Table of contents for Issue 215 in WellBeing

The Amazon, as of 2008, has officially been recognised as the world’s longest river with new measurements placing it above the Nile. It has a staggering flow of 206,000 cubic metres of water per second. The lowlands around the Amazon are known as the Amazon basin, or Amazonia, and they are the largest contiguous landscape in the world. Nearly 60 per cent of Amazonia is in Brazil but it also exists in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, Venezuela and French Guiana. Although Amazonia has been widely recognised as a place of natural wonder, it was believed that the environment was not suitable to the development of large and complex human societies. Now, earthworks that have lain hidden beneath the rainforest for millennia are challenging those conceptions. Following the catastrophic…

Music defines us. No matter what opinions you might have formed about me based on what you have read here, if I was to tell you that I like Olivia Rodrigo, Led Zeppelin and The Wiggles, you would form a clear, not necessarily favourable, image of who I am. I won’t cloud the issue with my actual musical tastes, but I will share that I have never been a particular fan of Kylie Minogue. That’s not to say I have actively disliked Kylie’s music. It just has not engaged me. Over the years, though, I have come to admire her persistence and ability to spin on high heels without tottering. I know there are millions of Kylie fans in this world, particularly in the UK. In fact, it was on…

Mother’s gut microbiome affects baby’s brain development A recent study found that a mother’s gut microbiome during pregnancy influences her baby’s brain development. In mice, the presence of the bacteria Bifidobacterium breve in the mother’s gut supported healthy foetal brain development. Researchers observed that foetuses of mothers given Bifidobacterium breve had increased nutrient transport to the brain and positive changes in cell processes related to growth, compared to those whose mothers had no gut bacteria. Bifidobacterium breve is a beneficial bacteria found naturally in the gut and available as a probiotic supplement. Obesity and chronic stress can disrupt the gut microbiome in pregnant women, leading to foetal growth abnormalities. The study suggests that taking Bifidobacterium breve supplements during pregnancy may enhance foetal brain metabolism and support healthy baby development. Source:…

Hippocrates and Dioscorides first documented the use of hypericum in the fifth century BC. Believing it would release evil spirits from the body that caused symptoms of depression, neurosis and anxiety, the herb was used prolifically in ancient Greek medicine. Later it was named St John’s wort (“wort” means plant of worth) in old English, reputedly after St John the Baptist. The flowers are said to bloom on the anniversary of his birth — with the red oil being his blood. The Hypericum perforatum plant is a tall, upright plant with bright-yellow flowers. Native to Europe, Asia and Africa, it was introduced into Australia in the 1880s. Today, farmers are harvesting the noxious weed with Australia expecting to provide up to 20 per cent of the global supply. Recently, St…

The sins of the fathers are visited on their descendants for many generations, or so the Bible claims. What is certain is that whether we’re aware of it or not, each of us is deeply affected by the lives of our ancestors and the choices they made. It’s a concept most therapists and geneticists understand well and one particularly core to ancestral healers such as Terry and Natalia O’Sullivan, authors of Ancestral Healing Made Easy (recently published by Hay House). The UK-based couple co-run workshops and retreats with the aim of helping people tap into their ancestry and uncover and heal matters arising from their lineage. What is it and why does it matter? Terry, also a spiritual medium and sangoma shaman (initiated in the tribal African tradition), describes ancestral…

Some say that grief is the price we pay for love. For many, it rings true. Whether it’s a spouse, family member, friend or beloved pet, most of us will experience loss within our lifetime. In 2023, more than 180,000 people died in Australia alone, and according to the University of Cambridge, it’s estimated that for every death, nine people are affected by bereavement. While no two people grieve in exactly the same way, there are chemical changes that take place in the grieving brain that affect us all. These changes can leave us feeling hopeless, anxious and fatigued. They can also cause challenges with cognitive functions such as memory, concentration and decision-making. But by better understanding how our brain is rewired by grief, we can take steps towards healthy…

At the heart of our body’s health lies a community of microorganisms that shapes everything from digestion to immunity. The microbiome is a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, that live in various parts of our body, with most of them found in the gut. This thriving microbial community, outnumbering our human cells, form a dynamic and vital network that plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall health. Understanding and nurturing our gut microbiome is essential for good health and safeguarding against chronic disease. In this article, we will explore the benefits of maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, the factors that can disrupt its balance and practical steps to promote and maintain a healthy microbiome through diet and lifestyle. By understanding the pivotal role of the…

Have you ever had a thought that was hard to ignore? Perhaps one that tells you to eat an extra slice of pizza when you’re already full, or to tell your boss what you really thought about their comments at the morning meeting. But what if these thoughts were much more distressing? Perhaps they are about losing your job or your home, becoming seriously unwell or accidently causing harm to someone you love. These thoughts could pop into your head several times a day — when you’re brushing your teeth, during a work meeting, while you’re on the school run. For many of the approximately 500,000 Australians with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), this is their reality. While many people may think of OCD as simply a trait of being a…

Your mind drifts while you stare out the window, watching clouds gently shifting in the cool breeze. The hum of everyday life fades into the background. For a moment, you’re lost in thoughts, perhaps about dinner or your next holiday, that have little to do with the present. It’s a harmless daydream — just your mind taking a brief detour. It happens to us all. Yet, when daydreams linger, when life feels like a blur, when you’re often running on autopilot, it becomes something more. Dissociation, a quiet escape from overwhelming feelings, can take hold. When life throws something hard our way, the body and mind can instinctively check out. While this is a natural coping response, if it sticks around, it can leave us feeling numb and distant from…

Somatic practices offer a future-focused approach to holistic wellness, providing gentle yet powerful benefits for overall health. Somatic exercises focus on the mind-body connection, offering a transformative approach to physical and mental wellbeing. Unlike traditional fitness routines that often emphasise external performance and strength, somatic practices focus on internal awareness and the subtleties of movement. By helping you to foster greater self-awareness, somatic exercises can alleviate pain, improve posture and enhance overall mobility. Moreover, they encourage a deeper understanding of how stress and emotions manifest physically, promoting holistic healing that extends beyond the physical body to encompass mental and emotional wellbeing. With this etymology, a somatic movement is practised consciously with the intention of focusing on the internal experience of the movement rather than the external appearance or the result…

For something practical Plant Power: The Key to Healthy Longevity Luigi Fontana, Hardie Grant Books In Plant Power: The Key to Healthy Longevity, professor Luigi Fontana delivers a compelling, science-backed guide to the transformative benefits of plant-based eating. Drawing on groundbreaking research, including insights that inspired the 5:2 diet, Fontana reveals how plantrich diets can prevent chronic diseases and promote longevity. Packed with practical tips and more than 80 delicious recipes, this book is an invaluable resource for both casual plant-based eaters and committed vegans. With his expertise and evidencedriven approach, Fontana empowers readers to embrace simple dietary changes for a longer, healthier life. For something uplifting Patting the Shark Tim Baker, Penguin Random House Patting the Shark by Tim Baker is a raw, inspiring memoir of resilience in the…

In recent years, the gut microbiome has emerged as a key player in health, earning its title as the “second brain”. This intricate ecosystem of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, influences digestion and nutrient absorption, immune function and even mental health. Supporting a healthy gut microbiome is essential for the whole family. Probiotics play a pivotal role in achieving this balance. The first 1000 days The first 1000 days of life, from conception to a child’s second birthday, are critical for shaping a healthy microbiome. This period influences not only digestive health but also the immune system and lifelong wellbeing. During pregnancy, a mother’s gut microbiome significantly impacts her baby’s development, making it essential for expecting mothers to prioritise gut health. Probiotics can help promote a healthy…

Years ago, when we held Open Gardens, they were “adult only” as, with farm dams and machinery, we had no way to keep kids safe. One invitee asked to bring her eight-year-old grandson. “He adores gardening. He’ll be fascinated.” The kid told me later it had been the best day of his life. While the adults listened to a two-hour talk then toured the garden, he slowly worked his way down the three trestles of afternoon tea, able to eat all the home-made biscuits, cakes, frittata, lemon tarts and varied sandwiches he wanted. Kids are not natural gardeners. A true gardener is excited when they plant a dead-looking stick, imagining the apple tree it will be. Kids don’t have the experience to understand garden magic, until they are shown it:…

Dengue fever is a serious (potentially life-threatening) viral, mosquito-borne illness that medicine today has little to offer for treatment, apart from symptom relief. There is a vaccine but, due to its potential side effects and toxicity, there is a list of clinical criteria (in Australia) that must be complied with, before it is considered. It was of interest that a healthy and fit 51-year-old woman consulted me before visiting dengue-endemic Southeast Asia (40 per cent of the population was infected at the time) for a preventive program against the virus. Her lack of prior infection was an advantage. Dengue fever is spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquitoes — a known vector of several viruses including Zika, Chikungunya and yellow fever, as well as dengue fever. Dengue fever is not contagious…

Naturally Good Expo Discover what’s next in natural products and connect with a health-conscious community. Naturally Good Expo is Australia’s leading business event for the conscious products community. Located at ICC Sydney, May 26-27, the expo is the prime destination for retailers to explore products, engage in serious business growth and network with key industry leaders. This year marks 10 years of Naturally Good. The expo continues to support and drive innovation and community in the food and health industries. Event highlights: Celebratory networking evening On the evening of the first day, Naturally Good commemorates 10 years with a celebration at the Awards & Networking night. Buyers, retailers, industry leaders and exhibitors are gathering together to celebrate and network under one roof. Product diversity Naturally Good is committed to bringing…

In 2008, researchers from The University of New Mexico announced the discovery of a new species of chameleon. This new species is remarkable because every year it takes a huge evolutionary risk in order to survive. There are more than 28,000 species of tetrapods (four-limbed vertebrates) on this planet, and nearly all of them are perennial (living multiple years). Labord’s chameleon (species name Furcifer labordi) is different. Labord’s chameleon was discovered in the lowlands of south-western Madagascar, where there is a fierce dry season that lasts from April to October. To survive this harsh season in an arid environment, this particular chameleon has decided that the best thing they can do is die. All Labord’s chameleon eggs hatch at the same time, in November just as the wet season begins.…

Everybody loves the moon. You have spent nights gazing at it in wonder, had romantic moments beneath it and even looked to it for guidance. We all love the moon but, like so many things we love, we take it for granted, so much so that we haven’t even bothered to give it a name. It is just “the moon”. Implicit in our use of the definite article “the” is the notion that not only do we know “the moon” well, but there is only one moon. We are smugly confident about our relationship with “the moon”, confident in the knowledge that we have just the one. It’s good to be confident in your relationships but there is a problem here, because we have two moons. Technically, a moon is…

The winner of our Star Letter will receive a Murrup Life Style pack that includes a drink bottle, notebook and lunch bag from the Murrup collection. This collection features the work of Kobi Sainty and contributes 100 per cent of profits to deliver programs that support children and young people in four of Australia’s most remote First Nations communities. For more, visit murrupshop.org.au. WellBeing is by far the best magazine I have ever read. Very inspiring with great information. Excellent publication, full of fantastic health advice, nutrition and tips. It’s my favourite magazine! Suzanne We asked our inspiring WellBeing readers to share some of their favourite therapies and modalities. Here’s what they had to say. Meditation has changed my life! As someone who ran high on cortisol, a daily practice…

App detects microplastics from common products Microplastics and nanoplastics are increasingly found in our food, water and air due to the degradation of plastic materials such as water bottles, bags, utensils and takeaway containers. Nanoplastics are especially concerning because their small size and large surface area allow them to absorb toxins and penetrate biological barriers, presenting significant threats to food systems, ecosystems and human health. Researchers at The University of British Columbia have developed a low-cost portable tool for detecting plastic particles from everyday sources. Unlike traditional methods that are expensive and require specialised equipment, this new tool, paired with a smartphone app, uses fluorescent labelling and requires less than a drop of water to detect minute plastic particles. Dr Tianxi Yang, the lead developer of the tool, says this…

Flirting is terrifying. Flirting is exhilarating. If it’s neither of those things for you, then you aren’t doing it right. The scientific definition of “covert signals sent between individuals to indicate sexual interest and begin courtship” does not even scratch the surface of the alarming social high-wire performance that is flirtation. Flirting involves you stretching your metaphorical scrotal self (using scrotal in the non-gendered sensitive-privatebits sense) across the razor-sharp blade that is the opinion of another, usually a stranger. It is inherently scary, but it’s also fundamentally exciting because the rewards are equally as elevating as the downsides are desiccating. It is no wonder then, that for thousands of years, humans have studied the art and science of flirtation. Some of what has been found has been enlightening, the rest…

As the hot Mexican sun beat down on his shoulders, Camden Howitt paddled out on his surfboard towards the horizon. But his surf session resulted in a nasty surprise — not an epic wipeout, but a used nappy to the face. “I was in this awful kind of frothy coffee-coloured water,” recalls Howitt, “and just [thinking] ‘I’m probably going to be quite sick’”. The nappy wasn’t the only unwanted visitor — plastic waste littered the beach too. “Times like that you sort of go, ‘We’ve got to do a lot better for nature and for ourselves. This impacts us.” The year was 2005 and the then 21-year-old Howitt was on a study trip to Mexico. It was an experience that ignited Howitt’s passion for protecting and regenerating our oceans and…

Instead of a promotion, you’ve just been made redundant and discovered your not-so favourite cousin is staying with you for a month. You’d be forgiven for curling up on the couch with a tub of caramel-swirl ice-cream and thinking, “Well, life really does suck at the moment.” No matter how it feels right now, it’s not all gloom and doom. During periods of uncertainty, we peel back the jumbled intricacies of our humanity and truly thrive. We cut to the chase, to the heart of what we truly care about. Authors of The Upside of Uncertainty: A Guide to Finding Possibility in the Unknown, professor Nathan Furr and entrepreneur Susannah Harmon Furr, believe uncertainty can be a gift. “Even now, behind every uncertainty you are facing, even the unwanted and…

Wolf packs have a distinct hierarchy where the alpha sits at the top and power cascades downward, landing at the omega who is the outsider or pariah of the pack. This evolutionary pecking order is all about survival and preserving the strength of the pack. Social anthropologists have hijacked this evolutionary nomenclature to describe different types of personalities denoting leadership qualities used predominantly for men in corporate structures. However, this form of social notation now has a wider scope and is no longer confined to a single gender as we see the rise of the female wolf pack. Sourcing attributes from physical strength, social relations, intelligence and confidence as well as heritable qualities, we all possess a unique set of traits, which, when assembled, can be categorised as a type.…

Made from 100% breathable organic cotton Occi O is an Australian sleepwear label ethically produced in beautiful Sri Lanka. Each piece is thoughtfully designed with both the wearer and environment in mind and crafted to make you feel comfortable as you sleep. Bonus Gift when you SUBSCRIBE To receive this offer, call 1300 303 414 and quote the code WB215, or visit universalshop.com.au HURRY! Offer ends May 29, 2025 12 ISSUES OF WellBeing magazine RRP $155.40 PLUS BONUS OCCI O SLEEPWEAR RRP $159 TOTAL RRP $314.40 FOR ONLY $149 SAVE $165.40 Subscribe at universalshop.com.au.…

I’m freewheeling high above the sea, cycling through blooming coastal heathlands and baking under a hot October sky. Far below floats a tri-coloured tapestry of baby-blue lagoons, rugged reefs and sailboats swinging at anchor in patches of bright white sand. This summery seascape that flanks Perth’s most beloved island is utterly irresistible. So I park my bike, amble down over the cliff, strip off and fall right on in. I surface with a gasp that makes my daughter laugh, chilled by icy waters that flow straight out of Antarctica. It might be breathtakingly cold, but the water clarity is insane. I stand waist-deep, watching my daughter duck and dive through schools of translucent fish while the dolphins that give Porpoise Bay its name hunt on the fringe. I might be…

When life tested Louise Mace with its toughest challenges, she found healing, purpose and her true calling in natural health. “The year 2020 changed my world, and I’m not referring to the pandemic,” Mace shares. “I’d been a widow for six years, working in an industry that didn’t align with me and relying on alcohol to numb my sadness. I knew I was off my path, and I felt completely out of place in my own skin.” A deep period of soul-searching led Mace to a life-changing decision. “I’d always felt connected to nature and its gifts — the ocean, forests plants — and I was raised to appreciate natural healing. Growing up in Tasmania in the ‘70s, that way of life was just normal.” In the early ‘90s, Mace…

When you think of honey, you likely envision it drizzled over pancakes or stirred into a steaming cup of tea. But did you know this golden, sticky substance has been revered for centuries as a natural beauty remedy? From ancient Egypt to modern skincare, honey has earned its reputation as a versatile and powerful ally for natural beauty. The benefits of honey Honey is more than just a sweet treat. It’s a nutrient-dense powerhouse packed with vitamins, minerals and enzymes that work wonders for your skin and hair. This makes it a staple in many holistic beauty regimens: • Humectant properties Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into your skin. This makes it an excellent ingredient for keeping your skin hydrated and plump.• Antibacterial…

The Australian Integrative Medicine Association (AIMA) describes integrative medicine as “a philosophy of healthcare with a focus on individual patient care. It combines the best of conventional Western medicine with evidence-based complementary medicine and therapies.” My definition of integrative practice is healing using the best of both worlds, although that’s probably too simple. These days, conventional veterinary medicine includes aspects previously regarded as complementary, such as nutrition and nutraceuticals, as well as rehabilitation. Holistic medicine may consist of many modalities, including but not limited to Western herbal medicine, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurvedic medicine, naturopathy, homeopathy and physical therapies, such as acupuncture, massage, chiropractic and photobiomodulation. There are energetic remedies, including Reiki and Bowen, and emotional remedies, such as flower essences. Other alternative treatments include intravenous vitamin infusions, faecal transplantation,…

Virgo Life has a fateful feel since your mid-March total lunar eclipse in Virgo. Late March through April, your partner sign Pisces greatly influences your choices, as heart-opening moments continue. It is fine to abandon plans, to go with the flow, because Mercury has been retrograde in Pisces, finally moving you ahead on April 7. Fated meetings are suggested when Mercury joins the Eclipse Axis on April 11. This year, old soul business will reintroduce you to old forgotten wisdoms. When your speedy ruler then joins Neptune from April 17–21, inspired action is yours to claim. Finances and many decisions benefit. Earmark May 2–13 as best action time. Libra The final Aries/Libra eclipse occurs on March 29’s New Moon and a cycle completes. This 18-month period has opened doors to…

When my son turned two, we moved to the town we now call home and discovered the local tea-tree lake. It quickly became a favourite spot. He loved wading into the calm waters without the challenge of ocean waves. He was mesmerised at how his hands turned crimson the moment he submerged them into the tea-stained water … every single time. He lived with pure, unfiltered joy, splashing and laughing as though each day was his last. Strangers often stopped to remark: “Living his best life!” What does it mean to live your best life? This question has always intrigued me, which is one reason why I love this magazine. The idea that we can architect our most fulfilling life is one that I’m personally obsessed with. At the start…

Restoring the ageing brain’s waste-disposal system Recent research highlights that neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s may be linked to the brain’s reduced ability to clear harmful waste. Ageing slows down the brain’s waste-removal process called the glymphatic system, which uses cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to remove toxic proteins generated by brain cells like beta-amyloid, tau and alpha-synuclein, which contribute to these diseases. A recent study shows that restoring the function of cervical lymph vessels can reverse age-related declines in CSF flow. In ageing mice, CSF flow slowed by 63 per cent due to reduced contractions and valve failures in these vessels. Researchers used prostaglandin F2, a hormone-like compound commonly used for inducing labour and aiding smooth muscle contraction, to treat older mice. This treatment restored CSF flow and vessel…

Even though philosophers have been pondering it for centuries, in the scheme of things, the concept of abundance is a relatively new one for human beings. Like most animals, humans evolved in an environment where their prime concern was finding enough food for their next meal. It was not until the agricultural revolution that humans developed an ongoing surplus of food and were able to settle in one spot. As they had stopped moving around, humans could now acquire “things”. This transition from hunter-gatherer to farmers happened around 10,000 years ago, which, in the context of four million years of human evolution, is a mere moment ago. Coping with abundance is not something that human beings have evolved to do. Moving away from the base needs of survival created the…

Low testosterone has become a growing concern for men, especially as they age. Beginning at around age 30, testosterone levels naturally decline at a rate of about 1 per cent per year, with a sharper drop typically occurring around age 60. This decline can result in a range of symptoms such as fatigue, loss of muscle mass, reduced libido and cognitive issues. Low testosterone, also known as androgen deficiency, andropause or male menopause, is linked to an increased risk of health conditions, including depression, obesity, type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Research suggests that up to 40 per cent of men over the age of 45 are affected by low testosterone. Maintaining healthy testosterone levels is essential for men’s overall wellbeing, impacting everything from physical strength and energy to mood and…

Welcome to another wonderful instalment of WellBeingTV. In this issue, you’ll hear from interior designer and stylist Rachel Vigor. With more than 30 years’ experience in the industry, Rachel’s passion for nature and love of organic materials brings a fresh, approachable perspective. With Rachel, discover how nature-inspired rituals can transform your daily routine, bringing clarity and calm to your everyday life. For more, visit wellbeingmag.tv. In the past, rituals to achieve inner peace were once seen as rigid practices bound by strict rules. However, the world of wellness and our understanding has evolved. We’ve come to realise that a ritual should be obtainable and accessible. The key is finding rituals that suit your individual needs. Those moments of reflection and relaxation that allow you to recharge and find inner calm…

Artificial intelligence is the latest buzzword that every tech head seems to want to reference. For anybody tasked with looking ahead at the future, it is a dependable fallback to use. Yet virtually nobody has voted for it, or signed a petition urging its wider adoption. While the rollout of such disruptive technologies is commonly presented as a foregone conclusion, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy dynamic, it’s important to remember that this line of messaging may be spread by those people who have the most to gain from it economically. Alongside this, AI is also a focal point for tech-dystopian headlines, and its downsides are increasingly being recognised. Nevertheless, it may offer certain important benefits, especially in the field of scientific research. A central question is whether it is possible to…

It’s time to honour the women who offer unconditional love and care. What better way to express gratitude than by gifting something that enhances your mum’s health? These hand-picked gifts from WellBeing are just the ticket. 01. Rose Soothing & Protective Moisturiser by MV Skintherapy Pamper Mum with glowing skin. This luxurious Rose Soothing & Protective Moisturiser calms, hydrates and protects sensitive skin. Available in two sizes, it’s crafted with Bulgarian rose petals to soothe and strengthen — transforming her daily routine into the self-care ritual she deserves. mvskintherapy.com 02. Dressing Gowns by Smitten Merino Smitten Merino Dressing Gowns are the ideal gift — something our mothers need every day (and often in the middle of the night!). Made with love in Tasmania from 100 per cent Merino wool and…

“Faith gives us strength and allows us to remain increasingly unshaken in the ups and downs of life. We begin to receive nourishment from within. We discover the inner source of the nectar of contentment and joy. It brings us fulfilment and the power, stamina and agility necessary to pursue our path.” Ram Dass George Michael said it. Bhagavad Gita said it. If there’s one thing in life you’ve got to have, it’s faith. Faith will hold you steady when nothing else can and connect you to a deep inner strength that no one can take away. But what exactly is faith and how do we practise it when nothing seems to be going our way? What is faith? Faith can be understood in many ways, but there are two…

A Heide Harvest is a beautifully curated celebration of food, art and history, rooted in the legacy of John and Sunday Reed’s iconic Heide property in Victoria. The cookbook takes readers on a journey through the lush gardens of Heide, where heritage roses, herbs and heirloom vegetables once flourished alongside a vibrant community of artists. The heart of the book is its 90 original recipes, contributed by leading Australian chefs, each reflecting the ethos of Heide’s kitchen gardens. Each chapter pairs these recipes with rich historical insights, charting the transformation of the property from a dairy farm to a cultural institution. A thoughtful fusion of culinary tradition and artistic heritage, A Heide Harvest is an evocative ode to Sunday Reed’s legacy and the enduring influence of the Heide gardens. A Heide…

Despite popular belief, meditation does not require absolute silence and stillness. My first sound bath, eight years ago, proved this to me. Pregnant and unable to practise my usual yoga or meditation, I went along to support my brother, who had just started meditating. I was desperate to “drop in” to that quiet place within. Despite my nausea, I summoned up what little energy I had to go lay on the floor. Surrounded by waves of sound, something deep inside me shifted. The vibrations calmed my mind, released my anxiety and eased my discomfort. I was hooked. Last year, during a retreat, the crystal singing bowls called to me in a new way. The soothing tones whispered: “Learn how to play”. Hesitant at first, I followed the nudge of my…

There’s something magical about a recipe that can fill your kitchen with inviting aromas and bring the whole family together around the dinner table. This Middle Eastern mince dish does exactly that. It’s a delightful blend of warm spices, fresh vegetables and savoury beef mince that’s both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re a busy parent or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinners, this recipe offers an easy and flavour-packed solution. The beauty of this dish lies in its aromatic complexity. Ground paprika, cumin, coriander and cinnamon work in harmony to create a warm and earthy spice base, while fresh ginger adds a subtle zing. As these spices mingle with the beef mince and vegetables, they release a heady fragrance that’s as enticing as the dish itself. The final touch…

To be clear, a disclaimer is necessary here. I am not taking methylene blue, nor am I financially intertwined with any company that sells this substance. It’s not endorsed by the TGA and you won’t find it in any health food shop in this country. But I recently attended a conference of the medical eclectics where all the subterranean buzz was about the protean benefits of methylene blue. Also, one of my more avant-garde patients has been importing this potion and concocting his own formulation in his home laboratory (he is a Mensa). This is why I’ve decided it was time I got jiggy with the science of this new “longevity wonder drug”. Methylene blue’s first iteration was as a textile dye in 1876. Since then, it’s morphed into an…

When I turned 47 in 2019, just before Covid, I was a confident writer, artist and corporate climber with two daughters fresh out of college and a hard-working husband. By most definitions, I was living a happy, fulfilling, successful life. Outside, I was smiling and enjoying my life. Inside, I had become a bundle of nervous energy, fearful of things that I usually would not give a second thought. I didn’t recognise this sick, paranoid woman at all. After a little more research and a chat with a woman at my favourite health-food store, I finally discovered a condition that stuck — health anxiety. Particularly for women my age, health anxiety is an actual, debilitating condition that can go untreated for far too long. Fortunately, with increased awareness of mind-body…

Autumn Vegetables Asian greens (bok choy, choy sum, gai laan, wonga bok), avocado, beans (butter, green and snake), beetroot, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, capsicum, carrot, celery, chilli, cucumber, daikon, eggplant, leek, lettuce, field mushrooms, okra, olives, onions (brown, red and spring), parsnip, peas, potato, pumpkin, shallot, silverbeet, spinach, squash, swede, sweetcorn, sweet potato, taro, tomato, turnip, zucchini. Fruit Apples (Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith and Red Delicious), banana, breadfruit, cumquat, custard apple, fig, grapes (Muscat, Purple Cornichon, Sultana and Waltham Cross), guava, kiwifruit, lemon, lime, mandarins (Imperial), melons (honeydew and rockmelon), nashi, orange (Valencia), papaya, passionfruit, pears (Beurre Bosc, Howell, Josephine, Packham, Red Sensation and Williams), persimmon, plum, pomegranate, quince, rambutan, raspberry, rhubarb, rockmelon, tamarillo.…

Near the centre of the 5000-year-old stone circle known as Stonehenge is a six-tonne stone known as the “altar stone”. It was believed to have been transported from Wales to its current resting place on Salisbury Plain in southern England. Stonehenge features two types of rocks, the larger sarsens and the smaller bluestones. The sarsens are sandstone slabs found naturally in southern England and weigh 20 tonnes on average. The bluestones are smaller and made of sandstone mixed with volcanic material. They are called bluestones because they look blue-grey when wet or freshly broken. The largest of the bluestones is the altar stone and it weighs six tonnes and is 5m long. It is thought that the altar stone was installed in the second phase of the construction of Stonehenge,…