focus magazine June/July 2021 / New Zealand

focus LIFESTYLE AND BUSINESS MAGAZINE. INSPIRE. EMPOWER. MOTIVATE.

ISSUE 28 | JUNE - JULY 2021

TAKE A BREATH, NEW ZEALAND! How Sarah Laurie cures anxiety

orua t o R FROM WITH LOVE

Couple’s weekend in Rotorua

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ALSO INSIDE:

MILA ARENA FROM BACKPACKING TO NATIONWIDE BUSINESS SUCCESS

LIANNE BATEMAN DONATES KIDNEY TO A STRANGER, THE SCIENCE OF MEMORY, BODY-POSITIVE INSTAGRAM INFLUENCERS, WINTER RECIPES, MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY, FOUR HEALTH GIVEAWAYS

Take me h ome I’M FREE

CONTENTS | focus

18 CONTENTS

JUNE - JULY2021

16

COVER STORY

LIFE

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16

MILA ARENA The founder of the first vegan food delivery service in New Zealand

REGULARS 6

WHAT’S ON? Best events over the next two months

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FOCUS ON BOOKS New releases you’ll love

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ASK THE EXPERTS

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TAKE A BREATH, NEW ZEALAND! Sarah Laurie explains how breathing affects anxiety

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REMEMBER: THE SCIENCE OF MEMORY AND THE ART OF FORGETTING

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KIDNEY SISTERS How Lianne Bateman donated her kidney to a person who was neither a family member nor a close friend

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What you need to know about skin exfoliation and Bowen therapy

REDEFINING SOCIAL MEDIA

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Kiwis who promote body positivity and self-love online

Vitamins and supplements for health and beauty

BUSINESS

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Dee and Mark Collins explore Rotorua

An excerpt from Mary Holm’s latest book

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Winter cookbook and Dry July mocktails

How to deep clean your workspace

BEAUTY

TRAVEL

RECIPES

A RICHER YOU

CLEAN BREAK

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focus | DIGITAL

ONLINE IN JUNE-JULY YOUTUBE.COM/FOCUSMAGAZINENZ

FOCUSMAGAZINE.CO.NZ

BEST HOT POOLS IN NEW ZEALAND TO WARM UP IN THIS WINTER

We never expected our creative director Alex Spodyneiko to leave his cosy place behind the desk, but, as a photographer, the long-time chemistry he’s developed with Mila Arena as a model, was a valid enough reason to make an exception. The photoshoot lasted five hours and we’re still in awe of Laura Lemos’ makeup and hair work that survived many outfit and location changes with ease.

Don’t miss the behind-the-scenes video on our YouTube channel!

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Tea ingredients to fight off the cold

The first five people to purchase an annual subscription to focus magazine for only $38 will receive a BLIS UltraBLIS, valued at $35, with their first edition.

UltraBLIS is a unique, next-generation probiotic supplement that combines key strains beneficial for both oral and gut microbiomes, helping to strengthen your overall immunity and optimise your microbiome.

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DELICIOUS MOCKTAILS FOR YOUR DRY JULY FRIDAYS

focus Editor’s Welcome PUBLISHER Align Publishing EDITOR Dee Collins dee@focusmagazine.co.nz CREATIVE DIRECTOR Alex Spodyneiko ONLINE EDITOR Kseniia Spodyneiko kseniia@focusmagazine.co.nz SALES advertising@focusmagazine.co.nz COVER IMAGE Alex Spodyneiko FEATURE WRITERS Margarete Kraemer Lisa Genova Dr Liza Schneider Mary Holm PRINTING Print People CONTACT DETAILS 62 10th Avenue Tauranga 3110 P O Box 14004, Tauranga, 3143 Tel: (07) 578 6838 Mobile: 021 535 770 focusmagazine.co.nz facebook.com/focusmagazinenz DISTRIBUTION 5,000 free copies are delivered bi-monthly to high traffic areas such as high-end cafés and restaurants, hairdressers, fashion boutiques, waiting rooms and professional offices across BOP, Hamilton, Cambridge and surrounding areas.

DIGITAL focus is available to view online and is supported by social media sites including Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. focus is a free magazine (subscriptions are available) and is published six times a year by Align Publishing. focus is subject to copyright in its entirety. All rights are reserved and reproduction in whole or in part, without the written consent of The Publisher (Align Publishing), is prohibited.

Align Publishing and all its related companies and officers hereby disclaim, to the full extent permitted by law, all liability, damages, costs and expenses whatsoever arising from or in connection with information or other material in this magazine, any negligence of The Publisher, or any person’s actions in reliance thereon.

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and correctness of the information contained within this magazine and inclusion of any copy must not be taken as an endorsement

by The Publisher. Views expressed by contributors are personal views and they are not necessarily endorsed

by The Publisher. Any dispute or complaint regarding placed advertisements must be made within seven days of publication.

All material sent to focus (whether solicited or not) will not be returned unless otherwise agreed beforehand, and all rights, including copyright in such material will be assigned to Align Publishing upon receipt. The Publishers presume all letters and other material submitted to focus and related social media sites are intended for publication unless clearly labelled “not for publication”.

W

ith every edition of focus, we aim to bring you inspiring articles that showcase many of the incredible women in our region. Mila Arena, owner of V on Wheels, is one such woman.

Having Mila on our Health and Wellbeing cover was an easy choice for us – we’ve watched Mila’s business grow from strength to strength and, through it all, Mila has remained a beautiful soul who always finds time to encourage and support those around her. And, for the first time, we had a male photographer – Alex Spodyneiko (who also designs the magazine). I’m sure you’ll agree, the photos are absolutely gorgeous.

When I heard about Lianne Bateman’s altruistic offer to donate one of her kidneys to someone she barely knew, I was blown away and knew that this story had to be told.

Further research quickly showed that whilst the number of organ and tissue donors has increased over the past five years, it still doesn’t cover what’s actually needed – have a read of the article Organ Donation to find out what’s required to become a donor in New Zealand.

In this issue, my husband, Mark, and I managed to get some time away and headed off to Rotorua for a few days of fun and adventure. Like most tourism destinations throughout the country they desperately need more visitors so I encourage you to spend a few nights there – it never disappoints.

Snuggle up with a cuppa, keep warm and enjoy the read.

Image by Vanessa Laval-Glad Hair and makeup by Sharyn Butters Clothes by Anna Stretton

With gratitude,

focus

Dee

LIFESTY LE AND BUSINE INSPIRE. SS MAGAZ EMPOW INE. ER. MO TIVATE .

ISSUE

28 | JUNE

- JULY

2021

Editor & Founder

BE PART OF WHER E THE WO RLD IS G OING dee@focusmagazine.co.nz

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focus | OUT & ABOUT

ANDALOU NATURALS LAUNCH Originating in California, Andalou Naturals is known as America’s #1 Selling Natural Skincare Brand. It takes bioactive fruit stem cells from fruits and plants and blends them into highly effective formulas that target specific skincare needs.

Tauranga-based journalists and influencers celebrated its New Zealand launch with a beautiful breakfast at Bluebiyou in Papamoa.

Images MIX MARKETING 1. Annemarie Quill and Olivia Fairhurst 2. Kseniia Spodyneiko 3. Amy Kluit, Heidi Rawstorn and Makaia Carr 4. Charlie De Hass, Zarnia Oldham, Stephanie Peeni and Jess Blair 5. Clare Murray, Taryn Kimberley and Olivia Fairhurst 6. Laura Rasmussen

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OUT & ABOUT | focus

1. Frank Hekker, Tim Taylor and Conor Quinn 2. Ardell Unsworth and Tako Ino 3. Matt Cowley and Geoff Williamson 4. Steve Smith and Geoffrey Campbell

TAURANGA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BA5 NETWORKING FUNCTION 1

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Exceed – experts in the care and repair of windows and doors and installation of security hardware – hosted a BA5 event where visitors learned about their work alongside St John and the formation of The Heartbox NZ, a charitable Trust that’s implementing a plan to have a defibrillator accessible 24/7 within four minutes of every New Zealander.

Images VANESSA LAVAL-GLAD

THE OPEN ROAD BECKONS. Discover a driving experience that is all about going the long way round.

Visit Coombes Johnston BMW Tauranga to find out more.

Coombes Johnston BMW Tauranga, 113 Hewletts Road, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga. (07) 575 5280 www.coombesjohnstonbmwtauranga.co.nz

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focus | WHAT'S ON?

WHAT'S ON? JUNE-JULY 2021 MUSICAL FEAST 10 June Waikato Museum, Hamilton waikatomuseum.co.nz Support young talent and listen to the top musicians from The University of Waikato Conservatorium of Music at this free event.

SERIOUSLY GOOD FOOD SHOW 5-6 June Trustpower Baypark Arena, Mt Maunganui seriouslygoodfoodshow.co.nz Celebrate all things food and beverage with over 150 producers from all over the country. Special deals, endless samples and new launches are waiting for you.

TAURANGA SINGLES NIGHT 6 June World’s End Bar & Restaurant, Tauranga aucklandsingles.co.nz Auckland’s biggest event for singles over 40 is coming to Tauranga! Mix and mingle, dance and have fun in a safe and friendly environment.

HOME CHEESE-MAKING CLASS 12 June Carolie’s Culinaire, Tauranga facebook.com/carolie.dekoster Learn how to make Ricotta, Mozzarella, Halloumi and Feta and enjoy cheesecake and snacks with your morning tea. You’ll leave with new knowledge and a recipe booklet for your future experiments.

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WHAT'S ON? | focus

LEADERS’ SUMMIT: IT’S TIME TO TALK ABOUT SEXUAL HARM AT WORK 14 June The Atrium at Wintec, Hamilton tautokomai.co.nz Come and hear eight high-powered women talking about their experiences and possible solutions for sexual harm at work. Learn how to address issues early and treat people with dignity and respect. The event is hosted by Alison (Ali) Mau, an editor of the #MetooNZ movement, and includes morning and afternoon tea and lunch.

MALCOLM FLOWERS INSURANCES TAUPŌ WINTER FESTIVAL 9-25 July Tongariro North Domain, Taupō taupowinterfestival.co.nz Two weeks of fun events for all ages – Taupō in winter is the place to be! Visit the Mercury Light Hub and Rapids Jet Ice Slide, enjoy DPA Dinner on the Domain or Cheal Degustation Dinner, build Taupō Creative Igloos, watch Harcourts Theatre Show and more.

COSTUMIERS FANTASY MASQUERADE BALL 16-17 July Millenium Hotel, Rotorua cnzwildadventures.com Two evenings of costumes, music, food and drinks. What will it be – Neptune's underwater world around the enclosed heated thermal pool on Friday, or a fantasy world where goblin meets girl and princess meets beast on Saturday?

HEALTH & WELLBEING SEMINAR 31 July Classic Flyers, Tauranga focusmagazine.co.nz/ healthandwellbeingseminar Local health experts will share their nutrition, mindfulness and fitness tips and advice with you. Explore healing and fulfilling practises and amazing products to support you on your health journey.

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focus | BOOKS

NEW TITLES Words DEE COLLINS

OTHER PEOPLE’S HOUSES Kelli Hawkins A decade after her son died, Kate spends her weekends hungover and attending open homes on Sydney’s North Shore.

When she visits the Harding house, she becomes obsessed with the seemingly perfect owners – the good looking husband, the beautiful wife and the son. As her obsession with the family escalates, Kate makes choices and decisions that put her in danger.

A great weekend read with interesting twists – you won’t be able to put the book down until you find out how it ends.

WORKING BACKWARDS: INSIGHTS, STORIES, AND SECRETS FROM INSIDE AMAZON Colin Bryar and Bill Carr Bryar and Carr were top-level executives at Amazon and although they left the company many years ago, they believe the culture, leadership, processes and principles at Amazon provide valuable lessons to all companies and business owners.

The book covers Amazon’s fourteen leadership principles, the bar-raiser hiring process as well as customer obsession, long-term thinking and operational excellence.

THE ROSE CODE Kate Quinn

ALLERGIC TO PERFECT Natalie Tolhopf

During World War II, three very different women answer the call to Bletchley Park, a top-secret government establishment situated in a stately home, where the best minds in Britain work to break German military codes.

As the royal wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten whips post-war Britain into a fever, the three friendsturned-enemies are reunited by a mysterious encrypted letter – the key to which lies buried in the long-ago betrayal that destroyed their friendship and left one of them confined to an asylum.

An intriguing and inspiring story based on true events and characters that had me glued to it from start to finish.

Business coach Natalie Tolhopf knows that so many women are held back by self-sabotaging habits, limiting beliefs, selfdoubt, overwhelm and comparison-itis with other people’s unrealistic social media pages.

Natalie gives an honest account of her two failed businesses, burn out and waking up with Bell’s Palsy, which temporarily paralysed one side of her face. She emerged the other side with a successful six-figure business and learned that addiction to perfection is often what holds us back from thriving and running a successful business.

Natalie’s book resonated with me on so many levels.

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BOOKS | focus

THE KETO CHEF’S KITCHEN Nerys Whelan

HORMONE REPAIR MANUAL Lara Briden

Kiwi chef Nerys Whelan lives a keto lifestyle and her debut hardcover cookbook includes recipes with the everyday person in mind. The book is filled with a variety of delicious ketogenic, low-carb, sugar-free and gluten-free recipes and includes an introduction to ketogenic living, making keto more affordable and a section on sweeteners.

There’s also a range of vegetarian and vegan recipes and, as Nerys has a sweet tooth, there’s a healthy section of sweet treats.

Christchurch-based naturopath Lara Briden has more than 20 years’ experience in women’s health, and in her latest book she addresses the stigma of perimenopause and menopause and shows that many symptoms are temporary and manageable. She offers real-world, evidence-based research for practical solutions to lifestyle and diet and addresses common symptoms such as hot flushes, insomnia, mood changes, low libido, migraines and weight gain.

I LOVE MONDAYS: A GUIDE TO FINDING JOY IN YOUR WORK Jess Stuart

MY DARLING LEMON THYME: EVERY DAY Emma Galloway

In her latest book Wellington-based Jess Stuart offers practical wisdom from her own and others’ journeys on how to get a job you love or, to love the job you already have. Jess wants you to experience what it feels like to jump out of bed on a Monday morning feeling enthusiastic and knowing you make a difference.

Jess covers the art of work-life balance, the joy of finding meaning and purpose in your work, and finding a company where your values are aligned and you get the opportunity to use your strengths and grow. She also reminds the reader that no experience is ever wasted and gives tips on deciding whether to leave a company or stay.

Emma Galloway’s third cookbook is brimming with over 100 delicious, gluten-free vegetarian recipes. There are a number of steps in many of the recipes but they are so worth it – particularly the two that I have already made – Harissa + lemon cauliflower + quinoa + coriander sauce and the Spiced pumpkin snacking cake.

Emma includes ‘anything’ recipes, which are useful for any fruit or vegies you might have to hand, and a section on making tea infusions which, as an avid tea drinker, I will definitely be trying. 

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focus | ASK THE EXPERTS

ASK THE EXPERTS HOW CAN BOWEN THERAPY HELP ME?

KAREN SINCLAIR facebook.com/skinresultsltd

SKIN EXFOLIATION – TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING? Exfoliators can be a good way to shed dead skin cells to reveal radiant skin underneath, but by removing the upper top layer of the skin – the stratum corneum – you are breaking the naturally functional barrier that protects your skin from harmful agents such as bacteria, fungi and chemicals while preventing the loss of fluids (hydration and moisture).

Although exfoliators and exfoliation treatments do give instant smoothness to the skin, removing this protective layer on a regular basis can affect its health. Often, with overuse of exfoliants, the skin takes on a wax-like texture, which might look healthy for a while but is, in fact, exposing the skin underneath resulting in premature ageing.

Contrary to what some people believe, exfoliators aren’t always the correct approach for oily/combination skins, rosacea, acne, pigmentation, sensitive or dry skin, or sun damaged skin and overuse can result in your skin becoming irritated and inflamed, with breakouts happening more often. Remember, your skin is a live organ and we need to respect its integrity and function a whole lot more than many of us are currently doing.

However, there are many other treatments and skin ingredients that can provide excellent results and smoothness to the skin surface without compromising the skin’s health e.g. enzymes, Oxy Hydra Jet-Peel, Vitamin A, antioxidants, FaceDR facials, peels etc.

At Skin Results, I offer professional one-on-one consultations and treatments for all your skin needs.

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Did you know that we are an electrical current? Every cell within our body should have a 70-90 millivolt charge in its membrane, but sometimes this frequency can be thrown out of kilter by factors such as nutritional imbalance, which can result in incorrect pH levels.

Forcing the body to heal via physical force or manipulation can, in some cases, cause the body to ‘freeze’ in place. This has the potential to turn the muscles ‘off’ but a Bowen treatment can reverse this and gently reset the body.

Bowen therapy is a form of bodywork that involves gently stretching the fascia (the soft tissue that covers all muscles and organs) which, in turn, stimulates the nervous system and reduces pain. It also addresses the importance of your cell charge and the quality of nutrients you ingest.

In my Bowen therapy treatments, I look at issues that are commonly missed in health protocols. Firstly, your cell charge – cells make up and operate your muscles, organs and systems, and need to function at optimum frequency.

A Bowen bodywork treatment will help get you out of the fight or flight response and initiate healing. And then there’s the use of quality organic and ionically charged nutrients. So, it’s not just ONE thing that will reset and return your body to wellness.

Practising since 1999, I can help review your health and work with you on a wellness protocol.

TRACEY STEELE purehealthnz.com

IMPLANT-BASED DENTURES: HOLD ON TIGHTLY! You know about dental implants as an option to replace one or multiple teeth. But what if you have already ’graduated’ to needing more than that? What if you are a candidate for dentures, or already have dentures and are not happy with how they perform?

Many patients are frustrated with loose-fitting dentures: slurred speech, dentures clicking or slipping out while you talk are common embarrassments. Also, eating certain foods becomes a problem. Even well-fitted dentures are likely to become loose over time because of bone loss in the jaw. Not only does this make regular refits necessary, it can also alter the way your face looks by giving it a sunken, hollow appearance.

A modern solution to these common problems is implant-based dentures. Unlike traditional dentures which rest for support on the gum ridges, implant-based dentures are supported by a few strategically placed implants, or artificial roots. The denture fits over these implants and firmly connects to them, but is removable so is easy to clean and also easy to keep the gums healthy.

Implant-supported dentures can be designed to replace lost jawbone tissue. In other words, in addition to fixing functional problems they can fill in the face and restore aesthetic harmony.

At ER Dental we use minimally invasive, guided implant surgery. If you are about to get new dentures or are considering upgrading your existing ones, talk to us to find out whether you are a candidate for implant-based dentures.

www.scillachocolates.co.nz Phone 0800 724 552 info@scillachocolates.co.nz

YOUR DENTISTS WITH A DIFFERENCE erdental.co.nz

focus | BEAUTY

Beauty from within LET YOUR SKIN GLOW, YOUR HAIR GROW AND YOUR BODY HEAL WITH THESE NATURAL, NUTRIENT-RICH DAILY SUPPLEMENTS.

HAIR, SKIN & NAIL BEAUTY GUMMIES, RADIANCE $23.99

WELLNESS BLEND, SUPER ME $52

One delicious 99% sugar-free gummie a day improves keratin production for strong, healthy hair and nails and rejuvenated skin.

Now, how do you stop at one?

Imagine a plate of 20 superfoods, plus hemp protein, plus mushrooms, plus probiotics…

Looks too massive and too, uh, unappetising to eat? But our skin needs probiotics to restore its microflora, improve immunity and strengthen its protective barrier. As well, Reishi mushrooms hydrate, fight the signs of ageing and get rid of redness and fine lines, and hemp protein stimulates cell renewal. Drink a Super Me smoothie daily – and the problem is solved!

PREMIUM UNFLAVOURED MARINE COLLAGEN, BE BARE $68 From our 20s, our body produces less and less collagen every year. Being the main ‘building block’ in our skin, hair and nails, it’s absolutely essential we assist our body in replenishing its collagen levels. Just two spoons of sustainablysourced, tasteless and odourless Be Bare collagen in your water, smoothie or coffee daily, and you’re glowing in no time!

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LEMON DETOX POWDER, FLORRIE $39.95 What’s the first step of every health and beauty journey? Getting rid of all the yuck in your body, so you can start afresh. This gentle drink with lemon, green tea, dandelion, ginger, celery and Banaba supports your liver and kidneys to flush those nasty toxins away, reduces bloating and helps balance blood sugar levels.

PROTEIN PEA ISOLATE, THE WOMEN’S PROTEIN CO. $49.95 Hand-crafted in New Zealand from high-quality European Golden Pea with added green tea and green coffee bean extracts, this protein is a great way to add more nutrients into your daily diet, boost your metabolism and lose fat without losing muscle.

Available at florrie.co.nz.

KAVA DAY & KAVA NIGHT, VIKTUAL+ $69.99 each Viktual+ is the only wellbeing supplement that combines ancient Māori and Pasifika wisdom and the purest ingredients from New Zealand with science. Kava Day and Kava Night are best used together as support in times of stress. Our body requires more B vitamins and minerals when under stress, and Kākāriki Super Greens and B vitamins in Kava Day will provide that.

Additional herbal support from valerian and hops in Kava Night will improve your sleep and help you rest.

CLEAR SKIN, RADIANCE $27.99 Just like our eyes are the mirror of the soul, our skin is the mirror of everything good and bad that’s happening inside our bodies. It’s only logical then to treat blemishes and other skin imperfections from the inside. The capsules’ therapeutic formula of nutrients and vitamins supports blood cleansing and body detox and helps achieve and maintain clear skin.

focus | STYLE

Minnie Mouse Crossbody Bag PARADISO CLOTHING $133.00

SLIP IN

SAD TO SEE YOUR SUMMER CLOTHES PACKED AWAY? HERE’S AN IDEA – KEEP THE SLIP DRESS AND LAYER IT WITH A TURTLENECK AND A COSY CARDI TO FACE THE WINTER CHILLS IN STYLE.

Circle Drop Perspex Earrings DEVISE $45.00

Chunky Rib Pom Beanie H&H $15.00

Sabrina Box Clutch FROM ST XAVIER $193.00

Leather Biker Jacket WITCHERY $549.90 Bungy Bomber Jacket LEO+BE $199.00

Slide Dress MOOCHI $289.99

London Leather Gloves WITCHERY $149.90

Upright Top KETZ-KE $139.00

Composure Cardigan KOWTOW $249.00

Tan Leather Ankle Boot MAVIS & MICK $349.00 Black Leather Ankle Boot MAVIS & MICK $475.00

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LIFE 16

SARAH LAURIE CURING ANXIETY WITH CORRECT BREATHING

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MILA ARENA

FROM VEGAN LIFESTYLE TO NATIONWIDE SUCCESS STORY

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KIDNEY SISTERS LIANNE BATEMAN DONATES HER KIDNEY

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ARTHRITIS AND YOUR PET, ROTORUA FOR COUPLES, WINTER COMFORTING RECIPES, DRY JULY MOCKTAILS

focus | HEALTH

Take a breath,

NEW ZEALAND! WELLNESS EXPERT SARAH LAURIE IS CONVINCED THAT CORRECT BREATHING IS THE BEST CURE FOR THE WORLD’S FASTEST GROWING MENTAL HEALTH ISSUE – ANXIETY. SCIENCE BACKS HER UP! Words KSENIIA SPODYNEIKO

2015 was a pivotal year for Sarah Laurie. After 15 years as a wellness expert and speaker, she was confronted by the shocking mental health statistics in the law sector when participating in a law conference. She took a break from her career and contacted scientists, cell biologists and breathing physicians from around the world to further study the reason behind the issue.

“Very quickly my lens widened to include the farming sector, construction, health… Before long, it became evident that anxiety does not discriminate. We were facing a ‘human’ challenge, not an industry one,” says Sarah.

Her team of experts realised that the 21st century pace and pressure has shifted our breathing from the tummy to the chest, which makes us take too many breaths, which, in turn, leads to increased anxiety and stress.

Stress response causes very specific changes in our body: our heart rate and blood pressure increase, our attention narrows in order to focus only on the danger, we become defensive and cautious, while our problem solving, critical thinking and decision making dial down.

This was intended by nature as a momentary response to danger, e.g. when we’re in an accident or experience a trauma.

The problem is that the vastly increased pressure of life is recognised by our brain as a constant danger, so our breathing is now in our chest almost all of the time.

Hard to believe that? Do a quick check right now: place one hand on your chest and the other on your tummy. Take a breath and see which hand moves. It should be the one on your tummy! If it’s not, this is the first and simplest indicator you should be paying more attention to your breathing.

“Your lungs hang down – like rugby socks – as low as the tummy area, which is how the phrase ‘tummy breathing’ was coined – when you fill your lungs, your tummy should rise,” explains Sarah.

Even if escaping into the woods and ditching the stressful environment of modern life forever wasn’t an almost impossible scenario, it would hardly have helped. “Our brain seeks patterns and automates them. So, over time our breathing patterns have reset and we now breathe into our chest automatically and unconsciously.”

In 2019, after four years of research and experiment, Take a Breath was born. It’s an app and a website focused on assisting

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HEALTH | focus

RESET YOUR BREATHING PATTERNS: 1.

Breathe into your tummy 10 times before you get out of bed in the morning. people in breathing well, the way we were designed to. "I’m not a tech person, so initially I resisted the idea of an app. I wanted to create a TV documentary or write a book,” laughs Laurie.

“However, I always wanted to create something that would help many, many people and quickly. So, an app it became…”

Take a Breath is more than just beautifully designed breathing instructions. It also contains a lot of utterly fascinating facts and explanations on what is actually happening in our brain and body at any given time. The response to the app has been phenomenal!

In fact, to expand on this initial interest, Sarah Laurie and her team created a 7-Day Take a Breath challenge that guides you through reworking your breathing patterns. After seven days, 76% of people reported improved sleep, 96% of people reported feeling calmer and 82% of people reported increased energy.

The team now also has a 12-month programme for businesses with a robust schedule, several behaviour change activations, and built-in touch points to measure progress – everything that makes Take a Breath’s impact more visible to people’s daily lives. The unexpected bonus? For every business enrolled, one school gets the same programme for free!

“It feels as though we are creating a new health matrix – a new era of wellbeing – and it’s pretty game-changing.” 

2.

Set up a reminder to check your breathing every 30 minutes. There’s no need to stop what you’re doing –simply breathe into your tummy whenever you get a reminder!

3.

Breathe into your tummy 10 times as you go to sleep at night.

SARAH LAURIE RECOMMENDS ‘Take a Breath’ app (available in the App Store and Google Playstore)

Breath, James Nestor

How to Take a Breath, Tania Clifton-Smith

Bradcliff Breathing Method (bradcliff.com) focusmagazine.co.nz

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focus | COVER STORY

MILA ARENA FROM VEGAN LIFESTYLE TO NATIONWIDE SUCCESS STORY

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COVER STORY | focus

ARGENTINA’S EXPORT MILA ARENA IS NOT YOUR TYPICAL ENTREPRENEUR. SHE REJECTS PLANS AND BUDGETS AND, INSTEAD, RUNS V ON WHEELS – THE FIRST VEGAN DELIVERY BUSINESS IN NEW ZEALAND – JUST THE WAY SHE MANAGES HER OWN NUTRITION: INTUITIVELY AND EMOTIONALLY.

WORDS: KSENIIA SPODYNEIKO IMAGES: ALEX SPODYNEIKO HAIR AND MAKEUP: LAURA LEMOS STYLE: DOMINIQUE ROJO VIVOT

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focus | COVER STORY

An interview at a randomly chosen cafe in Downtown Tauranga turns into a spontaneous social gathering as soon as Mila enters. People peacefully brunching are suddenly waving their hellos, hugging and exchanging news with the newcomer.

Bringing smiles and making friends wherever she goes comes naturally to Mila. She grew up in Mendoza – a vibrant, lively city in Argentina, known for its sunny climate, great wine and world-class restaurants, and where friends are family and BBQs and parties are just as much a part of daily life as brushing your teeth.

“Our door was always open; we always had guests,” remembers Mila. “Mi casa es su casa, as we say – my house is your house.”

And, of course, good hosts will never let their guests leave without a week’s worth of food in their bellies. South American cuisine relies heavily on meat dishes. Some of the dishes always available at Mila’s family house were Milanesa (fried beef in breadcrumbs) and empanadas (pastry turnover filled with beef). Whatever the dish, it was always cooked from scratch and usually accompanied by maté – a traditional South American caffeine-rich tea.

Now vegan for five years (and vegetarian for ten), Mila laughs: “I can’t believe how different my upbringing was from how I eat now. It was very traditional, or, I guess you could say, ‘old-fashioned’. A dinner without meat?

That was never an option!”

Mila might not share her vegan lifestyle with her family but the joy of cooking and eating delicious meals is something they’ll always have in common. “I’m aware that chicken breast with steamed broccoli might be lower in calories than my pumpkin lasagna, but can you really enjoy it?

At some stage, we lost the joy of food in favour of its healthiness. That’s not how I roll. I don’t use the health meter.

Yes, a balanced diet can be the best medicine. It can energise us or help us sleep better. It can have all sorts of benefits. But in my opinion, food’s main goal is to bring us happiness!”

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COVER STORY | focus

HEALTH SCARE AND THE ROAD TO NEW ZEALAND As we talk about Argentina, it’s obvious Mila has warm memories about her home country. What made her move to New Zealand? “I think that travel gene was always inside me, sleeping, waiting. It just wasn’t something people around me did.

Gap year, full-time traveling – it was a relatively new thing for that time.”

It wasn’t until her first serious relationship that the ideas started to float. Both graphic designers, Mila and her partner at that time could easily explore the world while working remotely. They had their eye on Australia and everything looked peachy: “We started learning English, preparing the documents for our visas. We even decided to get married! It was such an easy decision – somewhere between breakfast and lunch, one of us said, ‘listen, we’re going abroad, why don’t we get married and throw a big farewell party for our families and friends?’”

However, the Universe had other plans for the happy young woman with big dreams.

“I was 25 and I thought it was just another routine check with my gynaecologist.” Mila suddenly straightens up and the ever-present smile slips off her face. “My doctor wasn’t very sensitive or caring towards me. She just said, ‘They’ve found some abnormal cells. I’ll refer you to a surgery because you’ve got cancer’, like it was nothing. I was in shock. I just went home and cried myself to sleep. I

thought I was going to die.”

As it turned out, it wasn't cancer but precancerous cervical cells, which can lead to cancer if left untreated.

The next three years became the most challenging in her life. “I was in a constant state of panic and anxiety. I can’t even describe the emotional and psychological damage of signing the pre-surgery papers that state the hospital is not responsible for the possibility of infertility or other consequenses that might be caused by the surgery.”

Unfortunately, the abnormal cells returned a year after the first surgery.

“And the only solution they could offer me was another surgery. And then possibly another one. And so on, until they would have to remove the organs entirely.”

Ongoing health issues made Mila think about the true purpose of her life.

She realised she wasn't living the way she really wanted. “This time I was better prepared mentally. I said to myself: there must be another way! Instead of following everyone’s instructions that lead me nowhere, I started doing things that felt good, something of my own choice.”

She wanted to travel, wanted to follow her passion and desires. She called off the wedding two weeks before the date. “Everything was already paid for. I had a beautiful dress waiting for me. My aunties and grannies, who live 10 hours away from Mendoza, had their suitcases packed and tickets at the ready. It was hard. I felt disappointed in myself because I had really hurt someone I loved.”

For the next two years, Mila ventured on her own journey to health: “Healers, propolis, breathing techniques, jumping on one leg, saying hello to the moon every morning – you name it, I tried it!”

She even moved out of home – to a hippy community in South Argentina where she could surround herself with nature and people more connected with their soul and intuition.

There, Mila turned to intuitive eating – consuming food only when she was hungry and only the foods her body really wanted. She quickly realised meat was now rarely on her plate, though she was still a long way off making a conscious decision to become vegan.

She read a lot of books about the human body – how it reacts to what we eat, our physical activities, the kind of people we communicate with. “I was so excited; the reason behind my illness was finally making sense. Nutrition became a really important part of my life. You can see why, after this experience, I have such a strong passion for clean, nurturing food!”

Somewhere along that journey, Mila heard from a friend that a trip to New Zealand literally reset her life. “I want that!” was her first thought. So, she applied for a work holiday visa and boarded the plane. “I had no idea what New Zealand looked like, just that it had two main islands. But that’s me in a nutshell – being spontaneous, never prepared, acting without a plan. Just doing it!”

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She stayed in Auckland for one night and then moved to Tauranga. And while she was travelling around, getting to know the beautiful country, Tauranga remained the base she would always return to. That was nine years ago and Mila has never regretted her choice.

She also continued to explore various healing techniques and learn more about the vegan lifestyle and its health benefits.

Seven years ago she finally got the all clear on her condition and not even once have any abnormal cells made themselves known again.

V ON WHEELS IS BORN It seems that all the groundbreaking events in Mila’s life have led, in some way, to her launching V on Wheels. The health scare opened up the world of veganism to her, a chat with a friend planted the seed of moving to New Zealand.

And it wasn’t until she broke up with her Kiwi-German boyfriend that she finally found the courage to turn her life-long passion for food and cooking into a business. “I believe that sometimes you have to hit rock bottom to start climbing back up. I was a vegetarian, cooking chicken and bacon as a chef. My relationships weren't working as well... so, I collected what little money I had and went to Bali in the hope of reconnecting with myself and my purpose.”

There she met Javiera Correa – a life coach who pointed out the career opportunity Mila wasn’t brave enough to acknowledge herself. “I had thought of something like this before. At the restaurant where I was working, my colleague’s partner was cooking pasta at home and selling it to local restaurants. That ignited something in me but my colleague discouraged me, saying the money was really bad and I wouldn’t be able to do it without a second job. So, I forgot about the idea of running a business from my own kitchen until I met Javiera.

Lesson learned – if you really want something, never let the doubts of others scare you away!”

The trip left Mila with $300 in her bank account and tonnes of new-found enthusiasm. “It was time to do things my way once again!”

She moved in with her friend Pocha and started cooking for her flatmates and friends. Before long, people outside her social circle started buying meals as well. “It was just 1-2 meals per week but that was all I needed. That gave me the courage,

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the motivation to do what I was always supposed to do.”

Her graphic design experience came in really handy as well – she created her own logo, website, Facebook page and packaging. “I always thought that you couldn’t start a business without a loan and thousands of dollars… But all I really needed was to believe in myself and get a licence from the Council. I had no plans, no budgets or deadlines. My only mission was to start and see how it goes.”

The most interesting part of her growth was the constant stripping of all the extras and nasties in her meals. The motto of V on Wheels is ‘Clean food – cleaner conscience’ and it took a while to get there.

“Just like everything in my life, V on Wheels changed organically alongside me. I was vegetarian when I started it, so I was cooking without meat. I then became vegan and so did V on Wheels. Then I started incorporating the sustainable aspect – getting rid of plastic packaging. We were no longer polluting the environment, but I felt we were still polluting bodies, so I ditched all the processed ingredients – anything that comes in a jar. Instead of using a store-bought curry paste, with ten lines of ingredients I can’t even pronounce, for example, I started making my own. The same goes for broths, and so on.”

But the most unusual change happened when Mila received an email from a doctor who was following her online. She explained that the oil Mila was using in her recipes was also a processed ingredient. Ever curious about everything health related, Mila explored the topic and came to a decision to go oil free. “I can easily cook with a broth, or even water, and the taste will be the same! Simply reducing, or avoiding, something of little importance added extra value to what I do.”

Oil-free meals are not something you often see, so Mila didn’t expect the huge number of grateful messages she received from people with allergies and intolerances.

Today the colourful packs of V on Wheels’ paella, lasagne and curry can be found in numerous health stores and her website offers nationwide delivery, but the woman behind the brand is still questioning her business decisions: “Sometimes I ask myself why it took so long to get where I am now. But I realise I operate intuitively rather than on a ‘profit and loss’ model – when I no longer have time to deliver every order myself, I hire a delivery company; when my back hurts from too much cooking, I hire another chef. I make my current system last until I can’t postpone the change any longer. Maybe if I was a numbers person my business would’ve been much bigger by now, but I have to remind myself how much I grew in the process, and I did it while being happy and excited. Who cares about the what-ifs? This is my reality and I love it!”

Mila is never shy talking about her own doubts or mistakes if that can give at least one other person the courage to turn their own passion into a business despite the lack of knowledge or money.

She is that kind of human being who always puts others before herself. “If someone really likes my cooking but can’t pay for it right now, or lives too far away and can’t pick it up – I always try to help!” She also supports Tauranga charity Under the Stars, which feeds homeless people. 

HEALTH & WELLBEING SEMINAR Shake off the winter blues this July with a great group of likeminded women at our Health & Wellbeing seminar. focus is bringing together a group of inspiring female entrepreneurs who will share their wisdom, advice and the results of their work. Learn about the latest trends, viewpoints and developments on a range of topics within the health and wellbeing industry.

If nurturing your mind and body sounds like your kind of day, then sign up today. Spaces are limited.

By the way, the first 10 women to book a spot will receive an impressive goodie bag with everything you’ll need to kickstart a journey to a healthier and happier you.

CLASSIC FLYERS

Saturday, 31st July 2021

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FOCUSMAGAZINE.CO.NZ/HEALTHANDWELLBEINGSEMINAR

EARLY BIRD: $55 STANDARD RATE: $70

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Our place is open to you.

1 bedroom, ensuite, lounge, dining & kitchenette. For those needing a higher level of support we offer tailor made client solutions and support packages.

With only 14 serviced apartments, enjoy a smaller more personal and intimate setting.

Residents also enjoy all the facilities and activities the village has to offer.

OPEN DAILY: Monday – Friday: 9am-5pm Saturday – Sunday: 10am-4pm

For more info contact Claire Keen on 07 543 4008 or 021 061 7247 9 Grantston Drive, Pyes Pa, Tga www.althorpvillage.co.nz

AVAILABLE NOW!

focus | HEALTH

REMEMBER THE SCIENCE OF MEMORY AND THE ART OF FORGETTING

HAVE YOU EVER PANICKED WHEN YOU WALK INTO A ROOM ONLY TO FORGET WHY YOU WENT THERE IN THE FIRST PLACE? HAVE YOU EVER WORRIED THAT LAPSES IN YOUR MEMORY MIGHT BE SOMETHING MORE SINISTER? IN REMEMBER , NEUROSCIENTIST AND ACCLAIMED NOVELIST LISA GENOVA DELVES INTO HOW MEMORIES ARE MADE, HOW WE RETRIEVE THEM AND HOW MEMORY IS PROFOUNDLY IMPACTED BY MEANING, EMOTION, SLEEP, STRESS, AND CONTEXT.

As both a neuroscientist and the author of Still Alice, I’ve been talking to audiences around the world about Alzheimer’s and memory for over a decade. Without exception, after every speech, people express their personal concerns about memory and forgetting.

Many have a parent, grandparent, or spouse who had or has dementia.

They’ve witnessed the devastation and the heartache caused by profound memory loss. When these folks can’t remember their Netflix password or the name of that movie starring Tina Fey, they worry that these failures might be early signs that they too are succumbing to inevitable disease.

Our fears around forgetting aren’t only about a dread of aging or Alzheimer’s, they’re also about losing any of our memory’s capacity

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and capability. Because memory is so central to our functioning and identity, if you start becoming forgetful, if you begin forgetting words and start losing keys and glasses and your phone, the fear is this: I might lose myself. And that’s justifiably terrifying.

It’s important for us to realise that while most of us paint forgetting as our mortal adversary, it isn’t always an obstacle to overcome.

Effective remembering often requires forgetting. And just because memory sometimes fails doesn’t mean it’s in any way broken. While admittedly frustrating, forgetting is a normal part of being human. By understanding how memory functions, we can take these inconvenient gaffes in stride.

We can also learn to prevent episodes of forgetting by eliminating or artfully

navigating around common errors and bad assumptions.

When I explain to folks why they forget names, where they parked their car, and whether they already took their vitamin today, when I describe how memory is created and retrieved and why we forget – not as a result of disease pathology but because of the way our brains have evolved – I hear them exhale. Their faces look relieved and grateful, changed by this information. They leave me unafraid, holding a new relationship with their memory. They are empowered.

Once we understand memory and become familiar with how it functions, its incredible strengths and maddening weaknesses, its natural vulnerabilities and potential superpowers, we can both vastly improve our ability to

HEALTH | focus

remember and feel less rattled when we inevitably forget.

We don’t have to fear it anymore. And that can be life changing. There is a reason you remember the words to every Beatles song and forget most of your own life; or you remember the Hamlet soliloquy you learned in tenth grade, but forget what your husband told you he wanted from the store five minutes ago. Remembering pervades and facilitates everything we do. As does forgetting.

Forgetting is actually quite important and helps us function every day in all kinds of ways. It’s advantageous for us to get rid of any unnecessary, irrelevant, interfering, or even painful memories that can potentially distract us, cause us to make mistakes, or feel miserable.

Forgetting one thing is sometimes necessary so that we can pay attention to and remember another, and so in this way, forgetting can actually facilitate better memory.

We also tend to think of forgetting as our default setting.

Unless you actively do something to remember some piece of information, your brain will automatically forget it. Easily.

And if you’re over 50, too easily.

We forget without trying. We forget what that woman just said because we didn’t pay enough attention. We forget to pick up the dry cleaning because we didn’t create strong enough relevant cues. We can’t recall what we learned about the Industrial Revolution in eleventh grade because too much time has elapsed without periodic recall.

An intelligent memory system not only remembers information, it actively forgets whatever is no longer useful.

Not long ago I drove to Kendall Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and parked my car in a garage. I checked the time and knew I had to hurry. I was scheduled to give a talk a couple of blocks away in a few minutes. Normally I take a photo of the floor number or row letter as a record of my car’s location whenever I park in a garage, but worried I was going to be late, I raced out of there as fast as I could in heels without taking a photo of my space, and without consciously registering where I parked. I arrived on time, gave my talk, answered questions, and signed books.

When I returned to the garage, I walked to where I thought I’d parked, but my car wasn’t there. I paced up and down ramps, becoming increasingly frustrated and hopeless as it remained missing. I walked from level to level, my feet screaming in my heels, sure I’d parked on the fourth floor, but maybe it was the third or the fifth. And did I park in section A, B, or C? No idea. I couldn’t remember. I knew I was in the right garage, but that’s all I had confidence in.

I was just about to report my car stolen when I stumbled upon it exactly where I left it in 4B. Relieved, embarrassed, and sweating, I reflexively wanted to blame that whole maddening experience on my memory, but the neuroscientist in me knew better.

The reason I couldn’t find my car wasn’t because I have a horrible memory, amnesia, dementia, or Alzheimer’s. This wasn’t a case of memory failure at all.

Temporarily losing my car had absolutely nothing to do with my memory. I couldn’t find my car because I never paid attention to where I parked it in the first place.

Above all else, we need to notice what is going on in order for it to be remembered. Noticing requires two things: perception (seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling) and attention. Let’s say you’re standing in front of the glitzy and colossal Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center in New

York City. You take in the visual information – the shape, the size, the colours of the lights – through receptors called rods and cones in the retinas of your eyes. This information is converted into signals that travel to your visual cortex at the back of your brain where the image is processed and actually seen. It can then be further processed in other brain regions for recognition, meaning, comparison, emotion, and opinion. But unless you add your attention to seeing this Christmas tree, the activated neurons will not be linked, and a memory will not be formed. You won’t even remember seeing it. Your memory isn’t a video camera, recording a constant stream of every sight and sound you’re exposed to. You can only capture and retain what you pay attention to. And since you can’t pay attention to everything, you’ll be able to remember some aspects of what is happening before you but not others.

Think back to that first evening of summer on the beach. You remember the s’mores, the Lady Gaga song, and that Suzie Q was stung by a jellyfish. But surely there was more to see, hear, taste, and feel. Another parent might remember hot dogs, beer, mosquitoes, and a seal sighting.

You remember none of that. Your memories of the same evening are vastly different because of what you did and didn’t pay attention to.

Think about the vast amount of information your senses are exposed to in any day. If you’re awake for 16 hours, your senses are open for business without a break for 57,600 seconds. That’s a lot of data. But you simply can’t and won’t remember most of what was available to your eyes, ears, nose, and brain today.

The number one reason for forgetting what she just said, his name, and where you put your phone is lack of attention.

You can’t later remember what is right in front of you if you don’t pay attention to it.

As with brushing your teeth, taking a shower, getting dressed, your morning coffee and your commute – because these experiences are essentially the same day-to-day, we don’t pay attention to them. And because we don’t pay attention to them, we don’t remember them. We tend to pay attention to – and therefore remember – what we find interesting, meaningful, new, surprising, significant, emotional, and consequential.

Our brains capture those details. We ignore, and therefore forget, the rest. 

Extract from Lisa Genova’s latest book, Remember: The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting (Simon & Schuster)

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focus | ADVERTORIAL

FROM THE AGE OF FOUR, CAROL WALKER KNEW SHE WANTED TO BE A HAIRDRESSER AND EAGERLY STARTED AN APPRENTICESHIP AT 15. IT’S BEEN HER PASSION EVER SINCE AND SHE’S ONLY HAD SHORT BREAKS, TO RAISE HER THREE CHILDREN, BUT IT’S ALWAYS DRAWN HER BACK.

CHS Hairdressing 206a Maunganui Road chsnewzealand.co.nz 07 574 0206

It’s only now, after opening CHS Hairdressing (formerly Carol’s Cutting Parlour) 28 years ago, that Carol is hanging up her scissors and letting her long-standing team look after their clientele. And, it’s not because the passion is gone but a realisation that the physical demands on her are taking its toll.

“Hairdressing is incredibly rewarding. You make people feel good about themselves, but it is very hard on your body. Although hairdressing has come a long way since I first qualified, with the introduction of ergonomic chairs and wash basins, scissors and lighter hairdryers, it’s still demanding, both physically and mentally,” says Carol. “I find it harder to hold a comb so I know it’s time to step back and let my team take over.”

Carol emphasises that she isn’t selling the business and will be working in the background to ensure everything continues to run smoothly. She knows that her team is exceptionally capable – after all, many of them have been with her for years – and knows they will support and step in to help each other whenever necessary.

CHS also has a long and very loyal clientele. Carol has clients who came to her for their very first hair cut… they’re still clients and she’s now cutting their children’s hair.

Carol ensured, right from the start, that CHS used only quality products – L’Oreal and Kerastase. The colour table towards the back of the salon gives clients privacy from the

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large sun-filled windows that open onto The Mount’s busy pavement. Special occasions, blonde work and permanent straightening are all specialities at the salon but the team is also kept busy with washing, cuts, blow waves and treatments. Free parking at the rear is an added bonus for her clients.

When asked how hairdressing has changed over the years, Carol says that people don’t get glammed up as much as they used to. “We used to do a lot of updo’s and hair pieces – it was an outing, a weekly ritual for many women to visit their hairdresser, and the feeling of community and opportunity to catch up on the latest gossip was part of the whole experience. Today, people look to social media for their escapism and they don’t need to go out. More than ever, clients are looking for an experience – a special time of pampering, which includes beautiful shampoos and a head massage and, perhaps, a gorgeous hair treatment that gives their hair vitality and shine.”

Carol’s looking forward to spending more time with her nine grandchildren and building a new home but she’s also looking forward to just catching up with clients when they visit the salon.

“Even though I’m stepping back, I’m still 100% vested in the business. I have a great team and am confident that all our clients are in exceptionally good hands.” 

ADVERTORIAL | focus

Jo Douglas THE BETHLEHEM HEALTH SHOP

THE BETHLEHEM HEALTH SHOP IS A UNIQUE SPACE BRIMMING WITH A WIDE RANGE OF HOLISTIC HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE PRODUCTS AND STAFFED

BY AN ENTHUSIASTIC AND KNOWLEDGEABLE TEAM. IT’S OWNED BY JO DOUGLAS, WHO SPECIALISES IN ACUPRESSURE FOOT MASSAGE, FLOWER ESSENCES AND HOMEOPATHY. Jo’s interest in healthcare began when she left school and trained as a Pharmacy Technician. Completing a Diploma in Zen Shiatsu in 2001 was the beginning of a new level of understanding about the influence our mental and emotional wellbeing can have on our health. Starting a family presented her with many opportunities to learn about other alternative and complementary therapies that can support us with health issues, and lead her to also train in massage, reiki and flower essences. Wanting to use natural remedies for her children was how she first became introduced to homeopathy and, after studying, she qualified as a homeopath in 2014.

“I believe that a lot of long-term and chronic health problems occur when we ignore or suppress the messages the body gives us. When we are out of balance on a physical or a mental/emotional level, it’s possible to support the body with natural remedies and lifestyle changes rather than suppressing symptoms with pharmaceutical medications, drugs, alcohol and even food,” says Jo. “If we can learn how to do this from a young age, we can help prevent future generations of adults with long-term and chronic health issues.

My passion for this is what led me to want to own a health shop and I love chatting to customers who need day to day support with their family's health and wellness. I also enjoy sharing knowledge about how to use homeopathy and flower essences at home and I’m starting up the Intro to Homeopathy for Children class again this month.”

Since buying the shop Jo has had many people looking for options for health-related testing and, as a result,

recently added QRA practitioner to her list of qualifications.

Quantum Reflex Analysis (QRA) is an advanced system of kinesiology using the scientifically researched 'Bi-digital O-ring' technique. It is a highly effective way of testing the bio-energetic status of the body's key organs and glands to help gain insight into what the body may need to support healing.

During a QRA session the practitioner tests key acupressure points to determine a weak or strong bio-energetic response. Jo now offers a 45-minute mini QRA session with a focus on energy, stress and digestion.

This includes checking acupressure points for the kidneys, stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder and

adrenals – quickly pinpointing problem areas and determining the precise nutrients needed to restore the ideal cellular resonance for that area. This is a great way to test for vitamin and mineral deficiencies and is a perfect starting point if you haven't seen a practitioner before or are unsure if what you are currently taking is right for you.

The Intro to Homeopathy for Children class will be held on Saturday 27th June from 3pm-5pm at the Bethlehem Health Shop. Bookings are essential.

The Bethlehem Health Shop bethlehemhealth.co.nz 07 5769442

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Lianne Bateman

KIDNEY

SISTERS

BE KIND TO EACH OTHER, WE ARE TOLD. BUT SOME RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS GO WAY BEYOND WHAT WE IMAGINE, LIKE OFFERING A KIDNEY TO A PERSON WHO IS NEITHER A FAMILY MEMBER NOR A CLOSE FRIEND. FIVE YEARS AGO THIS AMAZING ACT OF ALTRUISM OF ONE WOMAN GAVE A NEW LEASE OF LIFE TO ANOTHER. Words MARGARETE KRAEMER Images MARGARETE KRAEMER + SUPPLIED 30 | focusmagazine.co.nz

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M

ocha. It was Lianne Bateman’s morning fix on her way to work, and Frankie Egglestone, a part-time barista at her favourite café, always brewed an excellent one. To Frankie, Lianne was just a person off the street who later became a regular customer she saw a few times a week.

One day in 2013 Lianne noticed a bandage with a cannula sticking out of Frankie’s blouse. Being a dental hygienist her medical curiosity was piqued, and after a while she asked what this was for. Frankie explained that the tube in her chest was a permacath, incidentally adding that she had kidney failure and was on dialysis.

AN ASTOUNDING OFFER A few weeks later their relationship changed in an unexpected way. When Frankie served her a mocha and eggs Benedict, Lianne suddenly blurted out: “What have I got to do to give you a kidney? I have two good ones.” Frankie’s jaw dropped. “I couldn’t believe it. It meant winning a new life to me.”

Frankie, 29 at the time and solo mum to a seven-year-old daughter, was born with one kidney, which failed

when she was five. A year later she received her mother’s kidney. It lasted almost 19 years before it also failed.

For Lianne this spur-of-the-moment offer came as a surprise to herself too. “I hadn’t planned it and hadn’t discussed becoming a live donor with anybody beforehand.” But after she had uttered these words from somewhere deep inside her, they felt totally right.

“All I wanted was for Frankie to live for as long as possible and be able to see her daughter grow up.”

SHATTERED HOPES However, things didn’t pan out initially.

Because of her medical history, doctors had told Frankie that her chances of finding a perfect match were only 10 percent. In the past, nine people had already offered to donate a kidney, but testing revealed none were compatible.

Lianne and Frankie’s crossmatch came back as a no-go too.

Frankie has been in and out of hospital more times than she prefers to remember. For five years her life had been defined by work during the day and haemodialysis in the evenings at home. “But I was getting sicker and sicker.”

THREE YEARS FROM OFFER TO OPERATION With Frankie’s kidney function significantly worsening things started looking bleak. “Without a transplant, I was given between 18 months and two years to live,” Frankie remembers. In November 2015, in a final attempt to find a solution, her nephrologist went back through all her 10 crossmatches and noticed that Lianne’s was the closest. “Her offer still stood, so in March the following year we were re-tested and got the thumbs-up.” But they were not the same blood type, so it was going to be an ‘ABO incompatible’ transplant.

After seemingly endless courses of chemotherapy, plasmapheresis to ensure any remaining antibodies were removed from Frankie’s blood, ongoing dialysis and a final crossmatching, on 5 October 2016 the transplant took place at Auckland Hospital.

DIFFERENT POST-OP DEVELOPMENTS Lianne was in hospital for only three days. “We were technically in different wards, but practically right next

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door. We would meet in the corridor, shuffling along in hospital gowns and dragging our saline drips behind us.” Afterwards she stayed in a nearby hotel for less than a week. Having had surgeries before, she wasn’t particularly anxious. “It was more of an excitement. And with lots of drugs the post-op pain was bearable.” Years on, her remaining kidney has grown slightly in size and works at the capacity of two healthy kidneys.

Frankie’s new kidney had a rough start. “Four months after the transplant I battled major rejection and spent three months in hospital again.” But five years on she feels great. She is on immune suppressants for the rest of her life. “About a handful of pills, both day and night,” she remarks matter-of-factly. Every three months she sees her kidney specialist and has blood tests every month.

A NEW KIDNEY AND A NEW LIFE In 2020 Frankie moved to Auckland to start fresh. Her teenage daughter lives with her dad in Tauranga. Frankie is studying for a Bachelor of Health Science majoring in psychology at Massey University and works as a carer for an 11-year-old autistic boy who is non-verbal. Living on her own as an immune-suppressed person, things are difficult. “Covid has affected my ability to do anything. I have masks and hand sanitiser on me at all times.”

Lianne and Frankie are kidney sisters – a special relationship for life, about giving life without expecting anything in return. “I still get blown away that somebody who was once a regular customer ended up saving my life,” says Frankie. “We have a bond that many people will never understand: she’s like the big sister I never had.” To commemorate the transplant they both got a matching tattoo on their bellies. 

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HEALTH | focus

ORGAN

DONATION

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW There are around 550 people waiting for organ transplants in New Zealand at any time, with the largest transplant waiting list being for kidneys. Receiving a transplant can mean the difference between life and death for some people and an organ or tissue transplant can dramatically improve the quality of life for recipients and their families.

In 2020, thanks to the generosity of 64 deceased organ donors and their families, 186 people were able to receive lifesaving heart, lung, liver, pancreas and kidney transplants.

Many more people received tissue transplants including eye tissue, heart valves and skin from these donors, while a further 87 people received kidneys donated by living donors.

Deceased organ donation is only possible when a person is on a ventilator (breathing machine) in an intensive care unit, usually with devastating brain damage. Fewer than

one percent of all deaths occur in a way where organ donation is possible.

People sometimes say ‘I’m too old to be an organ donor’ or ‘I’m not healthy enough to be a donor’, however this is often not the case. Doctors will always assess the suitability of your organs for transplant at the time of donation and your organs won’t be removed unless they are a suitable match for someone on a transplant waiting list. If for some reason your organs were not suitable, you may still be able to help others by donating tissues: eye tissue (cornea and sclera) helps repair eye damage and restore sight, heart valves help children born with congenital heart conditions and skin (taken from front and back of the legs only) is the preferred dressing for patients with severe burns.

Tissue donation is possible in most circumstances when people die, whether that is at home, in a hospice,

or on a hospital ward.

While the number of organ and tissue donors has been steadily increasing over the last five years, more donors are needed. If you want to be an organ or tissue donor in the event of your death, the most important thing you can do is discuss your wishes with your family, whānau or those people closest to you.

In New Zealand it is possible to tick ‘donor’ when you apply for or renew your driver licence, however this is not an official organ donation register. If you are ever in a situation where donation is possible, doctors will ask your family if they know your wishes and it is your family who fills out the consent form for donation.

This is why it is so important to have a conversation about organ and tissue donation with your family today. 

For more information about deceased organ and tissue donation in New Zealand visit donor.co.nz For information about live kidney donation visit the Ministry of Health website health.govt.nz

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focus | LIFE

Redefining social media

WHO YOU SPEND TIME WITH THE MOST IS WHO YOU WILL BECOME. THE AVERAGE PERSON SPENDS AROUND AN HOUR A DAY ON INSTAGRAM, SO IT MAKES SENSE TO SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVE, UPLIFTING, SELFLOVING PEOPLE ONLINE JUST THE WAY YOU DO OFFLINE.

@allaboutannieblog Our local endo warrior was one of the first endometriosis voices in New Zealand. Unapologetic, loud and confident, Annie quickly gained an audience of women used to suffering quietly and alone, and created a safe space and a supportive community on her account. Her page is full of inspirational quotes, humour and strong language – it’s like an endless besties’ pyjama-party with champagne and no filters here.

@sophia_malthus

@thislifeasjasmin

Would you tandem-jump out of an aeroplane? What about rafting on crazy waves? Ok, here’s an easier one – completely dominating the New Zealand Fashion Week catwalk? Sophia does all that and more in a wheelchair.

At the age of 19 she fell off a horse and broke her neck, but refuses to let that stop her living a fulfilling, exciting life. Sophia hopes she can inspire young girls with disabilities to do the same. Well, she definitely inspires us to do better every day. And it’s impossible not to love her sense of humour.

If you love dancing and prefer videos to photos, you’ll love Jasmin’s account. The avid foodie from Wellington had always been known for her colourful photos of vegan meals and Stories from her scenic morning runs. Recently Jasmin opened up about spending the past five years restricting and controlling her portions behind the scenes and how it affected her physical and mental health. She’s now learning to enjoy her food and appreciate her new body, and invites you on a journey to self-love.

@meganonair

@jessicaemilyquinn

Fashion, colours and cats – that’s a brief description of Megan’s Instagram account. A well-known radio announcer, she admits becoming a body-positive inspiration was never a conscious decision for her; she just started posting photos of herself and her family and people loved her style and confidence. She went through an eating disorder as a teenager and now prefers to live her life happily and freely – something she used to deny herself.

An Auckland-based ray of sunshine went through cancer as a kid and lost a leg. Did it stop her? Hell, no! All grownup, always smiling and confident Jessica is inspiring over 175K followers with her daily reminders that you only see what people choose to show you online, pictures don’t equal real life and you can be healthy and beautiful in any size and shape. She’s advocating for more diversity in advertising and removing heavily photoshopped images off magazine pages.

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Ahu Aromas Firm believers in the power of essential oils and organic plant oils and extracts to promote health and wellbeing, Katie, a qualified Aromatherapist, and Gaylene, with her comprehensive oil knowledge, came together a few years ago to create a range of organic plant-based face, body and aromatherapy products.

Receiving rave reviews, they decided to open a retail oasis – Ahu Aromas – in Waihi Beach where Katie and Gaylene now offer a variety of holistic wellness treatments including body scrubs, mud cocoons, therapeutic baths, foot treatments, aromatherapy and hot stone treatments. There’s also float pod therapy where you can float with zero gravity in a luxurious mineral-rich lagoon float sanctuary. Packages for the ultimate pampering experience for girls’ retreats and small hen’s parties are proving to be very popular.

Ahu means ‘to nurture and treat’ which goes with their philosophy of nurturing your soul, so when people walk into Ahu, they find a relaxing, tranquil and peaceful space.

Expanding their product base further, they have sourced some amazing New Zealand-made products including organic teas, herbal potions, affirmation cards and books, gemstone jewellery and sustainable tropical/beach homeware and a small range of furniture.

VISIT AHUAROMAS.CO.NZ FOR MORE INFORMATION

focus | LIFE

ARTHRITIS

and your pet AS OUR PETS AGE, THEY MAY SUFFER FROM ARTHRITIS. IT CAN BE A PAINFUL CONDITION AND IS USUALLY NOTICEABLE AS A STIFF GAIT FIRST THING IN THE MORNING (OFTEN WORSE IN COLD WEATHER), WHICH IMPROVES WITH EXERCISE OR MOVEMENT. ARTHRITIS IS GENERALLY A PROGRESSIVE CONDITION, BUT WE CAN DO A GREAT DEAL TO SLOW THE COURSE OF THE DISEASE AND MAKE YOUR PET A LOT MORE COMFORTABLE FOR THE REST OF HIS/HER DAYS. Words DR LIZA SCHNEIDER

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It’s very important to keep your pet’s weight under control. Carrying around extra baggage is a huge burden on the joints and lightening their load will help them to function better and reduce their pain.

Ensuring your pet eats good quality food is an important part of supporting their general health and wellbeing. Supplementing their diet with optimal amounts of high-quality omega 3 fatty acids, which are natural anti-inflammatories, helps them to maintain a good weight and support joint function. Just making this change can make a noticeable difference for many animals.

Next on the list and clinically proven to help are chondroprotective (joint protecting) agents called polysulphated glucosaminoglycans (P-Gags) like glucosamine. These are naturally occurring substances found in green-lipped mussels (certain extracts also have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects) and other sources. There is also an injectable form of P-Gags that can be used alone or in conjunction with the above; it too can work wonders.

Proanthocyanidins and other herbs and plant extracts, such as ginger, celery, boswelia, garlic (one medium-sized clove per 25 kg), Epitalis, artemisia and turmeric, can also be valuable therapeutic aids.

Massage of the tight muscles trying to compensate for the pain is very helpful as these are frequently tired and sore. Gentle massage is loved by most animals and helps to stimulate circulation.

Gentle, low impact exercise, such as swimming (hydrotherapy) or walks on the beach, is important to help keep the supporting muscles strong and contribute to general well-being. Manage your pet’s environment to keep obstacles like dog/cat doors, stairs and heights to a minimum and provide warm and comfortable bedding.

In addition to all of these are options including homeopathy, herbal medicine, acupuncture, NIS, magnetic therapies, hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Stem Cell Therapy, as well as musculo-skeletal therapies, such as chiropractics, osteopathy and Bowen therapy, which can also be very valuable aids. For optimal results these are best used by an experienced practitioner working in conjunction with your vet to tailor a program to suit your animal’s needs.

When none of these changes are making enough of a difference, we make use of painkillers, such as Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and others, which may occasionally have side effects, but can be invaluable to ease pain.

With a comprehensive treatment plan, a great deal of quality can be added to your pet’s life. 

HOLISTIC VETS Integrating conventional veterinary medicine and surgery with alternative therapies to regain and sustain long-term optimal health for our patients. holisticvets.co.nz Dr Liza Schneider is now on YouTube – Doctor Liza – Holistic Vet

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TRAVEL | focus

PEPPERS ON THE POINT Luxurious accommodation in Rotorua AFTER A FULL-ON FEW MONTHS MY HUSBAND, MARK, AND I CAN’T WAIT TO SPEND TWO NIGHTS AWAY IN ROTORUA. Words DEE COLLINS

It’s been bucketing with rain on our drive from Tauranga. The forecast doesn’t look very promising and we wonder if we’re going to get out and enjoy some of the experiences Rotorua is well-known for, but as we wend our way up the hill towards Peppers on the Point, the skies clear. Things are looking promising and we’re not disappointed as we drive through the gates of the property.

The Lodge Manager, Ann Gregor-Greene, is on site to meet us and, as we drink in the beautiful views out across Lake Rotorua and towards the historic Mokoia Island, we learn that this was once a Māori Pa site and is steeped in true stories of ancient battles, love, family and life.

Mark and I have been allocated an exterior, Lake Cottage Suite – a self-contained cottage which sits in front of the main mansion. We definitely plan to spend some time unwinding and enjoying the uninterrupted views from our own deck or, even better, whilst relaxing in the spa pool.

But first, it’s time to explore the property.

A family home until 2004 and still privately owned, the charming 1930s flagship is a twostory mansion that has been lovingly refurbished to retain its timeless appeal and character. Up a gorgeous wooden staircase, the mansion offers a selection of suites – each individually decorated and offering spacious living areas, underfloor heating, spa baths and aircon.

On the ground floor there is a large communal lounge with open fireplace, secluded dining and seating areas and a billiard room. The timber panelling, comfy furniture, chandeliers, antiques and exquisite art pieces work beautifully together to give an inviting, luxurious and cosy ambience.

There’s been a wedding the day before and the conservatory at the back of the mansion is still dressed for what must have been a stunning event.

Peppers on the Point is proving popular with brides as there are a number of outdoor settings for

ceremonies and receptions and a stone chapel that offers panoramic views as its backdrop.

The owner’s residence, the Lake Villa, sits above the main lodge and can be booked out by families and groups. It’s a more modern addition to the estate and offers the same stunning views, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large kitchen, open dining and living areas and extensive balcony areas.

The property also offers a range of onsite activities from massages, a small gym, tennis courts, fly-fishing from the private beach and water sports. There’s a small jetty for boat tours and, even better, guests can book a trip on a float plane for an aerial view of the region.

The 2.8 hectare lakeside estate has never been divided and the rolling grounds run down to the lake’s edge. There’s a lovely walk around the front part of the estate and, if you have carrots on hand, you’ll receive a warm welcome from the two donkeys and miniature ponies.

Each morning, as the sun pours into the breakfast room, we enjoy freshly made omelettes and a buffet of fresh fruits, cereals, breads and pastries. It isn’t long before we’re chatting to the other guests – comparing notes on what we’ve enjoyed in Rotorua.

On certain evenings, fine dining is also on offer at Peppers. The Mains is open to the general public, so you do need to book beforehand, and offers an à la carte menu using fresh produce from the lodge’s garden and locally sourced meat and fish.

Less than 10 minutes from the heart of Rotorua CBD, Peppers on the Point is a peaceful and luxurious base where we return to each evening, collapsing onto the comfy mattress, exhausted after a day well spent exploring the delights of Rotorua’s tourism offerings.

Our visit is over far too quickly but we hope it isn’t too long before we’re heading back this way again. 

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Rotorua

focus | TRAVEL

A COUPLE’S MUST-DOS for a fabulous weekend

A FEW NIGHTS AWAY IN ROTORUA WAS ALL MY HUSBAND AND I WERE AFTER TO RECHARGE OUR BATTERIES AND ENJOY SOME TIME EXPERIENCING SOMETHING DIFFERENT. Words DEE COLLINS Images DEE COLLINS, ALEX SPODYNEIKO + SUPPLIED

W

hether you want to experience Māori culture, geothermal earth forces, spa rejuvenation, thrills and adventure, or the region’s natural assets, such as 18 lakes, some of the world’s best biking trails, fantastic trout fishing and walking tracks, Rotorua delivers it in spades.

We eased ever so gently into the weekend with some much-needed pampering at the Polynesian Spa, ramped things up experiencing a new kayaking adventure with Paddle Board Rotorua, soaked in hot tubs in the middle of a forest, got tipsy at the Volcanic Hills Winery wine-tasting and relished the views while riding

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the whisper-quiet Skyline Gondola.

An e-bike experience through the Whakarewarewa Forest, lunch at Okere Falls Store and a leisurely walk on the Okere Falls track rounded off our awesome weekend.

POLYNESIAN SPA Condé Nast Traveller magazine has awarded the iconic Polynesian Spa among the world’s top 10 thermal, medical and natural spas six times in the past decade – so you know you’re in for a treat.

There are two types of mineral waters, each with their own therapeutic properties, which feed into 28 hot pools throughout the property.

Our Deluxe Romantic Package gives us access to the more exclusive Pavilion Pools area, which have differing temperatures and offer peaceful views over Lake Rotorua. There’s a choice of three acidic and five alkaline pools – the slightly acidic Priest Spring waters relieve tired muscles, aches and pains, whilst the alkaline waters of the Rachel Spring nourish the skin. Of course, as we don’t visit often, we are like kids, hopping in and out of all eight until settling into our favourites – 39°for me and 41°C for my husband.

Relaxed, we head inside for a tranquil couple's massage and slip

even further into bliss under the experienced hands of our therapists.

The hour is over far too quickly but the Polynesian Spa has a few more treats in store for us. Rehydrating with a few cups of herbal tea we then spend half an hour in our own private mineral pool before showering and rounding off the whole experience with smoothies and a delicious lunch at the Spa’s café. polynesianspa.co.nz

SKYLINE ROTORUA & VOLCANIC HILLS WINERY A gentle gondola ride up Mt Ngongotaha gives us the opportunity to admire the views over Lake Rotorua and, once there, it’s time to relax and enjoy the panoramic vista from the Volcanic Hills Winery whilst sipping on a selection of wines served to us by the very knowledgeable Larissa Park.

There aren’t actually any wine

TRAVEL | focus

grapes grown in Rotorua, but wine lovers Brent and Larissa Park knew there was an untapped market of eager wine tasters and set about bringing wine to the region. Passionate about their wines, it’s their mission to inspire the world to drink better wine.

The wines aren’t available at supermarkets – just selected outlets, restaurants and hotels and, of course, from their online store – so we decide on our favourites and leave with a selection of wines to savour at home. skyline.co.nz

PADDLE BOARD ROTORUA The Steaming Cliffs Kayak Tour is exclusive to Paddle Board Rotorua and was only introduced to the market after lockdown but it’s already one of their top-selling tours and is truly spectacular.

A bus takes us down the steep sides of the world’s youngest geothermal system – Waimungu Valley – and Jess, our guide for the next few hours, leads a group of us in twin-seated kayaks along the inspiring steaming cliffs, fumaroles and geysers of Lake Rotomahana. This is the area where the Pink and White Terraces are buried and the colourful cliffs and landscape show how magnificent these must have been. Mount Tarawera watches over from nearby and as we paddle along we enjoy watching the graceful swans in solitude. paddleboardrotorua.com

SECRET SPOT HOT TUBS

MOUNTAIN BIKE ROTORUA

Experiencing a secluded long soak in a cedar hot tub of fresh forest spring water in the middle of the Whakarewarewa Forest, craft beverage to hand, is sublime and, in the evening with lanterns set amongst the trees, magical. Another must-do-again experience. secretspot.nz

Located in the Whakarewarewa Forest, Mountain Bike Rotorua has everything you need to get out and ride. The 5,600 hectares of forest offers all levels of mountain biking experience but we choose the easy option and enjoy our first e-bike experience through the network of towering trees. Although the few hours that we spend in the forest aren’t strenuous we’re already looking forward to a mid-day meal. mtbrotorua.co.nz

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OKERE FALLS STORE Lunch on the edge of Lake Rotoiti at an eco-friendly café that offers delicious food with an emphasis on organic is a great way to spend a few hours. The owner, Sarah, is serious about healthy and tasty food and the menu offers a selection of interesting and unique food. You’ll find it hard to leave without purchasing a few artisan foods and condiments to take home – think sauces, sausages, organic wines, German beer and delectable desserts. okerefallsstore.co.nz

OKERE FALLS TRACK After eating a very pleasant and filling lunch it took a bit of effort to take those first few strides onto the Okere Falls Track. If you haven’t done this track, I highly recommend it. It’s a short walk but beautiful. The viewing platforms along the route gave us great views of the waterfalls – if you’re lucky, you’ll spot white-water rafters and kayakers making their way down the Kaituna River.

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Choose accommodation from lakeview lodge suites, self-contained cottage suites or apartment style. Unwind and relax on five acres of peaceful, tranquil and beautifully manicured grounds, and enjoy the many onsite activities – from tennis, massages and feeding the petting animals to reading a book at the lake edge. Enjoy fine dining TO in the à la carte Mains Restaurant. Breakfast is served daily, and lunches or picnics can be pre-arranged.

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focus | FOOD

WINTER COOKBOOK HEALTHY, COMFORTING, EASY TO MAKE – WHAT ELSE TO WISH FOR IN A WINTER MENU?

Recipes extracted from Plant over Processed by Andrea Hannemann (HarperCollins, RRP $45.00).

Images: Petrina Tinslay

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FOOD | focus

CARAMEL CHEWIES INGREDIENTS: • 12 Medjool dates • ¼ cup natural peanut butter or almond butter • ¼ cup vegan chocolate chips • ¼ cup crushed peanuts or slivered almonds (optional) • Sea salt for sprinkling

METHOD: 1.Slice each date enough to remove the stone. Fill each date with 1 tsp of the peanut butter or almond butter.

Arrange the dates on a baking sheet or plate.

2.In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stir to create a smooth chocolate sauce and drizzle over each date.

3.Sprinkle each date with the crushed peanuts or slivered almonds (if using) and a tiny bit of salt.

4.Freeze the dates for at least 1 hour for the best texture before serving.

LENTIL SHEPHERD’S PIE INGREDIENTS: • 3 medium russet potatoes • 2 Tbsp vegan butter or extra virgin olive oil • ½ cup unsweetened plant milk • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper • 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 1 cup chopped onion • 4 medium carrots, finely diced • 2 large cloves garlic, minced • 3 cups cooked brown or green lentils • 1 tsp ground turmeric • 1 tsp ground cumin • 2 Tbsp all-purpose gluten-free flour • 2 tsp tomato paste • 1 cup vegetable stock • 1 tsp vegan Worcestershire sauce • 2 tsp fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried) • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried) • 1 cup fresh or frozen peas

METHOD: 1. Preheat the oven to 200ºC. 2. Cut potatoes into ½-inch chunks. Place in a medium saucepan, bring to boil and cook for 10-15 minutes, until you can easily smash a potato with a fork. Drain well.

3. In the same saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium-low heat and mix in the plant milk. Return the potatoes to the saucepan and mash with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Season with salt and pepper and set aside.

4. Prepare the filling. Heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the onion and carrots and cook until the onion begins to soften, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring for an additional 1 minute.

5. Add the cooked lentils, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp pepper, the turmeric, and cumin and stir well. Add the flour, tomato paste, vegetable stock, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary and thyme and stir to combine.

Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, until the sauce has thickened. Remove from the heat, add the peas and stir to combine.

6. Spread the filling evenly into an 11×7-inch baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly to the edges of the dish and forking across the top so you have some rough edges that will crisp up in the oven.

7. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, until the potatoes begin to brown. To crisp the top, turn the oven to grill and grill for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. focusmagazine.co.nz

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Recipes extracted from Retreat Yourself by Joelene Ranby.

Cookbook can be purchased online at resolutionretreats.co.nz

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FOOD | focus

CREAMY CHICKEN & MUSHROOM CASSEROLE INGREDIENTS: • 1 onion, sliced • 300g chicken breast • Sliced mushrooms (as many as you like) • 2 tsp onion powder or mushroom soup mix • 250ml sour cream

METHOD: 1. Slice the onion and chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. In a non-stick frying pan, sauté the onion and brown the chicken. Add mushrooms and stir until chicken is cooked through.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together the onion powder or mushroom soup mix and sour cream. Add to chicken mixture and stir through.

3. Serve with a large serving of steamed vegetables.

SPICED APPLE & WALNUT CRUMBLE MUFFINS INGREDIENTS: • 2 large green or red apples, pureed • 1 cup oats • ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped • ¼ cup cooked kumara, pureed • ¼ cup almond butter • 2 Tbsp rice malt syrup, maple syrup or honey • 2 Tbsp shredded coconut • 2 Tbsp chia seeds • 2 tsp ground cinnamon • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1 tsp baking powder • ¼ tsp sea salt TOPPING INGREDIENTS: • 1 Tbsp oats • 1 tsp rice malt syrup, maple syrup or honey • 2 Tbsp roughly chopped walnuts • 1 tsp coconut oil, softened • Pinch of cinnamon

METHOD: 1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a 12-hole muffin tin with baking powder.

2. Add all muffin ingredients into a food processor and blend until you form a smooth mixture.

3. Divide mixture amongst the muffin holes.

4. To make the topping, add the topping ingredients into a small bowl. Using your fingers, combine the mixture until crumbly.

Sprinkle evenly on top of the muffin mixture.

5. Bake for 15 minutes or until a knife comes out clean. Once cooked, allow to cool slightly before eating.

TIP

If freezing, wait until cool then wrap well.

Will last up to 2 months frozen.

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focus | FOOD

DRY J ULY moc k ta il car d DRY JULY CAMPAIGN HAS RAISED OVER $6 MILLION SINCE 2012 TO SUPPORT CANCER PATIENTS, THEIR FAMILIES AND CARERS. THROW A MOCKTAIL PARTY TO SUPPORT A GOOD CAUSE!

ACES HEARTS DELIGHT • 70ml Brunswick Aces Hearts Sapiir • 150ml East Imperial Tonic Garnish with a dried orange wheel and fresh thyme

ACES SPADES SUNRISE • 70ml Brunswick Aces Spades Sapiir • 150ml East Imperial Tonic

BRUNSWICK ACES SAPIIRS Sapiir is an expertly crafted range of non-alcoholic, gininspired botanical alternatives to alcohol. They use delicious and aromatic botanicals like lemon myrtle, Tasmanian pepperberry, native wattleseed, and juniper. Sapiir is 100% distilled with no added sugar.

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Garnish with a dried lime wheel and fresh sage

BUSINESS

48

A RICHER YOU

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY

50

TIPS TO DEEP CLEAN YOUR WORKSPACE

52

THE LAST PAGE JULIE SACH

focus | BUSINESS

A RICHER YOU

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONEY

*** MARY HOLM, BESTSELLING AUTHOR AND NEW ZEALAND’S MOST TRUSTED FINANCIAL EXPERT ON HOW TO MAKE YOUR MONEY WORK IN THE REAL WORLD, HAS WRITTEN COUNTLESS Q&A COLUMNS. IN HER LATEST BOOK, MARY HAS GATHERED TOGETHER 184 OF HER BEST LETTERS SO READERS CAN BUILD THEIR FINANCIAL KNOWLEDGE BY EAVESDROPPING ON THE REAL FINANCIAL STORIES OF OTHER NEW ZEALANDERS. Words MARY HOLM PROPERTY SPLIT AT THE END OF A RELATIONSHIP How to do a DIY pre-nup that will hold up in court.

IN 2012, I LEFT A 25-YEAR MARRIAGE AND SINCE HAVE PROVIDED ALL OF THE HANDS-ON CARE FOR THREE TEENAGE CHILDREN AND SIMULTANEOUSLY REBUILT MY CAREER. THROUGH SHEER HARD WORK, GRIT AND SOME GOOD LUCK, I HAVE RETRAINED AND NOW HAVE 15 TIMES THE INCOME I HAD ON SEPARATION. IN THAT TIME, I HAVE ALSO HAD A FIVE-YEAR RELATIONSHIP THAT RECENTLY FINISHED. THAT PERSON WAS ALSO SEPARATED, AND HAD NOT MADE ANY DECISIONS ABOUT BUYING PROPERTY OR ORGANISING KIWISAVER, AND DOWNSIZED THEIR CAREER TO LIVE A ‘BETTER LIFE’. WHILE WE WERE TOGETHER, I DID PROVIDE A NICE HOME. THEY PAID SOME CONTRIBUTION TO EVERYDAY LIVING COSTS ONLY. WE WROTE AN AGREEMENT STATING THAT ANY ASSETS PREVIOUSLY OWNED OR BOUGHT BY ONE OF US WHILE IN THE RELATIONSHIP WOULD NOT BE SHARED, AND ANY GAIN IN ASSET VALUE STAYS WITH THE OWNER. A RECENT LETTER TO YOUR COLUMN IMPLIES SOMEHOW THAT JUST BECAUSE WE LIVE TOGETHER THE PARTNER COULD EXPECT TO ‘PUSH FOR A NAME ON THE HOUSE’ OR SOME OTHER ‘RELATIONSHIP PROPERTY’. ON WHAT LEVEL IS ANY EXPECTATION, LEGAL OR OTHERWISE, THAT A PARTNER CAN ACCESS ANY OF MY FINANCES OR ASSETS? I put your question to trust and estates lawyer Rhonda Powell.

She starts with the basic law. ‘The first point to establish is whether the relationship “qualifies” for the equal sharing regime under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976,’ she says. ‘As a general rule, de facto relationships qualify for equal sharing after three years. Marriages qualify immediately.

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‘As a general rule, pre-relationship assets remain your separate property, as do gifts and inheritances, and these are not subject to division. Assets acquired during the relationship are relationship property to be split equally when the relationship ends.

‘As an exception to this, the family home is always relationship property, if either party to the relationship owns it. Family chattels (household items for family use) are also always relationship property.’

She adds that if your ex moved in with you, and lived there for five years, he probably has a right to 50% of the value of that home.

But what about the agreement you two had – which presumably stated that the family home would remain your separate property?

‘A contracting out agreement is a formal legal document that can only be completed after both parties have independent legal advice, and the lawyers certify the agreement too,’ says Powell. ‘So, if that is the sort of agreement you wrote, you are probably okay. If you wrote one yourselves at home, then it will have no legal effect.’ She adds, ‘Most general practitioner lawyers can prepare a contracting out agreement, but you can also do it yourself online, as long as you still get independent legal advice before signing it.’ Go to agreeable.co.nz.

Family trusts have their purposes, but they can make life much more complicated.

WOMEN MAY END UP WITH LITTLE I KNOW OF A WOMAN WHO, IN HER SECOND MARRIAGE, HAS MARRIED A MAN WHO HAD PREVIOUSLY PUT EVERYTHING INTO A FAMILY TRUST FOR HIS NOW ADULT CHILDREN. SO THE FAMILY HOME AND EVERYTHING IS

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IN THERE, AND THE WOMAN DOES NOT (ON PAPER) GET ANYTHING. AND ANOTHER WOMAN WHO IS THE SECOND PARTNER (BUT NOT MARRIED) OF A MAN WHO HAS MANY ASSETS IN A TRUST, AND EVEN AFTER 15 YEARS SHE CAN’T TALK ABOUT IT WITH HIM. IF THE MEN DIE WHAT IS THE WOMEN’S POSITION RE MONEY? BOTH WOMEN ARE UNABLE/UNWILLING TO ROCK THE BOAT BY PUSHING FOR (FOR EXAMPLE) THEIR NAME ON THE HOUSE. WHAT TO DO? Two disturbing situations, which I sent to trust and estates lawyer Rhonda Powell for comment. ‘My first reaction is that these women need to consider why they are in a relationship with a person who is attempting to undermine their relationship property rights?’ says Powell. ‘Unfortunately, situations in which (normally) men create structures to deny their (normally female) partners a share of family property are all too common,’ she says.

The men you’re referring to may protest that they set up the trusts before they knew the women. But still, they are in the relationships now, and the women are vulnerable. ‘Trust property is not relationship property to be divided upon separation, and neither can it be passed by will. So, these women would only be able to share in property outside the trust,’ says Powell. She adds that, ‘At the time of a separation, it is sometimes possible to make inroads into property held in a trust through the Family Court, but only with significant stress and expense.’

Her advice: ‘Don’t wait until after the person with the trust dies to sort it out. You need to discuss relationship property up front during the relationship. After they die, it will all be much harder.’

I also asked Powell for any advice for others getting into a relationship in which the other person has put assets into a trust. ‘People can be reluctant to talk about money and let it

get in the way of a romance,’ she says. ‘However, the risks of not doing it are too high. If you can’t have that conversation, or if the proposal on the table is unfair to you, then you shouldn’t be in the relationship. If your partner is not sharing when things are going well, how do you think he will behave if it doesn’t work out?’

Sadly, I suspect people’s unwillingness to discuss this issue with their partners is quite common – whether they are in a new relationship or well down the track. If that applies to any readers, can I suggest you point out this Q&A to your partner?

It might make your Saturday morning stressful, but the rest of your life less so. Please do it. 

***

Extracted from a richer you: How To Make The Most Of Your Money by Mary Holm (HarperCollins NZ). Available now.

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Image by pch.vector / Freepik

Eco Group NZ ecogroupnz.com facebook.com/ecogroupnewzealand

CLEAN BREAK

DID YOU KNOW THAT YOUR OFFICE DESK CAN HOST 400 TIMES MORE GERMS THAN A TOILET SEAT? YUK! KATHY CHERRY FROM ECO GROUP NZ – A PAPAMOABASED COMPANY, PRODUCING SUSTAINABLE, ECOFRIENDLY CLEANING PRODUCTS – EXPLAINS HOW TO DEEP CLEAN YOUR WORKSPACE.

WHEN TO CLEAN? Frequently used office surfaces, such as keyboards, desks and door handles, should be wiped down weekly, but a really deep clean should be done at least once a year. If you work in a large office, it’s better to maintain a twice-per-year schedule.

It’s been proven that a clean office keeps employees more productive and encourages visitors’ trust and motivation to work with your company.

HOW TO CLEAN? Should you hire a cleaning company if things have become really grimy? The short answer is NO! While a cleaning company takes the pressure off your shoulders and frees up your time, you can totally do it yourself and save money!

Modern cleaning products are highly powerful and effective, so you won’t need any sacral knowledge to succeed.

Just follow the instructions on the bottles!

Biodegradable Eco Group NZ products are better for your skin and for the environment. We’ve been through the accreditation process to become a partner of Environmental Choice and we’ve been assessed and approved by an independent certifier as environmentally-preferable.

WHERE TO CLEAN? Wherever dust hides! Dust is one of the most common allergens. Dust allergy affects our sleeping patterns and, as a result, makes us less productive. Start with wiping all the walls, blinds, baseboards and window ledges with Eco Group NZ Glass and Surface Cleaner.

Office chairs. We suggest checking the upholstery tag for the cleaning instructions but, generally, office chairs require a proper vacuum and wiping the hard parts with Eco Group’s Spray & Wipe All Purpose Cleaner. Remove stains on the leather or fabric with our Dish Wash Concentrate dissolved in some water.

Computer equipment. Keyboards can become one of the dirtiest places in the office – crumbs, skin oil, dust, etc. It’s easier to list the things that do not land on the keyboard than

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the ones that do! Give it a good shake over the bin first, vacuum the remaining debris and wipe it with Citrus Cleaner to remove germs. Do the same with desk phones, headsets and printers (minus the shaking part, perhaps!)

Hard-to-reach places. Prepare to crawl, climb and twist your body to reach the places that are often overlooked, like the vents, the top of the aircon or the ceiling corners. That’s where insects love to hide their eggs. Disgusting, I know. But nothing our anti-bacterial Disinfectant Concentrate won’t fix.

Kitchen. It’s horrifying how much mould, rotten produce and tea stains accumulate in office kitchens! Throw away everything that looks like a health hazard and tackle appliances with our Cream Cleanser – a non-abrasive, heavy-duty product that cuts through the grease, grime and marks easily and leaves no scratching.

Floors. Wrap up your cleaning day with a proper floor wipe.

Just 5 capfuls or 50mls of Eco Group NZ Floor Cleaner Concentrate to 5 Litres of cold water and the grime, dirt and scuff marks will disappear, leaving only a pleasant lemon fragrance behind. The Concentrate is phosphate-free and made from non-toxic plant- and mineral-based biodegradable ingredients. It’s suitable for wood, vinyl, linoleum, tiles, slate, cork, ceramic tiles and concrete floors. 

Your hands will thank you for using our gentle Hand Wash with a skin conditioner to soften and nourish your skin after all this cleaning.

We let you get on with your business while we get on with your accounts and tax returns.

Megan Tomalin – SBA Tauranga.

SBA Tauranga provides a wide range of accounting and taxation services for individuals, sole traders, partnerships, small companies, trusts, and rental property owners. Our aim is for our fees to be affordable and our services accessible.

Whatever your accounting needs

– SBA Tauranga can help.

T: 07 578 8959 | sba.co.nz/tauranga

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JULIE SACH

TAUTOKO MAI SEXUAL HARM SUPPORT SERVICE

TAUTOKO MAI SEXUAL HARM SUPPORT WAS ESTABLISHED IN 2010 BY A GROUP OF DOCTORS AND NURSES TO CARE AND SUPPORT CLIENTS IN THE AREA OF SEXUAL ASSAULT. THE ORGANISATION SAW A 31% INCREASE IN ITS CRISIS SERVICE IN 2019/2020 FROM THE PREVIOUS YEAR, WITH A 226% INCREASE SINCE THE CRISIS SERVICE STARTED IN 2016.

THAT’S A CONSIDERABLE INCREASE. GOING FORWARD, WHAT IS TAUTOKO MAI’S VISION? As well as providing services that focus on supporting those who have experienced sexual trauma, in the last 12 months the team at Tautoko Mai have started their journey toward ending sexual violence and now play a significant role in prevention and education in the local regions.

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT TAUTOKO MAI? I’m the Quality Assurance and Social Change Leader, so there are two parts to my role. The first part is ensuring Tautoko Mai’s work is professional, timely and effective. The second is working with systems, organisations and groups to bring about a change to our culture to eliminate the conditions that mean sexual violence even occurs.

WHAT SERVICES ARE OFFERED BY TAUTOKO MAI? We provide medical services for people who have experienced sexual harm, including forensics, GP and paediatric clinics.

We also have a crisis counselling and social work service, and provide longer-term therapy through ACC. Our newer prevention team delivers the Mates and Dates healthy relationship programme in secondary schools and educates and raises awareness around issues of sexual harm and sexuality.

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SEXUAL HARM IN THE WORKPLACE HAS BEEN GETTING A LOT OF MEDIA ATTENTION RECENTLY. CAN YOU ELABORATE ON THIS? Yes and we see workplaces really struggling with how to respond well to allegations. It’s costing a lot in staff turnover and productivity and has real reputational risks. For that reason we’re offering a one-day symposium on 14 June 2021 called “It’s Time to Talk About Sexual Harm at Work”. It’s a chance for organisations to hear from industry experts about how to prevent these things happening in the first place, and how to respond if they do. If people are interested they can check out our website tautokomai.co.nz CAN OUR READERS VOLUNTEER THEIR SERVICE, DONATE OR HELP IN ANY WAY? We’re currently recruiting for Mates and Dates facilitators – people can apply through our website for this paid, casual role.

Help and voluntary assistance is also greatly appreciated and we welcome financial donations. Call us on our toll-free number 0800 227 233. tautokomai.co.nz 

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