STAY IN GOOD HEALTH

Wairarapa

support it will provide”. Subject to approval, work will begin immediately.

The park will comprise the following: Fencing which creates a safe space for all sizes of dogs; signage with rules for use; a lime path around the perimeter; shelter; dog agility equipment; fresh water supply; and a waste bin with emptying schedule.

In 2017, MDC undertook a survey of residents on dog policy issues and the establishment of a dog park. The issue was also discussed at a public meeting in February 2018.

The majority of respondents did not support paying higher registration fees for additional services required to provide and support a dog park.

The proposal to fund the development of the park by Rotary removes a major barrier to the development of a facility. – NZLDR • Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air

Mid-winter hot toddies

If you’re planning a mid-winter celebration or want something warming after a crisp walk, why not whip up a hot toddy for your guests. Unlike mulled wine or warm cider, hot toddies are light and hydrating rather than sweet.

Jump online and ÿ nd a recipe – they could not be easier to make. Often, you’ll only need hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon. Or, if you prefer, you can make your hot toddy with dark rum or brandy.

Hot toddies are reported to help reduce cold symptoms, although you may not want to overdo it on the whiskey. Your body needs to heal, and the simple combination of warm water, honey, lemon – and maybe a grating of root ginger – can work wonders.

Alcohol doesn’t mix well with medications. Best to nurse yourself back to health with everything but the whiskey.

Time out

The secret is out: mid-winter breaks improve workplace e° ciency. We mistakenly believe that more hours will always increase output, while ignoring the evidence. The secret to being an e˛ ective worker is not working endlessly.

In the mid-1920s, the auto giant Henry Ford reduced his factories’ workweek from six days to ÿ ve, and 48 hours to 40, after discovering that productivity returns diminished steadily after his workers toiled eight hours a day, ÿ ve days a week.

Study after study indicates that short bursts of attention punctuated with equally deliberate breaks are the surest way to harness our full capacity to be productive. And just as small breaks improve concentration, long breaks replenish job performance. Having a break reduces mistakes and resentment at co-workers. It also improves our perspective on life and improves our mental health, even if it’s only a 24-hour break away.

The bottom line is that breaks are better for our brains than overtime. Where you get your break doesn’t matter as much as getting it. It might be an hour on blogs, a day in the park, or a week at Hanmer Springs for hot pools, snow, cycling and fun. If you care about your own productivity, don’t be afraid to take time out.

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