St. Valentine

Valentine was the bishop of Interamna during a period of oppression when Claudius II, Emperor of Rome had outlawed marriage in 270A.D. The emperor thought that married men would make bad soldiers as they would be reluctant to leave their families in case of a war. He also outlawed Christianity because he felt to be the one supreme God, Emperor of Rome and wanted to be praised as such.

Valentine disagreed with the Emperor's outlaws and believed them to be wrong. He believed people should be free to love God and marry. He invited young couples, and secretly performed services to marry and unite the couples. Valentine was eventually caught and brought before the Emperor in which he tried to persuade Valentine to leave Christianity and serve the Roman Empire and Roman Gods, and in exchange the Emperor would pardon Valentine and make him his alley. Valentine declined the offer, stood within his faith and did not renounce God. As a result the St. Valentine was sentenced to execution which would consist of being beaten, stoned, and finally decapitated. St. Valentine died on February 14, 270 A.D.

Do you believe this story to be true? Either way it inspires the fact for the freedom to love without condition, for love is of God. It begins from within. When we find love for ourselves first, we will experience Gods true love, and love for others.

Have a Happy and Wonderful Valentines Day!

I Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant.

Women and Heart Health

The first Friday in the month of February marks National Wear Red Day. This campaign was designed to encourage women (and men) to wear red in support for the awareness of heart disease in women.

Did you know...

• Eight times as many women die from heart disease and stroke than from breast cancer. 41% of all Canadian women's deaths are due to heart disease and stroke, compared to 37% of men
• A women's risk of death from heart disease increases 4 times after menopause
• Women with diabetes at any age are at more risk of developing heart disease and stroke than men with diabetes.
• Compared to active women, inactive women are twice as likely to die from heart disease and stroke
• Heart disease is the leading cause of death followed by Cancer, Stroke, Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases, Alzheimer's and Unintentional Injuries

Prevention Tips...

Manage your weight: eliminate processed foods, white flours, white sugars. Incorporate green leafy vegetables and fresh fruits, and supplement with essential fatty acids. Exercise everyday, minimum 20-30 minutes cardiovascular activity. (Make sure to first consult your practitioner before hand should you have any health issues)

Reduce Stress: Bringing balance between work and family life can be difficult at times. Taking the time to relax, unwind and enjoy life is important. Take time for yourself, do something you enjoy. Take a moment out of your day to "be still", finding quietness and peace for reflecting and meditating.

Choose a healthier lifestyle: Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption

Women are known as the care-givers, the nurturer's that wears her heart on her sleeve. Well it's time to put ourselves first to ensure we live a long, healthy and enjoyable life. Afterall, who wants to die of a broken heart?