As we begin to emerge from the lonely days of COVID-19 isolation, a collaborative working space with like-minded people has never looked so good. Melbourne local Madeleine Dore, a freelance writer, interviewer and serial side-project starter, knows first-hand the pressures and challenges that can force side projects to the bottom of the to-do list. It’s why she started the regular event series Side Project Sessions in 2018, held across Australia as well as various cities in the United States.

Designed to help other people make space for their own creative work, the three-hour work session allows you to tick away at your side project surrounded by other creative, like-minded people.

Whether it is building a website, writing a novel, creating an illustration or chipping away at an endless to-do list, the concentrated pockets of time and “peer-pressured productivity” help keep your side project on track.

“I’ve found it’s easier to get in the zone when we are given parameters,” says Madeleine. “You don’t have time to become indecisive or procrastinate or be distracted.”

Working independently in a collaborative space can be a positive way to hold yourself accountable and focus on your creative work, she adds. “Peer-pressured productivity helps us get out of our own way by being part of the momentum around us,” Madeleine shares. “Something magical happens when you’re in a room surrounded by other people doing what they enjoy or have been putting off. In this way, it almost takes the pressure off.”

The co-working shift

Co-working is thought to have been popularised in 2005 when programmer Brad Neuberg and a small group of friends left behind the traditional office space to work alongside one another in an open, shared environment called Spiral Muse in San Francisco.

The move challenged traditional workplaces and set in motion a culture shift for how and where people work. The phenomenon is not new, but the number of co-working spaces worldwide continues to grow.

With millennials projected to make up the largest percentage of the global workforce by 2025, an increasing number of companies is offering more flexible working arrangements and other office features to appeal to the demand.

Nirrimi Firebrace, a photographer, writer and founder of co-working space Common Good Studio in Fremantle, Western Australia, finds working alongside others keeps her motivated when it comes to her side projects.

“Before I had the studio, I worked from home and found it almost impossible to stick to a routine or maintain a social life. I’m easily distracted and home was full of distraction,” Nirrimi says. “Having a dedicated space and people who know what you’re working on helps enormously. It can mean the difference between finishing a project or not and getting to that finish line alone can be mighty hard.”

Some people find co-working spaces noisy or distracting, but what it does have going for it is the strong sense of community. “The sense of community is always spoken about. We’re all a big, supportive family,” Nirrimi says. “I’ve had writers, painters, photographers, a filmmaker and a crochet artist all work from the studio. For some, it is a full-time gig, for others a dream side hustle.”

Escaping office politics

Shared working environments can be an escape from the chaos of office politics or desk jackers. Shared work environments can also offer a fresh perspective and greater choices for women.

The frustrations of working out of cafes, around naptime or after a workout at the gym are what prompted trio Dee Behan, Emma Startup and Oonagh Geoghegan to launch a fundraising quest to create co-working space, Frankly Co, with women in mind.

“We questioned why it didn’t already exist,” co-founder Dee Behan says. “Frankly Co is about giving people the support to work remotely and feel good at the same time.”

While the trio initially set out to create a series of physical spaces, COVID-19 brought those plans to a temporary halt. Instead, Frankly Co is now bringing people together through virtual coworking — an online space where a group of people work together in sprints and are encouraged to focus on one task at a time. With structured breaks for regular check-ins, it’s space for productivity, accountability and somewhere to make new connections.

“The future is still uncertain, but one positive that has come out of this pandemic is the cultural shift of how we work,” Dee says. “What we will always need is a sense of belonging, support and community. So that’s what we’re focused on — blending productivity and connection together.”

Tips for starting your own side project

Start small

Self-doubt and perfectionism can be some of the biggest hurdles in starting or sustaining a project. It doesn’t have to be a giant leap into the unknown. Starting small will help you manage expectations and keep side projects achievable.

Surround yourself with like-minded creatives

Accountability is everything. Having a dedicated space and surrounding yourself with people who are also motivated to get work done can make a drastic difference to your productivity.

Don’t underestimate the power of a plan

Plan or map out your creative goals and what it might take to reach them. Figure out how much time (realistically) you can dedicate each week. Ask yourself, is this project worth it? Why? Your “why” is very important as it will keep moving forward.

Self-care

When you start to feel distracted or overwhelmed by your to-do list, listen to your mind and body and take a break. It’s important to pause, rest and step away. Don’t burn out; this is a slow game!

Believe in yourself

Not everything will work out perfectly. Know that with enough belief, hard work and bravery it will pay off.

Simone Ziaziaris is a Sydney-based journalist who writes about culture, human rights, sustainability and everyday yarns. She loves meeting new, creative people through her work and finds joy in listening and learning from those she crosses paths with. Find her at @simoneziaziaris on Instagram.

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Australia, like governments all around the world, has racked up a huge COVID-19 deficit. But who do we owe this money to? We look at how government debt works and what it means for us and future generations.

Amid the life-changing shake-up of 2020, have you found yourself contemplating how to be more financially self-sufficient and less dependent on the structures and systems that no longer serve you? Did this get you wondering how dependent Australia is on other countries and curious about whose money we have been borrowing to pay for our emergency response to COVID-19? Is this leaving us exposed and vulnerable to the whims of countries that may not even share our values and vision for our planet and people?

Finding answers to these questions is not always straightforward, it’s also emotionally risky. Economic updates often spew out statistics and figures that confuse, create fear and stifle any hope for progress towards a sustainable and equitable social, ecological and economic system. We are told that we must lower our expectations for the future as paying off our nation’s debt has become the number-one priority. Currently, the only solutions to this are to increase taxes (reducing our income) or take on more debt (and mortgage our future). These messages leave our parents suffering a reckoning of sorts as they try to come to terms with the kind of debt and planet their kids and grandkids are going to inherit.

But all of this fear around national debt is arguably unnecessary, at least according to several prominent economists including Nobel Prize winner Paul Krugman. So before we get into how Australia’s debt works and who we owe money to, could we use this severe and sudden shake-up as an opportunity to unearth and break down an outdated economic belief that owing money

Are federal government deficits a myth?

Australia’s budget is not like a household budget and it does not need to manage its money like one. Unlike local and state governments that consume the Australian dollar, the federal government is the sole creator of the Australian dollar. Take a minute to let that sink in.

It may first sound like an obvious and unhelpful piece of information. But consider the large-scale consequences of this: the Australian government can pay off all of its debt if it chooses to and not suffer from hyperinflation.

We understand that debt is bad for an individual, so logically we assume that it must also be bad for the federal government. Thanks to the recent interest in Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) and the rise in prominence of US economist Stephanie Kelton, who authored the recent game-changing book, The Deficit Myth, we are encouraged to challenge these beliefs. Stephanie obliterates the conventional thinking about federal government deficits and debt. Feeling lost yet? Think of debt as accumulated deficits that arise when the government spends more than it earns. Stay with us.

A simple comparison may be helpful. When we individually borrow money to buy a house, it is against the value of the house (the asset). When the federal government
borrows money, it is also against an asset, but instead of the asset is a building or land, the asset is the productive capacity of the Australian economy (that means investing in job creation, renewable energy, healthcare, education — essentially us and our natural resources). This changes things,

Who does Australia owe money to?

The majority (two-thirds) of our government debt is held by non-resident investors. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the United States and the United Kingdom are the biggest investors followed by Belgium, Japan and Hong Kong (SAR of China). China is our ninth-largest foreign investor.

Since COVID-19, foreign ownership of our debt has fallen and the Royal Bank of Australia (RBA) has made purchases to keep cash in the Australian economy (aka quantitative easing or the government effectively creating money to buy government treasuries). MMT finds these small short-term cash injections to be ineffective. doesn’t it? As long as the government deficits do not cause inflation, they should not be labelled as “overspending”.

So the greatest challenge we are facing is not our debt levels, but our current thinking on federal government debt, deficits and the government’s role in our economy. We must stop personifying our thinking about the way the federal government manages its money.

Here is how government debt currently works

Investors lend the government money and in return, the government pays the investor interest over a set period of time and the original loan amount back. These are called treasuries and they are issued (sold) and then resold in what is called the “secondary market”.

Australian treasuries provide value to our economy in three ways: firstly, as a very low-risk investment option (due to our high credit rating); secondly, for investors as a way for the federal government to get access to funds; and thirdly, to enable trade with other nations.

Making our deficits matter

According to Stephanie, “Government debts don’t force financial burdens forward onto future populations; increasing the deficit doesn’t make future generations poorer and reducing deficits won’t make them any richer.”

Governments consider productive deficits that deliver healthcare, education, urban planning, scientific research, agriculture and renewable energy as important — very important. These deficits can then contribute to a nation that simultaneously improves living standards, maintains a prosperous economy and heals our planet.

The only key economic impact that needs to be carefully considered when increasing our debt under MMT is inflation. However, Australia’s debt is relatively low compared to other advanced economies and and our own economic history. Australia’s net debt is currently approximately 26 per cent of GDP compared to 120 per cent of GDP at the end of WWII. Did the government respond by cutting spending and increasing taxes? No, it focused on building productive infrastructure, public housing and employment services to ensure Australians weren’t paying off this debt for generations to come. And it worked.

It is not the debt itself or those who we are in debt to that poses the greatest concern to us or our future generations. It’s that we might become obsessed with deficits and decide to cut spending instead of caring for and protecting our people and the planet.

So is it really a wild, belief-shaking perspective to see the federal budget as a “moral document and expression of our nation’s priorities” as Stephanie does? You decide.

Liz McLardy is a university lecturer, holistic accountant and financial wellness educator. 

For more visit @liz_mclardy on Instagram.

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Great Wrap

Have you ever thought about how much cling wrap the hospitality industry uses on any given day? How much wrap do you think wineries use to encase their pallets of wine? What about non-hospitality businesses, which ship billions of pallets around the world each year? The answer is a lot. A single winery, in fact, can use up to 3.5 million metres of plastic wrap in a single year. So while using reusable alternatives at home is great, industrial waste is still a huge problem and we need bigger and more scalable solutions if we’re really going to make an impact. Bank Australia customer Jordy Kay has one of those solutions. Jordy is the founder and CEO of Great Wrap, an Australian company that’s behind the world’s first compostable stretch wrap. Having started his career in the natural wine business, Jordy simply “couldn’t unsee” the staggering amount of plastic wrap the industry was churning through on a daily basis. “The most effective way that we can solve plastic waste and plastic pollution is through working with businesses, big or small, to begin changing their impact,” says Jordy. “A lot of businesses might claim to be ‘green’, but when you look behind the curtains, there are often huge problems. So I think going B2B, like we are, is a great starting point.”

Great Wrap’s product is 100 per cent compostable, leaves no trace of residue or microplastics and breaks down in 180 days once it’s put on the compost pile. The company’s goal is to remove one million tonnes of plastic from the environment within a year. Despite a long battle for tangible and lasting sustainability ahead, Jordy has faith in his fellow humans. “I genuinely believe people, by and large, are good, and I think that while companies are about maximising profit, they’re also increasingly about minimising their impact,” he shares. “Sure, some of that is coming from a political angle — Australia has 2025 packaging targets that say 100 per
cent of our packaging needs to be reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2025 or earlier — but consumers are pushing for it, too. Even companies like Coca-Cola are genuinely trying to limit their waste.” A passionate environmentalist, Jordy selffunded the research and creation of the Great Wrap product, which has already been picked up by clients both large and small in Australia and beyond. “It wasn’t just small businesses getting on board,” reveals Jordy. “We’ve been contacted by some huge, huge companies — beauty companies, skincare, soft drink, wine, meat and dairy. There isn’t just one industry reaching out to us — it’s really widespread,
which is incredible.”

For each box of Great Wrap sold, Jordy estimates they prevent 1.2 kilometres of plastic wrap from entering landfill. This fact makes the decision to switch to Great Wrap an absolute “no-brainer” for him. If we all follow Jordy’s lead and make the switch to only using recyclable and sustainable products in our homes, we will contribute to Great Wrap’s mission to end plastic pollution.

Jordy, what makes you feel the most alive and wild?

Coming up with new ideas for some of the world’s biggest problems often comes after a swim in the ocean. Being close to the force of the ocean means for a moment you can forget boundaries that usually exist in your day-to-day life and look at them from a whole new angle. That’s when we feel most alive!

For more, visit greatwrap.co. 

Road to Refuge

The refugee narrative in Australia is often dictated by the mainstream media. Not anymore. A new project aims to equip people from refugee backgrounds with the skills they need to tell their own stories and reclaim that narrative for themselves. Jeanine Hourani was born in Bahrain, but she was not born Bahraini. She’d inherited refugee status from her Palestinian father, who’d inherited it from his parents. Jeanine was third-generation stateless. And despite arriving in Australia in 1997, on her third birthday, to begin a new life, Jeanine had been ashamed of her refugee background for as long as she could remember. “Predominantly because of what was being said by the media and politicians,” she says. “And the Australian public just seemed to blindly follow and believe it.” That shame lasted until she was 20 years old, when she first told someone her story. This process completely changed not only how she felt about her past, but how she’d use her story to help define her future. “I realised the power that my story, and other refugee stories, had,” Jeanine remembers. “I think the more stories we get out there, the more likely we are to get rid of the negativity that permeates Australian society and move towards a more inclusive Australia.” True to her word, Jeanine is now working with Road to Refuge, an Australian nonprofit that has helped provide platforms for refugees since 2012. Jeanine is the director of the “In My Own Words” programme, an initiative funded in part by a Bank Australia customer grant. Billed as Road to Refuge’s “most concerted effort to date”, the programme aims to teach people from refugee backgrounds the essential skills they need to not just tell their stories, but potentially kick-start their own careers in the media, too. “The programme helps to catalyse this process by equipping participants with the skills and opportunities they need to tell their stories on their terms and in their own words,” adds Jeanine.

The programme will take participants through a series of workshops covering a range of essential topics centred around what it means to be a storyteller. As well as covering the written word, the programme — which is completely free — will take into account other mediums, such as filmmaking, photography and podcasts. It’ll include advice on how to navigate the media landscape, how to build a personal brand, how to pitch stories to magazines and even how to go about fundraising to help get a project off the ground. For Jeanine, now is the time to start changing the narrative for refugees in Australia. “Given everything that’s happening at a federal level, the upcoming election will be really, really hard for refugees and our communities,” she says. “We want to really broaden people’s perspectives of what a refugee story is instead of the single boatpeople narrative that currently exists.” In My Own Words will be facilitated by a range of experts — including journalists, film-makers, writers, artists, photographers and more — and offer participants the chance to develop their own project throughout its course. “We want to encourage diverse methods of storytelling such as photography, the written word, film and all other art forms and storytelling techniques,” says Jeanine.  “From this aspect, this programme is the first of its kind.”

Jeanine, what makes you feel the most alive and wild?

When I feel connected. Whether that’s through a conversation with another like-minded person, marching at a protest, or learning and thinking about how my own struggle intersects with so many others. I get my energy from being and feeling connected to others; from feeling like I am not alone in this work. That’s also where I get my drive and ambition from — the knowledge and the understanding that all our struggles are linked. Audre Lorde famously said, “I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.” The fact that all our struggles are linked means that solutions can only happen when
we stand together in strength and solidarity, and that makes me feel like I’m part of something bigger than just me and makes me feel optimistic about the future. That’s what drives me to keep up the good fight.

Tim, what makes you feel the most alive and wild?

Definitely the ocean. Surfing and just being in the ocean, especially when it’s in a wild (but not too wild) state is such an invigorating experience for me. It’s the delicate dance between the enormous vulnerability of being in an environment where, by all accounts, humans don’t belong, coupled with the exhilaration of riding lumps of water created by distant forces as they expire their abundant energy onto naturally shaped coastlines.

At the heart of Jeanine’s and Road to Refuge’s efforts is the hope of a ripple effect: the more people who are empowered to tell their stories, the more people will be reading (or hearing or watching) those stories. And the more people who are reading those stories, the more people are likely to be inspired to tell their own, and the bigger the ripple becomes. “I feel even more empowered seeing people’s perceptions about refugees change when I tell my story,” says Jeanine. “I only wish I could’ve started telling it earlier, but In My Own Words aims to remedy that.”

For more, visit roadtorefuge.com.

Ocean Impact Organisation

More than 70 per cent of the planet is made up of water. And as a global society, we have — objectively speaking — wreaked havoc on it. Among other issues, sea levels are rising; pesticides, sewage, run-off and oil spills are all flowing into the oceans; around 31 per cent of global fish stocks are overfished; and World Animal Protection reports that some 640,000 tonnes of fishing equipment is abandoned in the ocean each year. As Sea Shepherd Conservation Society founder, Paul Watson, once put it: “If the oceans die, we die.” Thankfully, there are a few entrepreneurial souls out there who are hell-bent on finding ways to combine business with activism to save the ocean. Nick Chiarelli and Tim Silverwood are two such souls. They’re the co-founders of Ocean Impact Organisation (OIO), Australia’s first ocean impact ecosystem and start-up accelerator for businesses and entrepreneurs making a positive impact on the ocean. Tim, a long-time environmentalist (and
previous CEO of Take 3 for the Sea), and Nick, a chartered accountant by trade, struggled to understand why more businesses weren’t focused on doing good things with capital, so decided to take matters into their own hands. Both have a love of the ocean, growing up surfing on New South Wales’ Central Coast
and Northern Beaches. “Whenever I’m close to the ocean, I’m happy,” Tim says. “The ocean just has this incredible draw.”

When Nick began looking into the start-up space, he quickly saw a gap in the market. There were software start-ups, real estate accelerators, start-ups for agribusiness and renewable energy. “I thought, ‘Why not for the ocean?’” he says. OIO has teamed up with a variety of experts in the field, as well as business mentors,
industry partners, research institutions and investors to inspire and educate others on just how essential healthy oceans are for our existence, all through innovation, positive leadership and good business. “We’re incredibly passionate about helping people increase their ocean literacy and understanding of the importance of
the ocean,” Tim explains. “And, of course, preventing the abysmal destruction of ocean ecosystems and wildlife.” Last year, OIO launched Pitchfest 2020, a virtual competition and event aiming to showcase and celebrate new ideas that will have a positive impact on our oceans. The 2020 winner was Planet Protector Packaging,
a company that uses waste from the wool industry to create insulated packaging to replace problematic expanded polystyrene. In support, Bank Australia funded a cash prize to help Planet Protector Packaging accelerate their idea. “We saw a broad range of applications including agricultural run-off, coral reef restoration, ocean energy, fisheries by-catch and plastic alternatives, just to name a few,” says Nick. Both Tim and Nick posit that it’s time to change our relationship with the ocean and start doing things differently. “Business as usual has failed us,” Tim says. “We need business as unusual to show us another way.” You can do many things to contribute to the work Tim and Nick are doing, such as picking up rubbish whenever you see it in nature, choosing sustainable products, consuming less meat and growing your own food.

For more, visit ocean-impact.org.

Discover Clean Money and how you can make a positive difference to people and our planet through making a switch to a responsible bank today.

For more stories from Bank Australia customers, visit bankaust.com.au/cleanmoney

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By being authentic, living my true purpose and having a positive impact on people’s lives. Also, by sharing life with family and friends, living by the beach and creating a business that empowers people by adding value to their lives. My life has meaning if I can live each day with a positive outlook, have a feeling of contentment with my circumstances, have balance in all the important areas of my life, and take the time to pursue what I am passionate about.

What are the values behind your ethical cosmetics brand, Eye of Horus?

The ultimate goal of our brand is to provide high-performance makeup that is kind to your body and the planet. All of us at Eye of Horus wholeheartedly believe in positive change. So much so, we aim to be an industry leader in ethical beauty. Being from Byron Bay, we are fortunate enough to be surrounded by the natural wonders of the world, which inspire us daily. Working towards preserving nature as Mother Earth intended seems the only way forward. We are proudly cruelty-free, with products made locally using natural and organic ingredients used by the Ancient Egyptians. Our brand message is to empower all women to be and feel confident and beautiful. This appreciation of beauty extends to our commitment to ensure ethical manufacturing processes, from sourcing sustainable ingredients to consideration of packaging and animal welfare.

What are you influenced by when creating colour palettes and products?

As a business owner and time-poor mumma, I am inspired to create a product that I know I would personally use and that would benefit me. The product development process generally begins with an idea or concept that fills a gap or solves a problem, yet encapsulates our ethics and the essence of who we are as a brand. Our product development philosophy is to deliver quality products that are easy to use, that are effective and that contain healthy ingredients. When creating the new colour palettes, I had the everyday woman in mind. The Glow colour palette collection is extremely versatile and multi-purpose. It can be used on cheeks, face and eyes to give you a fresh no-makeup look while enhancing and illuminating your skin.

You weave the beauty and mystique of the Ancient Egyptians into your branding and products. What draws you to their symbolism and rituals?

In my early 20s I was looking for a natural yet effective makeup alternative that actually worked for my sensitive eyes and allergies. I always made my own skincare and products with my mum and we knew the basics of cosmetic formulations and the power of plant-based ingredients. I became fascinated with pure active ingredients and their healing and regenerating benefits. I developed an Australian organic skincare brand and began studying naturopathy to further my knowledge and interest.

Through research into plant-based ingredients, I discovered the Ancient Egyptians were the originators of makeup and beauty. They used natural waxes and oils and key ingredients and lined their eyes with black eyeliner, creating the Eye of Horus outline for the purpose of beauty and spiritual protection. Inspired by this knowledge and their principles and philosophies, we developed a range of makeup products which embraced these concepts and ideals.

Our brand name and iconic range takes its inspiration from the Eye of Horus symbol represented by the kohl-rimmed eyes of the Ancient Egyptians who wore eye makeup, as they believed it offered magical power and protection as well as a statement of beauty.

The history, mythology and spirituality of the Ancient Egyptian civilisation has always amazed me. Their symbolism, rituals and values are still relevant to us today. My aim is to unlock their ancient beauty secrets, bring them to life and adapt them to suit our modern-day lifestyles.

What are the benefits of Moringa oil, which is used in many of your products?

We use Moringa oil across our entire range. Moringa oil was one of the seven sacred oils of Egypt as described in the Ebers papyrus, an Egyptian compilation of medical texts dated about 1550 BC, one of the oldest-known medical works. It had many uses throughout Ancient Egypt, including the extensive use in pharaonic medicine and was even filled in vases and placed inside their tombs.

The Egyptians recognised its natural protective properties and used it on their skin to protect themselves from the harsh desert conditions. Moringa, also known as the Tree of Life, is rich in minerals and vitamins and contains all the requirements for skin vitality and health.

What are some of your non-negotiables when it comes to ingredients?

It is our duty to ethically source only the finest, naturally derived, organic ingredients wherever possible while ensuring we deliver high-performing products that last. All of what we offer is paraben-free, gluten-free and harsh chemical-free. Our product formulations and naturally derived ingredients use ancient oils and waxes to create modern, cruelty-free, luxury cosmetics.

We pledge to always and forever be cruelty-free and campaign for kindness to all creatures both great and small. We aim to be 100-per-cent vegan and the only reason this is not the case is due to our ethically sourced beeswax used in our Goddess Mascara and Goddess Pencils. Other than these products, the entire range is 100-per-cent vegan.

What’s next for Eye of Horus?

In 2021 we hope to expand our range into the face and skin category with a collection of foundations, skin-protective creams and precious healing oils. Our philosophy underpins our actions and approach to be sustainable and ethical in everything we do. It is our commitment to be at the forefront in ethical eco-friendly and high-performance organic cosmetics known for their integrity worldwide, giving us the means to really make change and support charities that work at making this world a better place for all.

For more, visit eyeofhoruscosmetics.com or @eyeofhoruscosmetics on Instagram.

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Even though people, planet and purses feel more fragile than ever before, financial sustainability and fulfilment is not an impossibility. The meaningful contribution you can make by being conscientious citizens and consciously caring for your money also offers a calm and centred space from which you can embark on life with renewed confidence.

Yes, you have heard it all before, change is inevitable. But the foundations that create a financially sustainable and fulfilling life remain the same. Master these foundations first before you explore any shiny new share or property investment strategy.

1. Make your money stand for something

Think carefully about how you use your money and what it says about you. Does choosing to spend less than you earn make you stingy? Or are you making a stand for financial sustainability, self-care and caring for those you love?

What matters most to you? You decide, then put your financial resources behind it, whether it’s nourishing food for your family, being able to contribute meaningfully to the causes closest to your heart, the security of your homely sanctuary or your business. You may have heard the saying “don’t tell me what you value, show me your bank statements”.

One of the most profound money realisations is knowing that it isn’t what you earn that counts, but how you use it — so spend and save consciously.

2. Do an expense autopsy

Find out exactly what you are spending your money on and then dig deep, particularly into your ongoing plans. Separate the fixed and variable components of your contracts like electricity and mobile phone plans, the daily charge with the usage charge, so you can compare plans to find the best value and know how you can engage with these services in the cheapest way possible.

Uncover why you buy what you do and from who. Is spending an extra $10k for a hybrid car an investment? A contribution to the climate crisis? Or does it put your financial wellbeing at risk? It is important to be conscious about your consumer choices but also to balance their impact on people, the planet and your purse.

3. Feed your mind and choose your tools wisely

Humans aren’t particularly rational creatures when it comes to money. This can make you vulnerable to impulsive financial decisions and to terrible investment advice. You must invest in feeding your mind with credible and independent financial information and be vigilant to disregard the dodgy distractions.

Choose your own money management tools that play to your strengths; go old school with pen and paper, unleash your spreadsheet superhero, or try a free app like TrackMySpend or PocketBook.

4. Challenge the status quo

Most of your money decisions are shaped by your childhood experiences, parents, friends and the media, which influences your definition of success, failure and fulfilment. Make sure you are not unconsciously buying into someone else’s dream house, lifestyle, holiday and career choices.

Even though interest rates are at record lows and owning your home still feels like an impossible dream, is it really your dream?

Even if you could afford it, is it the best decision for your family? Renting can give you flexibly as your family grows. Renting is great if you travel regularly and makes moving for the right school, job or experience easier. Remember that a family makes a house a home regardless of if you rent or buy.

5. Don’t owe anyone anything

There are no two ways about it; having high interest or high fee debt is a disaster. If you don’t have the money to buy something, don’t buy it. Remember you are in charge and there is boldness in being able to back away.

See owning a credit card as a reflection of your genuine and exceptional self-discipline skills and forget Afterpay and payday lenders. They make it incredibly easy to lose track of your spending and fall prey to the manipulative power of marketing. Finding yourself tangled in what seems like a never-ending jungle of debt is unfortunately a common story; choose to not make it yours.

If you have high interest or high fee debt, then make it your mission to eliminate it as quickly as possible. Start with the highest interest/fee debt first. It doesn’t make sense to earn two per cent on your money in a bank account when you are being charged 18 per cent for your debt. Particularly in times of uncertainty, you will multiply your options by diminishing your debts.

A remedy for debt is using cash (or debit card) to keep your spending on track. This should include an amount that honours and accommodates your inner spontaneous shopper so you can have a satisfying splurge that doesn’t cause a hangover of intense anxiety.

6. Save in the name of self-sustainability

Build up a “just in case” fund to protect your peace in the face of job loss and sickness. Ideally you will want to build up enough savings to cover three to six months of expenses for your rent or mortgage, groceries and electricity. This may seem like a lot of money, so start small with $1000 in the bank to cover routine emergencies like car repairs and then build it up. Keep this in a high-interest account even though the rates are low at the moment. You need to be able to access it easily when you need it.

So before you start contemplating the more complex questions of property, stocks and the world of macroeconomics, master these six money lessons and don’t underestimate how powerful they will be in enabling you to peacefully coexist alongside the daily uncertainties of the job and financial markets.

Liz McLardy is a university lecturer, accountant and financial wellness educator. She runs consultations and courses that have been completed in more than 70 countries and aims to inspire and empower women to be the masters of managing their money. For more visit @liz_mclardy on Instagram.

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With the dramatic changes our work and social lives have taken this year, it may feel like we’ve hit pause on “real life”. On social media I’ve read many laments of wanting to “delete 2020” and comments like, “When will we get back to reality?” This makes me consider if our world is “on hold” or if this pandemic space we now inhabit is more liminal and less simplistic than we think? However, this isn’t just a gap in time. Time is still running and unfortunately 2020 can’t be cancelled.

The term “in real life” or IRL emerged in the early days of the internet to distinguish between offline and online, positioning offline as the “most real”. However, as the internet has progressed in gigabyte leaps and bounds and our lives have continued to embrace the digital, it seems misguided to dismiss our online interactions as “unreal”.

If the online meeting I had yesterday isn’t “real”, does that cheekily mean my deadline is also not real? Are the distanced classes my partner is taking no longer important or assessable because they’re off-campus? Or do we need to reconsider the weight and authenticity of our online interactions and reframe what we consider “real”?

“I remember in late 2016 I went to the US and met up with a friend I made online,” says writer, editor and digital media artist Rory Green. “I remember being surprised how natural it felt after we hugged, like we had always hung out face-to-face even though we rarely video called one another.”

I have many online friendships I cherish just as much as in-person hangouts with my pub trivia teammates. And my relationship with my long-term long-distance partner is dominated by instant messages, emojis, selfies and phone chats, all of which are extremely loving, sincere and real.

“Removing ‘IRL’ from the ‘online versus IRL’ debate has made me really reconsider how I use tech and online spaces —, not just as a way of meeting new people, but as a way of maintaining existing relationships too,” says digital storyteller Tegan Webb. “All intimacies feel different, for sure, but not inferior. Just different.”

Admittedly, talking to my partner on the phone is always different to speaking with them in-person and there’s a magical feeling attached to being in the same room as them, especially after being apart for so long. However, when we’re online we’re also not really “apart” because neither interaction is lesser than the other, just different.

Online intimacy

When contemplating her online communications, Tegan says, “It’s funny the things that have really stuck with me — friends leaving voice messages instead of texts, seeing people’s bedrooms in the backgrounds of video calls, having unexpectedly long chats while playing online games.”

As our new digital day-to-day continues to unfold, our intimacies and the ways we relate to one another have shifted. I love noticing people’s pets in the background of their Zoom calls or seeing Instagram live stories of them cooking dinner at home, just like me.

“It feels silly to separate people into URL/IRL friendships because the spaces bleed into one another,” says Rory. “I’d guess that many more people are conscious of this bleed now that so much COVID-19 communication and socialising is done online.”

This “bleed” is one I recently witnessed when attending the Emerging Writers’ Festival closing-night event. I turned on my fairy lights and danced to DJ Papiwhatsgood alongside fellow writers and artists, their friends and partners, and of course their pets. I was able to attend this entire festival without leaving my house, giving me the comfort of knowing I didn’t need to risk my health to have fun.

The biggest surprise was feeling like I was in the exact same room with other people dancing and loving life even though we were all in our separate isolation bubbles. Like many things that are considered merely black and white, the binary of “real life” versus “online” is full of grey areas and far more fluid than we think.

“I think people who don’t accept the premise that online interactions are ‘real’ often do so to avoid accountability,” explains Rory, referencing the online bullying and trolling that can occur in semi-public internet spaces. “To me it seems like a way of downgrading the significance of these events to suggest things are either not that ‘important’ or conversely not that ‘bad’.”

The value we place on certain experiences and interactions has an impact on how we perceive them. To dismiss online as less “real” than offline downgrades the negative impacts of online bullying and the significant impacts internet communities have on movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter. Such socio-political online movements have successfully mobilised using social media and other internet platforms. To dismiss online as less “real” also deprives us of the many ways we can communicate and form community, especially during these times.

The unexpected intimacy of online spaces is revealing new and hopeful ways for us to interact with each other and find our communities. “To me, being ‘real’ is about being authentic,” says Kieran Bicheno, digital editor of Standard Media. “Having the choice of text, audio, visual or physical communication gives people far greater ability to be ‘real’ to themselves.”

Attending my weekly yoga classes isn’t the same now we’re not on premises, but my bedroom floor and my yoga mat create a great makeshift studio and seeing my fellow classmates’ videos as they practise beside me feels both peaceful and personal. These classes aren’t any less enjoyable or any less “real” than my regular in-studio classes. They’re just different. And I’m okay with that.

Rae White is a non-binary writer and poet. Their poetry collection Milk Teeth (UQP) won the 2017 Thomas Shapcott Poetry Prize. Their short story The Body Remembers won second prize in the 2019 Rachel Funari Prize for Fiction. Rae is the editor of #EnbyLife Journal for non-binary creatives.

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I always try to live each day with the least amount of responsibility possible. This is not to avoid feeling responsible but more that any change of mind or sudden desire can be easily implemented in my daily life. I’ve always disliked being tied down to things or answering to any kind of direct authority. So, I have no routine, no kids, no mortgage, no boss … and I feel great about it.

Creating miniature wearable sculptures in my studio all day is my dream job. Although my work feels like a demanding child at times, I have to remind myself of the creative freedom I am lucky to have. Especially in this ever-changing retail and fashion industry landscape. Accepting change as it comes, in all its forms, is a great way to live a wild and meaningful life.

What inspires and influences your jewellery designs?

I see myself as a sponge. From growing up through fragments of multiple cultures (my father is Vietnamese and my mother French Canadian), I have always had the ability to be a great observer and a dreamer. I take in something foreign, digest it and eventually create my own world out of it.

Topics of inspiration have been various but are almost always processed in the same way. I create fantasy worlds out of my desire to explore forms and textures that remind me of treasures from another time, craftsmanship from a foreign culture, museum-worthy finds to be given to someone to wear in their daily modern life. I first had a wave of fascination for embroideries, weavings and tassels, then turned my attention to metal casts of the Bronze age and archeological treasures.

As of late, I am fascinated by the simplicity of nature, florals, vines and my fingerprints, as well as the opulence and the tragedy of the way royal families ruled throughout history (and, of course, their gem-stacked jewelry!). From Versailles to the Romanovs and from their oblivion towards the people they ruled to their seclusion and their delusions. I find the duality compelling, especially in the COVID-19 era when our fragile nature revealed itself gloriously, while we secluded ourselves and slowly dissolved our toxic society in a shouting fit of political disillusions through internet memes.

What are your favourite materials to work with and why?

I love working with various semi-precious stones I gather from my travels. I add these pieces to my Stone Series, a limited-edition one-of-a-kind side collection that I make whenever I have time. Last December I was in Vietnam and then in February I traveled to Mexico right before the world closed its borders. I was able to bring back gorgeous stones from these two destinations, which most likely will sadly be the last batch for a little while.

This way of working allows me to create pieces that are not necessarily reproducible, which makes the designing process a lot less restricting and allows my creative juices to go the extra mile with wilder pieces. In fact, my new series came out in June so be sure to check it out. Featured are baroque pearls, zebra jasper, chain linked agates, yellow opals, amber and many more.

What is the making process behind ORA-C?

I started my work hand-making everything as I never wanted never wanted my pieces produced by others to grow my numbers and my company. I had the opportunity a few times to scale up and establish a system where my pieces could be manufactured but chose to stay a small designer. This means I have full control and I’m and deep in my own making process.

At first, this used to embarrass me. I found myself pretending to be bigger than I was on the outside, just to keep up with what the industry seemed to require. But I quickly understood that my stubborn approach was worthy, and that standing my grounds to sail happily in my small business status was enough to earn me a spot as a respected jewelry designer, locally and abroad.

What are some of the ways you’re reducing your impact on the planet?

I’m a small business so I produce less and on-demand. Most of my pieces are made to order or are one-of-a-kinds. I can’t really say I’m a “green” company, as I think it pretentious to greenwash a practice when you do not have a 100 per cent environmentally friendly solution on all fronts of your business. For example, simply by shipping any product abroad creates a significant carbon footprint. I do, however, strive to reduce my impact on the environment the best that I can.

I attempt to reduce the use of chemical products as much as possible in my minimal packaging and also in my choice of materials. In small bulk, I buy unique end-of-series or hand-carved stones from my travels or I hand-cast my metals from my local foundry. It’s a joy to work this way. My fingerprints are pressed in all my pieces; it’s my hands that form and finish them.

How has COVID-19 isolation been for you?

I had many ups and downs. In the beginning, it was hard to imagine putting all my past months efforts to a halt. A lot of what I do has to do with momentum, and when this finally stops, it can feel like there is no more rewards to claim after so much work.

When I realized there was nothing I could do about it and that the entire world was going through the exact same thing (and some a lot worse than I was), I found total peace of mind. I started eating really well, I took up knitting socks and although I felt a little crazy at times, I was lucky to have my loving partner next to me. Since early April, I’ve been able to work at the studio again and things have slowly picked up. Just this week my foundry started casting again so, really, there is nothing to complain about at this point. In fact, it feels great to live without the pressure of time and expectation.

My business has been spared by being such a small entity and having little economic responsibility attached to it. I’ve heard of so many horror stories from fellow designers who had to deal with large cancelled store orders and factory debts building up. I kind of feel like an ant who survived the COVID-19 storm.

What’s next for ORA-C?

Honestly, it’s hard to say. Hopefully great things are to come but I would rather not presume too much as we live in a bizarrely unstable economy – especially in the retail and fashion industry. Luckily, I am not too closely linked to it and have maintained quite an independent stance for a while. My online sales are what sustain me for now, and hopefully store buyers will start their purchases again.

I guess I will rely on the survival skills I have armored myself with from my freelance hustle days in New York City and power through with the beautiful things I can still push out into the world.

For more, visit ora-c.com or @oracjewelry on Instagram.

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Why choose non-hormonal contraception?

• You want to keep your own wonderful endogenous hormones flowing through your body so they can go about their job making you feel, function and look your best.
• You want to understand and know your body on the deepest level, which means not “switching off” your own hormones.
• You want to work with your cyclical nature as a woman.
• You want to ensure you are optimising your fertility as best as possible. Remember that fertility is much more than having a baby; it’s about feeling your best, most balanced self.
• You want to avoid the lengthy list of side effects that can arise with taking hormonal contraception.
• You are taking medications that are contraindicated with hormonal methods of contraception.
• You wish to have non-invasive contraceptive options.

If you answered yes to any of the above, then here is a list of possible methods for you.

The Fertility Awareness Method

Does it work?

With perfect use, the fertility awareness method is 99.8 per cent effective as a contraceptive method. However, with typical use the method is 76 per cent effective.

How does it work?

The fertility awareness method (FAM), also known as the symptom-thermal method, is an evidence-based method that is based on correctly identifying your fertile and non-fertile windows through your body’s natural signs and symptoms that are present with changing hormone levels throughout the month so you can achieve or avoid pregnancy. FAM involves tracking your menstrual cycle days, charting the changes in your cervical mucus and additionally, if you wish to, charting your basal body temperature each day.

How do you practise perfect use?

• Learn this method from a certified fertility awareness educator and commit to a three-month minimum learning phase with your teacher where you review your charts monthly
• Use an additional barrier method for contraception for a minimum of three months and until you feel confident in accurately understanding and identifying your fertile and non-fertile windows
• Dedication to continuous and complete charting every day
• Have support from partners, friends, family and community

Advantages

• Evidenced-based method, shown to be as effective (if not more) as other contraceptive methods when used correctly
• Side effect free
• Non-hormonal
• Free (except for a one-off thermometer purchase)
• Can be used to improve conception chances through understanding accurate time of ovulation
• Deepens understanding and awareness of one’s body
• Empowers women
• Can indicate health of thyroid and potential hormonal imbalances
• Aligned with religious beliefs

Disadvantages

• Requires daily practice
• You must abstain from intercourse or use a barrier method in fertile window
• Takes at least three cycles to familiarise yourself with it
• A barrier method must be used while learning for at least three months
• Does not protect against STDs

Condoms

Does it work?

With perfect use, condoms are 98 per cent effective, however with incorrect, use condoms are 88 per cent effective as a contraceptive method.

How does it work?

The condom is placed on the erect penis and rolled down to the base, creating a barrier method that traps semen following ejaculation.

Advantages

• Available in different sizes
• Protects against STDs
• Non-hormonal, non-invasive reliable form of contraception
• Easy to use
• Low cost
• Minimal side effects compared to other contraceptives
• Does not require a prescription

Disadvantages

• Must be used consistently and correctly to be effective
• Condoms can break
• Oil-based products can damage latex and polyisoprene condoms
• Need to store in a cool place away from sharp objects (not in wallets or cars!)
• Latex can cause vaginal irritation and allergies
• Can only use once
• Need to be aware of use by date
• Not controlled solely by the female, so mutual understanding and agreement of contraception by both parties needs to be spoken about and adhered to

Diaphragms

Does it work?

Diaphragms are 82 per cent to 86 per cent effective, depending on correct use.

How does it work?

A diaphragm is a shallow cup made of silicone. The diaphragm is inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix before intercourse, creating a barrier method to prevent sperm from entering the uterus. It’s advised to use a spermicide gel with diaphragms.

Advantages

• Can be inserted up to two hours before intercourse
• Has minimal side effects compared to other contraceptives
• Non-hormonal
• Controlled by the user
• Can buy without a script

Disadvantages

• Does not protect against STDs
• Only one size available in Australia
• Lower efficacy compared to other forms of contraception
• Efficacy reduces if not inserted properly or removed too quickly following intercourse
• Possible vaginal irritation from silicone or gel
• May increase risk of bladder infection
• Has to be kept in place for at least six hours following intercourse
• Has a used by date
• Can break or tear
• May be uncomfortable
• May be difficult for user to insert
• Spermicide can change vaginal microflora

Withdrawal

Does it work?

80 per cent to 96 per cent effective, depending on correct use.

How does it work?

Withdrawal method involves withdrawal of the penis from the vagina before ejaculating.

Advantages

• No hormonal side effects
• Free

Disadvantages

• User dependant — male must be confident of withdrawing in time
• Pre-ejaculate can provide enough sperm to cause pregnancy in fertile window
• Does not protect against STDs

Copper IUD

Does it work?

Greater than 99 per cent effective at preventing pregnancy.

How does it work?

A copper T-380A intrauterine device is inserted into the uterus by a qualified doctor or gynaecologist. The copper IUD changes the endometrium lining and causes local inflammation in the uterus that prevents the sperm from reaching the fallopian tubes. Copper is concentrated in the cervical mucus, inhibiting sperm’s ability to swim.

Advantages

• Low maintenance — five years of contraceptive protection without daily administration
• Non-hormonal, does not prevent ovulation
• Does not present with hormonal-related side effects
• Does not interfere with other medications

Disadvantages

• Invasive
• Complications may arise when inserting and removing from uterus, such as perforation
• Uterus may expel the IUD
• Increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease
• May cause painful periods and irregular bleeding
• May lead to increased risk of infections
• Does not protect against STDs
• May lowers zinc levels as copper competes with zinc in the body

Ema Taylor is a naturopath, clinical nutritionist and certified fertility awareness educator. For more, visit emataylor.com or @emataylornaturopathy on Instagram.

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The qualities I value most about myself are my determination and positivity. I think these have been crucial in enhancing so many aspects of my life. In work I love being able to have flexibility and diversity.

How was St. Agni created and why?

My partner and I started St. Agni from square one. We had $3000, little to no experience and not a lot of free time (due to us both having full-time jobs). What we did have was an idea to create simple pieces we felt were difficult to find in the market. We launched the label in 2014 with just three bags and it has been growing ever since.

Can you share the story behind your name, St. Agni?

St Agni, pronounced ‘saint ag-nee’, is the name of my Nona. She really is a true saint in our eyes. Nona immigrated to Australia from Greece in the 1970s when my mother was four. She lived through many obstacles and is a true inspiration to everyone she encounters. Her attitude is so positive and she is the most kind, gracious and caring person.

What are the values of St. Agni?

The values of St. Agni are basically our personal values that extend through our lives and our company:

1. Be kind — to others, to yourself and to the earth.
2. Be authentic and genuine — we aim to be real in everything we do, including what we produce and how we communicate.
3. Quality – create quality products using natural materials.
4. Be passionate – passionate in our hearts and minds.
5. Enjoy the journey.

Where do you source your materials and how important is sourcing quality/sustainable products?

As we have grown, the places we source materials from have also expanded. We try to source our materials locally and in close proximity to where the product is being manufactured. It is also really important to us that the materials we use are natural. Tracing the true source of our materials is something we want to improve on — it’s a big job to trace where every piece of hardware originates, but it is certainly something we are working towards.

What is your favourite part of the creation process?

I actually enjoy all parts of the process. I really love the beginning when we research and imagine up a new season, and then I love sampling and seeing our ideas start to develop. And, of course, I love seeing when it all comes together and then merchandising it in our stores. By the time all of that is done, I’m ready and excited to do it all over again for a new season. Our seasons are relatively slow compared to a lot of other brands, so it’s nice to enjoy every step. We have recently hired another designer and it’s great to be working alongside someone else and bounce ideas around.

You note that St. Agni has a love of nostalgia. We’d love to hear more about how you weave nostalgia into your products.

One of our favourite references when researching new collections is the past. I love taking something from an era like the 1960s and making it new and modern, and putting our twist on it.

How does your location in Byron Bay influence your designs and brand?

I feel so lucky to live and work in such a beautiful corner of the world. Byron Bay is a really unique place in that there are so many flourishing start-up businesses here and they all support each other and work together to grow and learn collectively. Byron is really relaxed, which influences our design and colours. You can’t help but be inspired here.

How would you describe your personal style?

It’s very simple. You will likely find me wearing vintage denim and a simple white tee most days. My wardrobe is basically all denim — white and natural. I don’t buy into trends; instead I invest in pieces that I will wear for years and items that are made from natural materials.

What do you think the future of fashion is in terms of sustainability?

This is a huge question to answer. Unfortunately, I don’t think fashion can be sustainable. Buying new items isn’t entirely sustainable, however I think it’s about making the right choices when we choose to consume. It’s best to avoid fast fashion items that will end up unwanted in landfill. Some ways you can do this is by buying from brands that have recyclable or biodegradable materials and packaging; by choosing natural fabrics; and by choosing pieces you will want to wear forever.

The brand is expanding rapidly with the opening of your new Brisbane boutique. Where do you see St. Agni in a few years’ time?
We are really happy with how things are going and where we are at. The business has grown so fast and now we just really want to nurture every aspect and focus on all the amazing partnerships we have built and grown, as well as our team, and ultimately create a really strong foundation. Then perhaps open a few more stores!

For more, visit st-agni.com

The post Leather love: The St. Agni story appeared first on Wellbeing Wild.

“Your nutrient levels might be low. Let’s get some bloods done,” Kirsty Wirth from Kultured Wellness suggested when I voiced my frustrations about the crickets over our weekly video call. “You can get very sensitive to sounds when you’re low in nutrients. It’s a sign your body is working overtime to rid toxins from your body,” she explained with a knowing smile. “Go and get yourself some liver pâté.”

I had just started the Kultured Wellness one-on-one program and was struggling through my first cleanse. Wirth is the founder of Kultured Wellness, an Australian-based company dedicated to providing quality education, programs and products to support optimum gut health. Since starting Kultured Wellness in 2015, she has helped over 2000 people with illnesses such as autoimmune conditions like Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and arthritis right through to learning and behavioural issues in autism, sleep issues, fertility issues, Alzheimer’s disease and mental health.

I consider myself a healthy person; I exercise daily, eat lots of fruit and veg, avoid dairy and gluten due to sensitivities and try my best to say no to sugar. Despite this, however, I experience major bloating, brain fog and irregular menstrual cycles and have done so for about seven years. I just accepted this to be my “normal” way of being until I heard Wirth share her story in a health podcast.

As she spoke, I was drawn to Wirth’s incredible depth of knowledge about gut health and the warmth of her words. With honesty, she shared how a lifetime of significant gut health issues had affected her and her family’s health.

The beginning

I started the Kultured Wellness program in March and, under the expert guidance of Wirth, I successfully moved into stage one: ketosis. This phase utilises the body’s ability to produce ketones. When fat is metabolised for energy in the absence of carbohydrates, ketones are what fuel the body. Being in ketosis can help to improve the immune system, kill bad bacteria and parasites and reduce inflammation markers.

At the beginning, my diet was very restrictive. I was avoiding carbs, sugar, gluten, dairy (except for butter and ghee), soy, grains, nuts, seeds, high-fructose fruit and raw foods.

In their place, I added good fats, protein, lots of bone broth, liver pâté, organ meats, dulse flakes and a plethora of steamed vegetables. I also fermented everything in sight, including bananas and carrots, and introduced a few gut-health superstars: the Kultured Wellness coconut yoghurt and coconut kefirs. Easy to make at home, the cultures are jam-packed with powerful live probiotics and taste delicious.

Along with the Kultured Wellness medicinal blends, I supported my gut with activated charcoal tablets, bentonite clay, biofilm digestive enzymes and gut-sealing powder. I made sure I took plenty of time to rest, did coffee enemas when I was experiencing tough detox symptoms like headaches, and started a mouth biome cleansing routine which consisted of tongue scraping, coconut oil pulling, and rinsing my mouth with hydrogen peroxide.

With my new list of foods to avoid, the daily herbal tonics and detoxing protocol including regular coffee enemas, there was a lot going on in those first few months. I didn’t mind, though, because by the six-week mark, I was starting to feel really good. I was waking up without a bloated stomach, had energy in the afternoon and was falling in love with fermented foods.

I was also enjoying learning about gut health on the online Kultured Wellness platform. In the user-friendly program, Wirth shares the latest gut-health research, education modules, homework exercises, videos and much more. The incredibly dense and extensive collection of knowledge, grounded in the latest scientific evidence, forms the basis of the legacy she is creating.

Microba

Early on in the program, Kultured Wellness organised a Microba stool test for me. Microba is an Australian-based company that uses rigorous scientific methods to deliver in-depth gut microbiome testing and analysis.

The results of my Microba Insights test surprised me. My protein digestion and fibre levels were very low, and my sugar levels were high. My GABA, an important neurotransmitter that helps to reduce depression and anxiety, was average and my butyrate levels were low. During our regular catch-up, Wirth and I discussed the detailed Microba results and she shared many insights. “Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid that is very important for gut health,” she said. “Butyrate is the main fuel source for gut cells. It helps to keep the gut cell barrier intact, can reduce inflammation and helps control appetite.”

I spent a few more hours reading my Microba report, learning of all the different species in my gut, the species it lacked and what I could do to increase my microbial diversity.

Parasite

About three months into the program, as I was completing my usual morning coffee enema, I was surprised to see that I had passed three worms. Immediately, I emailed Wirth to let her know. She replied with, “Excellent news! You’re creating an environment they no longer want to live in!”

Under Wirth’s instruction, I went to the doctor to provide a stool sample. They ran two tests which both came back positive for Dientamoeba fragilis, a parasite that is commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract of humans. The parasite, which can cause abdominal pain, loose stools, fatigue and weight loss, had probably overstayed its welcome by about seven years. It was time for it to go!

Cleanses

Over the course of the six-month gut health protocol, I did three cleanses: a candida cleanse and two parasite cleanses. After my last (but not final) cleanse, it was time for another Microba test. Compared to my first test, my GABA and butyrate levels had gone through the roof! My digestion potential had increased exponentially, and my fibre and protein levels had soared. “Your folate is off the charts. That is brilliant news!” Wirth exclaimed, adding that folate or folic acid play an important role in cell repair. But, the most exciting news of all was that my parasite had finally checked out!

“The real question is: how do you feel?” she asked me. I looked at her with a smile. “Like a new woman. Like my 23-year-old self again. I’m experiencing high energy, incredible mental clarity and I’m free from yucky gut issues. I’m also free from the shackles of screeching crickets and parasites!”

To learn more, visit kulturedwellness.com

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