Way of Being
A blog to inspire healthy, heartfelt living.
What we can Learn from the Great Toilet Paper Frenzy
Is it ironic that the apocalyptic adventure movie 2012 aired on television in the midst of the great toilet paper frenzy? While not the most compelling film, it tells, in a somewhat tongue-in-cheek way, of the end of the world as we know it. In this case, it shares how the Mayans predicted that the Earth’s magnetic poles would flip and the Earth’s crust would explode and destroy civilisation
For the Love of Horses (Has Horse Racing Gone Off Track?)
My love of horses began when I was about seven years old. After visiting a riding school near the Yarra Valley, I devoured books like Anna Sewell’s Black Beauty. Filled with loving empathy, and poignantly told through the voice of Black Beauty himself, I felt an instant connection to the grace, spirit and majesty of horses. At that tender age, I had a greater understanding of how people treated
Greying Gracefully
Aging gracefully is something many of us vow to do. But when it comes to our hair going grey, it can either be an emotional, confusing and confronting process or a wholehearted acceptance of who we have become. It’s an immensely personal choice and experience. It can also happen at any stage of life. Having officially made the transition from mid-to-late 40s, I’m fortunate to have a head of thick,
Living with Fire
I’m often asked by novice tree-changers about the pros and cons of living in a natural environment. I don’t see them as either. I see it as learning to live in tune with nature, the land and therefore each other. And that’s ongoing. Nature, after all, will teach you something new every day. However, the one key thing that is obviously raised about living in semi-rural to rural areas, such
Will Changing the Date of Australia Day Change Anything?
Australia Day has been and gone. However, the ongoing debate about whether January 26 should or shouldn’t be our national day continues to escalate. Each year, Invasion Day rallies and Survival Day events gather more and more momentum. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people want to be seen, heard and respected, and rightfully so. These values are fundamental truths for all of us. Yet, to me, the debate has increased
The Real Value of Trees
During the last few days, I’ve been listening to the roaring drone of chainsaws. To my astonishment, a newish neighbour decided that six magnificent and healthy trees needed removing. While people can choose to do what they want on their property, the main reason for removing these six trees was due to the fear of them falling and potentially causing damage. Sometimes branches or trees do fall down, especially if
When Another Dog Attacks Your Dog
There’s nothing pleasant about another dog suddenly attacking your dog, let alone a person or any other animal. Aside from being incredibly violent, it can be terrifying and traumatising. As we know, sometimes dog attacks can leave serious injury or end up being fatal. Although I’ve always been fortunate to have some friendly, well-behaved animals throughout my life, in the last 12 months my medium-sized dog, Ella, has been attacked by
Let’s Talk About the Cervix
Cervix. It isn’t a word that usually comes up in everyday conversation. But why is it difficult to talk about? Is it because we don’t have enough awareness? Or is it an uncomfy subject? I’d say it’s both. If you want to get right down to it, the cervix is a natural part of the female reproductive system. More specifically, it’s the neck that connects the uterus and vagina, or
Are Handkerchiefs More Useful Than we Think?
For as long as I can remember, my parents, grandparents and other extended family members always had and used handkerchiefs. It was the done thing. But for some, the notion of a handkerchief is old-fashioned, unsanitary and socially unacceptable. Until about eight years ago, I would have agreed. My childhood recollections — or possibly trauma, depending on your interpretation — of people using handkerchiefs usually included one of two things.
Why I Never Get Flu Shots
It’s the beginning of another icy cold winter in the southern hemisphere. And in the wake of the flu vaccine being rationed in Australia, am I concerned? Not at all. Despite the increased demand, especially since we experienced one of the worst outbreaks of flu in 2017, and influenza, obviously, having the potential to turn deadly, I will continue to take precautions naturally — with homeopathy. Although flu strains are
Drinking in Tea Meditation
As a non-coffee drinker living in a country that has a robust coffee culture, I often find it amusing how the odd eyebrow is raised when I ask for a cup of tea. I’ve always preferred to sip on a variety of refreshing, full-bodied, non-caffeinated herbal teas. Drinking tea is like a daily ritual for me, be it morning, mid-arvo and night. What’s more, I can choose what type of
One Size Sock Doesn’t Fit All
Everybody has a story. And everybody has their own unique expression of life. We come in many shapes, sizes and colours, and have different backgrounds, dietary requirements, opinions, learning abilities, and so on. Yet how is it that some producers and some suppliers, including those who have ethical and eco-friendly business practices, seem to be adopting the one-size-fits-all approach? Aren’t we meant to be providing for the needs of the
What it Means to Have a Conscious Conversation
I’ve never been one for small talk. I don’t engage in gossip. And I’ve never been a fan of people finger-pointing. Does that make me a saint? No, it doesn’t. But as a writer and a human being who values integrity, connection and meaningful conversation, clear and effective communication (with a healthy dose of inquisitiveness) forms an integral part of my life. At the very least, I like to express
Don’t Fence Me In
As someone who appreciates nature, a sense of space and community, living in the Dandenong Ranges fulfils these elements. It’s what I like to call ‘soultitude’. Growing up in the area, I was blessed to free range in my neighbourhood. The bush blocks were huge, some like a mini national park, and the roads generally peaceful. Throughout the ’70s and during the early ’80s, my family and I pretty much
What I Did in 2017
Although time ‘appears’ to go faster as we advance in years, 2017 ‘seemed’ to go at top speed with added intensity. For me, it was a year of challenging transitions and adjustments, especially mentally and emotionally. Like persistent stains that needed removing once and for all, the process often left me feeling anxious and depleted. It was as if I was merely surviving. At the same time, it was an
Why I Still Handwrite Christmas Cards
For many, handwriting Christmas cards seems outdated, time-consuming, and even wasteful. After all, we live in a digital age where it’s quicker, more convenient and economical to send one electronic message, be it via the likes of Facebook, Messenger or SMS. While the well-wishes may be shared with good intentions, I still like to handwrite Christmas cards. Why? Because putting pen to paper, so to speak, allows for more
How to Tune In to Your Cervix Naturally
Recently, I wrote about the need to discuss the cervix in a healthier and more loving way in my “Let’s Talk About The Cervix” blog post, especially after having cervical dysplasia a few years ago. It was a wake-up call to really tune in to my cervix with conscious awareness and reconnect with myself. After all, the cervix is a source of ecstasy. She’s a deep, potent wellspring of emotion; an exquisite
The Healing Power of Eye Gazing
In many parts of the world, eye contact is regarded as being genuine and important when communicating with another. We feel seen, accepted and respected. Yet we don’t seem to do it as well or as often as we could. Do we allow technological gadgets and multitasking to distract us? Or are we scared of being seen in the moment? Even when it comes to prolonged eye contact, society often
Let’s Talk About the Cervix
It’s September, and it’s Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month. Add to that how National Cervical Cancer Awareness Week is being held November 13–19, let’s talk about the cervix. After all, the cervix isn’t something that usually comes up in everyday conversation. But why is it difficult to talk about? Is it because we don’t have enough awareness? Or is it an uncomfy subject? I’d say it’s both. If you want to
What’s in a Dream?
When I was about 18, I declared to myself that someday I would love to marry a kindhearted veterinarian who embraced all critters, enjoyed travelling and appreciated nature. At that stage of my life, I was competing with horses, had gorgeous pooches and worked at an equine hospital. It seemed like a natural request to put out to the universe. It wasn’t long after this my then Thoroughbred filly, Elle,
What we can Learn from the Great Toilet Paper Frenzy
Is it ironic that the apocalyptic adventure movie 2012 aired on television in the midst of the great toilet paper frenzy? While not the most compelling film, it tells, in a somewhat tongue-in-cheek way, of the end of the world as we know it. In this case, it shares how the Mayans predicted that the Earth’s magnetic poles would flip and the Earth’s crust would explode and destroy civilisation
For the Love of Horses (Has Horse Racing Gone Off Track?)
My love of horses began when I was about seven years old. After visiting a riding school near the Yarra Valley, I devoured books like Anna Sewell’s Black Beauty. Filled with loving empathy, and poignantly told through the voice of Black Beauty himself, I felt an instant connection to the grace, spirit and majesty of horses. At that tender age, I had a greater understanding of how people treated
Greying Gracefully
Aging gracefully is something many of us vow to do. But when it comes to our hair going grey, it can either be an emotional, confusing and confronting process or a wholehearted acceptance of who we have become. It’s an immensely personal choice and experience. It can also happen at any stage of life. Having officially made the transition from mid-to-late 40s, I’m fortunate to have a head of thick,
Living with Fire
I’m often asked by novice tree-changers about the pros and cons of living in a natural environment. I don’t see them as either. I see it as learning to live in tune with nature, the land and therefore each other. And that’s ongoing. Nature, after all, will teach you something new every day. However, the one key thing that is obviously raised about living in semi-rural to rural areas, such
Will Changing the Date of Australia Day Change Anything?
Australia Day has been and gone. However, the ongoing debate about whether January 26 should or shouldn’t be our national day continues to escalate. Each year, Invasion Day rallies and Survival Day events gather more and more momentum. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people want to be seen, heard and respected, and rightfully so. These values are fundamental truths for all of us. Yet, to me, the debate has increased
The Real Value of Trees
During the last few days, I’ve been listening to the roaring drone of chainsaws. To my astonishment, a newish neighbour decided that six magnificent and healthy trees needed removing. While people can choose to do what they want on their property, the main reason for removing these six trees was due to the fear of them falling and potentially causing damage. Sometimes branches or trees do fall down, especially if
When Another Dog Attacks Your Dog
There’s nothing pleasant about another dog suddenly attacking your dog, let alone a person or any other animal. Aside from being incredibly violent, it can be terrifying and traumatising. As we know, sometimes dog attacks can leave serious injury or end up being fatal. Although I’ve always been fortunate to have some friendly, well-behaved animals throughout my life, in the last 12 months my medium-sized dog, Ella, has been attacked by
Let’s Talk About the Cervix
Cervix. It isn’t a word that usually comes up in everyday conversation. But why is it difficult to talk about? Is it because we don’t have enough awareness? Or is it an uncomfy subject? I’d say it’s both. If you want to get right down to it, the cervix is a natural part of the female reproductive system. More specifically, it’s the neck that connects the uterus and vagina, or
Are Handkerchiefs More Useful Than we Think?
For as long as I can remember, my parents, grandparents and other extended family members always had and used handkerchiefs. It was the done thing. But for some, the notion of a handkerchief is old-fashioned, unsanitary and socially unacceptable. Until about eight years ago, I would have agreed. My childhood recollections — or possibly trauma, depending on your interpretation — of people using handkerchiefs usually included one of two things.
Why I Never Get Flu Shots
It’s the beginning of another icy cold winter in the southern hemisphere. And in the wake of the flu vaccine being rationed in Australia, am I concerned? Not at all. Despite the increased demand, especially since we experienced one of the worst outbreaks of flu in 2017, and influenza, obviously, having the potential to turn deadly, I will continue to take precautions naturally — with homeopathy. Although flu strains are
Drinking in Tea Meditation
As a non-coffee drinker living in a country that has a robust coffee culture, I often find it amusing how the odd eyebrow is raised when I ask for a cup of tea. I’ve always preferred to sip on a variety of refreshing, full-bodied, non-caffeinated herbal teas. Drinking tea is like a daily ritual for me, be it morning, mid-arvo and night. What’s more, I can choose what type of
One Size Sock Doesn’t Fit All
Everybody has a story. And everybody has their own unique expression of life. We come in many shapes, sizes and colours, and have different backgrounds, dietary requirements, opinions, learning abilities, and so on. Yet how is it that some producers and some suppliers, including those who have ethical and eco-friendly business practices, seem to be adopting the one-size-fits-all approach? Aren’t we meant to be providing for the needs of the
What it Means to Have a Conscious Conversation
I’ve never been one for small talk. I don’t engage in gossip. And I’ve never been a fan of people finger-pointing. Does that make me a saint? No, it doesn’t. But as a writer and a human being who values integrity, connection and meaningful conversation, clear and effective communication (with a healthy dose of inquisitiveness) forms an integral part of my life. At the very least, I like to express
Don’t Fence Me In
As someone who appreciates nature, a sense of space and community, living in the Dandenong Ranges fulfils these elements. It’s what I like to call ‘soultitude’. Growing up in the area, I was blessed to free range in my neighbourhood. The bush blocks were huge, some like a mini national park, and the roads generally peaceful. Throughout the ’70s and during the early ’80s, my family and I pretty much
What I Did in 2017
Although time ‘appears’ to go faster as we advance in years, 2017 ‘seemed’ to go at top speed with added intensity. For me, it was a year of challenging transitions and adjustments, especially mentally and emotionally. Like persistent stains that needed removing once and for all, the process often left me feeling anxious and depleted. It was as if I was merely surviving. At the same time, it was an
Why I Still Handwrite Christmas Cards
For many, handwriting Christmas cards seems outdated, time-consuming, and even wasteful. After all, we live in a digital age where it’s quicker, more convenient and economical to send one electronic message, be it via the likes of Facebook, Messenger or SMS. While the well-wishes may be shared with good intentions, I still like to handwrite Christmas cards. Why? Because putting pen to paper, so to speak, allows for more
How to Tune In to Your Cervix Naturally
Recently, I wrote about the need to discuss the cervix in a healthier and more loving way in my “Let’s Talk About The Cervix” blog post, especially after having cervical dysplasia a few years ago. It was a wake-up call to really tune in to my cervix with conscious awareness and reconnect with myself. After all, the cervix is a source of ecstasy. She’s a deep, potent wellspring of emotion; an exquisite
The Healing Power of Eye Gazing
In many parts of the world, eye contact is regarded as being genuine and important when communicating with another. We feel seen, accepted and respected. Yet we don’t seem to do it as well or as often as we could. Do we allow technological gadgets and multitasking to distract us? Or are we scared of being seen in the moment? Even when it comes to prolonged eye contact, society often
Let’s Talk About the Cervix
It’s September, and it’s Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month. Add to that how National Cervical Cancer Awareness Week is being held November 13–19, let’s talk about the cervix. After all, the cervix isn’t something that usually comes up in everyday conversation. But why is it difficult to talk about? Is it because we don’t have enough awareness? Or is it an uncomfy subject? I’d say it’s both. If you want to
What’s in a Dream?
When I was about 18, I declared to myself that someday I would love to marry a kindhearted veterinarian who embraced all critters, enjoyed travelling and appreciated nature. At that stage of my life, I was competing with horses, had gorgeous pooches and worked at an equine hospital. It seemed like a natural request to put out to the universe. It wasn’t long after this my then Thoroughbred filly, Elle,