National Physical Fitness and Sports Month: Why It Matters in BC
Every May, National Physical Fitness and Sports Month shines a spotlight on the importance of movement, exercise, and building sustainable healthy habits. While it originated in the U.S., the message strongly resonates here in British Columbia—especially in active, outdoor-focused cities like Vancouver. For those of us working in kinesiology, this month is more than just a reminder to “move more.” It’s an opportunity to rethink how we approach movement, prevent injury, and build a body that supports our lifestyle year-round. Why This Month Matters for British Columbians Living in BC comes with a
How Breathing Influences the Vagus Nerve: A Kinesiology Perspective
What Is the Vagus Nerve? The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body and a central component of the parasympathetic nervous system. Its primary role is to help shift the body into a “rest and digest” state, counteracting the “fight or flight” response. From a kinesiology standpoint, the vagus nerve influences: Heart rate Digestion Inflammation Muscle recovery Stress regulation Because of this, it plays a critical role in both performance and rehabilitation. The Connection Between Breathing and the Vagus Nerve Breathing is one of the few bodily functions that is both automatic and consciously controllable. This makes
Why Fall Risk Is the Biggest Threat to Those 65 and Older
Canada is fortunate to have one of the strongest healthcare systems in the world. As a result, people are living longer than ever before, contributing to a steadily ageing population. It’s projected that adults aged 65 and older will make up more than one-fifth of the Canadian population by 2068. While longevity is something to celebrate, it also brings new challenges—one of the most significant being the increased risk of falls. For older adults, fall risk is influenced by several factors, including reduced mobility and balance, muscle weakness, and vision changes.