As we head into another new year, we are again confronted with new and/or old (and yet unachieved) New Years’ resolutions. We may even wonder if it’s possible to change what we perceive as ‘bad habits’ after having unsuccessfully attempted to change them many times in the past. Sometimes it is our mind that keeps us locked into old patterns. … Read More
Wishing you a Mindful, Merry Christmas by Loretta Murphy & Dr Ilze Grobler
As we approach Christmas/New Year people report experiencing not only a festive spirit, but also increased levels of stress. The pressure of striving to attain a “happy” mood state at this time of the year can be quite exhausting. We are surrounded by people who love Christmas, decorations abound, Christmas carols are playing and parties are being held. But what … Read More
Carrot and Zucchini Muffins
These delicious vegetable muffins are perfect for a picnic lunch or the weekday lunch box. Carrot and zucchini muffins (makes 12) 2 cups self raising flour 1 carrot, peeled and grated 1 zucchini, grated 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives ¾ cup milk ½ cup olive oil 2 eggs Cracked pepper for seasoning 1. Preheat the oven to 200oC. Lightly grease … Read More
Tzatziki
This super simple dip is quick and easy to prepare with only 3 ingredients. It makes crackers and crudités more interesting, and is delicious served in a wrap with leftover roast lamb, hummus and salad. Tzatziki 1 Lebanese cucumber, finely diced 1 cup Greek yoghurt 1 tbsp finely chopped chives 1. Place the cucumber, yoghurt and chives in a bowl. … Read More
Hummus
This is a low chemical version of hummus, suitable for those on an elimination diet. It is incredibly quick and easy to prepare. It is delicious with crackers or pita crisps, or served in a wrap with leftover roast lamb, salad and tzatziki. Hummus 440 g can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 3 tbsp canola oil 1/3 tsp citric acid Salt … Read More
10 easy ways to include more vegetables every day by Tania Logan Dietitian and Diabetes Educator
We all know we should eat plenty of vegetables, but did you know that only 4% of Australians eat enough vegetables? The average Australian only eats half of what we need. This week is National Nutrition Week, and the aim this year is to encourage everyone to eat more vegetables, and aim for the 5 serves we need each day. … Read More
Celebrating Mental Health Week 2016 – A personal story
If you’re reading this you’ve probably been there – self doubt, lethargy, maybe full blown depression. I’m writing this to celebrate mental health week, and hopefully explain to people that it can happen to anyone. Five years ago I was a confident, optimistic person with a young family and dreams. My life took a downward turn with a failed … Read More
Let’s talk about feelings! – DON’Ts – by Arna Witkowski, Clinical Psychologist, Zest Infusion
It can be very hard to be someone who feels more strongly than others and to behave effectively when experiencing strong emotions. It can also be hard to have a child who feels more strongly than others. In “Let’s talk about feelings! Dos” I discussed things you can try when helping your children understand and manage their strong emotions. “Let’s … Read More
Let’s talk about feelings! – DOs – by Arna Witkowski, Clinical Psychologist, Zest Infusion
This is a guide to show you how to help your children and adolescents deal with their strong emotions. Unlike reading, writing and math, feelings are not something people generally expect to teach their children about. I imagine most of you will be able to work out some of the ways you learned about your own emotions when you were … Read More
Busting Myths with Seeking Psychological Help – By Shannon Moule, Clinical Psychologist Zest Infusion
If what you know about seeing a psychologist comes from TV (e.g., Fraser) or movies (e.g., Good Will Hunting), you may have some misguided conceptions about what goes on in a practicing psychologist’s office. I am here to bust these common myths one by one and actually give you the reality of what it is like to see a psychologist. … Read More