LAUREN WALKER Special to The Standard Let's take a closer look at how our emotions and physical health are connected and how we can improve that connection. Let's dive into some healthy habits. Whether it's taking a half hour to go for a walk, taking an art course or meditation. An activity that allows you to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself. Exercise You knew I'd get here sooner or later. Movement is a natural high which releases happy hormones i

by Lauren Walker My favourite go to snack is apples dipped in peanut butter. I don't mind bruises on my apples, I'll happily gobble them down any time. They may be flawed on the outside but just as sweet on the inside. The so called 'imperfections' on the outside can effect how we see ourselves and effect our physical wellness. Let's look into the mind and body connection. Emotional Wellness - There are those who find it difficult to make meaningful change because of unresolv

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard KAWARTHA LAKES: The Kawartha Art Gallery is set to shine a spotlight on the next generation of local talent, with its upcoming Young Musicians Showcase, bringing together students from across the community, for an evening of music and inspiration. The concert, part of the Gallery’s 2025/26 Music Series, will take place on Wednesday, April 15th, at 7 p.m., at Celebrations, in Lindsay, located at 35 Lindsay Str

by Lauren Walker "Whether you are a beginner or seasoned artist, don't make the same mistakes many artists make. It's imperative to keep your skills sharp and know how to value your work. 1) Never Under Value Your Work I start with an hourly rate, and price my work based on that. I take in to account my time, effort, and materials. Your hourly rate should reflect your skill level. Price per hour × hours to complete painting, + materials, + travel time (if required for materia

by Lauren Walker My last article touched on a few key items about exercise after a stroke. We've worked with many clients seeking rehab and our goal is to develop strength through the use of progressive weight bearing exercise. Our current client was affected on the left side and therefore her arm and leg suffered subsequent weakness. Let's dive into the key to getting our client up and walking with assistance. Assess the Client One size does not fit all, in this situation. T

By: Lauren Walker Working with older adults for 20+ years has allowed me insight to the aging process. I'll be turning forty this year and most of my clients are 30+ years older than I. I see common threads amongst the aging population and as they age, little things become big challenges. My purpose, as a personal trainer, is to help them maintain functionality in their daily lives. Let's look at the common issues I help my clients with. Its All in the Hips One of the biggest

by Lauren Walker Valentines Day is fast approaching which makes me think of how to keep our hearts healthy. Health is always number one in my book and being well means more time for who you love. Your heart is a muscle Why is it so imperative to look after your heart? It only supplies blood and oxygen to your entire body! Keeping the traffic flowing means finding ways to make your heart more efficient. This means, yes, you guessed it: exercise is vital to keep it strong. What

by Lauren Walker Would you believe I had my very first experience with vertigo when I was thirty and again five years ago. No, this isn’t just an age related problem but it can be scary, if you’ve never experienced it before. I worked with a client today and, she is currently having to manage symptoms for the first time. At 75, it was obvious she was feeling uneasy. Exercise is an important help to manage symptoms but where do you start? Take a Moment There are varying levels

by Lauren Walker What is a resolution? According to Google, “A firm decision to do or not do something.” It got me thinking about the reality of resolutions and why people wait for a New Year to start. If you’re a Star Wars fan, you’ll know who said this, “Do or do not. There is no try.” A resolution really means nothing if you’re not following through. More Than Words The word itself reminds me of other words I dislike such as, “diet” which I never ever use. It is a buzzword

by Lauren Walker It seems Christmas is coming quickly! I am so happy to share my latest happenings, as its been a busy few months. Christmas Ornaments It is that time of year, and my 2025 Christmas Ornament, “The Place to Meet for a Christmas Treat,” featuring Hanks Pastries, has already sold out. I currently have two designs available, so please check my Facebook page for more information. Santa’s Float Fundraiser I’ve partnered with the North Durham Chamber and my design, “

by Lauren Walker Have aches and pains beyond normal? Do you find it hard to sleep? Maybe you have stomach pain and have trouble going to the bathroom. No, you’re not facing some life-altering health issue, but there is something going on. What is it? STRESS. People tend to search for physical reasons for why these physical symptoms are occurring. At the top of my list of causes, stress is number one. It has such a distinct effect on both your physical and mental well-being, y

by Lauren Walker A frustrating part of aging for my clients is their short-term memory. While their body are in good condition, it becomes a struggle to remember basic things. It’s quite frankly, a downer for a lot of my older clients. While age-related memory loss is normal, what can I do as a personal trainer to help? The Benefits of Exercise Increases blood flow to the Brain by improving circulation Releases hormones that lower inflammation and insulin resistance, protecti

by Lauren Walker Since Autumn is upon us, I thought it pertinent to talk about Fall. The leaves are falling and it got me thinking about Fall prevention! My clients have a varying range of mobility issues and a very realistic concern is falling. Fear of Falling Life is unpredictable, so its important to mention, I cannot necessarily prevent people from falling. Sometimes it just happens! Even those who do not have mobility issues can find themselves in these moments. The good

by Lauren Walker Well, it has been a busy autumn thus far! I’m happy my September course filled up; and my October course is just about...

by Lauren Walker When my dad started mentioning his wrists were bothering him, we first thought he’d been doing too much sanding with a...

by Lauren Walker What gets you out of bed in the morning? When you wake up every day, there are a million reasons not to exercise, but...

by Lauren Walker Have you ever wanted to learn how to paint but are not quite sure where to start? I’m an award winning local artist and...

by Lauren Walker I wrote an article for the “Art, Artists, Artwork” website, called “The Right Art-itude” for success. I cover all the...

by Lauren Walker Over the years I've heard a lot of misconceptions about exercise. These false ideas can discourage people from...

by Lauren Walker I wrote an article for the “Art, Artists, Artwork” website, called “The Right Art-itude” for success. I cover all the...