Hibernate AU Winter 2021 by Ryman Healthcare Ltd

Hibernate WINTER EDITION 2021

LAUGHING OUT LOUD with a Chief Happiness Officer.

WINTRY FISH DISHES and a fisherman’s adventures.

DRIED FLORAL DÉCOR is experiencing a resurgence.

d n u o r a r e h t a G e have some w to share stories

Welcome to our winter edition of Hibernate. Where we’re doing everything but hibernating! This season, we’re embracing all things upbeat, funny, and active. Because there’s no better time to find the brighter side of life than in winter. An interview with Laughter Yoga teacher Bronwyn Roberts sets the tone on page 4. With a combination of laughter and breathing exercises, Bron’s Laughter Yoga participants experience physical and mental health benefits. Sybil keeps us giggling on page 6 with her ‘why not?’ attitude. At 95 Sybil continues to take the bull by the horns, starring in TVs Gogglebox. Her passion for life is shared by Mal on pages 8-11. An avid fisherman, Mal loves nothing more than fishing the Murray River for cod. If you’re inspired by Mal’s passion for fishing, you’ll soon need some delicious fish recipes. Flip to pages 12 and 13 for mouth-watering dishes starring smoked salmon, crumbed salmon, and hoki en papillote. These healthy dishes also tick the ‘comfort food’ box. Pages 16-19 serve up a visual feast with slow living inspiration as we delve into the resurgence of dried flower crafts. Spend an afternoon weaving florals, seed pods, and greenery for boldly coloured, long-lasting décor. Plus, a handy guide to drying flowers and greenery the au naturel way. On page 20 we feature another indoor activity. Games night! Board games are a cosy way to spend a chilly evening with friends or family. They’re social, fun, and can be played near a heater. What more could you ask for? Layer up and grab a warm cup of something soothing because we’ve packed this edition of Hibernate with upbeat, interesting stories. We hope you have as much fun reading them as we did putting them together!

Kylie and the Ryman Healthcare team.

In this issue IT UP! 04 LAUGH Bron Roberts teaches Laughter Yoga. We joined her for a giggle! ASKS 06 SYBIL ‘WHY NOT?’ At 95, she’s embracing adventure on her own terms. CATCH 08 PERFECT Mal is right at home on the Murray River searching for its cod. IN 10 FISHING VICTORIA Have you ticked these fishing spots off your list?

COOKING WITH FISH 12 Comforting, nutritious fish dishes to warm up your chilly evening. STYLING 14 WINTER Layer up and keep warm in bold, vibrant fashion this season.

16 CREATING BEAUTIFUL SPACES We deep dive into the dried flower trend with stunning results. GAMES NIGHT 20 Board games, books, and TV reviews – we have winter evenings sorted.

Spreading giggles

Laugh

it up!

Bronwyn (Bron) Roberts spreads Laughter Yoga as the Chief Happiness Officer of Let’s Laugh.

But her journey here wasn’t filled with laughter. Emotionally drained after 12 years as her mother’s full-time carer, Bron knew she needed to make a change.

SESSIONS BEGIN WITH BRON JOYFULLY INTRODUCING WHAT THEY’RE GOING TO DO.

“First, I take the group through the shallow end of Laughter Yoga” with gentle stretching and breathing exercises “and we go deeper and deeper and deeper until we’re swimming in laughter and we’re having fun”. Bron works hard to create a safe, open space for her

The real deal

participants to play, have fun, and do it their own way. “I had a lovely chap recently from a mental health group who admitted that initially he didn’t want to get involved and was really nervous, but when he saw everyone else doing it he decided it must be safe.” It can be difficult to play and be silly as adults, but as Bron says, “play is important, play is vital.”

Laughter turned out to be her answer. A psychology degree, post-graduate diploma, and several specialist courses later, Bron is Australia’s only Certified Humour Professional.

Laughter Yoga began in the early 90s courtesy of Dr Madan Kataria. He was working as a medical doctor and writing papers for medical journals when he became interested in the growing body of evidence that laughter is highly beneficial for our health – both physical and mental. “Dr Kataria went to his local park and started telling jokes, but everyone had a different sense of humour and it didn’t quite work. So, he tried turning it into an exercise.” And Laughter Yoga was born. Bron began the Mitcham Community Laughter Group in Victoria thinking “I’ll give this a shot, but it won’t last”. 17 years later, the group still meets every Saturday. 4 | Hibernate

WHILE MANY PRACTITIONERS SUGGEST THAT FAKE LAUGHTER IS AS GOOD AS REAL LAUGHTER, BRON DISAGREES.

“From a neuroscience point of view, faking laughter doesn’t create the same chemicals.” So, how does she get a room full of uncomfortable adults to genuinely laugh? “I help people engage with their laughter.” From joyous conversation to silly comments and movements, Bron encourages her groups to look as silly as possible, “to let them find laughter themselves”.

“I found Laughter Yoga out of an extraordinarily difficult time and found that permitting myself to laugh – taking a deep breath, pulling my shoulders back, and giving myself 30 seconds to be happy – I could then get back to whatever was making me grumpy. All emotions are important and some days are just bad, but the more 30 seconds of laughter I had the less grumpy I felt.”

There are over 40 laughter clubs in Victoria. Find your nearest club at laughteryoga. org/finder/find-club/ Special thanks to Bronwyn Roberts, Chief Happiness Officer at Let’s Laugh. Visit letslaugh.com.au for more.

’ve run a laughter class in a hot air “ Iballoon. It was a bit distracting, to

be honest – we did a bit of laughter, but we kept looking at the landscape making ooh and aah sounds!

”

Body and mind RESEARCH AGREES THAT LAUGHTER POSITIVELY IMPACTS THE BODY AND MIND.

But while children laugh around 300 times a day, adults laugh 10-15 times. It’s a jarring comparison, and as Bron explains, “15 minutes of laughter a day will have a positive impact”. In the 12 years that Bron cared for her mother who suffered from depression and mental illness, she was in a perpetual state of fight or flight. “It wasn’t good for anyone – my kids, myself, or my mother. I was taught that caring for yourself is selfish, but it’s not. You have to care for yourself before you can care for others.” Then one day, Bron froze. “I took a deep breath, rolled my shoulders back, and a big smile appeared on my face.” The reaction took Bron by surprise, so she investigated

it and journaled the results. “I started to smile more, be happy more, and joke with my mum. She didn’t become any less dependent, but everything seemed easier, simpler.” And so began Bron’s Laughter Yoga journey.

Do try this

at home !

TAKE LAUGHTER YOGA FOR A TEST DRIVE WITH BRON’S INTRODUCTORY EXERCISES

START WITH A SMILE

I do this thing called ‘The Smile’ where I stop, roll my shoulders back, mindfully inhale, and just let a giggle out. Then exhale and start again.

TAKE NOTICE

REAL LAUGHTER

KEEP IT SIMPLE

One woman didn’t take to the club. I asked her to try again and to notice what made her laugh. She rang me late that night, delighted to tell me that she’d just found herself laughing at the radio – she had noticed her laughter!

Motivate yourself with playful directions. When you squat down, pretend you’re a jack in the box. When bending over, say hello to the ground instead of touching your toes, then laugh on the way up.

Start with simple strategies and build on them later. Small, incremental laughter right now will help you get started so that you can grow your laughter later.

Hibernate | 5

Why

Not? Sybil has lived a life without regret. And at 95, she’s still living it on her terms.

A resident at Ryman’s Bert Sutcliffe Village, Sybil is an avid painter, is known on a first-name basis at the local shops, and is a celebrity after starring on TV show Gogglebox.

Anything that I ever “ wanted to achieve,

I didn’t stand back and think about it. I just took the bull by the horns and gave it a go.

”

Sybil set off on her big OE in her early 20s. After 3 months in Australia she hopped on a plane across the Tasman “and started to ‘thumb it’ around New Zealand”. Hitchhiking with a friend in the 1940s meant “we had pickups galore and the people we met were so interesting and took us under their wing”. The pair were offered food and shelter everywhere they went. “We saw New Zealand like nobody’s seen it. And met people that you’d never meet otherwise.”

6 | Hibernate

Giving it a go

A TV celebrity in her 90s

STEPPING OUTSIDE THE COMFORT ZONE IS EASY FOR SYBIL – SHE DOESN’T HAVE ONE!

IN TRUE SYBIL STYLE, SHE SAID YES TO STARRING ON TV SHOW GOGGLEBOX.

“On VE night (Victory over Europe, 1945), we all roller skated to the top of Queen Street then coasted down toward the crowds of people yahoo-ing.”

Participants on Gogglebox have their reactions to watching TV recorded for our entertainment. And the shows creators had a lot of fun working with Sybil and her co-stars Myrtle and Maureen. They were seated in front of risqué clips of Fifty Shades of Grey and Naked Attraction.

A lifelong adventurer, Sybil’s children gift her experiences. “They know how crazy I am.” When they asked whether she would bungee jump off a skyscraper her reply came as no surprise. “Why not!?”

It all began in a Ryman village van where the driver overheard their comedic banter and suggested they apply for Gogglebox. Once the show aired, they became instant celebrities. “One day I was having coffee and this young lad in school gear asked if I’d mind him taking a picture. He said he was excited to tell his mates that he knows a lady from Gogglebox!”

Upon reaching the ledge she was told to turn and face outward. At a moment when many people get cold feet, Sybil simply asked what was next. “I just wanted to know when I could jump! So, he said 1-2-3 and I put one leg out in front of me and the next thing, I’m flying!” Once their children had flown the nest, Sybil and her husband “took off around the country and did gold panning – we went into bush we’d never seen before and crossed rivers we didn’t know”.

You’ve just gotta try it. You never know about anything “ and I mean ANYTHING – until you try it. ”

From fishing to painting SYBIL AND HER HUSBAND SALMON FISHED TO SPEND TIME AND SHARE AN INTEREST.

“We’d get up at four in the morning and find a possie. That was the rule, if you wanted the best spot you had to get up early to claim it!” After fishing for 2-3 hours, it would be time for a chat over tea and coffee. Sometimes with other fishing enthusiasts.

“Oh, it was a wonderful lifestyle. It was great doing the same thing – we didn’t need to go separate ways and that kept us together.” These days Sybil spends her downtime painting, having been taught by her talented sister over the internet. With a preference for still life oil painting, Sybil’s always on the lookout and snaps a photo whenever inspiration strikes. And she’s kept busy painting requests for her family. “The last thing I painted was a dog for two of my great-grandchildren who are way over in Perth.” Hibernate | 7

Threch for sea THE PERFECT CATCH

Mal has been fishing in fresh water since he was a teenager. For him, there’s no better place to spend a day casting than the Murray River. As a kid, he’d fish off a bridge or at the inlet to a lake, but these days he’s joined by his son and brother-inlaw. And the trio have turned fishing the Murray into a boating getaway. Situated close to the border of New South Wales and Victoria, the Murray River is Australia’s longest river at 2,508km. It’s home to many species of wildlife on the banks and in the water. Including its namesake; the Murray cod. Based in Melbourne, Mal says that going fishing isn’t a quick, one day adventure. “When we go and fish it’s around 250kms away, so it’s not just around the corner. A lot of the other rivers, especially in Victoria, are small and hard to fish in. Too hard to get the boat in and out of. But with the Murray, there are boat ramps to put the boat in, so that’s where we usually go.” But the trip is well worth it for Mal when he catches an elusive, perfectly sized Murray cod.

Visit our lifestyle blog rymanhealthcare.com.au/ lifestyle for more fishing tips.

8 | Hibernate

I remember my father “ buying my first fishing rod when I was a teenager. ”

Fishing on the Murray Mal is always on the lookout for an exemplary cod to reel in. “The thing with Murray cod is, you’ve only got a 20 centimetre window for catching them because they have to be between 55 and 75 centimetres long. So anything under that goes back in the river, and anything over that goes back in the river.”

They asked me what “ was wrong and I said

my lips were dry from kissing all the fish before putting them back in the river!

”

When combined with a daily catch limit of two per person, the Murray cod is a challenging fish to catch.

“Last time, we fished for a number of days and we only caught one at the right size. So all the others went back in the river.” He laughs that on those occasions, he gets particularly chapped lips from kissing all the fish goodbye before returning them to the water. Jokes aside, Mal warns that the Murray needs to be taken seriously. And many of its dangers are not immediately apparent.

are a lot “ ofThere trees that fall

into the river and lay on the river bed for years – so you have to be careful.

”

When the fun is the challenge For Mal, fishing isn’t about quantity. It’s about the challenge, being outdoors, and enjoying the scenery. “It’s a challenge, it’s a good sport. I don’t mind putting them back in. If you catch one or two that are of size, you take them – but you can’t be greedy.” He concedes that there are probably better fish out there, but the thing he enjoys most is the challenge of catching the Murray cod.

Respecting the river “The Murray is dangerous in places, you can’t be silly or go out screaming down the river in your boat hoping you don’t hit something like a log,” he warns. The ever-present threats posed by the Murray are why Mal and his fishing companions don’t wade into the water, preferring to stay inside the boat. But the dangers of the Murray won’t keep Mal away. An avid outdoorsman, you can find Mal playing bowls and golf, or off to the gym during winter. And although his wife Marj doesn’t enjoy fishing, Mal says that she does enjoy eating what he catches. “Just fillet them then dip them in egg and bread crumbs, or something like that. Then straight in the pan. They don’t take long to cook.” Special thanks to Mal, avid fisherman and resident at Ryman’s John Flynn Village. Hibernate | 9

Fish your way around

Victoria

It’s no secret that we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to fishing spots! Whether you’re into fly fishing, surf casting, or deep sea wrangling, you’ll find it all a short drive from home. We’ve put together some of our favourite spots to get you started. And remember – the closer you hold the fish to your camera lens, the bigger it will look!

BARWON HEADS

Barwon Heads is home to some of Victoria’s best fishing spots. Located on the southern coast of the Bellarine Peninsula, this quaint township promises activity and scenery around every corner. Fish for salmon and you’ll rarely come up empty-handed. Or charter a boat out to Bass Strait to experience deep sea fishing. But note that if you’re fishing from Barwon Heads Bluff, a marine sanctuary, restrictions may apply.

ANGLESEA

An hour and a half from central Melbourne, Anglesea lends itself to a weekend getaway. Located at the entrance to Great Ocean Road, Anglesea boasts clean beaches and sizable estuary systems. That gives you the choice of fishing from land or by boat. All while enjoying breathtaking views. Here you’ll find salmon, snapper, leather jackets, trevally, garfish, flathead, bream, and mullet. And beach fishing at night might just see you reel in a gummy shark.

10 | Hibernate

BOSTOCK RESERVOIR

This is no secret fishing spot, but it might be the next best thing as few fishers know it exists. Drop a line into Bostock Reservoir for rewarding trout fishing and enjoy the family-friendly surrounding area. The fishing here is shore only. No boats or waders are allowed, the use of berley is prohibited, and catch and release of native species is encouraged while European carp must not be thrown back. And lastly, be wary of snakes.

SORRENTO PIER

This historic pier, originally constructed in 1870, is where ‘the one that got away’ is probably hiding. Paradise for fish and a popular spot for anglers, come here in search of whiting, squid, snapper, salmon, and other species. And once you’ve finished fishing, you can take your pick from nighttime snorkeling, boating, kayaking, golfing, and watching hordes of spider crabs. Or tour the region for wineries, lighthouses, mazes, playgrounds, and more.

BRIMBANK PARK

ALTONA PIER

You’ll find this popular trout fishing spot at the outer reaches of Maribyrnong River. Here, you can fish from the bank, a kayak, or dangle a line off the jetty.

The pier at Altona is an incredibly popular fishing spot during peak summer hours. Or anytime the sun is shining and the water is calm. The trick is to arrive early to avoid the crowd. Thankfully, car parking is readily available and the pier hosts a variety of fish species starring flathead and pinkies. You’ll also find bream, snapper, and King George whiting if you’re patient.

Not only will you find trout in the water, if you cast a jiggling lure you just might reel in a redfin or carp as well. But be wary of snakes throughout the park.

Be aware of other anglers to avoid tangling your lines and tread carefully as the pier can get slippery.

Visit our lifestyle blog rymanhealthcare.com.au/ lifestyle for more winter bucket list ideas. Hibernate | 11

Enjoy a

Fish-Filled Warm up with these satisfying fish dishes! Comfort food for the soul, fish is also great for your heart, brain, and autoimmune system. Special thanks to Chef Troy of Ryman's Diana Isaac Village for his fish cooking skills and food styling flair.

Asian-Inspired Hoki En Papillote  SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

225g hoki (skinned and boned) 4 peppercorns 2 red onions 25g ginger

2 stalks coriander 1 lime 30g butter 1 bok choy

2 red chillies

Baking paper cut into 2x30cm squares

2 kaffir lime leaves

Salt, to taste

1 stalk lemon grass METHOD

Slice the limes and ginger, deseed and chop the red chillies. Cut the red onions into cubes. Set aside.

2. Wash and separate the bok choy, then crush the lemon grass to release the fragrance, and combine. 3. Spread butter on the baking paper and place the fish on top of a bed of bok choy. 4. Top the fish with the lime and ginger slices alternatively. Top with the remaining ingredients and fold the baking paper into a parcel. 5. Cook the parcel in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10 minutes. 6. Serve in the paper.

12 | Hibernate

Smoked Salmon Terrine  SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS

100g cold smoked salmon 400g hot smoked salmon 125ml cream

Zest of 2 lemons 15g fresh dill 1 cucumber Toasted bread, to serve

125g butter METHOD

Line a terrine mould with cling wrap and layer with slices of cold smoked salmon.

2. Clarify the butter by melting it and separating the milky residue. Mix the butter with warmed cream. 3. Blend the hot smoked salmon and lemon zest in a food processor and add the butter and cream mixture slowly to form a smooth paste. 4. Pour the paste into the mould and fold over the smoked salmon to cover the mixture. Seal the terrine with cling wrap. 5. Leave in the fridge to set overnight. 6. Slice with a warm knife and serve with toasted ciabatta or baguette and thinly sliced cucumber and chopped dill.

 Panko Crumbed

Salmon

INGREDIENTS

Zest of 2 lemons

1 pinch smoked paprika 1 garlic clove

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

50g Italian parsley, finely chopped

1/2 cup pistachios

Salt, to taste

1/4 cup panko

Lemon slices, to serve

50g grated parmesan

METHOD

SERVES 4

500g salmon fillet, skin on and pin-boned

If you’re new to eating fish, these “ recipes are perfect for dipping your toes in the water! ” Place the lemon zest, pistachios, parmesan, garlic, parsley, and panko in a food processor and blend to make a crumb.

2. Place the salmon fillet on a baking tray lined with baking paper. 3. Brush the salmon with Dijon mustard. 4. Spread the crumb over the salmon and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15-20 minutes. 5. Garnish with lemon slices.

Don’t stop now! Our lifestyle blog rymanhealthcare.com.au/ lifestyle is bursting with delicious fish recipes. Hibernate | 13

All Rugged up

Anna had a blast modelling a jacket for every wintry occasion. The Charles Upham Village resident said that she wouldn’t have pulled this selection off the rack herself, but by the end of her photoshoot she loved the bold pieces. Personal stylist Abby Button was behind Anna’s colour-filled looks. Cold weather is often an excuse for dark clothing shades, but not on Abby’s watch! Vibrant fashion choices are her go-to when adding visual interest and joy to an outfit.

special jacket can “ Abrighten even the

chilliest winter day!

”

Complementary colours  MOTHER NATURE HERSELF INSPIRED THIS COSY WARM-TONED LOOK.

Wrap yourself in bold shades of coral, amber, and ochre. They’re sure to elicit a smile from every mirror you pass! If you prefer the cooler end of the spectrum, try colours like olive, dusty pink, and violet.

Visit our lifestyle blog rymanhealthcare.com.au/ lifestyle for more cosy fashion ideas. 14 | Hibernate

Mix and match WHY NOT STROLL BRAVELY THROUGH LIFE IN A FABULOUS DAY SUIT?

For the ultimate in playful sophistication, look no further than a matching jacket and pant combination. Heavily patterned, of course! Pluck a single colour from the outfit to accessorise for a fun pattern break.

 Crop it FLATTER HIGH-WAISTED PANTS AND SKIRTS WITH A SHORTER JACKET LENGTH.

A versatile number for the winter wardrobe, a cropped jacket will easily switch from casual to dressy. And can even be worn as a cardigan on warmer days.

e’re saying goodbye “W to dark, bulky layers

this season. And hello to quality fabrics in bold colours!

”

 Feeling snug THE OVERSIZED FLUFFY COLLAR IS WHERE WARMTH AND FASHION COLLIDE!

Formerly the domain of Hollywood starlets, the fluffy collar is back in fashion. Long collars offer glam and elegance while shorter collars like this one blend high fashion and everyday practicality with stunning results.

 The active jacket LOOK CASUALLY COOL FROM THE PARK TO YOUR LOCAL CAFÉ.

There’s no need to farewell style when you’re ‘just ducking to the shops’ or out enjoying some fresh air. Stylish puffer jackets offer both fashion and protection from the elements. Special thanks to Abby Button, colour expert and personal stylist. And our model, Ryman resident Anna. Hibernate | 15

The d ied flowe

COMEBACK Unique, natural, and everlasting, dried flowers are experiencing a resurgence. Popular in the 70s and 80s, today’s arrangements have stepped outside the confines of a vase and are popping with colour.

16 | Hibernate

Hanging flo als fo

NATURAL DÉCOR Drying flowers is almost too easy. If you have twine and a warm, dry, dark cupboard, you’re good to go. While it can take 3–4 weeks for foliage to completely air-dry, the process of foraging, cutting, and hanging doesn’t take long and is plenty of fun. When selecting your flowers, include some that haven’t fully bloomed. Flower heads continue opening as they dry, creating a beautiful array of shapes and sizes. When preparing your stems, it’s ok to keep some leaves because they’ll also dry. But when you bunch your stems, be careful that the leaves aren’t so dense that they obstruct airflow. If they do, mould will quickly follow! Firmly tie twine or string around the base of your stems and hang them from a coat hanger or rail in a warm, dry, dark cupboard or garage. Wait 3–4 weeks until your florals are completely dry, then arrange them beautifully and lightly hairspray for protection. When displayed out of sunlight in a temperate environment, a dried flower arrangement can last years without water, pruning, or replacement. All that’s left for you to do is smile proudly at your florals each time you pass by.

A flo al history

Flowers, leaves, and seed pods have been dried throughout history. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and Japanese all share historical practices of drying flowers for aromatic, medicinal, and symbolic purposes. During heightened levels of trade in the 18th century, the Victorians began practising oshibana, an art form practised worldwide today. Originating in Japan in the 16th century, oshibana is the delicate art of using pressed natural materials like flowers, leaves, and seed pods to create an entire picture. It was once practised as a discipline by samurai warriors to promote patience, harmony with nature, and enhance concentration. Which are three great reasons to try your hand at pressing flowers this winter.

flowers have a gravity to them. “ Dried People are drawn to them. ”

Creating beautiful spaces

Step 1: Identify a space in your home that could use some love. An empty corner, a dining table, a blank wall. Just make sure it’s shaded as sunshine will bleach your dried flowers.

MODERN DRIED FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS STRIVE FOR THE PERFECT BALANCE OF SOPHISTICATED AND WHIMSICAL .

Step 2: Note the types of foliage required for your space. Tall, thin, or voluminous? Dainty and soft or sharply textured? Would a pop of mustard yellow suit or is dusty pink a better fit?

If you’re feeling crafty, why not try your hand at dried floristry? This could be as simple as drying a few boughs of eucalyptus before standing them in a tall vase for a dramatic statement. Or as complex as a wall-hung wreath, flush with dainty seed pods and textured foliage for volume and visual interest.

Step 3: Source fresh leaves, flowers, and seed pods that suit your requirements then hang them upside down somewhere warm, dry, and dark until dried. Step 4: It’s time to get crafty! Spread your foliage across a table and play with different combinations to create the perfect mix of colour, volume, and texture. Step 5: Settle in and enjoy your creation for years to come. Especially the colours as they ‘antique’ in tone over time. Hibernate | 17

Cut

Make the

Protea Proteas are a popular go-to. King proteas and all varieties of queen protea dry well and make for a bold statement flower.

INTRODUCING YOUR NEW GO-TO FOLIAGE FOR DRYING AND ARRANGING.

Banksia These come from the same family as Proteas and are native to Australia. Banksia flowers are beautiful once dry.

Hare’s Tail Grass

Also called bunny tails, these fluffy little numbers can be found over summer. Simply bunch a handful in a vase and they’re a statement on their own.

Hydrangea Hydrangeas are an easy to dry flower. Due to their size, they’re a popular go-to for bouquets and large-scale installations.

Eucalyptus Foliage-wise, there are a few varieties of eucalyptus. Silver dollar and baby blue are popular for their leaf shapes. And they look almost the same dried as they do fresh.

Lunaria (Honesty) Honesty seed pods are translucent and very papery. They make a bold statement when added sparingly to wreaths and bouquets.

Magnolia Don’t go past dried magnolia leaves. They have a beautiful rust colour on the underside that adds visual interest.

The muted tones you get over time, or ‘antiquing’, “ beautifully evolves how dried florals look in your space. Locally sourced

& hand d ied

A SHORT GARDEN STROLL WILL PROVIDE EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR A DRIED FLORAL CREATION.

Special thanks to Mama Bloom for our dried flower images. 18 | Hibernate

Dried flower arranging calls for a variety of foliage. Large magnolia leaves provide sturdy structure, hydrangea heads add colour and scale, while poppy pods offer whimsical texture. If you’re unsure whether a flower will dry well, there’s only one way to find out! It’s best to embrace trial and error when it comes to drying foliage. Some

”

plants appear remarkably unchanged once dry, like eucalyptus leaves and seed pods. Others, like roses, take on a stunning crushed velvet look. Keep an eye out for nigella pods from the love-in-amist flower – they have plenty of attitude! And GI VE I T look no further than A GO! gypsophila – also Hang bunches of flowers known as baby’s breath upside down in a warm, – for a dainty ‘filler’. dry, dark place until they have dried.

D ied flowe

Letter decoration Follow these steps to craft a beautiful piece of floral décor, courtesy of Sarah from Mama Bloom. All you need is a wooden letter, a glue gun, dried moss, and a collection of dried flowers and seed pods.

Modern dried “ flowers are all about colour and texture!

”

View the full steps and instructional video for this craft at rymanhealthcare.com.au/lifestyle

07 Hibernate | 19

Teamwork with plenty of laughs Pandemic 2-4 PLAYERS

Published in 2008, Pandemic is more popular than ever. In this strategic board game, a series of fictional virulent diseases are sweeping the globe. Players must work as a team using the skill sets of their characters to contain the diseases. The highlight of this game is the teamwork required to overcome the challenge.

A BOARD GAME NIGHT IN

is the new night out Winter often dampens the idea of spending an evening out. But hibernation shouldn’t mean the end of your social calendar. Now’s the time to invite guests over for a cosy night in. And perhaps a splash of mulled wine! Game nights are being enjoyed across Victoria. People of all ages are gathering to play games and have a laugh. Local pubs are even stocking games for their regulars to enjoy over a pint. And board games are leading the charge. Unique in their ability to create a social atmosphere, board games often have everyone around the table engaged. Simple, challenging, sociable, and strategic. Games that are perfect for a cosy winter gathering.

Visit our lifestyle blog rymanhealthcare.com.au/lifestyle for more winter bucket list ideas! 20 | Hibernate

Wavelength 2-12 PLAYERS

For less strategy and plenty of laughter try Wavelength, ‘the telepathic party game’. Ideal for larger groups, two teams compete to read each other’s minds. It pays to put some thought into your teams and perhaps have close friends and partners on the correct side so that you’re not on the same wavelength when you begin!

Photosynthesis 2-4 PLAYERS

The whole family will enjoy this one. Beautiful and simple, Photosynthesis uses strategy and easy logic. Players compete to plant tree seeds in the forest where they grow by absorbing sunlight. Once grown, trees are harvested for points. The sun revolves around the forest so plant carefully and you might just block your competition’s sunlight!

A date with a comfy chair Your favourite hot drink and an enthralling book are the perfect me-time ingredients.

What to watch T H I S W I NT ER

The Midnight Library AUTHOR: MATT HAIG

A recent winner of the Goodreads Choice Award for Fiction, The Midnight Library is a feel-good read. Nora Seed is regretful and alienated when she discovers a library of infinite books. Each telling the story of a life she could have lived had she taken another path. Nora’s dazzling journey of discovery is guaranteed to lift the spirits as she explores what makes life worth living.

NETFLIX SERIES

Bloodline

Thriller, 3 seasons Four adult siblings have their past secrets revealed when their blacksheep brother returns to the family home in the Florida Keys.

Greenlights

AMAZON PRIME SERIES

Academy Award winner Matthew McConaughey’s memoir debuted at number one on the New York Times non-fiction bestseller list. Filled with anecdotes recorded by McConaughey throughout his life, Greenlights details how he ‘found himself’ through a process of elimination. His recorded experiences offer readers insight into how his life has been shaped and the choices he has made to become who he is.

Drama, 3 seasons

AUTHOR: MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY

Sneaky Pete Upon being released from prison, a conman assumes the identity of his cellmate who is still behind bars.

MOVIE

Days of the Bagnold Summer Comedy, 86 mins

Blue Moon by Lee Child

Me by Elton John

The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

A charming coming-of-age story in which Daniel, a heavy metal-loving teenager, is forced to spend the summer holidays with his librarian mother.

Photos from neighbourhood pub Moon Under Water. Hibernate | 21

Puzzles

best served with coffee

Enjoy some time out and a little brain work while you’re at it. The leaves have fallen, our days are shorter, and your slippers are probably woollier. While there’s plenty to do outside this season, sometimes a quiet day indoors is just what you need. Why not take this opportunity to kick up your feet and relax with some brain teasers? After all, a little me-time never hurt anybody. WORD BUILDER

How many words of three or more letters, including plurals, can you make from the six letters, using each letter only once?

WORD SEARCH

Find the words hidden below – backwards, forwards, up, down, or diagonally.

S E H E A T E R X P G S I C E Q D F

R S C A R F Y A J F N Z N R J W U S

S E F D H P Y B T S A C R E V O M Q

T P V A P F B S L A M R E H T H M Y

V T I I O R I M E E U W Q G D T E S

Y L N X H O Z H P N A W U Y G N I M

E B M C R S A S K Y U K L C L U I M

N Z E D S T M Q K O S L E E T H S W

M S R W C A B S I E B L A N K E T T

I O I C I C L E L E G N I Z E E R F

H U N R U E R F I B S C T C C O A T

C P O K I Q S M G U M B O O T S G V

R A L D J D N T N L Q T C K M V N H

D A O F A X O F U D O G Q O J F I L

H O I T C E W S X K Q V F U L E I R

H A R N K O Y R A E R D E A M D K P

K K T P E U M B R E L L A S X F S P

P H A L T E C A L P E R I F S S J X

BLANKET

FREEZING

HEATER

NIPPY

SNOW

BLEAK

FROST

HOODIE

OVERCAST

SOUP

CHIMNEY

GLOVES

ICE

RAIN

THERMALS

COAT

GUMBOOTS

ICICLE

SCARF

UMBRELLA

There’s at least one six-letter word.

COLD

GUST

JACKET

SHIVER

WIND

10 = Good 16 = Very Good 22+ = Excellent

DREARY

HAIL

MERINO

SKIING

FIREPLACE

HAT

MITTENS

SLEET

No foreign words or words beginning with a capital are allowed.

22 | Hibernate

SUDOKU

Fill in the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9.

1 4

5 2 3 1 4 4 8 6 7 2 3 5 8 3 6 2 4 8 1 1 7 5 9 3 5 7 4 8 1 7 8 5 6 3 9 8 EASY

1 4 9 8 7 6 5 2 3 8 3 6 4 2 5 7 1 9 7 2 5 3 9 1 4 8 6

7 4 8 3 9 7

2 6 5

1 2

9 4 6 4 5 6 3 2 9 5 1 3 8 9 MEDIUM

8 5 7 9 6 4 3 1 2 9 2 3 1 7 8 6 5 4 1 4 6 2 3 5 9 7 8

5. Fortresses (7)

9. Lets up (5)

13. Resources (5)

15. Sulphur (9)

ACROSS

18. Burial (9)

1. Limp (7)

19. Furnishings (5) 1. Liberty (7) 2. Aide (9) 21. Subject (5)

10. Life story (9) 23. Tiny amount (9)

11. Rebel (9) 25. Overjoyed (9)

12. Spokes (5)

26. Military fabric (5)

27. Enigma (7)

28. Idea (7) DOWN

3. Social class (5)

WORD WHEEL

8. Horizon (7)

16. Essential (9)

17. Fluctuate (9)

4. O pen to doubt 18. Provisional (7) or discussion (9) 20. Pragmatist (7) 5. Singing 22. Metal tubes (5) group (5) 23. Gaudy (5) 6. Startled (9) 24. Symbol (5) 7. Bounded (5)

Insert the missing letter to complete an eight-letter word reading clockwise or anticlockwise Solution 1: ARBORIST Solution 2: FLOUNCES Solution 3: HEADLINE

28 N Z E D S T M Q K O S L E E T H S W

M S R W C A B S I E B L A N K E T T

I O I C I C L E L E G N I Z E E R F

H U N R U E R F I B S C T C C O A T

C P O K I Q S M G U M B O O T S G V

R A L D J D N T N L Q T C K M V N H

D A O F A X O F U D O G Q O J F I L

E B M C R S A S K Y U K L C L U I M

Y L N X H O Z H P N A W U Y G N I M

H O I T C E W S X K Q V F U L E I R

H A R N K O Y R A E R D E A M D K P

K K T P E U M B R E L L A S X F S P

P H A L T E C A L P E R I F S S J X

23 4 3 2 1 5 9 8 7 6

9 6 5 7 4 8 1 2 3

EASY

1 8 7 6 2 3 4 9 5

V T I I O R I M E E U W Q G D T E S

T P V A P F B S L A M R E H T H M Y

18 17

WORD WHEEL :

27 16

S E F D H P Y B T S A C R E V O M Q

22 15

R S C A R F Y A J F N Z N R J W U S

8 4 3 5 6 2 9 1 7

7 2 9 8 3 1 6 5 4

6 5 1 4 9 7 3 8 2

5 7 4 9 8 6 2 3 1

2 1 8 3 7 4 5 6 9

3 9 6 2 1 5 7 4 8

5 2 4 1 3 7 8 9 6

7 3 6 8 9 2 4 5 1

9 1 2 7 8 3 6 4 5

6 7 3 5 1 4 9 8 2

MEDIUM

8 9 1 4 5 6 7 2 3

4 8 5 6 2 9 3 1 7

3 6 9 2 4 5 1 7 8

1 5 7 9 6 8 2 3 4

2 4 8 3 7 1 5 6 9

9 6

2 9

S E H E A T E R X P G S I C E Q D F

WORD SEARCH:

11 6

For, fort, forts, forty, fro, frost, FROSTY, fry, oft, rosy, rot, rots, soft, softly, sort, sot, soy, story, sty, tor, tors, toy, toys, troy, try, tyro, tyros.

WORD BUILDER :

9 4

Across: 1. Flaccid, 5. Castles, 9. Eases, 10. Biography, 11. Dissenter, 12. Radii, 13. Means, 15. Brimstone, 18. Interment, 19. Decor, 21. Topic, 23. Scintilla, 25. Rapturous, 26. Khaki, 27. Mystery, 28. Concept. Down: 1. Freedom, 2. Assistant, 3. Caste, 4. Debatable, 5. Choir, 6. Surprised, 7. Loped, 8. Skyline, 14. Stricture, 16. Intrinsic, 17. Oscillate, 18. Interim, 20. Realist, 22. Pipes, 23. Showy, 24. Token.

13 3

CROSSWORD :

21 2

7 5 2 38 1 6 1 2 5 7 2 4 8 6 4 8 5 6 3 4 2 4 8 1 3 9 4 5 9 1 7 5 7 6 3 4 8 1 3 5 7 9 5 1 7 8 SUDOKU: 8 5 6 3 9 83 4 3 5 8

1 4

CROSSWORD SOLUTIONS

14. Restraint (9)

RETIRE MEANS WITHDRAW, RETREAT, PULL BACK.

Not this generation.

There’s a new generation pioneering what it means to live in retirement. And they’re making the most of every moment. They’re trying new things and rediscovering passions that were lost when responsibilities took over. They’re enjoying freedom, independence, and relaxing into creativity. We want to help them do it. That’s why we’re pioneering a new way of living for a new retirement generation.

rymanhealthcare.com.au