magazine
Meet
LISA COX
NATURAL WAYS TO BEAT ANXIETY COMPROMISED
IMMUNITY: NOW WHAT?
WORKING FROM HOME SUSAN JARVIS: PLEASURE DURING PANDEMIC
Forget over-the-counter drugs with serious side effects, or filling countless prescriptions that ends up causing more problems than it solves. Did you know that Americans are paying more for prescription drugs than any other developed country in the world? Take back your power and start your journey to real health today. Use code “20OFF� at checkout to get 20% off!
www.titaniumliving.com
Contents
Staying Positive In Negative Times By Lisa Cox . . . . . . . . . 6 Natural Ways To Beat Anxiety . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Sarah Ballantyne : What You Put Into Your Body Matters . . . 16 What To Do If You’re Immune Compromised . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Susan Jarvis: Pleasure During Pandemic. . . . 26 Recipe: Anti-Inflammatory Appetisers To Please A Crowd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Working From Home . . . . . . . 35
HealthWisdom Health Wisdom M A G A Z I N E
Advertising Enquiries:
Published By:
Distributed By:
Designed By:
READ PUBLISHING
READ PUBLISHING
READ PUBLISHING
READ PUBLISHING
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Reference to any specific commercial product, process, or services by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise, does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by READ PUBLISHING. Links outside of this publication are provided for user convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement, recommendation, or favouring by READ PUBLISHING. The publisher or any of the editors, writers or contributors will not accept responsibility or liability for the correctness of information or opinions expressed in the publication. All material submitted is at the owners risk and while every care will be taken the publisher does not accept liability for loss or damage. No person, organization or party can copy or re-produce the content on this site and or magazine or any part of this publication without a written consent from the editors’ panel and the author if the content, as applicable. The publisher, authors and contributors reserve their rights with regards to copyright of their work.
Contributors LISA COX Lisa Cox is a media professional, author and public speaker. She is also a qualified health coach with a strong focus on integrative health. @lisacox.co
SUSAN JARVIS After three pivotal points in her life: death, divorce and redundancy, each being a catalyst to introduce positive change, Susan Jarvis was 51 when she first opened The Spicy Boudoir. Her vision for an all-inclusive safe space for women to explore their sexuality came to life through this online store welcoming you to discover your tools, both physically and emotionally, for achieving a life full of passion, and to truly connect to both yourself and your partner. thespicyboudoir.com
Editor In Chief Welcome to another issue of Health Wisdom Magazine! I am so excited to share this issue with you. When we celebrated the start of 2020, no-one could have predicted the way this year would turn out. But just like celebrating a new year brings hope and joy, I quickly realised that this year, with all its challenges, also holds the promise of hope and joy. Lisa Cox, award winning writer, female changemaker and our stunning cover girl, shares her winning strategies for staying positive during challenging times with us on pages 6 to 9. Her joy in a simple cup of coffee even hospital coffee drunk from a polystyrene mug - is something that can inspire all of us to celebrate the hope that difficult times may bring. On (what some would consider) a lighter note, we talk to renowned speaker and activist Susan Jarvis about embracing your sexuality at any stage of your life, even during a pandemic. On pages 26 to 30 she explains why pleasure can play an important role to attract life and vitality into your life.
Also in this issue: • The implications of being immunocompromised- does having an autoimmune condition put you at greater risk of contracting illnesses? • Dr Sarah Ballantyne of The Paleo Mom sheds light on why the “Paleo diet” as we know it is due for an upgrade. • Beating anxiety naturally, pages 10 to 14. • Anti-inflammatory foods that can win over a crowd (be that your family or friends and neighbours – if restrictions in your state allow it) pages 33 to 35. As you can see, our issue is filled with information to help you navigate your way to optimal health! Our goal is to support you be the healthiest version of yourself, so you can live a fulfilled life and also contribute to those you love. Thank you for taking the time to read it. As always, please keep your comments and feedback coming to editor@healthwisdommagazine.com Cheerio,
Elanya
STAYING POSITIVE IN NEGATIVE TIMES BY LISA COX The last few months have been
My experiences in varying states of
difficult for everyone - some more
isolation (although not identical to
than others. Although everyone’s
a global pandemic) have taught me
COVID-19 stories are different, for
a lot about seeking the sunshine
me, this ‘new normal’ has been very
in a situation when everything
similar to my normal life.
around you just looks dark and
Having limited or no access to
overwhelmingly gloomy.
the things I enjoy, not being able
I had a stroke when I was a fit
to see loved ones, having certain
and healthy 24 year-old. I spent
privileges and freedoms taken away
over a year in hospital (the first
and even just being bored staring
time) and underwent about a
at the same walls of my home, are
dozen operations, including the
all challenges that I’ve had a lot of
amputation of my leg, remaining
practice dealing with over the years.
toes and nine fingertips.
6
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
“Don’t just wait for the big successes and events to express joy.”
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
7
These days, I always use a
If you had told me 16 years ago that
wheelchair to mobilise, have a
one day, I’d be genuinely happy and
permanent brain injury and am over
living my best life in a wheelchair,
25 percent blind.
with multiple disabilities, after being
So, what have I learned about making a ‘bad’ situation a little better? I’ve learnt a lot over the years about making the most of really rubbish situations. The isolation, the boredom, the loneliness and even the grief. I’ve felt it all. But, I’ve also felt incredible joy for the simplest of pleasures that I once took for granted, gratitude for my life , even with multiple disabilities, and pride in myself for relearning the most basic of tasks like brushing my own teeth and feeding myself. I know some days feel like they will take forever in isolation, but I know you can do this and I know you will get through it. Humans are far more resilient and able to adapt to change than we give ourselves credit for. I wasn’t expected to live through the first night in hospital, or the second,
in a coma for 3 weeks and kept alive by machines for two months and in hospital for over a year, I would not have believed you. To this day I’ll never understand how I got through some of those challenges, but here are some of the things I did throughout that first year, subsequent months and still do today, to remain positive in a negative situation.
SEEK SMALL OR SIMPLE PLEASURES TO BRING YOU JOY In the hospital, I savoured the very simple act of drinking a cup of coffee. Yes, it was terrible hospital coffee in a little plastic cup but once I’d learnt how to hold a cup again, that simple practice was always a moment to reflect on what I was grateful for. Don’t just wait for the ‘big’ successes/events to express joy.
have this level of brain function and
SURROUND YOURSELF WITH THE RIGHT SORT OF PEOPLE
I certainly wasn’t expected to be
With social isolation, we’re not
writing for Health Wisdom Magazine.
seeing other people as much as we
or the third. I wasn’t expected to
would like. I know that feeling well. 8
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
I didn’t have a smartphone during that first year, but these days I know the importance of consuming the right sorts of content online. For me personally, the right sort of people are real, honest and realistic optimists like me. They aim for optimism where they can but are also grounded in reality with a realworld perspective.
DON’T COMPARE YOUR WAY OF COPING WITH ANOTHER PERSON’S WAY We all deal with life’s challenges differently. For example, my husband and I have worked out that we have different ways of dealing with grief – and that’s ok! If sitting on the couch suits you best, do that. If cooking up a storm suits you best,
FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL DURING THIS TIME
do that. If jogging outdoors or taking
Depending on where you live,
GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO FEEL ALL THE FEELS
restrictions have stopped us doing so much. But bring your attention to the things you can control. Think about how much water you drink, how much movement you get, what tasks you prioritise and who you follow on Instagram. Some of these are very basic little things but collectively they can make a big difference.
long walks suits you best, do that.
Sadness, fear, hurt, overwhelm… the list goes on. Whatever negative emotions this time is bringing out in you, know that it’s perfectly normal (and even healthy) to express those emotions rather than push them down with toxic behaviours. Cry if you feel like crying, scream if you feel like screaming, but as I
REPRIORITISE YOUR GOALS DURING THIS TIME
mentioned above, it’s also ok if you
Pre-COVID you may have had big
You do you!
personal or professional goals to achieve but give yourself permission
don’t feel these emotions. There are no rules about how you must feel.
Stay safe and have a beautiful day,
Lisa xx
to quit, put it on hold or whatever feels right for you. Nobody else should be judging you at this time
@lisacox.co
so please don’t judge yourself. www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
9
NATURAL WAYS TO BEAT ANXIETY DURING A CRISIS Anxiety can be overwhelming and
as we navigate our way through
cause many physical and emotional
this challenging time, but there
side effects. While an anxiety
are plenty ways you can take the
disorder should be monitored and
pressure off, naturally;
treated by a qualified professional, your lifestyle can be part of a highly effective treatment plan to help manage your anxiety symptoms.
STAY ACTIVE Regular participation in aerobic exercise has been shown to
These days, we all have to accept
decrease overall levels of tension,
the anxiety inherent in living in the
elevate and stabilize mood, improve
time of the coronavirus pandemic.
sleep, and improve self-esteem.
Those of us prone to feeling
About five minutes of aerobic
anxious may well be experiencing
exercise can begin to stimulate anti-
higher levels of stress than normal
anxiety effects.
10
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
During exercise, your heart rate
stressor that impairs brain functions
shoots up, but over time, as your
and contributes to an overload on
fitness level improves, your heart
the body’s systems. This overload
begins to work more efficiently.
contributes to memory loss, brain
As a result, your resting heart
fog, confusion, and depression,
rate between exercise sessions
making it more difficult for a person
eventually becomes slower.
to deal with stress. Furthermore,
Improved heart and lung function due to regular aerobic activity are often associated with a greater sense of overall well-being, which can help offset feelings of anxiety. Thankfully, most aerobic exercises that can help manage anxiety are able to be done while social distancing: • Swimming • Biking • Running • Brisk walking • Tennis • Dancing
GET PLENTY OF SLEEP Getting healthy sleep for a week can
sleep deprivation creates an imbalance in hormone levels that drive anxiety levels higher. Too little sleep also boosts adrenaline levels that can exacerbate existing anxiety issues. Try and maintain good sleep health by: • Setting a consistent sleep schedule • Exercising early in the day • Scheduling meal times • Avoiding caffeine, drugs, cigarettes, and alcohol • Creating a relaxing bedtime routine • Making a sleep sanctuary that you love • Not just laying there. If you can’t sleep, get up for a while
act like a reset button that helps
• Waking with the sun
you to heal and view your life more
• Limit news and scrolling on your
positively. However, a sleep debt
phone; especially at night.
can have serious ramifications on your anxiety levels.
CUT OUT CAFFEINE
When a person gets too little sleep,
This one hurts a little - especially
the deprivation acts as a chronic
if you love your morning cuppa! www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
11
Caffeine increases alertness
you with your energy levels as well
by blocking a brain chemical
as helping you with anxiety and
(adenosine) that makes you feel
depression, without the caffeine.
tired, while at the same time triggering the release of adrenalin that’s known to increase energy.
EAT A HEALTHY DIET People who suffer with anxiety
If the amount of caffeine is high
can benefit greatly from eating a
enough, these effects are stronger,
balanced diet. Frozen dinners and
resulting in caffeine-induced
ice cream will affect you differently
anxiety. While there are some
than eating chicken and broccoli
benefits to caffeine, high doses
with pasta made from whole grains
can induce anxiety symptoms and
or quinoa. The second meal includes
brain fog. Those with panic disorder
whole, unprocessed foods, and you
and social anxiety disorder are
control the amount of sugar, if any,
especially sensitive, so eliminating
added to the meal. It takes longer
caffeine may significantly improve
for your body to metabolise these
anxiety symptoms.
foods, which helps you feel fuller for
If you are avoiding caffeine, be sure to check your supplements as some contain caffeine as a mood
longer and keeps blood sugar levels steady, rather than yo-yoing up and down.
booster. There are supplements,
There are a few simple rules to help
such as American Ginseng, to help
keep anxiety at bay; • Drink plenty of water; at least six to eight glasses a day. • Many soft drinks contain caffeine and have a high sugar content. Substitute with plain water or even sparkling water for a better option. • Work toward a well-balanced diet with adequate fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats.
12
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
• Avoid processed foods and
Through meditation, you can
foods high in sugar so the body
familiarise yourself with anxiety-
experiences fewer highs and
inducing thoughts and storylines.
lows of blood sugar, which helps
You learn to see them, sit with them,
reduce feelings of anxiety. A
and let them go. This teaches you
sugar rush can mimic a panic
two important things: thoughts do
attack.
not define you, and thoughts are not real. You are able to gradually
MEDITATION Anxiety is a cognitive state connected to an inability to regulate emotions. Consistent meditation
change your relationship with anxiety, differentiating between what is an irrational episode and what’s true.
practice reprograms neural
Meditation also brings your attention
pathways in the brain and, therefore,
to any physical sensations felt in the
improves the ability to regulate
moment. This technique involves
emotions.
mentally scanning your body, inch
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
13
by inch, making you more attuned
in Chinese and Ayurvedic healing
to what is being experienced
traditions. Adaptogenic herbs, such
physically. In exploring these
as American Ginseng, Ashwagandha
sensations, you sit with your senses
and Rosemary have been studied
in the same way you sit with your
throughout history as a way to
thoughts. This go-to technique
improve the body’s ability to
can provide a safe place that can
respond to stress, increase energy
be repeatedly accessed whenever
and attention, and fight off fatigue.
anxiety starts to creep in.
ADAPTOGENS
Trying the above ideas may help calm you down when you’re feeling anxious. Increased anxiety may
Consider adaptogens, which are
require therapy or prescription
non-toxic plants that help the
medication, so make sure to talk to
body resist stressors.They are not
your health care professional about
a new concept; these herbs and
concerns.
roots have been used for centuries
14
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
“My skin doesn’t itch anymore, my focus at work has returned and my daughter said my hair looks shiny & healthy again!” - Anne H. Want to feel like your younger self again? Click here to get yours delivered now. Proudly made in the USA.
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
15
“The worst food culprits are junk foods that are engineered to be hyper-palatable, such as those laden in salt, sugar and fat.” SARAH BALLANTYNE:
WHAT YOU PUT INTO YOUR BODY MATTERS Award-winning blogger and co-host
recognised that her health was not
of the top-rated and syndicated
going to accommodate any attempts
The Paleo View podcast, Dr. Sarah
at balancing a high-powered
Ballantyne has also managed to
academic career with being a fully-
juggle motherhood, write four New
engaged parent and so she opted to
York Times Bestselling books and
become a stay-at-home mum. She
feel amazing at the same time.
was morbidly obese and suffered
This passionate powerhouse hasn’t always felt this good. Upon the birth
from over a dozen immune and autoimmune-related diseases.
of her first child, and a burgeoning
Living with a long list of physical
academic career, Dr. Sarah
complaints, including: Hashimoto’s
16
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
thyroiditis, fibromyalgia, Irritable
health and the compounds in foods
Bowel Syndrome, acid reflux,
that undermine it and what foods
migraines, anxiety, asthma, allergies,
have what proportions of those.
psoriasis and lichen planus required her to take a handful of prescription medications, some of which she has been taking for 12 years. After her second daughter was born, Dr. Sarah discovered the Paleo lifestyle.
Rating food based on how they nourish our bodies versus potentially undermine our health in some way led her to look at our diets in a contemporary way. Instead of defining a healthy diet based on
The dietary change completely
what you don’t eat and what you cut
transformed her health. She was
out, she reframed the idea to focus
able to discontinue her prescriptions
on what you actually put into your
within two weeks and over time, she
body.
mitigated and reversed her illnesses and lost 120 pounds.
She told 180 Nutrition, that she is researching a more inclusive version
In an interview for 180 Nutrition
of Paleo, based on the individual
called Dr Sarah Ballantyne –
needs. “When you see a list of foods
Everything You Need To Know
to avoid, which is how the paleo diet
About The Paleo Diet, Sarah said “It
was typically described way back
was so miraculous, it was just eye
in 2011, if you don’t have a reason
opening to me to have these health
behind it, why would you cut out all
conditions that I had struggled with,
grains or why would you cut out all
for some of them 15 years at that
legumes?” She said.
point of my life, disappear within two weeks.”
“I’m looking at the scientific literature to understand the
An estimated 50 million Americans
nutrients in foods versus the
suffer from some form of
compounds that are going to
autoimmune disease. If you’re
stimulate the immune system
among them, you may know all too
or interfere with hormones or
well how little modern medicine
negatively impact the gut.”
can do to alleviate your condition. Sarah began to research about the compounds in foods that are vital to
Her research shows how what we are consuming has set us up
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
17
for allergies, chronic illnesses,
be triggered by a suboptimal
overactive immune systems
environment, which includes our
and inflammation, which are the
diet and our lifestyle and infectious
driving factors in chronic illness
agents, toxin exposure, pesticide
forming, such as diabetes, obesity,
exposure. Many of these things
cardiovascular disease, autoimmune
we can’t control, but she says we
disease. Nutrient deficient diets,
can control what we put in our
high in inflammatory compounds
bodies, the quality of our sleep,
like sugar and full of oxidized fats
and whether or not we’re actively
that are in manufactured foods
managing stress.
are completely contrary to our biological needs, yet have become the norm.
The worst food culprits are junk foods that are engineered to be hyper-palatable, such as those
It’s not surprising that she has said
laden in salt, sugar and fat. Think
she wonders how there are any
packets of chips and sweet biscuits.
healthy people walking around at all
With zero nutritional value, they
anymore.
don’t give us anything other than
Dr. Sarah found that our immune systems are more likely to 18
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
pure calories. And, because they’re designed to be so delicious, we buy
them over and over again because
kitchen preparing special foods.
those big companies want our
Dr. Sarah’s website, thepaleomom.
dollars.
com has loads of detailed articles
Unfortunately, those types of foods override our satiety signals which can trick us into overeating or that cause cravings. We end up having a muted response to healthy foods and are less likely to appreciate how delicious an apple really is because it’s not as delicious as a chocolate bar. “Real food has such amazing flavor when you really detoxify your body from those manufactured, I like to think of them as food like substances,” she told 180 Nutrition.
distilling the science behind how diet and lifestyle impact health, family-friendly recipes, that span the gamut from kid staples, comfort foods, to quick and easy meals, gourmet dishes, treats for special occasions, snacks and nut-free baking, to recipes compliant with the autoimmune protocol for those who suffer from autoimmune diseases (like Dr. Sarah). There are also complete food lists with strategies for the day-to-day how to stay within your food budget, where to shop for what you need,
Dr. Sarah is passionate about
how to make the most out of your
sharing the science behind the
time in the kitchen, and how to eat
Paleo diet and lifestyle, with a focus
out. This site takes all the guesswork
on modifications for autoimmune
out of going Paleo.
disease sufferers. Her personal experiences with autoimmune disease is the reason for the large amount of autoimmune-related content on her blog and the reason why her first two books are focused on how to modify a Paleo diet to reverse autoimmune disease. There’s no need to worry that
There are also loads of simple strategies for lifestyle adjustments, including small steps that can make a huge difference to support healing, making it a veritable toolkit to make lasting, positive change toward better health. thepaleomom.com
“going Paleo” will break the bank or require too much time in the
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
19
WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE IMMUNE COMPROMISED Our immune system fights off
lymph nodes. Together, these
diseases and protects our body
organs work together to create
against new infections. If you are
immune cells, otherwise known as
immunocompromised, you may get
white blood cells, and antibodies.
sick more often, stay sick longer, and be more vulnerable to different types of infections. However, this does not mean that you cannot live a healthy and fulfilled life.
Although vulnerability to infection and illness depends on each person’s degree of immunosuppression, which can vary greatly from person to person, it
Several organs are part of the
is possible to boost your immune
immune system, including the
system, naturally.
spleen, tonsils, bone marrow, and
20
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
NUTRITION
SUPPLEMENTS
Boosting your immune system
Natural ingredients have been used
begins with the nutrients you are
for centuries already in the Eastern
putting into your body. Taking care
and Ayurvedic communities. Some
of your gut health may also have
of these include adaptogens, which
a direct impact on your immune
has now also been recognised in
health.
the Western culture as a powerful
Here are some foods you can
nootropic.
incorporate into your diet which
These natural ingredients include
will boost your immune system, as
the following:
well as your overall physical health, mental health, physical appearance and energy levels. • Foods that are rich in Vitamin C,
• American Ginseng • Gingko Leaf Powder • Bacopa Herb Powder • Turmeric Root Powder
such as spinach and other green
• Boswellia Serrata
vegetables.
• Ginger Root Extract
• Collagen rich foods such as bone broth. • Omega 3 fatty acids like coconut oil, hemp and chia seeds and salmon. • Mushrooms are high in polysaccharides that boost immune function.
• And many others. Titanium Living stocks a range of supplements that boasts these ingredients. Click HERE to view their range.
LIFESTYLE
• Probiotics rich food, such as miso
A healthy lifestyle has a massive
paste, promotes the growth of
positive impact on your immune
beneficial gut flora.
system’s health. Stress relief,
• Anti inflammatory foods such as
sunshine, a healthy diet, good
ginger, which aids the lymphatic
quality sleep, positive thinking and
system to cleanse toxins out of
practising good hygiene are all ways
the body.
to support your immune system.
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
21
“Boosting your immune system begins with the nutrients you are putting into your body.�
22
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
Every part of your body, including
as a person may use unhealthy
your immune system, functions
behavioral coping strategies to
better when protected from
reduce their stress, such as drinking
environmental assaults. The
and smoking.
following should be taken into consideration to maintain healthy immune function, especially if you are an immunocompromised individual.
The first step is to identify your triggers, or what makes you feel stressed. Notice the warning signs that you are becoming stressed; these may include muscle tension,
• Don’t smoke.
being irritable or tired. Address the
• Eat a rainbow of colors, daily.
stressors that can be changed, for
• Exercise regularly.
example stop following mainstream
• Maintain a healthy weight.
media, reduce time spent on social
• If you drink alcohol, do so only in
media platforms and consciously
moderation. • Get adequate sleep.
choose what you will allow in your life.
• Take steps to avoid infection, such as washing your hands frequently and avoid touching your face. • Minimise inflammation (stress).
STRESS When we’re stressed, the immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced. That is why we are more susceptible to infections. The stress hormone corticosteroid can
EXERCISE Regular exercise is one of the pillars of healthy living. It improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, helps control body weight, and protects against a variety of diseases. But does it help to boost your immune system naturally and keep it healthy?
suppress the effectiveness of the
Just like a healthy diet, exercise
immune system by lowering the
can contribute to general good
number of lymphocytes.
health and therefore to a healthy
Stress can also have an indirect effect on the immune system
immune system. It may contribute even more directly by promoting good circulation, which allows the www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
23
mechanisms of the immune system to function optimally in the body. Regular exercise can relieve tension, relax the mind and reduce anxiety. Deep breathing exercises, muscle relaxation exercises, yoga and meditation are some techniques that can relax the body and reduce stress. Following these guidelines cannot prevent you from getting illnesses and infections, but it does boost your chances of fighting it off naturally and avoiding the complications that may come with prescription medications. As Editor In Chief Elanya has shown, even immunocompromised individuals can live a healthy life. She has been a Type 1 Diabetic since the age of 8 years old, but has stayed healthy by following a healthy lifestyle and a strict supplement regime. As always, make sure you consult your healthcare practitioner should you have any serious concerns.
24
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
With the Titanium Confidence Bundle you can say goodbye to hiding away in your house, to feeling like you’re living in someone else’s body and to feeling like “this is just the way life is” and instead welcome feelings of joy and passion and happiness into your life. Your health is worth the investment, what are you waiting for?
click here
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
25
SUSAN JARVIS:
PLEASURE DURING PANDEMIC
Why You Shouldn’t Feel Guilty Regardless of gender, age, mobility
of celibacy and enabling her to
or size, Susan Jarvis champions
become intimate with her own
for a change in sex inclusivity.
desires, values and true self for the
Through her errotic online store,
first time.
The Spicy Boudoir, she aims to help others reconnect by exploring and liberating their sexual energy regardless of gender, age, mobility or size. Divorcing her husband of 14
“I would describe this time in my life as an existential awakening. I was interrogating my values and I could feel the wool lifting from my eyes,” Susan says.
years resulted in losing 40kg of
Today, she is committed to
unhappiness, ending many years
help strip away the stigma
26
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
and stereotypes to create an
who shares their innermost secrets
empowered community free to
with their best friend and to older
explore and express their sexuality.
lovers entwining their lives together
Her belief that the secret to
during widowhood.
achieving a full life stems from the connection to yourself and to those you love. It led Susan to open The Spicy Boudoir specifically for those who feel disconnected from themselves and/or their partner and/or life in general. It is an allinclusive space aimed at liberating sexual wellbeing from behind closed doors.
In today’s modern world, I believe that intimacy has evolved past our basic needs of food and shelter. We crave intimacy (sometimes consciously or unconsciously) with another human because we want to feel valued and connected in this very disconnected, modern world.
staying connected through a
Is there actually a physical benefit to being intimate with our partners and ourselves?
pandemic and why it’s okay to make
Intimacy is crucial to our mental
pleasure a priority, even during
wellbeing. Whether it’s the
uncertain times..
experience of intimate pleasure of
Why is intimacy so important?
our bodies or just the knowledge
We chat with Susan about lovers
that you are loved by someone, Intimacy is part of our nature and is a component of the ‘social glue’ that keeps us together. It harks back to our hunter and gather days when survival depended upon our ability to cooperate with each other. Intimacy is what drives connection. We all experience intimacy throughout the different stages of our lives, such as the close, affectionate interactions between parent and baby to the teenager
those sensations and thoughts generate the feel good chemicals of endorphins, oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin that we need to maintain stability. Our relationship with ourselves, our loved ones and those we work with all benefit. Many people equate intimacy as being purely physical, when in fact intimacy with another person is not reliant on touch. Conversations can
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
27
“Always communicate your feelings and leave your heart open to your partner.�
28
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
be the most intimate experience of
self or a partner. If you or your
our life. When talking about life, sex,
partner aren’t feeling desire to be
birth and death, we need excellent
sexual that is completely normal.
listening and communication
You can still be intimate with each
skills to ensure messages are
other and take comfort from each
not misinterpreted. We also need
other’s presence.
to develop our empathy and compassion to show understanding, respect and forgiveness.
Always communicate your feelings and leave your heart open to your partner. The experience of
The world would be a much better
COVID-19 has been extraordinary
place if society valued intimacy
and created stress environments at
more highly.
many different levels.
During recent times, many people have found that their physical intimacy has dwindled. Stress or close quarters can lower our libido, another reason could be guilt. What are your thoughts on pleasure during times like these? Should sex go on the backburner?
How can we overcome feelings of guilt about feeling pleasure during a pandemic?
COVID certainly has changed our
I suggest sitting with them and
lives. I firmly believe that we all
examining the structure of your
need pleasure in our life, it’s the
emotional response. Perhaps look
social lubricant of relationships
to see what you can do to help
and it gives us something to look
those who are less fortunate. If you
forward to when times are difficult.
find that your feelings of guilt are
We sometimes equate that sexual intimacy MUST involve intercourse. There are so many ways to enjoy
Guilt is a strange emotion but one that keeps us human and our behaviours in check. I think it is normal to feel guilt during the pandemic, or any disaster for that matter. To overcome your feelings
overwhelming you then it’s time to talk to your GP or mental health professional.
sexual intimacy, either with one’s
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
29
How would you recommend approaching your partner about spicing things up if you are feeling embarrassed? If I had a magic wand I would give
SUSAN’S TIPS TO MAINTAINING INTIMACY DURING DIFFICULT TIMES:
the entire population the gift of
You can do this one either lying
communication. If you find your
down or sitting up, you will need
sexual needs are not being met, you
pen and paper; clothing
need to speak up. Unfortunately, many of us feel shame for speaking up about our needs and secondary shame about discussing matters of a sexual nature. There are a couple
is optional: • Deep eye gazing. • No talking or touching, just deep…very deep…eye gazing. While you look into your
of ways to introduce conversations
partner’s eyes, remember the
indirectly to your relationship: one
early days of your relationship,
would be by playing games such as
when you first met, the
Fetish Fun Explore Kinky Satisfaction
important milestones, good and
and Bondage Action! (stocked by The Spicy Boudoir $39.95) and secondly through reading material
bad times. Keep gazing for as long as you can. When you can no longer refrain from touching or talking breakaway and write
such as “When someone you love is
down your feelings, doesn’t
kinky” by Dossie Eaton & Catherine
have to be in detail. Come
A. Liszt. Both of these activities can
back to each other and share
be great ice breakers. If you need help to improve your
those feelings. Reflect on your emotions. Kiss. Touch if needed. Appreciate each other.
sexual communication, working with
• Take turns for massage, either
a sexologist is highly recommended
hands or feet. My partner and I
to build communication and
lay head to toe on the bed and
interpersonal skills.
rub each other’s feet while we talk.
thespicyboudoir.com
• Cooking together and flirting up a storm in the kitchen.
Photo Credit: w w w. j o e l d e v e re u x . c o m
30
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
N E V E R
M I S S
A N
I S S U E
O F
Health Wisdom Magazine
S u b s c r i b e N o w A n d B e T h e F i r s t To Get Each New Issue
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
31
“With age comes the understanding and appreciation of your most important asset, your health.”
—Oprah Winfrey
32
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY APPETISERS TO PLEASE A CROWD
After months of solitude, there
CAROL’S HUMMUS
are so many great reasons to BBQ coming up, so gather the family,
cookloveshoot.com
neighbours and friends for a feast. Try these simple and delicious
Meet photographer and enthusiastic
recipes, which are not only anti-
home cook, Carol. With a passion for
inflammatory, but are super easy
sharing recipes this wife and mother
and taste far better than store-
of two shares some of the recipes
bought options.
from her childhood in South Africa.
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
33
DELICIOUSLY HEALTHY HUMMUS RECIPE This hummus is silky smooth and creamy and so easy to make!
INGREDIENTS: 1 tin of Organic Chickpeas ½ tsp baking soda ½ cup good quality tahini
speed blender. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as you go. 6. Add cold water a little at a time, depending on how thick you like your hummus, and blend to incorporate for about 5 minutes. 7. Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference. 8. Garnish and serve.
2 garlic cloves
NOTES:
½ tsp salt
1. Removing the skins, as well as
½ tsp cumin 3 Tbsp olive oil 2 Tbsp lemon juice ½ to ¾ cup cold water (depending on how thick you like your hummus) Olive oil, paprika, whole chickpeas, parsley or whatever you wish to garnish it with.
boiling the chickpeas results in a silky smooth consistency, whichyou usually only get using dried chickpeas. 2. Add a finely chopped chilli to the food processor (step 5) if you like it hot.
METHOD:
NUTRITION FACTS:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas and
Serving Size: 2 Tbsp Calories: 110 Sugar: 2g Fat: 6g Saturated Fat: 0g Carbohydrates: 14g
remove the skins. This is easily done by rolling the chickpeas in a clean kitchen towel. 2. Discard the skins and place the chickpeas in a pot of boiling water, with ½ tsp baking soda. 3. Cook for 8-12 minutes on mediumhigh heat until the chickpeas are soft. The baking soda raises the pH of the water and helps the chickpeas soften and soft chickpeas are essential for ultra smooth hummus. 4. Remove from heat, rinse and drain. 5. Add the chickpeas, tahini, garlic, salt, cumin, olive oil and lemon juice to a food processor or high34
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
MINI CAPRESE SKEWERS Makes: 12 Prep Time: 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS • 20 cherry tomatoes
METHOD Cut cherry tomatoes and bocconcini balls in half. Skewer the cherry tomatoes, bocconcini balls and basil leaves onto mini sewers.
• 20 baby bocconcini balls • fresh basil leaves, 1 for each skewer, depending on size
Pour the balsamic vinegar in a small bowl, or else drizzle the balsamic
• balsamic vinegar to serve
vinegar over the skewers.
• mini skewers
Refrigerate until ready to serve.
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
35
Working
FROM HOME by Elanya van Heerden
The work-from-home job force
be a considerable source of stress,
just grew a lot bigger from
especially during a pandemic, with
the current global coronavirus
some days even just settling down
pandemic. Thanks to ever-evolving
to focus and work being hard.
technologies like Skype, Facetime, Slack, Zoom, Google Hangouts, authenticator apps, and cloud computing—not to mention texting and email—it’s no longer necessary to be in an office full-time to be a productive member of a team. Working from home requires modifications to a traditional workday. The blending of responsibilities from two major areas of our lives, work and home, can
36
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
Editor In Chief, Elanya van Heerden, knows all too well about juggling work and family (in close quarters)! With a young family living, working and homeschooling together in a caravan as they travelled Australia last year, she had a little preparation for what was to come in 2020. “I actively choose what I watch on TV and who I follow on social media. I am very intentional with who I
spend my time with and what I do,”
a dedicated work space free from
Elanya says.
distractions, leisurely activities,
There are plenty of other ways to transition into your new normal with your sanity intact and productivity levels high and Elanya shares some of the things that worked well for her:
REPLICATE YOUR REGULAR WORK DAY We are programmed neurochemically to have basic daily cycles. When daily routines are disrupted, our neurological systems shift. The basics of a daily routine, including staying consistent with sleep/wake cycles, regular meals, exercise time, getting dressed for work and starting your work day are essential. So stick to your old schedule if you can. Consistency is the key, so if things have changed,
and household responsibilities. The distance created by separating the space can let you focus on a productive workday and allow you to “leave” the office when needed.
SELF CARE We need to practice self-care to stay motivated, productive, and healthy. Immerse your mind and body in activities that are not related to being “on duty”. Meditation, exercise, cooking, reading, conversations with friends and support systems, and a good sweat all have an effect on lowering cortisol and increasing a positive mood. Furthermore, as important as it is to stay informed, limit your exposure to upsetting news.
try to keep your new timetable the
AVOID WORK CREEP
same each day.
A career that lets you work from home can be invasive in
SEPARATE WORK AND LIFE ACTIVITIES Work-life boundaries are more important now than ever. Create a separation between activities that are work-related and those that are not. As much as possible, have
your personal life. With no real boundaries between the two it is easy to let the one creep into the other. Yes, the risk is real, but only if you let it. This goes back to setting work hours and sticking firmly to them (of course unless there’s the www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
37
38
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com
occasional work emergency that
eat healthy, and avoid too much
necessitates longer hours). At the
alcohol, sugar and caffeine. Taking
end of the day, shut down your
care of yourself in these ways is also
laptop, set your work app to “away,”
going to have a positive impact on
and shut your office door. You (and
your mental health.
your team, and your family) will be grateful. It helps to communicate clearly what times you can be reached and what times are off limits. This will avoid assumptions being made that you’re skipping the office or refusing contact.
BE THANKFUL FOR WORK Practice gratitude for your employment. Remind yourself of the reason that you do what you do. Think about your journey and accomplishments. In a time where unemployment rates are at an alltime high, you have an employer to report to. Convince yourself that you have a purpose, arise, go forth, and conquer!
KEEP UP YOUR GOOD PRACTICES While some people joke about binge-eating or drinking to manage the stress, it’s more important than
It’s a good idea to add some practices that may bolster mental health, such as starting each day with listing a few things for which you are grateful or some deep breathing exercises.
THE BOTTOM LINE Working from home can be exciting, empowering and even profitable. Whether you are a freelancer, a company part-timer, or a full-time employee, it can be your ticket to escape the daily grind. But there are added responsibilities that come with freedom, not to mention planning, foresight, self-discipline, and focus. Oh, yes, and hours of uninterrupted hard work. Follow Titanium Living on social media to see how Elanya van Heerden balances 2 careers, a family and staying healthy too! titaniumliving.com
ever to keep up your healthy habits. Stay hydrated, get some exercise and fresh air each day, if you can, www.healthwisdommagazine.com
|
39
Do You Have A Story To Share With Us? WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU…. Do you have a story you think our readers could learn from? Or Would you like to become a Health Wisdom contributor?
Visit us and share your story now 40
|
www.healthwisdommagazine.com