Page 14

Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Six

GENERAL HEALTH 1. Send yourself a letter Strange, yes. Corny, definitely. But writing a letter to yourself is a sentimental way to watch how you’ve evolved over time – how your dreams, relationships and perspectives have changed. Selfaddressed letters also help us to recall memories and moments that we didn’t capture on film. If you’re a digital reader, instead of handwriting a letter you can head to websites like futureme.org, write an email and then choose a future delivery date. The question is: six months, one year or five years later? 2. Turn your phone off Don’t let the buzz-buzz of your smartphone interrupt your meetings, social events or your attention span. Turning your phone off for at least one hour of the day can improve your concentration, engagement in conversations and sleeping patterns. When you’re working or studying, switch your phone off (or to Flight Mode) and only check for messages or notifications every two to three hours. In turn, you’ll also learn to distinguish between urgent and ‘urgent’ communication. 3. Learn something new Haven’t you always wanted to learn salsa, speak French or grow your own vegetables? There are hundreds of online, community and tertiary courses available to help you gain a new skill. Check out your local information centre, community garden or TAFE for new courses in the area and choose one to embark on. Refreshing our skills and education improves our memory and brain function for later in life while also providing an opportunity to connect with people in a new environment. 4. Buy local Eating locally grown vegetables and choosing locally owned businesses benefits both you and the community. As economists have shown, money spent in the area stays in the area, and goes directly to the people behind the counter and the farm gate. Plus, food grown closer to home tastes better! Next time you have a free Saturday or Sunday morning, head down to the farmers’ markets for a taste of just-picked farm-fresh produce, and learn about how they’re grown. Visit goldcoast.qld.gov.au for a list of Gold Coast farmers’ markets. 5. Enjoy the simple things When was the last time you really appreciated a hug, or admired the intricate pattern of a fallen leaf? Noticing the beauty in simple things everyday can revolutionise your outlook on life. Whether you wake up for the sunrise, eat lunch outdoors or do five minutes of slow breathing – it all helps you to lead a happier and more fulfilled life. In fact, look around you right now and identify three things that you’re grateful for. Feels good, right? 6. Change your route What might you encounter on the alternate route to work? You may discover a new café passing through a different neighbourhood or it may just be a pleasant change of scenery. Whether you’re walking, cycling or driving, you never know what a chance meeting might bring you. Where are you reading this magazine? Is there an alternative way for you to reach home? Today your adventure begins. 2016 is approaching fast. Let us begin. 12 Pindara Magazine 2015\2016


Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Six
To see the actual publication please follow the link above