Roadmap to better health in challenging times: October update
This week Greater Sydney began its first steps out of 107 days of lockdown. I hope Melbourne is not too far behind.
These three-and-a-half months have felt very different and a lot harder than last year. So too how I feel about lockdown easing. Last time I was fearful and apprehensive. This time I’m busting to break free but very concerned about the consequences for the most vulnerable people in our society. My coming out of lockdown herbal prescription is full of anxiolytics (calming herbs)!
The lockdown habits I want to keep
But these months have given me an opportunity to embed some positive habits (amongst some not-so-healthy groundhog days) that I want to integrate into life now. Apart from hand washing, I especially like the impetuous to walk every day but with different types of walks to keep me motivated. What do you want to take from this experience?
Take a look at the habits I plan to keep.
Is there anything positive from this challenging time that you want to embed in your life?
Instagram challenge
Just before the clock struck 6pm on the 23 June, my neighbour played ‘Happy Birthday’ on her bagpipes to a socially distanced group of neighbours quietly celebrating in the lane. So began the longest, mostly solo, lockdown in my life.
The challenge I set myself this time was to document my life during this historic time, posting at least one photo on Instagram every day. They’re mostly moments of pleasure on my daily walks, plants, street art and Therapy Cat. It’s hyperlocal and very domestic but I’ve enjoyed documenting this era. Thanks for all the messages of encouragement for this project!
Recipe: pineapple shrub
I love the challenge of zero waste from the food we consume. With the return of pineapple season, I’ve added a recipe with one more hack – pineapple shrub. Shrubs are tangy vinegar-based extracts, added to sparkling water to make a refreshingly healthier drink.
There’s also a new collection of interesting alcohol-free drinks recipes to keep you hydrated through the warm weather.
More new articles
Speaking of spring, since the last newsletter I wrote about celebrating the spring equinox. It’s never too late to honour spring with some seasonal rituals. There’s also a few change-of-season meal suggestions.
Fellow herbalists and naturopaths might be interested in my latest interview with Dr Sue Evans about herbal ethics and culture. If you’re a practitioner, I have an additional (less frequent) mentoring newsletter you might be interested in as well.
Hello Melbourne
Riots, earthquakes, hailstorms and now crowned the lockdown capital of the word! Melbourne, these past 19 months have been unbelievable. Talking with clients, colleagues and friends in Victoria, I know this is an incredibly traumatic time.
The impact of these prolonged stresses on mental and physical health is huge. A recent US study found a marked increase in depression, anxiety and psychological distress when people come out of lockdown. Interestingly men were more prone to depression, while women experienced anxiety.
Please be kind to yourself over the coming months. Try to be curious, rather than judgemental, about your thoughts and habits. If you need any additional support, I’m here for you. Don’t forget, if we’ve worked together any time in the past 30 years you only need to book a regular follow-up consultation, not an initial session.
BTW being based in Sydney, I work on Melbourne Cup day and still have consultations for naturopathy and mentoring available for 2nd of November!
I wonder what our world will look like in another month? Let’s find out when November’s newsletter lands in another four weeks.
Kia kaha/stay strong
Gill
Similar Posts:
