Tag: wellbeing

HRT: A Powerful Tool for Women’s Health – What You Need to Know

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Women's Health

As we navigate different stages of life, our health needs evolve. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a topic that often sparks curiosity, and sometimes concern. While commonly associated with menopause symptom relief, HRT offers long-term health benefits that go beyond managing hot flashes and night sweats. However, like any treatment, it also comes with considerations.

So, what should you know about the benefits and risks of HRT? Let’s explore the latest research.

The Benefits: More Than Just Symptom Relief

Many women turn to HRT for relief from menopause symptoms, but its advantages extend far beyond that. Here are some key long-term benefits, backed by research:

Supports Heart Health

– 4 fewer cases of cardiovascular disease per 1,000 women aged 50-59 who start HRT within 10 years of menopause.

– 2.5 fewer deaths per 1,000 women aged 50-59 who initiate body-identical oestradiol (oral or transdermal) with a progestogen.

– No reduction in mortality when HRT is started more than 10 years after menopause with synthetic progestogens.

Stronger Bones & Reduced Fracture Risk

– 7 fewer fractures per 1,000 women aged 50-59 who use HRT.

– 5 fewer fractures per 1,000 women aged 60-69 who take HRT.

– Osteoporosis-related fractures occur in 15 per 1,000 women aged 50-59 each year, highlighting the role of HRT in prevention.

Brain Health & Dementia Risk Reduction

– 14.5 fewer cases of dementia per 1,000 women who start oestrogen-only HRT within 10 years of menopause.

– 10 fewer cases per 1,000 women who start combined oestrogen + progestogen HRT within 10 years of menopause.

– Dementia is a leading cause of death in women, and HRT may play a role in reducing neurodegenerative risks.

May Lower the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

– 20% of women aged 60-69 have diabetes, and HRT has been linked to improved blood sugar control.

– Women who used HRT for 2.5 to 5 years had a 69% lower risk of developing diabetes.

The Risks: What to Consider

HRT isn’t one-size-fits-all, and certain factors should be considered before starting treatment:

Breast Cancer Risk

– 23 cases of breast cancer per 1,000 women aged 50-59 over five years.

– No increased breast cancer risk has been confirmed for women using body-identical progesterone, but more long-term data is needed.

Blood Clots (VTE – Venous Thromboembolism)

– 5 cases per 1,000 women aged 50-59 using HRT over five years.

– 8 cases per 1,000 women aged 60-69 using HRT over five years.

– No increased risk for women using transdermal oestrogen with or without body-identical progesterone.

Stroke Risk

– 4 cases per 1,000 women aged 50-59 each year.

– 9 cases per 1,000 women aged 60-69 each year.

– No additional stroke risk for women under 60 using transdermal oestrogen.

Finding the Right Approach

The key to HRT is personalization—the right type, dosage, and timing make all the difference. If you’re considering HRT, consult a healthcare professional to explore options that align with your individual health needs.

HRT is not just about managing menopause—it’s about long-term health and quality of life. Whether you’re just starting your research or considering treatment, staying informed empowers you to make the best decisions for your well-being.

Have questions or experiences with HRT? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Let’s keep the conversation going.

WRITTEN BY Dr Anna Ord, Menopause Doctor

Dr Anna is passionate about helping women with their perimenopause and menopause journey. She dedicates each Monday to assisting women at Drift Wellness Centre in Clarkson, and also via online appointments during the week. You can find out more about Dr Anna and book in your appointment on her website www.drannaord.com

Why Muscle Health is Key in Menopause

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Women's Health

I had such a great time at the IMS (International Menopause Society) 19th World Congress on Menopause in Melbourne this October. After two COVID cancellations, it was amazing to finally be there, meet people from around the world, and dive into the latest research in menopause care.

Participating in the Conference offered an invaluable opportunity to stay updated with the latest advancements and best practices in menopause care and covered so many areas that effect women’s health during this stage of their life.

One of the sessions that really stood out to me was on the health risks linked to menopause and the importance of muscle health as we age. The speaker explained how menopause can change body composition – especially with increases in visceral fat (around the abdomen) and decreases in lean muscle. These shifts can lead to higher risks for things like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even cognitive decline. Seeing the data on how much muscle loss impacts our health was eye-opening.

The session stressed that muscle loss during menopause isn’t just about losing size; it’s the strength and power that’s crucial. For every 1 kg of muscle lost, the resting metabolic rate drops significantly, which is why regular exercise and a focus on muscle-preserving activities are so important. It was a great reminder of the role that nutrition and lifestyle play during menopause, and it left me feeling inspired to bring more of this focus into my practice.

Another big takeaway was the importance of protein. The recommended intake actually goes up during menopause, aiming for at least 1.2 grams per kilogram daily to support muscle preservation. So, for a 70 kg woman, that’s about 85 grams of high-quality protein every day. This was especially interesting because studies are now showing that combining good protein intake with resistance and aerobic exercise not only supports physical health but also benefits cognitive function, including memory and executive skills.

The session wrapped up with a simple but powerful message: “Muscles Matter.” Focusing on strength, good nutrition, and regular movement isn’t just about appearance – it’s essential for health, independence, and quality of life as we age. I left feeling really motivated to help my patients understand why muscle health is so crucial, especially through the menopause transition.

WRITTEN BY Dr Anna Ord, Menopause Doctor

Dr Anna is passionate about helping women with their perimenopause and menopause journey. She dedicates each Monday to assisting women at Drift Wellness Centre in Clarkson. You can find out more about Dr Anna and book in your appointment on her website www.drannaord.com

What is Art Therapy?

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Mental health, Wellness

Art Therapy is a therapeutic practice that utilizes the creative process of making art to improve mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. It’s founded on the idea that the visual language of art can access parts of our psyche that words sometimes cannot reach. Through creating and exploring art, individuals can express and process their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a nonverbal way.

​In an Art Therapy session, clients might use various mediums like drawing, painting, sculpting, or collage to explore their inner world. This process can help them gain insights, resolve conflicts, and cope with difficult emotions. The art created during therapy serves as a powerful tool for self-expression, allowing individuals to articulate complex or hidden aspects of themselves.​

Art Therapy is often used in conjunction with other therapeutic approaches and can be beneficial for people of all ages and backgrounds, including those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. It can also be a way to foster personal growth and enhance overall life satisfaction by promoting self-discovery and personal insight.

​But I can’t draw! I’m not an artist!

​In Art Therapy, the emphasis is on the process rather than the product. It’s about exploring and expressing emotions and thoughts through art without the pressure to create a “perfect” or aesthetically pleasing piece. You have permission to “screw it up”. The beauty of art therapy lies in its freedom from conventional standards of artistic success.

​

​​“Stick figures are welcome in art therapy. It’s all about the process, not the end result”.

Here’s why Art Therapy is so effective:

​Non-Judgmental Space: Art therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can experiment with materials and techniques without the worry of making mistakes or producing a “bad” piece of art.

Accessing the Unconscious: Sometimes the most profound insights come from art that seems chaotic or nonsensical. The creative process can tap into subconscious thoughts and feelings that might be hard to articulate with words.

Metaphorical Exploration: Art can serve as a metaphor for personal experiences. Even abstract or “ugly” pieces can reveal valuable information about your inner world, offering new perspectives on challenges or emotions.

Personal Growth: Engaging in artmaking helps you connect with different parts of yourself and can lead to personal growth and self-discovery. The process itself can be therapeutic and revealing, regardless of the final product.

Accessibility: You don’t need to have any prior artistic experience or skills to benefit from art therapy. It’s about the experience of creating and reflecting, not about artistic talent or outcomes.​

In essence, art therapy is about the journey of self-expression and exploration. It’s an opportunity to delve into your inner life in a creative, non-verbal way, and sometimes the most meaningful discoveries come from the unexpected or unconventional.

written by Meaghan Hamilton, a qualified Transpersonal Art Therapist and Counsellor

Meaghan has a rich background in both the arts and psychology. She embodies the essence of being human, embracing love, vulnerability, and the complexities of life. Her journey toward healing began two decades ago during her time as a Constable in the Queensland Police Service, where she discovered her passion for supporting those in need. Following a life-changing diagnosis of complex PTSD in 2005, Meaghan turned to Art Therapy, which transformed her path and helped her reclaim her sense of self. Now, she dedicates her life to guiding others who feel lost or disconnected, using a holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual healing. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Arts and advanced diplomas in Transpersonal Art Therapy and Counselling, Meaghan employs both ancient and modern therapeutic modalities to empower her clients: adults, adolescents and children, helping them find their inner wisdom and fostering a journey of growth and transformation.

book your therapy session today

Meaghan is at Drift Wellness Centre every Friday and for more information please visit her website: www.meagsartthreapy.com.au

Optimize Wellness with Microbiome Testing: Insights and Special Offer

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Wellness

Microbiome testing has gained popularity in recent years, but what exactly is it?

The microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes, that inhabit our bodies, particularly the gut. These tiny residents play a crucial role in our overall health, affecting everything from digestion and immune function to mood and weight.

So, why would you consider having microbiome testing done? Here are a few reasons:

  1. Personalized Health Insights: By analyzing your microbiome, you can gain a deeper understanding of your unique gut flora composition. This can help identify imbalances that might be contributing to various health issues, such as digestive disorders, skin conditions, or unexplained fatigue.
  2. Tailored Dietary Recommendations: The results from microbiome testing can guide dietary adjustments tailored to your specific needs. For instance, you might discover a need for more fiber to support beneficial bacteria or identify food sensitivities that are causing inflammation.
  3. Improved Digestive Health: Many people suffer from gastrointestinal problems like bloating, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Microbiome testing can pinpoint specific bacterial imbalances that may be exacerbating these conditions, allowing for targeted interventions.
  4. Enhanced Immune Function: A healthy gut microbiome is essential for a robust immune system. By identifying and addressing imbalances, you can strengthen your immune response, making you less susceptible to infections and illnesses.
  5. Mental Health Benefits: Emerging research highlights the gut-brain connection, indicating that gut health can influence mood and mental well-being. Microbiome testing can provide insights into this link, potentially helping to address issues like anxiety and depression.

The benefits of microbiome testing are significant. It offers a personalized approach to health and wellness, providing actionable insights that can lead to improved digestion, better immune function, and enhanced overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with chronic health issues or simply want to optimize your health, microbiome testing can be a valuable tool in your wellness toolkit.

Book in for your Functional Wellness Consultation with Angela before the 2nd August 2024 and get 30% OFF YOUR MICROBIOME TEST.

book your functional wellness consultation today
WRITTEN BY ANGELA SMITH, FUNCTIONAL WELLNESS PRACTITIONER

Embrace the Warmth: The Benefits of Hot Stone Massage This Winter

by DriftMassageWellness, posted in Why you need a massage

As the chill of winter sets in, there’s no better way to warm up and unwind than with a luxurious hot stone massage. Imagine the soothing heat of smooth, volcanic stones melting away your stress and muscle tension, leaving you in a state of pure bliss. At Drift Remedial & Relaxation Massage, we believe in the magic of this ancient therapy, especially during the colder months. Let’s dive into the benefits of hot stone massage and why it’s the perfect remedy for winter woes.

Deep Relaxation and Stress Relief

Winter often brings with it a sense of hibernation and sluggishness. Hot stone massage counteracts this by promoting deep relaxation. The gentle heat from the stones penetrates your muscles, easing tension and stress. It’s like a warm hug for your entire body, helping you to unwind and recharge during the colder season.

Improved Circulation

The heat from the stones not only feels amazing but also stimulates blood flow. This improved circulation can help to alleviate winter stiffness and joint pain, leaving you feeling more flexible and comfortable. Enhanced blood flow also supports the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to your muscles, promoting overall health and well-being.

Pain Relief

For those who suffer from chronic pain or muscle soreness, winter can be particularly challenging. Hot stone massage offers significant relief by targeting sore spots and knots with focused heat. The combination of massage techniques and the warmth of the stones helps to reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and ease discomfort, making it easier to enjoy your favorite winter activities.

If required, we will add in remedial techniques to help get the release and relief you are needing and yes you can claim your Private Health rebate when we use the stones in a remedial hot stone massage.

Boosted Immune System

Winter is notorious for colds and flu, but did you know that massage can help boost your immune system? By reducing stress and promoting relaxation, hot stone massage can enhance your body’s natural defense mechanisms. It’s a holistic way to stay healthy and resilient during the colder months.

Enhanced Mood and Well-Being

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects many people during the winter. Hot stone massage can be a powerful mood booster. The soothing warmth and relaxation trigger the release of endorphins, your body’s natural feel-good hormones. You’ll leave your session feeling uplifted, rejuvenated, and ready to tackle the winter blues.

At Drift, we’re all about helping you feel your best, no matter the season. So why not treat yourself to a hot stone massage this winter? It’s the perfect way to stay warm, relaxed, and healthy. Book your session today and experience the transformative power of this ancient therapy!

75 minute Hot Stone Massage treatment is $150.

book your hot stones massage today