will assist you in making the right choices to personalise your health programme and will monitor your progress throughout your stay. 

Health and Fitness Travel (0203 397 8891 healthandfitnesstravel.com) offers 10 nights at Chiva Som International Health Resort from £7,810pp sharing or £9,835pp on a single room basis. Price includes full board, return private transfers and a detox programme. Flights available on request. 

-Ends-  

For advice, guidance and booking visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com or call 0203 397  

8891 

-Ends-  

To see the full range of wellness and active tours available with Health and Fitness Travel please visit: https://www.healthandfitnesstravel.com/autumn-wellness-holidays   

For further information and hi-res imagery please email:  abbey@healthandfitnesstravel.com or call 0203 397 8891  

About Health and Fitness Travel   

Health and Fitness Travel is a global luxury wellness travel company that originated in the UK in 2010 and is committed to providing healthy holidays that enhance and change lives. Created by Paul Joseph as a result of his passion for health and fitness travel and offering bespoke holidays to improve people’s well-being to lead happier and healthier lives.   

Health and Fitness Travel offers clients a tailor-made seamless service with the very best health and fitness holidays, handpicked by its expert team, together with exclusive and added value packages with the best deals. As leading specialists, Health and Fitness Travel has also created their own collection of trademark healthy holidays in various destinations which include Fusion Fitness™, Mindful Triathlon™, BodyBreaks™ and Discover Recover™, offering clients the best value and holiday experience. For more information visit: www.healthandfitnesstravel.com / www.healthandfitnesstravel.com/wellness-holidays  

Follow us on Instagram  
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Bugatti Group and Authentic Brands Group Partner to Introduce Reebok’s First Travel Luggage Collection

Bugatti Group Will Create and Distribute Reebok Travel Luggage, Wheeled Duffle Cases and Travel Accessories in the US and Canada

MONTREAL, Aug. 17, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Bugatti Group, a leading manufacturer and distributor of branded luggage and bags, and Authentic Brands Group (ABG), a global brand development, marketing and entertainment company, announced a long-term partnership to launch Reebok’s first line of travel luggage in the US and Canada.

"Our new partnership with Authentic Brands Group marks an important step in expanding our business as we add the iconic Reebok brand to our premium roster,” said Andrew Hattem, CEO of Bugatti Group. “Our team is extremely motivated by this new project, and we look forward to tapping into our in-house product development and channel expertise to strategically bring this new category for Reebok to the travel market.”

“The continued growth of consumers’ appetite for travel is palpable,” said Jarrod Weber, Group President Lifestyle, Chief Brand Officer at ABG. “Our partnership with Bugatti Group, an innovative industry expert, comes at a pivotal time. We are pleased to work with them on growing Reebok’s lifestyle offerings in this category.”

The product will begin to roll out at key national and specialty retailers in Fall 2022.

About Bugatti Group
Known for its expertise, innovation and the quality of its products, the Bugatti Group is a North American company that designs, manufactures, imports, and sells, handbags, luggage, business bags worldwide. Headquartered in Quebec Canada and with offices in the United States and Asia, The Bugatti Group is also active in international markets with its flagship and global brands, as well as those under license. Learn more at http://www.bugattigrp.com/

About Authentic Brands Group
Authentic Brands Group (ABG) is a brand development, marketing and entertainment company, which owns a portfolio of global media, entertainment and lifestyle brands. Headquartered in New York City, with offices around the world, ABG elevates and builds the long-term value of more than 50 consumer brands and properties by partnering with best-in-class manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers. Its brands have a global retail footprint across the luxury, specialty, department store, mid-tier, mass and e-commerce channels and in more than 6,100 freestanding stores and shop-in-shops around the world.

ABG is committed to transforming brands by delivering compelling product, content, business and immersive experiences. It creates and activates original marketing strategies to drive the success of its brands across all consumer touchpoints, platforms and emerging media. 

ABG’s portfolio of iconic and world-renowned brands generates more than $21 billion in global annual retail sales, and includes Marilyn Monroe®, Elvis Presley®, Muhammad Ali®, Shaquille O'Neal®, David Beckham®, Dr. J®, Greg Norman®, Neil Lane®, Thalia®, Sports Illustrated®, Reebok®, Eddie Bauer®, Spyder®, Volcom®, Airwalk®, Nautica®, Izod®, Forever 21®, Aéropostale®, Juicy Couture®, Vince Camuto®, Lucky Brand®, Nine West®, Jones New York®, Frederick's of Hollywood®, Adrienne Vittadini®, Van Heusen®, Arrow®, Tretorn®, Tapout®, Prince®, Vision Street Wear®, Brooks Brothers®, Barneys New York®, Judith Leiber®, Herve Leger®, Frye®, Hickey Freeman®, Hart Schaffner Marx®, Thomasville®, Drexel® and Henredon®.

BrainHQ and Highmark Wholecare Target Fall Risk Reduction in Pennsylvania's Vulnerable Elderly Population

Computerized brain exercises and related coaching available for eligible Highmark Wholecare members

(San Francisco, August __, 2022) – Posit Science, the maker of BrainHQ evidence-based brain exercise apps, and Highmark Wholecare, formerly Gateway Health, a leading managed care organization dedicated to caring for the total health of its members, today announced a new program to address fall risk and improve balance in Pennsylvania's most vulnerable older adults.

BrainHQ’s brain fitness exercises and services were recently made available to approximately 7,000 eligible Highmark Wholecare dual eligible Medicaid/Medicare members who were identified as a high risk for falls. BrainHQ exercises have been shown in multiple studies to improve mobility and decrease fall risk. By targeting visual processing speed and accuracy, the exercises improve the likelihood the brain will swiftly adjust body movement to prevent falls. Studies have shown large improvements in gait and balance.

There are more than 100 studies of BrainHQ exercises in older adults. Benefits shown in those studies include gains in: standard measures of cognition (attention, speed, memory, executive function, social cognition), standard measures of quality of life (mood, confidence and control, health-related quality of life, health care costs) and real-world activities (gait, balance, driving, everyday cognition, maintaining independence).

This demonstration project supports Highmark Wholecare's commitment to ‘whole care,’ a new type of care that helps people achieve whole life health, not just physical health. 

“We are excited to work with Highmark Wholecare on this demonstration project targeting a traditionally underserved population with new technology shown to reduce fall risk and improve mobility,” said Dr. Henry Mahncke, CEO of Posit Science.

“At Highmark Wholecare, our mission is to care for the whole person and bring services to individuals in the communities in which they live,” said Beth Dimpfl, Manager, Strategy and Execution, Highmark Wholecare. “We continuously seek ways to empower our members by providing tools they can use to reach or maintain their best health and well-being. We are proud to launch this innovative demonstration project with BrainHQ to address fall risk, and to provide eligible members with the many other benefits of BrainHQ.”

BrainHQ is an evidence-based brain fitness program available as Android, iOS and web apps for monitoring and improving brain health and performance, regardless of a person’s age or health condition. BrainHQ is backed by more than 200 peer-reviewed studies and is now offered, without charge, as a benefit by leading national and 5-star Medicare Advantage plans, and by hundreds of clinics, libraries and communities. Consumers can also try BrainHQ for free at http://www.brainhq.com.

Established in 1992, Highmark Wholecare is a leading mission-driven, community-based managed care organization dedicated to caring for the total health of its more than 365,000 members. Through its robust Medicaid and Medicare programs – and in collaboration with a network of 29,000 primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals, community partners and other ancillary providers – Highmark Wholecare coordinates health care that goes beyond doctors and medicine to help members achieve whole