HealthyNS

Comprehensive information about staying well, prevention and living a healthy life with chronic conditions

HealthyNS Online Wellness Programs

HealthyNS provides free online health and wellness classes for residents of Nova Scotia! Topic areas include Self-Management, Reducing Your Health Risks, Healthy Eating, Physical Activity, Mental Wellness and Parenting. Most programs are for adults who are 18 years and older, but there are specific programs for youth. Classes are developed and facilitated by experienced health care professionals from either Nova Scotia Health or IWK Health. And the best part? You don’t need a Doctor or Nurse Practitioner referral to join a program, anyone can sign up!

To register for a class, you will need to provide your Nova Scotia health card number. The classes are held online using "Zoom for Healthcare". Learn more about these classes in this video.

To register below, click the blue "Register Online" button, then pick a class date and time. If you can’t find a time that works for you, you have the option to complete some classes at your own convenience by clicking on the blue “Self-Directed Module” button.

Health and wellness program resources for Spring and Summer 2024:

Self-Management: Virtual Programs

Health Goal Coaching

Do you want to be healthier, but find it hard to make changes? You're not alone! It's not always enough to know what to do to be healthier. Making a plan and setting realistic goals can help you be more successful. If you want to learn how to do this, meet with a Health Goal Coach, and together, you can work on turning your ideas into a plan that you can follow.

This program builds on the skills learned in the Ideas into Action program and provides you with an opportunity to meet one-on-one with a healthcare provider (your health goal coach) to get extra support in setting and achieving your goals. You can sign up for a 'live' version of Ideas into Action or view the Self-Directed Module, both linked below.

Register online or call 1-855-444-5557 and your health goal coach will contact you to book an appointment.

Register Online


Ideas into Action. Small Steps, Big Success!

Having difficulty reaching your health goals? Join this live session to learn the process of creating realistic and achievable goals to live your healthiest life.

  • Thursday March 7:   6pm - 7:15pm
  • Tuesday May 28:   2pm - 3:15pm
  • Thursday June 27:   6pm - 7:15pm

Register Online

Don't have time to attend a live session? Click on the button below to view an interactive recording of this session.

Self-Directed Module


Keeping it Going with your Health Goals

It's normal to face obstacles when trying to stay on track with your health goals. This session is designed to help you keep going and stick to your goals. Register for this session after you have attended Ideas Into Action.

  • Thursday April 4:   6pm - 7:15pm
  • Tuesday June 18:   2pm - 3:15pm

Register Online

Don't have time for a live session? Click on the button below to view an interactive recording of this session after you have attended or viewed the session Ideas into Action. Small Steps. Big Success!

Self-Directed Module


Let’s Talk: Teens Building Their Healthcare Skills
Supporting Health Management for Youth with a Chronic Health Condition NEW

This webinar is for parents/caregivers and their youth who have a health condition. You’ll hear from youth who have transitioned to the adult health care system. We’ll talk about why it’s helpful to start talking about transition to adult care early, what self-management means and steps you can take to build your healthcare skills.

  • Friday April 5: 12:00 - 1:00

Register Online


Advance Care Planning and Personal Directives

Are you interested in preparing yourself and your loved ones for the future? Do you have life insurance? A will or power of attorney? There is another kind of insurance you can have, that costs nothing and helps ensure that your medical and personal care wishes are respected.

The goal of this session is to explore what advance care planning is and what to include when creating a personal directive.

  • March 19, 2024 1-3pm
  • May 22, 2024 6-8pm
  • June 19, 2024 1-3pm

Register Online


Time Management & Well-being

Learning how to better manage your time can help you accomplish your goals. This self-directed module introduces time management skills that you can use in your life.

  • Friday June 7:   10am - 11:30am

Register Online

Don't have time for a live session? Click on the button below to view an interactive recording of this session.

Self-Directed Module


Reducing Your Health Risks: Virtual Programs

Actionable Allyship NEW

This workshop will help to increase your awareness of what prideHealth does and how we support both our community and Nova Scotia Health staff. We will dig deeper into how you can be an actionable ally for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. We will answer questions about gender affirming care, creating safer spaces, supporting children and youth, and provide training and resources on how to use gender inclusive language/pronouns.

  • Monday April 8: 2:00 - 3:15pm
  • Tuesday June 4: 6:00 - 7:15pm

Register Online


Aging Well: Let's Talk About Frailty

Are you or someone you know at risk for frailty? Join this session to learn about what frailty is, how it impacts your health, and practical tips to stay strong and healthy as you grow older.

  • Wednesday February 28:   6 - 7:15pm
  • Wednesday April 3:   10 - 11:15am
  • Friday May 24:   2 - 3:15pm
  • Tuesday June 11:   6 - 7:15pm

Register Online


Building Better Sleep NEW

Do you ever wonder how you could get a better night's sleep? How well you sleep can make a difference in how you live your life. Join us for a discussion on how to promote better sleep in your life.

  • Monday May 6: 6:00 - 7:15pm
  • Thursday July 25: 10:00 - 11:15am

Register Online


COPD Care and Education Program Info Session NEW

Are you interested in learning how to live well with COPD? This program focuses on self-management skills and activities, such as getting tested for COPD, adopting healthy behaviors to support lung health, and developing a personal directive.

  • Thursday April 18: 2:00 - 3:30pm
  • Wednesday May 22: 2:00 - 3:30pm

Register Online


Falls Prevention NEW

Did you know that most falls are preventable? In this program we will talk about how to prevent slips, trips, and falls so you can keep enjoying the fun things in life. We are going to discuss how to move your body, improve your health and remove hazard in your home.

  • Monday April 15: 2:00 - 3:30pm
  • Thursday June 27: 10:00 - 11:30am

Register Online


Oral Health and Swallowing Wellness: The Key to Eating Well as You Age NEW

Did you know that 1 in 5 seniors have difficulty eating and swallowing? Maintaining your ability to eat your favorite foods is important for staying healthy as you age. In this program you will learn how your oral health, physical health, and swallowing are connected, and steps you can take to maintain your swallowing ability well into the future.

  • Wednesday May 1: 2:00 - 3:15pm
  • Wednesday June 5: 10:00 - 11:15am

Register Online


Prediabetes - 3 Week Program

Join our online Prediabetes program to understand what it means when your blood sugars are above the normal range and you have a potential risk of developing diabetes. Discover the power of lifestyle choices, empowering you to take control of your future and make positive changes for a healthier life.

  • Fridays, April 5, 12, 19: 12:00 - 1:15pm
  • Tuesdays, May 7, 14, 21: 2:00 - 3:15pm
  • Thursdays, June 6, 13, 20: 6:00 - 7:15pm
  • Tuesdays, June 25, July 2 and 9: 10:00 - 11:15am

Register Online


Understanding Pain - 3 Week Program

This series will explain how the pain system works. You will learn how the body changes with chronic pain. You will also learn about the factors affecting pain, and real ways to manage your pain.

Attendance the first week of the series is required.

  • Wednesdays, March 27, April 3 and 10   6:00 - 7:15pm
  • Fridays, May 24 and 31, June 7   12:00 - 1:15pm

Register Online


Healthy Eating: Virtual Programs

Beginners Guide to Plant-Based Eating

Are you interested in making plant-based meals but you are unsure where to start? In this session we define plant-based eating as a pattern that emphasizes mostly plant foods: vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. In this session, we will explore the benefits of plant-based eating and how to incorporate plant foods in your diet in a simple and cost-effective way.

  • Monday March 25: 12:00 - 1:15pm
  • Wednesday May 8: 2:00 - 3:15pm

Register Online


Craving Change® (6 Week Program) NEW

Ever wonder why you eat the way you do? Craving Change® explores how your emotions and environment affect your food choices and offers tools and tips to help you make healthier eating choices.

  • Thursdays, April 11, 18, 25 and May 2, 9, 16: 6:00 - 8:00pm

Register Online


Explore the Mediterranean Diet - 2 Week Program

Interested in lowering your risk of heart disease, Alzheimer's, and diabetes? Learn how you can improve your health by following the Mediterranean way of eating. Attendance the first week of the series is required.

  • Wednesdays, April 17 and 24: 2:00 - 3:15pm
  • Wednesdays, May 15 and 22: 6:00 - 7:15pm
  • Fridays, June 14 and 21: 10:00 - 11:15am

Register Online


Healthy Eating 101

If you're feeling confused about where to start, we've got you covered with easy-to-follow basics from Canada's Food Guide, helping you make informed choices for a balanced and nourishing diet.

  • Tuesday April 23: 2:00 - 3:30pm
  • Wednesday June 12: 2:00 - 3:30pm

Register Online


Introduction to Beyond Weight

Have you ever been told what your weight should be? The truth is, your weight is a lot more complex than a number on a scale. In this session we will explore the many factors that influence weight, expectations for weight loss, and strategies to support your health and wellness into the future.

  • Monday March 18: 1:30 - 3pm
  • Monday May 27: 6:00 - 7:30pm

Register Online


Beyond Weight. Shifting Focus to Health - 11 Week Program

This program supports you to shift focus away from weight as a measure of your health. In this interactive, virtual group we will explore how to make lasting change in the areas of nutrition, physical activity and mental well-being. We will discuss the complexities of weight and learn strategies to support change.

This program does not focus on “dieting” and individualized meal plans will not be provided. Each week you will set your own goals and make a plan to achieve them. All participants will receive an intake call prior to the start of the program to ensure this is the right program for you.

Please note: Introduction to Beyond Weight is NOT a prerequisite to attend this program.

  • Tuesday April 9: 12:00 - 1pm

Register Online


Making the Most of Your Food Dollar

Learn how to get more value and nutrition from your food dollar. You will receive recipes and resources to help you organize, plan and prepare healthy low-cost dishes at home.

  • Monday April 29: 6:00 - 7:15pm
  • Wednesday June 5: 2:00 - 3:15pm
  • Monday July 8: 12:00 - 1:15pm

Register Online


Meal Planning and Recipe Inspiration NEW

Meal planning can seem intimidating, and it can be hard to know where to start. Learn about the foundations for successful meal planning and leave with a plan that is flexible and realistic for you. You will receive a worksheet to help make a meal plan and a recipe booklet to start you on your journey.

  • Wednesday June 26: 12:00 - 1:15pm
  • Monday August 26: 12:00 - 1:15pm

Register Online


Physical Activity: Virtual Programs

Physical Activity Counselling 

Discover how physical activity can help you improve your health and manage chronic (ongoing) conditions. Physical activity counselling empowers you to make long-lasting improvements to your physical activity levels. Sign up for a spot below to meet one-on-one with our Clinical Exercise Physiologist/ Kinesiologist (specialist in human body movement). Together, you will create a personalized plan to help you meet your physical activity goals.

Once we receive your registration, we'll email you a zoom link for you to join at your appointment time. We recommend zoom for this service but can offer this over the phone. If this is your preference email us at HealthyNS@nshealth.ca or leave a message on our voicemail at 1-855-444-5557.

Register Online


Ready, Set, Move - Introduction to Cardio

Learn the Canadian Guidelines for how much exercise you need to realise health benefits. We will discuss simple techniques on how to safely increase your intensity with no equipment.

  • Monday May 13: 6:00 - 7:15pm

Register Online


Ready, Set, Move - Strengthening

Do you want to improve your strength but are not sure where to start? This session will teach you safe ways to do strengthening exercises, use different types of equipment, and how to progress with these exercises on your own. You will NOT be exercising in this session.

  • Tuesday April 9: 2:00 - 3:30pm
  • Tuesday June 18: 6:00 - 7:15pm

Register Online


Ready, Set, Move - Stretching and Balance

Learn the basic techniques of stretching and balance exercises so you can do these at home. You will NOT be exercising in this session.

  • Monday April 22: 2:00 - 3:15pm

Register Online


Mindful Movement NEW

Mindful Movement blends physical activity with mindfulness, focusing on awareness and presence during gentle movement. It aims to connect mind and body, improving physical and mental well-being.

  • Tuesday April 16: 2:00 - 3:30pm
  • Wednesday May 29: 6:00 - 7:30pm

Register Online


Move More for Better Health

Our bodies were designed to move and that can be challenging. Learn about the impact on our health from too much sitting and share ways to move more in our homes, neighborhoods, and communities.

  • Monday March 25:   10:00 - 11:15am
  • Tuesday August 20:   10:00 - 11:15am

Register Online


The Truth about Weight and Exercise - 2 Week Program

In this two part series you will learn the facts about weight loss and exercise. We will discuss different types of exercise and their role in your health, in weight loss, and in maintaining good health. Learn tips to be active at any size. You will NOT exercise in this program.

Attendance in the first week of the series is required.

  • Thursday May 23: 2:00pm - 3:15pm

Register Online


Pregnancy and Exercise

Physical activity throughout pregnancy promotes maternal, fetal, and neonatal health. Click on the button below to watch a video from Nova Scotia Health's Community Health Teams who will guide you through a self-directed exercise routine.

Video


Mental Wellness: Virtual Programs

Discover Your Strengths NEW

We all have the same 24 character strengths that we express in different ways. Together, we will discuss character strengths, how to recognize them in ourselves and others, and learn the benefits of using them in life.

  • Tuesday March 19: 6:00 - 7:30pm

Register Online


Exploring Emotions (4 Week Program) NEW

In this program, you will learn how to identify emotions and develop skills to respond effectively to a range of emotions. Attendance the first week of the series is required.

  • Tuesdays, April 9, 16, 23, 30: 6:00 - 8:00pm

Register Online


Free Time and You

Leisure and recreation can have a big impact on our health and wellbeing. There are ways you can connect with things that interest you and experience enjoyment. Join us to explore strategies and resources to make the most of your free time!

  • Thursday August 22: 12:00 - 1:15pm

Register Online


Introduction to Self-Compassion

Being self-compassionate can help provide us comfort, improved health and increase our sense of satisfaction in our roles. Join us to practice ways to promote self-compassion when we experience difficulties in our everyday lives.

  • Thursday, July 11: 12:00 - 1:00pm

Register Online


Self-Compassion - 4 Week Program

Being self-compassionate can help provide us comfort, improved health, and increase our sense of satisfaction in our roles. Join us to dive deeper and practise ways to promote self-compassion when we experience difficulties in our everyday lives. This program builds in concepts and practice over time. Attendance the first week of the series is required.

  • Fridays, April 26, May 3, 10, and 17: 10:00am - 12:00pm

Register Online


Introduction to Take Charge of Your Stress

In this program you will learn about stress, explore how you experience stress, and practise skills you can use to reduce stress symptoms.

  • Friday, May 31: 10:00 - 11:30am
  • Tuesday July 16: 2:00 - 3:30pm

Register Online


Take Charge of Your Stress - 4 Week Program

Stress can have significant impacts on our health and well-being. Together we will learn about stress, explore how we experience stress, and practise a variety of skills you can use to reduce stress symptoms. Attendance the first week of the series is required.

Please note: the class Introduction to Take Charge of Your Stress is NOT a pre-requisite to attend this program.

  • Mondays, June 3, 10, 17, and 24: 10:00am - 12:00pm

Register Online


Talking About Grief NEW

Grief is a completely normal response to loss, and yet it can be one of the most difficult human experiences. This session will provide the opportunity to learn more about grief, including resources and supports that are available to you.

  • Friday March 22: 2:00 - 3:30pm
  • Tuesday May 14: 6:00 - 7:30pm

Register Online


Parenting: Virtual Programs (IWK)

Incredible Years - School Age - 12 Week Program

This program focuses on improving your child's social and emotional skills and reducing behaviour problems. The program is for parents of children who are 6-12 years old.

  • Wednesday March 27: 6:00 - 8:00pm

Register Online


Parenting Your Teen: Walking the Middle Path (6 Week Program)

Learn to better understand your teen, improve communication and help your family run more smoothly.

  • Wednesday April 10: 5:00 - 6:30pm

Register Online


My Child is Anxious. Should I Worry? - 2 Week Program

Learn how to identify early signs of anxious feelings in your children, and develop skills to help them manage everyday anxiety. For parents and caregivers of children up to 12 years old.

  • Thursdays, July 11 and 18: 10:00am - 12:00pm

Register Online


Self-Compassion for Parents

Parenting is a difficult job. Self-compassion can help provide us comfort, improve health and increase our parenting satisfaction. Join us to practice ways to promote self-compassion when we experience difficulties in our everyday lives.

  • Tuesday July 9: 12:00 - 1:00pm

Register Online


Pregnancy and Exercise

Before you watch this self-directed exercise video, read the Pregnancy and Exercise Handout below for further information about the benefits and risks associated with exercising while pregnant. You will also learn how to set exercise goals for yourself and find links to other exercise resources.

Pregnancy and Exercise

Nova Scotia Health, 2022.


Thank you for watching this video and reading the accompanying handout. We want to hear about your experience so we can improve. Please take a few moments to complete our survey. The information collected in this survey is anonymous (does not identify you) and confidential.

Take Survey

Learning Objectives - Online Wellness Programs