The Athenaeum

Category: Sports & Wellness

  • Orgasmic Oral

    Orgasmic Oral

    Fellatio, cunnilingus, and analingus: isn’t that a mouthful! All are technical terms for titillating tongue teasers. You may colloquially know these as “giving head,” “going down,” “rimming,” or a whole host of other oral sex descriptors. No matter what you call it, oral sex provides a variety of ways to give and receive satisfaction. However, before we discuss the more pleasurable side of these acts, let us touch on willingness, reciprocity, and health. As with any sexual interaction, all participants must be one hundred percent willing to partake at all times, and if any member wishes to take a break or stop they should not be penalized. Oral sex should be something you look forward to giving, receiving, and thinking about. If you don’t want to do it, then don’t do it. Likewise, oral should be something that is reciprocated. If you are regularly going down on your partner they should be willing to return the favour. If, for some reason, this is not the case, have a frank and open discussion with your partner as to why. Perhaps it is not something they are willing to do, in which case you must respect their wishes. However, make sure to work out an equally enjoyable action that they can perform on you, as all parties should be satisfied after each sexual encounter. If your partner is unwilling to perform oral sex for a reason other than a personal non-negotiable boundary, discuss with them how you can work through this. Maybe they find oral sex unappealing because of the smell or taste. If so, bathe the area prior to intercourse. This can be done solo or together as a fun, playful, and erotic prelude to foreplay. If your partner is unsure how to perform oral sex discuss with them what you would like. Have them try different methods on you while you provide judgment-free feedback during and after the event. Oral sex should be fun for everyone, and you can always experiment to incorporate new actions into your repertoire.

    As with any sexual activity, awareness of associated health issues is paramount. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be transmitted orally from mouth to the genitals/anus and vice versa. The most commonly transmitted oral-genital/anal STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, human papillomavirus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). To protect yourself and your partners from STI transmission, always have an open and honest conversation about STIs prior to engaging in any sexual act. Use a condom, dental dam or other barrier method. Get regular STI testing. If you are participating in analingus, remember that STI transmission to the genitals is a possibility, and many bacterial diseases are also passed on via the fecal-oral route. This risk can be reduced by washing the anal region prior to oral, using a dental dam or other barrier method, and avoiding performing unprotected fellatio or cunnilingus immediately afterwards.

    Once you have taken willingness, reciprocity, and health into consideration, you can proceed to give and receive fellatio, cunnilingus, and analingus. After oral intercourse you can sanitize the oral cavity by rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash or oral antiseptic. However, use caution if brushing your teeth immediately after, as the bristles may cause small cuts in your gums, permitting contaminant transmission. Now, let’s get down to this orgasmic oration on oral intercourse.

    Fellatio (from the Latin fellāre, to suck) is the technical term for blowjob. Have you ever wondered why it’s called a blowjob? Although there is no one reliable etymology, many competing reasons abound. “Blowjob” could be a derivation of the 1940s jazz expression “to blow,” meaning to play an instrument with some skill using the mouth. Further, it could be a holdover from the Victorian-era, when the slang term for prostitute was “blowsy,” and slang for blowjob was “below-job.” Over time these terms evolved into today’s blowjob. It could also have come about as a facetious use of “blow” as the opposite of “suck,” or as a descriptor of the volcanic final result. Whatever the route, the expression was in colloquial use by the 1950s. Much of the confusion surrounding this term comes from the action itself. Fellatio rarely, if ever, involves blowing. More often, giving head consists of one partner sucking the penis of another. As every individual has their own personal preference, make sure to discuss with your partner how they would like to be pleasured, and always have fun with your actions. Remember, swallowing is a personal choice, and if you don’t feel comfortable doing so, don’t.

    Cunnilingus (from the Latin words cunnus, vulva, and lingua, tongue) is a less frequently discussed form of oral sex. Also known as “eating out,” cunnilingus involves oral stimulation of the vulva (consisting of the clitoris, labia, and vaginal canal). If you want to be a cunning linguist, keep in mind that 18% of women prefer oral to achieve orgasm and 75% of women require direct clitoral stimulation to reach orgasm. The clitoris has 8,000 nerve endings on the glans alone (in comparison the penis has 4,000), which connect to a network of 15,000 nerve endings in the pelvic region. Over three-fourths of the clitoral body is internal, although stimulation can occur via contact with the external glans, located under the clitoral hood. If you are unsure where to start try the “alphabet technique.” This method involves writing out the alphabet with your tongue on the vulva, focusing on and around the clitoris. Repeat any letters your partner enjoys, and pay attention to their body language and vocalizations for feedback. As with any sexual act, communication is key. Ask what your partner does and does not like, have them tell you what to do next, and let them physically direct your movements by either moving their hips against you or placing their hand on your head. As no two women are the same, make sure you are in constant communication with your partner in regards to speed and pressure. Due to the hypersensitivity of an aroused clitoris (remember those nerve endings and pelvic neural networks) start with a gentle caress of the area, working up to harder more direct stimulation as arousal builds. Keep in mind that some sensations may be too strong, and always be willing to decrease the pressure.

    Analingus (from the Latin anus, ring, and lingere, to lick), commonly referred to as “rimming” or “salad tossing,” is an oral-anal sex act in which one partner’s mouth, lips or tongue contact the anus or perineum (space between the ass and genitals) of another. As with any act, analingus requires discussion with your partner prior to engagement. If your partner is willing to try analingus, but decides during the act that it is not for them, respect their wishes and do not pressure them to continue. If you are practicing analingus always clean the area thoroughly with soap and water prior to any oral contact, as many bacterial diseases are passed on via the fecal-oral route. Internal cleansing can be preformed, but is not required. If you will be cleansing internally make sure you are aware of all health and safety concerns associated with this practice. External preparations can involve pubic hair maintenance, however this is a personal preference, as no one has the right to tell you how to treat your body. Nonetheless, hair-back-there can trap fecal particles, leading to potential health risks for your partner. If you are expecting a rim job, trim, shave, or wax the area prior to engagement. If this is just not your style, make sure you give the area an extra thorough clean, and do not be offended if you partner declines to participate. Protective layers, such as dental dams or a condom cut in half, can help prevent the spread of infection, intestinal parasites, bacteria, viruses, or diseases. Always remember to sterilize anything that has been in contact with the anal region prior to placing it into or near the vaginal canal. Failure to do so could lead to vaginal bacterial infections, such as vaginitis and cystitis. Once the requisite health concerns have been appropriately addressed, try slowly working your way towards to anal region and gently separate the glutes for easier access. As with any sex act, there is no one successful formula. Communicate with your partner about what they like, show your enthusiasm, and, most importantly, enjoy!

    Fellatio, cunnilingus, and analingus. Willingness, reciprocity, and health. Good things come in threes and now, so can you.

  • Athlete Assassins: A Story & A Challenge

    Athlete Assassins: A Story & A Challenge

    I’d like to believe that I’ve coined the three P’s of a successful assassination career; perseverance, patience, and a slight case of pantophobia (a fear of literally everything).

    The sun had long since fallen and the dark winter night was in full effect. That was alright because all we needed was the Hunter’s Moon shining down to identify the target. Actually that’s not true. The sub-par conditions made it very difficult to identify the target. Our only source of identification was a dated prom picture, which provided very little information on what she actually looked like. With that being said, we figured we’d take a different approach and go for the ole’ classic deer in the headlights strategy. In hindsight, it was definitely not the most effective approach, but definitely the most fun way to do it. We had waited over an hour in the car, due to some poor planning on our part and some misinformation. Lesson number one, always double check your sources. I don’t think we would have made it through the wait if it weren’t for the old-school 50 Cent pumping through the aux chord – didn’t hate it, didn’t love it. It was a gangsta-given source of false confidence, enough for us to yell at any potential target out of our car window. I mean, think about it: we didn’t have a positive ID and who isn’t going to react strangely to their first and last name being yelled from an unknown car in the dark of the night by a group of idiots with a megaphone? No one.

    Lesson number two, designate a chase song. Our personal favorite was the Pirates of the Caribbean theme song, as it gets your heart beating a little bit. Also, if you can round up a hit-man crew, it makes the job a lot easier. Our first strike went super smooth. We saw our potential target walking up from the gym – go time. Our song comes on full blast, megaphone on, windows down, and the driver stalls putting us into first, fantastic. The first flaw in the deer in the headlights approach is that even if it’s not the right person everyone gets slightly terrified when approached by obnoxiously loud strangers. Sorry. Back to our stalking zone in the parking lot. I will admit with red cheeks that we frightened about three or four more parties before we found our target. We were weirdos of the night for sure.

    To my surprise, the girl who didn’t react to our hooting and hollering turned out to be the target. If they know you’re coming, they won’t be scared of the mighty megaphone. Lesson number 3, always stay two steps ahead of the game. After the odd interaction with the un-phased target, we knew that we’d been tricked. Bee-line straight back up to residence to corner them going in. Hope was not all lost, but it was definitely waning at that point. I was wiping off beads of sweat with the rolled up pair of socks, red Adidas – never miss. “Next in importance to having good aim is knowing when to pull the trigger.” –David Letterman. The next few seconds were a blur in my memory, but I swear the sock made contact before her foot landed in her dorm room. Another kill down for the count.

    I learned a lot from that first hunt, and they’ve become much less problematic since. Boasting a kill count higher than Dal’s fake fraternity, and with a taste of blood on my tongue, the body count will be going up exponentially. Watch out athletes.

  • Good Vibrations

    Good Vibrations

    Buzz. Buzz. Buzz. Whether incorporated into solo or partner based play, vibrators have been causing a buzz for years. Today’s vibrators are easy to purchase, come in a variety of colours, shapes, materials, and sizes, and are popularly endorsed by many TV shows. However, things weren’t always this way.

    Historically, vibrators were created as a “cure for women’s hysteria.” This diagnosis was given to almost any ailment, including insomnia and nervousness. Early vibes were large steam-powered massage machines, and their invention came about when Victorian-era doctors tired of providing manual stimulation to female patients to cure them of “hysterical paroxysms.” At a time when female sexuality was a taboo topic, this “pelvic massage” method was simply viewed by doctors as a medical cure, with no sexual connotations. The pelvic massage method of relief was so popular and effective that it was only a matter of time before smaller hand-cranked mechanical and electrical vibrators were unveiled for home use, thus making the vibrator the fifth electrical appliance introduced to the home (after the sewing machine, fan, tea kettle, and toaster).

    A climate heavy with denial surrounding female sexuality may not seem ideal for vibrator sales, however it was strangely beneficial. Vibrator usage was viewed as a medical treatment, creating an atmosphere that led women to feel comfortable purchasing and using their vibrator in the comfort and privacy of their home. However, this outlook was not to last forever. In the 1920s pornography started to feature “personal massagers” and vibrators, and the jig was up. Vibrators, which had previously been available for purchase anywhere by anyone, disappeared from store shelves.

    Despite a lack of availability, women were not deterred. During this time electric toothbrush sales soared, and by the 1950s vibrating massagers for woman became popular for everything from spot reducers to weight loss. Once more women could buy vibrators without reproach, and by the 1960’s feminists reintroduced the vibrator as a symbol of female sexuality. From the 1980’s onwards vibrator sales have buzzed along, and today, approximately 52% of Canadian woman report having used a vibrator. In fact, with vibrators available on the shelves of Wal-Mart and Shoppers, easy and discreet purchasing available online, and a wide variety of sex shops in most cities, purchase has never been easier.

    However, what if you fall in the 48% who have never used a vibrator? Perhaps you are just not comfortable with the idea, you never knew how to go about purchasing one, or you never thought of the variety of mental and physical benefits often associated with vibrator use. Victorian-era doctors prescribing sexual stimulation as a cure for hysteria might actually have been onto something. A 2009 study found that the 52 percent of American women who used a vibrator tended to be physically and psychologically healthier than those who didn’t.

    So, you want to know what the buzz is all about. If you’re a vibrator newbie, the first step is to determine which one is right for you. If you are worried about discretion, vibrators are available in a wide range of non-assuming shapes, such as rubber ducks, lipstick tubes, and shower loofas. For your first vibrator look for one offering an external stimulation feature, as 75% of women achieve orgasm through clitoral stimulation. In fact, 84% of users rely on their vibe for this purpose. Look for something relatively small, with different speeds or settings, and the ability to be recharged or have the batteries changed out. Although the temptation is to go cheap (and I would advise not buying the most expensive vibe out there your first time in the saddle), keep in mind that cheaper products are often lower quality, leading to a shorter product lifespan.

    As you increase your comfort level, perhaps try a G-spot penetration vibrator. Penetrative vibes can be purchased to provide internal and external stimulation, and come in a variety of shapes for use with your partner. If shopping for a vibrator primarily for penetration-based play, look for one that is smooth (without any painful sharp edges) and made of a material that won’t absorb bodily fluids. If you are using your toy for penetration, keep in mind oil-based lubes are not sex toy friendly, and silicone-based lubes shouldn’t be used with silicone-based toys. However, silicone-based lubes do work well with harder material toys, such as hard plastics, aluminum, or steel. If unsure, your best bet is water-based lubricants, as these are safe for use with silicone-based toys and latex condoms.

    As mentioned, vibrators need not only be used solo. Try using one on your partner, or have them use one on you. Vibrating cock-rings can be a fun hands-free option, and cheap ones are available in local drug stores. Vibrating nipple clamps can also be purchased for added stimulation during play. Next time you’re in Halifax, check out Venus Envy, which carries a wide variety of toys. If you’re uncomfortable purchasing sex toys in person, try looking online. Sites like pinkcherry.ca often have sales, and provide discrete to-the-door shipping. As always, make sure you’re buying from a reputable site, look up reviews on your toy of choice, and check for discreet shipping options. If you plan on travelling with your new toy, make sure to check regulations at your destination. Some locations, including India, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and even Alabama, prohibit sex toys.

    Remember, it doesn’t matter if you’re using it at home or abroad, solo or with a partner, or if it’s your first toy or an old favorite, always sterilize sex toys after use. You can do this by cleaning them with warm soapy water, or buying a pre-made sex toy cleaner. Most non-motorized toys can be sterilized in boiling water, and motorized toys can be wiped down with a 10 to 1 water-to-bleach solution. When you are done using your battery-operated vibrator, take out the batteries, as leaving them in leads to the risk of your vibe turning on and running the motor down, not to mention some awkward questions about the source of buzzing noises! If you are leaving your vibe alone for extended periods, you also run the risk of the batteries corroding and destroying your toy, so remove them during periods of inactivity. It’s best to store silicone toys in a dry and sealed container, as silicone tends to attract lint and dust.

    So, use, enjoy, clean, and repeat! Buzz. Buzz. Buzz.

  • A Very Informative Tour of the Athletics Complex

    A Very Informative Tour of the Athletics Complex

    Welcome everyone, and thank you for taking this tour of your Athletic Complex. Better get excited, because we’ve got tons of funs stops on the tour today. So, stretch out, take some deep breaths, maybe even do some jumping jacks (if you want to look like an idiot) because we’re taking the scenic route today.

    I decided to take the scenic route, firstly to delay my workout, but also to enjoy the brisk fall air blowing up from the dykes. So everyone, please take one of these clothes pegs from the bag, and clamp it down on the bridge of your nose, to get the maximum amount of fresh air while minimizing the smell of cow manure. If you’re starting to feel like you can taste it, quit now, it’s not your day. Now that we’re strolling we’ll get started by trespassing through the grassy place on the east side of Raymond Field. If you’re not careful you make just walk right into the long jump pits. The tracks are usually in great condition, depending on which direction the wind is coming from. Eurus is on our side today, as he trapped the mounds of plastic leaves and autumn garbage against the fence with his west flowing breaths. The sand pits are messy and rugged, looking something like a guy in mid-Movember unsure if he really wants to commit, but wanting to see what he looks like with a moustache. On a positive note, this is the only sand in Wolfville you can stand on without the worries of sinking or having forty tipsy frosh trench around half naked and cover themselves in mud. Seriously, try mud-sliding, it’s more fun than reading.

    Hope you had time to do some jumps because it’s due time to move on. You may want to avoid the abandoned soccer field, it’s where the Old Cemetery residents come to play. They say you can even hear them complain about the pitch quality if you listen to their moans – clearly the idiom “beggars can’t be choosers” doesn’t apply to ghosts. On the left we’ll pass what I believe is either a top-secret headquarters from a 1950’s Chicago mob boss, or a power plant from a similar era. The place is windowless, terrifying yet also very intriguing if you’re into scaling bricks walls to enter dangerous buildings. That’s a story for another time.

    As we loop around the back of the complex you must not deny yourself the view from here. The dykes have a very honest feel of empty beauty, inhabitable and untouched by humans. Mother Nature is much more decorative than us. If you’re wondering about the chopped up logs stacked up to your left – death by Axemen. If you’re wondering about the painfully loud buzzing coming from the hockey rinks cooling system, don’t. The off switch is not in any public areas so you may have to do some independent research to shut that one down.

    The aggravating hum does bring a cold intensity to the dressing room which you can see to your left as we walk in the bottom doors of the complex. No wonder hockey players are so loud, you can’t even hear yourself think in here. If you’re bold enough to poke your nose into one those rooms, you’ll get a hefty whiff of the sweetest smell – victory of the Summer Street Stallions in the last game. Nothing is more appealing than the used hockey gear and Dry Ice combo. As we get closer to the rink, you’ll note that the buzzing seems to die down, especially past the skate sharpening area. When we pass the dented red nets, you can run your hand down their sides and feel the disappointing ding which warped their shape. Looking at this empty rink is very intimidating, and I would hate to play our hockey team at home. No joke, there are over 25 giant red A’s smothering the cavernous ceiling. At this point I’m not sure if the A stands for Acadia or Arrogance.

    Moving on from the rink, we head towards the turf field. I hate the walkway from the front entrance to the exterior. It feels like a concrete desert, as weak currents combine with aged leaves to generate the only noise of the corridor. I still can’t decide what is more unnerving: the six larger than life posters screwed to each wall, each sporting their perfectly timed vinegar faces; or the one poster of Shaffy, off the wall and sloping over a picnic table, looking like he did while playing for DAL during last week’s playoffs. Regardless, time for a new face. Hopefully with the future renovations, we can find a better use of this phony patio-area.

    As my feet grow weary, I realize that walking around mindlessly can also be a workout. I won’t blame you if you skip your workout, as I’m going to skip mine. If you still have some steam, you may want to check out the squash courts. That hole in the wall is about fifteen feet past the varsity gym, but is usually easier to spot by the long line of high-socked, visor wearing squash enthusiasts who refuse to let anyone else have a turn with their space. If you don’t see them at first glance, it is because they don’t exist. I have never seen a soul in those courts. This leads me to a great place to end my very informative tour. Go have fun, hit a squash ball at your friends. It’s always enjoyable. You can find me down there working on my game if you’re looking to continue the tour.

  • The New New Workout Plan

    In 2004, Kanye did women everywhere a huge solid and introduced us to The New Workout Plan. It was never easier to snag yourself a rapper or NBA player (or at least a dude with a car). All you had to do was: a) give head, b) stop, c) breathe, d) get up, and e) check your weave. But times have changed. We need a newer workout plan. We need one that’s a bit more comprehensive so we don’t feel the brutal effects of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness the next day. We need one that corresponds with all of the positions you know and love. So step aside, Kanye. There’s a new new workout plan.

    You know that stupid crab walk relay that you always had to do in phys. ed.? Do you remember how excruciatingly tiring that was? Do you remember collapsing when you got halfway across the gym? And yet, somehow, whenever you’re riding cowgirl, you always end up in the fucking crab-walk position. It always seems like a good idea at the time. “Oh yeah,” you think to yourself. “I’ve got this.” And, for the first minute or so, you do. You are a porn-star/sex-goddess! But then it happens. You start to feel the burn in your upper arms. You ignore it. You are capable of this. Well, you would be if you had any measurable upper body strength whatsoever. This means that you’re going to want to incorporate some triceps dips and shoulder presses into this workout. And lots of them. Unless you want to relive those painful memories of your arms giving out during your crab walk. Only this time, instead of collapsing in front of your grade 8 phys. ed. classmates, you’re collapsing in front of the hot guy you brought home from the Vil. Or more accurately, on top of him.

    Speaking of girl-on-top, your hip flexors are also going to need some serious attention. If you’ve woken up with a case of the shaky-legs, it’s a sign of a night well-spent (props), but it’s also kind of a bitch unless you plan on avoiding stairs for the rest of the day. Limber up with some lunge stretches. Your hip flexors will thank you.

    As we all know, flexibility is of the utmost importance. So do yourself a favour and get into some yoga. Bonus points for hot yoga, which will more realistically simulate you trying to bend yourself into a sexy, sweaty pretzel. This will be especially helpful if you’re hooking up with a guy who thinks that all girls can just casually throw their legs over a dude’s shoulders without pulling a muscle. As if. And I’m sure you can use your imagination to figure out why it’s also a good idea to practice downward dog. Besides downward dog, you can prepare yourself to get it from behind by practicing cow pose (on all fours, with your stomach pushed towards the mattress). I can understand if you don’t want to call it “cow pose” though. It’s already weird enough to picture yourself as a doggy when you’re having sex, let alone a cow.

    Abs are another key player when you’re getting freaky. Notice that your oblique muscles are sore in the morning? That’s probably because you were using them to hold yourself up while you were sexy-spooning your brains out last night. Some Russian twists with a medicine ball will fix you right up. And don’t forget your crunches! Those abdominals are going to come in handy when you’re on the receiving end of some oral action and you have to sit up to deliver directions and/or encouragement.

    Finally, as for shower sex, I don’t really know what to tell you. You need all of your stabilizing muscles to be on point for that shit. Maybe try a Bosu balance ball or something. Only in order for this exercise to actually simulate shower sex, maybe try balancing on it in the pouring rain while trying to dodge a million falling shampoo bottles at the same time. That should do the trick.

  • Sidelined Story: A Tale About a Boy With a Bum Knee

    “As the injury happened I wasn’t aware that anyone else had noticed I had fallen, so I was thinking I had to get off the field, get a sub and stretch it out. I thought it wasn’t an injury. Turns out I was in shock and not paying attention to where I was and everyone who was huddled around me.”

    Tearing your anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, has got to every athletes worst nightmare. The thought alone makes me cringe. The injury has a painfully long recovery time, lasting 6-9 months after surgery has finished. This includes the months of natural recovery to pass after the injury before the surgery is even plausible. Think of all that time spent, in these ever so blissful years as a student, and having nearly a quarter of your experience stuck without a working knee. Yes, as I’m sure you are imagining, the fun activities have become slightly limited. That means; no jumping on your new bed, no runs home from the Vil as you dodge rain drops, no running down to the class that slipped your mind, and no more sports!

    About eight months ago, then second-year-student John Attenborough was playing a semi-final game for Valley United Soccer Club, when he heard that unforgettable “pop” come from his right knee. Johnny, a crucial member of the Acadia Men’s Soccer Team and also CIS Academic All-Canadian had his varsity sport career thrown off the rails after that unforgiving change of direction. The talented right back, who had just been through his break-through season, was the team’s anticipated starting defender for this year’s season. His injury was detrimental for the team, but even more so for him as a member of the team. Fortunately, John was able to take time out of his evening to share his experience after he was sidelined.

    After getting all the bad jokes out of his system, he spoke on what he missed most about being on the field. “I miss being regularly active in a way that I enjoy,” he began, following with a slew of complaints about the difficulty of finding other enjoyable activities. He has recently discovered an interest in ping pong, which allows him to finally compete again. The absence of activity was not the only thing that John expressed about missing being on the team. “More than anything, I miss the general comradery of being on the team; day-in, day-out, practicing together and playing together. His chin was held lower when he reminisced on his last season with the Axemen. He is proud that he has continued to stay involved in the team, and chuckles at his dedicated attendance towards every Sunday fun-day. Johnny still goes to every game that he’s able to with a smile on his face, feeling just as part of the team as he did last year.

    In attempts to find some more positives in the situation, we looked into the extra time that the lack of soccer gave him. In the intensive, two month season things tend to become very time constrained for all athletes. Although it wasn’t all positive when he answered if academics had gotten any easier with the free time. “No, definitely not” he sharply responded, “I found that soccer kept me regimented, which was good because it gave me certain allotted times where I had to study.” He was also surprised in the fact that he hadn’t seen many changes in his social life during these times either, despite his freedom from responsibility on weekends.

    The tone was a tad more pleasant as I asked John how his recovery was going. I am pleased to report that it is going well, as he continues to meet the correct points that he should be in terms of his recovery. He has a set protocol in which he is trying to follow, one that will allow John to be back on the field for the Axemen’s 2016 season. “The first six weeks after surgery were the worst ever, but things have been getting exponentially better since,” John said with a joyful face.

    In conclusion, I asked if he had any advice to offer other sidelined players to make the most out of their unfortunate situation. His best advice was to keep involved with your team, try and stay healthy as you’ll eventually want to go back. I asked him if he wished to go back right now. His reply? “You’re an asshole.”

  • Managing Your Werkspace

    Managing Your Werkspace

    First year university can be a challenging time to start over in a new place. New places mean new areas to study and also new ways of cooperating with the environment that surrounds you. The following are a few tips that can help with studying in a new place.

    Part 1: Paper

    It’s important to come up with a good system for filing papers at the beginning of the semester. Having a clear space for paper to be stored will help with the tranquility of your room (especially if it’s hidden). Some students find that having lots of paper on their desk can be a stressful reminder of everything that they haven’t done. The residence rooms at Acadia, for the most part, have a limit amount of desk space (included the wardrobe and dresser). This space is meant to be used for everything from toiletries, extra food, books, hair and makeup items, plants, and other odd things. This means that table space must be cherished. Consider finding a place to store papers that is tucked away and not immediately noticeable. It will make a world of difference.

    Part 2: Electronic Documents

    Decide what sort of naming system you would like to apply to all of your work, and start using it right away. A consistent system will prove to be useful later on down the road.  The physical appearance of a paper free workspace can help to ease tension. It is always a good idea to make the Downloads folder of your laptop as neat as possible. This section will often become overcrowded with lots of PowerPoints and class notes provided by professors. It should also be noted that a lot of people use their computer or laptop screen for Post-It notes that give them a list of things to do. This could lead to the same feelings of clutter if not managed properly.

    Part 3: Space
    Some students find that it’s easier to study in a public place. Some find that it’s easier to study in their room. Take the first couple of weeks to try out new things and see what you like best. It may take a while to find the perfect workspace, but it is very much worth it. The following are a couple of environmental combinations to brainstorm and experiment with:

    • Public A – Public S (a public area where people surround you)
    • Public A – Private NS (a public area where no one can see you)
    • Private A – Private NS (a private area where no one can see you)

    Examples of good places to check out around campus:

    • The K.C. Irving Center
    • The Vaughn Memorial Library (check out the study rooms as well as the quiet room. As for help if you don’t know where those places are)
    • Clark Commons
    • Residence Lounges
    • The SUB (the main floor is great, as well as the Michener lounge)
    • Wheelock Dining Hall
  • Axemen Alumni Coming Home

    Axemen Alumni Coming Home

    The Acadia Sports Hall of Fame is pleased to induct former athletes who left their mark on the Acadia University athletics program. Induction ceremonies will take place Saturday, October 17th, honouring those from various teams. I had the opportunity to interview the 1994 All-Canadian football star, Larry Jusdanis. After breaking numerous records at Acadia, Jusdanis played professionally in the Canadian Football League (CFL). He was drafted by the B.C. Lions and then traded to the Hamilton Tiger Cats, which brought him back to his home town. He was the first Canadian quarterback to start a CFL game in 25 years. Beyond football, Jusdanis applied his love of athletics to business as the founder and owner of the successful strength and conditioning training business, Sports Specific Training (S.S.T.).
    How does it make you feel to be inducted into Acadia’s Sports Hall of Fame? Well, I was obviously very honoured and it was the same week I was invited to be inducted into my high school. Again, I was extremely honoured to be chosen by a great school, along with a great bunch of athletes.
    Were you recruited by other universities to play football and if so, what made you choose Acadia?
    I went to Central Florida first, and then I lost my scholarship due to an injury. Nick Richards, Dan Laramaee, and Eric Cederberg were the guys I met on my recruiting trip to Acadia when I came back from Florida. Plenty of other schools recruited me, but I fell in love with Acadia! When you were a student playing football at Acadia, what was a typical day like for you? I went to class just like you would normally. Most of my classes were early in the morning. After I’d go to my room to work, workout, go to football practice, and then go to my room again at around eight o’clock to finish homework.
    I’m sure it was a challenge balancing varsity football, academics, and a social life. How did you manage?
    My good coach, Sonny Wolfe, told me that “there were three things you could do in university: you could party, go to school, and play football. You can only do two out of the three well.” I believed you could do all average. Have fun – because university is meant to be a fun experience – you can balance it all with sufficient time management. University is not that hard if you attend class and apply effort you will succeed, you will be fine.
    How did playing football at Acadia inspire you and shape the rest of your life; and what life lessons did you learn while playing Acadia football?
    I don’t think I would specifically say “Acadia football,” just football in general. In my opinion, football is the best team sport in which anyone could ever get involved. In football, you’re on the field working with twelve guys in a unit and you can’t let that unit of yours down. It’s the same when you are working with business people in the community. It’s also similar to individuals in the military: if you’re carrying your unit and you let someone down, someone dies. Football instills in you a lot of different and great characteristics; such as, discipline, time management, working together, and coping. Maybe you don’t agree with someone, but you have to work through it as a team to make the situation better. Football is probably the best sport there is for teaching life skills. To be honest, if you asked numerous people in the work force who played at least high school, if not college football, they would agree with me.
    Is there anything else special about your time at Acadia that you would like to share?
    Acadia is a great place. It’s a great university, because not only are the professors great, but the small teacher to student is small and the classroom environment is amazing. When you go to university you go to get an education, but you also need to have an exceptional experience and Acadia does offer that. I remember the beautiful summers in Wolfville, and the perfect small town effect that makes it such a great place to live. Every student should enjoy their time at Acadia. I cherish that I made life-long friends during my time there. To this day, I’m close friends with fellow football teammates Grant Davy, Lee Barette, Dave Stefnitz, and Mike  Balint. All of us being inducted into the Hall of Fame have been friends for a long time, and it’s like a family reunion. You create a special bond when you play not only football, but any kind of sport.
  • Caution: Low Flying Blue Jays

    Caution: Low Flying Blue Jays

    There seems to have been a natural evolution among the noisy backyard bird, commonly known as the Blue Jay. Its diet typically consists of fruits, nuts, grains, and occasionally insects. But there has been recent sightings of forty, Toronto based, Blue Jays who have been eating the majority of teams in Major League Baseball. The Toronto Blue Jays were established and welcomed into the American League in 1976. In their first season they recorded a dreadful record of 54 wins and 107 losses. This shot the birds down to a stellar last place position and their results didn’t change anytime soon. Toronto’s first relatively good season came in 1982 as they finished with a nearly, positive, 78-84 record. Things were only going up-hill as they set their sights on an American league title. The year was 1985 when the lonely Canadian team won their first championship of any sort. Unfortunately their luck didn’t continue through the World Series as they watched The Kansas City Royals lift the Commissioner’s Trophy, what a shame. The Jays’ were not able to duplicate their success in the following year, but the northern-most team was now a tough competitor in the league. The road trips across the border to the Rogers Centre were becoming more and more difficult for the competition as the Blue Jays took their momentum and flew with it. With consistent positive records, it was inevitable that the boys in blue were picking up some more championship titles. Our team came to their most successful five-year period of the clubs history; the ‘89 American League East title, the ‘91 American League East title, the ‘92 World Series champions, and the ‘93 World Series champions. The only thing Toronto was missing was a back-to-back rap song from their cities golden boy, Drake, who was twenty-two years late.
    This is where we cut the history lesson short due to the fact that our country’s team hasn’t had the slightest bit of joy since that 1993 season. To save your brain from doing the math, it is 22 years. They are the current, not-so-proud holders of the longest current postseason drought. In more humiliating terms, they have sucked for the longest amount of time in comparison to every other professional baseball team. I wouldn’t dare say this about a Canadian team unless there was good news to follow. Finally things are looking up for Toronto. So as I sit my couch with a beer in my hand, watching The Jays take down Tampa Bay, I feel a rush of pride. Our only Canadian representative of baseball has the chance to secure their playoff spot right now.I take another sip, look out my window to see a Blue Jays flag flying from another quiet, television focused house. So if you haven’t gotten the chance to tune in yet, it’s time. With games running all through October, it shouldn’t be hard to make up for lost time and hop on the bandwagon. Plus, it’s cooler to say you watched their first World Series win in 22 years, opposed to their second World Series win in two years. Let’s go Blue Jays!
  • Contraception

    Contraception

     Contraception, colloquially known as birth control, has a long and strange history. Women in ancient Egypt would vaginally insert into themselves a mixture of honey and crocodile dung to prevent pregnancy, concubines in ancient China would drink lead and mercury, women in Persia were advised to jump backwards seven to nine times post coitus, and Greek gynecologists recommended that women hold their breath during sex and sneeze immediately afterwards to expel sperm. These methods fell out of favour as scientific progress advanced, and today a wide variety of more effective methods are employed. Yet, with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to pick the best one for you.Today, over 85% of Canadians report using contraception at some point in their lives, and condoms are one of the oldest methods still employed. Illustrations of condoms date back as far as 15,000 years ago and legends from 3000 BCE describe goat bladder use. We have come a long way from goat bladders to today’s latex and polyurethane. Today’s condoms, when used consistently and correctly, are 98% effective (percentages represent the number out of every 100 women who do not get pregnant after one year of correct use). Condoms are cheap, easy to obtain, can be made into dental dams, and are one of the few readily available contraceptive methods to provide a nearly impermeable barrier to STIs. The condom’s major flaws are primarily user based. Issues include removing the condom too soon, putting the condom on too late, opening the condom package with a sharp object, using an oil-based lubricant, or using an expired or improperly stored condom (such as one stored in a wallet).

    Other easily accessible contraceptives available to men include spermicides, which can have an 80% success rate when used alone; and the “pull-out” method. This method can be up to 96% effective, but has an increased risk of pregnancy through contact with pre-ejaculatory fluid, and does not protect against STIs. Men who rely on the pull-out method must be able to detect an approaching orgasm and withdraw prior to ejaculation. If this is used as the primary form of birth control, and the man fails to pull out prior to ejaculation, there is a 20-85% chance of the woman getting pregnant during her cycle.

    For women, the most well-known and commonly used method is the birth control pill. This contraceptive is an estrogen and progesterone based pill, and if taken daily at the same time can be 99% effective against pregnancy. The primary reason for failure results from the pill not being taken daily at the same time. The pill also regulates and treats heavy menstrual cycles, PMS, endometriosis, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), acne, anemia, and may decrease the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer. However, the pill may have side effects like nausea, breast tenderness, headaches, weight gain, mood changes, missed periods, decreased libido, joint pain, decreased bone density, an increased risk of cardiovascular side effects such as heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots, and may increase the risk of breast, cervical, and liver cancer.

    Other hormonal methods available to women include hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) like Mirena and Skyla, which offer 99% effectiveness and can be in place from three to five years, the NuvaRing, which can be up to 99% effective, and the birth control implant. The birth control implant is a small matchstick sized hormonal capsule inserted into the woman’s arm. Over a three-year period it releases progestin, and has a 99.95% success rate. All hormonal methods include similar deleterious side effects to the birth control pill.

    If you feel uncomfortable using a primarily hormone based contraceptive, the copper IUD may be for you. Much like a hormonal IUD, this small copper T is inserted into the uterus. Once in place it can be 99% effective for anywhere from five to ten years. Side effects may include heavier and more painful periods. Female condoms are another non-hormonal method that can result in a 95% success rate when used correctly, and provide basic STI protection. Much like the male condom their failure rate stems mainly from improper use. However, female condoms can be expensive at $4 a condom, difficult to find, and uncomfortable for the woman. Diaphragms may also be employed. These thin silicon domes are placed over the cervix to prevent sperm entry. When used with spermicides, diaphragms have a 94% success rate and can help stop the spread of some STIs. The rhythm method, or fertility awareness method, is a contraceptive method employed by the woman, who tracks her menstrual cycle to determine ovulation and her peak fertility. She then abstains from sex during these days. When used correctly the rhythm method can be up to 87% effective. If for any reason your birth control fails you, Plan B is a non-prescription emergency contraceptive available at most pharmacies and health clinics.

    If you are looking to start a new contraceptive method, change over from an existing method, get STI testing, need pregnancy guidance, or have questions about access to abortion information, there are a variety of clinics around the valley and Halifax area to choose from. In Wolfville, both Acadia Student Health Services and Mud Creek Medical Co-op offer Pap tests, STI testing, and a variety of contraceptive options. In Kentville, the Red Door also offers these services and in Halifax, the Halifax Sexual Health Center (formerly Planned Parenthood) provides similar services. Acadia also offers free condoms in all residences, the Peer Support Lounge, and through Student Health Services.

    Hopefully this article helps make your only post-sex concern how soon you can do it again.

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