A new talk by Dr. Blake Pearson, titled “Revitalize and Restore: Embracing Cannabis, Cold Water Therapy, Sauna, and Meditation for Active Aging,” will focus on practical strategies to improve not just how long we live, but the quality of those years. As Dr. Pearson puts it, "It's about health span as opposed to lifespan," emphasizing the importance of maintaining health and vitality throughout life.
Dr. Pearson has a background as a family physician but has spent the last decade specializing in the use of CBD/THC to manage various conditions, including chemotherapy-induced nausea, multiple sclerosis (MS), rare epilepsy syndromes, autism, and dementia in long-term care settings. “That’s my clinical background, but I’m now integrating therapies like cold water and sauna to help more people in the community adopt these practices,” he says.
His talk, scheduled for Thursday, November 7, at St. Giles Church in Sarnia, will delve into the benefits of meditation, sauna, and cold water therapy.
Dr. Pearson notes that there is a growing shift in medicine from a reactive approach, where conditions are treated after they develop, to a more proactive focus on prevention. “We need to prevent rather than just treat,” he explains, emphasizing the role of proper nutrition, exercise, and therapies like sauna and cold water in stopping diseases like hypertension before they start.
The talk is designed for everyone, regardless of age, as the tools and approaches Dr. Pearson discusses can benefit people at any stage of life, particularly in terms of mental and physical wellness. "It’s for adults, young adults, and the elderly," he adds.
While Sarnia doesn’t currently have a dedicated cold water pool, Dr. Pearson is in discussions with the Ontario Health Team about securing funding for cold tubs and a sauna to make these resources more accessible. “Those things are pretty expensive,” he notes, emphasizing the need for a community resource for those unable to afford them. In the meantime, he points out that Lake Huron offers a natural alternative for those wanting to try cold water therapy in nature.
He advises consulting a healthcare provider before attempting a cold plunge, particularly for those with heart conditions. “It’s important to ensure your heart can handle it,” he notes.
He is excited to share these natural health approaches, noting that chronic diseases are often diagnosed "when it’s almost too late," and reminding people that now is the perfect time to take proactive steps for better health.
Here’s the formatted event details:
Event Details:
What: Revitalize and Restore: Embracing Cannabis, Cold Water Therapy, Sauna, and Meditation for Active Aging
When: Thursday, November 7, 2024, 7 p.m.
Where: St. Giles Presbyterian Church, 770 Lakeshore Road