by Feeling Great | Energy/Fatigue, Weight Loss
4 Ways to Get Your New Year’s Health Resolutions Back on Track
New Year’s Health Resolutions – Is Your Motivation Fading?
Did you start the year with big health goals, determined that this time would be different? Maybe you planned to boost your energy, lose weight, or finally take control of your wellness. But now, just weeks in, are you losing momentum?
If your resolutions feel like they’re slipping away, don’t worry! You can still turn things around. Here are four simple yet powerful strategies to help you stay on track.
4 Strategies for your New Year’s Health Resolutions
1. Find Your Why
When faced with temptation, a strong personal reason for your goal makes all the difference.
- Do you want to feel more energetic for your kids?
- Are you preparing for a big event?
- Do you want to regain confidence and feel your best?
Research shows that self-motivated goals are far more likely to be achieved. Remind yourself daily of why you started, and you’ll find it easier to stay committed.
2. Set SMART Goals
Clear, structured goals make success easier. That’s why SMART goals work so well:
- Specific – Define exactly what you want
- Measurable – Track your progress
- Attainable – Set realistic targets
- Relevant – Align with your personal needs
- Time-based – Have a deadline to stay accountable
Studies show that people who set specific weight loss goals lose more weight than those who don’t. In fact, goal setters are 10 times more likely to achieve long-term success!
For more information and assistance with creating your own SMART goals for the New Year, read this blog. Highlighting this, a recent study found that people who set a specific weight loss goal lost an average of 1.5 kg more than those who didn’t.
In another study, it was also found that goal setters were 10 times more likely to lose 10 per cent of their original body weight than non-goal setters. It should be noted that participants in both studies received coaching from qualified healthcare professionals,[4],[5 highlighting the importance of seeking help from a qualified Practitioner. Need help click here to book online.
3. Track Your Progress
Keeping a record of your journey is key. Monitoring your diet, workouts, and weight gives real-time feedback and keeps you motivated.
- Use a food journal or app to track meals
- Weigh yourself regularly
- Keep a progress photo album
This simple habit helps you stay accountable and make adjustments when needed.
When trying to lose weight, tracking your diet and exercise, and regularly weighing yourself, gives real time feedback that helps you stick to your resolution.[6]
4. Get Professional Support
Seeking expert guidance can greatly increase your chances of success. Studies show that working with a health professional leads to better weight management and long-term health improvements.
A practitioner can:
- Help you create a plan that fits your lifestyle
- Provide personalized nutrition and exercise advice
- Support you through setbacks and challenges
Research shows that health goals are easier to reach if they are set with the help of a Practitioner.[7] This is because your Practitioner can help you identify and implement strategies to reach your goal in a safe and healthy way, as well as helping you anticipate and deal with obstacles and setbacks.
For example, problem-solving therapy results in greater losses in body weight, including long-term weight reductions.[8]
If you’re serious about smashing your health goals, don’t go it alone. Book a consultation today and take the first step toward real, lasting change.
Your success starts now—commit to making this year your healthiest yet!
How about a turning your New Year’s Resolution in Action? Read this Blog now!
by Feeling Great | Adrenal Health
7 Powerful Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy
Why Infrared Sauna Therapy Are a Game-Changer for Your Health
Sweating is one of the most effective ways to detoxify your body and improve circulation. Your skin is often called the “third kidney” because it plays a huge role in eliminating toxins.
But what if you can’t exercise due to an injury or health condition? That’s where infrared sauna therapy comes in. It allows you to sweat effortlessly, providing a wide range of health benefits, from pain relief and detoxification to relaxation and weight loss.
Many people, including those with chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and recurring infections, swear by infrared saunas for recovery and overall well-being.
Let’s dive into the seven key benefits of infrared sauna therapy!
1. Strengthens Your Immune System
Raising your body temperature in an infrared sauna mimics a fever, triggering your immune system to respond. This process encourages the production of white blood cells and antibodies, giving your immune system a natural boost.
🔥 Great for:
- Fighting lingering infections
- Recovering from colds and viruses
- Supporting overall immune health
If you frequently feel run-down or fatigued, regular infrared sauna sessions can help your body defend itself.
2. Promotes Deep Relaxation & Better Sleep
We all know that warmth helps us relax, but infrared saunas take this to the next level. By improving circulation and heart rate, they create a mild cardiovascular effect, similar to light exercise.
🧘 How it helps:
- Releases endorphins and serotonin (the “happy hormones”)
- Promotes a sense of calm and well-being
- Supports better sleep patterns
Feeling stressed or struggling with sleep? Try an infrared sauna session before bed to wind down and relax.
3. Powerful Detoxification
Detoxing isn’t just about what you eat—it’s also about what you sweat out. Sweating is one of the body’s primary detox pathways, alongside breathing, urination, and digestion.
🚀 Infrared saunas are up to 7x more effective than traditional saunas at eliminating toxins like:
- Heavy metals (mercury, lead, aluminum)
- Environmental chemicals
- Processed food toxins
For a deeper detox, combine infrared sauna sessions with a nutrition-based detox program. You’ll feel energized, clear-headed, and lighter!
4. Enhances Circulation & Muscle Recovery
Infrared heat boosts blood flow, improving oxygen delivery to muscles and tissues. This process reduces inflammation and helps with faster recovery after workouts or injuries.
💪 Great for:
- Athletes looking to improve performance
- Reducing post-exercise soreness
- Supporting muscle and joint health
If you suffer from chronic pain, arthritis, or inflammation, regular sauna use can help ease discomfort naturally.
5. Natural Pain Relief
Infrared heat expands blood vessels, increasing oxygen flow to joints, muscles, and tissues. This speeds up healing and reduces pain by flushing out toxins more efficiently.
🌟 Pain conditions that benefit from infrared sauna therapy:
- Arthritis & joint pain
- Fibromyalgia & muscle tension
- Headaches & migraines
- Sports injuries & chronic pain
Sauna sessions also trigger the release of endorphins, which naturally reduce pain and improve mood.
6. Improves Skin Health & Gives You a Glow
Clear, radiant skin is a natural byproduct of infrared sauna therapy. The deep heat increases blood flow to the skin, helping to:
Benefits for your skin:
- Detoxify clogged pores
- Reduce acne & breakouts
- Improve skin elasticity & hydration
- Enhance collagen production
Your skin will feel softer, smoother, and healthier after just a few sessions!
7. Supports Weight Loss & Metabolism
Did you know a 30-minute infrared sauna session can burn up to 600 calories?
How it works:
- Increases heart rate, similar to light cardio
- Burns energy as your body works to cool down
- Boosts metabolism over time
Since infrared saunas help remove toxins stored in fat cells, they can also aid in fat loss when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
How Do Infrared Saunas Work?
Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air around you, infrared saunas use infrared rays to directly heat your body. This allows for:
- Deeper detoxification (7x more effective than steam saunas)
- More comfortable heat levels (you can stay in longer)
- Better overall health benefits
Infrared Saunas Offer Full-Spectrum Therapy
There are three levels of infrared heat, each offering unique benefits:
- 🔴 Near-infrared → Best for wound healing & immune function
- 🟠 Middle-infrared → Ideal for weight loss & muscle recovery
- 🔵 Far-infrared → Used for detoxification & relaxation
Who Should Avoid Infrared Saunas?
While infrared saunas are safe for most people, it’s best to consult your doctor if you have:
- ⚠ Pacemakers or medical implants
- ⚠ Certain medications (especially skin patches)
- ⚠ Pregnancy
- ⚠ Silicone implants
How to Get Started with Infrared Sauna Therapy
For best results, start slowly to let your body adjust to the heat.
🕒 Begin with 30-minute sessions 1-3 times per week.
🔥 Gradually increase to 45 minutes as you build tolerance.
💧 Stay hydrated before and after each session.
Many people, like Tom from Private Sea, find that regular sauna use helps them fight off colds and viruses. He swears by daily infrared sauna sessions for two weeks when he feels under the weather!
My Personal Favorite: The Private Sea Float Centre
When I want to unwind and recharge, I head to The Private Sea Float Centre. Pairing an infrared sauna with a float session or massage is my go-to self-care treat. It also makes a fantastic gift for someone in need of relaxation!
Self-care is essential in today’s fast-paced world. Taking time for yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
You can also read Adrenal Fatigue: A Growing Epidemic or you can read this Autoimmune Disease topic about Sick of Side Effects of Rheumatoid Arthritis Medication? Discover 5 Natural Alternatives and If you’ve found this article helpful, please share it with someone who could benefit from it!
CLICK HERE to book a session with me and start your self-care essential!
by Feeling Great | Gut Health
Histamine Intolerance – Recognizing the Symptoms and Causes
Do you often experience skin rashes, headaches, or nausea after certain foods or drinks? Maybe you’ve noticed frequent hay fever or diarrhoea that you can’t explain. If this sounds familiar, you may be dealing with histamine intolerance.
For example, Joanna faced constant red blotches on her skin, along with headaches, hay fever, and stomach cramps. Despite being in her twenties, these symptoms were embarrassing and frustrating. Does this resonate with you or someone you know?
What is Histamine Intolerance?
Histamine intolerance occurs when the body has trouble breaking down histamines, leading to a build-up. This is similar to a clogged sink, where histamines accumulate faster than they can be processed. As a result, you may experience symptoms like skin rashes, headaches, and digestive issues. My goal is to help clear this blockage and restore your balance.
What are Histamines?
Histamines are natural amino acids found in certain foods like aged cheese, smoked fish, and citrus fruits. While histamine is also produced in the body to support immune functions, fermented or preserved foods can trigger an intolerance. For example, red wine and aged cheese can cause hay fever-like symptoms because of the histamine they contain.
Common Symptoms of Histamine Intolerance
Histamine intolerance symptoms often resemble allergic reactions. These include:
- Skin rashes
- Hay fever-like symptoms
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Headaches
- Fatigue
When Do Symptoms Appear?
Symptoms depend on the histamine load in your body. If you consume large amounts of histamine-rich foods in a short period, symptoms may occur immediately. On the other hand, if you eat smaller amounts over time, symptoms could appear several hours later.
Histamine Intolerance vs. Allergy
Unlike an allergy, which occurs at the mere presence of a substance, an intolerance depends on the amount consumed. Think of it as a bucket—your body can handle a certain amount before symptoms occur. This explains why symptoms can vary from one person to the next.
Healthy Histamine Metabolism
Normally, diamino oxidase (DAO), an enzyme found in your gut, breaks down histamine. However, deficiencies in DAO can lead to histamine build-up. Alcohol, certain medications (like antidepressants), and poor gut health can affect DAO levels, exacerbating histamine intolerance.
How to Manage Histamine Intolerance
To manage histamine intolerance, it’s important to:
- Avoid high-histamine foods
- Address gut dysfunction caused by stress, infection, or dysbiosis
- Support DAO production with vitamins B6, C, zinc, and copper
- Balance your gut microbiome by reducing harmful bacteria
- Consider natural compounds, such as quercetin, which support histamine metabolism
Reintroducing histamine-rich foods should be done gradually, once your gut health and histamine tolerance are restored.
By following these steps, you can improve your quality of life and better tolerate foods that once caused discomfort.
Understanding and knowledge can help you feel empowered to regaining your health, but can feel overwhelming if you didn’t major in biology or biochemistry.
Need help applying all this knowledge to your body in an easy and doable way? I’m here if you need a guiding hand or have any questions. Click here to book online.
I want to share this information with you as well! the Feeling Unwell and Tired all the Time and the 3 Ways to Kick Your Sugar Cravings for Good and If you know anyone who would benefit from this information, please share it.
Julie xo (Feeling Great Naturopath, Mt Martha)
by Feeling Great | Healthy Ageing
5 Tips to Get Back Into Exercise After an Injury or Illness
Finding Your Strength Again – Exercise After an Injury or Illness
Staying active can be a challenge on its own, but returning to exercise after an injury or illness can feel overwhelming. Many people worry about making their condition worse or not knowing where to begin.
Jeanette found herself in this exact situation. She had been struggling with plantar fasciitis for eight months. Every morning, she hobbled out of bed, hoping the pain would disappear. She kept telling herself she’d return to exercise once she felt better, but that day never seemed to come.
When we started working together, we focused on modifying her routine—starting small and building up gradually. In six weeks, her pain had reduced by half. After four months, she was completely pain-free and 10 kilos lighter.
💬 “I can’t believe how much better I feel! Looking back, I realize I could have stayed stuck forever. Thank you so much for your help.” – Jeanette
If you’re struggling to get back into exercise after a setback, here are five ways to modify your approach and regain your fitness safely.
1. Get Outside and Take It Slow
Fresh air, sunshine, and movement are a powerful combination. Start with gentle activities that feel good for your body.
- Try a short walk, light stretching, or swimming
- Ease back into movement to prevent further injury
- Choose activities you enjoy, so you stay consistent
Jumping straight into intense exercise can cause setbacks. Instead, listen to your body and progress at your own pace.
2. Pain Is Your Friend—Listen to It
At first, this might seem confusing. But pain is your body’s way of communicating with you.
- If something hurts, slow down
- Pay attention to warning signs and avoid pushing too hard
- Remember to stretch, rest, and recover
Ignoring pain can lead to more injuries. Instead, treat it as valuable feedback and adjust your movements accordingly.
3. Nutrition and Hydration Are Key
Your body needs proper fuel to heal and regain strength. Eating the right foods and staying hydrated can make a huge difference in your recovery.
- Focus on anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats
- Stay hydrated to support muscle repair and energy levels
- Consider supplements if needed for extra nutritional support
💡 Need a guide to reduce inflammation and speed up recovery? Click here for more tips.
4. Work on Your Balance
Many people overlook balance when recovering from an injury, but it’s a crucial part of regaining strength.
- Injuries can weaken muscle control and joint stability
- Practicing balance exercises reduces the risk of re-injury
- Strengthen the muscles around the injured area before returning to full activity
Slow and steady improvements build confidence and help prevent future setbacks.
5. Get a Plan and a Support Team
Having the right support makes all the difference. A qualified trainer or health professional can guide you through a safe, structured return to fitness.
Jeanette’s progress improved dramatically when she:
- Got proper footwear and orthotics
- Saw an osteopath for regular check-ins
- Worked with a trainer who adjusted her program
Her trainer, Emma, helped her stay on track with modifications, strength-building, and encouragement. Having someone to guide your progress ensures safety, motivation, and long-term success.
💡 Looking for expert guidance? Click here to connect with Emma at Step Into Life Mornington and try 3 FREE classes!
Ready to Get Unstuck?
Healing takes time, but you don’t have to do it alone. Start small, listen to your body, and build gradually.
You can read this too! the Taking Back Your Power or this Protect Your Greatest Asset and If you found these tips helpful, share this with someone who needs encouragement on their journey back to fitness. 💛
CLICK HERE to book session with me!
by Feeling Great | Energy/Fatigue, Mental Wellbeing
7 Major Benefits of Floating
Why Is Floating Gaining Popularity?
Floating has been around for decades, but recently, it’s getting more attention for its powerful health benefits. More people are discovering how it can reduce stress, improve sleep, and even relieve chronic pain.
Origins of Floating
The idea of floating in saltwater for therapeutic benefits isn’t new. It has been used for years, but over the past five years, it has made a strong comeback.
Back in the 1950s, neuroscientist John C. Lilly studied the effects of sensory deprivation on anxiety, addiction, and stress. Seeing impressive results, he developed a commercial float tank that made floating accessible to more people.
Floating became popular in the 1960s, but concerns over water cleanliness slowed its growth in the 1970s. Despite this, researchers continued studying its effects. Today, float centers are everywhere, including my favorite one—The Private Sea in Mornington.
So, why should you try floating? Here are seven major health benefits that might convince you.
1. Floating Lowers Stress
One of the biggest reasons people float is stress relief. Floating helps in two ways:
- The magnesium in the water lowers stress hormones like cortisol
- Sensory deprivation gives your mind a break, reducing tension
In a study, participants who floated eight times over two weeks saw a 21.6% decrease in cortisol levels. They also handled stress better without the usual spikes in cortisol.
The best part? That deep relaxation doesn’t disappear once you leave the tank—it lingers, helping you stay calm in daily life.
2. Floating Increases Magnesium Levels
Magnesium is essential for over 235 bodily functions, yet many people are deficient. A lack of magnesium can lead to:
- Muscle cramps and fatigue
- Poor sleep and anxiety
- Joint pain and headaches
Floating replenishes magnesium levels by soaking your skin in Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate). Just one float session can provide enough magnesium to support your body for days.
3. Floating Reduces Anxiety and Depression
Chronic stress triggers high cortisol and adrenaline, which can lead to anxiety and depression. Floating helps by:
- Reducing cortisol production, helping you feel calmer
- Improving sleep, which directly impacts mental health
- Promoting relaxation, so you feel lighter and more positive
In one study, people who floated 12 times reported less stress, pain, and anxiety. They also noticed improved sleep and a more optimistic outlook, with results lasting up to four months.
4. Floating Relieves Physical Pain and Inflammation
If you struggle with chronic pain, floating might be the relief you need. It helps by:
- Increasing circulation, which reduces muscle tension
- Promoting oxygen flow, which speeds up healing
- Relieving joint pain, even for conditions like fibromyalgia
Floating has been shown to reduce pain, stress, and muscle tension, helping people move more freely with less discomfort.
5. Floating Improves Sleep Quality
Struggling with insomnia? Floating can help reset your sleep cycle.
- Magnesium relaxes muscles, preparing your body for deep sleep
- One hour in a float tank is equivalent to four hours of deep rest
- Even after just one float, people report feeling more refreshed
Better sleep leads to better energy, focus, and mood—all essential for a healthy lifestyle.
6. Floating Enhances Creativity
Artists, writers, and musicians use floating to boost creativity. A study found that floating improves technical skills and enhances problem-solving abilities.
When your brain enters a deep relaxation state, creative ideas flow more easily, making floating a great tool for anyone looking to unlock their full potential.
7. Floating Deepens Meditation
Many people struggle with meditation because of distractions. Floating makes it easier by:
- Eliminating external noise
- Helping you stay fully present
- Allowing your mind to enter a theta state—the deepest level of relaxation
This deep mental clarity can last for days or even weeks, helping you stay focused and mindful in everyday life.
What to Expect on Your First Float
Float tanks are spacious, measuring around 2.5 meters long and 1.2 meters tall, so you can sit up inside. The water, heated to 35°C, is infused with 350kg of Epsom salts, making you effortlessly float.
Before or after your session, you can also enjoy an infrared sauna for an even deeper relaxation experience.
Each person’s float experience is unique—some feel meditative, others creative, and many report feeling refreshed and optimistic for days afterward.
Final Thoughts
Floating is an amazing experience that can help you feel relaxed, balanced, and pain-free. It’s now my go-to gift for loved ones near The Private Sea in Mornington.
You can also read about Sensory Overload I hope this gave you insights and you can share us your experience!
Need to get to the root cause and feel relaxed, and pain-free – come see me
References
[1] https://www.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/j…
[2] http://floatinglotus.com/wp-content/uploads/…
[3] http://psycnet.apa.org/record/2006-07100-002
[4] http://floatinglotus.com/wp-content/uploads/…
by Feeling Great | Hormones
Dirty Dozen Chemicals to Avoid in Your Skincare Products
Protect Your Skin from Harmful Toxins – Chemicals to Avoid in Skincare
Every day, your skincare routine may be exposing you to harmful chemicals without you even realizing it. These toxins can disrupt hormones, trigger allergies, and irritate the skin. Some even contribute to long-term health issues, including immune system dysfunction.
While environmental toxins are everywhere, you have control over what goes on your skin. Choosing clean, toxin-free skincare products is one of the best ways to protect your health.
Did you know that the chemicals you use today could also affect future generations? Baby girls are born with a lifetime supply of eggs, meaning the toxins you absorb may impact your future grandchildren. With thousands of new chemicals introduced every year, it’s essential to be mindful of what you apply to your skin.
The Dirty Dozen: Chemicals to Avoid in Skincare
1. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
These common foaming agents strip your skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Over time, they weaken the skin’s protective barrier, making it more prone to damage.
2. Parabens (Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, etc.)
Used as preservatives, parabens are found in 75-90% of personal care products. They mimic estrogen, disrupt hormones, and may contribute to skin irritation and long-term health risks.
3. Fragrance or Parfum
The word “fragrance” hides hundreds of undisclosed chemicals, many of which can cause skin allergies, respiratory irritation, and hormone imbalances. Choose fragrance-free products whenever possible.
4. DEA, TEA, and MEA (Cocamide DEA, Lauramide DEA, Triethanolamine)
These ingredients help products foam and stabilize pH levels, but they also trigger skin irritation and allergic reactions. Some studies link them to hormonal disruption.
5. Phthalates
Often hidden in fragrance formulas, phthalates mimic estrogen and have been linked to birth defects, infertility, and developmental issues. Avoid any products that list “fragrance” without clear ingredient details.
6. Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives (Quaternium-15, DMDM Hydantoin, etc.)
These preservatives release formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. They can also irritate the skin, impact the liver, and weaken the immune system.
7. Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, and Paraffin Oil
These petroleum-based ingredients clog pores and block the skin’s natural detox process. Some may even be contaminated with harmful toxins. Instead, opt for natural alternatives like beeswax or plant-based oils.
8. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
PEG compounds weaken the skin’s barrier, increasing chemical absorption. They can also cause irritation and sensitivity, especially on delicate skin.
9. Triclosan
Found in antibacterial soaps and skincare, triclosan is known to disrupt hormones and contribute to antibiotic resistance. It’s been banned in some countries, but it still appears in many personal care products.
10. Coal Tar and Coal Tar Dyes
Common in hair dyes and anti-dandruff shampoos, coal tar is linked to cancer and heavy metal contamination, which can be toxic to the brain.
11. Silicones and Siloxanes
Used in haircare and anti-aging products, silicones create a film over the skin that traps dirt and bacteria. Some types may disrupt hormonal balance.
12. BHA and BHT
These preservatives, commonly found in moisturizers and makeup, are potential carcinogens that can cause skin irritation and disrupt hormones.
How to Reduce Your Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
Switching to clean skincare doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take small steps to reduce your exposure and make safer choices.
- Declutter Your Skincare Products – Check your labels and remove products that contain harmful ingredients.
- Make Gradual Swaps – Replace one product at a time with natural, toxin-free alternatives.
- Use Trusted Resources – Apps like Chemical Maze, Skin Deep Database, and Low Tox Life help you identify safer skincare options.
- Explore Eco-Friendly Skincare – Look for natural skincare brands like Ecology Skincare, which offers moisturizers and cleansers for sensitive skin.
Final Thoughts: Make Safer Skincare Choices
Choosing clean beauty products is a powerful way to protect your health. By avoiding the Dirty Dozen chemicals, you can support your skin, balance your hormones, and reduce exposure to toxins.
Share this guide with friends and family to help them make informed choices. Together, we can create a healthier future—one skincare product at a time.
Ready to Feel Your Best?
You can read List of Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Products and share with us your thoughts!
CLICK HERE to book a session with me and start your clean beauty journey!
