by Feeling Great | Energy/Fatigue, Spirit
Lost My Passion for Life? Here’s How to Reignite Your Spark
You’re Not Alone. Feeling Exhausted and Uninspired?
Worn out, drained, and unmotivated? Reminiscing about the past, longing for the energy, optimism, and drive you once had.
Running on caffeine and sugar, juggling work, family, and responsibilities, only to crash at the end of the day. You might even look in the mirror and wonder, “Where did my passion go?”
But here’s the truth—your spark isn’t gone; it’s simply buried under exhaustion and neglect. It’s time to prioritize yourself again. When you do, not only will you feel better, but those around you will notice the difference too.
Ready to find your fire again? Let’s dive in.
6 Steps to Reignite Your Spark
1. Gain Clarity on What You Truly Want
Start by imagining your ideal life in five, ten, or fifteen years. What does it look like? How do you feel? Let this vision fuel your motivation every day.
Now, take stock of your current reality. Identify three small but meaningful changes you can make in the next three months to move closer to that vision.
💡 Tip: Focus and consistency will help you create real change. One step at a time!
2. Boost Your Energy—It’s the Foundation of Everything
Feeling depleted? Your body and mind need energy to function at their best. If you’re constantly tired, ask yourself:
- Are you low in iron?
- Making poor food choices?
- Dehydrated or sleep-deprived?
- Struggling with gut issues, chronic pain, or food intolerances?
If you answered yes to any of these, it’s time to address the root causes. Seeing a naturopath can help you get back on track.
Click here to book a session.
3. Create Daily Rituals to Stay on Track
Wishful thinking won’t bring back your motivation—consistent habits will. Establish morning and evening rituals to keep you focused and energized.
Over time, these rituals will become second nature, helping you stay disciplined, productive, and positive.
💡 Need guidance? Let’s create a plan together!
4. Declutter & Let Go of What’s Holding You Back
Clear out what’s weighing you down—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether it’s clutter in your home, toxic relationships, or negative thoughts, it’s time to release what no longer serves you.
🛑 Set a timer, grab some boxes, and adopt a “this has to go” mindset. You’ll feel lighter and more free.
5. Prioritize Rest & Recharge Your Mind and Body
You can’t pour from an empty cup. If you keep giving without replenishing your energy, you’ll feel drained and resentful.
Make self-care a daily habit—even small moments of rest can make a huge difference.
💡 Looking for self-care ideas? Check out my guide!
6. Step into Self-Empowerment & Own Your Life
The secret to long-term happiness? Self-love and self-respect. When you prioritize yourself, you naturally set higher standards and healthier boundaries.
Ask yourself:
💛 What does self-love look like for me?
💛 How can I treat my body, mind, and spirit with more care?
Your body is the only one you have—treat it well, and it will take care of you in return.
Your Spark Is Still There—Let’s Find It Together
If you’re telling yourself, “I’ve lost my passion for life,” know that you can get it back.
I’ve been there, and I know what it takes to reignite that inner fire. Whether you need support with energy, mindset, nutrition, or lifestyle habits, I’m here to help.
Click here to book a consultation at my Corowa office or online via Teams/WhatsApp.
“The first step toward change is deciding you’re no longer willing to stay where you are.” – J.P. Morgan
Much love,
Julie Smethurst 💛
Naturopath, Life Coach, Pharmacist | Feeling Great Health Solutions, Corowa
by Feeling Great | Mental Wellbeing, Spirit
Naturopath Mental Health: The Six Human Needs
Why Do We Do the Things We Do?
Our Mental Health is our needs on what drives us. They create desire, motive, and influence our actions. But have you ever wondered why humans behave the way they do? The answer lies in the six fundamental needs that shape our emotions, actions, and ultimately, our destinies.
Every person is influenced by these six basic human needs. All behavior is simply an attempt to satisfy these needs. These needs affect our quality of life, relationships, and overall sense of fulfillment.
The Six Human Needs
1. Certainty
This need provides assurance that we can avoid pain and gain pleasure. It is the desire for security and survival, which drives our actions toward stability and predictability in life.
2. Uncertainty/Variety
Humans crave change and novelty. The need for variety pushes us to seek out the unknown, new experiences, and excitement. It’s what keeps life engaging and dynamic.
3. Significance
We all have an inherent desire to feel unique, important, and valued. This need drives us to seek recognition and a sense of importance in our lives, both from others and within ourselves.
4. Connection/Love
This need is all about forming meaningful relationships. Whether with others or a sense of connection to something greater, humans need to feel a strong bond and unity with others.
5. Growth
Personal growth is essential to our sense of well-being. This need involves expanding our capacity, capability, and understanding, leading us to continuously improve ourselves.
6. Contribution
Giving back and helping others is another fundamental human need. The desire to contribute to the well-being of others gives us purpose and a sense of fulfillment.
What Makes Us Different?
While these six needs are universal, what differs is how we value them. Are you primarily driven by certainty and significance? Or do you place higher value on connection and contribution, or perhaps variety and growth?
These values show up in every aspect of our lives. For instance, someone who values variety might live a more spontaneous lifestyle compared to someone who prioritizes certainty and seeks stability.
People meet these needs in various ways, often with unique approaches. For example, some individuals may seek certainty by controlling every aspect of their life, while others embrace faith and relinquish control. Similarly, the need for variety may be fulfilled through travel, hobbies, or trying new things, creating excitement and engagement in life.
The Desire for Fulfillment
At the core of human behavior is the desire for a meaningful life. Fulfillment comes from continuously growing and contributing beyond oneself. These two spiritual needs play a crucial role in achieving a deep sense of satisfaction and purpose.
Dysfunctional Behavior and Unmet Needs
When we fail to meet our needs consistently, we may settle for comfort or attempt to fulfill them on a smaller scale. Dysfunctional behaviors often stem from an inability to satisfy these core needs in healthy ways.
It’s essential to replace disempowering ways of meeting these needs with strategies that empower both ourselves and others. Recognizing which needs are driving you, particularly in times of stress or difficulty, can help you shift your behaviors toward positive outcomes.
What Drives You?
Take a moment to reflect: which needs most often appear in your life, especially when facing stress or challenges? Understanding your driving forces can help you break old patterns and replace them with empowering choices.
What is the primary force that drives your life? Which needs do you value most?
Creating Lasting Fulfillment
The key to lasting fulfillment is understanding where you currently stand and how these needs influence your life. By recognizing your core needs and expanding your choices, you can pave the way for a more fulfilling, empowered life.
Understanding these six needs and how they influence your behavior can help you create positive new patterns that lead to lasting fulfillment. – Tony Robbins
There is no greater force in shaping your destiny than the needs you value most.
Naturopath Mental Health Services
Are you ready to explore the power of understanding your core needs? Whether you’re in Melbourne or anywhere across Australia, Naturopath Mental Health services and online video consultations can support you in achieving lasting well-being. Get in touch today to begin your journey to fulfillment.
Learn what is directing your life from the inside out and how to change it if it isn’t working for you. Contact me today for a free no obligation phone consultation. Available in person or online video consults.
You can also read my ‘How to Influence Others Positively‘ and tell me what you think about it!
by Feeling Great | Mental Wellbeing, Spirit
Naturopath Mental Health Melbourne: Love Over Fear
The Two Choices We Make Every Day – Love or Fear?
Every decision we make boils down to two basic options: we can choose from a place of love or from a place of fear. When I first encountered this idea, it was a true “aha” moment for me.
Taking the time to observe the emotions behind our choices is incredibly empowering. By recognizing whether we’re acting out of love or fear, we can start to shift our mindset and make choices that align with our true desires.
Which Emotion is Driving You? Take This Simple Quiz
Consider the following statements and reflect on whether you are choosing love or fear in these areas of your life.
Love
- I exercise because I love how it makes me feel.
- I eat to honor my body and provide it with the best nutrients.
- The people around me are loving, supportive, and aligned with my values.
- I am with my partner because I genuinely love being with them.
- I engage in work that I love and that inspires me every day.
- I see money as energy and don’t allow it to control my life.
- I regularly take time for myself to sit in stillness and reflect.
- I am of service to others and contribute to the world in a meaningful way.
- I always seek natural ways to support and heal my body.
Fear
- I exercise out of fear of becoming overweight, sick, or aging prematurely.
- I restrict my diet out of fear of gaining weight.
- I hold onto unhealthy relationships because I’m afraid of being alone.
- I stay with my partner out of convenience or fear of loneliness.
- I go to a job that I don’t enjoy, but it provides financial security.
- I struggle with debt and can’t seem to get on top of my finances.
- I avoid sitting with myself and my feelings, as it feels too overwhelming.
- I don’t feel like I’m offering anything valuable to the world.
- I take shortcuts when I’m unwell, relying on quick fixes like pills.
- I regularly use alcohol or drugs to suppress my feelings and manage stress.
What Drives You: Love or Fear?
Love is an energy of kindness, compassion, joy, peace, acceptance, and connection. It nurtures us, supports us, and fosters well-being. Fear, however, is expressed through anger, anxiety, depression, pain, addiction, greed, and judgment.
Rather than focusing on eliminating the darkness, we can choose to bring in the light—love.
Love is Essential for Life
Love is like the internal equivalent of oxygen. We need love to thrive. While it can sometimes feel clouded or obscured by life’s challenges, love never disappears—it is always there, waiting to be embraced.
As Marianne Williamson beautifully put it in Return to Love, “Human relationships exist to produce love as surely as a lack of oxygen will kill us, so will a lack of love.”
Shifting from Fear to Love
A miracle is essentially a shift in perception—from fear to love. The experience of love is a choice. Letting go and simply choosing to love is transformative. We are meant to shine and radiate love, as this is our true nature.
Our egos shape our perception of reality based on past experiences, creating a future that mirrors those past beliefs. But our internal state—the energy with which we approach life—determines how we experience the world. This is where true transformation lies.
Embrace the Energy of Love
Everything we do carries with it the energy behind it. Whether we act from a place of love or fear influences the outcome. Real transformation isn’t about what we do, but the consciousness with which we do it.
Naturopath Mental Health Melbourne is here to support you in understanding the powerful connection between love and fear. By choosing love, you can create lasting change and a life of fulfillment.
What do you choose? Need help finding out? Get in touch with me. I’d love to hear from you. Naturopath Mental Health Melbourne
You can also read another helpful information from ‘What causes Stress‘ and share with me what you think about it.
by Feeling Great | Spirit
“It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It’s necessary.” ~ Mandy Hale
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by Feeling Great | Mind, Spirit
Midlife Crisis or Midlife Transition?
Understanding the Signs and How to Navigate Them
A midlife crisis often manifests through feelings of anxiety, confusion, and discontent. During this time, many people question their purpose and life direction. One of the most significant signs is making major lifestyle changes, such as altering careers or relationships. Friends and family may notice these changes before you do.
What is a Midlife Crisis?
A midlife crisis is a natural phase that occurs as you transition biologically and emotionally. Every 7 to 9 years, we undergo significant personal changes. For example, adolescence is one of the first major transitions, and midlife is another. Midlife, often occurring between ages 35-55, marks the end of reproductive years and the opportunity to focus on personal growth. While stress, loss, or life changes may trigger a crisis, it can also offer a chance for transformation and self-discovery.
11 Common Signs of a Midlife Crisis
- Desire to escape to a new place
- Feeling stuck in your job or considering quitting
- Unexplained periods of low mood or depression
- Feeling trapped by family relationships
- Constantly questioning “Where am I going in life?”
- Struggling with financial responsibilities
- Yearning for a simpler life
- Experiencing stress or trauma (divorce, death, health crisis)
- Irritability or sudden anger
- Acting out of character
- Sudden urge to get fit or change appearance
Why Do Midlife Crises Happen?
A midlife crisis or transition serves as an opportunity to realign and find your true path. At this stage, you may feel as though you are becoming two people: the mature self handling responsibilities, and the younger, more spontaneous self yearning for freedom. This clash can create confusion, but it’s part of a transformational process. With time, these two aspects of yourself can merge into a balanced, integrated identity.
How to Turn Your Midlife Crisis Into a Transition
- Acknowledge and own your feelings: Denying emotions only leads to frustration. Embrace them and process them gradually.
- Take small steps: Making minor mistakes is part of the process, and these are easier to recover from.
- Avoid drastic decisions: Instead of running away, reduce the pressures gradually to create space for growth.
- Incorporate movement and exercise: Activities like yoga, swimming, or dance help reconnect mind, body, and spirit.
- Express yourself creatively: Writing or engaging in art helps you explore new sides of yourself.
- Be mindful about who you share with: Some people may not understand or may judge you. Choose supportive individuals who encourage growth.
- Release self-judgment: Let go of limiting beliefs to open new paths for change.
How Long Will a Midlife Crisis Last?
The midlife transition typically lasts 3 to 5 years, with ups and downs. For some, the crisis may repeat every 7 years. However, seeking guidance can lead to quicker resolutions, sometimes in under 2 years. Patience and self-compassion are key during this period of growth and transformation.
Final Thoughts: This is a time of learning, evolving, and thriving. Embrace the process, go slow, and enjoy the journey!
by Feeling Great | Spirit
Domestic Violence – The Silent Epidemic
Domestic violence continues to harm our communities, yet it often remains hidden. Every day, I witness the deep impact it has on women—both past and present. It’s time to bring this issue into the light and speak up.
Shocking Domestic Violence Statistics in Australia
Did you know:
- 1 in 3 women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from someone they know.
- 1 in 5 women over 18 have been stalked in their lifetime.
- 1 in 5 women have faced harassment in their workplace. (Source: White Ribbon)
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence includes violence, abuse, and intimidation between people in an intimate relationship. The abuser uses control and fear to dominate the victim, violating their basic human rights.
Forms of Domestic Violence:
- Emotional and verbal abuse
- Financial and psychological control
- Physical and sexual assault
- Isolation from family and friends
- Restricting religious or cultural practices
To illustrate the reality of domestic violence, here’s Sharon’s story.
Sharon, in her 50s, came to see me feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and anxious. She wanted to regain her health and energy to care for her aging parents, support her three teenage sons, and maintain her part-time job.
During our sessions, she revealed a painful truth—one of her teenage sons had pushed her into a metal pole, cracking her rib, simply because she enforced an internet curfew. Even worse, her husband justified the act, blaming her for “provoking” it.
This is not okay.
Breaking the Silence on Domestic Violence
Domestic violence isn’t just physical—it manifests in many ways. Here are some common forms:
- Emotional abuse: Name-calling, mind games, put-downs, silent treatment, excessive jealousy.
- Social abuse: Isolation, public humiliation, controlling movements, monitoring phone calls.
- Financial abuse: Controlling money, forcing debt, gambling away assets, withholding financial resources.
- Physical abuse: Hitting, pushing, intimidation, property damage, forced physical labor.
- Sexual abuse: Coerced acts, humiliation, non-consensual demands, sexual harassment.
More recently, domestic violence has been increasing among teenage boys, especially those addicted to violent video games. Exposure to aggression without consequences can normalize disrespectful and harmful behavior.
Preventing Domestic Violence Starts with Us
Violence against women begins with a lack of respect. When we excuse harmful behavior—whether by saying “it’s not that bad” or blaming the victim—we allow it to grow. Violence is never acceptable.
Victims often realize, in hindsight, that warning signs were present early on. It’s our responsibility to recognize these signs before they escalate.
As adults, we have the greatest influence on young minds. By challenging disrespect and addressing harmful attitudes, we can break the cycle. Teaching our children about respect and consent is just as important as warning our daughters to be cautious.
Creating a Future Free from Domestic Violence
The research is clear—violence against women starts with early attitudes and behaviors passed down through generations. Changing the statistics begins with changing ourselves.
- Parents, teachers, coaches, and employers play a crucial role in shaping the next generation’s beliefs.
- Small, consistent changes in how we speak and act make a lasting impact.
- The way we think influences the words we use, and our words shape the world around us.
If we want a future free from gender violence and inequality, we must start now. Reflect on your own attitudes, challenge harmful beliefs, and set an example for the next generation.
Together, we can break the cycle.
Try reading this as well Fear and Anxiety Difference or this Attract Your Goals: Holistic Life Coach Melbourne – Find Yourself and share with us your experience!
CLICK HERE to book an appointment with me!
