Ladies Day On Country Session
Our recent Ladies Day On Country was a fantastic day filled with connection and fun. The ladies enjoyed painting, fishing, flying kites, sharing stories, and a delicious BBQ lunch. It was a beautiful day spent on Country, and we’re already looking forward to the next one!
What Is Dry Needling?
By Physiotherapist, Matthew Hallandal
If you’ve ever experienced chronic muscle pain or tightness, you may have probably heard of dry needling. Dry needling is a technique that can help relieve pain and improve muscle function. Though it may look similar to acupuncture, dry needling is based on modern Western medicine principles and focuses on treating tight bands of muscle that can cause pain and dysfunction (trigger points).
How Does Dry Needling Work?
A trained practitioner inserts thin, sterile needles directly into these trigger points. The goal is to reduce the sensation of muscle tension, improve blood flow, and restore normal function. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on “balancing energy flow,” dry needling targets neuromuscular conditions and is backed by research on pain science and musculoskeletal function.
Benefits of Dry Needling
Dry needling is commonly used to treat:
✔ Muscle pain and tightness.
✔ Sports injuries such as strains and overuse injuries.
✔ Joint pain – Reduces pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis.
✔ Headaches and migraines – Reduces tension-related headaches.
✔ Improved mobility.
Is Dry Needling Right for You?
Dry needling is generally safe when performed by a physiotherapist or remedial massage therapist who have undertaken relevant training. Some people may experience temporary soreness after treatment, but this usually resolves within a day or two.
Our physiotherapists here at active performance will be able to undertake a thorough history and physical examination to determine whether it may be a suitable treatment option for you.
Cholesterol: What You Need to Know
By Maddy Bedding, Accredited Practicing Dietitian
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance essential for making hormones, vitamin D, and digestive enzymes. However, too much of the wrong kind can increase your risk of heart disease.
There are two main types:
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): Often called “bad” cholesterol, high levels can lead to plaque build-up in arteries.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): Known as “good” cholesterol, it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
Diet Tips to Support Healthy Cholesterol:
Choose healthy fats: Swap saturated fats (found in fatty meats, butter, and processed foods) for unsaturated fats from avocado, olive oil, nuts, seeds, and oily
fish.
Add more fibre: Soluble fibre, found in oats, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, helps lower LDL cholesterol by reducing its absorption in the gut.
Limit processed foods: Trans fats and excess added sugars can negatively impact cholesterol levels and overall heart health.
Enjoy plant sterols: These naturally occurring compounds, found in fortified foods like certain margarines, breakfast cereals, milks or supplement form, can help lower LDL cholesterol.
Focus on whole foods: A Mediterranean-style eating pattern—rich in vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and lean proteins—is proven to support heart
health.
Lifestyle also matters. Regular physical activity, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight can all help improve your cholesterol profile.
Everyone’s needs are different. If you’re concerned about your cholesterol, a dietitian can provide personalised guidance to help you make sustainable changes that support long-term heart health.
Island Adventures on Groote
Tayla recently enjoyed some quality time with Bryston during her visit to Groote. He took her on a scenic hike and showed her around the island for a bit of exploring 🌴☀ — a perfect way to soak up the beauty of the land and connect with nature.
