September newsletter 

THE MENTAL HEALTH EDITION

Editorial

Are you OK?  Three little words that could help save a life.  We all know someone or perhaps you are someone who struggles with mental health issues.  We’ve gone way past hiding these deep issues from our friends and family and hopefully  more open and supportive communication is gong a long way towards making sure people in our community don’t feel isolated and/or judged.

 So often the story is that people close to those who commit suicide or attempt suicide say they had “no idea” their friend or relative was at risk or that they felt that hopeless.  We can’t predict the day the demons might  win but we can make sure we check in with those close to us and even our work colleagues  - if people feel more connected they are less likely to act on feelings of despair and hopelessness.  And remember it may not be the obvious person who is struggling the most.  Let’s continue to break down the stigma around mental health and make sure you check in with someone you care about this month

Have a great month – Jules

Are You Okay?

One in four people will suffer from  a mental health condition throughout their lifetime, and at any given moment, one in six of us has in the last seven days. At least half of mental health disorders begin before the age of fourteen. Scary statistics, but certainly ones that shouldn’t be ignored. R U OK? Day is on September 12^th this year and is all about inspiring and empowering everyone to meaningfully connect with the  people around them and start a conversation with anyone who may be struggling with life.

The Role of Physiotherapy in Mental Health

Good mental health is fundamental to well-being of individuals, families and communities. Poor mental health is associated with disability, a reduction in quality of life and reduced productivity. Mental health issues are one of the main causes of overall disease burden worldwide and people with mental health issues are associated with having poorer physical health.

So how do physiotherapists fit into the picture?

Physiotherapists are considered experts in physical care and can offer a wide range of services to assist those struggling with mental health issues.

Physical activity has been shown to improve mental health disorders and overall quality of life. The benefits of physical activity are vast and can include:

• Improved fitness and endurance;
• Improved sleep;
• Increased energy and reduced fatigue;
• Stress relief;
• Improved mood;
• A positive influence on metabolic syndrome and diabetes;
• Reducing chronic illness and pain;
• Reduced anxiety and depression.
• Improved self-esteem, cognitive function and quality of life; and,
• Reduced social isolation.

Individuals suffering from mental health disorders often report multiple pain sites, and consequently may seek physiotherapy intervention. In Australia, physiotherapists are first contact practitioners and will often be the first medical professional to identify the likely presence of a mental health condition in an individual.

Physiotherapists have the potential to play a large role in promoting physical activity and positively impacting those suffering from mental health issues.

WOMEN’S WELLNESS SUMMIT

We had a successful evening on the 20^th August with our summit focusing on menopause – the good , the bad and the ugly.  We’ve had nothing but great feedback about how much people got out of the presentations x

Pilates and Mental Health

All exercise is mood enhancing, but Pilates is one of the few styles of activity that is unique in the way that it connects mind and body during its practice.

The eight traditional principles of Pilates ensure that individuals must focus and consequently many participants find the practice as mentally rewarding as they do physically.

Here are the key principles of Pilates and how they can benefit mental well-being:

Breathing

Deep controlled breathing provides our body with oxygen and energy, as well as stimulating blood flow to the brain.

Concentration

Concentration promotes mind-body connection and allows you to become mindful of each body movement.

Centring

This refers to bringing your attention to the centre of your body which will help calm your body and aid concentration and control.

Control

Based on mindfulness, Pilates ensures you utilise the exact correct form during exercise.

Alignment

Good posture will aid deep breathing, concentration and control of your movements.

Flowing Movement

Grace, ease and fluidity are intended with each Pilates movement. This will help to enhance mindfulness and relaxation during your exercise.

Precision

Exercises should be preformed with deliberate exactness.

Integration

The integration of the eight principles ensures that a mind-body workout is achieved when practicing Pilates.

Staff Top Tips for Maintaining their Mental Well-Being

Try to maintain a regular exercise routine.

Take time out for yourself, away from work and family commitments.

Get outside in nature! Take a bushwalk or just go and sit in the great outdoors.

Try to eat a balanced diet to maintain energy levels.

Wine and chocolate!

Catch up with mates regularly.

Get regular massages.

SEPTEMBER SPECIAL

12 Week Weight Loss Challenge

Lisa, Our Exercise Physiologist will be holding our first 12-week weight loss challenge starting Monday 16^th September and finishing on Monday 9^th December.  Set and reach your weight loss goals in time for Christmas !

Challenge Special Includes:

Initial  consultation – This will include weigh in, food diary, exercises and more

2x one-hour gym group  sessions per week (24 sessions)

2x educational workshops (1 hour each)

You just sign up and pay at reception before 16^th

September!

All for $650 (save $180)

MEET OUR NEWEST PHYSIO EBONY

 1 - How long have you been a physio for and where did you do your study? I have been a physio for 4 years and completed my study at Australian Catholic University in Brisbane. 
2 - Do you have a specialty area of physio, or an area that you prefer to work in? I don't have a specialty area as such, but in my time spent working at The Prince Charles Hospital I loved working in the orthopaedic ward and heart failure team until I found my passion for musculoskeletal physio within the last year. I am very excited to develop my skills even further, and incorporate the skills I've learnt along the way.
3 – What do you love about Pilates and its relationship to mental health?    
I love the combination of mind/body/spirit connection, increased body awareness and lift in mood.
4 - What's your preferred exercise to stay physically activity? I love to play netball, get out in the great outdoors, go for a hike or climb mountains locally and run regularly in my own spare time.

5 - What's your number one tip for de-stressing? Get out into nature for some fresh air and a brisk walk. There is nothing like filling your lungs with fresh air and taking in all of the greenery and beautiful nature (that we are so lucky to be surrounded by in Australia), to reset your mind and ground you when feeling amiss.
 

WE HAVE A SPECIAL OFFER FOR CLIENTS WHO SEE EBONY THIS MONTH - BOOK AND PAY FOR A PHYSIO APPOINTMENT WITH EBONY AND RECEIVE AN EXTRA 15 MINS AT NO EXTRA CHARGE!

T's and C's apply to all offers and specials 
limited by availability