Pages

Friday, November 29, 2024

December Events at Nostalgia Games in Burlington

 

Mark your calendars
‼️
We've got:
Gingerbread House Decorating
🏠
Hot Chocolate Buffets
☕️
Christmas Cookie Decorating
πŸͺ
Christmas Ornament Painting
πŸŽ„
Coffee Flights
✈️
A Christmas Cookie Market
🎁
A Christmas Worship Music Night
🎢
A Knitting Circle Meetup
🧢
And a New Years Celebration
πŸŽ†
on the schedule!


Purchase your tickets for any of the workshops before Dec 1st and receive a FREE hot chocolate with each ticket


πŸ˜‹



Looking forward to December
‼️πŸ€—











Holidays Lights -Active Parents

Wondering where to see the jolliest holiday lights?


We can tell you!


Our map is back for the 7th year and ready to bring some free Christmas cheer your way.









Looking for a delightful winter outing that the whole family will love?






The Botanical Train Display at Burlington’s Royal Botanical Gardens is a must-see seasonal attraction that combines the charm of model trains with breathtaking natural artistry.

Events at the ICCM in Milton. The ambiance here is like no other. Best people EVER!

 

Our wide selection of Senior events and programs bring our community together to celebrate Italian heritage, fostering unity and inclusivity of all cultures in Milton and embrace our cherished connections. 

Join us for an enriching journey of togetherness.

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Controlling Negative Thoughts-Karma Gaia

Mastering the Art of Controlling Negative Thoughts 

 Negative thoughts are a natural part of life, but when left unchecked, they can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. Learning to control these thoughts is essential for fostering a healthy and positive mindset. It doesn’t mean ignoring challenges but rather reframing how you respond to them. 

 The first step in managing negative thoughts is awareness. Pay attention to your inner dialogue and identify patterns that trigger self-doubt, fear, or anxiety. Recognizing these thought patterns allows you to challenge their validity. Ask yourself, Is this thought based on fact, or is it an assumption? Often, our minds amplify fears that lack concrete evidence. 

 Next, practice reframing your thoughts. Instead of thinking, I’ll never succeed at this, shift to, I am learning and growing, and every step brings me closer to success. Positive affirmations can reinforce this mindset, helping to create a mental environment that nurtures resilience. 

 Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, are also effective in grounding yourself when negative thoughts spiral out of control. By focusing on the present moment, you can reduce overthinking and redirect your energy toward constructive actions. 

 Lastly, surround yourself with positive influences—whether it’s supportive friends, uplifting content, or activities that bring you joy. These external factors can help you maintain a more optimistic outlook, even in challenging times. 

 Remember, controlling negative thoughts is a skill that takes time and practice. With consistent effort, you can transform your inner dialogue into a source of strength and empowerment.



Saturday, November 23, 2024

Halton Women's Centre Oakville-WC










Here is the link to check the events being held at the Women's Centre.  

Please ensure you check in every so often as new events are added. 

 These events can also be found on Eventbrite.

There is such a variety to choose from e.g. Narcissistic Relationships, Bereavement Support Group, Family Law Court Support Drop In, Social Events like Coffee and Conversations and Social Nights, Therapy Sessions, Peer Support, Meditation, Healing Through Words; just to name a few.  

These are all offered FREE!!!


https://thewomenscentreofhalton.com/all-events/



Also please remember to take some time to fill in the follow up surveys that are sent to your email about what you thought about the event you attended, suggestions, etc.  

This helps the Centre continue with future events.  

Thanks everyone!


Here is a way for anyone who would like to share their feedback about the Women's Centre of Halton 

Feedback Form: Programming for Women's Centre



https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=rfFFFTHG60uFk3yuHeD_F5bZd8KX7TtNiqrGFiKZcWNUOEJaQVpETEtNOEFKMkVQU0g0VUpRQkVBNi4u&origin=QRCode




Mindfulness-Karma Gaia

 





Feeling Overwhelmed? This Simple Mindfulness Trick Could Save Your Sanity  

Life can feel like a whirlwind, leaving you stressed and scattered. But what if the solution to overwhelming chaos was as simple as a single, intentional breath? Enter the "3-3-3 Mindfulness Method"—a quick, effective trick to help you regain control when life feels unmanageable.

What is the 3-3-3 Mindfulness Method?

This method is about grounding yourself in the present moment by using your senses and simple actions. Here’s how it works:

1. Name 3 things you can see. 

Look around and consciously identify three specific objects. For example: “A blue mug, the green leaves of a plant, and a picture frame on the wall.”

2. Identify 3 sounds you can hear. 

Pause and listen. It might be the hum of a fan, the chirping of birds, or distant traffic.

3. Move 3 parts of your body. 

Roll your shoulders, wiggle your toes, or stretch your neck. These small physical actions help bring you back to your body.

Why Does It Work?

When you're overwhelmed, your mind is likely stuck in overdrive, racing with worries or to-dos. The 3-3-3 method pulls you out of that mental spiral and back into the now. By engaging your senses, it interrupts the stress cycle, giving your brain a moment to reset.

When to Use It

This trick is perfect for:

- Moments of anxiety or panic.

- Midday work stress.

- Before a big meeting or presentation.

- Anytime you feel your thoughts spiraling.

The Beauty of Simplicity

You don’t need fancy apps, quiet meditation spaces, or a yoga mat. The 3-3-3 Mindfulness Method can be practiced anywhere—in a crowded office, a busy street, or even at home amidst chaos.

So next time you’re overwhelmed, remember: stop, look, listen, and move. One breath at a time, you can reclaim your calm.

Monday, November 18, 2024

ArtHouse is like a Village – and it’s not a small village


 My son and I highly recommend Arthouse as we were part of this phenomenal organization for about 7 years or so while he grew up to be the wonderful young man that he is today.  My son was part of MANY of their FREE Art Classes; ranging from art, photography, cooking at Whole Foods, learning dance at the YMCA, theatre summer camp held at Sheridan College and so much more.  

I volunteered at the classes he was a part of and therefore saw firsthand the positive impacts, the milestones, the precious connections he made with Uncle Don Pangman, the connection we had with Gemma who has the biggest heart and such compassion for everyone.  Don played a huge role in our lives and I will forever be grateful for the positive male role model he was to Luis. Don and Gemma are such gracious people with all they do for so many children and for so many families over several years.  


I thank all those who donate, give of their time for the kids and for everyone and anyone who has helped make Arthouse what it is today.  We truly miss it yet we have lifelong memories to cherish forever.  I highly recommend sending your kids here.



Here is the link to their website for more info or to contact Don and/or Gemma.

https://arthousehalton.com/

Sunday, November 17, 2024

Chakras-Karma Gaia

 


Karma Gaia

hello

Quote of the day...

"Align your chakras, and you align with your true self—a vibrant, balanced, and limitless source of energy and light."

 
Unkown
 
 

IMAGE OF THE DAY

 

WEEKEND LEARNING
Chakra Healing Checklist

Use this checklist to assess and balance your chakras, ensuring optimal energy flow and well-being. For each chakra, reflect on the associated qualities and incorporate practices to promote healing and alignment.

1. Root Chakra (Muladhara)

Location: Base of the spine

Color: Red

Element: Earth

Focus: Safety, stability, and grounding

⬜ Feel grounded and secure in your environment.

⬜ Engage in grounding activities (e.g., walking barefoot, gardening).

⬜ Practice deep breathing or mindfulness meditation.

⬜ Eat grounding foods (e.g., root vegetables, proteins).

⬜ Use affirmations: "I am safe, stable, and secure." 

⬜ Incorporate essential oils (e.g., cedarwood, patchouli).

⬜ Wear or visualize the color red.

2. Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana) 

Location: Below the navel

Color: Orange

Element: Water

Focus: Creativity, pleasure, and emotions

⬜ Connect with your emotions and allow them to flow freely.

⬜ Practice creative expression (e.g., art, dance, writing).

⬜ Embrace activities that bring you joy and pleasure.

⬜ Drink plenty of water and eat hydrating foods (e.g., fruits).

⬜ Use affirmations: "I honor my creativity and emotions." 

⬜ Use essential oils (e.g., ylang-ylang, sweet orange).

⬜ Wear or visualize the color orange.

3. Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura) 

Location: Upper abdomen

Color: Yellow

Element: Fire

Focus: Confidence, willpower, and self-esteem

⬜ Set clear goals and take decisive action.

⬜ Engage in activities that boost confidence.

⬜ Practice core-strengthening exercises (e.g., yoga, pilates).

⬜ Eat warming foods (e.g., ginger, turmeric, yellow fruits).

⬜ Use affirmations: "I am strong, confident, and capable." 

⬜ Use essential oils (e.g., lemon, bergamot).

⬜ Wear or visualize the color yellow.

4. Heart Chakra (Anahata) 

Location: Center of the chest

Color: Green

Element: Air

Focus: Love, compassion, and forgiveness

⬜ Practice acts of kindness and gratitude.

⬜ Foster meaningful connections with others.

⬜ Meditate on love and compassion for yourself and others.

⬜ Eat green vegetables and leafy greens.

⬜ Use affirmations: "I am open to love and compassion." 

⬜ Use essential oils (e.g., rose, eucalyptus).

⬜ Wear or visualize the color green.

5. Throat Chakra (Vishuddha) 

Location: Throat

Color: Blue

Element: Ether

Focus: Communication and self-expression

⬜ Speak your truth and express yourself clearly.

⬜ Engage in singing, chanting, or journaling.

⬜ Drink herbal teas and stay hydrated.

⬜ Use affirmations: "I speak and express myself with clarity." 

⬜ Use essential oils (e.g., peppermint, chamomile).

⬜ Wear or visualize the color blue.

6. Third Eye Chakra (Ajna) 

Location: Between the eyebrows

Color: Indigo

Element: Light

Focus: Intuition, wisdom, and inner vision

⬜ Trust your intuition and inner guidance.

⬜ Practice visualization and mindfulness.

⬜ Meditate in a quiet, dimly lit environment.

⬜ Eat brain-nourishing foods (e.g., blueberries, nuts).

⬜ Use affirmations: "I trust my intuition and wisdom." 

⬜ Use essential oils (e.g., lavender, frankincense).

⬜ Wear or visualize the color indigo.

7. Crown Chakra (Sahasrara) 

Location: Top of the head

Color: Violet/White

Element: Cosmic Energy

Focus: Spiritual connection and enlightenment

⬜ Foster a sense of connection to the universe.

⬜ Practice meditation or prayer.

⬜ Read spiritual or philosophical texts.

⬜ Eat light, nourishing foods (e.g., fruits, herbal teas).

⬜ Use affirmations: "I am connected to universal energy." 

⬜ Use essential oils (e.g., sandalwood, lotus).

⬜ Wear or visualize the color violet/white.

 Final Steps 

⬜ Reflect on which chakras feel balanced and which may need attention.

⬜ Incorporate daily practices to support your energy flow.

⬜ Reassess periodically and adjust your healing routine as needed.

Feel free to print out this email or save this checklist for your chakra healing journey! πŸŒŸ