Naturopathy on Wheels in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia | Medical and health

Naturopathy on Wheels

Locality: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Phone: +61 427 444 297

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25.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Wrinkle Wrinkle Little Star The Media is full of magic potions that are designed to reduce wrinkles but there are ways to ensure that your skin can stay supple without spending a lot of money. Here are some of them: When out in the sun wear a hat and avoid the hottest part of the day. ... Wear long sleeved clothes when in the sun. Wear a broad spectrum sun block. Use a moisturiser daily. (Some of the ones recommended by Dermatologists are the least expensive). Use a gel cleanser for washing your face. The night before a special event, and to look your best, try sleeping on your back to avoid sleep lines. Side sleeping can lead to wrinkles on chin and cheeks. Sleeping face down can lead to a furrowed brow. Constant squinting can effect facial muscles. Wear sunglasses. Eating Salmon or other fish containing Omega 3 Fatty Acids helps to nourish the skin. Swap that cup of coffee for a cup of cocoa as cocoa has high levels of two antioxidants (epicatechin and catechin) which may assist to protect the skin from sun damage and improve blood flow to skin cells. Dont smoke. Stay hydrated - drink 2 litres of water a day. You can sparkle instead of wrinkling!

25.01.2022 The science of soap and why its important to stop the spread of Viruses

24.01.2022 Wednesday Words: When that frog in your throat bites.... A Sore throat, while innocuous, is no joy. If it is red with little white spots infection is present. But sore throats can be caused by an allergy - in particular to dust mites (that can often inhabit pillows and mattresses); pollution and smoky air. Sore throats can be an occupational hazard for singers and actors and those who use their voice for a living. Sore throats can also be caused by stress. Those who snore ...can often wake with a dry mouth and sore throat. And of course common causes of a sore throat are colds and flu. More serious sore throats can also be a result of Tonsillitis or Glandular Fever. Seeing a health Profesdional can help to establish what is causing your sore throat. Drinking herbal teas, water and soup can be soothing. Gargling can help and salt water gargle is very effective. Try a half teaspoon of salt to a cup of warm water. Dissolve the salt and gargle several times. Dont swallow. Replacing toothbrushes when a sore throat is present is strongly recommended. Taking Vitamin C and sucking soothing lozenges is helpful. And if infection is present avoid sugar. If a sore throat persists see your Health Professional.

23.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Acai what? Acai is a dark purple berry similar to the shape of a grape and found in the Amazon rain forest. Acai berries contain Anthocyanin which provide the deep purple colouring of the berry. Due to Anthocyanin being an antioxidant it may help lower oxidative stress and inflammation and promote brain health. As well as this Acai berries are rich in fatty acids. The link between essential fatty acids and heart health and a healthy nervous system is wel...l documented. Acai berries also contain amino acids which help to promote muscle performance, energy production, endurance and strength. Acai berries contain Vitamins C, A, B1, B2, B3, and E and are also a source of Magnesium, Zinc, Copper and Calcium. It is a fruit that has significant health benefits when supported by a healthy lifestyle. The benefits of Acai are still being studied and health claims that it helps with weight loss have not yet been substantiated. As always consumption in moderation is recommended.

23.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Viruses We thought it was timely to share some information about Viruses. Viruses tend to live longer in colder temperatures where humidity is lower. During a time of low humidity moisture surrounding a virus evaporates, leaving the virus in the air for a longer period of time during which others can breathe it in. The closer in proximity to others the greater likelihood of this (think elevators for example). Respiratory infections are more easily sprea...d when exposed to face to face contact in enclosed spaces. Sun exposure helps the immune system to function optimally. Disinfecting regularly touched services (keypads; door handles; light switches; phones; handbags; drink bottles) is recommended. Regular hand washing and avoiding touching ones own face and mouth is important for ensuring health. If unwell always see a Health Professional - follow their instructions to the letter - try to avoid unnecessary contact with others and dont try to soldier on!!!

23.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Be gentle with yourself right now....

23.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Foods to boost your Immune System. In the current climate we thought it would be helpful to remind you of some of the ways you can boost your natural immune system through what you eat. Top of our list is the importance of Zinc in the diet. Many take Zinc Supplements but there are ways to boost your Zinc intake through food. Some of the most Zinc laden foods include Chickpeas, Baked Beans, Cashews and Oysters.... Next on our list is Vitamin E. It is a powerful antioxidant. Research suggests that maintaining sufficient levels of Vitamin E is crucial for also maintaining a healthy Immune system. Top foods for Vitamin E are Almonds, Sunflower Seeds, Hazelnuts and Peanut Butter. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant - helping fight free radicals which are a type of unstable molecule known to damage the immune system. Vitamin C is recommended by Surgeons as a way to boost healing after surgery also. Top foods include Citrus fruits, Strawberries, Broccoli, Kiwifruit. Another antioxidant is found in a number of plants. These are known as Carotenoids. Once consumed, these are converted to Vitamin A which helps to regulate the immune system. Top foods are Mango, Kale, Carrots and Apricots. Green tea, Yoghurt and garlic are all recommended for healthy Immune systems also. As well as good nutrition, exercising regularly and maintaining sufficient sleep are necessary to ensure a healthy immune system. Stay well our friends.

22.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Interoceptive Senses - what are they and why are they important. Lets stop and check into our bodies right now. What are you aware of? Any tightness in your joints? Are you hungry, thirsty? Whats your current body temperature? Are you too hot, too cold? Have you awareness of one part of your body right now more than another? As you tune into these aspects of your physiology you are experiencing Interoceptive awareness. So what is interoception? It encompa...sses all of the bodys tissues relaying signals to the central nervous system about the current condition of the body. These signals come from the cardiovascular system, the respiratory system, the gastrointestinal system, the immune system and endocrine system to name a few. Being aware of the internal signals from these systems can help to provide early warning when something doesnt feel right. Mindful attention to the Interoceptive signals in the body is one way recommended to assist in the regulation of emotional arousal. Focusing on the signals the body sends that give us warnings that we are struggling emotionally can provide a pathway to short circuit that escalation. Focusing on the breath is a way to tune in to the body and to become aware of its processes - and in doing so to access an inner calm.

20.01.2022 Wednesday Words: A note to those caring services: This week we want to acknowledge those caring services impacted by the Government decree to close for now or to reduce hours spent with clients. We know some of you. We know that you truly care about your clients. We have had personal experience of that. And we know it hurts you to either lessen the quality of the service you can give or to not be able to give a service at all. This post is to let you know we appreciate yo...u and the value you bring to our lives - Beauty Therapists, Pilates instructors, Hairdressers, Massage Therapists. And there are those Services who have not yet been directed to close but who are already experiencing the impact of less client access - Podiatrists and Dental Hygienists for example. We may not see some of you for a while but we will be ready to come back when you are ready to open your doors after this time. We thank you for the care you provide and ask you to be gentle with yourselves as you are with us. See more

19.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Are your eyes zoomed out?!! Zinc is necessary for good eye health as it is an essential trace element. It is involved in maintaining a healthy immune system and assists in the bodys fight against infection. In these times when many of us are spending many hours zooming looking after our eyes is crucial. Zinc assists with connective tissues which can minimise the risk of eye infections and subsequent diminished sight. Combined with Vitamin A Zinc can provid...e a powerful boost to eye health. Zinc is found in nuts, whole grains, Eggs, Chicken, Oysters, Red Meat and Pork. An important consideration is the fact that Iron competes with Zinc for absorption. Therefore a varied diet encompassing foods of all colours is recommended. Vegetarians particularly may need a Zinc supplement. As always talk to your health professional about your nutrient needs.

18.01.2022 Naturopathy on Wheels: Self-Care in uncertain times. As many of us move to working from home the days may seem long as we sit in front of our Computers, and conduct our appointments via video-link. This is a time when we need to pay attention to our self-care. Eating a healthy diet is more important than ever right now - ensuring it consists of Vegetables, Whole Grains, Fruit, Lean Protein and Healthy Fats. Exercise and having moments throughout the day when you can be ou...tside is important and will support your immune function. Now is the time to decrease habits like smoking as any potential virus-like symptoms can be more intense for smokers. And ensure adequate sleep - so important to your overall health. Heres some other tips for good health at an uncertain time: * Maintain a Vitamin regime that consists of Vitamins C, Zinc and Probiotics. (See our post on Vitamins of a couple of weeks ago). * Have a warm bath infused with 1-2 cups of Epsom Salts to decrease muscle soreness and joint pain that might be the result of hours in front of a computer or screen. * Remember to Stretch at regular intervals throughout the day. * Make yourself a good old fashioned Chicken Broth. * Studies show listening to music improves respiration and assists in lowering blood pressure. (More on this next week). * Using a humidifier is beneficial as higher air humidity may reduce virus survival. * And if worried or unsure, check with your medical provider. * Go safe everyone. See more

18.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Ulcerative Colitis - what is it? Ulcerative Colitis is an extremely painful condition. It can occur in any age group. The cause of most cases is unknown. Some causes include poor eating habits, stress, and food allergies. The best foods to consume when suffering from ulcerative colitis are high fibre vegetables -preferably raw or steamed. Processed foods are to be avoided. Drinking plenty of liquids is important - water and vegetable juices are best. If suff...ering from Ulcerative Colitis do not eat fruit on an empty stomach. Fruit is best consumed between meals. Citrus fruits are to be avoided. Caffeine and carbonated drinks and spicy foods irritate the colon. Keep a food diary and include foods eaten and symptoms experienced. For some, reaction may only be to dairy, wheat and yeast. Omega 3 fats from fish can assist to control inflammation. As always treatment of this condition needs to be supported by a Health Professional.

18.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Dont be a Bruiser! We have all sported bruises. But what are they? A bruise occurs when blood accumulates under unbroken skin due to an injury to small blood vessels. As the area is deprived of oxygen for a short time the colour of the bruised skin will change from purple to green then brown eventually! As we age skin becomes more susceptible to injury and certain medication may expedite bruising. Taking Vitamin C and eating citrus fruits, avoiding alcohol ...and eating leafy green vegetables can reduce the likelihood of bruising. A deficiency in B12 will cause bruising to be more accentuated. Meat and eggs are a good source of B12. If bruising occurs compress with an ice or cold pack. If bruising occurs easily speak to a health professional.

17.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Sweet Sweet Sugar and the Brain. Our bodies "run" on sugar i.e. glucose. Glucose fuels the cells that make up the human body. The mesolimbic dopamine system - the reward pathway in our brain - "likes" sweet foods as they provide a quick and easy source of energy. Sugar helps the brain to release dopamine which provides a "hit" of energy. However, like any substance that has addictive qualities, the more sugar we eat the more we require to get the same rew...ard and dopamine hit. Research on rats who were fed high sugar diets were found to have reduced memory capacity. The hippocampus, responsible for memory and learning, constantly requires the ability to produce new neurons. It is believed that high sugar consumption can block this process. Foods that are neuro-protective are rich in Omega-3 fats - such as salmon, flax and chia seeds, walnuts, and soybeans. Physical exercise is also neuro-protective. While the occasional sweet treat is fine - too much of a good thing is not such a good idea. And while it is hard to break a sugar habit - your precious brain will be better off with less of that sweet sweet sugar.

17.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Not a cure but certainly an Immune boost Go gently all.

17.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Happy Christmas to our wonderful followers.

15.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Don’t be a Bruiser! We have all sported bruises. But what are they? A bruise occurs when blood accumulates under unbroken skin due to an injury to small blood vessels. As the area is deprived of oxygen for a short time the colour of the bruised skin will change from purple to green then brown eventually! As we age skin becomes more susceptible to injury and certain medication may expedite bruising. Taking Vitamin C and eating citrus fruits, avoiding alcohol ...and eating leafy green vegetables can reduce the likelihood of bruising. A deficiency in B12 will cause bruising to be more accentuated. Meat and eggs are a good source of B12. If bruising occurs compress with an ice or cold pack. If bruising occurs easily speak to a health professional.

15.01.2022 Wednesday Words: The Sense that affects Balance. Continuing our focus on the senses - there are 3 more senses than we generally recognise. Our Vestibular sense relates to that part of the inner ear that tells us where we are in space - in three dimensions. People who experience migraines can suffer several different types - many experience what is known as Vestibular migraine. These are characterised by lack of balance, sensitivity to motion, vertigo and ringing in the ears.... Studies suggest that 10% of migraine sufferers experience the Vestibular kind. Building on and testing out our vestibular sense is something we often did in childhood - balancing on pole fences, flying through the air on see saws, rolling down grassy hills. We tend to forego these activities as adults. However practicing balance - even simply standing on one foot can be beneficial to ensure that we can right ourselves if we lose balance as we age. If balance is off or vertigo or migraine occurs seeing a Health Profesdional is recommended.

15.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Planting Seeds We were talking today about how important it is to have someone check in and ask how you are. We are all living through times we could not have predicted. Many are struggling - there have been various tolls for many. Reaching out to others can not only show support but can also lift your own mood. Having a laugh with someone can make all the difference to your well-being. Showing care is like planting seeds - that can grow into something to improve your health. Please reach out if you are struggling. Here are some support numbers: Relationships Australia: 1300364277; Lifeline - 131114; Beyond Blue - 1300224636.

14.01.2022 Wednesday Words: The 8th Sense The 8th and final sense in our 8 week series on the senses is that of Proprioception. It is the sense of self-movement and body position. Proprioception helps us to move freely without thinking about our environment as it provides a sense of our body in space. It is mediated by Proprioceptors -those mechano-sensory neurons located within tendons, joints and muscles. The Cerebellum in the brain controls Proprioception - and is also the part of the brain affecting balance. Cross over walking is one exercise that aids Proprioception and balance. Regular physical exercise is beneficial to Proprioception and can help to prevent falls especially for older adults. Pilates and exercises where different parts of the body are isolated for focus can help to improve Proprioception.

13.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Today we thought we would share someone elses post -

13.01.2022 Wednesday Words: what are you listening to? In week 3 of our focus on the Senses we want to remind you of the importance of caring for your ear health. These dual organs convey to us so many wonderful sounds from a babys first cry to someone dear saying I love you. They are an amazing design of multiple tiny bones each with a specific task to ensure optimal hearing. Protecting your ears from loud noise by wearing protection such as ear muffs when needed is vital. Extended ...or repeated exposure to noise above 85 decibels (approximately the level of noise emitted by a vacuum cleaner) can lead to hearing loss. Hearing also can diminish with age so regular hearing checks are recommended after the age of 60. As we age the upper frequencies are those we lose first. Foods that contribute to good hearing are rich in Potassium such as Apricots, Bananas, Yoghurt, Melons and Oranges. Folic acid contributes to growth of hair cells in the ear. Ear hair contributes to filtering of sound. The ears are closely aligned with the sinuses so ensuring any sinus infections are treated will also contribute to hearing health. The ears are also closely aligned with Emotional well-being as sounds have an effect on our Psyche. Who can deny the peace of the sound of softly falling rain, or the comfort of a lullaby to a small child. Eliminating background noise and practicing mindfulness to just focus on the sounds of silence can be a surprise as even there you may find sounds normally outside consciousness. And choosing a beautiful piece of music to listen to provides its own joys. So what are you listening to?

10.01.2022 Wednesday words: Facebook and Google cant make up for seeing your Health Professional - but here are some things to think about:

10.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Tasty! The fifth sense in our focus on the senses is taste. Really tasting something as simple as a sultana with its variety of texture can be illuminating. Too often we are not mindful about our tasting. And yet mindfully tasting food has multiple benefits -both Psychologically and Physiologically. Chewing food helps to break down larger particles into smaller nutrients. This helps the stomach to metabolise food whilst reducing stress on the esophagus. The... saliva that is released when food is chewed contains digestive enzymes. The goal of chewing is to break down food so that texture is reduced and nutrients released. Tasting food first provides opportunity to notice texture, temperature, flavour, and how food changes in the mouth. Tasting food mindfully can help to calm and provide focus to a person who is agitated. See below for an extract from a study reported by the British Psychological Society that shows chewing gum can assist with focus and concentration.

10.01.2022 Wednesday Words: What else can I do with Cucumbers? Due to their sulfur and silicon content Cucumbers support hair growth....therefore they are a good addition to any meal when wanting to promote healthy hair. They are also excellent for the skin. In fact, the peel of the Cucumber can be used as a soothing agent for sunburn - just apply it to affected areas. Another use for the skin of the Cucumber is to deter Mosquitoes. Simply rub on the skin. Pieces of sliced Cucumber... applied to the eyes help to reduce eye puffiness. Due to the fact that they are rich in Vitamin B and Electrolytes they are a perfect remedy for Headaches. Cucumbers are rich in Fibre, Potassium, and Magnesium - they can aid in the treatment of Diabetes. Cucumbers are good to help hydrate the body and to replenish Vitamins lost throughout the day. They are fat free, low in Kilojoules and Cholesterol free. Always wash them thoroughly and choose organic when you can. Cucumbers make a perfect snack, are great in salads, or sliced as a base for pre-meal nibblies. Heres to the not so humble Cucumber.

10.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Talk to the Animals With so much focus on Australian wildlife (and rightly so) at the moment todays post is a reminder that being with animals - watching them and spending time with them - is good for your health. Heres some thoughts about Domestic Pets. Domestic pets are known to reduce loneliness - one precursor of Depression - they do this in two ways: first by simply being a companion and secondly they influence social interactions. They also help t...o reduce Blood Pressure and Cholesterol and aid Heart Health - largely due to their influence on owners to enjoy extra exercise. But even if your pet is not big on exercise - petting it can be soothing and aid in the release of hormones that can reduce stress. Pets have been known to be particularly beneficial for children on the Autism Spectrum and can help these children integrate with others. There is some research to suggest that young babies raised with pets reap benefits to their immune systems. We cant resist sharing this photo of one lovely family member.

10.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Air Quality. Please look after yourselves during these days of smoke haze. Your lungs are a precious resource.

09.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Thinking of all our followers in Victoria and NSW:

08.01.2022 Wednesday Words: When life gives you lemons. Sucking on a lemon helps eliminate stomach pain and indigestion issues in the short term. Lemon juice mixed with warm water a few times a day can assist to reduce Blood Pressure. Lemon juice applied to an affected area of a toothache or to sensitive gums can help reduce pain however rinse to protect tooth enamel or if pain increases. Drinking lemon juice can help to keep breath fresh and prevent bacteria-caused bad breath. It is ...thought to stimulate saliva and can prevent dry mouth. Drinking lemon juice with water helps keep Kidney Stones at bay as lemon juice helps create urinary citrate, a chemical in urine that helps prevent the creation of crystals that can turn into Kidney Stones. Lemons are a good source of Vitamin C which is a primary antioxidant that helps protect cells from damaging free radicals. So life giving you lemons isnt such a bad thing.

08.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Incidentally Speaking.... Many of us are spending more time than ever in front of computer screens. Along with all the changes that have come about due to Covid-19 is a reduction in our Incidental Exercise. Once incidental exercise was something we could do unconsciously but now, more than ever, we need to be more conscious of the amount of incidental exercise we do. What is incidental physical activity? It is any activity that accrues movement and burning o...f energy over 24 hours for example, walking up a flight of stairs instead of taking a lift. It can include walking to the shops instead of driving. It can include doing a spot of gardening, or dancing while we are are waiting for the kettle to boil. Choosing an activity that involves movement rather than an activity that keeps us on the couch will add to your incidental exercise. But why do it? Research shows doing incidental exercise can literally save lives. So put those boots on and take those extra steps.

08.01.2022 Happy New Year to you all. We will be back in 2020 to share tips and advice to support your good health. In the meantime celebrate but keep in mind moderation in all is best.

07.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Music soothes the savage beast. The World Health Organization recognized music as a form of healing therapy back in 1996. Music has the potential to evoke feelings and images that promote emotional release. The concept of sacred sounds had formed in indigenous cultures and civilizations long ago. Music was believed to be capable of healing the soul and providing a tonic for the body. Music is routed in the primitive brain structures that relate to emoti...on and motivation. It is a powerful stimulus according to some studies. D.A. Hodges in the Music Educator Journal (2000; 87 (2): 17-22 writes "The musical brain is highly resilient." We know this as well from Dementia studies - whereby music memories are often the last to go. Any individual, regardless of circumstance, has the potential to have a wonderful musical encounter. In these uncertain times turning to music can soothe anxiety and bring hope.

07.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Are Smoke Masks Effective? In light of the devastating fires we thought we would take a look at the health benefits (or not) of Smoke face masks.There are many of these on the market to choose from. The mask the Australian Federal Government supplies is the P2 Respiration Mask. The P2 Mask is a disposable mask and is also known as the N95 Mask. It is a respirator designed to remove fine particles from the air. The life of the Mask is between 8 to 10 hours... - after which time the filter will be less effective or not effective at all. Health authorities and experts agree that P2 Masks have limited effectiveness. The mask needs to be fitted tightly so are not a good choice for those with facial hair that may impede a tight fit. While these masks can be bought relatively cheaply by the public (though many retailers are currently sold out!), the best choice is avoiding smoke altogether. Environments like shopping centers or large buildings that are air conditioned make a good choice of environment in heavily smoke-filled areas as many of these larger buildings have air conditioning systems that allow air to be filtered outwards. Timber dwellings are more prone to allowing smoke to enter. People with underlying heart or lung health issues and other chronic conditions should consult their health-care Professional before using any mask. Stay safe our Followers.

07.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Interoceptive Senses - what are they and why are they important. Let’s stop and check into our bodies right now. What are you aware of? Any tightness in your joints? Are you hungry, thirsty? What’s your current body temperature? Are you too hot, too cold? Have you awareness of one part of your body right now more than another? As you tune into these aspects of your physiology you are experiencing Interoceptive awareness. So what is interoception? It encompa...sses all of the body’s tissues relaying signals to the central nervous system about the current condition of the body. These signals come from the cardiovascular system, the respiratory system, the gastrointestinal system, the immune system and endocrine system to name a few. Being aware of the internal signals from these systems can help to provide early warning when something doesn’t feel right. Mindful attention to the Interoceptive signals in the body is one way recommended to assist in the regulation of emotional arousal. Focusing on the signals the body sends that give us warnings that we are struggling emotionally can provide a pathway to short circuit that escalation. Focusing on the breath is a way to tune in to the body and to become aware of its processes - and in doing so to access an inner calm.

06.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Hair Hair Yeah Yeah Healthy hair requires more than shampoo and conditioner. It starts with a good diet of nutritious food containing protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamins A, C, E and D as well as Zinc, Iron and Biotin. So how do I ensure I'm getting all of these? Salmon and Tuna are rich in Protein, Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin D. Eggs contain both Protein and Biotin, Vitamins A, E and some Calcium and Iron. Lean Beef is a great source of Protein ...and Zinc. Dairy Products contain Calcium, Vitamin D and are also high in Protein. Almond milk, Rice milk or Soy milk are also worthwhile. Spinach and Kale contain Vitamin A, C and Iron and Calcium. Nuts such as Hazelnuts, Pecans and Almonds are rich in Biotin, Vitamin E and Plant Protein. Walnuts are a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Sweet Potatoes are full of Vitamins A, C, Iron and Calcium. Eating a well-balanced diet consisting of Vegetables, Lean Proteins, Colorful fruits and some dairy not only benefits your hair but your entire body.

05.01.2022 Wednesday words: Facebook and Google can't make up for seeing your Health Professional - but here are some things to think about:

04.01.2022 Dedicate some KOALA-TY time to staying hydrated this weekend Men should aim to drink around 2.6 litres or ten cups of fluid each day and women should drink around 2.1 litres or 8 cups.

04.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Scent Sense In our 4th post on the Senses today we focus on the Scent of Smell. In Elizabethan times when a lady was feeling faint she was revived with smelling salts. There is wisdom in focusing on the sense of smell when considering our well-being. Our noses can bring us the beautiful scent of a rose, of the sea, of a home cooked meal, of that first cup of coffee, and those enigmatic scents of those we love. Our noses can also tell us when something isnt ...right and alert us to situations and substances that are not good for our health. Like many bodily processes and functions we sometimes dont appreciate what we have till we dont have it. Anosmia is the loss of smell. It can happen because of cold and flu and while, in most cases, it comes back after a couple of weeks, there are situations when the loss of smell is permanent. Anosmia can impact taste as smell and taste are so closely related. Apart from the distress of not being able to smell Anosmia can be dangerous in that smoke and leaking gas can go undetected. Cause can be as a result of a Virus, some medications and chemicals, chronic sinusitis as well as head and nose injuries. To keep your nasal health optimal avoid smoking and alcohol. Alcohol swells the mucous membranes. To reduce the impact of chronic sinusitis drink clear fluids - at least three litres a day. Reduce added salt and packaged foods. See a health professional for any ongoing nasal symptoms. And breathe deeply. Slow down. And smell the roses when you can!

03.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Memory a bit Foggy? Do you ever have those moments when a memory escapes you? When you cant access the word you are searching for or you cant remember the place you put that important paper? Memory problems happen to everyone. But did you know that fatty acids and some Vitamins are said to slow memory loss, vitamins like B12 and Omega 3 Fatty Acids. Having enough B12 in the diet may slow Cognitive decline when taken in conjunction with Omega 3 fatty acid...s according to research. B12 deficiency is most common in those with stomach or bowel issues and very strict Vegetarians. B12 is found in Poultry and Fish. Omega 3 Fatty Acids are found in fish. The Mediterranean diet is a good source of all Vitamins the body needs. Limiting red meat and using liberal amounts of olive oil to prepare meals is recommended to support health and memory.

03.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Week2 of our focus on the Senses - Touch. Many of you are probably missing touch right now - what with shoe taps, elbow taps and social distancing to 1.5 meters. We all need touch -a hug slows release of cortisol - the stress hormone that can cause inflammation, weight gain and heart disease. Touch signals safety and trust studies show. Warm and gentle touch calms cardiovascular stress, activating the bodys vagus nerve - intimately connected to our compassi...onate response. Touch is a major component of communication in relationships. So how to benefit from touch right now: Observe hygiene standards in the home and recommended protective measures outside the home and hug those you live with. Find textures you enjoy wearing, change your bed linen, and be mindful of the feel of the hot shower on your body. All these touch experiences can relieve stress, and provide moments of joy.

02.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Home Grown. Theres something very special about eating something you have grown yourself. Childhood memories of gorging on Mulberries, loquat plums, or heading outside to pick the mint leaves from underneath the garden tap are childhood memories that come to mind. Recently a friend gave us a bounty of mangos so sweet and perfect for summer fruit smoothies. Have you ever noticed the pride with which people point out their fruit trees and veggie gardens? And ...have you noticed how often delicious home grown varieties are? In our complicated lives its not only satisfying to revert to the simpler things in life, but also very beneficial for our health - not to mention the health of our planet. Whether its a small herb garden in a pot or an olive grove .... what can you plant? Well let you know how our planting plans go and would love to hear yours.

02.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Andrew was going to do a post on Magnesium today until I recalled this one....it was true then and is true now.

01.01.2022 Wednesday Words: Our Senses for Self-Care. Over the coming weeks we will feature the senses for self-care. Todays sense is Vision. Using our eyes to focus on the beauty in nature is one way to self-care -especially after focusing on computer screens for many hours. Remember to look away from those screens often - we blink less when we are focusing on a computer screen for hours and those blinks are vital for eye health.