Nourish Your Nose, Nourish Your Body and Soul

For anyone who has ever felt their stress melt away like butter under the artful hands of a talented massage therapist, it is hard to imagine that anything could get better than that. It can, and the Greeks had the scoop on it in the 4th century.

Hippocrates, our father of medicine, defined medicine as "the art of rubbing".  More specifically however, he advised that people take "a daily aromatic bath and scented massage".  He theorized that to obtain true health one had to be balanced, and that the body had to be treated as a whole, not just a series of parts.

Like the ancient Egyptians and practitioners of traditional Chinese and Indian medicine centuries before him, Hippocrates also believed that essential oils could heal. Though many of Hippocrates' practices lost favour over the centuries, aromatic massage is one that is having a major revival.

Aromatic massage combines the topical benefits of essential oils with the therapeutic benefits of the massage. Essential oils, simply put, are the concentrated form of the oil of the plant from which they are taken. Each individual oil represents the unique scent and characteristics of its source plant. In aromatherapy, each of these scents or characteristics has noted therapeutic properties.

We all know about endorphins and can relate to how the scent of Grandma's lavender perfume on a forgotten sweater can momentarily wrap us up in one of her cocooning hugs. Interestingly enough, lavender was actually central to the freak incident that led to the development of the term 'aromatherapy'.  In the early 1900s a French chemist named Rene-Maurice Gattefosse burned his hand in a lab accident. He quickly doused it in the nearest container, one holding pure lavender oil. His hand healed so quickly, and with so little scarring, that he became fascinated with essential oils. He later went on to publish a book appropriately called 'Aromatherapy'.

With over 300 essential oils and a seemingly infinite combination of those to choose from, you are sure to find one that targets your specific needs. Give your therapist as much ammunition as possible in terms of lifestyle and health information, and you could find yourself healing, de-stressed, replenished and satiny smooth—all in one day. And remember to breathe. That can be the best part.

References

http://www.oilsandplants.com/gattefosse.htm

http://www.medicinenet.com/massage_therapy/article.htm

Pondering a Purse?

With the spring season upon us, you might be considering an update of your handbag. Once you have made the decision to invest in a new purse, there are many things to consider.

When it comes to purses, size does matter.  What will the bag be used for primarily? Will you use it every day to carry necessities like bottled water, hair products or slip-on walking shoes; or will it be a more formal or special occasion bag?  It pays to sit down and list everything that you plan to carry.  Then, refer to your list when you are shopping and see if the styles you are looking at fit the bill.

If features like a zip closure or exterior pockets are really important to you, don't justify a spending money on a bag that doesn't include them. You could regret the purchase the first time you find yourself feeling blindly for a missing cell phone at the bottom of your bag.

Colour often presents the biggest challenge when shopping for a handbag. Play it safe, or go wild? Neutral is often the best bet for larger, designer bag investments. Shades of black and brown go with everything and hold their value while trendy colours and embellishments can fade from style quickly.

However, if your wardrobe is crying out for a punch of colour, a red purse can be a great constant that lets others know that you do possess a little joie de vivre.
How important are dual straps to you? If you find yourself always slinging your purse over your shoulder, you probably shouldn't give up a shoulder strap entirely, even if a carry handle is an important option for you. Habits can be hard to break. Many a clutch purse has been left on banquet tables by former shoulder slingers! Know thyself.

Finally, shop around and stick to a budget. There are lots of great options and price points available today. Material and quality of construction are key factors that determine cost. Though these are qualities that are more easily assessed in person, there are many reputable online retailers. Ask around for referrals.

And remember, unless your old bag is truly beyond repair, there are lots of charities that would love to give it a chance to shop around again!

Product Spotlight: Pliable Paste from Joico

Hair pastes are a fantastic styling tool, offering control, texture, and the flexibility to work with your style. One of our favourites is Pliable Paste from Joico.

 Designed for medium to thick hair, lightweight Pliable Paste provides a clean matte finish with a long-lasting, firm hold. The advanced resin system in Pliable Paste adheres quickly and thoroughly to hair, meaning no flaking. Pliable Paste also protects hair: its combination of essential lipids, UVA/UVB filters, and antioxidants shields hair from sun and free radical damage. It is ideal for women’s and men’s short hairstyles.

 Pliable Paste and other Joico products are available at Great Lengths Hair Gallery. 

Relax with a Hot Stone Massage

While a massage is wonderful at any time of year, there is something particularly appealing about a hot stone massage in the winter. If you haven’t tried one, this might be the perfect time of year to do so.


The stones used in a hot stone massage are usually river rocks, made of basalt. The high iron levels in basalt help the rocks retain heat. The warmth of the stones offers an immediate sense of calm and also warms and relaxes the muscles so the therapist can apply deeper pressure, if needed.

After heating the rocks to the desired temperature, the therapist places them at specific points on the body, most often on the back, in the palms of the hands, and between the toes. Livestrong.com calls these “trigger points” (http://bit.ly/y0klq3) and notes that the heat from the stones opens blood vessels and may improve circulation.

In addition to improved circulation, there are many other benefits associated with hot stone massage: deep muscle and tissue relaxation; relief of anxiety and stress; pain relief from overworked muscles or even osteoarthritis; and helping to ease some of the symptoms of depression.

The massage therapist always checks the temperature before applying the rocks, but if you decide to try a hot stone massage and feel that the stones are too hot, it is important to let the therapist know.

As with any other therapy, if you have any serious health issues, check with your doctor before trying a hot stone massage. Hot stone massage is not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with high blood pressure, but for the majority of people, it can be a wonderful way to unwind, de-stress, and relieve muscle pain.

And the 2012 Colour of the Year Is...

What colour will be the hottest this year? According to the Pantone Color Institute® in the U.S., it’s Tangerine Tango. (http://bit.ly/zAQYpO)


The colour is described as a “spirited reddish orange...[r]eminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset” that will give us “energy boost we need to recharge and move forward,” and it is appearing in everything from fashion and makeup to home design.

Tommy Hilfiger is one of many designers to feature the colour in his Spring 2012 collection, although the Pantone Color Institute foresees the deep orange shade remaining popular through fall.

Orange has been a popular makeup shade since last year, and was recently seen on Girl with the Dragon Tattoo star Rooney Mara, whose head-to-toe orange look was praised by the editors at Glamour Beauty. (http://glmr.me/zm7ktI)

As for the home? Orange can be seen in all manner of accessories, from towels to vases to flatware.

If you want to introduce a little Tangerine Tango into your life but worry that it might be too overpowering, start small. Add a throw cushion or other small accents to a room. If you’re feeling a bit bolder, try using Tangerine Tango to paint an accent wall. (The Pantone Color Institute suggests adding it to the kitchen or an entryway or hallway.)

If you’d like to wear this popular colour, you can go big, with a striking orange dress like Rooney Mara’s, or small with a scarf or purse. How about trying orange eyeshadow? It might sound a bit extreme, but the colour is actually quite versatile and can really flatter blue or green eyes. A coral-toned blush suits many skin tones, and bold orange can look great on your nails. (Consider it if you are heading south this winter.)

Enjoy experimenting with this colour. It’s such a lively shade, you can’t help but have fun with it!

Getting Ready for the Oscars!

Movie award season is in full swing. Producers and critics’ groups have weighed in and the first of the big award shows, the Golden Globes, has already taken place. Still to come—the Screen Actors’ Guild (SAG) awards on January 29, the Independent Spirit Awards on February 25, and, of course, the Oscars on February 26.

The Oscars, for which nominations were just announced (http://bit.ly/A6hl3a), always get the most attention. And why not? This is the 84th year for the ceremony. Given the show’s longevity, it seems fitting that two of the most nominated films this year—Hugo and The Artist—celebrate the long history of film.

To get ready for the big ceremony, we’ve compiled some links to fill you in on all things Oscar:

• Once the nominations are announced, there is always lots of talk about who got snubbed. Entertainment Weekly (http://bit.ly/AaV9tv) was one of the first with a list of who did not make the cut, but should have (in their opinion). Eonline also shared their list of surprises and snubs on the day nominations were announced. (http://eonli.ne/xKu5FY)

• For a full list of nominations and a visual history of the Oscars (including fashion), visit www.oscar.go.com.

• Get an Oscar party kit here. (http://bit.ly/A4NVsp) It includes food and drink recipes, a downloadable Oscar ballot, and cards for an Oscar bingo game.

• There are lots of sites that promise a look at the best and worst Oscar dresses ever, including Vogue (http://bit.ly/zjFj6i), Time (http://ti.me/AEOS47), and Marie Claire (http://bit.ly/A36w0g).

• And one of our favourites...red carpet hairstyles! Here are Allure magazine’s best Oscar hairstyles of the past decade (http://on.allure.com/AmZkap) and Harper’s Bazaar’s iconic hair and beauty moments (http://bit.ly/ACWUZM).

Enjoy the show!

Nutrition Trends for 2012

The start of a new year often leads people to focus on their health. Here are some of the top “superfoods” that nutrition writers recommend you add to your diet this year:

• Chia Seeds. Yes, these are the same seeds used in chia pets, but don’t let that dissuade you! Nutritionists are touting the health benefits of these little seeds, which contain omega-3 fatty acids, soluble fibre, protein, and lots of minerals. In fact, chia seeds have more calcium than milk, more potassium than bananas, and more iron than spinach. To serve, sprinkle the seeds on cereal or yogurt, sprout them and add them to sandwiches, or use chia flour in baking.

• Pomegranates. These fruits have been on the radar of nutritionists for a while, but they seem to be everywhere now. Pomegranates contain high amounts of an antioxidant called ellagic acid, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Pomegranates are also considered a potential cancer-fighter. To remove the seeds from the pith, cut the fruit in half, only as deep as the skin. Pull it apart and submerge it in water as you peel the pith away from the seeds. The seeds will sink to the bottom.

• Black Garlic. A little shocking in appearance, black garlic has double the antioxidants of fresh garlic. The dark colour is achieved through fermentation. Use black garlic in dips, on crackers or crostini, or in pasta sauce.

• Gooseberries. These little berries contain lots of antioxidants, B-vitamins, and, surprisingly for a berry, high levels of protein. Gooseberries are tart, and better used in jams, chutneys, and pies or other baked goods than eaten off the vine.

• Black Rice. Black rice contains high levels of the same antioxidant found in blueberries (anthocyanin.) It is also high in fibre and a good source of iron. Cook black rice as you would any other type of rice.

Other foods that made the grade this year include: kale, quinoa, and legumes of all kinds, like adzuki beans, chickpeas, and black beans.

Sources: Canadian Living, Vancouver Sun, ivillage.ca.

How to Keep Hair Looking Great While Travelling

Whether you are heading south this winter or have a schedule full of business trips, you know the impact travel can have on your hair. Here are a few quick tips to keep your hair looking its best while you travel and throughout your trip:

Website WebMD recommends that you travel with a natural boar bristle brush to tend to hair without generating static. (Often a problem in the dry environment of an airplane.) You can also travel with a scarf or trendy hat to cover hair in case your style doesn’t survive the trip.

Wondering what to pack? Include a travel size shampoo, conditioner and only your essential styling aids. If you have room, a dry shampoo is always a good idea to reduce excess oil in hair, whether en route or at your destination. A small assortment of hair clips, elastics, and hair bands are handy for creating a pulled-together look even if you are overtired or stressed from travelling. And check with your hotel before you pack your hair dryer. Chances are there is one in the room that will work quite nicely for you.

Try to plan your hairstyles ahead of time so you know which hair accessories and tools you’ll need to pack. Quick, simple styles are often best when you’re on vacation or travelling for business. With simple styles, you may even be able to leave the curling iron or flat iron at home!

And remember that sun, saltwater, and chlorine from the hotel pool can cause a lot of damage to hair. When packing, try to find room for a leave-in conditioner. To minimize chlorine damage, rinse your hair with tap water before and after swimming. And remember a broad-brimmed sun hat to protect hair from the sun’s rays. (More tips on minimizing hair damage can be found at skincare-news.com. http://bit.ly/AEEzle)

Bon voyage!

Great Lengths Christmas Playlist

Christmas time is here again and the Christmas tunes are playing at Great Lengths! Here's just a sample of some classics and some hidden gems on our playlist this year.

1.Christmas Time Is Here Again - The Beatles Listen!
2.Last Christmas - Jimmy Eat World Listen!
3.My Grown Up Christmas List - Kelly Clarkson Listen!
4.Peace On Earth - U2 Listen!
5.Santa Claus Is Back In Town - Elvis Presley Listen!
6.Santa Claus Is Coming To Town - Bruce Springsteen Listen!
7.Back Door Santa - Clarence Carter Listen!
8.Better Days - Goo Goo Dolls Listen!
9.Christmas Lights - Coldplay Listen!
10.Christmas Time - Bryan Adams Listen!
11.All I Want For Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey Listen!
12.Mary Did You Know - Clay Aiken * Listen!

*I know it's Clay Aiken, but it's a good Christmas song.

Product Spotlight: Poo-Pourri

Bathroom odour is not a pleasant topic, but such smells are a fact of life. Fortunately, there is Poo-Pourri. These natural, essential-oil-based bathroom deodorizers control odour “by creating a barrier that prevents embarrassing bathroom smells from ever escaping the toilet.”

How does it work? You spray the patent-pending formula directly into the toilet before you go and the product’s essential oils trap the odour before it can get out.

The company has a long list of testimonials, including praise from The Chicago Tribune and Glamour magazine. Their line of bathroom deodorizers uses essential oils like grapefruit, bergamot, lemongrass, orange, neroli, sandalwood, and vetiver. The company also makes a fabulous hand sanitizer called Down & Dirty Waterless Hand Cleanser that contains malachite (a “natural defense”), aloe vera, and green tea.

Use Poo-Pourri at work, when you stay with family or friends, or in your own home. It comes in purse-size and bathroom-size bottles and costs only about 8 cents per use.

Get yours now at Great Lengths Hair Gallery!

Holiday Shopping at 15% Off!

Don’t sweat the small stuff. That’s our mantra this holiday season. Stocking stuffers, hostess gifts, a little something for your co-workers—we’ve got the small stuff covered. And during December, you can enjoy a 15% discount on all Great Lengths retail items.


VAPUR water bottles, EOS lip balms, Footzy Rolls, Poo-Pourri waterless hand cleaner (ideal for keeping colds and flu at bay)—we have a great selection of unique and fun gifts for just about everyone on your list. So be sure to stop by and get some Christmas shopping done. While you’re here, check out our stellar line-up of hair care products from Moroccan Oil and Kevin Murphy. They’re on sale too!

And remember, Great Lengths is once again supporting the Chum Christmas Wish. If you drop off a new, unwrapped toy before December 17, you’ll be eligible to win a $100 Great Lengths gift card!

Happy holidays!

Ginger for the Holidays and More!

As the holiday baking season starts, we hear a lot about ginger. Gingerbread is a Christmas favourite, but ginger has many uses beyond spicing up cookies.


Remember when you got the stomach flu as a child and your mom or dad gave you ginger ale? Turns out they were calling upon centuries of wisdom. Ginger has been used since ancient times as a digestive aid and recent scientific studies have proven that ginger does, in fact, relieve nausea and upset stomachs. Preliminary studies have found that ginger may lower cholesterol and help prevent blood from clotting. Ginger is also being investigated for its effect on a number of cancers. Much more research is needed to determine the effect on humans, but there is some evidence that ginger may kill cancer cells in test tubes. (http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/ginger-000246.htm)

Deepak Chopra, a practitioner of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian lifestyle, says in his cookbook that ginger has a strong cleansing effect on the body and soothes and cleans the respiratory tract, making it a good choice during cold and flu season. He also says that ginger tea can help reduce cravings for sweet and salty snacks. Others believe that ginger has anti-inflammatory effects and can help reduce pain.

Ginger tea is one of the easiest ways to consume ginger. Simply steep a few slices of fresh ginger in boiling water. Ginger is also a common ingredient in Asian and Indian cuisine and, of course, in holiday treats. As with anything else, moderation is key. As Mark Vincent of the University of Western Ontario notes, there is no “guarantee that long-term ginger consumption is risk-free”. (http://bit.ly/unXUmh) And you should always consult a physician before treating yourself with ginger or any other “superfood”, especially if you are pregnant or have any underlying medical conditions

Braids

One of the big hair trends for this season is braids. From side-swept to fishtail to French braids, this style has been called elegant, sophisticated, and practical.

A story in the International Herald Tribune said of braids: “There is nothing more practical, romantic and easy-to-do than all kinds of braided hairstyles. Braids and braided head buns make you look like a character from a rose tinted Jane Austen novel. Braids have been adopted and reinvented in every wave of fashion the world has come across. From Grecian goddesses to the contemporary supermodels, every woman has tried to twist and turn braids to create their respective signature looks. Besides, milkmaid braids and side-swept, overlapping braid hairstyles are also making a comeback this season.” (http://bit.ly/uFMnZo)

We have collected a few photos and how-to videos to help you make the most of this trend.

• Some images of the braided updo to inspire you... http://www.bellasugar.com/Braided-Updo-Trend-Fall-2011-19063624

• The super-trendy fishtail braid...a how-to in pictures. http://www.bellasugar.com/How--Learn-Fishtail-Braid-2772862

• Scroll down for videos that show you how to do the fishtail braid and a French braid. http://www.beautips.info/make-up-and-hairstyle-tips/winter-2010-2011-hairstyle-trends-braided-hairdos/

• A how-to on creating a braided bun, a la Taylor Swift. http://bit.ly/vo6fJu

• A side-swept, fashionably untidy braid. http://bit.ly/rrfs0S

• Using a leather strip as an accent for a braid... http://bit.ly/rACfHh

• 5 ways to wear a headband braid, even if your hair is short. http://bit.ly/vSrF7r

Whether you are planning to braid your hair for a special occasion or for everyday wear, there are lots of styles to choose from. You may even want to try a few to see which one works best for you!

Movember...for Men’s Health

We’ve talked in recent posts about ovarian and breast cancer, and this month we turn our attention to prostate cancer and men’s health.

During the month of November, men the world over will commit to growing moustaches as part of “Movember,” a global movement to generate awareness of men’s health issues while raising funds for prostate cancer research. As the Movember Canada website states: “The appearance of a moustache on a usually clean shaven man prompts questions from those around them. Throughout the month of Movember they are constantly asked the question - why the moustache? Each Mo Bro then needs to justify his new look with an explanation about the unique challenges men face with their health, and information about prostate cancer. The result is a highly effective and authentic word-of-mouth campaign. “

One of the goals of the campaign is to encourage men to have a complete physical, including cancer screening, because many types of cancer that affect men—prostate, testicular, and skin—can be cured if caught early.

Product Spotlight: EOS Lip Balm

With their bright colours and unique spherical shape, EOS lip balms certainly get noticed. Once you get past the fun and funky packaging, you’ll find a product that is definitely worthy of the attention.


EOS stands for the “evolution of smooth”—a description that certainly fits. EOS lip balm is gluten-free, paraben-free, petrolatum-free, and phthalate-free. It is also 95% organic and 100% natural. Its ingredients include proven natural moisturizers, shea butter and jojoba oil, and antioxidant-rich vitamin E. And EOS products are not tested on animals.

Smooth sphere lip balms come in a range of natural flavours that glide on easily, including summer fruit, honeysuckle honeydew, medicated tangerine, lemon drop (SPF 15), and sweet mint. Smooth stick lip balm also comes in sweet mint and two additional flavours: vanilla bean and pomegranate raspberry. (Full ingredient lists are available on the company’s website as www.evolutionofsmooth.com.)

EOS lip balms are a must-have, especially for the upcoming winter season. They also make great stocking stuffers for anyone who wants to get a jump on their Christmas shopping! Visit Great Lengths Hair Gallery for a full selection of EOS lip balms.

Pumpkin—Not Just for Pie

The word “pumpkin” typically brings two thoughts to mind—pie and Halloween. But highly nutritious pumpkin can (and should) be a lot more than a dessert or decoration.

Most of us have probably heard about “eating a rainbow” of produce, since more colours mean a broader range of nutrients. The deep yellow/orange hue of pumpkin is part of this rainbow. Pumpkin and other squash are loaded with important carotenoids, which have been shown to prolong life. (http://bit.ly/pUxc5w ). Pumpkin is particularly high in alpha-carotene, which some sources say is a more powerful cancer-fighter than its better known relative, beta-carotene. (http://bit.ly/nZMbf1)

Pumpkin provides a lot of fibre with few calories. It is also a good source of vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, iron, and calcium.

And don’t forget the seeds. Whether you scrape them out of your jack-o-lantern and roast them yourself, or buy them from your local bulk food store, pumpkin seeds (also known as pepitas) offer a lot of nutritional benefits. According to Canadian Living, they are “among the leaders of phytosterols -- a naturally occurring compound with an established reputation for cholesterol-lowering properties. Phytosterols are also being studied for their potential role in prostate health. Each 1/4 cup (50 millilitre) serving of the seed provides a healthy dose of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and is a good source of minerals, including phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and iron, making it one of the most nutritious and flavourful seeds around.” Pumpkin seeds can be sprinkled in salads or on soups, but be sure you don’t go overboard. One cup of pumpkin seeds is 750 calories. (http://bit.ly/nB8j9o)

Pumpkin is very easy to incorporate into your diet, and not just in the form of pumpkin pie. Pumpkin and squash puree make wonderful soups. Roasted pumpkin or squash can be seasoned in a variety of ways—butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and curry can all be used to create different side dishes. What’s more, pumpkin and squash are grown locally and are abundant this time of year, so be sure to get yours!

Product Spotlight: Kevin Murphy Session Spray

Intense hold with humidity resistance and UV protection—what more could hair need?

Kevin Murphy Session Spray provides a firm hold without flakiness. It contains hydrolyzed wheat protein, a natural source of vitamin C that creates a protective barrier against moisture loss while promoting shine. Its ivy leaf/stem extract helps to seal in moisture to prevent breakage while also adding shine. Ivy extract also helps prevent and treat dryness caused by too much exposure to heat.

The styling resins used in Session Spray provide a firm but flexible hold with excellent memory and resistance against high humidity.

As much as we love what is in Session Spray, the list of what’s not in it is equally impressive. It is free of parabens and CFCs. It is also low-VOC (volatile organic compound).

Session Spray is halfway between a styling product and a finishing product. The moulding resins it contains are a slightly wetter formulation than standard hairsprays and allow you to style the hair with a sleeker appearance.

Session Spray and other Kevin Murphy styling products are available now at Great Lengths Hair Gallery.

What’s Hot for Accessories this Fall

Accessories are an easy, affordable way to stay on trend each season. Here are just a few of the more “accessible” accessory trends this fall, summarized from Vogue magazine:




• Colour blocking in purses and shoes. Contrasting blocks of colour—turquoise and earth tones, oranges and reds—are paired together in geometric designs that make a bold statement.

• Snakeskin. Animal prints in general are very popular this season, but snakeskin is making an appearance in accessories. Real snakeskin is beyond the reach of most people, but there are plenty of faux snakeskin purses, boots, and shoes around for those who prefer a more affordable option.

• Gloves. Gloves were all over fall runways and shown in a variety of styles, colours, and materials—lace, leather, fur, snakeskin, and even polka-dotted.

• Long earrings. Again, the emphasis is on variety, from long tasselled earrings that graze the shoulder to delicate beading and large geometric shapes.

• Menswear-inspired shoes. The hot shoes for fall are penny loafers, brogues, and tasselled shoes with a feminine touch delivered via a high heel. The Toronto Star featured this trend in its fashion pages recently.( http://bit.ly/oRAkN0)

• Clutches. The clutch purse is a big trend, and the colour blocking trend is apparent here too.



To get a look at these and other trends in accessories, visit Vogue’s gallery at http://bit.ly/pz3EPZ0.

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Ovarian cancer is known as the “disease that whispers” because its symptoms are very hard to detect. Every year more than 2,600 women are diagnosed with the disease and 1,750 women die from it.

If caught in its early stages, the success rate for treatment is 90%, but to ensure the disease is detected early more awareness of the signs and symptoms is needed. In 2010, Canada’s Minister of Health urged women to learn about these symptoms (http://bit.ly/o4HLpy).

The challenge with this type of cancer, according to Ovarian Cancer Canada, is that the symptoms are “generally vague, non-specific and can be mistakenly attributed to other causes.” Common warning symptoms include:

• Swelling or bloating of the abdomen

• Pelvic discomfort or heaviness

• Back or abdominal pain

• Fatigue

• Gas, nausea, indigestion

• Change in bowel habits

• Frequent urination
• Menstrual irregularities
• Weight loss or weight gain

Ovarian Cancer Canada also notes that recent onset or severity in any of these symptoms warrants further diagnostic investigation. A Pap smear cannot detect ovarian cancer—a full pelvic exam is necessary.

The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age, as most cases occur after menopause. There is increased risk in women who have not had children or never taken oral contraceptives. Women who have had breast or colon cancer or have a family history of those diseases are also at higher risk for developing ovarian cancer, as are women who are members of the Ashkenazi Jewish community.

To learn more about this disease, including more symptoms and tips for prevention, visit the Ovarian Cancer Canada website (http://www.ovariancanada.org/), and look for their sunflower fundraiser at grocery stores near you. (http://bit.ly/o1yhyx)

Mark Your Calendars for the Markham Fair!

Canada’s largest 4-day agricultural fair will be held this September 29 through October 2. The Markham Fair takes place at the Markham Fair grounds, located on the North East corner of McCowan Road and Elgin Mills Road (10801 McCowan Road).

The Markham Fair is one of Canada’s oldest country fairs. According to the fair’s website, “Since 1844 the fair has been providing the community with a showcase for talents and products in a friendly competitive spirit. With over 670 volunteers working on more than 70 committees, Markham Fair is the largest community based volunteer organization in Canada.”

There are lots of great events at the fair this year including:

• Monster trucks in the “largest outdoor monster madness show in 2011.”
• A truck and tractor pull.
• Horse shows.
• Video dance party.
• Teen talent show.
• A meet-and-greet with Dora the Explorer and Kai-lan.
• A demolition derby.
• A giant fireworks display.

In addition to the special events listed above, there is also ongoing entertainment from Silver Elvis, Madame Buskerfly, and Doug the Great. As always, there is lots of great stuff for kids, like Reptilia, face painting, elephant rides, pony rides, and the midway.

Last year 66,000 people visited the fair. It is a great time for the entire family. Great Lengths Hair Gallery will be at the fair, as we are every year, and we hope to see you there! To learn more about the fair, visit http://www.markhamfair.ca/fair.asp.