by Feeling Great | Body
Adrenal Fatigue: A Growing Epidemic and Its Impact on Your Health
Adrenal fatigue is becoming an increasingly common issue in today’s fast-paced world. Yet, many people remain unaware that they have it. It’s one of the leading causes of persistent fatigue and can significantly impact overall well-being.
What Is Adrenal Fatigue?
Your adrenal glands, which sit on top of your kidneys, play a vital role in producing hormones like adrenaline and noradrenaline. These hormones are essential for preparing your body for “fight or flight” during stressful situations (source: healthdirect). However, when you’re constantly in a state of stress, your adrenals can become overworked, leading to adrenal fatigue.
Many people experience symptoms of adrenal fatigue without realizing it. For instance, they may wake up feeling exhausted, rely on caffeine to get through the day, and consume sugary snacks for a quick energy boost. By the afternoon, they hit a wall, only to feel awake just before bedtime. Unfortunately, this cycle continues the next day, leaving them feeling drained and unable to function at their best.
The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on which stage of adrenal fatigue a person is experiencing.
The Role of Your Adrenals in Stress Response
The adrenal glands are small, bean-shaped organs that secrete cortisol and DHEA in response to signals from your brain. These hormones are crucial in preparing your body for a stressful event. They enhance your heart rate, lung function, vision, and hearing. Additionally, they help your blood clot faster if you sustain an injury, and regulate sugar and salt levels, which is ideal during a crisis.
However, if your body is constantly in crisis mode, this can cause long-term damage. We’re not designed to be in a constant state of alertness, triggered by thoughts about relationships, finances, work pressures, or family stress. This prolonged state of heightened stress interferes with your body’s ability to heal and maintain itself, accelerating aging and increasing irritability, fatigue, mood swings, and pain.
The Importance of Relaxation for Recovery
To reverse the damage caused by chronic stress, it’s essential to allow your body to experience relaxation. Your brain needs a sense of safety and calm to shift from a fight-or-flight mode into repair mode, restoring hormone balance and promoting healing.
Common Signs of Adrenal Fatigue
If you’re experiencing adrenal fatigue, you may notice some of the following symptoms:
- Persistent, unexplained fatigue
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Struggling to get out of bed in the morning
- Feeling overwhelmed or anxious
- Increased effort needed to perform everyday tasks
- Sugar or salt cravings
- Feeling more awake in the evenings
- Unexplained weight gain
- Reduced ability to handle stress
Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can lead to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and early memory loss. Fortunately, you have more control over this situation than you might think. Changing how you perceive stressors and breaking free from the chronic fight-or-flight response is key.
Stress-Reducing Practices to Support Adrenal Health
To support your adrenals and reduce stress, consider incorporating the following practices into your routine:
- Meditation
- Spending time in nature
- Gardening
- Moderate exercise
- Yoga
- Journaling
- Tai chi
When combined and practiced consistently, these activities can have the greatest impact on reducing stress and supporting adrenal health.
How to Assess Your Adrenal Function
Are your adrenal glands contributing to hormone imbalances, such as PMS or menopausal symptoms? Could they be the root cause of your fatigue, chronic pain, or poor sleep? You can easily assess your adrenal function through salivary adrenal testing.
Unlike blood tests, which measure both bound and unbound cortisol, salivary tests focus on free or active cortisol and DHEA. This makes the test more sensitive and accurate for detecting adrenal imbalances. You can take the test at home, and the results are processed by a pathology lab, providing you with a comprehensive graphical report on your adrenal health.
By addressing adrenal fatigue early and taking proactive steps to reduce stress, you can restore balance, improve energy levels, and regain control of your health.
CLICK HERE to book a free 15 min call or an appointment to get started today!
by Feeling Great | Autoimmune Diseases
Sick of Side Effects of Rheumatoid Arthritis Medication? Discover 5 Natural Alternatives
Many rheumatoid arthritis (RA) sufferers are seeking natural alternatives to traditional medications like prednisolone, Plaquenil, and methotrexate. These drugs often come with harsh side effects, leaving many patients desperate for safer and more effective solutions.
A Real-Life Success Story: Alice’s Journey
Alice, a 43-year-old mother of two, came to see me after struggling with the debilitating effects of rheumatoid arthritis. Her swollen, painful joints—affecting her ankles, knees, fingers, and hips—weren’t responding to Plaquenil. As a next step, her doctor recommended methotrexate, a chemotherapy drug. However, Alice was hesitant. She had researched the side effects and was terrified of the potential harm.
Alice’s primary goal was to manage her symptoms while caring for her young children and working part-time as a receptionist. After just three weeks of working with me, Alice’s inflammatory markers had halved. By three months, her pain had significantly reduced to a 2/10 on the pain scale, and she hadn’t experienced any flare-ups. Her life had dramatically improved.
Alice’s energy tripled, her sleep quality improved, and her brain fog cleared. She was no longer bloated or constipated. Her daily swims at the local beach became a joy again, and for the first time in years, she felt alive, not just surviving.
The Rise of Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases are becoming one of the most common reasons people seek treatment, and rheumatoid arthritis is among the fastest-growing chronic conditions in Australia. Other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis, are also on the rise.
Interestingly, around 70% of the immune system is housed in the gut. This makes it essential to target the gut microbiome and digestive system when addressing autoimmune conditions. Issues such as food intolerances, gut infections, leaky gut, and nutrient deficiencies can all contribute to autoimmune dysfunction.
Dr. Scher, a well-known expert in the field, stated, “In 10 or 15 years, the microbiome will be a key therapeutic option for autoimmune diseases. While challenges remain, I don’t see why it can’t happen. This isn’t science fiction.”
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) isn’t just the wear-and-tear arthritis seen in older adults. It affects people of all ages, including children, though it is most common in women between the ages of 30 and 50.
RA occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joints, connective tissue, and organs. This leads to inflammation, pain, and eventual joint damage. Over time, this can result in crippling mobility and a significantly reduced quality of life. Without proper management, RA can shorten life expectancy by 10-15 years.
During a flare-up, simple tasks like getting out of bed, brushing your teeth, or even going to the toilet can become impossible. The goal of treatment is to reduce flare-up frequency, intensity, and duration. For many, this means giving up favorite hobbies and struggling to keep up with social obligations due to fatigue and pain.
Many individuals don’t receive an autoimmune diagnosis until years after symptoms first appear, which reduces the chances of remission. As a result, some people are forced to reduce their working hours, take time off, or even quit their jobs altogether.
Important Facts About Rheumatoid Arthritis:
- If left untreated, 60% of RA sufferers will experience permanent disability within 10 years of onset.
- Remission refers to a low level of disease activity but still involves pain and some disability due to joint damage.
- There is no cure for RA; the goal is to reduce symptoms and improve mobility.
- Chronic inflammation caused by RA increases the risk of heart disease and can also damage the lungs, nervous system, kidneys, skin, and eyes.
5 Natural Options for Rheumatoid Arthritis Relief
I’ve found that the best results come from taking a multi-faceted approach. Here are five natural options for managing rheumatoid arthritis:
1. Clean, Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Diet plays a significant role in managing rheumatoid arthritis. By eating clean, you can help reduce inflammation and support overall healing.
- Avoid processed foods, additives, and preservatives.
- Add alkalizing foods, such as greens and vegetables, and drink plenty of water.
- Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods, like leafy greens, hemp seeds, ginger, and turmeric.
- Heal the gut with bone broth (chicken or beef with veggies such as onion, carrot, and leek).
- Limit or avoid alcohol, which is often linked to flare-ups.
- Keep caffeine consumption to a maximum of one drink per day.
- Identify food intolerances through testing or elimination (gluten, dairy, nightshades, eggs, nuts).
2. Detoxification
A naturopath-supervised detox program can be extremely beneficial for reducing inflammation and improving overall health. A quality, sustainable detox lasting 6-8 weeks can significantly decrease autoimmune symptoms and inflammatory markers.
3. Manage Stress
Stress is a major trigger for inflammation. While it’s normal to experience stress, living in a constant state of stress can worsen symptoms. Effective stress-management techniques include:
- Decluttering your life and removing what’s no longer serving you.
- Practicing meditation, deep breathing, or hypnotherapy.
- Spending time in nature.
- Ensuring you get quality sleep.
4. Revitalize Your Gut
Numerous studies have shown that gut health is strongly linked to autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Given that your gut comprises around 70% of your immune system, improving gut function is key. Consider adding probiotics, prebiotics, and gut-healing foods to your diet, as well as reducing stress to support gut health.
Makes sense to start here and work outwards for real lasting results. Click here to book online for gut reset.
What I’ve realised again and again is cleaning up at the beginning means less damage control through hardcore drugs at the end. Small things repeated often can have a powerful long term effect that’s sustainable. Worth considering.
You can also read How to Cure Autoimmune Disease Naturally and 7 Powerful Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy. I hope it’s given you food for thought and been useful?
by Feeling Great | Energy/Fatigue, Mental Wellbeing
Morning Mindset Rituals for a Focused and Energized Day
Start Your Day with Intention and Purpose
Do you want to feel energized, clear-minded, and in control of your day? The secret lies in your morning mindset.
How you begin your day sets the tone for everything that follows. When you start with calmness and intention, you create a powerful foundation for success, productivity, and well-being.
Rather than rushing through your morning, take a few minutes to pause, breathe, and connect with yourself. This small shift can make a huge impact on your focus, energy, and mood throughout the day.
Simple Morning Rituals for a Positive Mindset
1. Start with Presence and Deep Breathing
As soon as you wake up, place both feet on the ground and take a few deep breaths. Close your eyes and visualize how you want your day to unfold. Allow yourself to feel empowered and in control.
2. Avoid Rushing – Create Space for Yourself
Mornings often feel busy and chaotic, but they don’t have to be. Give yourself extra time by going to bed earlier and waking up 30 minutes before you usually do. This small adjustment creates a calm and focused start to your day.
3. Protect Your Mental Energy
Your morning is a sacred time, so avoid negative distractions that can disrupt your mindset. Skip the news first thing in the morning—it’s often filled with stress-inducing headlines. Instead, focus on positive thoughts and affirmations.
4. Set Intentions and Stay Focused
When you begin the day with clarity and direction, you are less likely to be distracted by external stressors. Take a moment to remind yourself what truly matters, and hold onto that focus throughout the day.
Morning Meditation for a Calm and Centered Mind
Meditation is one of the most powerful ways to clear your mind, boost energy, and reduce stress. Even just 2-5 minutes of meditation can help you feel grounded and ready for the day ahead.
Easy Meditation Techniques:
- ✔ Deep belly breathing – Close your eyes, inhale deeply through your nose, and exhale slowly through your mouth.
- ✔ Chanting ‘Om’ – Silently repeat “Om” on each exhale to calm your mind.
- ✔ Visualizing a peaceful place – Imagine sitting by a river, lying in a meadow, or walking through a forest.
- ✔ Listening to nature – Sit by a window or outside, focusing on the sounds around you.
- ✔ Guided meditation apps – Try Smiling Mind, Headspace, or Chopra Meditation Centre for structured meditations.
Struggling with a racing mind? Try lying on your back with your legs up against a wall at a right angle. This simple yoga pose activates your relaxation response and instantly calms your nervous system.
The Power of a Consistent Routine
Building a morning ritual doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small—just a few minutes a day—and stay consistent. Over time, these small habits will create big transformations in your focus, energy, and emotional balance.
Every morning is a chance to reset and begin again.
Try It for 30 Days – See the Difference!
For the next 30 days, commit to practicing morning mindfulness and see how it transforms your day. Whether it’s deep breathing, meditation, or simply taking a moment to be present, you’ll start noticing positive changes in your mood, energy, and overall well-being.
I’d love to hear about your experience! Try it out and share your results—did you feel more focused? Less stressed? More energized? You can read the Holistic Approach and Give it a try.
If you need guidance or want to take your well-being to the next level, CLICK HERE to contact me. Let’s create a morning routine that helps you feel amazing every single day!
by Feeling Great | Weight Loss
Naturopathy Diet: How to Reduce Chemical Exposure
Understanding Chemical Exposure in Modern Life with Naturopathy Diet
In today’s world, chemical exposure has increased dramatically, outpacing our understanding of its long-term effects. While more research is needed, there are already strong concerns about how these toxins impact health.
With so many harmful substances around us, how can we truly assess the risks to ourselves and our families? The safest approach is to follow the precautionary principle—avoid exposure whenever possible.
At the same time, we should advocate for stronger environmental regulations and encourage companies to reduce harmful chemicals in their products.
Minimizing Chemical Exposure Through Diet
A simple yet powerful way to lower exposure is through mindful eating habits. Here’s how you can start:
- Reduce non-organic animal products – Animals accumulate toxins in their fat.
- Choose organic foods – This helps lower exposure to pesticides like glyphosate.
- Avoid plastic packaging – Chemicals from plastics can leach into food.
Studies show that people who eat organic foods have significantly lower levels of harmful pesticides in their bodies (Kruger, 2014).
Practical Steps for a Low-Toxin Lifestyle
Taking proactive steps can help remove toxins from your body and environment:
- Eat organic, local, and seasonal whole foods whenever possible.
- Avoid plastics, even BPA-free options, as their alternatives may also be harmful.
- Use natural personal care and cleaning products that are free from petrochemicals.
- Grow your own organic produce—but test your soil for contaminants first.
- Support your body’s detoxification through regular exercise and hydration.
- Boost nutrition with organic vegetables, turmeric, and other natural antioxidants.
- Filter your drinking water to remove heavy metals and toxins.
- Stay informed and spread awareness about the dangers of chemical exposure.
Embracing a Naturopathy Diet for Better Health
A naturopathic diet focuses on whole, unprocessed foods to support energy, immunity, and long-term well-being. By choosing natural ingredients and avoiding artificial preservatives, additives, and toxins, you can take control of your health. Ready to make a change? Start small—every step counts!
You can also read this helpful information about Ways to Maintain a Healthy Weight or Dirty Dozen Chemicals to Avoid in Your Skincare Products What are your thoughts? Share your experiences in the comments!
Book Now! I’m excited to hear from you!
by Feeling Great | Body
Food Intolerance Test – Pinpoint the Foods Affecting Your Well-being
Pinpoint food sensitivities and intolerances with expert food reaction testing – regain control of your health!
Food intolerance is a delayed negative reaction to certain foods or food additives. Unlike food allergies, food intolerance symptoms affect various body systems, but are usually less severe. Many people experience health issues caused by the foods they consume daily, often without realizing it.
Why Are Food Sensitivity Rising?
In recent years, food allergy and sensitivities have surged, partly due to changes in the environment, chemicals, and food processing. Our immune systems are no longer just fighting bacteria and viruses; they are mistakenly attacking poorly digested food particles or even our own tissues.
Autoimmune diseases, like asthma, eczema, and arthritis, are also becoming more common, with food sensitiveness contributing to immune system dysregulation. This, in turn, can lead to the development of multiple autoimmune diseases.
Common Symptoms of Food Allergy
Food intolerances can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- IBS
- Headaches
- Rashes
- Joint pain
- Weight gain
These symptoms often point to underlying gut issues. Your gut plays a major role in digestion and immune health, which is why healing your gut is key to overcoming food intolerances.
Let’s work together via Video consult or in person (Corowa office) & let’s get it sorted. Book now.
Life is too short to feel crappy all the time!
Julie (Feeling Great Naturopath)
by Feeling Great | Energy/Fatigue, Mental Wellbeing
Holistic Diet – Eating Healthy but Still Feeling Off?
Holistic Diet – Why Healthy Eating Alone Isn’t Enough
Are you eating all the right foods but still feeling sluggish? You’re not alone. While a nutritious diet is essential, it’s only one piece of the puzzle.
A 20-year Harvard study found that your relationships impact your health more than diet, exercise, or even genetics. That doesn’t mean you should stop eating well or staying active—both are still crucial. However, acknowledging this third dimension of health might be the missing link.
So, take a moment to reflect. Who do you spend time with? Do they uplift you, or do they drain your energy? Think of it like catching a cold—when you surround yourself with negativity, you absorb it. If you want more joy, motivation, and energy, it helps to be around positive, inspiring people who bring out the best in you.
The Hidden Layers of Well-Being
You are more than just a body. Your physical, emotional, and mental health are all connected. Over time, society has trained us to focus on external health, but true wellness comes from addressing all layers of yourself.
Years of conditioning from the media, family, and so-called experts may have convinced you that fat is bad, stress is unavoidable, or success requires exhaustion. But what if your well-being depended more on your emotions than on your diet?
If you’ve been eating well yet still feel stuck, it’s time to look at your emotional energy.
Are Emotional Energy Zappers Draining You?
Here are some hidden emotional stressors that might be affecting your health:
- ❌ Guilt – Holding onto past mistakes without learning and letting go.
- ❌ Shame – Feeling unworthy or undeserving of happiness.
- ❌ Blame – Pointing fingers instead of taking responsibility.
- ❌ Judgment – Criticizing yourself and others too harshly.
- ❌ Inner Critic – The constant voice telling you that you’re not good enough.
Negative emotions drain energy. Guilt, when unchecked, can turn into shame. Self-judgment feeds insecurity, making you feel unworthy of love or success. The more you criticize yourself, the harder it becomes to move forward.
To break free, start by taking responsibility for your actions. Acknowledge your past mistakes, learn from them, and let go. Beating yourself up only fuels negativity and keeps you stuck. Instead, mobilize your inner protector—the part of you that sees both your strengths and weaknesses in perspective.
How to Stop the Negative Cycle
Breaking free from self-judgment and emotional exhaustion starts with self-awareness and self-forgiveness. Here’s how:
- ✅ Acknowledge Your Feelings – Suppressing emotions leads to stress and burnout. Instead, accept them, process them, and release them.
- ✅ Reframe Your Inner Dialogue – Replace self-criticism with kindness and encouragement.
- ✅ Heal Your Inner Child – Many self-limiting beliefs come from childhood. If you were told you weren’t good enough, now is the time to rewrite that story.
- ✅ Let Go of Resentment – Anger and bitterness weigh you down. Practicing forgiveness—both for yourself and others—can set you free.
- ✅ Surround Yourself with Positivity – Energy is contagious. Be around uplifting, inspiring people who make you feel empowered.
Self-Love and Letting Go of Perfection
Perfection is overrated—and exhausting. Instead of striving for flawlessness, embrace growth and self-compassion. Laugh at your mistakes, learn from them, and move forward.
There are no failures—only experiences that shape you. When you stop seeking perfection, you free yourself to live fully and enjoy life.
Time for Action – Let’s Get You Feeling Great!
If you’re eating healthy but still feeling off, it’s time to address the root cause. Let’s create a personalized plan to help you feel energized, balanced, and truly well.
📅 BOOK HERE – Let’s Get You Back on Track!
You can also read about the 4 Things that can block weight loss and let me know what you feel about it. Did this resonate with you? Share it with someone who needs to hear it today!
