We know you've been asking, so here it is - Diana's coveted recipe for her home-made natural hand sanitizer we have in our reception area: 

2 drops tea tree essential oil
2 drops oil of oregano 
3 drops eucalyptus essential oil
4 drops lemon grass essential oil
1 tbsp witch hazel
3 tbsp aloe vera gel
1 tsp vitamin E (soothing and acts as a preservative)

Combine ingredients in a small bowl. Stir well. Pour into the container of choice and use as needed!
This is a formula that is easier on your skin and doesn't have the strong smell of traditional hand sanitizers. There are natural germ killing properties in tea tree oil, oil of oregano and witch hazel. Use this DIY hand sanitizer in conjunction with regular hand washing, coughing or sneezing into your elbow, and limiting physical contact while sick to help prevent the spread of germs and sickness!

Disclaimer: We understand that there are limitations to the power of essential oils and recognize this recipe may not prevent all illness or kill all germs. We do not intend to replace accepted public health preventative measures with this recipe. We understand there are situations where alcohol-based sanitizers are necessary, and support their use. 

It is finally feeling like spring around the city and we could not be more excited to be done with the snow and ice! With the warmer weather out, and the snow melting, it's time to get outdoors and enjoy some of the fresh air. Whether your outdoor activity of choice is walking, running, biking, gardening or something else, it's important to prepare your body for the activity you are about to do, especially if you haven't done it in a while! Follow these helpful tips below to prevent injury and have a great start to your spring:

1) Do a light warm-up before any activity that could be strenuous. (including gardening). A 5-10 minute walk around the block and some gentle stretching for the upper and lower body will help warm up your muscles and prevent soreness after your activity.
2) Make sure your equipment is ready for you. Getting your bike tuned up after a winter of storage or making sure your running shoes are in good condition will help make your transition back to your activities much smoother.
3) When gardening, squat or kneel, don't bend. Gardening can be very taxing on the back if you spend the whole time bending over. Try kneeling or squatting down to do your planting, or bring a low stool over and sit if it's easier on your knees.
4) Hydrate. Make sure you are drinking water while outside in the sunny weather, as well as after your activity. Staying hydrated helps your body recover from physical activity.

For more helpful articles about keeping your body healthy during activities, check out the Ontario Chiropractic Association's website: www.chiropractic.on.ca/public/your-back-health/

Happy Spring!