Professional Advice

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This Interview is with the one and only Dr of Chiropractic,Tonya Luby in which she answers questions about how chiropractic treatments can help our bodies heal and why should we incorporate them in our daily lifes.

Dr. Tonya Luby was born and raised in Tors Cove, Newfoundland. She earned her Honours B. Sc. in Biology from St. Francis Xavier University and then graduated from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in 2001.

Since graduating, Dr. Tonya has built a family focused practice where her passion is natural family living and caring for expectant women, infants and kids. Dr. Tonya has since graduation completed the diplomate program offered by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, is certified in Webster Technique and has completed many courses in cranial adjusting, spinning babies and functional neurology.

Hi, Dr Tonya and thank you so much for taking the time to do this interview. I am certain that many readers will be positively influenced by your knowledge and will look to improve their lifes with the amazing chiropractic treatments you can offer to them.

1. How long have you been a chiropractor and what made you become one?

Hi everyone. I’m so excited to be able to be part of this professionals series. My name is Dr. Tonya Luby and I am a family chiropractor. I have been in practice for 20 years with a strong focus on pregnancy, infants, children and families.

I remember specifically the day that I decided I wanted to be a chiropractor. I was 14 years old and listening to a chiropractor speak at a career fair in my high school. I was completely drawn to a lifestyle of helping people, in a natural way, to reach their full health potential.

2. What exactly does a chiropractor do and when should someone consider seeing a chiropractor?

Chiropractic is an amazing profession.

For those of you who aren’t completely familiar with the premise, chiropractors actually work with a persons nervous system and spine to ensure that the body is operating at its full potential. Our brains communicate with our bodies through our nervous system. Our brain is continually telling our bodies how to heal, regulate, maintain and be adaptable to the stresses of life that we deal with every day.  

When there is interference to this communication, then our bodies are not functioning as well as they potentially can. Chiropractors help remove the stress to the nervous system so that our bodies can heal, regulate and be as adaptable as possible.  

Everyone can benefit from chiropractic care. In my practice I see people of all ages, including newborns. Sometimes the process of being born is also hard on the baby, not just on the mom.

3. Can you please share how you help women throughout a pregnancy period ? 

Pregnancy is one of the most important times to seek chiropractic care. The mom’s body is changing rapidly from day to day, so being adaptable is more important than ever.

Chiropractic care during pregnancy has been shown to create a more comfortable pregnancy, reduce labor time and the need for interventions , as well as help the baby get into ideal birthing position.

4. Many parents bring their children right after birth and then they continue throughout their childhood, would you please share any specifics on treating babies and children ?

Many families choose chiropractic care for their children, starting in infancy. As we know, babies are developing rapidly in the first few years.

All of their growth and development is directed by their nervous system. Since Chiropractic care is aimed at reducing any interference to these messages it is helping children grow up to be as healthy as possible.

Chiropractors help remove the stress to the nervous system so that our bodies can heal, regulate and be as adaptable as possible.  

5. For someone who has never seen a chiropractor before, what is one thing you wish they knew about chiropractic care?

There are many people who are completely unaware of how chiropractic works.

The one thing that I wish everyone knew is the Chiropractic can help you function at your optimal potential.

Another thing I wish people knew about chiropractic is that there are many different techniques that can be used, and that chiropractic care can be adapted to your specific state of health and needs.

For example, chiropractic care for infants and children is completely different from chiropractic care for adults. The amount of pressure required for chiropractic with an infant is similar to the amount of pressure you would put on a tomato to see if it is ripe.

6. You have a successful career as a chiropractor, but you are also a mom and a wife, how do you balance everything to stay happy and healthy ?

I truly believe that Chiropractic chose me. That being said, I am also a wife and mom.

I have three very active growing children and for all of you parents, you realize how challenging that can be. Chiropractic is a lifestyle choice. My children have received chiropractic care since they were born.

Everyday I choose to raise my family following the five fundamentals of a healthy lifestyle. These include exercise, real food, proper sleep, mental balance and of course, Chiropractic.  

I will not say that it is always easy, but I also know that giving my children the healthiest start in their early years will also benefit them down the road.

7.Can you share a story or experience where you have enabled a positive change in a patient’s life ?

I have been very privileged to be in this profession for 20 years. I have cared for patients from infancy through to university years, from parenting to grandparenting years, and through all sorts of stages of life.

The most amazing thing about my profession is the relationships that I build with patients. I really care for these people and their families and I’m honored that they chose me to be their family chiropractor.

8.From your perspective, what’s one thing we can do today to start to feel better? 

If there is one thing that I could tell people to help them get on the road to a healthier lifestyle ,it would be to set a realistic  goal and then start taking small steps towards it, today.

Progress not perfection!

For example, start walking 10 minutes a day, substitute fruit for one snack a day, go to sleep a half an hour earlier and of course, book a chiropractic assessment to see how Chiropractic can help change your life.

The most amazing thing about my profession is the relationships that I build with patients. I really care for these people and their families and I’m honored that they chose me to be their family chiropractor.

Thank you so much to Tonya for taking the time to do this Interview.

Do you have any additional questions for Dr Tonya ? Let us know in the comments below!

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Really liked what Dr Tonya had to say in our Interview with a Chiropractor? Make sure you contact her and Book a Consultation for your road to better health!

Hi Mamas ! I have the pleasure of sharing with you an interview with a wonderful friend and person who also happens to be a Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), Debby Noar.

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Hi Debby ! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions for my readers and I.

I would love if you could start by telling us a little bit about you:

I am an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Registered Nurse and Canadian Red Cross Instructor in Toronto, Canada. 

With over 22 years of nursing experience, I specialized to focus on the needs and concerns of breastfeeding families.

As a Re-certified Lactation Consultant, I worked with thousands of mothers and their newborns in hospitals, clinics and in their homes and acquired vast clinical experience to perfect my skills in breastfeeding and counselling, as well as education for new families. 

As a Canadian Red Cross Certified CPR Instructor, I love focusing on teaching important Life-saving and First Aid skills for families and businesses.

What made you decide to become a lactation consultant ?

I wanted to become an LC when I returned from Maternity leave and began working as an RN on a local Toronto postpartum floor. 
After having the most wonderful breastfeeding experience with my son and I saw so many mothers struggling with breastfeeding it just felt so natural to help others build confidence and see their new infants drinking well.

So I began seeking out mentors and education opportunities to put me on the right path. 

Breastfeeding is important in the life of a baby from day one, please give us some insight on this topic.

I believe that every mother can learn to experience feeding her baby with confidence, with comfort and with mindfulness.

As an experienced Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) I have a rich knowledge and deep understanding of the physical, emotional and mental health concerns that new mothers face after birth. With my non-judgmental and inclusive values, I especially love to support Mums and Babes in the first tender week/s of life. 

My passion is to support new parents with these concerns, answer your questions and offer practical skills and individualized care to achieve your breastfeeding goals.

Common reasons for needing an LC are:

• Latching difficulties including nipple or breast pain, frequent or prolonged feeding, positioning and attachment and a sleepy baby.

• Milk supply concerns including low supply, over abundant supply and baby’s slow weight gain.

• Breastfeeding a premature baby and/or multiple babies.

• Maternal support for: breastfeeding after a Cesarean section, prior breast surgery, engorgement, blocked ducts and mastitis.

• Reassurance that breastfeeding is going well through mindfulness and relaxation.

What are the most common breastfeeding mistakes parents make?

I don’t think that new parents make mistakes. I think there is a preconceived idea that breastfeeding is ‘easy’ and ‘natural’ and they are surprised and often upset by the early breastfeeding challenges.

Parents-to-be and new parents should invest in early breastfeeding support from an LC. Early support can mitigate some of the challenges with breastfeeding because of the knowledge and skills they can learn, early on.

I recommend LC support within the first 5 days of a baby’s life to build confidence, feel reassured and know what’s normal and what is a concern with their new baby.

I believe that every mother can learn to experience feeding her baby with confidence, with comfort and with mindfulness.

Being a first time mom is quite a challenge, how can we involve our partners in this journey ?

I have met hundreds of new parents. There are partners that are incredibly supportive and there are partners who would like to be supportive but don’t know how.

Historically, women from the family and friends would gather to support a new mother. In modern times, partners and fathers are often very invested in helping and supporting because Partners have a unique insight into the new Mama’s strengths and weaknesses, tolerance for pain and often mental health concerns.

I encourage all partners to actively learn about breastfeeding with Mama by attending classes and reaching out to professionals who can help.  New partners are also encouraged to be skin to skin with their baby, especially in the early first days of life, when Mama needs a rest between feeds to promote relaxation and security for their newborn.

Besides being a lactation consultant and nurse you also teach CPR courses, can you please develop as why is this knowledge so important in our everyday life?

In my 22 year career as a Registered Nurse my area of expertise has been focused on the needs of new families and teaching new parents skills. 

I became a CPR Instructor because I believe that learning these valuable life-saving skills increases confidence and awareness, not only for new parents, but also for everyone.

Practicing important skills such as CPR, using an AED and Choking sequences are designed to provide anyone with the confidence needed to respond to emergency situations.

Do you have any other words of wisdom you would like to share ?

Reach out for help early on!!!

It takes ALL new mothers a good 6 weeks to feel like breastfeeding is well established and post-partum healing is returning to normal. 

It’s important for new mothers NOT to compare their situation to someone else as each Mum and baby is so unique and special.  
To remember that they are not alone!!!

There is support available to help a new Mama feel empowered no matter how baby is being fed. 

My passion is to support new parents with these concerns, answer your questions and offer practical skills and individualized care to achieve your breastfeeding goals.

Thank you SO much for sharing your time and expertise with us, Debby!

I know you’ll continue to help mamas across the country to feel more confident and successful in their breastfeeding journeys.

Do you still have other breastfeeding related questions ?

WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT DEBBY?

This Interview with a Kinesiologist and also Clinical Exercise Physiologist is with Alex Burnaru R.Kin, CSEP-CEP, High Performance Specialization (CSEP) where he answers questions about health, fitness, and balancing it all.

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Hi, Alex Thanks so much for taking the time to do this interview. I know our readers will enjoy it.

1.Can you introduce yourself and describe what you do to our readers?

I am a Registered Kinesiologist through the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario and I hold a certification as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist (CSEP). I work with the Canadian Armed Forces as a Physical Exercise Specialist in a rehabilitation/reconditioning role and I am responsible for supporting ill or injured military members’ return to duty.

Aside from my professional role with the CAF, I offer kinesiology and fitness services through my personal business, Dacian Fitness. Ultimately, I consider myself a registered kinesiologist and a healthcare provider, promoting exercise as medicine each and every day.

2.What does a typical day or week of fitness look like in your life and where do you get inspired from ?

I have long ago prioritized training and fitness in my life, therefore my habits have been solidified by now and I rarely have days when I do not train or do physical activity.

In terms of what I do or how much, it all depends on my short and long-term goals at that point…but typically I enjoy a variety of training modes: strength training whether it’s lifting heavy or working out with my own body weight, cardiovascular training, I particularly enjoy outdoor training, like stair climbing and hill running, yoga, etc.

I have been practicing martial arts like kyokushin karate and kickboxing for 20+ years and I thoroughly enjoy this type of training on a regular basis.

Regarding inspiration, as mentioned initially, I have been training/exercising for most of my life without any significant breaks, therefore I potentially require less daily inspiration than the average person, due to my ingrained habits; but I always strive to set achievable long and short-term goals in order to maintain a certain level of motivation.

My professional role also requires me to be fit and lead by example, which can be inspiring in itself.

I always strive to set achievable long and short-term goals in order to maintain a certain level of motivation.

3.How do you find balance in your teaching, training and personal life ?

Balance is something that I have always emphasized on my journey.

I am lucky and grateful to combine my passion with my career, which allows for a smoother transition from work to my own training and to family life. They all intertwine and complement each other, although I purposefully aim to create healthy boundaries between work time and family time/personal life.

Ultimately, my family’s lifestyle revolves around planning healthy activities together, whether it’s outdoor family runs, long hikes, strength training, etc. My wife is also a kinesiologist and we consistently support each other and our son’s development through physical activity and an overall balanced lifestyle, even if we set performance-oriented goals that require more sacrifice, dedication, and time. Supporting each other is key to achieving success with fitness and health goals.

4.How would you describe your philosophy on health and fitness?

Although my philosophy on health and fitness can be a bit more complex, I usually provide the same message to my clients, which is the essence of my professional recommendation: success in fitness for most people comes down to performing simple, basic, time-tested exercises with acceptable form, but more importantly, CONSISTENTLY.

Ultimately, consistency doesn’t mean doing a 30-day challenge or going to the gym every day for 6 months; real, long-lasting results will come from years and years of consistent work. This is why the word “lifestyle” has so much value and relevance in the context of fitness and wellness goals.

5.What foods would be your favorite picks also pre and post workout meals ?

I do not recommend specific foods as I do not think my professional background or personal interest recommend me for it.
That is not to say that I am not interested in nutrition or I do not think it is important. On the contrary. I simply do not believe in the importance of eating certain prescribed foods, but a variety of foods from all food groups.

I believe in and recommend balance, a healthy relationship with food, not succumbing to extremes but allowing yourself to explore and enjoy while following basic, sound, and evidence-based principles of nutrition: a proper distribution of macro-nutrients which might be slightly different between the average active person and the performance endurance or strength athlete, an understanding of the quality and quantity of caloric requirements for one’s needs, and, most importantly, an emphasis on whole, non-processed foods.

Pre/post workout meals/snacks are important and different depending on one’s goals and type of workout performed for example: aerobic versus anaerobic.

Our bodies are connected and in constant communication with our minds, which requires a holistic approach to bettering the lifestyle habits that make up who we are.

6.Any other thoughts or advice in regards to a healthy lifestyle achieved through your line of work?

Although I briefly discussed my philosophy on health and fitness, highlighting the importance of consistency and simplicity, I do recognize that personal goal specificity requires an individualized approach to exercise prescription, nutrition, sleep, and stress management.

Addressing these four pillars of total health is recommended (and, many times, paramount!) when attempting to achieve fitness, performance, or rehabilitation goals.

Our bodies are connected and in constant communication with our minds, which requires a holistic approach to bettering the lifestyle habits that make up who we are.

Many times, our bodies will improve only if our minds improve (through stress management, meditation, mindfulness, etc.) and vice-versa through better sleep, good food choices and an improved relationship with food, and higher levels of quality physical activity. This is a circular continuum and a feedback loop that can be either positive or negative, depending on our choices.

Ultimately, my recommendation is to set realistic goals, start with simple/manageable changes focused on the four pillars of health mentioned above, commit to a progressive action plan, and stay consistent on your path long-term.

Thank you so much to Alex for taking the time to do this Interview post.

Do you have any additional questions for Alex ? Let us know in the comments below!

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Really liked what Alex had to say in our Interview with a Kinesiologist? Contact and Hire him!