Health, well-being, lifestyle — Australia’s lifestyle quarterly.
Category
The "manosphere" is influencing boys' views on masculinity and relationships. Here's what parents need to know and how to start conversations that matter.
What every worker should know before they need it By Kev Perry In today’s workplaces, whether in corporate offices, healthcare settings, retail, education or community services, most people are navigating increasingly complex environments. We tend to think of workplace incidents as sudden or unpredictable, but in reality they are rarely random. In our work at Persec Services, where we train organisations across Australia in occupational violence and aggression prevention, we consistently see the same pattern. Escalation is usually preceded by subtle signals. The challenge is not a lack of warning. It is a lack of awareness. Situational awareness is not about being anxious or suspicious. It is about recognising early indicators of risk and responding calmly before a situation intensifies. What situational awareness really means Throughout the day we naturally shift between different levels of awareness. When we are busy, distracted or fatigued, our attention narrows. In those moments, small behavioural or environmental changes can go unnoticed. Effective situational awareness involves noticing shifts in tone, body language or behaviour. It means being conscious of your physical positioning in a space, recognising when someone’s emotional state changes and understanding environmental risk factors such as isolation, lighting or exit access. In practical terms, it is about identifying when something does not look right, sound right or feel right, and allowing yourself to respond early rather than dismissing the discomfort. Recognising early signs of escalation Aggression often develops gradually. It may begin with subtle cues such as a sharper tone, repeated complaints delivered with increasing intensity, dismissive language or visible frustration like pacing or clenched jaws. Personal space may begin to shrink. Boundaries may be tested under the guise of humour. These behaviours may not appear dramatic, but they can signal a rising emotional load. Many women are particularly attuned to these shifts, yet are often socially conditioned to downplay their instincts. Trusting that awareness is not overreacting. It is informed pattern recognition. Environmental factors matter Risk is not solely about individual behaviour. Workplace design and conditions also play a role. Working late alone, navigating poorly lit car parks, meeting in isolated rooms without clear exit routes or lacking accessible duress systems can increase vulnerability. Simple strategies such as positioning yourself closer to an exit, maintaining appropriate distance or ensuring a colleague is aware of your location can significantly reduce risk. These are not dramatic actions. They are practical considerations. The importance of boundaries One of the most common workplace myths is that being polite is safer than being firm. In reality, professional boundaries are protective. Clear communication, calm disengagement and creating space when needed are not signs of rudeness. They are appropriate responses to discomfort. You are not responsible for managing someone else’s emotional state, but you are responsible for your own safety and behaviour. If tension begins to rise, lowering your voice, slowing your speech and acknowledging emotion without escalating it can help stabilise a situation. Increasing physical distance and offering clear options can further reduce the likelihood of escalation. Why near-misses should not be ignored Serious incidents are often preceded by smaller events that go unreported. A comment dismissed as “just having a bad day”. A repeated boundary violation brushed aside. Verbal hostility tolerated because it did not become physical. Documenting and reporting these moments is not about creating conflict. It is about identifying patterns, strengthening workplace health and safety compliance and preventing future harm. Workplaces with strong safety cultures treat near-misses as valuable information rather than inconvenience. What supportive workplace culture looks like A healthy safety culture takes concerns seriously, avoids victim-blaming and conducts timely risk reviews. It provides clear feedback on actions taken and prioritises prevention over reaction. Psychological safety supports physical safety. When employees feel confident raising concerns early, escalation becomes far less likely. Five practical considerations Starting tomorrow, consider the following: Does your workplace layout support your personal safety needs? Are there repeated personal space violations from staff, clients or customers? Do reporting procedures align with actual practice? Are there environmental blind spots such as isolated meeting rooms or poorly lit car parks? Does your workplace culture encourage speaking up without fear of dismissal? Situational awareness is not dramatic or confrontational. It is subtle, consistent and preventative. When practised regularly, it reduces risk long before a crisis develops. In modern workplaces, that quiet vigilance is not excessive. It is essential.
Skin tells a story; a story of sunlight, laughter and sometimes, survival. What many people don’t expect, though, is how deeply medical procedures can change the way their skin looks and feels. Every year, thousands of Australians undergo treatments that save lives or restore health: mole removals, skin cancer excisions, surgical repairs, grafts and more. The priority is always recovery. But long after the medical journey is over, visible reminders often stay behind — pale or dark scars, areas of missing pigment, grafts that don’t blend with surrounding skin. For some, it’s a quiet reminder of illness, surgery or trauma. For others, it affects how confidently they see themselves. Many are told that nothing more can be done, that the scar will “settle” with time. But for a growing number of people, that’s not the end of the story. There is a next step, and it’s called medical tattooing. Medical tattooing is a specialised form of skin restoration that helps rebalance colour and camouflage areas affected by scarring or pigment loss. Unlike cosmetic tattooing, which focuses on enhancing brows or lips, medical tattooing is about restoration: helping the treated area look more like the surrounding skin. Using advanced pigments and precise micro-techniques, practitioners can reintroduce false melanin into lighter scars, soften darker marks, and create a more natural, blended appearance. “It’s about restoring normalcy,” says Kat McCann, a three-time Australian Cosmetic Tattooist of the Year. “When someone looks in the mirror and sees their skin, not their scar, it changes how they feel in their own body.” The technique can support many types of scarring, including surgical scars, accident-related injuries, burns and grafts. It helps reduce contrast, even out tone and restore visual balance. Is it right for you? Your scar or graft is fully healed, flat and stable in colour. You’ve received medical clearance following surgical or cancer-related treatment. You want to restore natural tone or reduce contrast in a visible area. Why it matters Medical tattooing isn’t about vanity, it’s about resolution. It’s often the quiet, final stage of healing that helps people reconnect with their confidence and sense of self. Did you know? • Australia has one of the highest rates of skin-cancer treatment in the world, resulting in thousands of surgical excisions every year. • Many of these procedures leave pigment loss or scar contrast that remains visible, even after full healing. • Medical tattooing provides a long-term, non-invasive way to blend these areas naturally back into the skin. About the author Kat McCann is a medical tattooist and educator, and a three-time recipient of the Australian Cosmetic Tattooist of the Year award. Through her studio, INKA Cosmetic & Medical Tattoo, she specialises in advanced scar camouflage and restorative tattooing for trauma-affected skin. Complimentary consultations are available for those wanting to know more. Visit www.inkaonlima.com to learn more.
By Jan Herdman, Founder of Ageless Transformations At 67, I’m proud to be one of the oldest at the gym rather than the youngest in a nursing home. And I want you to know, this isn’t genetics, luck or expensive treatments. It’s the result of simple, consistent choices that any woman can make starting today. Consistency beats perfection every time I see too many women wait for motivation or try to do everything perfectly. The truth? A balanced routine you actually follow beats sporadic gym sessions every time. What to do: Aim for a good mix of cardio and strength training at least four times a week. This doesn’t mean you need to spend hours at the gym—a 45-minute session makes a real difference. The key is showing up consistently, not waiting until you feel motivated or conditions are perfect. Schedule your workouts like appointments you can’t cancel. Confidence grows every time you keep a promise to yourself. Self-care is strength, not vanity Real self-care isn’t about perfection or deprivation. I follow a skincare routine because it makes me feel good. I nourish my body with protein-rich meals, stay hydrated, and practice meditation for mental clarity. And yes, I still enjoy my occasional glass of wine, because you can’t miss out on the things you love. What to do: Stop thinking of self-care as all-or-nothing – it’s about balance. Prioritise the fundamentals: good nutrition, proper hydration, quality sleep and stress management. But also give yourself permission to enjoy life. Book that health check. Take time to breathe and reset. Treat your body and mind with kindness, not restriction. Strong women inspire or intimidate-keep going anyway When you show up vibrant and strong in your 60s, you challenge what society expects. Some people will criticise. Others will ask how you did it. Remember: their reaction says more about them than about you. My wrinkles are real. My stretch marks are real. But so is my strength, my energy and my vitality. I lift weights so I can lift my suitcase when I travel. I build muscle so I can keep hiking and ballroom dancing. I move my body because I want to live with freedom, not limitation. What to do: Find your community. Surround yourself with women who are also choosing strength over shrinking. Whether it’s a gym class, walking group or online community, having support makes all the difference. The truth nobody tells you Ageing well isn’t about looking younger-it’s about feeling powerful, capable and ready for whatever life brings. Your 60s can be your strongest decade yet, but only if you start treating your body like it matters. Don’t wait for a wake-up call. Start with one small change today. Because the woman you’ll be at 70, 80 or 90 is being built by the choices you make right now. Jan Herdman is the founder of Ageless Transformations and creator of The Vitality Circle, helping women over 50 build strength, confidence and vitality through sustainable fitness and lifestyle changes.
By Dr Ross Walker, Integrative Cardiologist MBBS (Hons), FRACP, FCSANZ As women enter their 40s and beyond, many start to notice changes in sleep, energy and overall wellbeing. While these shifts are often attributed to hormones or stress, new research shows that sleep itself may be one of the most powerful yet underestimated factors in supporting long-term heart health. A landmark review published in Menopause: The Journal of the Menopause Society followed nearly 3,000 women over two decades. The findings were eye-opening: only one in five women in midlife were found to have “optimal” heart health, with poor sleep emerging as a critical driver of increased cardiovascular risk. Why sleep matters more than we think We’ve long known that blood pressure, cholesterol and diet are central to heart health. But this new research confirms that quality sleep—ideally seven to nine hours per night—belongs on the same priority list. During midlife, as women transition through menopause, hormonal shifts can disturb sleep and place extra strain on the cardiovascular system. “Sleep isn’t a luxury, it’s medicine for the heart,” explains Australia’s leading integrative cardiologist, Dr Ross Walker. “For women in midlife, this is the time when heart health risks begin to rise, and sleep becomes one of the most powerful tools for prevention.” The cellular connection: Powering your heart from within Beyond hormones, a woman’s heart health is also deeply tied to what’s happening at the cellular level. The heart is the body’s most energy-demanding organ, relying on mitochondria—the tiny powerhouses in every cell—to keep it beating around the clock. Mitochondrial function depends on Ubiquinol, a naturally occurring antioxidant that fuels energy production and helps protect cells from oxidative stress. However, from the age of 20, our natural levels of Ubiquinol begin to decline, a process accelerated by menopause and lifestyle factors such as stress or poor sleep. “Without healthy mitochondria, our hearts simply can’t function at their best,” says Dr Walker. “That’s why supporting mitochondrial health is not just an add-on—it’s central to preventative cardiovascular care for women.” Small shifts, big gains The good news? Women can take practical steps today to protect their heart health: Prioritise sleep: Build a calming night routine, avoid screens before bed, and aim for a consistent sleep schedule. Eat naturally: Choose whole, antioxidant-rich foods to support energy and reduce oxidative stress. Move daily: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. Support your mitochondria: Consult your healthcare professional to determine if nutritional support may be needed to maintain energy and resilience as you age. For women over 40, heart health is not just about avoiding illness—it’s about thriving. By prioritising sleep, supporting mitochondrial health and embracing simple daily habits, women can take decisive steps towards vitality, independence and longevity. Always read the label. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional.
By Bree Graham For many women, turning 40 is a milestone, often filled with confidence, self-assurance, and a deeper sense of self. But it’s also the age when whispers of “the change” start becoming reality. Menopause, the natural end of a woman’s reproductive years, typically occurs between 45 and 55, but symptoms can begin years earlier during a phase known as perimenopause. While menopause is a biological certainty, its impact on health, wellness, fitness, and overall quality of life can be significant—and varies widely from woman to woman, but rest assured – We all feel it! Hormones in Transition The most typical quality of menopause is the gradual decline in oestrogen and progesterone, the two main ‘female’ hormones that regulate not just the menstrual cycle but a range of other functions. This hormonal shift can lead to hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disturbances among others—all of which affect daily life and energy levels. But the changes run deeper. Health & Wellness Concerns Menopause brings increased risks for certain health issues. Bone density begins to decline, raising the risk of Osteoporosis, Cholesterol levels may rise, potentially impacting heart health and weight gain, especially around the abdomen, is common—even for women who haven’t changed their eating or exercise habits. These shifts can feel frustrating, but awareness is empowering. Regular screenings, a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and support from Trainers and Medical Professionals can help manage these changes proactively. Fitness: Adapting for Strength and Wellbeing Many women over 40 notice a decline in muscle mass and metabolism. Workouts that once maintained their weight and strength may no longer be as effective due to the decline in hormones. This is the time to reassess your fitness routine. Strength training becomes essential—not just to maintain muscle but to support bone health. low-impact cardio and mobility-based workouts can also help manage weight, improve flexibility, and reduce stress. Mood Matters Mood swings, anxiety, and even depression can surface or intensify during menopause, sometimes catching women off guard. This emotional turbulence is often tied to fluctuating hormone levels, compounded by sleep disruptions and the life changes common at this age—career shifts, aging parents, or children leaving home etc. Talking openly about Mental Health, seeking support from professionals, and building a network of understanding friends can make a significant difference. Redefining Quality of Life Despite the challenges, menopause can also be a liberating time. Many women describe it as a turning point—a time to focus on themselves, their goals, and their well-being. With the right information, support, and self-care, menopause can be reframed not as an ending, but as a powerful new beginning. At Vision Personal Training, we see Menopause as exactly that and we are here to help you navigate the challenges and feel empowered throughout the journey! After all, ageing is inevitable—but how you navigate it is entirely your own choice Feel StrongHER: The Fitness Program Every Woman Over 40 Needs Right Now If you’re over 40 and feeling like your body is suddenly operating on a whole new setting, you’re not alone. We know this new chapter can feel like a minefield. But what if there was a way to feel strong, supported, and in control again? Introducing strongHER—a brand-new program launched by Vision Personal Training specifically for women navigating perimenopause and menopause! It’s not just another cookie-cutter workout plan with false promises. It’s a smart, science-backed approach to wellness that meets you where you are and helps you move forward with confidence. This phase of life demands more than quick-fix solutions or one size fits all fitness classes. Hormonal changes affect everything—from how your body stores fat to how it builds muscle and even how you recover. strongHER is built with those exact needs in mind. Strength-based training forms the foundation of our program, helping you protect lean muscle mass and support bone density—two key health concerns during menopause. This isn’t about lifting heavy for the sake of it; it’s about building lasting strength for life while also reducing the risk of health concerns such as Osteoporosis and High Cholesterol. Tailored nutrition support ensures your eating habits are aligned with your body’s hormonal shifts and energy needs. You’ll learn how to fuel yourself to feel better, think clearer, and maintain a healthy weight, while still enjoying the menu. Cardio that works with your body, not against it. Say goodbye to overtraining and burnout. Our approach helps you maintain fitness without draining your already taxed system and it’s built specifically for your body! 1:1 coaching with trainers who get it. Our team is specifically trained in menopause support, so you’re never alone or misunderstood. Whether you’re brand new to fitness or already active, you’ll have someone guiding you every step of the way. So, if you’re feeling the shift—or just starting to—know that there is support with us here at Vision Personal Training. strongHER isn’t about fighting your changing body, it’s about working with it to become stronger, clearer, and more confident than ever. Menopause may change your body, but it doesn’t have to steal your strength or diminish your confidence! It’s time to train smarter, not harder. It’s time to feel strongHER.
There’s something about summer that shifts our internal rhythm. The days stretch a little longer, the evenings linger with soft golden light, and life feels just a touch lighter. As the warmer weather settles in, we’re given a natural invitation to move, breathe, and reconnect with ourselves, with others, and with the world around us. Summer is one of the most powerful seasonal resets we get. Warmth itself is regulating; it relaxes tense muscles, softens our nervous system, and encourages us to step outside of our routines. With sunlight comes serotonin, that gentle lift in mood that reminds us we are allowed to feel good. And with longer days comes opportunity. So how can we make the most of it, authentically, simply, and in ways that truly support our mental wellbeing? Start with small outdoor rituals. Morning walks, barefoot moments on the grass, or sipping your first coffee outside. These tiny acts of presence anchor your nervous system and set the tone for the day. Lean into water. Oceans, rivers, pools, or even a cold afternoon shower. Water recalibrates us. It washes away mental noise and helps us drop back into our bodies. Movement becomes joy again in summer. Try sunrise swims, evening bike rides, shaded hikes, paddleboarding, or community outdoor yoga. You’re not exercising for performance, you’re moving because it feels good. Create connection moments. Warm weather invites spontaneity: twilight picnics, family BBQs, long conversations on balconies, weekend markets. Social connection is one of the strongest predictors of resilience and emotional health. And finally, let your schedule breathe. Slow down where you can. Choose rest when your body asks for it. Summer isn’t just a season, it’s a reminder that lightness is allowed. Embrace it. Let it soften you. Let it fill your cup again.
Feeling tired, flat or foggy? It might not be “just life”, and you’re not alone. A growing number of health experts are warning of a silent “energy epidemic” affecting Australians nationwide, and the causes may be hiding in your blood. Iron and vitamin D deficiencies are quietly draining the vitality of millions, with women among the most at risk. As we shake off winter and settle into warmer days, many people are discovering that their low energy, mood swings and constant fatigue aren’t simply part of a busy lifestyle. In many cases, they’re signs of low iron or low vitamin D. The sunshine vitamin dip Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, a resilient immune system and healthy energy levels. But because it’s made through sunlight exposure, winter naturally sends levels dipping, and for many Australians, they stay low well into summer. Sunscreen use, indoor work and lifestyle habits all contribute. More than one in five Australian adults are now vitamin D deficient, and nearly two million Australians are low in iron. Women and teenage girls are particularly vulnerable, with up to 40% of girls aged 14–18 not meeting their daily iron needs. Symptoms like tiredness, brain fog, breathlessness, low mood and frequent illness can all signal a deficiency. But because these signs are so easy to blame on stress or exhaustion, the underlying cause often goes unnoticed until daily life is heavily affected. That’s where at-home testing comes in handy. You can test your levels at home with a Ferritin Rapid Test and Vitamin D Rapid Test – designed for convenient use in the privacy of the home, available from local pharmacies, without needing a GP appointment. A mum’s wake-up call For Stephanie Saunders, a nurse and mum-of-six, the signs blended into the noise of everyday life. “As a nurse and a mum, I’m used to being tired,” she says. “But after months of feeling constantly run down and foggy, I realised something wasn’t right. Testing my iron and vitamin D levels showed both were low, and once I addressed it, the difference in my energy and mood was incredible.” Now, Stephanie encourages other busy parents to check their levels, even if they think tiredness is “normal”. “These simple self-tests make it so much easier to stay on top of your health without adding more to your already full schedule,” she says. Taking charge of your energy With GP access becoming harder and out-of-pocket costs rising, at-home testing has become a convenient and proactive way to monitor your health. Identifying deficiencies early means fewer surprises, and more energy to enjoy the months ahead. So, if you’ve been feeling unusually tired, flat or foggy, it may be time to look beyond stress, sleep and lifestyle. A simple nutrient check could be the missing piece, and your body might be asking for a little extra support.
By Azra Alagic They say a long and healthy life starts from within, and science agrees. In fact, around 70% of the immune system lives in your gut, making gut health one of the most powerful drivers of overall wellbeing. A healthy gut doesn’t just aid digestion; it plays a key role in immunity, metabolism, hormone regulation, and even how we age. Your gut communicates directly with your brain, influencing mood, cognition, and stress resilience. When your gut microbiome is diverse and balanced, it helps you absorb nutrients more effectively, fuels energy production, and builds resilience against disease. But when things go wrong, a state known as dysbiosis, it can contribute to obesity, diabetes, autoimmune conditions, cardiovascular disease, and even dementia. What is biohacking? Biohacking is about understanding how your body works and making small, deliberate changes to help it work better. It’s the practice of experimenting with your lifestyle, diet and environment to improve energy, focus, sleep, mood and overall health. In simple terms, biohacking means using science, self-awareness and everyday habits to help your body and mind perform at their best. Why a long and healthy life starts in your gut They say good health starts from within, and science agrees. Around 70 per cent of your immune system lives in your gut, making gut health one of the most important factors in long-term wellbeing. A healthy gut doesn’t just support digestion; it affects your immunity, metabolism, hormones and even how you age. Your gut and brain are constantly communicating, which means gut health can influence your mood, focus and stress levels. When your gut microbiome — the community of bacteria living in your digestive system — is balanced and diverse, it helps your body absorb nutrients, produce energy and protect against disease. But when things get out of balance (a condition known as dysbiosis), it can contribute to obesity, diabetes, autoimmune conditions, heart disease and even dementia. After nine years as a biohacker, I’ve learned that improving gut health isn’t complicated. The problem is that there’s a lot of misinformation out there, especially in the biohacking world, where people think you need expensive gadgets or supplements to succeed. You don’t. Through my one-on-one coaching at BiohackHer, I help people focus on what really works. Simple, science-backed habits that improve your health from the inside out. My top simple biohacks for your gut Move your body regularly. Exercise improves the diversity of healthy gut bacteria and reduces inflammation. Get restorative sleep. Aim for seven to eight hours each night. Your gut microbes follow a natural rhythm, so when your sleep is disrupted, they are too. Eat for your gut. Include at least 25g of fibre daily, plus prebiotics like garlic, onions and bananas; probiotics from fermented foods such as kefir, miso and kimchi; and polyphenols from foods like berries, olive oil and green tea. Avoid processed foods and refined sugar as these feed bad bacteria and promote inflammation. Limit alcohol, as it irritates and inflames the gut lining. Reduce stress, as high cortisol levels upset gut balance and trigger inflammation. Pro tips To take your gut health a step further, start the day with a shot of organic apple cider vinegar diluted in water to activate your digestive system. You can also try adding glutamine, an amino acid that supports gut lining health, reduces inflammation and strengthens your immune system. Biohacking doesn’t need to be extreme or expensive. It’s simply about tuning into your body and making small, consistent changes that reduce inflammation and support your gut. When your gut is healthy, everything else starts to fall into place. To learn more, visit www.biohack-her.com. About Azra Azra Alagic is a passionate biohacker, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and Behaviour Change Specialist. After overcoming her own health challenges, including gut dysbiosis, chronic fatigue and mercury toxicity, she began biohacking to rebuild her health, and now helps others do the same.
Whether you have been celebrating with friends or simply enjoyed one too many wines at dinner, the morning after often shows up on your skin before it hits anywhere else. But with the right rituals, you can bounce back looking fresh, glowing and ready to take on the day. Registered Nurse Samara Searle shares her go-to post-party skincare and wellness routine for restoring your glow from the inside out. “Your skin is always the first to show signs of a big night,” Samara says. “Dehydration, puffiness and dullness can all set in quickly. The good news is that with a few easy steps, you can reset your skin and body and get back to looking your best.” Preparation is key Samara believes the best morning-after glow actually begins before the night out. “Preparation plays a massive role in prevention,” she explains. “In the weeks leading up to big events or party season, investing in treatments like chemical peels or skin needling can make a huge difference. These treatments help boost collagen, refine texture and support your skin’s ability to bounce back quickly. When your skin is healthy and prepped, it recovers faster and holds on to that post-treatment glow, even after a long night.” Rehydrate, inside and out The first step, Samara says, is always hydration. “Alcohol and salty foods are major culprits for water loss. Start your morning with a big glass of water and add electrolytes if you can. This helps rehydrate your cells and flush out toxins.” For your skin, she recommends applying a hyaluronic acid serum followed by a nourishing moisturiser. “This combination plumps the skin and brings back that dewy finish.” Red light therapy If you wake up puffy, Samara swears by red light therapy. “You can use a red light therapy mask at home the morning after a late night, or if you really want to treat yourself, nothing beats a Healite II session at your clinic. It helps reduce inflammation, and it feels incredible after a big night out.” Cleanse gently and reset your barrier “It is tempting to skip cleansing when you are tired, but your skin needs it most after makeup and late nights,” she says. Samara suggests using a gentle cleanser followed by a barrier repair serum or cream. “The aim is to restore balance, not strip your skin further.” Support your body with essential fatty acids Finally, Samara encourages giving your body the support it needs to recover. “Opt for essential fatty acids before and after a night out, such as omega oils. These can help reduce inflammation, support liver function and improve sleep quality after drinking. All these small habits help your body feel rested faster.” Whether you are battling a skin hangover or an energy slump, Samara’s rituals are simple, effective and designed to help your body bounce back. “It is all about balance,” she says. “Enjoy the night, but make sure your morning after is full of self-care.” By Samara Searle, Nurse