Men’s Health Isn’t Just Gym Gains - It’s Mental Health Too ByKirsty McMasterWhen people hear the term men's health, most think of exercise, protein shakes, and gym routines. While physical activity plays a role, that view barely scratches the surface.Category:Mental Health, Stress and Anxiety, Self-Care, Depression, LonelinessRead MoreWrite a Comment
Vaping vs Smoking - Clearing the Air on Health ImpactsByKirsty McMasterFor decades, the health risks of smoking have been widely known. Cigarettes have been linked to cancer, heart disease, and countless other preventable illnesses. As public awareness has grown, so too has the push to quit smoking altogether.Category:Healthy Lifestyle, Healthy Living, Quitting SmokingRead MoreWrite a Comment
Meat-Free, Not Protein-Free - Top Vegetarian Protein SourcesByKirsty McMasterWhether you're cutting back on meat, swapping out a few meals a week, or going plant-based full-time, the interest in vegetarian living is growing fast. Contrary to outdated assumptions, going meat-free doesn’t mean missing out on protein.Category:Recipes, Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle, Healthy LivingRead MoreWrite a Comment
How to Boost Your Immune System to Recover FasterByKirsty McMasterYour immune system is like your body’s personal security. It’s always on, quietly working in the background to spot and fight off anything that could make you sick. But when you’re feeling run-down, stressed, or not eating well, it can start to struggle.Lack of sleep, too much alcohol, smoking, poor nutrition, and everyday stress can all chip away at your immune defence. Even forgetting to drink enough water can slow your recovery when you're not feeling your best.The good news? There are simple, actionable steps you can take - starting with how you eat, move, rest, and manage stress. Whether you’re trying to shake off a cold or avoid getting sick altogether, these small changes can make a real difference. Category:Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle, Healthy Living, Healthy Sleep Practices, Self-Care, Flu VaccinationsRead MoreWrite a Comment
Sweat It Out or Chill Out? A Sauna vs Ice Bath ComparisonByKirsty McMaster04 March 2025Hot or cold - what’s your recovery style? Some people swear by the intense heat of a sauna, while others embrace the shock of an ice bath. These two extremes might seem worlds apart, but they both offer powerful benefits for recovery, circulation, and overall wellness. Saunas use heat therapy to relax muscles, improve blood flow, and promote detoxification through sweating. Meanwhile, ice baths harness cold therapy to reduce inflammation, speed up muscle recovery, and boost resilience.While each method works differently, they’re both used by athletes, wellness enthusiasts, and those looking to optimise their health. So, when it comes to sauna vs ice bath use, which one is right for you? Let’s break down the science, benefits, and best use cases for each.Category:Healthy Lifestyle, Healthy LivingRead MoreWrite a Comment
How Much Sleep Do You Really Need Before a Long Drive?ByKirsty McMasterBefore you hit the road, keep in mind that the difference between arriving safely and a dangerously close call can be as simple as getting quality sleep.Category:Healthy Sleep Practices, Weekend Road TripsRead MoreWrite a Comment
Bedtime Battler – Finding Balance for Better Sleep ByAmanda Slinger26 November 2024If you’re always feeling “wired but tired” you might be a Bedtime Battler – someone who constantly operates in a state of ‘on’—navigating endless to-do lists, competing commitments, and the relentless demands of daily life.Category:Healthy Sleep PracticesRead MoreWrite a Comment
Doona Dodger – Getting in Rhythm with your Sleep Routine ByAmanda Slinger26 November 2024It looks like you may be a ‘Doona Dodger’— someone who struggles to keep a consistent rhythm with their sleep schedule. But hey, you’re not alone!Category:Healthy Sleep PracticesRead MoreWrite a Comment
Rest Rebel – Knowing When to Go to SleepByAmanda Slinger26 November 2024If you struggle to go to bed when you know you should - you might be a Rest Rebel – someone who resists bedtime and short-sheets their need for sleep by staying up later.Category:Healthy Sleep PracticesRead MoreWrite a Comment
Take Action Against Skin Cancer - Get to Know Your MolesByDr. Michela Sorensen04 February 2025An alarming two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70. Like most health issues, the key lies in early detection, with 90% of melanomas able to be treated with surgery if found early. The most important thing you can do is to “get to know the skin you’re in”. Know your moles, what to look out for, and when to see a doctor – it may just save your life.Category:General MedicalRead MoreWrite a Comment
How is World Cancer Day Shaping The Fight Against Cancer?ByKirsty McMaster01 February 2025Every year on 4th February, the world unites for one very important cause - fighting cancer. World Cancer Day, an initiative led by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), isn’t just another date on the calendar. It’s a movement with a mission: to raise global awareness, improve education, and inspire action across every level of society.Category:General Medical, Healthy LifestyleRead MoreWrite a Comment
Is Urgent Care Faster and Smarter Than the ER?ByKirsty McMasterWhen you’re unwell or injured, every minute feels longer. Do you head to the emergency room or visit an urgent care clinic? The choice isn’t always clear, but it can make a big difference in your wait time, medical bills, and overall experience.Category:General Medical, Emergency Care, Member Value, St. John Urgent Care, Injury and RehabilitationRead MoreWrite a Comment
Is It Gastro or Food Poisoning? How to Tell the DifferenceByKirsty McMasterSo, let's address the elephant in the room; was it just a dodgy meal, or something more serious? That queasy, uneasy feeling in your stomach can be a real mystery. Food poisoning and gastroenteritis often look and feel alike - nausea, diarrhoea, stomach cramps - but they’re not the same thing. Knowing the difference could save you time, discomfort, and maybe even a trip to the doctor.Category:General Medical, Conditions and TreatmentsRead MoreWrite a Comment
Is Alcohol a Depressant? Understanding the Effects on Your Mood and MindByKirsty McMasterIs alcohol a depressant or a stimulant? Well, there's no doubt that it's often a misunderstood topic. It's no secret that many of us enjoy relaxing with a glass of wine after a long day or sharing a casual drink with friends on the weekend. It can help us unwind, feel more social, or even provide a temporary boost in mood.Category:Healthy Lifestyle, Healthy Living, Stress and Anxiety, Self-CareRead MoreWrite a Comment
Breast Cancer Awareness - How to Examine your Own Breasts ByDr. Michela Sorensen02 October 2024October is Breast Cancer awareness month, a time to shine the spotlight on all things breast health. Early detection of breast cancer provides the best chance at effective treatment. The key to early detection is remaining vigilant with breast cancer screening and self breast checks. Over 80% of women however, don’t feel confident in doing a self breast examination. So, time for a quick rundown of how to do it and what you’re looking for. Category:General Medical, Healthy Living, Later in LifeRead MoreWrite a Comment
The Difference Between Osteo, Physio, and Chiro - Which is Right for You?ByKirsty McMasterUnsurprisingly, people tend to face confusion when it comes to choosing between osteopathy, physiotherapy, and chiropractic care. Each therapy has a unique focus and targets different aspects of musculoskeletal health, but it's a space that can be tricky to navigate. Thankfully, that’s where we come in.Category:Fitness, Healthy Lifestyle, Physiotherapy, Healthy Living, Member Value, Extras Cover, Conditions and Treatments, Injury and RehabilitationRead MoreWrite a Comment
Spicy Mushroom Noodles Recipe BySimon Toohey 05 September 2024This mushroom noodle soup is a nourishing and wholesome recipe, perfect for warming the body on cold winter days. Rich with earthy mushrooms, tender noodles, and a flavorful broth infused with aromatic herbs, this soup is both comforting and satisfying. Each spoonful brings warmth, making it an ideal dish to cozy up with when the temperatures drop. Category:Recipes, Healthy LivingRead MoreWrite a Comment
10 Habits for A Healthy Brain ByDr. Michela Sorensen13 June 2024While becoming a bit forgetful might be a normal part of aging, the thought of dementia can be quite worrying for a lot of people. The good news - there are some very simple things you can be doing now to look after your brain health and reduce your risk of dementia. Category:Mental Health, Later in Life, DementiaRead MoreWrite a Comment
Transform Your Life with Self-Gratitude - Daily Habits for Inner PeaceByPaula Ortiz01 June 2024"Gratitude is the ability to experience life as a gift. It liberates us from the prison of self-preoccupation." — John OrtbergCategory:Mental Health, Healthy Lifestyle, Healthy Living, Stress and Anxiety, Self-CareRead MoreWrite a Comment
Is it time for a digital detox? ByDr Gina Cleo14 May 2024Excessive phone use has become an increasingly prevalent unwanted habit in today's digital age, with Australians spending an average of 8-9 hours a day on screens. This leads to physical inactivity, mindless eating, and social disconnection. To counteract this, setting digital boundaries and engaging in offline activities are vital for reclaiming balance and well-being. See article for practical tips on how to create healthier digital habits. Category:Mental Health, Healthy Living, Healthy Sleep PracticesRead MoreWrite a Comment
Mental Wellbeing and Pets The Science Behind Why We Feel Good Around Our Furry Friends ByDr. Claire Stevens14 May 2024Why is it that we feel so great around our pets? Dr Claire Stevens discusses how interactions with our furry friends release oxytocin, reduce stress hormones, and boost neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Category:Mental Health, Pet Health, Caring for Your Furry FriendRead MoreWrite a Comment
Looking Out for Our Kid’s Mental Health ByDr. Michela Sorensen07 October 2023Mental illness is not just an adult issue. We know more and more young children are struggling with their mental health. In fact, up to 20 per cent of children experience mental health issues. It can be hard enough for adult to talk about this, let alone 5-year-olds. So, let’s look at some of the warning signs that a child might be struggling with their mental health. Category:Mental Health, Family First, Raising ChildrenRead MoreWrite a Comment
Why Your Child Should Have an Annual Check Up ByDr. Michela Sorensen15 May 2023Do you really need to worry about taking your child to the doctor when they are well? The short answer is YES. Just like we recommend adults have an annual check, children should too. Not only does it provide the perfect opportunity to discuss all those questions you wouldn’t necessarily make an appoint for, but it also helps the child establish confidence and trust with their doctor. Doing this early on in life puts children in a great position when it comes to taking care of their health later in life. Category:General Medical, Family First, Raising ChildrenRead MoreWrite a Comment
What is Egg Freezing? How to Know if it’s the Right Option for YouByTammy George15 November 2022Choosing to freeze your eggs to use later when you’re ready to be pregnant can be a life-changing decision. Here’s what you should know. Category:General Medical, Family First, PregnancyRead MoreWrite a Comment
How to Choose Safe Toys for Your Baby or Toddler This Christmas TimeByTammy George13 October 2021Keep your little one entertained with toys they love and won’t cause any safety hazards this Christmas. Here’s what you should look out for when choosing presents.Category:General Medical, Family FirstRead MoreWrite a Comment