Is “fight or flight” a friend or foe?

(Fri, 16 Nov 2018 15:39:56 +0000)

This blog post was written by Nature Canada guest blogger Sherry Nigro, and is the third in a series of blogs on the effect of nature on mental health. The Stress Response For millennia, the biological ‘fight or flight’ reaction has served to protect members of the animal kingdom from harm. It kicks in when there is potential danger; for example, when a rabbit senses a fox.  There is an autonomic cascade of reactions that is activated in the amygdala in the brain.  In turn, it signals the hypothalamus which launches a series of reactions of the sympathetic nervous system.  Adrenaline floods the body causing increased heart rate and respiration.  Glucose goes to the muscles for instant energy; senses are heightened to hear, see and… read more →

A Perfect Winter Break in Toronto

(Thu, 15 Nov 2018 19:17:14 +0000)

Toronto is well known for its world-class sightseeing, incredible foodie scene and shopping to die for. But what you may not know is that all this doesn’t shut down over winter. Far from it; Toronto comes into its element in the colder months with a host of vibrant festivals, events and winter sports to get […]

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Widows is the Oscar-worthy movie Viola Davis deserves and America needs

(Fri, 16 Nov 2018 04:00:00 EST)

Widows is a new heist movie featuring a remarkable ensemble directed by Steve McQueen. Eli Glasner says the film about a group of women in city riven with crime and corruption is a must see.