Health & Nutrition

A holistic cold and flu prevention plan using vitamins, herbs, lifestyle tips and immune support for a healthy, resilient winter. A 67-year-old recently retired woman was concerned with the coming cold and flu season and wanted a program to protect her from infections. For two to three years, she had been getting the annual flu vaccine from her doctor, but she had been increasingly reacting adversely to the vaccine – getting a worse dose of the flu than she ever used to prior to the vaccinations. Research shows that while the flu vaccines help some people, they are not always as effective in older people as they are purported to be. The figures show that in elderly people, less than 30 per cent find them effective. She agreed to follow a program for the next few months. These programs are more effective if commenced at the change of season, before the flu season really kicks in. Flu viruses mutate every year, so this is an annual program. She was taking minimal supplementation that was not specific enough for her current situation. General hygiene is a basic first step. Wash hands regularly in warm soapy water (pure soap does not contain the chemicals contained in sanitisers). Masks are useful if you have a cough and to protect others from your germs – not so much for personal protection. When tested, her Vitamin D levels were 60 (just inside the lower end of normal range). A measure of 100–120 is significantly more effective for health and respiratory protection, so a combination supplement of Vitamin D3 and K2(spray) was recommended. As winter was coming and her levels were low, it was recommended she take four to five sprays per day after food (if taken on an empty stomach, only about 15 per cent is absorbed). Zinc is an important antiviral and immune stimulant. A dose of 25-50mg elemental zinc was recommended daily, and older formulas were preferred with relevant cofactors including manganese. Zinc is better absorbed if taken with the night meal. Magnesium is important – particularly if experiencing cramps regularly – along with vitamin A, which strengthens membranes. Vitamin c is critical. She was taking calcium ascorbate, but this formula is not the most effective. She needed to switch to a mixed ascorbate formula, or one made from rose hips or acerola cherries (or camu camu powder). Vitamin c dose was 1000mg twice a day. A formula of herbal medicines was suggested that contained echinacea (long-term use of this is not recommended), olive leaf, mullein, elecampane, elder berry and cat’s claw. Olive leaf also has blood pressure-lowering properties – often useful in older people. Andrographis is very effective for some, but be careful of the dose as it can also cause adverse reactions in sensitive people. It was also necessary to get plenty of sleep, regular exercise – preferably in the early morning sun – and ensure adequate hydration. If she felt a cold or flu coming on, rest was recommended. Zinc, vitamin c and herbs will stimulate the body to eradicate the pathogen. The second aspect when dealing with infections is to reduce the inflammation triggered by the pathogen that allows it to spread – quercetin (one dose twice per day) was recommended. In case of infections, doubling the doses of these remedies and taking them three times per day for a couple of days will minimise symptoms and aid in a quick recovery. A spoonful of a good-quality raw honey in a lemon and honey hot drink will help. Raw garlic, onions, ginger and turmeric relieve the inflammation and reduce the infection. Chicken soup (“mother’s penicillin”) supports immunity with its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Cold and flu viruses create acidic environments, so alkalising is recommended. Apple cider vinegar daily and half to one teaspoon of bicarb soda in filtered water are effective. Eucalyptus oil in an inhalation relieves sore chests or coughing, and salt water (or sage tea) gargles help with sore throats. A significant part of immune system strength starts in the gut, so ensuring a healthy gut microbiome goes a long way in prevention. Fermented foods such as yoghurt, kefir (based on coconut rather than dairy) and kimchi are excellent. I saw this woman several years ago and she has followed this program from April through winter and, to date, she has only had one incident of feeling unwell, which lasted a couple of days. She is very happy with the result and feels she has greater control over her health. Article featured in WellBeing Magazine 216 Read More

If you’ve ever scrolled through beauty blogs or wandered the supplement aisle, chances are you’ve come across a popular ingredient known for its benefits to hair, skin and nails: biotin. But what exactly is it, and how does it work? Also known as vitamin B7, this water-soluble nutrient plays a key role in the body’s metabolic functions. It helps convert carbohydrates, fats and proteins into energy, supporting vitality, brain function and digestion. While often linked to beauty benefits, it’s essential for overall health too. The natural beauty connection Once little-known, biotin has now become a regular part of beauty routines thanks to its visible results in skin, hair and nail health. Let’s explore how it supports natural beauty from within. Hair growth and strength By promoting keratin production, biotin helps hair follicles stay nourished and resilient. This can lead to thicker, shinier hair and may help reduce thinning or breakage. People with low levels of this nutrient often experience hair loss, making it a go-to for healthy hair support. It also plays a part in preventing split ends and encouraging growth, especially for those aiming to maintain long, strong locks. Nail resilience Struggling with brittle or peeling nails? Biotin may help strengthen them and support growth. It’s known to increase nail thickness and reduce breakage, especially useful during cold seasons or times of stress. Healthier skin For your skin, biotin can make a noticeable difference. It helps maintain the integrity of the skin barrier, supporting elasticity and hydration. Some find it helpful for managing conditions like eczema, acne and dermatitis due to its anti-inflammatory support. Clearer complexions By balancing fatty acid metabolism and oil production, biotin can also help reduce breakouts and improve overall skin tone. How to boost intake naturally Luckily, this vitamin is easy to incorporate into your diet. Found in many nutrient-dense foods, it fits well into a whole-food lifestyle. Start your day with a breakfast rich in biotin – think scrambled eggs with spinach and avocado, or a smoothie made with berries, almond butter and chia seeds. Here are some of the best food sources: Eggs (especially the yolk) Nuts and seeds, including almonds and sunflower seeds Legumes like chickpeas and lentils Avocados, full of healthy fats and this essential vitamin Sweet potatoes, which also provide skin-loving vitamins A and C Berries, offering antioxidants that pair well with biotin Leafy greens such as spinach and kale If you’re not getting enough from food, a natural supplement might help. Choose a whole-food-based biotin option, and consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new regimen. The takeaway Adding biotin to your daily routine is a simple, natural way to support radiant beauty and lasting wellness. When paired with a balanced diet rich in whole foods, it offers benefits that go beyond the surface—strengthening your hair, nourishing your skin, and giving your nails a healthy boost. Just remember: beauty starts from within, and biotin is only one part of the holistic wellness picture. Article featured in WellBeing Magazine 216 Read More

Discover Bali’s west coast – uncrowded waves, lush rice paddies, local surf culture and authentic, off-the-beaten-path escapes. This Balinese sunrise is hours old when I hit the sand, pausing on the palm-fringed edge of the sea to watch the rolling waves. Stretched before me, a broad wedge of grey sand tempers the crashing swell and a handful of riders shoot through barrels and peel off to do it all again. Down the beach in the softer waves, some new-to- surfing girlfriends are practising their moves, riding gentle tumblers to shore on their bellies and knees. I kick off my thongs and take the plunge, ducking and diving and soaking up this unhurried scene – the warmth of the water, the crumbling cliffs that line the beach and an utterly old-school surfer vibe I never knew still existed in Bali. Denpasar’s “hello mister” hustle puts a lot of travellers off Bali and sends them in search of wilder, more remote slices of Indonesian island life. So, while Kuta and I still don’t see eye to eye, a mere two-hour drive away, I find myself utterly wooed by Bali’s rugged west coast wilderness. Love it or hate it, there’s nothing beige about Bali, and the best of it –the wild beaches, uncrowded waves, authentic cuisine and vibrant village culture – begins at Balian Beach. We’ve come to Bali – my family and I – in search of all the things that most travellers want from Indonesia, but to incongruously find myself enjoying them in the absence of a crowd. We are collectively hoping for some chilled, beginner waves to surf, a comfortable villa in a laidback village and the chance to eat, stretch and connect with Balinese life. I scour online booking sites for some place beyond the Denpasar mayhem and, two hours later, tumble out of a Grab car in front of a cluster of villas that stud glistening rice paddies above Balian Beach. The scene is so surreal that I half expect Julia Roberts to ride past on her bicycle, but instead it’s the local rice planters who stop to welcome us with waves and beguiling toothy smiles. From the terrace of our air-conditioned villa, it takes just five steps to reach the pool, which we happily have all to ourselves. An old coconut grove shades our private nirvana. and the lovely Lena arrives each morning to cook our breakfast to order – fresh tropical fruit platters and strong Balinese coffee, followed by omelettes, pancakes or spicy Indonesian fried noodles. It’s included in our modest room rate and sates appetites until late in the day when we return from the beach ravenous to sip icy ale beers and shakes and dangle our feet in the pool until dinnertime. Bali’s backwater There’s an untamed aura about Balian Beach. It’s sea- ravaged volcanic crags and tumbled pebble-strewn beach endure a daily pummelling from the Indian Ocean swells that all-knowing surfers arrive daily to ride. It’s an untrammelled slice of heaven known mostly to these wave riders, and its distinct lack of nightlife and distance from downtown Kuta evidently keeps visitor numbers in check. There is a generous choice of tourist villas in the surrounding village of Lalanglinggah, but traditional Balinese compounds vastly outnumber guesthouses. These rectangular walled compounds – unique to Bali – cluster together three or four generations of family members around the all-important family temple. In Balian, local people go about their business with a smile and a wave, and there’s none of the street-side badgering that tires travellers elsewhere in Bali’s west coast. A single road leads through Balian to the beach where travellers commune by day to catch the sea breeze and surf. A pair of places rent surfboards and arrange lessons, there’s a solitary (and highly recommended) yoga shala and just enough al fresco cafes to sit, sip and dine. The beach at Balian is long enough for a proper leg stretch and extends across the river mouth where bull sharks famously gather after the big torrential downpours that sideline surfers. When we arrive at Balian, the strong, southeasterly trade winds are already wreaking havoc, chopping up the swell as the high tide recedes. Early mornings are the best time to grab a board and hit the water, and surfers credit Bali’s cool mountain air blowing offshore over Balian with carving out its fun-riding clean waves. This early morning convection breeze blows reliably from April to October, until the trade winds kick in and end sessions by noon. A sacred river joins forces, magnifying even the smallest of swell and ensuring that Balian’s mellow and non-competitive three breaks stay consistent year-round. The peak breaks slowly left and barrels fast to the right, while across the river, Ketuts provides an intense, high-performance, right-breaking ride. The far west throws novice surfers a cruisy ride, proving there’s something for all skill levels on this one beautiful beach. Inner peace If Balian had a word, it would surely be “authentic”. It’s laidback and unhurried in a way that Kuta hasn’t been for decades, it’s beach breaks are uncrowded, and its jungle, rural backdrop is breathtaking and beautiful. The scenic rice paddies that rise towards the jungle flanks of Batukaru Mountain are some of the loveliest in Bali’s west coast, if only for the lack of other onlookers sharing your views. Board riders might have discovered it first, but non-surfers are hot on their heels, drawn to Balian for all that it offers ashore too. We connect with Balinese yoga instructor Nicky Sudianta at his open-air Balian Spirit Yoga shala, located high above the beach. After a long day by the sea, I’m keen to unwind, but Nicky’s afternoon hatha flow sessions aren’t the kind that keep you lying down for long. Our salutations are slow but rigorous, moving with intention and purpose, and despite Nicky’s calm and patient vibe, this is practice all the same. I’m definitely in holiday mode but my too-tight hips need some work, so while I’m

Explore how sponge cities, rain gardens and depaving help manage rainwater and restore nature to our increasingly urban spaces. Many years ago, Joni Mitchell sang about developers paving paradise and putting up a parking lot. Today, it is becoming increasingly common to see paved or concreted surfaces returned to nature, and this is not just as a concession to the hippy generation. In built-up areas, impermeable hard surfaces have become ubiquitous. There was a logic behind this. Cities and towns were once unsanitary places with an excess of mud and filth, and after sewers came into use, the goal for managing excess water was to simply dispose of it. This arrangement worked relatively well until fairly recently. Now climate change is raising ocean temperatures, causing the air above to hold more moisture, which results in storms over land that are increasingly frequent and more intense. Surface water from flash flooding is liable to temporarily accumulate faster than it can drain away. The traditional drainage model is no longer working. Current urban water design is shifting away from hard engineering towards permeability, with elements such as bioswales, rain gardens and green roofs increasingly commonplace as means for rainwater to percolate, reducing stormwater volumes. This fulfils a number of functions, the most important of which is to ameliorate the severity of floods. Groundwater depletion is a global issue, and allowing rainwater to infiltrate can recharge aquifers. Pollutants such as chemicals and oils that would otherwise be released into the environment are often absorbed by bacteria and fungi in the soil or filtering medium. A “green and blue” nature- and water-focused urban infrastructure model is often referred to as the sponge city, and extends to parks, lakes, wetlands, woodlands and large peri-urban tree plantings such as the Orbital Forest around Tirana, the capital of Albania. The origin of sponge cities Kongjian Yu founded an innovative Chinese landscape architecture company called Turenscape in 1998. In the 1990s, he had studied overseas and, after returning later in the decade, he was disappointed to see the country embracing the Western concreteoriented paradigm when it came to infrastructure. Yu’s early speciality was to reclaim disused industrial sites and return them to nature. He coined the term “sponge cities” in a 2003 publication and continued working out of the limelight for a decade until 2013, when President Xi Jinping adopted Yu’s model, launching China’s Sponge Cities Program. During 2015 and 2016, 30 pilot sponge cities were selected for projects. Today, Turenscape is behind more than 1000 sponge city initiatives in over 250 Chinese cities, plus others in France, Indonesia, Russia, Singapore, Thailand and the US. China’s ambitious 2030 target is for 80 per cent of urban built-up areas to have sponge city adaptations, and for them to recycle at least 70 per cent of rainwater. Meanwhile, sponge city features were, perhaps unfairly, criticised because in 2023 they were no match for the severe weather. Beijing experienced its heaviest rain in at least 140 years, and flooding was widespread. Innovative water design One focal point for Turenscape’s activities has been China’s southern island of Hainan. With a monsoon climate, it can experience severe storms and flooding. The city of Sanya has converted a former landfill site adjoining a river into a mangrove park featuring a gentle slope with terraces and bioswales that cause water in the landscape to be slowed down and absorbed. It also features interlocking fingers of land and water channels. Another Turenscape project is Benjakitti Forest Park in Bangkok, a city that has its own flood challenges. Similar to Sanya, this involves some constructed wetlands on a former industrial site. It features four lakes containing numerous grasstopped mound islands created using concrete that was recycled from the redevelopment. These mounds filter and clean water and also provide habitat for wildlife. Public access is via raised walkways. Rotterdam in the Netherlands is redesigning a square with part-time water-retention ponds. Watersquare Benthemplein contains three stepped, sunken basins that double up as water storage areas in the wetter months. Two basins allow the water to seep into the groundwater, while a third, an overflow that only receives water after prolonged rain, releases its stormwater into the sewers. In addition to other water-collecting features, Los Angeles County is pioneering large basins called “spreading grounds”, located in areas that are gravelly, rocky or sandy, allowing water to percolate. Currently 27 in number, they are bordered by embankments and can be several hectares in size or larger. The Tujunga Spreading Grounds in the suburb of Sun Valley occupy a vast area of 0.6 square kilometres. Depaving Depave is the name of a hands-on grassroots group that began in 2008 in Portland, Oregon, a US city with a reputation for being ultra-progressive. Its mission is, with the blessing of the owners, to replace hard surface areas such as unused edges of car parks with gardens. It has positioned itself as an anti-racist environmental justice organisation, engaging with the issue of urban heat islands that are worse in poorer neighbourhoods with a higher African-American population. One important element is a commitment by locals to manage and maintain the sites into the future. The group has depaved more than 33,000 square metres, which results in 24.5 million gallons of water being diverted from storm drains every year. The scale of what such a community-based endeavour can achieve may seem insignificant in proportion to the scale of the challenge. Yet its most powerful effects may be in shifting attitudes, encouraging replication, and even leveraging action at a city-wide local government level. Today, Depave is in touch with a network of similar groups, including Green Venture in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, which operates along very similar lines. These ideas are receiving support from some local governments, such as the Belgian city of Leuven, which is focusing its depaving activities in the suburban district of Spaanse Kroon. The municipal authorities operate a small truck called a “tile taxi” that collects pavers and cobbles for free so that they can

Taking control of your health involves having the courage to engage in honest, and sometimes difficult, conversations with your doctor. Here we take a look at how to move beyond the traditional doctor relationship and become empowered to advocate for yourself. Are you proactive when it comes to your health? Do you have regular check-ups and monitor changes in how you feel? Are you comfortable discussing topics like sexual health and emotional well-being with your doctor? Or do you find yourself skipping appointments because you’re too busy or too uncomfortable to bring up certain issues? Your relationship with your primary doctor is an important and sometimes overlooked element of your healthcare journey. However, people often hold back due to reluctance, embarrassment or self-neglect. Taking a holistic approach to your health, however, involves making time for yourself, building a good rapport with your doctor and being open to meaningful discussions about your health-related concerns. Empowering yourself as a patient Taking a holistic approach to your health means being an active participant in your health care decisions. If something is bothering you, or interfering with your daily life, it’s important to prioritise yourself and make an appointment with your doctor. It can also be helpful to come prepared. Particularly when it involves complicated health issues. This gives you the confidence to ask questions so you can gain a good understanding of your condition. Then you are part of the decision-making process moving forward. How much research is too much? With the internet offering an overwhelming amount of medical information, finding the balance between being informed and over-researched can be challenging. Online medical content can lead to unnecessary anxiety and google can lead you down rabbit holes of misinformation. Taking health advice from unverified sources can result in misguided diagnoses and decisions, or worse, the adoption of dangerous trends. Psychologist Carly Dober warns about these dangers. “People will pop their symptoms into Google, or search Instagram or TikTok content and diagnose their own conditions (often incorrectly) and engage in a treatment plan they’ve found online which can have quite serious consequences”, she explains. “With the barrier to entry being incredibly low for making content online, it’s important to be discerning,” Dober explains. “Often, people create emotionally persuasive content to grow their following, but much of the time, this information can be wrong. At its best, it’s incorrect; at its worst, it can be fatal.” Health advice should come from medical professionals or practitioners who are credentialed, licensed, and educated in the relevant field. Social media is rife with “healthwashing” – a form of deceptive marketing that promotes products as being healthier than they are. Dober recommends turning instead to reputable national health organisations such as government health bodies or the World Health Organisation. Intentionally following these sources can also help ensure your algorithm is providing accurate, evidence-based information. As people increase their levels of health literacy, they naturally begin to place greater importance on where health information originates from and the research and data that support it. Consider asking your doctor for guidance on where to find credible health advice. A simple request for recommended reading can lead you to reliable sources and empower you to make informed decisions about your health. Instead of researching possible scenarios before your appointment, focus on preparing specific questions for your doctor, such as: What could be the cause of my symptoms? Are there lifestyle changes or preventative steps I should consider? Can you explain the significance of my blood test results?  What are the risks, benefits and possible side effects of this treatment? Are there any alternative treatments or specialists I should consider seeing? These questions are a starting point; supplement them with your own. Approaching sensitive subjects According to Dr Gillian Deakin, a Sydney-based general practitioner and the author of What The Hell is Wrong with Me?, an understanding of the patient’s medical history and family history are required for the doctor to provide a high level of care. Past surgical procedures, medications and allergies along with an understanding of the patient’s mental and sexual health, are important to provide and a relationship where trust has been built makes the process of sharing this information much easier. Building trust with your doctor involves having courageous conversations and a clear and open line of communication. Many people feel hesitant bringing up sensitive issues during appointments, but this can hinder early detection and treatment of potentially serious health problems. According to Dober, one of the best ways to approach these conversations is to remember the purpose of the appointment and the role of the health professional. “I remind people that while this is one appointment for them, the health professional may have up to 20 similar appointments that day, many of which are personal and difficult for the client to talk about,” says Dober. While you may feel embarrassed or shy, you’re not alone in this experience. Deakin advises that if you feel uncomfortable bringing up certain topics, write your concerns down before the appointment. This ensures you cover everything you want to address without hesitation. Dober agrees, “I encourage people to take in notes, either in written form or in their phone, about what their symptoms are, and what they would like to discuss. This way they don’t leave the appointment without their concerns being communicated,” she advises. Role playing with close friends or family if you’re unsure about how to raise a topic is another of Dober’s suggestions. Consider bringing in a support person if you feel unable to have the conversation independently. “The vast majority of health professionals truly want to help you in the best way they can, and they will work with you in order to do so”, assures Dober. How important are regular check-ups? Deakin recommends seeing your doctor annually, even if you’re not unwell. “There are many things that need attention,” she says, including vaccinations, cardiovascular checks and monitoring any hereditary risks based on your family history. Regular health checkups

AyurScience is redefining natural wellness by blending ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific research. We spoke with one of the founding pharmacist brothers to learn more about the brand’s origins, its unique philosophy, and how it’s delivering trusted, effective herbal health and skincare solutions. What was the inspiration behind AyurScience, and how did the brand come to life? AyurScience was inspired by the desire to bridge ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific research to deliver effective, herbal health and skincare solutions. The brand was founded by pharmacist brothers with a background in pharmacology, who saw the growing need for natural remedies that are both clinically backed and rooted in traditional healing. Key motivations behind AyurScience’s creation include: Holistic Healing: A belief in the power of Ayurvedic principles to support whole-body wellness, treating not just symptoms but addressing underlying imbalances. Efficacy & Evidence: A commitment to using ingredients with proven benefits, backed by scientific research and pharmacological understanding. Modern Wellness Needs: Meeting the demand for efficacious, plant-based alternatives that are safe, effective, and aligned with contemporary health-conscious lifestyles. Trusted Formulations: Offering transparency and trust through pharmacist-formulated products that combine nature’s wisdom with modern expertise. AyurScience was ultimately created to help people feel confident choosing natural remedies, knowing they are not just traditional, but also tested, trusted, and truly effective. How does the brand integrate ancient Ayurvedic principles with modern scientific research? AyurScience integrates ancient Ayurvedic principles with modern scientific research to create herbal solutions that are both time-honoured and evidence-backed. At the core of the brand’s philosophy is the use of traditional Ayurvedic herbs such as Amla, Tulsi, Saffron, and Ginger —each known for their therapeutic properties in balancing the body’s natural systems. These ingredients are carefully selected and formulated by pharmacists with a background in pharmacology and cosmetic chemists, ensuring that the traditional wisdom is applied with clinical precision and efficacy. To bridge the gap between tradition and modern wellness, AyurScience uses standardised herbal extracts and clinically relevant doses. The brand’s proprietary AyurActive™ Ingredient Complex exemplifies this approach—merging potent Ayurvedic botanicals with scientifically validated formulations. With a focus on efficacy, consistency, and results, AyurScience empowers consumers to choose herbal remedies grounded in both ancient healing systems and the rigor of modern science. Can you elaborate on the Ayur-Active™ Ingredient Complex and its role in your skincare products? The AyurActive™ Ingredient Complex is a signature blend developed by AyurScience that embodies the brand’s commitment to combining traditional Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific innovation. This proprietary complex features potent Ayurvedic botanicals—most notably Amla (Indian Gooseberry) and Tulsi (Holy Basil)—which are rich in natural antioxidants, vitamins, and bioactive compounds. These ingredients have been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for their rejuvenating, purifying, and protective properties. In AyurScience skincare products, the AyurActive™ Complex plays a central role in delivering targeted skin benefits. Amla, a natural source of Vitamin C, helps brighten the complexion, support collagen synthesis, and protect against oxidative stress, while Tulsi offers powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help calm irritated skin and maintain a clear, balanced complexion. By using standardised extracts in optimal concentrations, the complex ensures consistent efficacy across all formulations. The AyurActive™ Complex is carefully integrated into each product to support the skin’s natural functions—whether it is clearing blemishes, reducing pigmentation, or strengthening the skin barrier. It reflects AyurScience’s holistic philosophy: using nature’s intelligence, guided by modern science, to create skincare that not only treats visible concerns but nurtures overall skin health. What distinguishes AyurScience’s herbal health products, such as Gasnix and Herbitus, from other natural remedies available in the market? AyurScience’s herbal health products—such as Gasnix for digestive relief and Herbitus for cough and respiratory support—stand out in the natural remedies space due to their multi-herbal formulations with synergistic function, combined with a foundation in both Ayurvedic tradition and modern pharmacological science. Unlike many natural products that rely on single herbs or low-potency extracts, AyurScience blends multiple botanicals in carefully balanced ratios to work together harmoniously—amplifying therapeutic effects and delivering more comprehensive relief. Each formulation is pharmacist-developed, using standardised herbal extracts at efficacious doses to ensure consistency, safety, and performance. For example, Gasnix supports digestive comfort by combining Ayurvedic carminatives and gut-soothing herbs that act synergistically to reduce bloating, abdominal pain, flatulence, and wind. Similarly, Herbitus combines six powerful botanicals to deliver a multi-benefit expectorant cough elixir, offering synergistic relief from coughs – delivering both symptom relief and system support. This multi-layered approach ensures targeted yet holistic outcomes that go beyond symptomatic treatment. AyurScience also sets itself apart with a commitment to purity, transparency, and scientific rigor. The products are plant-based, free from unnecessary additives, and reflect a deep respect for nature’s healing potential—elevated by clinical insight. This unique integration of multi-herbal synergy, Ayurvedic intelligence, and scientific formulation is what makes AyurScience a trusted choice for effective, natural healthcare. If a reader was new to your brand, what product in your range should they start with and why? This is a difficult question to answer definitively, as AyurScience is a health issue–specific brand—each product is thoughtfully formulated to target a particular concern, whether it’s digestion, respiratory health, or skin balance. Our approach is not one-size-fits-all; rather, we provide tailored, plant-based solutions rooted in Ayurveda and backed by science to support specific wellness needs. That said, a great starting point for many is Herbitus Cough Relief, especially during colder months or when respiratory support is needed. It exemplifies our core values—multi-herbal synergy, Ayurvedic wisdom, and pharmacist-formulated efficacy—while being gentle, effective, and suitable for the whole family. Herbitus is a great way to experience how AyurScience combines tradition and science to deliver natural relief that works. How does AyurScience ensure the sustainability and ethical sourcing of its ingredients and packaging? At AyurScience, sustainability and ethical sourcing are core to our values—reflecting our deep respect for nature, people, and the long-standing traditions of Ayurveda. We take a conscious, end-to-end approach to ensure that our ingredients and packaging align with environmentally responsible and socially ethical standards. What is one of

When hope seemed lost, WellBeing reader Allison Page turned to daily practices and horses to rebuild her life. “Wow! It sounds like you’ve lived several lives, Ally,” a colleague remarked. I don’t recall what triggered the comment, but I remember my response. “Yeah, I really have,” I said softly. I flinched at a few unwanted memories before lightening the conversation with a goofy joke. Nobody seemed to notice. I’ve gotten pretty good at deflection. They say trauma makes you funny. I guess there are worse coping mechanisms out there. I should know, I’ve tried many of them! My inability to process some big adult themes experienced at a young age resulted in an “off-the- rails” adolescence – school drop out by 16, rehab at 18. Depressive episodes, flashbacks, feeling hopeless and wondering if it would ever get better was the norm. The black dog was my constant. That version of me has been gone for so long now that it’s hard to believe I’m writing about myself. This article, for me, is an acknowledgement that healing doesn’t mean an absence of pain, darkness or triggers; it does mean work and daily practices. It works if you work on it. Once I became sober at 18, I made the daily choice to walk a path towards growth and healing. After exhausting unhealthy coping mechanisms, I threw in the towel and tried a healthier path. These are harder – they require facing issues head on as opposed to avoiding them. My daily practices include one or more of the following: meditation and mindfulness, getting out in nature, turning the phone off and being present, movement (Pilates, hiking, dancing around the house), journalling, piano, calling a friend (someone able to both hold space and communicate when they can’t), self-compassion and self-check in. Once per month, I attend therapy with a trusted psychologist where we predominantly focus on trauma work. My healing toolbox levelled up around the time I reconnected with horses, my self-care anchor. For others, an anchor is nature, gym or something else. For me, it is and always has been horses. They ground me, allow me to see where I’m at on the inside and remind me that I need to lean into feelings and not default to avoidance (such as scrolling through social media, working too much, binge eating and seeking external validation). Not a magic fix, horses nudge me further down my healing path. Turning 40 came with an unexpected resurfacing of painful memories and, with that, flashbacks, immense sadness, self-doubt and feeling unlovable, invisible and a burden. It was harder to feign a smile at work. I got needier in friendships and sensitive to loud noises and bright lights. I felt less confident in almost every area of life. Thankfully, the inner work I’d done and continue to do allowed me to recognise the intensity and uncontrollable feelings for what they were – my PTSD doing its thing. I reached for healthier coping mechanisms and practised self-regulation as best as I could. What didn’t waver was a deep-seated belief that the cloud would pass. Despite these triggers, I came out the other side feeling grateful for friendships, sobriety, family and a job that, while incredibly challenging, is greater than anything I could have imagined for myself. More than anything, I’m grateful for continuing to choose a healing path. I’m not sure I’ll ever fully shake the black dog. Old patterns don’t just disappear. I’m a work-in-progress. Teaching the nervous system it doesn’t need to go into fight or flight because the doorbell rang, someone hasn’t shown consistent behaviour or a car backfired is hard work, and I’m all in to do it. I’ve learned what it feels like to not be anxious all the time, to feel happiness and believe there are good people in this world. Some days I wonder if I’m too broken, but those days are few and I see them for what they are now – an old thought pattern, spawned from trauma. Those are the days I hold on tight and whisper “this too shall pass”. It always does. I wish the younger me could see me now. If I could turn back time and slip a note under that scared, confused little girl’s pillow, here’s what I’d say: I’d tell her what life looks like now and that she’s going to be okay. She is worthy of love and that she is a priority even if she’s not prioritised. Any attention isn’t better than none. Chaos isn’t normal, calm isn’t boring and her spark doesn’t need to be hidden. It’s okay to set a boundary and that being abandoned wasn’t her fault. I’d tell her she’s a fighter and there will come a day where she realises she isn’t just surviving anymore, she’s living. I’m telling this to her now. Article Featured WellBeing Magazine 216 Read More

Fatigue is a common issue, even when you think you’re doing everything right. Despite getting enough sleep, exercising and managing stress, many of us still feel constantly drained. Hidden causes, from caffeine overload to hormonal imbalances and even undiagnosed health conditions, may be silently contributing to your ongoing exhaustion. Discover what’s zapping your energy. You’ve clocked up plenty of snooze time, stuck religiously to your new exercise regime, cut your work hours to reduce stress, but you still feel tired… all the time. Feeling fatigued is not uncommon. In fact, it’s nipping at the heels of many Australians – among them, working parents. A 2021 study by McKinsey & Company reported 62 per cent of employees were feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Exhaustion weighs on our minds, it zaps our energy, impacts on our relationships with those around us and can make us feel depressed. Holly Phillips, author of The Exhaustion Breakthrough, writes that fatigue can have a ripple effect. “When it strikes, it can knock you off your equilibrium or take you down for the count with a barrage of symptoms,” she explains. Among these are “shortness of breath, sluggish digestion, random aches and pains, frequent sinus infections or migraine headaches.” And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Sometimes when we push ourselves beyond our physical and emotional capabilities, our minds, bodies and spirits pay the price. Looming deadlines, juggling way too many balls in the air and being constantly exposed to negative energy can propel us towards an inevitable breaking point. While some causes of fatigue are commonly known, such as poor sleep habits or chronic illnesses, others tend to fly under the radar. Too much caffeine In cafes, bistros, workplaces and kitchens across the nation, there are millions of us blissfully enjoying the heady pick-me-up of a morning brew. We live in a caffeine-infused culture – coffee becomes a social lubricant, an instant pick-me-up and a simple pleasure to be enjoyed, one sip at a time. Worldwide, coffee is the single biggest beverage consumed after water. Caffeine can increase alertness, but it’s a double-edged sword. It can also make it harder to drift off to sleep. Dr Sergi Ferre, a brain scientist, explains that our bodies produce a chemical called adenosine, which builds up during the day. The sleepiness you feel is adenosine, telling your brain when it’s time to rest. Caffeine blocks adenosine from working on brain cells and this prevents you from feeling sleepy. If you feel fatigued, reduce your caffeine intake and source refreshing drinks with lower or no caffeine such as minty iced tea or an energising fruit smoothie. An undiagnosed UTI Urinary tract infections can be caused by an infection in the bladder, ureters and kidneys. Most infections involve the bladder or the lower urinary tract. According to the Advanced Urology Institute, if you have a UTI, you might notice changes in your urine. It could have a strong odour, be cloudy or even tinged with blood. You might also experience a feeling of unexplained pressure apparent in your lower abdomen or pelvic pain. It can also make you feel lethargic. In some cases, however, a feeling of malaise and fatigue can be the only sign of a UTI. If you are feeling a sense of unexplained fatigue, it’s time to pop along to your medical practitioner to rule out an undiagnosed UTI. Who let the air out of my balloon? Perhaps a better question is, why did you let them? Toxic relationships can zap your energy. Sometimes walking away from someone who isn’t good for you is essential for your emotional and physical wellbeing. Kate James, life coach from Total Balance, says we should choose our friends wisely. “After interactions with people who are negative or unkind about others, it can deplete our energy. A different kind of interaction, a positive one with someone, can uplift and energise us,” she says. Being around someone who constantly stresses you causes your body to release hormones that produce physiological changes. This “fight or flight” stress response depletes energy supplies in your body, which can lead to feelings of fatigue. We all have our inner truth, our intuitive knowing that guides us. Choose friendships that nurture your spirit and let go of those that leave you feeling miserable and drained of energy. Tipping point Hormonal imbalances are another potential cause of fatigue. Your body’s endocrine system is responsible for releasing hormones into your bloodstream where they work to regulate mood, development, growth and your metabolism. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can make you feel sluggish and tired, an overactive one (hyperthyroidism) can cause weight loss, rapid heartbeat, mood swings and tiredness. Blood tests can determine if you have an over or underactive thyroid. If your cortisone, testosterone and oestrogen levels are out of balance that can also impact on your sleep, mood and energy levels. Reduce stress where possible. Do what you can to support a healthy microbiome, which maintains your digestive and mental health. This means eating a range of whole, healthy foods, including vegetables and fruits, nuts and legumes. Avoid highly processed and high-fat foods, and those with refined sugars. Fresh is best. Lowered metabolic rate If your body isn’t converting food into energy as optimally as it should, this leads to a sluggish metabolism and feelings of tiredness and fatigue. Eating too few calories also influences your metabolism, as your body can go into starvation mode and you’ll feel low on energy. Skimping on protein can also lead to reduced energy levels. A rise in metabolic rate that happens directly after food is consumed is called the thermic effect of food. This is markedly higher in proteins than carbohydrates or fat. According to Dietitians Australia, women need 0.75g per kilogram of body weight a day of protein, for men its 0.84g per kilogram of body weight. Strength or resistance training is another way to increase your metabolic rate, which in turn can make you feel more energised. Strength training works to

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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Public health officials on July 22 said mosquito samples collected in Anaheim and Garden Grove have tested positive for West Nile virus, the first confirmed virus activity this year. There have been four positive mosquito samples collected in those cities, according to the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District. So