by Feeling Great | Mental Wellbeing
Is It Time to Break Free from Sabotaging Patterns?
Breaking Old Patterns – Reclaim Your Spark and Transform Your Life
Breaking Old Patterns? Have you ever noticed people who seem to radiate energy, joy, and confidence? It’s almost as if they have a natural spark that draws you in. I’ve always been fascinated by this energy and its impact on how people share their unique gifts with the world. From high school teachers to local shopkeepers, the people who exude this spark seem to have an undeniable magnetic quality.
But what about those who feel their spark has faded? This was my inspiration to help others reignite the natural vitality they were born with.
Our bodies and minds are complex, and it’s easy to get stuck in unhelpful patterns. When I work with clients, I start by examining their biochemistry and daily habits. From there, we declutter and rebuild. Once your foundation is strong, you can move forward with confidence and vitality.
How Does Your Brain Control Your Life?
Everything that happens in the brain affects the body. Today, we often hear about managing stress, anxiety, and depression. However, everything we experience, from our thoughts and feelings to our actions, follows a specific pattern in the brain—called neural maps. These patterns can either be helpful or unhelpful.
Unhelpful patterns include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Phobias
- Pain
- Smoking
- Overeating
- Poor sleep
On the other hand, helpful patterns might look like:
- Creativity
- Confidence
- Learning
- Performance at school/work
- Riding a bike
- Speaking a language
The brain is a powerful tool that, once conditioned, continues to repeat these patterns until something is done to change them.
Breaking Old Patterns: A Real-Life Example
Consider the case of Angela, who suffered from severe anxiety and agoraphobia. Her anxiety was draining all her energy and resources, leaving her unable to cope with daily life. She came to me with a list of five issues to address. I focused on the root cause—her anxiety.
By treating the anxiety first, we were able to eliminate the overwhelming feeling that consumed her day. After just a few sessions, Angela regained her energy and began asking, “What can I do to feel good?”
This story highlights how our brains create patterns, but they can also be rewired. Clinical hypnotherapy is a powerful tool in this process, allowing us to replace negative patterns with positive, life-changing ones.
Psychology vs. Clinical Hypnotherapy: What’s the Difference?
Many people ask about the difference between psychology and clinical hypnotherapy. Psychology deals with the conscious mind, focusing on understanding our reality and maintaining existing patterns. In contrast, clinical hypnotherapy works with the subconscious mind, the part of the brain that creates and breaks patterns.
While psychology can help us understand the origins of our patterns, clinical hypnotherapy goes deeper. It bypasses the conscious mind and reprograms the subconscious. This allows for faster and more effective change without reactivating old patterns.
How Clinical Hypnotherapy Works
In hypnotherapy, we don’t dwell on the problem; instead, we focus on creating new neural maps. The process begins with an investigation into the patient’s history and the identification of the most helpful changes. Then, we guide the patient into a relaxed, suggestible state—similar to daydreaming or meditation.
In this state, the brain is more open to change, and new, positive patterns begin to form. These changes can happen immediately, leading to lasting transformation.
Take Control of Your Brain, Take Control of Your Life
If your old patterns are running your brain and holding you back, it’s time to take action. Change is possible, and when your brain changes, everything changes.
Are you ready to reclaim your spark and break free from patterns that no longer serve you? Let’s begin today and unlock the possibilities for a vibrant, fulfilling life.
You can also read Making Changes – What Hat Are You Wearing? Hoping that’s given you food for thought and a few ideas to digest. If you know someone who would benefit from this, please share it.
CLICK HERE to book a session with me and let me help you achieve your healthy future.
by Feeling Great | Mental Wellbeing, Spirit
Secrets to Happiness #1: Secret 1
Happiness is something we all seek, yet many struggle to find. A common question I hear is, “What are the secrets to happiness?” Over the next three weeks, I’ll be sharing my insights. Let’s start with Secrets to Happiness #1.
Secrets to Happiness #1: Love People, Use Things
“Love people and use things, because the opposite never works.” – The Minimalists
I recently watched a thought-provoking documentary, Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things on Netflix. A friend recommended it, and I found the message incredibly powerful—quality over quantity.
In Western society, we have more comfort and convenience than ever before. Yet, we often crave more—more things, bigger houses, the latest gadgets. While this survival instinct once kept us alive in harsh conditions, today, it fuels a cycle of discontent.
Are You Buying Happiness?
Mass media constantly tells us that happiness comes from having more. We’re bombarded with ads pushing the next best thing, making us believe we need the latest, the biggest, the best. But does accumulating more really make us happier?
Many of us live in homes filled with unused spaces and clutter. If you mapped out which rooms you actually use daily, how much of your house would light up? The truth is, most of us are trapped in an earn-spend cycle, trying to fill emotional gaps with material things.
The Power of Simplifying
Decluttering is a powerful step toward happiness. It’s about keeping what serves a purpose and letting go of excess. Honoring your possessions rather than feeding mindless consumerism brings clarity and peace.
Today’s throwaway culture promotes endless consumption. Fashion trends change weekly. Ads target children with new toys, gadgets, and fast food. The pressure to buy never stops. But here’s the good news—you can choose to step off the hamster wheel.
Instead of chasing more, focus on meaningful experiences, deep connections, and mindful decisions. Ask yourself:
- Do I really need this, or is it an impulse buy?
- Will this bring long-term joy, or just a temporary high?
- Am I prioritizing relationships and experiences over possessions?
Live Intentionally for True Happiness – Secret 1
An intentional life is a key to happiness. It’s not about perfection or deprivation—it’s about balance. Surround yourself with like-minded people, be deliberate with your choices, and focus on what truly matters.
Happiness isn’t about having more; it’s about appreciating what you already have. Stay tuned for Part 2 next week! the Secrets To Happiness #2 (3 part series) where we’ll explore another powerful secret to a joyful life!
CLICK HERE to book your session with me and let me help you achieve your happiness!
by Feeling Great | Mental Wellbeing
4 Energy Suckers That Aren’t Diet-Related
Have you adjusted your diet but still feel drained? If you’re dragging through the day despite eating well, it may be time to identify the hidden energy drainers in your life. These energy suckers aren’t related to food, but they can have just as much impact on your well-being.
Here are 4 Common Energy Suckers that may be holding you back:
1. Clutter Drains Your Energy
Clutter does more than take up space—it weighs you down mentally and emotionally. It’s exhausting to sift through unused, unnecessary, and outdated items daily.
Ask yourself:
- What am I holding onto that no longer serves me?
- Do I feel overwhelmed by physical or emotional clutter
- Is my energy being spent on past regrets, old beliefs, or toxic relationships?
Letting go of what’s no longer needed frees up mental space and boosts your energy. Even small steps, like clearing a drawer or releasing a grudge, can make a difference.
2. Absorbing Others’ Projections Drains You
Have you ever heard things like, “It’s normal to feel tired at your age” or “Motherhood is exhausting—just accept it”? These are other people’s beliefs, not facts.
When someone projects their views onto you, it’s easy to take them on as truth. But ask yourself:
- Is my tiredness truly mine, or am I absorbing someone else’s perspective?
- Does this belief empower me or hold me back?
If you start feeling lighter and more energized after questioning these assumptions, it may be time to let go of external influences.
3. Ignoring Your Body’s Needs Drains Energy
Your body has its own intelligence. When you tune in and listen, it will guide you toward what it truly needs.
Take a moment to ask yourself: “What would give me more energy right now?” You might be surprised by the answers—maybe a walk by the ocean, a moment of deep breathing, or a simple stretch.
Ignoring your body’s signals leads to fatigue and burnout. Instead, start trusting its wisdom and honoring its needs.
4. Holding Onto What’s Not Working Drains You
Are you tired of a routine, a job, or a relationship that no longer feels right? Resisting necessary change can deplete your energy.
Ask yourself:
- What am I tired of?
- What no longer serves me?
- Am I resisting change because it feels uncomfortable?
Releasing what’s outdated creates space for new opportunities, growth, and a renewed sense of purpose.
“Sometimes it’s necessary to call a weed a weed and do a little pruning in the garden of life.” – Julie Smethurst
Ready to Cut Out Energy Suckers?
If you need help identifying and clearing energy suckers from your life, CLICK HERE to book a session. Let’s take the first step toward a more energized and fulfilling life today.
You want to read about how to create more time for yourself even when it’s busy? Check this Reignite Your Spark to read more about boosting energy! You can also read Holistic Health and Wellbeing to improve health in deeper level
High five! Julie XX (Naturopath, Life Coach, Pharmacist) 0438 593523
by Feeling Great | Mental Wellbeing
Stress – Immune System Sabotage
The Hidden Enemy: Stress – Immune System Sabotage
Stress – Immune System Sabotage. No surprises here—stress is the #1 culprit behind a weakened immune system. We’ve all experienced it… that sore throat, cold sore, or flu that hits after a stressful period.
For many people with autoimmune conditions, their health takes a nosedive after major life stressors. And science backs it up.
- A 2001 study found that people with autoimmune thyroid disease had more stressful life events before their diagnosis compared to healthy individuals.
- A 2012 study in Psychosomatic Medicine revealed that childhood trauma increases the risk of developing autoimmune diseases later in life.
Chronic stress is deeply embedded in modern life, and most people just accept it as normal. But common doesn’t mean healthy!
A Harvard and Stanford study suggests that work-related stress is as harmful as secondhand smoke. That’s a serious wake-up call.
Why Aren’t We Talking About Stress More?
Did you know that over 75% of doctor’s visits are stress-related, yet only 3% of visits include a conversation about stress reduction?
Doctors are great at treating symptoms, but stress is often ignored—even though it’s at the root of many health problems:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Hormonal imbalances
- Cravings & food addictions
- Fatigue & low energy
- Mood swings & anxiety
It’s time to stop treating stress as an afterthought and start making it a priority.
What is Stress, Really?
Stress triggers the “fight or flight” response, which helped our ancestors escape predators. When you feel stressed, your body releases cortisol, flooding your system with glucose (sugar) to fuel your muscles.
In small doses, this response is helpful. But constant stress keeps your body in survival mode—leading to exhaustion, burnout, and a weakened immune system.
The good news? Just as we have a stress response, we also have a relaxation response. Learning to activate it can help your body heal and recharge.
Quick Stress Reset – Try This Now
Close your eyes. Breathe in deeply through your nose, expanding your belly. Hold for a few seconds, then exhale slowly through your mouth.
Repeat this 10 times. Feel the tension ease?
Even small practices like this add up over time.
- Avoid checking your phone first thing in the morning.
- Get enough quality sleep.
- Say NO to draining commitments.
Reducing stress isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for long-term health and happiness.
10 Simple Ways to Lower Stress – Immune System Sabotage
- Meditation
- Creative hobbies
- Spending time with pets
- Quality time with loved ones
- Nature walks
- Sex
- Dancing
- Napping
- Prayer
- Listening to calming music
Time to Take Action
Stress won’t disappear on its own. Schedule these stress-busting activities into your routine today. There’s no “perfect time” to start—just begin. If you’re interested in reading Autoimmune Specialist Naturopath Australia Online or you can read this Feeling Well: What Does It Really Mean? and find it helpful? Share with us your experience!
Need guidance to reduce stress and improve your health? Book a session here, and let’s create your personalized stress-reduction plan.
Loads of health and happiness,
Julie XX
by Feeling Great | Mental Wellbeing
Feeling Well: What Does It Really Mean?
What Does “Feeling Well” Mean to You?
Every day, I ask my clients: “What would you love to change?”
I often hear:
- “I want more energy.”
- “I need to lose weight.”
- “I just want to feel good.”
But what does feeling well actually mean? Does it look the same for everyone, or is it deeply personal?
For me, feeling good happens when I prioritize my well-being. I listen to my body, care for my mind, and make choices that support my health. When I do this, I feel energized, clear-headed, optimistic, and strong. Life flows more easily.
What about you? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Listening to Your Body’s Signals
Your body is always communicating with you. If you feel drained, sluggish, or stuck in a fog, it’s a sign to pause and reassess.
I’ve been there myself. For years, I pushed through a job that no longer aligned with my values. No matter how much my mind told me to keep going, my body fought back—chronic sinus infections, fatigue, autoimmune issues, and low mood.
The more I ignored the signs, the worse it got. Sound familiar?
- A study from NCBI found that people who feel understood by others report higher life satisfaction and fewer physical symptoms.
Let that sink in—your emotions impact your health.
The Power of Letting Go
For the longest time, I resisted change. I believed that pushing harder was the answer. But when I finally let go—when I stopped forcing what wasn’t working—I discovered the truth:
- Slowing down doesn’t mean giving up.
- Rest is productive.
- Your feelings are valuable guidance, not obstacles.
Many people call it “letting go and letting God.” Whatever you call it, honoring how you feel can be life-changing.
Are You Truly Living?
Endless busyness can be a distraction from what really matters. Ask yourself:
- When was the last time I wrote down what’s most important to me?
- Am I truly living in alignment with my values?
Most of us live as if we have forever, but the truth is—we don’t.
I hear so many powerful stories in my work. Time and time again, I’ve seen incredible resilience. Some of the strongest, kindest, most compassionate people have endured unimaginable challenges, yet they keep going.
The human spirit is remarkable. You are far more capable than you think.
Life Will Give You Signs—Are You Paying Attention?
Life has a way of nudging you back on track.
- First, it taps you on the shoulder.
- Then, it nudges a little harder.
- Eventually, it hits you over the head or stops you in your tracks.
Where are you right now?
- Running on empty?
- Wishing the pain or discomfort would just stop.
- When was the last time you truly checked in with yourself and wrote down how you feel?
If you’re feeling lost, exhausted, or disconnected, it’s time to take action.
Ready to Feel Good Again?
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. If you need support to get back on track, let’s chat.
Book a 30-Minute Feeling Well Discovery Session and take the first step toward smiling, thriving, and feeling like YOU again. Click here to book your session now.
With love,
Julie xxx
For more information about Wellbeing, read this Stress – Immune System Sabotage and if it helps you share your thoughts with us.
by Feeling Great | Hormones, Mental Wellbeing
11 Simple Ways to De-Stress and Balance Your Hormones
Why Stress Is the Biggest Hormone Disruptor
De-Stress and Balance Your Hormones from making simple yet powerful daily changes.
“Stress is the trash of modern life – we all generate it, but if you don’t dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life.” – Terri Guillemets
Long ago, stress meant running from predators to stay alive. Today, it comes from work, relationships, financial pressures, and even the thoughts we replay in our minds.
At my naturopathic clinic in Mt. Martha, I see firsthand how chronic stress affects hormones. It disrupts the thyroid, blood sugar, adrenals, and sex hormones, leading to fatigue, brain fog, mood swings, and weight gain.
But here’s the truth: you can’t medicate your way out of an unhealthy lifestyle. Real balance comes from making simple yet powerful daily changes.
Let’s dive into 11 easy ways to reduce stress, reset your hormones, and reclaim your health.
1. Find the Magic in Everyday Life
Most of us rush through to-do lists without ever stopping to ask: Does this actually make me happy?
Take a step back. Notice the small joyful moments—a laugh with a friend, a beautiful sunrise, or a quiet cup of tea.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I spending time on things that bring real fulfillment?
- What daily moments make me feel truly happy?
2. Prioritize What Truly Matters
We can’t do everything at once, so focus on what counts.
Instead of just tackling your schedule, schedule your priorities. Family, health, and peace of mind should come before never-ending tasks.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I prioritizing my health and relationships over busyness?
- What’s one thing I can let go of today?
3. Declutter for a Clearer Mind
Excess clutter—both physical and mental—adds stress. Simplify your surroundings and free up your energy.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Do I own things that no longer serve me?
- What thoughts or habits can I let go of?
4. Plan Backward to Move Forward
Visualize your dream life, then work backward to create an action plan. Clarity comes from knowing where you’re headed.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- What future do I want to create?
- What steps will take me there?
5. Release the Past and Move Forward
Holding onto regrets, disappointments, or old wounds drains your energy. Let go and make room for new opportunities.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- How is the past limiting my future?
- What can I release to move forward?
6. Take Control of Your Choices
You can’t always control what happens, but you can control how you respond. Every moment, you have the power to choose peace over stress.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- What situation am I allowing to control me?
- How can I shift my response to regain my power?
7. Attract Positivity with the Right Mindset
What you focus on, grows. If you dwell on negativity, you invite more of it. Instead, focus on what you want to attract.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Are my thoughts lifting me up or dragging me down?
- How can I shift my focus to invite better energy?
8. Get Outside and Reconnect with Nature
Fresh air, trees, and sunshine are natural stress relievers. Even a short walk can calm your mind and boost your mood.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I spending enough time outside?
- How can I bring more nature into my routine?
9. Stop Waiting for “Someday”—Live Now
“If only I had more time, more money, or a different situation…” These thoughts keep you stuck. Happiness is in the present moment.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I delaying happiness, waiting for the “perfect” time?
- What can I appreciate right now?
10. Discover Your Purpose and Live with Intention
A clear sense of purpose creates direction and fulfillment. Define what lights you up and start living it every day.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- What activities make me feel alive?
- How can I bring more purpose into my daily life?
11. Slow Down to Find Balance
In a fast-paced world, slowing down can actually help you move forward with more clarity and ease.
✨ Ask Yourself:
- Am I rushing through life without being present?
- What’s one thing I can do today to slow down and enjoy the moment?
Need Help Balancing Your Hormones?
Struggling with fatigue, mood swings, stress, or weight gain? It could be your hormones! Let’s get to the root cause and create a plan to restore balance.
CLICK HERE to book a consultation and start feeling better now!
Your health is worth it. Let’s reset your hormones and bring back your energy!
