Spring 2017
02 SPA & WELLNESS INTERNATIONAL
BIZARRE SPAS
MUST-DO DESTINATION
DNA-BASED DIETS
The ‘old’ treatments making a comeback.
Get your passport out. So much to see & do!
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peakdna.com 4 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
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Spring 2017
02 SPA & WELLNESS
INTERNATIONAL
Cover La Maison Marrakech, a creative hideaway to be shared with all travel souls, design addicts & food lovers. Book through Airbnb.
Managing Editor Kris Abbey
HEY! DON’T FORGET TO FOLLOW US:
Partnerships & Advertising Dan Morrison Creative Director Kris Abbey Design Support Tricia Mackay Photography Unsplash Enquiries Advertising: dan@spaandwellnessinternational.com Editorial: kris@spaandwellnessinternational.com
Published and distributed by Commotion Pty Ltd PO Box 123 Freshwater NSW 2096 Australia
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@spagirlkris
Contributors Sarah Aitken, Kelsie Barley, Simon Bennett, Gaye Gerrard, Richard Kan, Kate Kelsall, Steve Mills, Neil Owen, Angela Raspass, Tania Wells & Lara Zilibowitz. Printing Rawson Print Co.
All rights reserved copyright Š 2017 Reproduction of any of the Spa & Wellness International magazine material without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. The acceptance of advertising does not necessarily imply endorsement of services or products. Cover price is recommended price only.
WORDS FROM THE EDITOR
When I go on a holiday, I enjoy a mix of swaying in a hammock with a good read, and getting the body moving with a big dose of exercise. As a family, we enjoy getaways to places that offer outdoor adventures and plenty of activity. Less pool and cocktails, more surf and bike trails. And if it’s a family holiday with my two sisters and their families (as is often the case), we instantly have the numbers for any game that involves imagination, coordination and competitive spirit (of which we have plenty). Nine kids, six adults and often a few hangers-on, our morning jogs can look like the start of a local fun run. We enjoy being healthy on holidays, but more importantly doing good things as a family. Our definition of a holiday is returning home better than we left, whether that’s more relaxed, fitter, stronger, wiser or more experienced for having tried something new. We were wellness travellers way before it was a ‘thing’. If you like the thought of being a wellness traveller, a healthy holiday-goer or simply looking for a getaway that offers new experiences, you’ve come to the right place. I’m sure you’ll find plenty of inspiration in the following pages. Kris Abbey Managing Editor
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OUR CONTRIBUTORS
SARAH AITKEN This free spirit currently lives and studies in Fiji. First thing packed: her journal. “I use it for everything, from names and numbers to memories of moments in the day. I love reading back over them and laughing/crying at all the good times.’
DR VINCENT Passionate about health, food and finding ways to fight stress, Dr Vincent shares his latest discoveries.
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KELSIE BARLEY This sharp-eye always travels with her camera to capture beautiful moments. Her pictures are worth so much more than a thousand words.
KRISTINA IOANNOU Kristina is your go-to gal for all things natural beauty. As an exbeauty editor, she has seen and tried it all. And of course, she’s a natural beauty herself,
LU K E H I N ES Luke walks the talk on healthy living. You won’t find a leaner, meaner cook in the kitchen.
NEIL OWEN If ever there was a Spa Bloke, Neil is it! He eats, sleeps and breathes Spa and helps create some of the best Spa concepts around the globe.
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CONTENTS SPRING 2017 ESCAPE
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01. INCREDIBLE INDIA If you’re looking for a destination that feeds every sense - from sights and smells to everything in between - India is it!
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0 2 . I N D I A’ S G I F T Aside from all the colour and spiritual history, India’s true gift to the world is yoga.
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0 3 . T H R E E D AY S T O W E L L N E S S A lot can happen in days. If you want a family holiday with a dose of wellness, try the Santai Retreat at Cabarita Beach, just north of Byron Bay.
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0 4 . PAC I F I C R ES O RT S A I T U K A I This South Pacific retreat is a multi-award winning, truly unforgettable paradise escape.
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0 5 . B A C K T O N AT U R E When you think Fiji, you think beautiful, white sandy beaches, palm trees and piña coladas by the pool, But in my opinion, Fiji is so much more!
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0 6 . B I Z A R R E S P A T R E AT M E N T S Spas must always be one step ahead to cater for discerning millennials who demand treatments that give them a Spa experience like no other.
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0 7. A L L S A I N T S S K I N C L I N I C Sydney is finally home to a stunning new Medi-Spa, offering state-of-the-art therapies in a home that has been lovingly restored.
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COCONUTS BEACH CLUB RESORT & SPA FIND WELLNESS AT THIS AUTHENTIC SAMOAN RESORT
Coconuts Beach Club Resort & Spa is pleased to announce the opening of their new Wellness Centre. The centre offers hope and relief to those suffering various health issues that may be considered hopeless by conventional medicine. It is located within the grounds of Coconuts Beach Club Resort and Spa, a boutique resort in the midst of a traditional Samoan village on approximately 8 acres of land that the locals regard as a magical place with spiritual significance. If you want a higher quality of life through Alila Seminyak Bali better health, we can help you with our qualified therapists and beautiful, relaxing resort. For more information visit cbcsamoa.com/wellness. 12 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
WELLNESS
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01. DESIGNER GENES Knowing your genetic predisposition through a simple DNA test can be the magic tool in reaching Peak Health..
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02. SYMPTOMS OF STRESS Sometimes you may be suffering from stress and not even know. What’s the best supplement to help reduce the negative effects?
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03. SAUNA: THE NAKED TRUTH More than just a sweat box. We go back in time to its origins and discover the many benefits.
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04. MY PERSONAL JOURNEY TO FITNESS Sloane Davis shares her remarkable transformation from fat to fit. And has 5 handy tips to help you.
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0 5 . B L U E M AT C H A You’ve seen it pop up in pretty food pictures on your Instagram feed, but what is it really?
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0 6 . H E A LT H Y M A D E E A S Y Clean-eating guru Luke Hines shares his Healthy Made Easy quick breakfast recipes. So delicious!
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0 7. S U M M E R S C E N T Five hot scents for this summer that will enance your mood.
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SPA NEWS
Eight WELLNESS TRENDS FOR 2017 - Experts from the Global Wellness Summit identify future directions for the $3.7 trillion wellness industry, from a new focus on ‘silence’ and a bold reinvention of sauna-going to wellness impacting both architecture and beauty. The trends are:
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SAUNA REINVENTED From theatrical Sauna Aufguss events to jaw-dropping amphitheatre saunas… sweating will get more spectacular and social in years ahead.
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WELLNESS ARCHITECTURE From living buildings that grow their own energy to responsive architecture that tailors indoor health experiences to dawn-simulating lighting that eases you into your day. Everything built is getting re-engineered, from indoor air quality to sleep and acoustics.
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SILENCE From silent Spas to wellness monasteries and ‘down-time abbeys’. Silence is Godly. Shhh!
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ART & CREATIVITY TAKE CENTRE STAGE Yes, adult colouring books, but well beyond, from classical concerts to intensive painting classes at hotels, wellness retreats, Spas and studios.
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WELLNESS REMAKES BEAUTY Borders between beauty and wellness blur: the $999 billion beauty sector gets a shake-up thanks to seismic shifts in the way we aspire to, and perceive, true beauty.
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THE FUTURE IS MENTAL WELLNESS Mental wellness will be the biggest future trend, period! From wellness destinations and Spas bringing in neuroscientists and psychotherapists, to meditation becoming seriously mainstream. From part-mind, part-body workout brands to apps that track your mental state. EMBRACING THE C-WORD Wellness industry stops turning away cancer sufferers, instead providing comfort, solace and positive recovery paths. BEYOND THE ELITE ‘GHETTOS’ OF WELLNESS In a world where rising inequality and a sense of unfairness is leading to a global, populist backlash. a wellness industry tha has become narrowly associated with wealthy elites (the $300 yoga pants and treatments) must, and will, change.
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SUNRISE AT GWINGANNA LIFESTYLE RETREAT
H A P P Y B I R T H D AY
SOFITEL SYDNEY DARLING HARBOUR, SYDNEY’S NEWEST FIVE-STAR PROPERTY, HAS OPENED! Hotel owner Dr Jerry Schwartz, prior to opening, gave rooms to major charities to auction off as prizes. As a result, AUD$508,000 was raised by these charities to support areas including medical research, disadvantaged children and families, education, Indigenous development and homelessness. Such a great initiative to match the grandeur of this magnificent new hotel. And more good news - plans are in place for a Spa opening in 2018. www.sofitel.com/gb/australia
Since it opened in 1982, the KUROTEL LONGEVITY CENTRE AND SPA (Brazil) has been a worldwide reference for healthy living. With a focus on helping people to live longer, healthier and happier lives, this luxury medical Spa resort promotes a globally-integrated approach to health through lifechanging experiences. Well ahead of its time, it has stood the test of time, turning 35 this year! www.kurotel.com.br
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SPA NEWS
THANYAPURA HEALTH & SPORTS RESORT, THAILAND
G O O N A H O L I D AY T O G E T F I T N O T FAT ! It would be totally understandable if you
YOGA IN THE GARDEN
mistook T H A N YA P U R A Health & Sports Resort for an exclusive sporting academy. The resort in Thailand’s Phuket is renowned for its acclaimed sports training complex frequented by athletes and active families, With a variety of Health & Wellness concepts, guests enjoy a healthy holiday through customised programs designed to optimise wellbeing, making this the ultimate destination for a life-changing, wellness getaway. “Guests come to Thanyapura to change their lifestyles. Good nutrition is the key to a healthy body. Our multidisciplinary team works with the guests on customised exercise and nutrition plans to achieve their wellness goals and be happy,” says Dr Narinthorn Surasinthon, Medical Director.
www.thanyapura.com
SPA TREATMENTS TOO
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OBESITY IS NOW A WORLDWIDE EPIDEMIC WHICH ABSORBS A VAST AMOUNT OF OUR HEALTHCARE RESOURCES. THE ANNUAL MEDICAL COSTS OF TREATING THE CONSEQUENCES OF OBESITY, SUCH AS DIABETES AND HEART DISEASE, IS AS BIG A KILLER AS THE DISEASE ITSELF! CONTINUAL SURVEILLANCE BY WORLD OBESITY HAS SHOWN HOW OBESITY PREVALENCE HAS RISEN DRAMATICALLY OVER THE PAST 10 YEARS. IT IS ESTIMATED 177 MILLION ADULTS WITH SEVERE OBESITY WILL NEED TREATMENT BY 2025, SO WE NEED TO ACT NOW TO REDUCE THIS BURDEN ON NATIONAL ECONOMIES. TIME TO GET OFF YOUR BUTT AND SHAKE IT!
YOGA IN THE GARDEN
The World’s Best Kept Secret
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PACIFIC RESORT HOTEL GROUP - Cook Islands leading boutique resort operator www.pacificresort.com
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EXPERIENCE: INDIA
01 INCREDIBLE INDIA
WORDS: KRIS ABBEY
“There are some parts of the world that, once visited, get into your heart and won’t go. For me, India is such a place. When I first visited, I was stunned by the richness of the land, its lush beauty and exotic architecture, its ability to overload your senses with the pure, concentrated intensity of its colours, smells, tastes and sounds... I’d been seeing the world in black and white, but when brought face-to-face with India, experienced everything re-rendered in brilliant technicoloor.”
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IT IS BUSY, BUT STILL. IT IS CRAZY IN A CALM WAY.
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IT IS A CONSTANT CACOPHONY OF BEEPING HORNS, HIGH-SPEED RICKSHAWS AND THE HUBBUB OF PEOPLE. A MELANGE OF SMELLS - OF INCENSE, SPICES AND DECOMPOSING ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING - ALL AMPLIFIED BY THE HEAT. THE CONSTANT HEAT. EVERY SENSE IS STIMULATED BEYOND WHAT YOU THOUGHT CAPABLE.
Like an ethnic sari, India entwines the varied shades of its culture with the vibrant embroidery of its urban centres. Its stunning landscape stretches from towering Himalayan peaks in the north to the warm tropical coastline of the south. From the arid Thar Desert in the west to dense forests in the east. India is considered the most multidimensional country in the world. It is everything, and more, all at once. It’s a sensory explosion of sights, sounds, colour and smell. This vast territory is home to more than one billion people and its eclectic mix of different cultures. For those looking for an enriching spiritual experience, India presents a wide variety of sacred sites and inspiring philosophies. Meanwhile, fans of outdoor activities can rejoice in the sparkling waters of the southern beaches framed by palm trees, or mount elephants and spot big cats in the jungle, or simply breathe the scent of wildflowers during a rejuvenating walk through the forest.
DELHI It is highly unlikely that your first impression of Delhi will be positive, especially if it’s also your first impression of India! You will notice the pollution, over-population, smells and noises long before the real charms of the city. But it’s worth persevering, as the history of Delhi is fascinating and omnipresent: the bazaars of Paharganj are a wonderful introduction to the Bohemian India, the architecture of the monuments of the city is most impressive and the food is delicious. Delhi is also the capital and a major business hub of India. In a word, overwhelming!
brilliance. Agra preserves a fort, beautiful palaces, mausoleums and tombs of the Mongol era that lie in the shadow of the Taj Mahal - so breathtaking and majestic that no expression of love could outshine it. Moving around the city is easy with rickshaws and taxis, however one of the most fun ways to see the city is in a ‘tonga’, a covered, horse-drawn carriage. Even with the Taj Mahal, Agra is best as a day-trip from Delhi. Hire a car (with driver) for about $90 and you can be taken there and back in a day. Stop at some of the little villages along the way, or cheer on a game of cricket in the rice and tea fields.
LUCKNOW
AGRA A three-hour drive from Delhi, Agra is situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh and was the centre of the cultural and imperial Mughal kingdom. A visit to India is never complete without visiting the Taj Mahal, the icon of the country and a symbol of architectural
Further east from Agra is Lucknow, the city of Nawabs (high-status Mughal noblemen). This city is located in the historic region known as Awadh and has always had a multicultural character. Lucknow is located in the heart of the great Ganges plain and is surrounded by small rural villages. 23
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When it comes to Indian accommodation, you can spend as little or as much as you like. Cheap accommodation is generally OK, but mid-range is where you get the best value for money. If you can stretch your budget, I highly recommend the luxurious five-star hotels of the Indian-owned Taj group. They are world class and their Spas are 5-star! www.tajhotels.com
The beautiful gardens, poetry, music and exquisite cuisine have always attracted lovers of Indian history and culture to Lucknow. The city is also known as ‘the golden city of the East’ or ‘the Constantinople of India’. It is considered to have a very cultured population and is a centre of Hindi and Urdu literature.
BENGALURU Commonly called the ‘garden city of India’, Bengaluru is famous for public parks, bustling bazaars, colonial architecture and historic museums. Bengaluru, which many still know as Bangalore, is a city where tradition merges with modernity. The legacy of Bengaluru is reflected in the architecture of its buildings. Admire the palace of Bengaluru, a Tudor-style building built in 1887, and the opulent temple of ISKCON—the reflection of Hare Krishna movement. The nickname ‘garden city’ is due to the numerous natural spaces, such as the famous Cubbon Park (the home of cricket). Lalbagh’s botanical gardens display one of the largest collections of tropical plants in India. A few hours’ drive from Bengaluru will take you to Bannerghatta National Park, where you can go on safari to spot a range of wildlife including deer, bison and bears. For me, Bangaluru is a must-visit city. More so than Delhi. It gives you a big taste of India in one place, while the large gardens give a sense of space (rare in this country). All the major tech companies have a presence here, contributing to the comopolitan CBD, and it is referred to as India’s Silicon Valley, adding to the juxtaposition of India - so old and traditional, yet creators of the most futuristic computer concepts. Bangaluru is also the home of the only Yoga Hospitals and Research Centres in the world, Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana (S-VYASA). Although I was lucky enough to visit for the day, most people who visit are patients suffering any number of lifestyle-related illnesses, from cancer and drug addiction to stress, diet and sleep disorders. Here yoga, meditation, Ayurveda and an organic, vegetarian diet is used to treat non-communicable diseases. The positive effects of yoga are well known and the results of the S-VYASA program have been documented in over 250 research papers published in leading peer-reviewed national and international journals. Lab coats are replaced with yoga wear, and the food is prepared fresh for each meal with ingredients sourced from the large organic gardens. Western hospitals could certainly learn a lot from this ‘food as medicine’ approach to healing! India has to be visited for you to fully appreciate its magic. You will learn the art of flexibility, and not just by doing yoga! It’s a place where nothing goes to plan. Expect the unexpected. And that just might be getting caught by her spell and falling in love with her chaos, crowds and roads with cows. 25
EXPERIENCE: INDIA
02 I N D I A’ S G I F T ONE THING THAT IS COMMON TO ALL CITIES OF INDIA IS THEIR ROOTS IN THE COUNTRY’S ANCIENT CULTURE, PHILOSOPHY AND SPIRITUALITY, BE IT THE ENTHUSIASTIC CELEBRATION OF FESTIVALS OR THE CALMING SENSATION OF YOGA. MODERNITY AND TRADITION CO-EXIST BEAUTIFULLY IN INDIA. ALONG WITH THE HISTORICAL MARVELS IN LANGUAGE, SCIENCE AND ASTRONOMY, INDIA’S MOST VALUED GIFTS TO THE WORLD MUST ALSO INCLUDE YOGA. THE PRACTICE OF YOGA HAS SPREAD LIKE A FOREST FIRE IN THE WESTERN WORLD.
WORDS: KRIS ABBEY
It is estimated that the science and philosophy of yoga is more than 5,000 years old, as evidenced by the Indian holy book of Upanishads. Some practitioners turn to yoga to get into form, while others do it to relax and find a sense of peace and tranquillity amidst their daily lives. The word yoga is derived from Sanskrit, one of the oldest languages in the world, meaning ‘union’ or ‘connection’. To connect the mind and body as one. Yoga is not associated with any religion and can be practised with immense versatility. There is a style of yoga suitable for everyone. Today, it is estimated that yoga is practised by more people in the West than in the East, although techniques and teaching on both sides of the world are very different. For travellers interested in less common and more authentic experiences, I highly recommended you visit India and do a yoga retreat or workshop. Whether your
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goal is losing weight, obtaining a strong, flexible and healthy body, or calming the mind, yoga can help you achieve all of this. However, in the Western world, the practice of yoga is often limited to performing physical postures (asanas). The usefulness of yoga is often perceived only on a physical level, and the benefits gained by seeking union and balance between body, mind and breathing often go unnoticed.
BENEFITS OF YOGA It is said that yoga is a path that leads to a healthier, more spiritual life, promoting a better understanding of both ourselves and our surrounding environment. Scientific, anatomical and psychological studies have shown that yoga can contribute to weight loss, prevent numerous diseases, strengthen and lengthen muscles, give mental clarity, reduce stress and relieve depression. And these are just the benefits that have been studied and proven!
INDIA
Experience INDIA An 11 night exotic experience of some of the best known culturally rich and historically significant highlights of India. Price includes:
• Return flights with Singapore Airlines including taxes
• Domestic flights including taxes • Airport Transfers • Local English-speaking Guide • 4-star hotel accommodation throughout • Breakfast daily, lunch & dinner as per itinerary
• Park & Monument entry fees as per the itinerary
• Full day sightseeing tour of Old & New Delhi • Half day sightseeing tour of Agra, visiting The Taj Mahal & Agra Fort.
• Three game rides into the Ranthambore National Park
• Full day sightseeing tour of Jaipur
including Elephant ride at Amber Fort
• Half day sightseeing tour of Jodhpur • Half day sightseeing tour of Udaipur,
Indian Cooking class with lunch & an evening boat ride on Lake Pichola
per person twin share from
$ 3770*
Discover GOA Explore your options
Why not add an optional 5 night leisurely extension to Goa, India’s most popular beach destination? Goa is famous for it’s endless stretch of white sandy beaches, relaxed atmosphere, popular beach shacks and famous night spots. Price includes:
INDIA
• Bed and breakfast accommodation • Transfers from and to Goa airport.
2018
per person twin share from
$ 1300*
1800 808 491 www.swagmantours.com .au
Level 1, 182 Latrobe Terrace Geelong West VIC 3218 Australia *Conditions apply. Experience India: Mar ’18 departure from $3770 pp; Oct ’18 departure from $4235 pp. Prices are per person on a Twin Share basis. Single supplement available on request. Prices exclude: Visas (obtain online, before departure (cost approx. USD50), tips & Travel Insurance (please contact Swagman for a quote).
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INNER PEACE: We all yearn to visit serene places and connect with nature. However, we often forget that true peace is within us. Even a brief daily yoga session helps you achieve mental stillness and gain inner peace.
TIPS TO GET THE MOST FROM YOUR YOGA PRACTICE
The benefits of yoga manifest on the physical, mental and emotional levels. Here are some top benefits of a regular yoga practice. COMPLETE HEALTH: Ultimate health is not only when you have achieved physical health, but when this is complemented with mental and emotional balance. A core Hindu philosophy is that health is not the mere absence of disease, but the dynamic expression of life in terms of how cheerful, loving and enthusiastic you are. This is where the benefits of yoga are realised, through the combination of asanas (physical postures), pranayamas (vital energy control techniques) and meditation. WEIGHT LOSS: The practice of Surya Namaskar (“Greetings to the sun”) and pranayama Kapalbhati are two of the yoga techniques that assist with weight loss. In addition, with the regular practice of yoga, you tend to become more aware of your body, and therefore more conscious of the food you are eating, which also helps maintain a better weight. TENSION RELIEF: The daily practice of yoga, even if only for a few minutes, releases endorphins. These endorphins are a natural way to help get rid of stress. 28 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
BEFORE THE PRACTICE • Drink plenty of water to cleanse your body and mind. • Practise yoga in a calm and silent atmosphere, with body and mind relaxed. • You should practise yoga on an empty stomach or very light meal. If you can, consume a small amount of honey in warm water to gain instant energy. • You should use a yoga mat or a thick piece of cloth for comfort. • You should have an empty bladder and bowel before yoga practice. • Wear comfortable cotton clothing that breathes and is not restrictive. • Yoga should not be practiced in a state of illness, tiredness or if you’re suffering acute stress. In case of pain, heart problems, chronic diseases or pregnancy, consult your physician. DURING PRACTICE • Ideally, the practice session should begin with an invocation, which creates an environment conducive to relaxation of the mind. • Breathing should always be done through the nostrils, unless the instructor indicates otherwise. • Don’t hold your breath unless a particular exercise requires it. Yoga postures are a balm of energy, flexibility and relief from the stress accumulated in your body and your mind. Yoga works both physically and mentally. Following a regular practice, even untrained people can achieve a flexible, harmonious body and achieve increasingly advanced results.
GLOBAL YOGA DAY From the deck of an aircraft carrier to the sub-zero temperatures of a Himalayan military outpost, tens of thousands of Indians joined Prime Minister Narendra Modi to celebrate the third International Yoga Day. This year I was invited to attend and had I not seen it with my own eyes, I would not have believed that this is the event that stops the nation. In fact, on 21 June, many nations pay hommage to the practise of yoga that began in India over 5,000 years ago. Global Yoga Day is an initiative of India’s PM, ‘Modi’ as he is affectionately referred to by his country, in an effort to grow India’s tourism, but also to promote better health. On the longest day of the year (in the northern hemisphere), mass yoga classes take place all around the globe. In only three years, this event is now celebrated in over 65 countries, reinforcing the fact that yoga is not confined to a minority of countries, but fully embraced worldwide. “Yoga has connected the world with India,” says Modi. “Yoga is about health assurance.” World Yoga Day recognises the place where this now globally popular practise was conceived. Modi wants people to enjoy yoga, but also remember and respect where it began - India. Yoga is estimated to be a US$106 billion industry, and a large piece of that pie should be on India’s plate. Every pore of this country breaths yoga. Maybe that’s their magic secret? 29
ESCAPE: AUSTRALIA
03 3 D AY S T O W E L L N E S S THE SANTAI RETREAT AT CABARITA BEACH IS JUST A 40-MINUTE DRIVE NORTH OF BYRON BAY OR SOUTH FROM THE GOLD COAST. IT’S THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR A RELAXING FAMILY HOLIDAY. OR AS I DISCOVERED... A WELLNESS ESCAPE!
WORDS: KRIS ABBEY
BALANCE /BAL(Ə)NS VERB: TO PUT SOMETHING IN A S T E A DY P O S I T I O N S O T H AT I T D O E S N O T FA L L
I love Cabarita! It offers a peaceful getaway at a stunning beach. You can drive to Byron Bay to quench your ‘earthy’ thirst or head to the Gold Coast to get your fill of theme park thrills. Or you can simply stay put and enjoy everything the Santai Retreat has to offer… which is a lot! Santai means ‘relax’ in Indonesian. From the moment you cross the threshold from your busy outside world, you do just that! Relax. As you enter the open reception area with its soaring vaulted ceilings and views over the lagoon-style pool, you can feel the calm wash over you. The lovely big palms act as a shield to protect you from stress, while the soft trickle of water distracts your mind to the here and now. This boutique, Balinese-inspired property offers spacious self-contained apartments which run either side of the pool. My apartment overlooks the pool, however some apartments face away from the pool. The pool’s clever design provides plenty of private
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swimming nooks and protected lounge areas. There is even a secluded bure for a pool-side Spa treatment or an intimate dining experience. As I mentioned, the rooms are apartment-style. Luxury apartment! With a full kitchen, lounge room and bathroom (with big bath). There is plenty of storage, a comfy king size bed and large balcony with table, chairs and BBQ. When can I move in? Even though you want for nothing, there are hotel services available in case you do. For the next three days, I surrender to the incredible Spa staff and Dr Jean Laing, founder of La Gaia Unedited (LUE). Together they have curated the Wellness Escape for me. It is the perfect balance of organised Spa visits, healthy cuisine and activities. With plenty of free time to explore the local beaches and surrounding hot-spots such as Kingscliff, Casurina and Cabarita. All good for the soul.
THE LAGOON POOL IS THE CALMING CENTRE POINT Santai Retreat with its Bali theme and lush tropical vegetation is built around a group of pools and fountains to offer guests a relaxing ecotourism experience.
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LAGOON-STYLE POOL
FRESH ITALIAN CUISINE AT OSTERIA
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SPACIOUS STUDIO APRTMENT
LAGAIA UNEDITED, A PH BALANCED, SCIENTIFICALLYFORMULATED SKINCARE RANGE DELIVERS POTENT VITAMINS, BOTANICAL EXTRACTS AND GEMS FROM NATURE TO PROVIDE UNSURPASSED RESULTS. WITH THREE DIFFERENT RANGES - PRECIOUS ELEMENTS, PH BASICS AND HYDRACEUTICALS – LAGAIA UNEDITED HAS BEEN SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED TO RESTORE MIND, BODY AND SOUL WITH A SOPHISTICATED AND FOCUSED BEAUTY REGIME.
out, tired and way out of ‘whack’ (a true condition suffered by people juggling too much). Balance is the magic word. Three days of treatments and I was beginning to feel less lopsided.
THE SPA While there are plans in place for a stand-alone, purpose-built Spa, the current Spa is one of the best ‘converted’ Spas I have ever experienced. What was once a large apartment with private courtyard is now a Spa with two treatment rooms. One of the treatment rooms has a free-standing bath, as well as the ‘apartment’ bathroom for wet treatments. There is even a tranquil, outdoor relaxation space. To be honest, I would not have imagined it was a conversion, but Nicolette (the Spa Manager and guru therapist) confessed to the space’s past life. Everything you would want from a Spa is provided. A warm welcoming entrance closing off the outside world, a retail space and waiting longue, large areas for all the exquisite treatments, and a private area to relax. And what I
really loved was the little winding path from the Spa back to the real world. Your transition from peaceful Spa to real world is slow and gentle, so as not to shock you back to reality. But it’s what is beneath the superficial exterior that can’t be seen, only felt, that makes it such a special Spa. The treatments and the way you feel during, and for a long time after, is why this Spa is a true wellness space, despite its humble beginnings. The treatments are a beautiful combination of expert touch and a deeper, subliminal healing. Nothing is ‘autopilot execution’, which is how many Spa treatments can feel. No, these treatments are based on what your body (and mind) need based on the therapist’s intuition and understanding. My body is screaming ‘realign me’ – literally and figuratively. Off the back of a deadline, I was burnt
The treatments are the brainchild of Dr Jean Laing and her scientific team of skin and health experts. These treatments are designed to complement and amplify the benefits of her skincare range. And you know these treatments are the real deal. You feel it… in three days or less! Like the treatments, LaGaia Unedited is about balance. Dr Jean has spent the last 25 years researching and understanding our skin’s pH and at what point it is in, or out of, balance. Her expertise as a US-trained chiropractor and interest in our body’s largest organ, the skin, has been the perfect marriage of her knowledge to create LUE to wrap around her healing treatments. Jean’s daughter, Kristen (whose skin is testament to her mum’s genes and products) is now also involved with the range. She brings her own passion for health and good skin, plus an uber cool factor, from the packaging to the messaging, helping take the range to the next level for the next generation. 33
Having mum and daughter work so closely together on the range, both with enthusiasm and passion, means there’s a big dose of something else in the ingredient mix… Love. I’m wondering if LUE doesn’t mean love in someone’s language – maybe mine! Three days was not long enough at the Santai, yet in that short space of time I certainly felt renewed. Whether you come alone, with your family or with a friend, you can certainly do the wellness escape and enjoy a fantastic holiday. It’s all about balance, right?
GETTING THERE
F LY T O T H E G O L D COAST AND IT’S A SHORT DRIVE TO 9 DIANELLA DRIVE, C A S U A R I N A , N S W. www.santairetreat.com.au
WHAT ELSE TO DO The location of Santai Retreat lends itself to so much activity. The beaches are stunning, there is a fabulous bike track - almost from the Gold Coast to Byron Bay - as well as great walking trails in the nearby hinterland. Hiking, coastal treks, diving, surfing, swimming, sport fishing, horse riding, yoga and SUPing are jut some of the options. And if you’re up for a challenge, definitely climb the nearby Mount Warning - what a view!
WHERE TO EAT As people are being priced out of Byron, or the glitz of the Gold Coast doesn’t quite appeal, this piece of paradise between Kingscliff and Cabarita is becoming popular. As a result, wonderful world-class restaurants are emerging. Not to mention great little cafes serving organic, raw or vegan food and great coffee. Here’s three of my tips: SPICE DEN If you’re staying at Santai Retreat, you should definitely set aside at least
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one night to experience this place, since it’s located right at the retreat overlooking the pool. The modern, Asian-inspired cuisine is fresh, fragrant and oh-so-yum. My advice is to reserve a table as soon as you check in at Santai, as it’s very popular with the locals too. OSTERIA This Italian-inspired meeting place for family and friends has a lively, welcoming atmosphere akin to that enjoyed in Italian villages. The food is authentic, sophisticated and made using fresh organic ingredients from their herb and vegetable gardens. TAVERNA Located on the beachfront of Kingscliff, this Greek-inspired modern restaurant is the perfect spot for a long lunch, quiet dinner or beachside cocktail. The plates are designed to share and the Taverna menu uses only the freshest produce from the local region. Every dish has been carefully constructed to take advantage of the best seasonal and Greek flavours.
W E L L N E S S R E T R E AT ( M E N T S ) The general agenda for my days during the retreat would go something like this: Wake up when ready (no 6am alarm), followed by a healthy breakfast delivered to my room. The mornings were at leisure, so I could enjoy one of the many available activities, or do yoga on-site in the Lanai Lounge. After working up an appetite, a healthy lunch was served either poolside or in the privacy of my room. By mid afternoon, I would wander down to the Spa to enjoy my treatment for the day. After the Spa, my time was my own. Swim, read, snooze or browse the local shops, whatever my heart desired. Dinner at one of the local restaurants, then early to bed so I could wake up and do it all again tomorrow!
THE KEY TO KEEPING YO U R BA L A N C E I S K N OW I N G W H E N YO U H AV E LO S T I T !
DAY 1 LUXE RITUAL A full-body relaxation massage combined with a LUE facial. My skin devoured and drank in the vitamin and mineral-rich products. The products also contain copper, amethyst and rose quartz, which help neutralise the skin’s pH and restore hydration. And if that wasn’t enough, my eyes sparkled after the diamond eye brightening treatment. Great first experience!
DAY 2 PURIFING + LYMPHATIC MASSAGE I love a lymphatic massage. It requires a very special feather-like technique, but the detoxifying effects are incredible. First is the stimulating of the lymphatic and circulatory systems with dry body brushing. Then a clay masque is applied to draw out impurities. While I’m wrapped in a cocoon, a head and neck pressure point massage is performed. I wash off in the shower and underneath lies smooth, renewed skin. A hydrating moisturiser is applied all over my body. An invigorating and cleansing second treatment.
DAY 3 PRESSURE POINT THERAPY COMBINED WITH RELAXING MASSAGE This massage was a highlight. By now I’m starting to feel a bit more aligned, but this treatment puts me right back to centre. Working on pressure points and meridian lines, all were made clear and straight again. This is a results-driven treatment for anyone needing a rebalance. Huge recommendation.
LAST DAY SANTAI SIGNATURE What a treatment to go home on. This luscious, wholesome ritual combines a soothing foot soak, full body exfoliation, a hydrating body and hair masque, mini facial, and head and neck pressure point massage. But wait, there’s more! It finishes off with an aromatic rain-water shower and full body moisturisation, so I leave feeling completely nurtured and renewed from head to toe. Perfect ending.
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FIVE SENSES N AT U R A L & NICE
TASTE Try interesting food combinations to keep your diet interesting and varied!
SEE. SMELL, TOUCH, TASTE AND LISTEN TO SOMETHING NEW. PART OF FEELING GREAT IS FEEDING YOUR SENSES. www.ime-natural-perfume.com.au 36 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
The sense of SMELL via the olfactory nerve is directly linked to the part of the brain that stores our memories and emotions. There is no doubt that smells can affect mood. By changing your mood, you can change your thoughts, and in turn change the way you live your life. Ime Natural Perfumes created by Tonia Walker have a mood-boosting effect and also smell simply divine.
Pull out those old records & LISTEN to some classic tunes. Sing along, dance or simply make the most of the time warp!
Get in TOUCH with your inner child and pull out the craft box. Get handy and feed your creative bent.
SEE & enjoy the smile you put on someone’s face when you give them a home-made gift.
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ESCAPE: SOUTH PACIFIC
04 P A C I F I C R E S O R T A I T U TA K I
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This South Pacific retreat is a multiaward winning, truly unforgettable paradise escape. Getting there is as easy as the island breeze. Just a quick 45-minute flight from the main island of the Cook Islands, where you’ll fall in love with Aitutaki’s world famous lagoon and the warm, friendly people. A private escort will guide you on the 10-minute drive from the airport to this boutique hideaway. On arrival at Aitukai, you’re greeted with kind smiles and the soothing sounds of the South Pacific. The colourful flora and koi ponds that crown the entrance evoke a feeling of tranquility. You’re presented with a fresh coconut Nu to sip on as you enjoy the paradise unfolding in front of your eyes. Looking beyond the reception, you’re hit with a panoramic view of a lagoon the colour of turquoise.
A very welcome and unbelievable sight for tired eyes. The island sun casts a blanket of warmth over the resort, through the lush, tropical foliage, right down to the infinity pool. My sanctuary for the next few days. From here I enjoy gazing at the calm waters surrounding the white sandy beaches, and take regular dips in the soft sea water. At Aitutaki, time passes slowly.
WORDS: MARISSA SMITH
ON THE IDYLLIC ISLAND PARADISE OF AITUTAKI, AN ATOLL OF LUSH TROPICAL FOLIAGE AND WHITE SANDY BEACHES, THE ULTIMATE IN RELAXATION AWAITS.
To truly disconnect from the outside (real) world, you must visit the peaceful Polynesian Tiare Spa. The 5-star facilities offer a personalised service with indigenous healing treatments that will leave you craving more. As you step over the threshold into Tiare Spa, you feel like you’re stepping into a slow motion movie. Once you enter, you simply surrender to the professional team who seem to kow 39
T H E S PA
exactly what your body needs. The Spa is entirely your’s until it’s time to leave, with a renewed feeling and being totally revitalised.
YO U ’ L L B E G R E E T E D IN THE MORNING BY THE SHINING SOUTH PAC I F I C S U N , E N J OY I N G A MORNING COFFEE OR T E A O N Y O U R P R I V AT E SUNDECK. IT IS UP TO YO U H O W YO U WA N T TO E N J OY YO U R PA R A D I S E .
A selection of facials, massages and rejuvenating packages are on offer. The hardest decision you’ll have to make while you’re here is which treatment to have first? The Tiare Spa features Te Tika products. This range of organic products is made from ingredients grown on the Cook Islands. The inspiration for the range is drawn from traditional healing practises that have been used by the locals for centuries. Like all Polynesian treatments, the journey is as rich as the products themselves. You can enjoy your treatment either in the Spa, perched high above the resort looking out to sea, in the privacy of your own room or at a beachfront location of your choice. I chose to be treated in the Spa. After an afternoon at the Spa, enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the Rapae Bay Restaurant. The entertainment includes the most glorious South
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Pacific sunset, painting the skies in hues as bright as the tropical flowers growing around the grounds. Gentle music flows through the air, in tune with the waves lapping the shore. The tables are arranged so it doesn’t matter where you sit, you get to enjoy the view and that sunset! There is an encore performance by the moon as its reflection dances over the lagoon all the way out to sea. A typical day at Pacific Resort Aitutaki can be spent any number of ways. Simply enjoy the resort facilities, laze by the pool or on the beach, or make use of the complimentary snorkelling gear to explore the lagoon. As I discovered, this pristine underwater world is brimming with exotic and colourful sea life. At Pacific Resort Aitutaki, you’ll find ultimate relaxation for your mind, body and soul. Having immersed yourself in the luxury surrounds and enjoyed the warm Cook Islands hospitality, you can be sure that your time at Pacific Resort Aitutaki will leave you relaxed and rejuvenated. www.pacificresort.com/aitutaki
Yasawa Fiji’s first beachfront spa
Yasawa is home to Fiji’s first beachfront spa, just metres from the ocean’s edge on a sweep of soft white sand. The Baravi Spa draws its name from the Fijian word for beach and has been carefully constructed in a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, with an ocean-view massage deck perched over the sands in the open air, fanned by sea breezes. The most incredible spa special awaits you at Yasawa Island Resort… our Ultimate Spa Special includes a 50 minute treatment for every night you book at Yasawa… Stay 7 nights, get 7 spa treatments! Regardless of how many nights you stay, you only pay AUD$320/person. Such incredible value. Choose from massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, wraps, scrubs & waxing.
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Plan your ultimate spa escape today at... to book or for further information www.yasawa.com reservations@yasawa.com.fj phone 679-672-2266 * VAT pp per stay / + TAX. FX rate converted from FJD indicative at time of printing. FX rate to be used as a guide only.
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ESCAPE: FIJI
05 B A C K T O N AT U R E AT K O R O S U N
BEACH CLUB POOL
WORDS: SARAH AITKEN
WHEN YOU THINK FIJI, YOU MAY THINK BEAUTIFUL WHITE SANDY BEACHES, PALM TREES HEAVING WITH COCONUTS, PIÑA COLADAS SIPPED BY RESORT POOLS, AND OF COURSE RUGBY. BUT IN MY OPINION, FIJI IS SO MUCH MORE!
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I happen to be living in this wonderful island country undertaking post-graduate studies in Tourism. I’m no stranger to Fiji. This is my second stint living here. However, like the bulk of holiday-goers, I’ve always come to the main island, Viti Levu, or to the islands off the west coast of Nadi. Safe to say, I was ecstatic to have the opportunity to explore one of the outer islands with my parents, who were visiting for two weeks. Dubbed ‘the hidden paradise of Fiji’, Savusavu is off the well-trodden tourist track. Situated on Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second largest island, Savusavu is a 70-minute flight from Nadi, 40-minute flight from Nausori or 12-hour ferry ride from Suva. The word ‘savu’ means waterfall. Surprisingly, that’s not the origin of the town’s name, but one thing that’s guaranteed is you’ll stumble across some spectacular waterfalls while on the island. Legend has it that Savusavu Bay was once a gigantic volcano. Hot geothermal springs still bubble today. This could be one of the reasons the island exudes an aura of wisdom, holding onto the tales of days gone by. It unapologetically avoids trendy shopping malls, preferring local markets, and allows itself to take time as time should be taken – slow! Our flight to Savusavu is breathtakingly beautiful. Gliding above the island, we get an incredible bird’s-eye view of the mountainous region below, surrounded by the vast and every-hue-of-blue ocean. Initiate relaxation mode!
THE RAINFOREST SPA
On arrival, I’m hit with that island perfume I’ve come to know and love. Tropical frangipani air mixed with earthy nature and salty sunshine. Marvin, our Koro Sun driver, is there to meet us and we take a short scenic drive along lazy Hibiscus Highway (very aptly named) to the resort. Big thumbs up for our arrival. We are greeted by friendly staff with an embracing, trademark Fijian welcome. Bula! We are then treated to a sensational coconut foot scrub and massage, our thirst quenched with a freshly-made local juice. Tick! Next I’m taken to my own private waters-edge villa. I literally have to pick my jaw up off the floor. That view. Totoka dina! Incredibly beautiful! The natural setting is spectacular. The villa even has a partial floor of glass, providing a window to the marine life below. My 43
BANANA LEAF WRAP
own life-sized aquarium! And then, I suspect where I’m going to spend a large part of the next two days, a private deck with stairs leading down into the sea.
THE RAINFOREST SPA The Spa is situated smack in the middle of a tropical rainforest next to a small cascading waterfall (savu, remember?) Talk about tranquillity! There is nothing artificial or man-made creating the ambiance of this Spa. Every sight, sound and smell is 100% thanks to Mother Nature herself. The one-hour Rainforest Massage with star fruit infused virgin coconut oil is divine. Like all good things, time passes
too quickly! Lying there listening to the gently tumbling waterfall is incredibly calming. My mind settles, as I enjoy nature’s soft music – birds talking, trees swaying and the melodic rhythm of the waterfall. My favourite experience is no doubt Koro Sun’s signature treatment, the Banana Leaf Body Wrap. First off, a cooling seaweed and mineral clay is applied to detox my skin and draw out impurities. This is followed by a full body exfoliation with brown sugar soaked in coconut (niu) oil. I could eat this! I’m then wrapped in freshfrom-the-garden giant banana (jaina) leaves. As I lay cocooned in my banana leaf wrap, I’m spoilt with a relaxing scalp massage. I can feel my body
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getting warm and the wrap performing its magic of extracting those nasty impurities. The slight breeze off the waterfall stops me from getting too warm. After the wrap is washed off, the treatment ends with a full body massage using pure coconut oil. My skin feels like new and I smell like a tropical dessert. Delicious.
MUST DO The herbal walk through the property is an absolute must-do! Leba (Lembah), who comes from a long family line of medicinal women and is also famous within the Savusavu community, runs this hour-long tour. Did you know the hibiscus flower leaf, when drunk as a tea, helps soothe an
SOME OF THE MANY WATER ACTIVITIES
upset stomach? Also a great tonic when it’s that time of month for us ladies. More than just a stunning flower!
of the island and it also gave us the chance to fit in a nice, healthy and much-needed dose of exercise.
Wa bosucu, more commonly known as ‘mile-a-minute’ in English, is often thought of as a gardener’s nightmare since the vine takes over the garden at a pace that the name suggests. However, when you crush the heart-shaped leaves, you can apply the juice to all sorts of wounds, cuts and stings. It helps to stop bleeding, acts as a natural antiseptic and even eases pain. Name any problem and Leba will give you a completely natural medicinal remedy.
A five-minute ride down the road led to four bures that had become dislodged from their dock at Koro Sun and washed ashore hundreds of metres away. This was a sobering reminder of the devastation of cyclone Winston, which tore through Fiji in February 2016. We felt even more grateful to be enjoying the island now and it made us appreciate the importance of not getting swept away in the little dramas of our own lives.
CHILL OUT… AND THEN SOME
Thanks to my short stay at Koro Sun, I left feeling rejuvenated in body, while my mind had been cleared and reconnected. I was also equipped with a newfound knowledge of herbal medicine, which has taught me to listen to my body and treat it with kindness.
If relaxing in your bure or lying by the pool all day isn’t for you, there’s an abundance of complimentary activities to enjoy, from kayaking and SUPing to taking a cruise on the bikes or joining a cooking class. One of the most memorable experiences for us was simply grabbing a bike and peddling down Hibiscus Highway. We got to explore some more
DID YOU KNOW THE HIBISCUS FLOWER LEAF, WHEN DRUNK AS A TEA, HELPS SOOTHE AN UPSET STOMACH?
HIGHS: Herbal garden walk LOWS: Having to pre-order your evening meal, which may not always be available come dinner time. TAKING HOME: Simple remedies using local herbs. www.korosunresort.com/
Vinaka vaka levu - thank you very much - to Koro Sun, or as the locals call it, village of sunshine!
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HOT LOCATION: KILLCARE
THE PERFECT W E E K E N D G E TAWAY
SKINCARE WITH SPIRIT Li’tya
LI’TYA SKINCARE www.litya.com/
For more than 40,000 years, Indigenous Australians have held the world’s oldest continuous living tradition of sacred knowledge, known as the DREAMTIME. To me, time out in a Spa offers just that! The Spas at both Pretty Beach House and Bells draw inspiration from the original inhabitants of the local land, the Darkinjung and Guringai people, and offer a selection of treatments that pay hommage to the indigineous past. They use LI’TYA products in their treatments. LI’TYA means ‘of the Earth’ and is a unique range of skin, hair and body products based on Indigenous Australian plants and the principles of modern and Indigenous herbalism, aromatherapy and touch therapy.
KILLCARE is a quiet, secluded suburb on the Bouddi Peninsula on the Central Coast of NSW, Australia. Less than two hours from Sydney, it’s the perfect weekend getaway. The Killcare area is flanked by the Bouddi National Park - loaded with great walking trails - and the area retains a small fishing village atmosphere centred on the Killcare Store. 46 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
BEST PLACES TO S TAY
B E L L S AT K I L L C A R E Luxury + Service + Feels Like Home
BELLS AT KILLCARE www.bellsatkillcare.com.au/
Bells at Killcare has a definite ‘Welcome Home’ feel to it. From the oversized lounges and open fire in the library to the wrap-around verandah enveloping the main homestead. There’s still evidence of its B&B days, however today it’s more luxury retreat, while maintaining all that we love about B&B’s. Cosy, combined with understated sophistication. The Hampstons style and decor definitely gives a relaxed vibe, making it hard to leave.
PRETTY BEACH HOUSE A sophisticated and private guesthouse
BODHI J DAY SPA bodhij.com.au
PRETTY BEACH HOUSE
Pretty Beach House is a luxurious guesthouse with only four private pavilions, keeping your stay quiet and intimate. Surrounded by Mother Nature and with world-class facilities, it’s the epitome of laid-back luxury. Spectacular local surrounds and waterways offer plenty of activities and you’ll be treated like royalty with five-star sevice, complete with chef, Spa and views to die for!
www.prettybeachhouse.com/ 47
Your own piece of
PA R A D I S E SECLUDED REMOTE BOUTIQUE OCEANFRONT RESORT
Only 16 elegantly appointed Fijian Bures and Vales Paradise Taveuni is perfect for a Destination Wedding or a Fiji Honeymoon Romantic beach picnics oceanfront spa treatments snorkelling in crystal clear waters ...lose yourself in the magic that is...Paradise Taveuni Experience ‘Real Fiji!’ Experience Paradise!
Mention this ad when booking to receive a Pure Fiji gift on arrival p: (679) 888 0125 f: (679) 603 0847 m: (679) 999 0125 48 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
info@ParadiseInFiji.com www.ParadiseInFiji.com skype: paradise.taveuni
PO Box 69 Waiyevo,Taveuni. The Fiji Islands
TREATMENT TREND: FACE CRYO
T H I S C O L D T R E AT M E N T IS HOT STUFF
WORDS: KRIS ABBEY
A LC H E M Y C RYOT H E R A P Y C E N T R E , S O U T H YA R R A A LC H E M YC RYO.C O M . AU
Remember when you were a kid and you would jump in a freezing pool in winter on a dare? You were out as quick as you got in, but how good did it feel? Stimulating! Invigorating! Well, there was method to our madness, and this madness has a name. Cryotherapy. It’s the practice of exposing your body to electrically cooled air (below -110°C) for a brief period of time (2 to 3 minutes) to trigger a bunch of physiological responses in the body. Research suggests that Whole Body Cryotherapy can be an effective preventive and proactive measure for inflammatory and age-related diseases of the body and brain.
Now you can enjoy (kind of) the fabulous benefits to your face with the new Cryofacial. This is seriously one of the best results-driven treatments you can have in your lunch break. In 30 minutes, your skin is treated to a cleanse, hot towel exfoliation and an intensive application of Cryotherapy to the face and neck area. A handheld device is used to concentrate electrically cooled air to each area of the face, rapidly lowering the skin surface temperature. At times you feel like you’ve got a brain freeze, like eating ice-cream too quick, but that’s as unpleasant as it gets. To finish, your skin is hydrated and protected with a toner, moisturiser, eye cream and SPF. Face Cryotherapy activates your skin’s natural response to stimulate collagen and reduce inflammation which: • improves blood circulation • evens skin tone and texture • tightens and plumps up the skin • reduces pore size, puffiness, blemishes and acne scars • flushes toxins through the lymphatic system From $119, it is available at Alchemy Cryotherapy, South Yarra, Melbourne. southyarra@alchemycryo.com.au www.alchemycryo.com.au 49
EXPERIENCE: GLOBAL
06 B I Z A R R E S P A T R E AT M E N T S IN TODAY’S EVER-EVOLVING WELLNESS SCENE, IT’S SIMPLY NOT ENOUGH TO BE MAINSTREAM. SPAS MUST CONSTANTLY BE ONE STEP AHEAD TO CATER FOR DISCERNING MILLENNIALS WHO DEMAND TREATMENTS THAT GIVE THEM A SPA EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER.
WORDS: RAYMOND VIOLA
THE-BANJARAN-CRYSTAL-CAVE 50 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
PORTO-ELOUNDA_INFINITY-THALASSOTHERAPY-POOL
CALL OFF THE SEARCH. H E A LT H A N D F I T N E S S T R A V E L , L E A D I N G E X P E R T S I N TA I L O R M A D E W E L L N E S S H O L I D AY S , H A S T R AW L E D T H E G LO B E TO DISCOVER THE MOST UNUSUAL S PA T H E RA P I ES O N O F F E R . F R O M C O L O U R V I B R AT I O N T H E R A P Y I N M A L AY S I A T O P E P P E R L I P O LY S I S I N G R E E C E , T H E S E UNCONVENTIONAL THERAPIES W I L L P R OV I D E YO U W I T H A N EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER.
COLOUR THERAPY IN MALAYSIA BANJARAN REJUVENATION
Set amongst tropical jungle and limestone hills, the Banjaran is an acclaimed 5-star hideaway, famed for its extensive wellness offerings. Here you can experience Chromotherapy, a technique using colours to adjust body vibrations to frequencies that encourage greater health and harmony. By cultivating the frequencies of individual colours to balance and re-shape the energy in our bodies, a greater level of physical and spiritual healing can be achieved. A blue light can promote relaxation and calm, while aiding the recurrence of headaches and nervous tension; pink light eliminates impurities in the blood. Once you’ve discovered your favourite colour, head for the green, with luscious jungle, Japanese gardens and a world-class golf course all nearby. 7 nights at The Banjaran from $5,275 pp or $7,400 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, full board, Spa program and transfers.
GREEN COFFEE SCULPTING IN OMAN ZIGHY BAY SENSE OF DE-STRESS
Discover a whole new world on the Arabian Peninsula of Oman in a secluded bay surrounded by mountains where the world-class Six Senses Spa awaits with a plethora of top-notch Spa offerings. Wake up and smell the green coffee with an energising body treatment focusing on the thighs, waist, tummy and derriere, aimed at breaking down fat cells, stimulating circulation and boosting metabolism. The treatment begins with dry skin brushing, before a massage with the thermogenic, salon-strength chilli and coffee oil for a caffeine hit to rival your morning java. Put your new-found energy to use as you take part in a variety of outdoor activities available nearby, including mountain biking, diving and paragliding.
7 nights at Zighy Bay from $3,715 pp or $5,035 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, breakfasts, de-stress program and transfers.
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THESE UNCONVENTIONAL THERAPIES WILL RAISE THE EYEBROWS OF EVEN T H E Q U I R K I ES T S PA A F I C I O N A D O
PHUKET CLEANSE SWASWARA POOLSIDE
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FUSIAN MAIA INFINITY POOL
AJNA LIGHT THERAPY IN THAILAND PHUKET CLEANSE
For a life-changing wellness holiday, look no further than Phuket Cleanse on the tropical island of Phuket, where you’ll find a range of therapies to detox the body and relax the mind. Anja Light Therapy uses dynamic neural stimulating brainwave technology to induce deep meditative states, a state usually only obtained by meditative experts such as Buddhist monks and Shamans. As you explore the depths of your perception, develop clarity and direction, reduce stress and anxiety, and cultivate a more profound connection with a broader reality. You might even be lucky enough to experience out-of-body and astral projections. Once you’ve come back to earth, hit the ground running with a series of fitness activities, including kickboxing, beach boot camps and TRX training.
FUSIAN MAIA MASSAGE
7 nights at Phuket Cleanse from $2,685 pp or $2,980 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, full board, detox and fitness program, and transfers.
HIMALAYAN HEART STONE MASSAGE IN VIETNAM
NASAL TREATMENT IN INDIA
FUSION MAIA
SWASWARA AYURVEDA
Discover a tropical Spa paradise on Vietnam’s east coast, where you’ll experience a true sense of tranquillity with Fusion Maia and its range of healing therapies. For a massage with a heartfelt difference, try their Himalayan Heart Stone Massage, a gentle, alkalising therapy using warm, heart-shaped salt stones and pomelo oil to promote inner peace. The warmth from the stones will ease tense muscles and soothe aches and pains, while the stones’ positive ions are believed to rid your body of harmful vibrations and clear the air around you. Combine Spa treatments with yoga and meditation for a complete mind, body and soul experience at this tropical hideaway.
Rediscover the simplicity of the earth at this holistic healing retreat nestled in the secluded, unspoilt Indian countryside. The Spa focuses on the power of Ayurveda, with an extensive list of internal and external therapies that are not to be sniffed at. One of which is Nasya, an ancient Ayurvedic practice that encourages nasal administration of medicinal herbs, decoctions and oils, to clear sinus congestion and expel toxins from the head and neck region. The nose is the gateway to the brain, so you’ll breathe easy knowing you’re healing your mind and your body, as you make the most of the holistic cuisine and advanced Ayurvedic treatments at this inspiring health retreat.
5 nights at Fusion Maia from $2,540 pp. Price includes full board, accommodation and transfers.
14 nights at SwaSwara from $4,245 pp or $5,385 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, full board, Ayurveda program and transfers.
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ANANDA-TREATMENT-PREPARATION
ANANDA
RED & BLACK PEPPER LIPOLYSIS IN GREECE
MOXIBUSTION CHINESE THERAPY IN ITALY
PORTO ELOUNDA DETOX
LEFAY SPA
Offering stunning views across Mirabello Bay in the northeastern corner of Crete, Porto Elounda is home to the awardwinning Six Senses Spa, where you can experience a detoxifying treatment like no other. Using the medicinal properties of red and black pepper to stimulate the breakdown of fatty tissue, this dinner table staple delivers a deeply moisturising and refreshing treatment. A combination of warm and cool techniques is used to tone the skin, followed by a firming massage to increase blood and lymph circulation, which stimulates detoxification, to further enhance the treatment’s slimming properties. Finish off with a spirulina wrap and a dip in the thalassotherapy pool to feel thoroughly cleansed, toned and well-seasoned.
Indulge in the East-meets-West wellness philosophy of this luxury Spa retreat overlooking Lake Garda, where you can encounter Moxibustion, a Chinese therapeutic technique meaning ‘burning herb’. This therapy, however, has nothing to do with smoking recreational ‘herbs’; rather, the burning of mugwort - a small, spongey medicinal herb - on various acupuncture points and energy pathways around the body. For those concerned about combustion, after the ‘moxa’ is placed on the body and lit, it is extinguished and removed before it burns the skin, producing a pleasant heating sensation. This treatment strengthens the blood, stimulates energy levels and boosts the results of other therapies. Once you’ve had your pyromania fix, unwind in Lefay’s salt water lake.
7 nights at Porto Elounda from $2,255 pp or $2,840 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, half board, Spa program and transfers.
5 nights at Lefay from $3,600 pp or $4,470 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, full board, Spa program and airport transfers.
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EYE THERAPY IN NEPAL ANANDA REJUVENATION
PORTO-ELOUNDA_BODY-TREATMENTS
Retreat to the mountains and discover the serenity of this wellness sanctuary based at the Himalayan foothills. The Spa at Ananda integrates the traditional Indian systems of Ayurveda with contemporary Western approaches, ensuring a truly unique Spa experience. For a real eye-opener, try Akshi Tarpana, an ayurvedic treatment that involves applying ghee to the eyes to treat eye disorders or simply revive tired eyes. While lying down, a ‘ring’ of flour paste is formed around the eyes, into which medicated ghee is then gently poured, followed by intermittent opening and closing of the eyes. After treating the windows to your soul, turn your attention inwards with a variety of holistic wellness activities, including Yoga, Pranayama and meditation.
7 nights at Ananda from $4,700 pp or $5,810 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, full board, Ayurveda program and transfers.
CHAVUTTI THIRUMAL MASSAGE IN ST LUCIA BODYHOLIDAY DE-STRESS
Find your bliss at this leading St Lucian wellness retreat designed to maximise wellbeing and improve health. While having someone walk all over you may not seem like therapy, this ancient Indian massage technique releases muscular tension, stretches the body and improves circulation and energy flow, and is perfect for those who enjoy deep tissue massage. Also known as Indian rope massage, the therapist holds onto a rope above their head for balance and to adjust pressure, while using their feet to deliver a stronger, deeper massage. Take a step in the right direction to finding calm with a range of holistic therapies and activities, including Reiki, craniosacral therapy and sunset meditation.
7 nights at BodyHoliday from $4,580 pp or $4,615 for single occupancy. Price includes accommodation, all-inclusive, de-stress program and transfers.
For advice, guidance and bookings visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com.au or call 1300 551 353
LEFAY-RESORT-SALT-WATER-LAKE
When booking use the code: HFTSAWI10 FOR A 10% DISCOUNT 55
EXPERIENCE: SYDNEY
07 ALL SAINTS IS H E AV E N LY WORDS: KRIS ABBEY
Established by renowned Dr Joseph Hkeik, All Saints Skin Clinic specialises in advanced skin cosmetic and cutting-edge wellness treatments. A beautiful blend of East & West!
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Situated in a beautiful, stately home in Sydney’s affluent suburb of Double Bay is All Saints Skin Clinic. From the moment you enter, you feel special. This is no ordicary Spa or average cosmetic clinic. It’s the absolute best of both! Dr Joseph Hkeik has been at the forefront of skincare and skin treatments for the past 10 years. While he has been the pioneer of many aesthetic treatments, such as the Liquid Facial, he has also been passionate about holistic health. For a long time, he has wanted to combine the two - and create a Skin Clinic and Wellness Centre. Well, the stars were aligned when a beautiful home in the heart of Double Bay came on the market. A few years before it was up for sale, Joseph would drive by and say to his partner that it would be the ideal property for his skin and wellness centre. Finally, it was on the market and he could start to see his vision come to life.
Yes, he purchased it, then converted it into the most stunning space for cosmetic and wellness treatments. He has to be applauded for the beautiful restoration and for creating a space that highlights the charming character of the home, while putting a contemporary edge to it. This old and new is reflected in every aspect of All Saints Skin Clinic. There is an old-wordly charm, while embracing the latest techniques and treatments. It feels modern and cutting-edge, yet classical and homely all at once. Upon arrival, you’re not met with a nurse, rather a warm embrace by Joseph himself. You’re led to probably the most stylish reception lounge in existence, where you’re served fruit, nuts and refreshments of choice. Every detail has been given attention. And the same can be said for all the treatments too.
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“We understand that addressing the skin’s surface alone has its limitations. That’s why our philosophy is inclusive of superficial and deep skin solutions. At All Saints, our team works with you to provide a multifaceted approach to your skin-health journey. Our prescriptive ‘global holistic’ approach delivers synergistic results through complementary therapies that promote clear, luminous skin and optimal skin health,” says Joseph. With a resident naturopath, massage therapist and wellness coach, this isn’t your typical Skin Clinic. They all work synergistically with you to ensure you receive results, both internally and externally. It isn’t just Botox and fillers and clinical services! “To ‘prepare the canvas’ and optimise the skin’s condition, we take a personalised and holistic strategy
to skin wellbeing. We call this ‘skin fitness’. Skin fitness is the first step on your skin-health journey,” says Joseph. Like any fitness regime, you need a goal and a plan. And you have to take it one step at a time. You also have to consider what you put in your body, as that has a direct impact on your skin. Understanding that time is in short supply, All Saints offers a variety of services under one roof - and a beautiful roof at that! It allows you to escape the outside hustle and relax and surrender within its embracing walls. All Saints Clinc is for those who want to look natural, have their skincare needs met internally, as well as externally, and enjoy Spa services too. The fact that you feel like a precious gem at the end is the result, thanks to Dr Joseph’s unique and beautiful centre.
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Dr Joseph Hkeik is an aesthetic physician with over 10 years experience. He is highly regarded for his experience in delivering naturallooking results. As a lover of art, he uses this appreciation when working on patients’ facial symmetry. www. allsaintsskinclinic.com.au
Elegance of the soul.
Sydney abbeys.com.au 59
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MARKET PLACE
FUNKY DUMBELLS Utterly stylish and totally unique, with interchangeable heads for pumping iron pros and a lighthearted, fun design for those who don’t take life too seriously. Funky Dumbbells are a new type of workout gear and the perfect gift for anyone who loves fun, funky homewares and bright, quirky products. They have just arrived in Australia and will definitely add some character to your workouts. Available from 2kg to 15kg. www.funkydumbbells.com
COMO SHAMBHALA TURNS 20! For 20 years, COMO Shambhala has broken new ground in holistic wellness at the same time as re-establishing more traditional approaches eroded by modern urban culture, including yoga, Ayurvedic medicine and Japanese acupuncture. To celebrate this milestone, they have produced a limited edition tote with luxury goods company Mulberry. The canvas bag, ideal for carrying your wellness essentials, is sold exclusively at COMO Shambhala retail outlets worldwide, and
TOTE BY COMO SHAMBHALA 62 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
SNICKERS CHEESECAKE Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free and Refined Sugar-Free, this healthy treat is as simple as it is tasty. This delectable snack using PICS PEANUT BUTTER is created by talented foodies Sophie Fisher from Coconut and Bliss and Hannah Singleton from Health Synergy. Visit their websites for this recipe, as well as other delicious, nutritious healthy treats loaded with goodness, and which taste insane! www.coconutandbliss.com www.healthsynergy.com.au
HIGH ALTITUDE
A LT I T U D E T R A I N I N G H A S B E E N AROUND FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS. It came into vogue at the 1968 Mexico Olympics (Mexico City sits at 2,240m elevation), where a range of performance anomalies was attributed to the high altitude conditions. Nowadays, altitude training is used by the world’s elite athletes to significantly enhance endurance, power and speed. Training at altitude (a hypoxic environment) is scientifically proven to trigger a range of physiological responses not achievable in normal training programs as the body adapts to cope with the reduction of oxygen taken into the lungs. These physiological adaptions include enhanced fat metabolism, boosted production of red blood cells and capillaries, and a strengthened immune system, and can lead to significant improvements in your performance, health and fitness.
w w w. a l t i t u d e a u s t r a l i a . c o m . a u /
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MARKET PLACE
WWW.LUXEBOTANICS.COM
ORGANIC & AUSSIE Inspired by nature’s most time-honoured, proven ingredients and powered by conscious innovation, both LUXE BOTANICS and AKHAL BEAUTY have powerful philosophies. Through the use of pure, unadulterated ingredients that nourish the skin’s needs on every level, and through a philanthropic brand ethos, they encourange you to make more empowered choices. Not just skincare, but care for the environment and its people too!
WWW.AKHAL.COM
L’ U N I C O L A B O R AT O R Y I N
EDITOR’S PICK
A U S T R A L I A A P P LY T H E W O R L D ’ S L AT E S T B I O L O G I C A L B R E A K T H R O U G H S TO LU X U RY SKINCARE. BLENDING THE MOST C O N C E N T R AT E D I N G R E D I E N T S F R O M N AT U R A L S O U R C E S INTO THE MOST POWERFUL B I O LO G I CA L FO R M U L AS K N OW N T O S C I E N C E , W H I C H I N S TA N T LY ABSORB TO PROTECT AND R E B U I L D YO U R S K I N . YO U R S K I N F E E L S I T F R O M T H E F I R S T A P P L I C AT I O N . L U N I C O L A B O R AT O R Y. C O M . A U
HIGH POTENCY 30% VITAMIN C SERUM HTTP://CLIFFSIDEFUNRUN.COM.AU/ 64 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
SNACK ATTACK It’s often hard to think healthy when you’re starving hungry, or racing out the door to get to work, gym, yoga... insert important activity here. We’ve found three great grab-and-go healthy food options that make a nutritious snack or breakfast, without costing your health or your precious time.
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Brother and sister duo Adam and Sascha Jones established enrGIsustain to combat and address the diabesity epidemic that’s sweeping the globe. With research showing that up to 90% of Type 2 Diabetes cases can be prevented by embracing healthy habits such as eating low GI foods and regular exercise, enrGIsustain provides a convenient, low-GI snack option. $4.95 www.enrGIsustain.com
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TAKE SIMPLE TO SENSATIONAL
www.spoonfedfoods.com.au Unlike most muesli, that contains added sugar to sweeten the taste, MixMyMuesli has 100% no added sugar. Available in convenient ‘racing-out-the-door’ packs in various mixes. From $3.49. www.mixmymuesli.com.au
Created by a single mum raising two kids, Smoothie Bombs are a great breakfast option for everyone, not just the kids. Add a Smoothie Bomb (loaded with healthy superfoods), one cup of liquid of choice and a piece of fruit. Viola! www.thesmoothiebombs.com
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BODY
10 TIPS TO SPRING-CLEAN YO U R B O DY WORDS: KRIS ABBEY There are lots of things you can do to help your body to clean out the toxins. These practices should become part of your lifestyle to help your body detoxify on an ongoing basis.
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Start each day with a shot of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV). I usually put 2 tablespoons of vinegar in a mug of hot water and drink it like a tea, but when I’m on the run, a quick shot is the way to go. It stimulates digestive enzymes. Lemon juice in warm water has a similar effect, and is a great alternative if vinegar is a bit too sour for you. Eat plenty of fibre, including brown rice and organically-grown fresh fruit and vegetables. Beets, radishes, artichokes, cabbage, broccoli, spirulina, chlorella and seaweed are excellent detoxifying foods.
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Cleanse and protect the liver by taking herbs such as dandelion root, burdock and milk thistle, and drinking green or dandelion tea.
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Take Vitamin C, which helps the body produce glutathione, a liver compound that drives away toxins. Foods that have high levels of Vitamin C are citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, berries, capsicum, peas, paw paw and kiwi fruit.
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Drink at least 2 litres of filtered water each day. It’s vitally important to help you maintaining good health. With so many people not drinking enough water, I feel the message isn’t getting through.
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Breathe deeply to allow oxygen to circulate more completely through your system. This is great for assisting with cleaning your blood. Yoga, meditation and other practices that focus on breathing not only clear the body, but the mind too. Absolutely gold if you suffer from stress.
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Cut yourself some slack. Don’t always focus on the negative. Positive affirmations and thoughts (and a big smile) can have a profound affect on your health. More and more research is proving that your mind and body work as one.
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Treat yourself to a regular massage. This not only stimulates your lymphatic system, but is a great way to reduce tension in your muscles. And I shouldn’t call this a treat, it should be a habit!
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Dry-brush your skin every day before you jump in the shower. This removes dead skin cells so toxins can be removed through the skin more efficiently. It’s also very stimulating and great for reducing cellulite.
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Enjoy daily exercise. A good sweat allows your body to eliminate wastes through perspiration, as well as many other benefits to your mind, body and soul. It’s also great for ensuring a good night’s sleep.
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SPAANDWELLNESSINTERNATIONAL.COM
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BODY
01 DESIGNER GENES WORDS: KRIS ABBEY
Scientists have deciphered the entire human genome. By undergoing a simple genomic test, you can now identify your potential susceptibility to certain diseases and conditions. Once your genetic make-up is determined, you can intervene to reduce your predisposed risk to these conditions. You can also devise a more specific diet and exercise program to maximise your health. Welcome to the exciting new era of designer wellness programs! 68 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
Genes are segments of DNA, which is found in all your cells. DNA is essentially a chemical database for your body, telling it how to behave and interact at a cellular level. Within your genetic makeup, there are slight ‘variations’. These variations explain, for example, why some people have blue eyes, while others have brown. These variations don’t cause disease. However, there are specfic genes in your body that contribute to your state of health, your weight and your predisposition to certain lifestyle illnesses, such as Type 11 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. These genes are highly influenced by your exposure to toxins, your diet, the type of exercise you do and your stress levels. These factors are usually modifiable, so if you inherited the variation for cardiovascular disease, for example, you don’t necessarily end up with heart disease unless you put yourself in a situation where external factors are conducive to activating these genes. This situation is referred to as ‘genetic plasticity’. You can manipulate the variation, as long as you know how and when. And that’s where DNA testing comes into play. Once you’ve identified your genes, you can tailor your lifestyle choices, exercise regime, diet, supplements and medications for optimum expression of your genes. Knowing your genetic profile gives you a road map to achieving peak health. Once you’ve done a DNA test, I strongly recommend you have a qualified practitioner help you analyse your results and provide you with a specific program. And this is where the magic happens. Following a tailor-made program based on your genes is like swimming with the tide, not against it. Little things you do, but intuitively you know don’t feel right, will all of a
WWW.PEAKDNA.COM sudden make sense. For example, if you’ve always preferred short activity bursts over going for a long run, then there’s a fair chance you have the ACTN3 gene. That’s the sprinter’s gene, not the long-distance runner’s gene!
ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL
Knowing your health blueprint allows you to be proactive with your health, and perform at your PEAK! PeakDNA is a lifestyle DNA Test which focusses on four factors that determine your peak health: •
Two people may follow an identical program, yet have totally different results. Chalk this up to genes! Your genes determine how complex chemical reactions play out within your body. A particular gene may dictate how your body metabolises a certain food. Some people might have a slight variation in that gene. As with the hair colour gene, the variation in this gene is perfectly normal. But just as you may end up with a different hair colour, you also may end up reacting differently to a particular diet and training program if you have that genetic variation.
WHY DO A DNA TEST? Aside from knowing your DNA makeup to best devise a health and fitness strategy that will deliver maximum results, it’s also useful for your longterm health and happiness. If you know what conditions you are genetically predisposed to, you can adjust your lifestyle to reduce the risk of that condition manifesting.
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DETOX - Preparing your body for peak health - out with the toxins! NUTRITION - The best food for you for weightloss, optimal health and feeling vital. ACTIVITY - The ideal sports and activities for your body, how you recover, and injury risk. MENTAL HEALTH - Warrior vs Worrier. How you cope in a crisis or with added stress.
The value of a DNA test is enhanced by informed interpretation of the test results and recommended lifestyle changes. The Peak DNA Program is created based on your DNA and incorporates diet and exercise, as well as suggested supplements and activities that will enhance your health. It’s a simple cheek-swab test, then your DNA is sent to a state-of-the-art lab in Melbourne for analysis and interpretation. From there a tailormade program is created for you. Once you have your program, you’ll be on your way to reaching your peak. 69
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02 W H AT A R E T H E S I G N S O F S T R E S S T H AT Y O U M AY N O T EVEN NOTICE? WORDS: DR VINCENT CANDRAWINATA
As adults, we become accustomed to stress; we feel stress every day - at work, at home and at school. It’s important to understand how to get a hold of our stress levels before they have a harmful effect on our health.
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It’s no secret that untreated stress levels can lead to poorer health, but there is science behind it. Stress hormones are released as a response within the body, as a fight-or-flight reflex to stimulus. It’s only once that stress has passed that these hormones subside. This means that constantly being under stress leads to constant stress hormones, which leads to negative ramifications that can be felt across your body. It’s important to distinguish between ‘good stress’ and ‘bad stress’. You will know good stress as the slight burst of anxiety or adrenaline felt before you have an exam or a deadline. This is usually good for you as it gives you what you need to get through that exam or deadline. This could be anything from a little bit more energy to some clarity within the mind. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on these spurts of ‘good stress’, as too many one after the other can lead to ‘bad stress’. ‘Bad stress’ is characterised as being unrelenting, it’s the feelings you can’t get rid of. This can often be linked to taking work home with you, not getting enough sleep, thinking about your week and overthinking. Not to mention the added stresses of family and personal lives. It’s no wonder that sometimes we feel overloaded, simply because we’re juggling too many things. I cannot emphasise enough how important it is to take note of these moments. This is the first step to not letting your bad stress get the better of you. This can be as easy as taking a moment, either every day or every week, to do something for yourself – go for a swim, read a book, cook a meal you love – all these things are examples of actions that can do wonders for our stress levels. It’s important to also recognise the negative health effects of bad stress, as it can lead to other unhealthy coping practises like binge drinking, smoking and sometimes stress eating. Over a period of weeks, this can have very detrimental ramifications on your health.
Signs of stress that you may not even notice:
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Not being able to sleep – If you think back over the last week and can’t pinpoint a night that you had a really good sleep, this could be a key indicator that you’re suffering from bad stress. Not being able to turn your mind off – If you’re one of those people who has a hard time with spare time, don’t worry about it! This is completely normal and there are plenty of meditation tactics that can help with this that can also help you sleep through the night. Constantly catching a cold – When we’re stressed, our immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is severely compromised. This can see us being more susceptible to something as simple as the common cold. Often, just after you get rid of a cold, it comes back a week or two later. This is a key indicator that your immune system is not quite where it should be. Increased heart rate – Are you finding that even when still, your resting heart rate seems fast? This is also tied in to the fight-orflight reflex. When we’re stressed, our blood pressure rises in anticipation for, quite literally, a fight, or for us to flee. So if you’re sitting at home, maybe thinking about all the things you have to do tomorrow, and your heart rate feels fast, it’s because you’re probably stressing yourself out. Take a moment to inhale and exhale slowly, talk to a friend or a loved one about anything you have on the next day, and your heart rate can start to dissipate.
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As a food scientist who has spent many years in a laboratory exploring ways to maximise our intake of key ‘BAD STRESS’ IS CHARACTERISED supplements, there are some important things AS BEING UNRELENTING, IT’S THE we can do to support FEELINGS YOU CAN’T GET RID OF our immune system and increase our energy levels while improving our overall health and wellbeing. The first is to get enough rest. Rest is important for our body to heal and restore itself. The second is to eat the right foods. Eating fresh whole foods and avoiding fast food is key to giving our bodies the best fuel possible. The third is to take a good supplement every day. Until now, supplements have been created one of two ways - synthetically in a lab, or extracted from natural foods using chemicals, both of which are very difficult for the body to break down and absorb. Antioxidants made synthetically, or extracted from natural food using chemicals such as methanol or ethanol, require these same chemicals to break them down. However, our bodies don’t produce those chemicals. Something our bodies have in large quantities is water, which is why this new water-soluble antioxidant is such a breakthrough. I’ve finally been able to create something natural and compatible with the human body. Unlike other antioxidants, Activated Phenolics pose no risk of pro-oxidation - a scenario where antioxidants, 72 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
once they have seized free radicals, can themselves become harmfully unstable under certain conditions. Phenolics are powerful free radical ‘scavengers’ that cause no harm or negative side-effects. Their level of safety means they are also a great option for children. Phenolics have three arms free to catch free radicals, and importantly don’t ever become unstable or unsafe in the human body after doing so. Other antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, have only one free arm, and after collecting a free radical can become unstable. This is known as pro-oxidation and can do more harm than good. As the first scientist in the world to develop a method to extract Activated Phenolics, or ultra antioxidants, as they’re more commonly known, from fruit for consumption in tablet and powder form, I thoroughly recommend taking Activated Phenolics every day. Activated Phenolics move through the body mopping up and removing bad toxins that cause cell damage. Cell damage leads to illnesses such as cancer, so it’s good to get rid of bad toxins from your body. The easiest way is to take antioxidants every day. The range of Activated Phenolics are made from 100% Australian apples, are vegan and additivefree. www.renovatio.com.au.
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03 SAUNA: THE NAKED TRUTH
WORDS: NEIL OWEN
WHEREVER FINNS T R AV E L L E D T H E Y BROUGHT THEIR S A U N A C U LT U R E W I T H THEM, MAKING IT THE G LO BA L P H E N O M E N O N I T I S T O D AY.
So what’s all the fuss about? Is it just hot air? Having designed and used saunas over the past 25 years in various countries, I’ll look at the origins of sauna, explore the benefits, clarify the etiquette and share my own personal experiences of sitting in these glorious hot wooden boxes. Sauna has been a way of life in Finland for over 2,000 years and one of the first written descriptions of the Finnish sauna dates back to 1112, describing how they were dug into embankments in the ground. Saunas were later built above ground as wooden log structures. Rocks were heated in a stone stove with a wood fire until the rocks were very hot. There was no chimney, just a small air vent in the back wall and the door was kept shut as smoke filled the room. Preparing the sauna was a lengthy ritual, often taking half a day. Once the wood had burnt down, the embers heated the sauna up to the desired temperature. When the smoke cleared, the bathers entered. Over time, the walls and ceiling would darken and
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this original sauna was called ‘savu’, which in Finnish is translated as ‘in smoke’. The sauna later evolved into the more typical metal woodstove heater with the chimney, which is the foundation of the design we see today. Wherever Finns travelled, they brought their sauna culture with them, making it the global phenomenon it is today. Today over 2 million saunas warm up the rears of 5.5 million Finns at least once a week, although the Finnish Sauna Society believes the number of saunas could be as high as 3.2 million, with several people using each of them daily. The President and Prime Minister of Finland both have a sauna, and they’re found in city apartments, country cottages, big companies and state institutions. It’s so entwined in the fabric of Finnish life, it’s claimed that more business decisions get made in saunas than in the boardroom! Benefits of sauna have up until recently been primarily anecdotal, however recent studies have been
Thanks to Sauna From Finland & Photographer Harri Tarvainen for these images.
Sauna, pronounced “sow (as in wow) nah”, from Finnish origins, was voted one of eight wellness trends for 2017. Sales have doubled globally in the last 12 months. They can be found in health clubs, Spas, hotels and people’s homes. A sauna even featured in Disney’s Oscar-winning movie Frozen.
published to support its role within the medical community. Among the recent studies to put sauna in the spotlight was a 2016 study published in the Age and Ageing Journal from the University of Eastern Finland that analysed the medical records of 2,315 men over 20 years and found that those who used a sauna four to seven times a week had a 66% lower risk of dementia and a 65% lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease. A small University of Toyama (Japan) study showed that repeated sauna treatments improved exercise tolerance, increasing the heart’s ability to pump blood and boosting the distance that participants could walk in six minutes from 337 metres to 379 in patients with chronic heart failure. A Kagoshima University (Japan) study found that three weeks of sauna therapy combined with underwater 75
The basics of operating and using a modern-day sauna are fairly standard globally. The temperature should be set between 80 to 100 degrees Celsius. The user should take a shower before entering, and once inside place a small towel on the bench to sit on, both for hygienic reasons and as a barrier from the direct heat. The humidity and temperature is increased by throwing water on the stones. After a few minutes of perspiring, refresh by showering, before repeating the process based on personal needs and preferences. Then get dressed only after the body temperature has returned to normal and perspiration has stopped. The use of saunas should however be treated with care. You’re putting your body into extreme temperatures and those with heart complaints
or high blood pressure should seek medical advice before using. Healthy individuals should also treat the sauna with respect - listen to your body and if it’s getting too hot, leave the sauna to rest and cool down. Despite the standardised methods of using a sauna, local etiquette can vary considerably, with the ‘kit on’ or ‘kit off’ dilemma creating global confusion and complete mental chaos for many a grown man. To shed moonlight on this butt-clenching topic, here’s a global summary based on my travels in sauna across the globe. In Scandinavia, Austria, Germany and German-speaking countries, mixed nude bathing is normal. In Russia (home of the Banya), the same applies, with vodka thrown in. The rest of Western Europe is confused, with the Brits and Irish being very inhibited, wearing as much as they can, although the French in some thalassotherapy centres are more relaxed. In the
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Middle East, where the hamam rules, there is strict separation of the sexes, except in tourist resorts. Men wear something around their waists, whereas women go nude. In Japan, home to onsen (hot springs) and sento (public baths), nude mixed bathing is totally acceptable. In other parts of Asia, generally modesty is common, although the ‘sensuality’ derived through massage in many areas has created a sometimes confused market. The Aussies are torn by their proximity to Asia and their European heritage and are therefore confused, and finally North Americans are generally extremely modest and love a fluffy towel to cover up what they can! It’s important to appreciate that it’s second nature to be naked in saunas in many countries; in fact, in some countries, signs and employees will tell you it’s mandatory! In most cases, wearing swimwear is seen as unhygienic, offensive and will ironically only draw attention to
Thanks to Sauna From Finland & Photographer Harri Tarvainen for these images.
exercise significantly improved the pain, symptoms and quality of life of female fibromyalgia patients.
yourself. For those who are body conscious or new to sauna, it can take some getting used to, and it’s understandably unnatural for many people to just whip everything off. The tourist organisation Visit Finland provides a thought-provoking insight into how ingrained sauna is in their way of life, stating: “Finnish sauna has nothing to do with sex, and suggesting it will not score points with Finns. It is a place for physical and mental cleansing, and many suggest one should behave in a sauna as they would in a church.” For those letting go of the towel for the first time, it could be a big step outside your personal comfort zone, however, if it helps, just remember the probability of bumping into your neighbour when visiting a Scandinavian or German Spa on vacation is extremely remote. I always go by the simple rule of ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do’. If you abide by this philosophy when visiting a sauna, you can’t go wrong. However, note to self: rules can vary and traditions can change. Just check out what those prudish Brits got up to in Georgian Bath only 200 years ago! From a personal perspective, it only gets tricky when mixing sauna with business. While on business in Germany recently visiting a sauna manufacturer, I found myself sitting naked in a huge traditional 40-person wood-fired Alto Sauna next to my business partners. To our total surprise, the Finnish-born host and CEO of the company we were visiting entered his new super sauna wearing nothing but a tiny apron, fully armed with a swirling towel and a bunch of birch leaves. Unknown to us, he was a qualified ‘sauna-meister’, a kind of master of ceremonies who controls the sauna heat. First he stoked up the oven and poured water onto the stove to increase the humidity, then after swirling his towel vigorously, he directed and pushed intense heat onto each individual, one by one. Next
he introduced a bunch of leafy birch twigs, known in Finnish as a ‘vihta’, dipped them into water and gently flagellated all sauna users to open the pores and enhance circulation. (You can flagellate yourself if a saunameister isn’t present). The ritual started at the feet, then following some German dialogue, two men, easily in their late 70s, using the sauna as part of their weekly routine, stood up, turned around, then leant over, allowing the sauna-meister to repeatedly slap their gravity-enhanced buttocks (sorry you couldn’t help look). Not to miss out and to ensure we didn’t insult our host, one by one we obliged and were put to the sword! Just when you thought it couldn’t get any more surreal, the saunameister burst into a Finnish song, whilst we recovered submissively from our brutal, yet weirdly satisfying, beating. After around 15
IT IS A PLACE FOR P H Y S I C A L A N D M E N TA L CLEANSING, AND MANY SUGGEST ONE SHOULD B E H AV E I N A S AU N A A S THEY WOULD IN A C H U R C H .’ minutes, we left the sauna, took an ice-cold shower to lower our body temperatures, before retreating to a ‘cooling room’ below the sauna for refreshments (beer) before returning for a few more sessions. I must say, once over the initial nakedness with business colleagues, I was soon lost in the pure drama, making this one of the most memorable theatrical and cultural experiences I’ve ever had. As with most things in life, when something is popular, attempts are made to improve the incumbent design and evolve the product. For sauna, this may be delivered by 77
carving curved wooden interiors, installing glass viewing panels, fitting LED lights or introducing music to give it a 21st century face lift. Helsinki’s new high-design Löyly sauna complex, Scotland’s new lochside ‘Hot Box’ with DJ and bar, and trendy urban ‘sweat lodges’ serving up infrared sauna treatments, like NYC’s Higher Dose, are examples of how saunas are being developed across the globe as not just a wellness experience, but a new type of hip amphitheatre or social hang-out. Other innovations include quirky pop-up saunas floating on lakes, saunas upcycled from cable cars or hanging from bridges. New designs have become a way of introducing sauna to a new audience and if it means making it cool for the younger generation by creating new social spaces, it can only be positive for the future of sauna.
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Personally, for me, sauna’s simplicity is at the core of its beauty. With so many gadgets and distractions in our lives today, sauna provides a precious moment to switch off from all the noise out there. Sauna’s future is looking positive with tremendous growth in global sales and medical results now available to back up what the Finns have known for years. If you’re fortunate enough, for true appreciation, visit countries where sauna is an integral part of people’s lives. When there, you should get your kit off among complete strangers, experience the power of a traditional wood-fired oven, feel the sensation of the vihta across your skin, listen to the song of a sauna-meister and roll in the snow to cool down. Only then, I believe, can you fully appreciate the naked truth. www.spavision.com
Thanks to Sauna From Finland & Photographer Harri Tarvainen for these images.
WITH SO MANY GADGETS AND DISTRACTIONS IN OUR L I V E S T O D AY, S A U N A PROVIDES A PRECIOUS MOMENT TO SWITCH OFF FROM ALL THE NOISE OUT THERE.
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Enjoy their 5-Day all-inclusive retreats to restore and rebalance your health. • All food & drinks use only the finest of organic, mostly local plant-based foods • Spa treatments selected from our Day Spa menu including far infrared sauna and flotation pool sessions. • Informative and educational sessions
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YO G A MOVES USTRASANA (KING OR QUEEN DANCER) A pose to test your balance, while rejuvenating your inner spirit. This wonderful position gives you a sense of elation and power, rejuvenates your spirit and internal organs, and improves your sense of balance. A good sense of balance can help prevent falls, which can be a serious problem as we age, especially if bone density is weakened. 1. Stand straight with arms at your sides. If you’re a beginner, use a wall in front of you to help you balance. 2. Bend your left knee and bring your left foot up behind you. With your left hand, take hold of the inner side of your left foot. Straighten your elbow and stretch your arm up close to your ear. 3. Inhale and lean forward, lengthening your spine. Lift your bent leg and arm up behind you as high as possible. Breathe deeply and look straight ahead. Hold for 5-15 breaths. 4. Repeat this posture on the opposite arm and leg.
IMAGE COURTESY OF ALILA SEMINYAK
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04 MY PERSONAL JOURNEY TO FITNESS WORDS: SLOANE DAVIS
I started exercising religiously at the age of 39 after my second child was born. I gained 50 pounds with my first child and never took off all the weight before my second child was conceived. 82 | spaandwellnessinternational.com
After my second child was born, I joined a gym and thoroughly enjoyed the time I got to be in my zone in fun fitness group classes. I did a good job of taking the weight off, mostly by watching what I ate. I relied heavily on salads and vegetables and a lot of grilled chicken! Like most people, I was led to believe that carbs were the enemy, thinner is always better; to burn more calories for foods we eat by doing cardio and less food equates to bigger results. A decade later, when I turned 40, I started my new plan to ‘see my abs’. I was always told they were “made in the kitchen,” you just needed to be lean enough to see them! I got to the point where I couldn’t lose another pound, and I was clearly too thin, yet still no abs! I started reading every health and fitness journal out there. I became obsessed, spending all my free time trying to learn as much as I could. I soon learned that I had no muscle, even though I thought I did because I’d used the 5-8 pound dumbbells in my group exercise classes for the last 9 years. How could I not? But the truth was, no matter how lean, I was never going to see my abs because I needed to grow them in order to see them! I was simply spinning my wheels in endless cardio classes. Along with learning about building muscle, I simultaneously learned about flexible dieting, which is based on being able to eat any food you wish, as long as they fit your macros. Macros being protein, fat and carbs. The process of
learning about weight lifting, coupled with counting macros, enabled my whole perception of weight loss to change. I never knew that food could (and should) be used as fuel, and that in order to build muscle, we actually need to eat more, and lift heavy weights. I learned that I would need to eat a caloric surplus to enable muscle growth. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do mentally. It was the first time in my life that I realised how much food I was able to eat and still maintain my weight, not gain. I simply needed to trust the process. I’m so glad I did because it’s what truly changed my body and those defined ab muscles.
HERE ARE MY T O P 5 H E A LT H T R A N S F O R M AT I O N T I P S :
TIP 1 Don’t be a slave to your diet. Have a diet plan that works for you. If you’re not happy with what you’re doing, it’s most likely you won’t continue to do it. Restrictive dieting very often sets people up for failure. We all want what we can’t have, so as soon as you’re told you can’t have a certain food, your brain signals that you want it even more. Typically what happens is people are ‘good’ all week, and then blow their diet on the weekend because they 83
crave certain foods and binge, gaining back whatever they lost during the week. This is why I love flexible dieting. While it is restricted in the sense that you need to budget your food, it’s not restrictive in that you can have any foods you like. A successful diet is one that you can sustain longterm. Consistency is the key to any weight loss plan. So make sure to include all different types of food into your diet. You can still have success eating the food you love!
TIP 2 Make sure you’re eating enough protein. Most people think they eat a fair amount, but do not consume nearly as much as they should. A good rule to follow is 1 g of protein for your desired weight, so if your desired weight is 130 pounds, then you should eat 130 grams of protein. And eat at least two meals that include vegetables.
TIP 3 Have a plan. Over time, you’ll see you’re able to meet your goals, which will motivate you to continue. I encourage my clients to plan a full day’s worth of meals in advance of what they’re going to eat or think they may eat. It helps you stay on track and not go over food budgets. I also encourage writing a workout plan for each day. After six years of this lifestyle, I still walk into the gym each day with a plan.
TIP 4 If you really want to change your body, you’re going to need to pick up the weights. It’s impossible for cardio alone to change your shape. Lifting weights and building muscle will allow you to burn more calories while resting, which increases your metabolic rate. While a pound of muscle and fat both weigh the same, muscle is much more dense, taking up less space in the body. The more muscle you can build, the leaner you will become.
TIP 5 Don’t let the scales define you. The scales do not take into account body mass, hormones, salt, water, volume of food and many other things. This is why I encourage my clients to take measurements and pictures for a more accurate assessment of their progress. I weigh 10 pounds more on the scale now and am leaner than I’ve
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ever been. Why? Because naturally the scales don’t take into account the muscle I’ve built. You can do it! If I can, you can!
Sloane Davis is a Certified Nutritionist and Personal Trainer who has helped thousands of people, both men and women, around the world get into top shape, both mentally and physically. Sloane has her undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Arts from Syracuse University and became accredited through ISSA with her degree in Sports Nutrition and Personal Training. She works personally and online with thousands of clients in the US and globally. www.pancakesandpush-ups.com
Photo by ORNELLA BINNI on Unsplash
Take time out and enjoy absolutely nothing
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10 TIPS TO CUT SUGAR 01
Don’t use sugar as a reward. Wrinkles, fat around your tummy and bad teeth are not rewards. But a trip to a Spa is!
02
Eat plenty of chromium. This helps reduce cravings. Chromium is found in eggs, nuts, mushrooms, wholegrains, asparagus, liver and molasses.
03
Take glutamine. This supplement also helps reduce sweet cravings. A teaspoon in water usually knocks that sweet craving on its head.
04
Include purine-rich proteins in your diet. Sugar cravings are often a sign of a lack of protein. Dark meats contain more purines. If you’re vegetarian, kidney beans, lima beans, mushrooms, navy beans, oatmeal and peas are also good sources.
05 06
Eat sweet vegetables and fruit. These are naturally sweet, healthy and delicious. That said, fruit is high in sugar and is best eaten in moderation and with protein (such as nuts or cheese) to reduce the insulin spike. The best fruit choice is thin-skinned, darker fruits, such as berries, as they’re highest in antioxidants. Use gentle sweets. Avoid chemicalised, artificial sweeteners and foods with added sugar. Use gentle sweeteners, like raw Manuka honey, maple syrup, brown rice syrup, dried fruit, stevia and barley malt, again in moderation. If you need a sweet kick or are baking cakes, try Stevia, a herb that is 200 times sweeter than sugar. Also try Natvia, a new natural product that is derived from the freshest tips of Stevia plants and tastes just like sugar. It’s a careful blend of Stevia and a naturally occurring nectar known as Erythritol, which is found in melons and grapes. I’m a baker and I either use pear juice concentrate or coconut sugar, as both have a much lower GI than sugar and added nutirients. Remember sugar is a totally empty calorie adding nothing to your health.
07
Get more sleep, rest and relaxation. Simple carbohydrates, such as sugar, are the most readily usable forms of energy for an exhausted body and mind. If you’re in a chronic state of stress or sleep deprivation, your body craves the quickest form of energy there is: sugar.
08
Eliminate fat-free or low-fat packaged snack-foods. These foods contain high quantities of sugar to compensate for the lack of flavour and fat, sending you on a big rollercoaster ride of sugar highs and lows.
09 10
Experiment with spices. Use coriander, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and cardamom to naturally sweeten your foods and reduce cravings. Slow down and find sweetness in non-food ways! Every craving is not a signal that your body biologically requires sugar. Cravings often have a psychological component. By identifying the psychological causes of food cravings and substituting lifestyle and relationship adjustments accordingly, you can begin to find balance and take charge of your health. When life becomes sweet enough in itself, no additives are needed! .
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FOOD REVIEW
05 B L U E M AT C H A Even though it has enjoyed overnight fame on Instagram, blue matcha has been used in Ayurvedic medicine, as well as conventional Eastern and Middle Eastern medicine, for centuries. This natural tea powder made from 100% dried and ground Butterfly Pea flowers (clitoris principissae) and its health benefits are backed by modern science.
WORDS: KRIS ABBEY
Matcha tea has been proven to be one of the most antioxidant-rich natural ingredients in the world, with more than 600% more antioxidants than goji berries! Antioxidants are responsible for a wide range of stunning benefits including: The ability to help fight common cancers.
B L U E M AT C H A I S A S V E R S AT I L E A S I T I S S T U N N I N G . I T ’ S G R E AT E N J OY E D A S A T E A , O R ADDED TO SMOOTHIES, B R E A K FA S T B O W L S , M U F F I N S O R R AW CAKES FOR SOME C O LO U R , P LU S A N ANTIOXIDANT BOOST!
Improved immune system and overall health. In addition to its antioxidant-rich features, other compounds and micronutrients in matcha such as L-theanine and chlorophyll have been shown to: Improve concentration and memory. Boost metabolism and assist with weight loss. Help cleanse your body and remove harmful toxins. Have a calming, anxiolytic affect and reduce stress. Relax smooth vascular muscles, assisting blood flow. Help reduce pain, to the extent that it’s often applied as a topical anaesthetic. The deep blue blossoms contain flavonoid pigments that protect the plant. Eating or drinking the blossom’s extracts provides a similar anti-inflammatory effect in your body. Help delay ageing, due to the anti-inflammatory properties.
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ADD BLUE MATCHA TO RAW CHEESECAKES FOR EXTRA NUTRIENTS AND COLOUR!
BUTTERFLY MAIN POOL PEA FLOWERS
BLUE & GREEN MATCHA LATTÉS
VERSATILE Blue Matcha works well in both savoury and sweet dishes. Try adding a tablespoon to the water as you cook rice, then enjoy the reaction when you serve up blue rice! 89
RECIPES
06 H E A LT H Y M A D E E A S Y Luke Hines, The Clean Living Cook, is all about celebrating real food that tastes phenomenal! And he believes it should be something everyone can enjoy by making it fun, sustainable and delicious. He walks the talk and oozes great health. Here he shares some of his favourite breakfast recipes from his new book... so you can start your day great too!
WORDS: LUKE HINES
T H E FO L LOW I N G RECIPES ARE FROM L U K E ’ S L AT E S T B O O K ‘ H E A LT H Y M A D E E A S Y ’ P U B L I S H E D BY P LU M A N D AVA I L A B L E F R O M ALL GOOD BOOKSTORES (RRP $39.99).
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WHIPPED VANILLA COCONUT CREAM 1 x 400 ml can coconut cream, refrigerated upside down 1 tablespoon maple syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Scoop the solids of the coconut cream into a bowl, being careful not to add any of the clear liquid (keep this for using in smoothies, sauces and curries). Add the maple syrup and vanilla extract, then use a hand mixer on high speed to whisk until thick and well combined. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
“ T H I S V E R S AT I L E W H I P P E D C O C O N U T C R E A M I S S U P E R D E L I C I O U S – T RY I T S P O O N E D O N TO P O F YO U R B R E A K FA S T, D O L L O P E D I N T O A H O T D R I N K O R S E R V E D A L O N G S I D E Y O U R FA V O U R I T E D E S S E R T.”
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RECIPES
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NUT AND BLUEBERRY LOAF WITH WHIPPED VANILLA COCONUT CREAM 250 g dessicated or shredded coconut 6 eggs 3 tablespoons maple syrup 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 large, very ripe banana, mashed 250 g (1½ cups) frozen blueberries
1. 2.
Get started by preheating the oven to 180ºC and lining a 22 cm loaf tin with baking paper. Put three-quarters of the coconut in a food processor and blitz until it forms a crumbly, flourlike consistency (be mindful not to over-process, or it will turn into coconut butter). 3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs, maple syrup, vanilla seeds and baking powder together by hand or with a hand mixer for 2–3 minutes or until well combined. Add the mashed banana and stir to combine. 4. Fold the coconut flour into the egg mixture, then gently fold through three-quarters of the blueberries. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, scatter over the rest of the blueberries and coconut, and bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. To test, press down gently on the top of the loaf – if it holds its shape, it’s ready. 5. Remove the loaf from the oven, turn out of the tin and leave to cool on a wire rack (if you’re patient enough!), then slice and enjoy with a generous slather of whipped vanilla coconut cream and a drizzle of honey.
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Rich in antioxidants and packed full of magnesium, this smoothie bowl is the perfect start to the day for all you chocolate lovers out there. CHOCOLATE DREAM SMOOTHIE BOWL
serves 2 2 bananas, frozen if possible 500 ml (2 cups) Vanilla Almond Milk 2 tablespoons nut butter 2 tablespoons cacao powder 1 teaspoon maple syrup 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped To serve: 2 tablespoons shredded coconut 2 tablespoons Crunchy Cacao and Coconut Clusters 1 tablespoon cacao nibs 60 g fresh raspberries 1.
2.
Place the bananas, almond milk, nut butter, cacao powder, maple syrup and vanilla seeds in a food processor or highspeed blender and blitz until smooth and creamy. Pour the mixture evenly into two serving bowls and top with the shredded coconut, cacao and coconut clusters, cacao nibs and raspberries. Serve straight away.
TIP IF YOU’RE PLANNING ON ENJOYING THIS – OR ANY OF THE OTHER SMOOTHIE BOWLS HERE – SOLO, SIMPLY MAKE THE RECIPE AS INSTRUCTED AND FREEZE THE EXCESS. THEN WHEN YOU’RE READY TO ENJOY IT LATER DOWN THE TRACK, JUST DEFROST AND BLEND BRIEFLY AGAIN, ADD THE TOPPINGS AND YOU’RE GOOD TO GO.
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WAIKIKI WAKE-UP BOWL
serves 2 155 g frozen blueberries 125 g frozen raspberries 1 banana, frozen if possible 2 tablespoons nut butter 250 ml (1 cup) Homemade Coconut Milk 1 tablespoon maple syrup 2–3 ice cubes To serve: 1 handful of blueberries 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds 1 tablespoon roughly chopped brazil nuts
1.
2.
Place the berries, banana, nut butter, coconut milk, maple syrup and ice in a food processor or highspeed blender and blitz until smooth and creamy. Divide the mixture evenly between two bowls and serve with the blueberries, pumpkin seeds and chopped brazil nuts.
HEALTH BOOST In Hawaii, smoothie bowls are often made with frozen açai berries – tiny dark berries that pack a real antioxidant punch. If you can get your hands on some (they can be found in good health food stores), try using them to top these bowls in place of the blueberries.
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H E A LT H Y M A D E E A S Y (CONT)
Packed with an epic combination of carbohydrates, good fats and protein, this one’s for all the fitness junkies out there. WORLD-BEATING WORKOUT BOWL
This lovely raw breakfast bowl requires no blending or cooking at all, just a simple combination of nuts, seeds, fruit and coconut oil to deliver a super-clean brekkie that keeps you full all morning.
serves 2 RAW PRIMAL BOWL 3 bananas, frozen if possible 250 ml (1 cup) Vanilla Almond Milk 2 tablespoons nut butter 2 tablespoons protein powder of your choice ½ avocado 1 tablespoon maple syrup 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped 2–3 ice cubes To serve: 1 banana, finely sliced 1 tablespoon chia seeds 2 tablespoons chopped macadamia nuts 1.
2.
Place the banana, almond milk, nut butter, protein powder, avocado, maple syrup, vanilla seeds and ice in a food processor or high-speed blender and blitz until smooth and creamy. Divide the mixture evenly between two serving bowls and top with the sliced banana, chia seeds and macadamias. Serve straight away.
HEALTH BOOST Hemp seeds are an incredible source of healthy fats, containing a whopping 30% of the good stuff! They can be found at most good health food stores.
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serves 2 1 banana 2 tablespoons tahini 2 tablespoons hemp seeds 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds 1 tablespoon chia seeds 2 tablespoons shredded coconut 45 g (1/3 cup) finely chopped macadamia nuts 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted 1 handful of mixed fresh berries, to serve 1.
2.
Place the banana and tahini in a bowl and mash together with a fork. Once really well combined, add the seeds, shredded coconut, macadamias and coconut oil. Mix together well. Divide between two serving bowls, top with mixed berries and enjoy.
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06
SUNNY SEASON S C E N T- S AT I O N S What’s the best way to add a pre-emptive spring to your step as the mercury rises? WORDS: KRISTINA ILOANNUO FROM A CLASSIC CITRUS TO A BRIGHT A N D B U B B LY B U R S T OF TROPICAL FRUITS, W H AT ’ S Y O U R S U M M E R SCENT?
A veil of perfume that summons a brighter state of mind with every spritz. From a classic citrus to a bright and bubbly burst of tropical fruits, reach for one of these mood-boosting fragrances this summer. 1. IME NATURAL PERFUME Euterpe [cool]– Fresh and fruity, a creative blend of light citrus and uplifting greens on a smooth raspberry accord inspire juicy summer memories with style and sass. 2. AERIN TUBEROSE LE JOUR EAU DE PARFUM - Inspired by India’s legendary white Tuberose flower, this floral aroma captures the fresh, bright scent of the delicate buds gently gathered at dawn.
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3. CALVIN KLEIN OBSESSED FOR WOMEN - Notes of frankincense, musk, sandalwood, peach and basil make this hearty fragrance perfect for summer night soirees. 4. LA VANILLA THE HEALTHY FRAGRANCE VANILLA COCONUT - This exotic blend of young creamy coconut, sweet Tahitian tiare flower and warm Madagascar vanilla instantly transports you to paradise. Perfection.
5. JO MALONE NECTARINE BLOSSOM HONEY COLOGNE – Succulent nectarine, peach and cassis and delicate spring flowers melt into the note of acacia honey. Sweet and playful for sunny days and nights.
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