Health and Wellness

Health and Wellness

How to Truly Switch Off on Holiday

  You’re finally on holiday—but your mind is still in the office. You’re mentally drafting emails, worrying about your to-do list, or checking notifications. With remote work and round-the-clock access to everything on our phones, the line between work and rest has blurred. The result? Many of us don’t really switch off, and that constant mental load can lead to burnout and poor mental health. Travel expert Justin Chapman from Go2Africa and psychologist Dr Seeta Shah from Panda London explain why it’s hard to disconnect—and how to actually make your time off feel like a break. Why It’s So Hard to Switch Off Modern work culture glorifies being busy and accessible. There’s often an unspoken pressure to be “on” at all times—even when you’re technically on leave. If your boss and colleagues work through their holidays, it’s easy to feel guilty for stepping away. Plus, the thought of returning to a backlog can feel more stressful than just staying semi-available while you’re away. But this mindset undermines the benefits of rest. “Disconnection from work can feel unfamiliar, especially if it’s only for a few days,” says Dr Shah. “But it’s a valuable chance to reset habits, including sleep, and to give your mind the space to recover.” Prepare Before You Travel Start switching off before your trip. Turn off work-related notifications outside of hours now, so it feels less abrupt when you go on leave. Incorporate relaxing activities like yoga or meditation after work, even for 15 minutes—it helps train your brain to unwind. Manage Your Devices More than half of us check work emails while on holiday. With your phone doubling as your map, camera and payment method, it’s hard to switch it off completely. But you can reduce temptation. Remove work apps from your home screen or turn off notifications altogether. If you absolutely must check in, limit yourself to 30 minutes a day—and only for urgent matters. Dr Shah warns that even a short glance at work emails can trigger anxiety and spike cortisol levels, undoing hours of relaxation. Schedule Real Downtime Many of us are so used to rushing through daily life that we overschedule holidays too. But if your itinerary is packed with back-to-back sightseeing, you’ll come home needing another holiday. Give yourself permission to rest. That might mean reading on the beach, wandering through a local town, or simply enjoying a morning coffee with no plans. “Squeezing in too much keeps your brain in go-mode,” says Dr Shah, “making it harder to sleep and recharge.” Plan Ahead Don’t leave everything to the last minute. Finish tasks early, hand over responsibilities, and let key contacts know you’ll be offline. It reduces anxiety and prevents holiday disruptions. Better yet, get someone else to plan the trip—travel experts can customise your itinerary and handle the logistics, freeing you up to enjoy the moment. Try Grounding Techniques Still feeling anxious? Use the 5-4-3-2-1 method to ground yourself: notice five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. It brings your focus back to the present—where your holiday is happening.

Health and Wellness

The #1 Habit for Healthy Weight Loss

  By Jade Harman, Nutritionist & Founder of Harman Health In our busy modern lives where looking and feeling your best is a priority, discovering truly effective weight management strategies can feel overwhelming. If you’re searching for the single most powerful habit to transform your weight loss journey, it might be simpler than you think: prioritising a proper breakfast, every single day. Many of us have fallen into the trap of rushing out with just a takeaway coffee, thinking we’re doing our bodies a favour by cutting calories. But this seemingly innocent morning routine could actually be sabotaging your weight loss goals! The Morning Metabolic Magic When you wake up after a night’s rest, your cortisol (stress hormone) levels are naturally elevated. A nourishing breakfast helps bring these levels down, while that hurried flat white actually pushes them higher. The surprising result? Your body’s natural fat-burning ability becomes suppressed – exactly what we’re trying to avoid! Perfect Pairings: Protein, Produce and Timing Australia is blessed with incredible fresh produce and protein sources. Starting your day with quality protein and fibre stabilises blood sugar levels throughout the morning. Rather than experiencing dramatic energy fluctuations that lead to reaching for office snacks, you’ll maintain steady energy for everything from work meetings to family commitments. Science shows your body is more insulin-sensitive in the morning hours – meaning it processes carbohydrates more efficiently earlier in the day. Plus, breakfast helps set your circadian rhythm, signalling to your body it’s time to be alert and energised for whatever your day holds. Maximising Your Fitness Results For those early-morning exercisers among us, this is especially crucial. Recent research specifically shows most women don’t perform as well when exercising on an empty stomach. Even a small pre-workout bite followed by a proper breakfast can dramatically improve your performance and recovery. For those working on toning and building lean muscle (which naturally boosts metabolism), breakfast provides your first opportunity to fuel those muscles with essential protein. In my practice across Australia, I’ve observed that a significant proportion of women struggling with weight management aren’t eating breakfast consistently. While it’s never the only factor, implementing a nourishing morning meal creates a positive ripple effect throughout the day – leading to better food choices, improved energy levels, and sustainable results that last through every season. Ready for real, sustainable weight loss? Join Jade’s transformative “Worth Your Weight” programme and discover evidence-based nutrition strategies that actually work. Visit harmanhealth.com.au to connect with Jade and break free from frustrating diet cycles. Photo by Chris Ralston on Unsplash

Health and Wellness

The Quiet Hair Loss Epidemic Among Women

  Women in their 20s are increasingly reaching out for help with patchy brows and thinning hair—and it’s not just a concern for the young. Women in their 50s and 60s are also experiencing noticeable hair loss, according to Ally Dellabarca, founder and CEO of RadianceRevolution.com.au. “It’s a quiet, emotional struggle for many and one that isn’t talked about enough,” Dellabarca says. “Women don’t know where to turn or who to speak with. I’ve spoken with so many who are grateful to find a product that works and helps ease their anxiety and fear.” What’s behind the rise in hair and brow loss? Hair loss in women is rarely caused by a single issue. Dellabarca points to a combination of chronic stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and years of harsh beauty treatments as contributing factors. Stress alone can trigger telogen effluvium, a condition that pushes more hairs than usual into the shedding phase. Hormonal fluctuations from perimenopause, postpartum recovery, thyroid issues or certain contraceptives can also affect follicle health and disrupt the hair growth cycle. Brow thinning is increasingly common, too. Over-plucking, waxing, chemical treatments, and environmental stressors have all taken a toll on the delicate skin and follicles in the brow area. “This isn’t about vanity—it’s about identity,” says Dellabarca. “Hair and brows frame how we see ourselves. Losing them can have a profound impact on self-esteem and confidence.”   Effective treatments exist—but choose wisely While the issue is becoming more widespread, so are the treatment options. Dellabarca encourages women to explore clinically supported, multi-functional topical treatments that are specifically designed to nourish and repair the scalp and brow area. The most effective products are formulated with anti-inflammatory botanicals, nourishing plant extracts, and active ingredients that restore balance and boost circulation to the follicle. “There are a number of highly effective, clinically proven products available today that help reduce hair shedding and promote regrowth,” Dellabarca says. “But it’s important to steer clear of anything that promises overnight results or contains harsh, untested chemicals.” Quick fixes and aggressive treatments can actually cause more damage, inflaming the skin or irritating the follicles further. “Hair growth is a slow, regenerative process,” she adds. “Be patient, stay consistent, and choose products that support the skin’s natural repair process instead of adding more stress.”   Don’t ignore what your hair is telling you Hair loss can be more than just a cosmetic concern—it can be a sign of what’s happening beneath the surface. “Hair thinning or shedding is often a symptom of stress, hormone shifts, inflammation, or nutritional imbalance,” Dellabarca says. “Don’t ignore it, and don’t be embarrassed to talk about it. Early action can make a huge difference.”

Health and Wellness

The Hidden Toll of Financial Abuse and Debt on Single Parents

  Controlling behaviour is a major red flag in any relationship—and it often extends far beyond emotional or physical abuse. Financial abuse is an increasingly common and damaging form of control and it can be especially frightening if you’re already in debt. Financial abuse is often overlooked or minimised, and many people feel embarrassed to talk about it. But recognising the signs and reaching out early is essential. What Does Financial Abuse Look Like? Financial abuse can take many forms. Some signs to watch for include: Being forced to take out loans or credit in your name Having your bank account login details taken or changed Someone adding their name to your account without your consent Money being spent by someone who promised to use it for bills or groceries—but didn’t Being asked to justify or explain every purchase Being stopped from accessing your own banking or credit accounts Being told what you can or can’t spend your money on Being coerced into cancelling or changing insurance policies If any of these sound familiar, talk to someone you trust and seek professional help. Debt and Mental Health Debt is stressful for anyone, but the emotional toll is especially heavy for single parents. Managing bills, childcare, and basic living expenses on one income is tough—especially for those working part-time to reduce childcare costs. The pressure to be the sole provider can leave parents feeling anxious and overwhelmed. The Biggest Financial Pressures Food & Bills Rent or mortgage aside, single parents say their biggest costs are food and household bills. Many report that bills consume the majority of their income, closely followed by the cost of feeding their families. Worryingly, a significant number say they’ve had to cut back on essentials like groceries or utilities just to make ends meet. Food prices alone saw a steep rise between early 2022 and early 2024—well above the average increases seen in the previous decade. Childcare Costs Childcare continues to be a major financial burden. Single dads are more likely to be working full-time, while many single mums juggle part-time work or unemployment, often due to the demands of childcare. While working fewer hours can ease childcare expenses in the short term, it can also limit long-term financial security. Many single mothers, in particular, express deep concern about what this means for their financial future. What Can You Do? Track Your Progress Keep a record of small financial wins—like avoiding a takeaway or making a minimum debt payment. These moments serve as reminders of progress when things feel overwhelming. Talk to Your Lender If you’re in debt, don’t ignore it. Contact your lender and ask about manageable payment plans. Debt Management Plans (DMPs) can help consolidate and reduce repayments on unsecured debts. Get Support Mental health support is just as important as financial advice. Speak to your GP or another mental health professional if you’re concerned about your state of mind. You’re not alone—and help is available. Reaching out is the first step to regaining control.

Health and Wellness

Different by Design

  How Men and Women Approach Health — and What We Can Learn From Each Other. When it comes to health, men and women are not created equal — and that’s not a bad thing. Understanding the differences can be the key to living longer, healthier, and stronger lives. Biology plays a big role. Men face higher risks of heart disease earlier in life, along with greater incidences of certain cancers like colorectal and prostate cancer. Women, on the other hand, are more likely to encounter autoimmune conditions, osteoporosis, and the intense hormonal changes of menopause. Hormones matter too. While men experience a gradual decline in testosterone as they age, women’s hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause are often far more sudden and dramatic, impacting mood, metabolism, and cardiovascular health in major ways. Mental health trends also differ. Women are statistically more likely to be diagnosed with depression and anxiety, while men often mask emotional struggles — leading to higher rates of suicide and untreated mental health conditions. Traditional stereotypes encouraging men to “tough it out” and discouraging emotional openness continue to carry a heavy cost. When it comes to seeking help, women lead the way. Women are far more proactive about preventative healthcare — booking regular check-ups, screenings, and addressing symptoms early. Men are more likely to delay medical visits until issues become serious, putting them at greater risk of late-stage diagnosis and complications. Longevity statistics consistently show women living longer. Globally, women outlive men by an average of five to seven years — but experts say men can close that gap by adopting some of the habits women excel at: preventative care, emotional expression, and a balanced approach to wellness. The real opportunity? Learning from each other. Men can benefit from adopting women’s proactive, communicative approach to health. Women can also take strength from some traditionally male traits — resilience, goal-driven wellness strategies, and self-advocacy in medical settings. And both genders can break free from outdated ideas about vulnerability, strength, and emotional health. In 2025 and beyond, understanding these differences isn’t about competition. It’s about collaboration — and building healthier, happier lives together.

Health and Wellness

Job Interviews Go Both Ways

Red Flags to Watch for and Questions You Should Ask. Job hunting can be stressful—from last-minute CV tweaks to awkward questions like “Where do you see yourself in five years?”, not to mention the silence that can follow an interview. But amid the pressure, it’s easy to forget that job interviews are a two-way street. Just as the company is evaluating you, you should be evaluating them to see if they’re the right fit for your lifestyle, values, and career goals. There are more than 16 million TikTok posts under “red flags in job interviews”, and searches for the term have surged by 156 per cent in the past month. Here are the six red flags to watch for, according to Somebody Digital, plus six smart questions to uncover the true culture behind the job ad. Red Flags to Watch For Constant Rescheduling A single date change is fine—but repeated last-minute reschedules show a lack of respect for your time and may reflect poor internal communication or disorganisation. Vague Role Descriptions Your interviewer should clearly explain the role, responsibilities, and how it fits into the company’s goals. Evasive answers may mean they’re hiding high turnover, poor culture, or unclear leadership. Blurred Boundaries If a remote role comes with after-hours emails or no clarity around working hours, that’s a red flag. Respect for work-life balance matters, even outside the office. Bait and Switch If the job discussed in the interview differs wildly from the ad, be wary. This tactic sets false expectations and hints at broader honesty issues within the company. Badmouthing Former Staff If they complain about the last person in the role, take note. It suggests low morale, poor leadership, and a potentially toxic environment. Overly Personal Questions Questions about your health, family, or personal life are inappropriate and signal poor understanding of boundaries—something that could continue if you accept the role.   Questions You Should Ask What Can I Expect on My First Day? This reveals how well they onboard new employees. A lack of structure or support could point to overworked teams or poor planning. What’s the Best Part of Working Here? If the interviewer struggles to answer, it could mean the perks are minimal—or that job satisfaction isn’t a priority. Do Team Members Socialise Outside of Work? This helps gauge the company culture. Whether you prefer a social environment or strict boundaries, the answer will help you assess fit. What Could I Do to Exceed Expectations in This Role? This question gives insight into whether expectations are realistic and helps clarify what success in the role actually looks like. How Do You Recognise Success? If promotions or recognition are vague or rare, you may struggle to grow in the role. A lack of recognition is a key reason people leave jobs. How Do You Include Remote Workers in the Team? With hybrid work common, it’s vital to know how remote staff are supported and included. Collaboration shouldn’t suffer just because you’re off-site.   By looking out for red flags and asking the right questions, you’ll be in a stronger position to choose a role that supports your growth—and avoids unnecessary stress down the line.

Health and Wellness

Swipe, style, surgery

Are Dating Apps Changing the Face of Beauty? In today’s swipe-right world, finding love is only a profile picture away. But behind the filtered photos and witty bios, a new study is revealing a more complex reality: dating apps may be fuelling a rising obsession with cosmetic procedures, particularly among women. Researchers from the University of South Australia have found that women who use dating apps are 20% more likely to consider or undergo cosmetic enhancements like dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections. The reason? The pressure to look perfect in a digital-first dating world. Dating apps have reduced the stigma around meeting partners online, but they’ve also created new kinds of social pressure – especially when it comes to how we look. While social media’s impact on body image is well-documented, this study is among the first to specifically examine the effect of dating apps. The visual nature of dating apps prioritises photo-based profiles, placing pressure, particularly on women, to project an idealised and perfect version of themselves. The connection between dating apps and appearance-altering choices isn’t just skin-deep. Women who use dating apps also reported more positive attitudes towards cosmetic surgery than non-users. What’s more, those who frequently use filters or digitally edit their images were also more likely to consider real-life cosmetic procedures. When you are so used to seeing yourself through a range of filters and airbrushing, it can be tempting to make those edits come to life through cosmetic enhancements. The research surveyed over 300 Australian women aged 18 to 72. Nearly half had used a dating app within the past two years, and one in five reported having had at least one cosmetic procedure. Introducing more personality-based matching algorithms could also be considered to reduce the emphasis on physical looks, and apps could offer built-in body image interventions such as self-compassion exercises to mitigate the pressures to alter one’s appearance. With dating app usage growing rapidly – eHarmony predicts more than 70% of relationships will begin online by 2040 – these concerns are becoming increasingly relevant. The culture of digital dating is changing not only how people meet, but how they see themselves.

Health and Wellness

Integrating mental and physical well-being

It’s 2025, where the landscape of health and wellness is undergoing significant transformation, emphasising the integration of mental and physical well-being. Here at Getit, we recognise the importance of addressing both aspects to foster holistic health.    Personalised Health Approaches  Advancements in technology have paved the way for personalised health strategies. Precision medicine tailors treatments based on individual genetics, environment, and lifestyle, enhancing effectiveness and minimising side effects. Wearable health tech, such as smartwatches, now monitors various health metrics, empowering individuals to take proactive roles in their health management.     Mental Fitness and Digital Well-being  The digital age presents unique challenges, including decreased attention spans and increased mental fatigue. Mental fitness has emerged as a crucial practice, involving mindfulness meditation, digital minimalism, and single-tasking to enhance cognitive function and emotional resilience. Additionally, the rise of AI-driven mental health support offers accessible, personalised care, allowing individuals to receive therapy from virtually anywhere.     Holistic and Integrative Health  There’s a growing trend towards holistic health, combining conventional medicine with alternative therapies like naturopathy, acupuncture, yoga, and herbal treatments. This integrative approach allows individuals to choose personalised strategies that promote a balanced and sustainable quality of life.     Community and Connection  Rebuilding a sense of community is essential for overall well-being. Social connections have a profound impact on mental and physical health, and fostering local connections can enhance trust and support within communities.

Health and Wellness

The Hidden Dangers of Permanent Dermal Fillers

As facial rejuvenation treatments grow in popularity, Dr. Vivek Eranki, CEO of Cosmetique is urging Australians to think twice before opting for permanent dermal fillers. While temporary fillers have become a safe and widely accepted choice, permanent fillers carry significant long-term risks that are often overlooked. Permanent fillers, made from substances like silicone or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), remain in the body indefinitely. According to Dr. Eranki, these fillers can lead to complications such as infections, granulomas, or nodules. “Many people may not fully understand the significance and risks associated with permanent fillers,” he says. Unlike temporary fillers, which integrate well with the surrounding tissues, permanent fillers often migrate over time, distorting facial features and creating an unnatural appearance. As the face naturally changes with age, permanent fillers can result in an unnatural look that doesn’t align with a person’s evolving facial structure. Additionally, removing permanent fillers is no easy task. The procedure often requires invasive surgery, which carries the risk of scarring and further complications. Temporary fillers, particularly those made from hyaluronic acid, offer a safer and more flexible alternative. These fillers can be dissolved if necessary and allow for adjustments over time. These are also adaptable. The brilliance of temporary fillers is their flexibility and reversibility, which provide safer and more adaptable solutions for facial rejuvenation. As cosmetic treatments continue to rise in popularity, experts, including Dr. Eranki, stress the importance of making informed decisions. Consumers are encouraged to consult qualified professionals and thoroughly research the procedures they’re considering. For those seeking facial rejuvenation, the message is clear: temporary fillers offer the safety and flexibility that permanent fillers cannot match, making them a more suitable choice for most of us. By prioritising safer options and understanding the long-term implications, Australians can achieve their aesthetic goals without compromising their health or future appearance.

Health and Wellness

The Hidden Connection Between Stress, Hormones and Your Beauty

By Emma Claire Nutrition, Clinical Nutritionist (BHSc) We all deal with stress, but what if your body is trying to tell you something through your hair, skin, or nails? If you’ve noticed dull hair, unpredictable skin, or brittle nails, your hormones might be sending you a message. The Hormone-Beauty Connection When stress takes over, our bodies release cortisol—the famous stress hormone. While cortisol helps us respond to challenges, too much over time can disrupt our body’s balance. Think of it as an alarm system that stays on too long, leading to wear and tear on your body, including your appearance. How Stress Shows Up on Your Body Your Skin Your skin isn’t just a passive barrier; it’s an active neuro-endocrine organ, meaning it’s linked to both your nervous and hormonal systems. High cortisol levels can weaken your skin’s protective barrier and even impact gut health (yes, they’re connected!). This can lead to: Increased sensitivity Sudden dryness Flare-ups of acne or eczema Cortisol also makes your sebum thicker and increases keratin production, which can clog pores and contribute to breakouts—hence those untimely pimples before big events. Hair Changes Noticing more hair in your brush? Stress hormones can push your hair into its “resting” phase, leading to increased shedding. Additionally, stress diverts nutrients away from non-essential functions like hair growth, making strands weaker and more prone to breakage. Nail Signals Brittle nails or ridges? When stress takes over, your body prioritises essential functions over nail growth. This can leave your nails weak and lacking key nutrients. Your Action Plan for Healthy Skin, Hair & Nails Nourish Your Body Support your beauty from within by prioritising nutrient-rich foods: Wild-caught salmon and sardines – Omega-3s help reduce inflammation and support skin health. Pastured eggs – Packed with biotin, essential for hair growth. Colourful fruits and vegetables – Rich in antioxidants that protect skin cells from stress. High-quality proteins, including organ meats – These are loaded with vitamin A, B12, and zinc, crucial for hair and skin health. (Not a fan of organ meats? Try supplements like Cell Squared Freeze-Dried Beef Liver Capsules.) Support Your Hormones Balancing stress hormones can work wonders for your beauty routine. Try these simple habits: Start your day with five minutes of meditation – even a short practice can lower cortisol. Take deep breathing breaks – Try box breathing (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds). Prioritise 7-9 hours of sleep – Beauty sleep is real! Stay hydrated with filtered water throughout the day. Move your body in ways that feel good—exercise is a natural stress reliever. Listen to Your Body Your hair, skin, and nails can be subtle messengers of your overall health. By managing stress and supporting your hormones, you can help restore balance, not just for beauty, but for your overall well-being.