Why Early Years Testing Matters – And Why Parents Don’t Need to Fear It
By: Bec Harris
When parents hear the word testing, it often brings anxiety. Will my child fall behind? Are they being judged? Does this affect their future?
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Kind Words, Strong Love
By: Telana Sladen
Love expert Pastor Phil Ayres explains the impact our words, tone of voice and body language have on the way we speak and show love to others.
How Does Nature Affect Your Mental Health?
By: Telana Sladen
Common wisdom has always been that fresh air and sunshine are good for us. But what impact does spending time outside really have?
Sometimes Life’s Red Lights are for Your Protection
By: Kourtney Smith
Sometimes, everything goes smoothly in life. But can there be beauty in the waiting, when God asks us to stop, wait and pause?
Tennis Pro Proves Diabetes No Barrier to Success
By: Bec Harris
Dr. Charlotte Rowley from Diabetes WA looks at how elite athletes with Type 1 diabetes – like Alexander Zverev who competed in the Australian Open – prepare for competition at the highest levels.
Tackling the Tough Teen Girl Hormone Years
By: Bec Harris
The teen years bring big changes. For girls, those changes often include hormones, periods and powerful emotions.
Read more: Tackling the Tough Teen Girl Hormone Years
While this season can feel overwhelming for teens and parents alike, experts say knowledge, reassurance and gentle support make all the difference. Naturopath Mel, from Natmed talks about teenage hormones, period pain and how families can better support young women through this important stage of life.
Talking About Periods Without Shame
First and foremost, Mel says it’s time to normalise the conversation. “Periods are a normal biological function that happens to around half the population,” she explains. “There’s no shame in talking about them, and knowledge is power.”
Today, girls are starting their periods earlier than previous generations. In some cases, periods can begin as young as nine. However, irregular cycles in the early years are usually normal.
“For example, a girl might have one period and then not have another for many months,” Mel says. “That doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong.”
Hormones fluctuate significantly during puberty. Emotional changes, mild PMS, and occasional skin breakouts are all common. What matters most is perspective.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While many symptoms are normal, there are times when parents should seek professional help. Mel encourages families to look out for red flags, including:
- Period pain that stops normal activities or requires time off school
- Bleeding that lasts longer than seven days
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve with pain relief
- No period by age 15 or 16
- A strong family history of hormonal or reproductive issues
“If period pain is relentless or debilitating every month, that’s when it’s time to speak to a healthcare professional,” Mel says.
How to Start Healthy Conversations With Teen Girls
For many parents – especially dads – talking about periods can feel awkward. However, Mel says open, gentle conversations are essential. “Choose the right time,” she advises. “If your teen is tired, stressed or in public, it’s probably not the moment.”
Instead, start with simple check-ins like “Are you okay?” or “You seem uncomfortable – can I help?” These small steps help teens feel supported and safe to speak up. Importantly, conversations don’t need to happen all at once. Sometimes it takes several gentle attempts before a teenager opens up.
Natural Ways to Ease Period Pain
Mild cramps, bloating and discomfort are common during periods. Thankfully, there are many natural ways to help reduce period pain and support hormone balance.
Magnesium
Magnesium helps relax muscles, including the uterus. Mel recommends magnesium glycinate, around 300mg per day, to ease cramping.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Found in fish oil, omega-3s reduce inflammation and can help with PMS and menstrual pain.
Calcium
Calcium supports muscle function and may reduce bloating and cramping. It’s best taken separately from magnesium for better absorption.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a role in hormone regulation, mood and muscle health, making it especially helpful during puberty.
Iron
Because periods involve blood loss, many teenage girls need extra iron – particularly those who are vegetarian or vegan. Iron glycinate is a well-tolerated option.
B-group vitamins
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) has been shown in studies to reduce period pain. Mel recommends a B-complex supplement rather than a single B vitamin.
Food Choices Matter Too
Diet plays a significant role in inflammation and hormone health. Highly processed foods and fast food can increase inflammation, which may worsen cramps and skin issues. “Do the best you can,” Mel says. “Even simple swaps help.”
For example, choosing a roast chicken and salad over deep-fried options provides protein and nutrients while still being convenient. Hydration is also important, even though getting teenagers to drink enough water can be a challenge.
Drug-Free Pain Relief Options
In addition to supplements and diet, several physical therapies can help relieve menstrual pain:
- Heat packs or hot water bottles relax the uterine muscles and reduce cramping
- TENS machines use gentle electrical pulses to block pain signals
- Castor oil packs may improve circulation and reduce muscular tension
- Ginger supplements (1,000–2,000mg daily) can reduce pain, nausea and inflammation
“Ginger helps reduce prostaglandins, which are responsible for uterine spasms,” Mel explains. Often, a combination of rest, heat, magnesium and ginger can make a noticeable difference.
Supporting Teen Mental Health
Normalising period conversations also supports mental health. When girls feel comfortable talking about their bodies, they’re less likely to suffer in silence. “Be emotionally intelligent,” Mel says. “Read the room. Keep things private and supportive.”
She also encourages parents to explore modern options like period underwear or menstrual cups, which can make periods feel more manageable for teens.
You’re Not Alone
Puberty and periods are a normal part of growing up, but no family has to navigate them alone. With the right information, gentle conversations and practical support, parents can help their daughters move through the teen season with confidence.
And if symptoms are severe or impacting daily life, seeking professional advice is always the right next step.
Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.
Feature image: Canva
Preventable Pet Health Problems
By: Bec Harris
According to veterinarian Dr Ewen Blaikie, dental disease, weight gain, and skin or ear issues are among the top reasons pets visit the clinic – yet simple lifestyle changes can make a significant difference.
How Parents Can Lead Their Family In Faith
By: Kourtney Smith
While church and youth group helps, the biggest influence on a child’s faith comes from home.
Pilates: What It Really Is and Why It Might Be What You Need
By: Bec Harris
If you’ve ever wondered “what is Pilates?” and whether it’s right for you, you’re not alone. For many people, getting fit can feel intimidating.
Read more: Pilates: What It Really Is and Why It Might Be What You Need
Movement isn’t always about chasing personal bests or pushing through intense workouts. Instead, it’s about feeling comfortable and confident in your body again – especially after injury, chronic pain, busy seasons, or long breaks from exercise.
That’s why Pilates for beginners, injury recovery, and gentle strength training so often come up in conversation. However, despite its popularity, Pilates is still widely misunderstood.
Physiotherapist Melanie Cauliffe explains what Pilates really is, where it came from, and how it can support people returning to movement – not just elite athletes or dancers. “Pilates was originally designed for people recovering from injury” says Mel.
It Didn’t Start as a Fitness Trend
Although Pilates is often associated with boutique studios and reformer classes, it didn’t begin as a trendy workout.
Joseph Pilates developed the method in the early 20th century. Originally, he used controlled, repetitive movements to help people rehabilitate from injury. He even designed spring-based resistance systems so bed-bound patients could strengthen their bodies safely.
That early equipment later evolved into what we now know as the Pilates reformer.
From there, Pilates moved into the dance community and eventually into mainstream fitness. Yet at its core, it has always focused on:
- Controlled movement
- Core strength
- Alignment and posture
- Functional, everyday movement
In other words, Pilates builds strength without encouraging you to push through pain or burn out.
Classical, Contemporary and Clinical: What’s the Difference?
One reason Pilates can feel confusing is that not all classes are the same.
Classical Pilates
This follows the original sequence of exercises created by Joseph Pilates. Instructors stick closely to the traditional order and structure.
Contemporary Pilates
This version allows instructors more flexibility. They design classes with flow, variation and modern movement science in mind.
Clinical Pilates
Clinical Pilates, however, integrates physiotherapy principles. This approach often suits people recovering from injury or managing pain.
Mel highlighted an important difference in how instructors treat the spine. Instead of flattening the lower back into the floor – a cue many of us grew up hearing – clinical Pilates encourages a neutral spine.
Why does that matter?
Because strengthening your body in its natural alignment helps translate that strength into daily life. Standing, lifting, walking and sitting all rely on neutral positioning. Therefore, training this way supports real-world movement, not just mat exercises.
Mat vs Reformer: Which Is Better?
Another common question is whether mat Pilates or reformer Pilates is better.
The honest answer? They serve different purposes.
Mat Pilates
Mat Pilates uses your body weight and gravity for resistance. As a result, your core, posture and control remain constantly engaged.
Although it looks simple, mat work can be surprisingly challenging. You can’t rely on equipment for support, which makes it highly effective for building stability and strength.
Reformer Pilates
Reformer Pilates uses a spring-loaded carriage that guides movement. The adjustable resistance supports the body while still providing challenge.
Because of this support, reformer classes often suit people:
- Returning after injury
- Managing joint limitations
- Experiencing back or hip pain
- Rebuilding strength gradually
Ultimately, it’s not about which option is “better.” Instead, you need to ask yourself: What does my body need right now?
It Isn’t About Competition
One of the most reassuring takeaways from the conversation was this simple truth:
Pilates is you against you.
You don’t need to keep up with the person next to you. You don’t need to prove anything. And you definitely shouldn’t ignore pain.
In fact, Mel offered this important reminder: if something feels wrong, don’t do it. Even self-imposed pressure can lead to injury if you override your body’s signals.
That’s why proper guidance matters, especially when returning to exercise after injury. Learning safe posture, recognising what “good effort” feels like, and progressing gradually can protect your body long-term.
Movement Doesn’t Have to Be Extreme to Be Effective
Whether you choose Pilates, walking, swimming or another low-impact exercise, remember this: fitness is not one-size-fits-all.
Strength, endurance and cardiovascular health are different aspects of overall wellbeing. However, you can build all three through consistent, sustainable movement. In fact, consistency matters more than intensity.
As Mel says “Turning up is the hardest thing – and it’s already a big win.”
If 2026 is the year you want to move again, Pilates may not be about doing more. Instead, it might be about learning how to move better – with control, confidence and kindness toward your body.
Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.
Feature image: Canva
More Than Your Job: Finding Identity Beyond Your Career
By: Telana Sladen
For many people, introducing themselves sounds something like this: “Hi, I’m Sarah. I’m a teacher,” or “I’m Mike, a builder.” Our work often becomes closely tied to who we believe we are. But is our job really meant to define our identity?