Together, Apart | Issue 1

Together, Apart.

Flourish in self-isolation

Stay home Brisbane IS SU E 1 | 2 0 2 0

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

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CONTENTS

10

SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK

34

TRY THIS AT HOME

The #2 styling tip is so true!

Read this when you’re feeling a little blah!

46

DELIVERABLE BITES Picnic in the living room, anyone?

4 | TOGETHER, APART

38

12 SIMPLE WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR IMMUNITY Have you added these to your #IsoRoutine yet?

IS CORONAVIRUS CHANGING THE WAY WE WORK? The burning question on everyone’s mind.

28

24

YOUR DAILY RITUALS Get into the groove and weigh up the pros and cons.

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6 | TOGETHER, APART

STYLE Magazines

This special edition is lovingly brought to you by the Style crew.

For advertising, partnership and editorial enquiries, please contact: TRACY SINCLAIR tracy@stylemagazines.com.au 0408 763 055 COURTNEY FRANK courtney@stylemagazines.com.au 0408 017 416 MADELINE SMITH madeline@stylemagazines.com.au 0432 829 230

CONNECT WITH US

All material appearing in Together, Apart is copyright. While every effort is made to ensure information is correct at time of publication, no responsibility is accepted by Style Magazines for the accuracy of any information contained in the text or advertisements. All material copyright 2020 to Style Media. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part, either electronically or conventionally, without the express written permission of Style Magazines is strictly prohibited.

ISSUE 1 | STYLEMAGAZINES.COM.AU | 7

Editor’s Letter

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Ride the rollercoaster, then flourish

ike everyone, I’ve been strapped into the COVID-19 rollercoaster and have felt every emotional twist, turn, loop and drop. To describe my state of mind these past few weeks in rollercoaster terms, it’s been a looping corkscrew.

But several weeks on, I’ve come to terms with it all and realised that so much of this situation is simply out of my control. Not that I haven’t tried to fight it! At first I was focussed on coming up with new income streams and ways to ‘transform’ the business, protect my staff, my home and our beautiful lifestyle. But, there were bigger things to worry about – my daughter and her partner living in London, the health of my hubby who is potentially vulnerable to this thing, my son and his partner relocating from Sydney to Byron and starting new jobs, and my youngest son... how on earth do I encourage a 20-something living with his best mates to socially distance and not party their way out of this chaos?

Yet, we got through all of that and did what we had to do as a family. We focussed on the things that mattered most at that time. And no doubt, we’ll work through any future surprises and issues that may arise. [Universe, please note, we have had enough though].

And like every stomach-turning negative g-force on a rollercoaster, there’s the magic highs and positive-g’s that have you laughing your guts out. And I’ve had a lot of that. FaceTime, Skype and HouseParty have kept me connected to family, friends and work colleagues. Friends of a [cough] certain age and I have screeched with laughter over those stupid face filters during virtual wine time.

So, I’ve simply surrendered to the VID. I’ve used this time to enjoy the simple things in life, like ride my pushy every day, listen to music I love, plan next steps for Style with fresh eyes and be grateful for what I have. Self-isolation itself hasn’t been difficult for me. It’s allowed me time to reset, rejuvenate and rest. I’m one of the lucky ones who can feel safe at home, has family to love, food and fresh air. I’m not going to put crazy expectations on myself. I’m not going to feel guilty for some days doing nothing. I’m going with the ebbs and flows. I’m conscious of my mental health. I could be doing more with my physical health (but couldn’t we all).

Which brings me to this special edition, Together, Apart. A magazine dedicated to helping you get through these challenging times with tips, advice and inspo. We are so grateful to local business people who have shared their words of wisdom and in particular we would like to thank Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, The Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce and Councillor Vicki Howard for their encouraging words and support. We also appreciate the ongoing support of this edition’s magazine partner, Brisbane BMW. We are all in this together — it’s becoming increasingly clear. So, I hope there’s something inside this issue that helps you and your family to flourish.

TRACY SINCLAIR | @styletracy 8 | TOGETHER, APART

ST. AGNI @stagnistudio Photography

CLAUDIA SMITH @smithclaudia

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10 | TOGETHER, APART

YOUR SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK With all the coronavirus chaos, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Consider the following your new c-words, with a very different connotation.

Words

DINUSHKA GUNASEKARA AND GEORGIE MURRAY

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calm Keep calm… you know the rest

Hello from self-isolation! If you’re anything like us you’ll be reading this at home sprawled out on the sofa, wondering how this pandemic is even real.

How life went from speeding along a million miles a minute to the maximum distance being from the couch to the fridge. Before self-isolation all we spoke about was time. ‘I’m busy, sorry, I don’t have time for that’ or ‘Maybe I’ll do that when I get some more time’, and you used all your 11:11s, fallen eyelashes and blown-out candles to hope for one thing: that life would just pause. Layoff.

Give you a break. Well, now it has and we have no idea what we should be doing with it! And that kind of freaks us out.

Well, this is a little reminder that you don’t have to do anything with this time except take it day by day and just get through it! Do as much as or as little as you like because calm is the only mode to be in. Napping, breathing exercises, meditation and walks will help you bring the chill vibes, but if they’re not your cuppa tea, then that’s completely fine too. There is time and this is yours, so spend it however you’d like. Tick-off that list of movies

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that’s only been growing, dust off the unread books sitting on your shelf or, just be. Exist. The world will keep on turning, but, for right now, you don’t have to keep up. The only item on your agenda is to find your Zen and thrive in it.

With a care in the world

Check-in on your mates. And if there’s a loose end, tie it up. Care for yourself. Care for your family.

Care for your friends. Care for your neighbours.

And maybe even spare a care for your foes. Caring is a strength – emotional connections may create a potential bridge for pain, but it’ll have to make its way past the happiness marching through on the daily. So, show your appreciation to those who are part of the equation that equals your life, no matter how integral or mundane their role.

What’s happening in the world may be grim, but the measures being taken are merely proof that the world cares. Did it have to take a pandemic to make it happen? Well, it wasn’t the ideal scenario, but here we are, and we care. You may be surprised to realise how many people make your life full, until you are made to take a step back, 1.5 metres away from them.

com 12 | TOGETHER, APART

cope Communication station It’s an important value in life generally and one in which many of us find difficult, despite communication being more accessible than ever.

Put down the paper cups and string, it’s time to get real about communicating with others and importantly, with yourself. Especially for those who are working from home! The powers at be notice your communication skills, believe us. So, stay connected and let people know where your head’s at. The saying goes ‘communication is key’ and we hate to admit how spot on it is. Once you rattle the key, give it a little to the left, bit more to the right, the door can swing open.

Send that email, check-in with your colleagues, make that phone call you’ve been putting off.

If you’re not reaching out and talking to those around you for their sake, do it for yours.

Saying something out-loud, even to yourself, is considered communication and it 100% counts.

Looking for creative inspiration? Put it out into the universe. As soon as you do you’ll notice relevant things popping up. Funny how that works. And need we mention FaceTime? Zoom? Skype? That one should be a no-brainer. Body language, while not the easiest to read through video, is a hell of a lot easier to read than through the phone.

Download them and communicate virtually, at the very least.

Simply, just cope The current situation we’re enduring is uncharted.

We’re rolling with the waves, a swell that changes daily. And, with that, it’s important that we all understand it’s okay, not to be okay. The ocean is unpredictable, kind of like the pandemic. It’s okay to simply just cope and take each day as it comes. Whether it be a job loss, personal loss or general anxiety, it’s okay to feel deflated, lost and experience a sense of grief. Because this is a loss and you’re not alone – the numbers show that.

A loss of routine, a loss of connection, a loss of work, a loss of life. The silver lining of simply just coping is that every day is an achievement. Every day, you’ve succeeded in something – whether it be a minor decision, taking action, being able to have a laugh or using a mechanism to relieve stress that you’ve been practicing. There are so many successes that can happen within 24 hours and a whole lot more to hit out of the park in the 24 after that. Wake-up and hit reset and if the reset doesn’t quite work properly, try it again the next day. If you’re coping, you’re not failing and therefore, you’re succeeding.

mmunication ISSUE 1 | STYLEMAGAZINES.COM.AU | 13

SELF CARE CHECKLIST PHYSICAL

EMOTIONAL

Walk in nature

Pick some flowers, pop in a vase

Cuddle your pet Eat lunch outside Buy new bedding Take five deep breaths Clean & reorganise your wardrobe Stretch every day

Burn a candle Virtual wine time Write a positive Google review Gratitude journal Create a feel-good Spotify playlist Figure out your signature recipe

MENTAL

Wave to a postie

Join a book club online

Create a herb garden

Learn a new skill like painting or a language Download ‘Calm’ app Sleep mode your phone Do an online craft or painting tutorial 14 | TOGETHER, APART

“I have chosen to focus on the positives and I have enjoyed seeing the kindness of humanity rise. Though we are apart in distance, we are still one family, one community. Life hasn’t stopped, we are just readjusting. I am grateful for our community of Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast and look forward to the future.”

– Sue Gaylard, owner, Avenue J Jewellery

“In the rush to return to normal, use this time to consider which parts of normal are worth returning to.”

– Dave Hollis

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TOU GH

TIMES

DON’ T

L A S T,

B U T

TOU GH

PEOPLE ADRIAN SCHRINNER Lord Mayor

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DO.

These tough people are our families, friends and neighbours who are self isolating for safety. They are the business owners who have remained open or bravely chosen to shut. They are our medical staff displaying an inhuman sense of selflessness. They are our retail services showing patience when others may not. They are our creative community still lighting a spark in any way they can. They are the essence of Brisbane!

In a whirlwind of uncertainty, our tough and resilient Brisbane community are the reason I know that we can see this crisis through.

Optimism, staying connected and appreciating the little things are also vital in getting through this crisis.

For me, it’s coming home to my wife Nina and children Octavia, Monash, Wolfgang and Petra, who bring a sense of positivity and warmth to life. With more time to be together, there’s more time to do things we don’t usually do, be it cooking a meal or sharing a laugh.

For you, it could be making that friendly phone call, checking in on a neighbour or showing appreciation to your local business.

As Lord Mayor, there is a lot of work to be done to steer us back in the right direction and we have to keep fighting in every way we can.

We will get through this and we will weather this storm, but most importantly we will do it together.”

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READ, WATCH, LISTEN. Whether you’re looking to be inspired or calmed, or yearning for education and a good belly laugh, here’s what you should read, watch and listen to in isolation.

Read:

Curl up with a novel that will transport you to another place and time. These page-turners are all homegrown, from local authors, right here in Brisbane.

BOY SWALLOWS UNIVERSE Trent Dalton

Love, crime and coming of age – this powerful tale will transfix you.

EGGSHELL SKULL Bri Lee A memoir about standing up, speaking out and fighting back.

THE PRETTIEST HORSE IN THE GLUE FACTORY Corey White A gritty true-story that will shock and move you, page after page.

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Check out our curated playlist by searching‘Together, Apart’ on Spotify.

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Watch:

When the outside world just feels like a little too much, kick back and escape with warm and funny shows that draw you in and whisk you away.

SCHITT’S CREEK

Hilariously funny and full of heart.

NAILED IT

Home bakers trying their absolute hardest.

STRANGER THINGS Cult-following for a reason.

Listen:

Podcasts have the power to educate, inspire and motivate. There’s never been a better time to embrace this new-age audio movement.

BEHIND THE BRILLIANCE:

Smart and insightful conversations with innovators, creatives and entrepreneurs.

OPRAH’S SUPER SOUL CONVERSATIONS A timely classic designed to awaken and connect you with the deeper meaning of the world around you.

DR KARL PODCAST: Solving the mysteries of the world with science, one great myth at a time.

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OF BEAUTY, RICH AND RARE How our nation’s radiant brands are brightening our days, one product at a time.

Words

DINUSHKA GUNASEKARA

Photography

CORRINA LOUISE @corrina.louise_photographer 22 | TOGETHER, APART

DUNKLE AUTHENTIC Dunkle Authentic Los Angeles Lipstick $52

GROWN ALCHEMIST

Video meeting tomorrow morning? An earthy hue inspired by the rich minerals and lush botanicals of Australia, will have you start the day feeling fresh and awake.

Grown Alchemist Hydra-Repair Day Cream $75 If the French are known for a beauty look of classic sensibility, then Australians have the market share on a healthy, sun-kissed glow.

Du nkl ent ic F

LUMA BEAUTY

ace

LUMA Liquid Light Illuminating Primer $29.95

Oil $68

With only one ethicallysourced Australian ingredient and a number of nourishing benefits, you’ll be reaching for the Biologi lip serum each evening before bed.

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Biologi BL Nourish Lip Serum $24

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BIOLOGI

Like Jess Hart, LUMA will brighten even the most dull of days (and dark circles).

Quintessentially Aussie and inspired by the everyday girl who’s a total glow-getter.

STARSIGN SCENTS StarSign Scents Taurus Perfume $99 When the perfume is tailored to your Zodiac sign, it’s bound to give you a skip in your step each day. Pop it on before a walk for an extra lift.

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Y

O

U

D

A

I

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I

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R L Y U

The ultimate working from home handbook.

Words

BETHAN WARRIOR

“Never forget that in the midst of the chaos we have an opportunity to block out the noise and rediscover ourselves, connect with our community in unique ways and remember to never be afraid to lean on family when things get tough.

There is always a silver lining in every situation.”

– Mitch Truesdale & Terry O’Neill, coaches, Facilities Fitness 24 | TOGETHER, APART

A

L

S

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F I

R

S

T

T H

I

N

G

F I

R

S

T ,

S

the fact that working from home is significantly reducing the likelihood of contracting the virus or infecting someone else, is the ultimate pro!

Despite the challenges of working from home it has to be stated that it’s all worth it, not only for my safety, but for those around me. These times are challenging for most, but just remember it’s only temporary. It could always be worse. And it’s all for the greater good.

Want a burst of energy and a renewed mindset? Begin your day with a virtual Pilates class led by the experts at Studio Pilates CLICK HERE AND GET MOVING! 26 | TOGETHER, APART

P R O :

C O N :

I think most of the ladies can relate to me when I say, that one of the best parts of the day is when you remove your make-up and whip off your bra. My skin has been loving the fact that I’ve not been in a stitch of make up all week! Those rogue breakouts are clearing up and it just seems to be healthier overall. Now, some people like to do their regular beauty routine, even when they’re working from home to keep up their productivity, which is totally fine. However, if you’re a low-maintenance gal who feels just as focused with a fresh face, take the time to enjoy going make-up free! And hey, while you’re in the comfort of your own home, why battle with underwire and fastenings when you can just free-boob it! Or chuck on a comfy AF sports bra. In saying that, even though you might like to keep it casual at home, I would recommend taking a shower and getting into some fresh clothes before starting work. Staying in the clothes you slept in can keep you in that bedtime state of mind.

Having a few extra minutes in the morning can be useful for a little life admin, however, these can easily turn into distractions away from your work if you’re not careful.

“Maybe I’ll just sweep the floors.” “Oh, this needs to be put away.” “I wonder what’s in the fridge.” It’s a lot easier to get distracted with non-work-related things when there’s no one around to keep you focused. And, that’s where it’s up to you my friend. Consider your time working from home as an exercise in self-control.

Now put down that remote, sh*t needs to get done!

I’ve found creating lists to be a super simple and effective way to make sure I keep on track during selfisolation. Also, setting mini-goals throughout the day will make sure your productivity remains high. Aiming to have certain things done by a certain time will keep you motivated to ignore your phone notifications.

At the end of the day, you should try and operate as regularly as you would in the office. One thing is for sure, your bosses definitely expect you to.

Fresh-faced and bra-free!

P R O :

All in the timing As a self-proclaimed, anti-morning person, I can confess that since I no longer have to spend as much time getting ready or driving to work, I am really enjoying those extra few minutes in bed in the morning. Being able to lie in bed and wake up a little slower definitely makes me feel calmer and more collected before starting my work for the day. I usually feel quite rushed and worried in the morning. Do I have enough time to curl my hair? Is there going to be traffic? Have I got my lunch? Now that I’m at home all day and don’t have to worry about these things, I feel a lot my focused on my workload.

There have also been a couple of days this week where my body clock has naturally woken me up at my regular time, so I have about 40 minutes to an hour before starting my working day. I’ve loved taking this time to do those small, irritating household jobs that fall by the wayside on a weekday; hanging the washing out, washing the dishes, general tidying and putting away.

Not only does it mean my evenings are lot more free, but I’ve found as I’m waking up from my sleep, just doing little chores, I feel far more mentally awake and cognitive by the time it’s ready to start work.

Oh, something shiny!

C O N :

Keep it moving Anyone who works in an office knows that a sore neck and back is a common woe when sitting at a desk all day.

I find this to be even more irritating as I spend my days at home. Perhaps it’s the absence of the morning coffee run or walking to chat with your workmate in another room, but I’ve found I’m moving less and getting sorer muscles while being at home. In the office, we often do mini-group stretch sessions to keep our bodies moving and it makes me feel a lot more refreshed when getting back to my desk (and, it really made a difference to reduce any aches or pains!). If you’re working from home, I would recommend a little lunchtime walk or mini Pilates sesh to keep your body and mind fresh.

As I continue my self-isolation, I’ve made a note to set alarms, one in the morning and one in the afternoon to allow time to get up, move around and do a couple of yoga poses and stretches. Namaste, my lovelies!

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IS CORONAVIRUS CHANGING THE WAY WE WORK? The forced natural experiment that nobody asked for.

Words

COURTNEY FRANK

28 | TOGETHER, APART

“What we are witnessing here is a global reset in many ways. Before, everything and everyone was moving too fast. It’s an exciting time in some ways as it has changed the way people think and view the world. Although there are obvious catastrophes and great sadness that has touched humans all over the planet, it has given people an awareness of how fragile we are.

No matter how much money we have or where we live, this recent pandemic has proven that indeed we are all connected, we are ONE” – Oscar Cullinan, Managing Director, Oscar Oscar Salons.

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“The things we will come to learn in the next few months will be pivotal in how we choose to conduct work in the future.”

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o say the last few weeks have been uncertain would be an understatement. As countries all over the world shut their borders and declare states of emergency, it’s clear that the coronavirus (COVID-19) has ignited a sense of uncertainty throughout society. And as normal rules for business and social interactions continue to change on the daily, coronavirus is forcing millions of people all over the world to re-evaluate their current workplace strategy. It seems we may have reached a crossroads as a society – one that is in favour of working from home.

This forced experiment in working remotely is one that depends on many different individual circumstances. So, even though global companies such as Google, Amazon, Microsoft and Twitter were among the first to have their employees working from home, here in Australia, it’s embedded in our ‘Aussie battler’ nature to just keep calm and carry on. Which is all well and good, so long as you keep socially distant (and if you’re even able to!).

The things we will come to learn in the next few months will be pivotal in how we choose to conduct work in the future. In the age of innovation, remote working gives us a chance to achieve the ultimate work-life balance.

In fact, companies who allow remote work have 25% less employee turnover than those that don’t (Owl Labs). Statistics also show that 76% of workers would be more willing to stay with their current employer if they could work more flexible hours (FlexJobs).

The fact is, long before this global pandemic hit, the rate of people working from home was already rising. Over the past few weeks (and no doubt into the next few months), our society will continue to change.

And it’s likely that post-coronavirus workplaces may entertain the idea of working remotely, where they may have not before. Of course, this is all dependent on the success of this forced experiment in autonomy.

Naturally, the same can’t be said for everyone. There are many essential service industries that keep our country operating who don’t have the option to work from home. Interestingly though, the innovation has now started to filter through to some of these occupations. For example, some GPs now offer the option to order your recurring prescriptions online – eliminating the need for any face-to-face contact – all from the comfort of your couch.

So, it begs the question, where will working from home take us in a post-isolation world? I guess only time will tell.

Long before this global pandemic, the rate of people working from home was already rising.”

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A N D

T H E

P E O P L E S T A Y E D H O M E .

By

KITTY O’MEARA (2020)

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And read books, and listened, and rested, and exercised, and made art, and played games, and learned new ways of being, and were still. And listened more deeply. Some meditated, some prayed, some danced. Some met their shadows.

And the people began to think differently.

And the people healed. And, in the absence of people living in ignorant, dangerous, mindless, and heartless ways, the earth began to heal.

And when the danger passed, and the people joined together again, they grieved their losses, and made new choices, and dreamed new images, and created new ways to live and heal the earth fully, as they had been healed.

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Try

THIS

at

HOME

A step by step guide to styling your home that doesn’t require drastic changes.

Words

JASMINE ROLFE

34 | TOGETHER, APART

Image

OZ DESIGN

Image

OZ DESIGN

36 | TOGETHER, APART

Declutter

Image

OZ DESIGN

It sounds so 2018 but when you finally clear out the old and make space for the new, you feel a sense of satisfaction and calm looking at the space. Take your pantry for example. How many expired products do you have? Do you even know what’s in there? Clear out and re-shuffle! You could make some meals with the ingredients you find. It’s also cathartic to tick off a list of spaces to declutter as you go. Makes you feel productive.

Clear your surfaces You have cupboards for a reason. There’s no reason that bill needs to sit on the bench or that banana in the fruit bowl that’s now attracting fruit flies. Put them away and only leave out a stylish dish for your keys and some inspiring items like a recipe book or a beautiful wooden chopping board. And put your appliances away too. The Nutribullet is le’ugly.

Cleanse the air No, we don’t mean lay out the crystals. We mean go to the supermarket or Bunnings and buy 3-4 small potted herbs and put them in the kitchen. Water them according to the instructions and notice yourself looking at them right next to your beautiful wooden chopping board every time you walk into the kitchen.

Kitchens are normally quite stark and neutral. Bring colour into your space through plants that will cleanse the air as well.

Buy a new rug This is pretty self-explanatory but the feeling of a soft rug that suits the aesthetic of your home will do wonders, not only for warming up the space but for your mindset. Especially as you sit on the couch in the morning and drink your coffee. People love soft things, autumn is made for soft things, so bring in the soft things. But there’s a home-styling tip we should all remember.

Don’t choose a statement rug if your sofa is the statement piece.

You should limit a space to one statement piece per room.

Repurpose Do you have an old terracotta vase that no longer suits the look and feel of your home? Maybe a bedside table that feels a little outdated? Wash them, sand them and paint them. If you’re looking for a crisp white shade, we can recommend ‘White on White’ by Dulux. It’s an all-rounder.

Oh, and by the way. See that sofa? Go lay on it.

It’s okay if productivity looks a little different this season. Take this time to rest and restore!

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12 SIMPLE

WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR IMMUNITY Sorry, does not include crystals.

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Words

BETHAN WARRIOR

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hether you’re boarded up in selfisolation or part of essential services, taking care of your body and mind is more relevant than ever. During this time, it’s important to make active decisions about your health and safety. Other than the no-brainers – wash your hands, no hugging and elbow sneezing – we’ve got our top 12 steps to support your immune system. While no one food or product can completely protect you from getting sick, introducing these super simple, super effective techniques into your daily life will definitely boost your immune system’s Kung Fu fighting abilities!

40 | TOGETHER, APART

1. Spice it up

2

Did you know that garlic, onions, ginger, turmeric and cayenne pepper are all fabulous spices to introduce to your diet for their antioxidant, detoxification and antimicrobial features. Garlic in particular has been considered a super-food since ancient times for its multiple health benefits. The natural compound found in garlic (allicin) has antibacterial properties that can protect against illness. It’s also known for its direct effect on boosting white blood cells, which fight off harmful bacteria.

2. Berry good Foods rich in antioxidants such as berries, dark chocolate, apples and leafy vegetables will also assist in pumping up your immune system to its full potential. These guys will reduce cell death in your system and promote the growth of white blood cells. They also have the amazing ability to assist your body’s repair function. If you are going out to grab groceries, try hitting up your local market or grower to support our local Brissy industry.

3. Snooze fest We have another excuse for an early night! A healthy 7-9 hours of sleep a night is a great way to give your immunity a helping hand. As most of us know, sleep is your body’s time to recover and repair crucial functions, including your immunity. Getting enough Z’s can boost your T-cells – some research indicates one bad night’s sleep can reduce your immune cells by up to 70%. So tuck in, it’s time for an early night, friends!

4. Let’s get physical Turns out we have the term ‘sweat it out’ for a reason. If you’re currently in self-isolation, you may not be pumping iron at the gym, but keeping fit and moving is key to keeping your immunity happy. Regular exercise will increase circulation which means white blood cells will get around the body more effectively. Watch your back, bacteria! As you exercise and your body temperature rises, this also has a destructive effect on nasty bugs.

Those happy endorphins are an added bonus! However, it should be noted that high-intensity or prolonged exercise can spike your hormones which can compromise your immunity, so don’t push it for longer than an hour.

5. Take care of your plant babies

5

Aside from lookin’ spiffy around your home, indoor plants are also super beneficial to your health. Plants are nature’s detoxifiers. They can significantly improve the air quality of their environment by absorbing chemicals in the air. Not to mention, studies have found that being in an environment with plants can reduce stress as well as improve blood pressure and heart rate. Boston ferns are powerhouse purifiers that absorb nasty chemicals and repurpose them into materials the plant can use.

Other plants such as peace lilies, pothos and aloe vera are also fantastic options to add to your plant collection during this time.

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6. Put the bottle down The general state of the world right now might have you feeling like a vino (or three), and the occasional drink is completely fine. However, be wary of overdoing it. Not only will it dehydrate you, alcohol has been shown to compromise your body’s ability to heal itself.

Alcohol can also disrupt the gut barrier, which is a key defense and weakening it may allow more bacteria to enter your system.

7. Pick the water up This one is super obvious, we know, but keeping your body hydrated is so important for a healthy immune system. Drinking plenty of water will naturally flush out any toxins hanging out in your system. Plus, you’ll be getting that glowy skin, girl!

9

8

Go green

Opting for a cosy cup of green tea is oh-so beneficial to your system.

It’s full of antioxidants called polyphenols which are handy for fighting infections, as well as strong anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. The polyphenols in green tea are a powerful weapon against viruses and can actually prevent the virus’ ability to infect other cells.

Get the D Studies have long proven that excess amounts of vitamin tablets aren’t actually helping your system at all.

Vitamin D is the exception! Catching rays may not prevent you from catching a bug, however it has been proven to be effective when fighting them off and can reduce the severity of your illness.

Now, while a lot of us are staying indoors at the moment, open those curtains and windows, and get out into the backyard whenever possible.

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10. Friendly fibre Your immune and digestive systems are more linked than you might think.

Over 70% of immune cells are found in the gut walls, so maintaining a happy tum is paramount to healthy immunity.

Make sure you’re giving your gut plenty of fibre, which will move toxins through your system quickly. The digestive system is the body’s natural detoxifier, so make sure you take care of it, too. Introducing a probiotic may be worth thinking about.

12

Burn the daytime oil

11. Stress less sister During these troubling times, it’s easier said than done. We know! However, keeping a cool head is crucial to not only a healthy mind and soul, but body too. Your brain is in constant communication with the rest of your body and when you’re stressed or panicked, your brain goes into emergency mode, which can depress your immune system. Chronic stress suppresses the immune system when the brain releases the hormone cortisol, which can interfere with your T-cell’s (a specific white blood cell) function. Cortisol also reduces the antibodies in your gut and respiratory tract, which are our first line of defense against pathogens. Try to keep up the positive thinking and introduce calming practices such as mediation or yoga into your routine.

Limit your media intake, stay connected with friends and engage in a little self-care.

Not that we need an excuse to whip out the diffuser, but now you have a pretty good one! Not only will essential oils help you relax and unwind in these troubling times, but some have been shown to boost immunity as well. Lemon essential oil has been used for its ability to stimulate the immune system and is known for its antiseptic qualities. It’s also beneficial to the circulatory system which can assist in getting those bacteria-fighting white blood cells around the body! Tea tree also has strong antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties that strengthen the immune system, increasing its abilities to fight off infections. Incorporating a few drops of these oils into a bath, diffuser or applied topically will not only boost your mind and soul, but also your immunity.

All material included in the Together, Apart publication is intended to be of a general nature only. Readers should always seek advice from a medical professional.

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SOME

ASSU ME

THAT

AS

GET

OLDER ,

Y OU

HAV E

MOR E

TIME.

THE HONOURABLE DAME QUENTIN BRYCE, Former Governor General of Australia

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Y OU

Which is not so, there is less – so you keep it for the most important things. Distilling those that really matter.

Thinking about things more deeply, loving more deeply, feeling more deeply.

I want you to know that I carry thoughts of encouragement and support for you in these troubled, strange times of uncertainty about what lies ahead.

I have found across my life that when I am in need of reassurance I can always find comfort and joy in art and beauty, poetry, soft evening shadows.

I know I can always count on music. It’s the thing that reaches into the heart and mind, into every emotion.

I love the way our artists across every field: ballet, choir, pop, rock, comedy, orchestras, quartets...are bringing gorgeous experiences to us into our homes, on our screens as we face the challenges of isolation. Bringing joy and delight in spades.”

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DELIVERABLE BITES You don’t have to resort to toast [and two-minute noodles] when you’re feeling the hunger this month.

Words

GEORGIE MURRAY

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HANDS ON

Baja, Fortitude Valley Barbecue Mafia, Chelmer Bender’s Bar, South Brisbane Big Roddy’s Rippin’ Rib Shack, South Brisbane and Fortitude Valley Burrito Bar, Various locations Brooks & Stain, Wilston City Winery, Fortitude Valley Getta Burger, Various locations Mama Taco, West End Milky Lane, Newstead Seoul Bistro, Sunnybank Wing Fix, Coorparoo and Morningside

FORK ABOUT IT Aamaya Indian Restaurant, Hamilton Bamboo Basket, Hamilton Beccofino, Teneriffe Birrunga Gallery & Dining, Brisbane City Boucher French Bistro, Graceville CJ’s Pasta, West End Gianni’s Kitchen, Newstead and Hamilton Happy Boy, Fortitude Valley Hôntô, Fortitude Valley Julius, South Brisbane Mosconi, Fortitude Valley Mr Chester Wine Bar, Fortitude Valley Mr. Mista, Fortitude Valley Ninebar + Kitchen, Coorparoo Olive & Angelo, Brisbane City Salt Meats Cheese, Newstead and South Bank sAme sAme, Fortitude Valley The Spaghetti House Trattoria, South Brisbane

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Support Brisbane businesses by letting them feed you at home with takeaway and delivery services offered for casual cravings, fancy feasts and everything in-between!

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GET THE SCOOP Alphabet Café, West End Bella Epoque, South Bank Huskk Café, Grange Jocelyn’s Provisions, Various locations La Macelleria, Various locations Miss Bliss, West End Morning After, West End Pablo, New Farm Prova Pizzeria, Stafford Heights Sister Café, Hawthorne The Menagerie, Kelvin Grove

SHARPEN UP @Mr & Mrs Jones, Hamilton 85 Miskin St, Toowong Alchemy, Brisbane City Bakehouse Steakhouse, Ipswich Botellón Restaurant, Graceville Dalton Catering, Fortitude Valley Drum Dining, Newstead E’cco Bistro, Newstead Ehden Bar & Kitchen, West End Elska, Wilston Gambaro Seafood Restaurant, Brisbane City Gauge and Maker, South Brisbane Gerard’s Bistro, Fortitude Valley Les Bubbles, Fortitude Valley Moda Tapas Brasa Bar, Petrie Terrace Montrachet, Bowen Hills Rogue Bistro, Newstead The Golden Pig, Newstead

N O T S UR E I F Y OU’R E HUNGRY FOR N EWSTEAD N I B B L E S OR T OOWON G TASTES? Find them all in one place on the Bopple app – the Brisbane-based service connecting you to local favourites like Comuna Cantina, Nodo, Cheeky Poke Bar, Suburban Social, and so much more!

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COMFORT FOOD AT HOME Delicious [and easy] vegan macaroni & cheese.

4 SERVES

10 PR E P TI ME [ MI NS]

40 CO O KI NG T IM E [ MI NS]

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

250g Rigatoni pasta 2 tbsp vegan butter 2 tbsp plain flour 2 cups unsweetened dairy-free milk 1 bay leaf ½ tsp ground mustard seed ½ tsp garlic powder ½ tsp smoked paprika ¹⁄³ cup nutritional yeast 2 ½ cups dairy-free shredded cheese ½ tbsp miso paste ½ cup breadcrumbs, toasted Salt and pepper Fresh herbs to garnish

1 Preheat your oven to 190ºC. Grease a large baking dish or oven-proof skillet with coconut oil or vegan butter.

2 Cook the pasta until almost al dente.

Pasta should be slightly chewier than what you’d like it to be in the end.

Drain and set aside. 3 Meanwhile, heat vegan butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add flour and stir until well combined, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add dairy-free milk, bay leaf, mustard, garlic powder and paprika.

Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes, constantly stirring to avoid lumps.

4 Add nutritional yeast, shredded cheese and miso paste. Stir until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper. 5 Combine pasta and sauce in large baking dish or skillet.

Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Let cool, garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy.

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A COSY START Macadamia & maple Anzac granola JACQUI TOUMBAS, foodie & owner of Miss Bliss Wholefoods

Ahead of ANZAC Day on Saturday 25 April, Legacy Brisbane is encouraging Australians to commemorate the day without having the ability to attend official services. It’s never been more important to remember our ANZACs and those they left behind, as charities and Not-For-Profits in the veteran space struggle to look after their widows and families left behind, as the pandemic takes hold. For more information on how you can support Legacy Brisbane, visit their website.

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

3 cups oats 1 cup spelt flour 1 ½ cups desiccated coconut 230g coarsely crushed macadamias ½ cup pure maple syrup 3 tbsp coconut sugar ¹⁄³ cup water 1 tbsp olive oil

1 Preheat oven to 160ºC, fan forced.

2 Prepare a baking tray with greaseproof paper. 3 Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix together with hands.

4 Spread the oat mix evenly on the tray over the greaseproof paper. 5 Use your hand to ‘scrunch’ the mix to form clusters. 6 Cook in the oven for 20-25 minutes. 7 At the halfway mark, take the tray out and carefully stir the mix so it bakes evenly. 8 Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

9 Serve with fresh fruit and yoghurt.

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Cr Vicki Howard

Councillor for Central Ward Central.Ward@bcc.qld.gov.au (07) 3403 0254