Issue 222 OUT NOW. Get all your community news and information. Bribie Islands only community gloss magazine NOW EVERY TWO WEEKS! – Articles on boating, camping, fishing, life, drama, travel destinations, sports, and what to see and do on Bribie Island. Covering charities, organizations, places, children’s activities, arts and crafts, tourist destinations, heritage parks, technology, science, music, gardening, and much more.
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Fishing Report – August 23, 2024
Well, those morning westerlies have turned up the last few days – uncanny, isn’t it? Those EKKA winds usually change fishing in the Passage and beyond and make things tricky. Certainly, the rain over the EKKA week changed the fishing – at least for a few days!
As we head into the “between-seasons” period, every day can be different. Windy days are not all bad – there’s always somewhere to hide in the Passage – or up in Ningi Creek and the others further north. You can use the wind to make a good, long cast towards the mangroves. Joel caught a mangrove jack a little way into Elimbah Creek, as well as a cod and a flathead. Catching a mangrove jack is often more good luck than good management, especially in the winter. A lot of the bigger ones have wandered out to one of the reefs, but there are still some in the Passage and can sometimes be caught when other fish are being targeted.
This winter has been one of the best for tailor in a long time, I reckon. There are continuous reports of big catches of goodsized tailor. Vince and Katrina took their boat up and anchored off White Patch, catching 4 tailor using froggies for bait. Tyson and his mates spent most of their day between Gallagher’s Point and Stockyards – bringing home 6 tailor (38cm+), a 47cm flathead and a 29cm bream, all using pillies for bait. Stopping at Ningi Creek on the way in, they took another tailor. Strangely enough, they didn’t keep any of the two dozen grinners that they also caught!
Ron had a bumper fishing session three weekends ago, when he hooked up 10 tailor, “all of’em over 50cm”, and five dusky flathead around the 60cm mark. He just sat in the same spot over the two days, north of the Ningi Creek yellow marker, “mostly in water no more than a metre deep”, again using pilchards.
Then, last weekend, he was at it again and almost in the same spot. He had to call in for ice, to deal with all his fish – eleven tailor, two flathead and one big bream – this time fishing over the sand bar extending from Turner’s Camp. The next morning, he headed out again to use the last of his block of pillies and landed a 60cm flathead on his first cast, right at the top of the tide.
There are still plenty of flathead about, but the sizes brought in have dropped a little with the funny weather, I think. The first decent day after the last spell of rain, Jason caught two bar-tail flathead about 37cm each, (mullet for bait) but it was a quiet day all up. Buzz, from Everton Park Fishing Club, was able to add two sand flathead, a winter whiting and a bream, to his tally, caught at Ningi Creek. Young Charlie’s flathead was a good one – 57cm, picked up at the ripples, using a pilly on a ganghook – he was pretty excited, he said, when he could feel the head-shakes on his line.
Matthew told me he’s been spending a bit of time waist-deep in water off Cardboard Hill at Sandstone Point, targetting flathead, mainly casting out a gang-hooked pilchard. He said his favourite time is towards dusk, if the tide is right, anytime til 9pm, when it goes quiet. Luke did some night fishing, too, in Ningi Creek on an incoming tide – and got himself a 66cm dusky.
Fish-of-the-month goes to snapper. The rest must have done them good because they’ve been coming in ever since the season opened up on August 16th. On the first day, Zac and Andrew went out to Moreton Island, sitting about half-way down on the ocean side. 60cm was the biggest of the 6 snapper they kept. Zac said everything they cast out worked – pilchards, squid, soft and hard plastics. The best fishing was in the morning, on the falling tide, clouds came over at about 11 am, and the snapper lost interest until the clouds cleared again.
Jason didn’t have to go as far for snapper, nor did Matt, but theirs weren’t as exciting in size. Jason caught two at Turner’s Camp and Matthew said he threw back about sixteen of them from the ripples! Luke went up the ocean side of Bribie, and caught snapper too, six of them – but they were no bigger than those being caught in the Passage. Still good to see the snapper so keen.
Team “Pinkaboutit” Bribie Pink Dragons at Lake Kawana for the Redcliffe Regatta
Our recent participation at Lake Kawana for the Redcliffe Regatta was a delightful experience on a perfectly sunny day. Despite the wind picking up, we successfully navigated through the program, making it a memorable day for all.
This was such a positive contrast to our last regatta in Tin Can Bay, which had the unfortunate cancellation of some races due to the wind velocity. While it is great to test ourselves in competition, the focus is still on camaraderie, exercise for well-being, and having a good time with like-minded members.
The Bribie Dragons is a community that always has its doors open for new members who are ready to embrace life to the fullest.
Whether you are a Breast Cancer survivor, supporter or someone who shares the ethos, come and have a paddle.
You have nothing to lose and all to gain; it will change your life. Contact: President 0499 990 352
Winelander – August 23, 2024
There have been several movements in the Australian wine industry recently, with Australian Wine Holdco Ltd, known as Accolade Wines, purchasing Jacobs Creek, St. Hugo, Stoneleigh, Brancott Estate, plus a number of Spanish wines from Pernod Ricard, who have been the custodians of these products, which in the case of Jacobs Creek for many years. Accolade’s portfolio prior to the purchase included such iconic brands as Hardy’s, Houghton, Grant Burge, Leasingham, Goundry, Petaluma, Knappstein, St. Hallett, Arras, Stonier and several New Zealand wineries.
It has also been reported that Treasury Wine Estates, owners of the Penfold brand, is considering making the Penfolds Brands a standalone range and maybe selling off some of the more commercial products within the portfolio to improve the bottom line. There was a feature in the Liquor Trade magazine recently that with the dropping of the tariffs by China, there is an opportunity for the Treasury to raise the prices of the Penfold’s range, thus establishing them as a luxury brand.
Although the industry welcomes the dropping of the tariffs, as I reported some months ago, in the three years the impost has been in place, many things have changed in the Chinese market; these include inflation hurting the hip pocket, the inclusion of more international brands from countries such as South Africa, Chile and Argentina, which replaced the Australian brands, and also a change in drinking habits with many drinkers turning to white varieties instead of red. However, in the months since the tariffs were removed, China will once again become our biggest trading partner for wine.
As it will take some time to clear the backlog of wine carried by the wineries since the tariffs were introduced, there should be plenty of deals around for the local market to take advantage of. This means keep an eye on Liquorland, BWS, Dan Murphy’s, and First Choice, especially if you enjoy red wines. I see many older vintages being available at very good prices for some time yet.
Many of our readers seemed to have enjoyed the recent articles about food and wines, which we will endeavour to expand on in the future; obviously, at the end of the day, these are just suggestions and will vary depending on the individual’s palate, sauces, etc. However, if your preference is red wine with everything, such as my good friend Russel (with one L), or white wine with red meat, then carry on. Still, sometimes, some experimentation can expand one’s knowledge and enjoyment.
Tyson Stelzer is a multi-award-winning wine writer, wine judge, and television host who specialises in Champagne, whom I had the pleasure of meeting several years ago when representing Calabria Wines, who had just taken on the agency of Deutz Champagne. He recently stated that, in his opinion, Tasmania is now producing the best sparkling wines in the world after Champagne, which is remarkable considering the industry is little more than thirty years old when in the 1980s winemakers from The Champagne House of Louis Roederer visited Tasmania and pronounced the area perfect for growing the grapes of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier which are the three wine varieties used in Champagne making.
Tasmania also has the advantage of being able to produce outstanding wines at a fraction of the price of Champagne, where grapes can cost as much as 8000 Euros (A$13000) per tonne compared to $3000 per tonne in Tasmania; however, Champagne producers have the advantage of 300 years of experience in making outstanding sparkling wine. Tasmania is not trying to produce a Champagne look because whilst the growing conditions are similar, being close to the ocean, cooler and more humid, the soil is totally different, with Champagne being more chalky, which produces a different taste. They are trying to produce a top quality wine in a unique Tasmanian style.
I have always been a fan of Champagne enjoying the yeasty qualities the wines impart in fact we had a bottle of Lanson Black Label from Dan Murphy’s only the other day and it was beautiful. Recently Ed Carr Chief Winemaker at The House of Arras in Tasmania, who has been making the wines there since 1995, has just been voted global Sparkling Winemaker of the year at The International Wine Challenge.
Even the French Champagne House of Mumm has now gotten in on the act by releasing Mumm Brut Prestige Tasmania, which retails at around $40. This seems to be the standard price for a good-quality Tasmanian Sparkling wine, but this price can increase dramatically for special releases and the size of the vineyard.
The main area for high-quality wines is the Pipers River district in North East Tasmania, where the grapes take longer to ripen because of the cooler, humid climate. However, while many of the smaller vineyards use only grapes from their own properties, House of Arras takes fruit from all the recognised sub-regions of the Island, ensuring a unique and consistent style, which is important when producing larger volumes.
Other brands from the region include Jansz (owned by Yalumba), 42 degrees South, Delamere, Heemskerk, Devils Corner, Joseph Chromy and Stefano Lubiana; for a special occasion such as The Melbourne Cup, try a great wine from Tasmania.
Talking of Mumm Champagne, again a favourite of mine, they have just released their first ever still wine from their vineyards in Central Otago, a Pinot Noir 2021 vintage. This will form part of their Mumm Terroir collection. It is made from hand-harvested grapes sourced from the Lowburn subregion and was bottled after spending 16 months in French oak. Cheers, Philip Arlidge [email protected]
Are you curious about Peppermint Oil’s Powers?
Peppermint has been lending its minty-fresh flavour to products like candy canes, ice cream and tea for thousands of years, but it’s staying power is about much more than taste. It’s got some medicinal value as well. The peppermint plant is a cross between spearmint and water mint, and its active ingredients are menthol, methyl acetate and menthone. While the peppermint leaves have their functions, the extracted peppermint oil boasts its own litany of capabilities.
Here’s the caveat, though. Most of peppermint oil’s rumoured abilities are purely anecdotal at this point. The truth is that the plant has been studied very little, although it does appear to be totally safe when used appropriately. For example, when taking peppermint oil by mouth or applying it to the skin, be sure to use it as directed, as too much can be irritating. Like most other foodstuffs or herbs, it’s also possible to have an allergic reaction to peppermint.
Eases Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) – IBS is an often frustrating, painful chronic problem, and it’s also one of the few ailments that peppermint oil has been studied for extensively. A meta-analysis published in the BMJ showed peppermint oil was more effective than placebos at relieving IBS symptoms because it helps the colon relax and reduces painful spasms. So, if IBS is something you struggle with, perhaps a capsule or two a day (or whatever the bottle suggests) can bring some much-needed relief. Incidentally, peppermint oil is also helpful in easing other colon-related problems, such as Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis and diarrhea.
Fights Cancer – In the battle against cancer, we need all the help we can get. A 2009 study discovered that menthol causes cell death in prostate cancer. However, far from being declared a cancer cure-all, essential oils like peppermint oil remain interesting for researchers looking for plantbased solutions.
Keeps Head Lice Away – If reading about head lice causes you to feel itchy, chances are you’d like to do whatever you can to avoid the scourge. Some lice experts recommend preventing an infestation by masking the human scent, which lice love, with other strong aromas, like that of peppermint oil. Unfortunately, there’s no research to back that up, as existing studies only involve other types of oil, such as eucalyptus. However, it seems that it should work, following the logic of other strong scents warding off lice. At the very least, you’ll smell nice and minty.
Repels Pests – Peppermint leaves are a known natural ant repellent (some people even put peppermint plants in the ground in problematic spots). However, many gardeners turn to a diluted peppermint oil spray to keep these and other pests at antenna’s length. Added bonus: Mice hate the scent, too!
Freshens Breath – There’s a reason most toothpastes have a minty taste, apart from it being a pleasant sensation. Peppermint’s antibacterial properties kill the germs that cause dental plaque, which may improve breath.
Relieves Headaches – A few drops of peppermint oil combined with a carrier oil for dilution purposes (like coconut oil) is often all it takes to relieve that bothersome headache. A 1996 German study showed that using an ethanol solution with 10 per cent peppermint oil was just as effective as 1,000 mg of acetaminophen. So, if you wish to avoid standard pain relievers the next time your head starts pounding, apply a few drops of peppermint oil to the temples, forehead and back of the neck. Be sure not to use too much, as peppermint essential oils are extremely concentrated and can cause skin irritation.
Stops Itching – A couple of small studies indicate that peppermint oil can relieve itching. In one study, pregnant women with itch-related woes were given 0.5 per cent peppermint oil mixed with sesame oil. They achieved better relief than their counterparts’ using placebos. This is good news, as many women strive to avoid medications or chemical-containing options during gestation.
Helps With Good Hair Days – If you have dandruff or precariously thinning hair, a couple of drops of peppermint oil added to shampoo can help turn things around. Again, hard evidence is elusive, but a 2014 animal study saw mice enjoy fluffier coats following a 3 per cent peppermint oil application (it even worked better than an application of hair growth medication minoxidil in the study). Menthol (the active ingredient in peppermint oil) is a major ingredient in many dandruff shampoos already.
Bribie Community Nursery backs a winner!
Ryan Waters is 16 years old and a full-time student currently completing grade 12. He became involved with Athletics seven years ago with Bribie Little Athletics while also doing Triathlons.
His dedication to Athletics since 2017 is truly inspiring. He recently completed his under-17 year and aged out of Bribie District Little Athletics Club. His love for the sport led him to join the committee for the next season as a general committee member. Two years ago, he joined Queensland Athletics and has been an active part of a group of athletes, always eager to compete in as many competitions as possible.
Ryan’s most recent achievements are not just his own but a source of great pride for our entire community. His victories at the Queensland Schools Competition and the Queensland All Schools, where he secured 1st and 2nd place respectively, were celebrated by all. His success at the Australian All Schools competition in Perth, where he finished 3rd and 4th, further solidified our pride in him.
Athletics Championships held in Adelaide in April 2024. He competed in the under-20 and under-18 400 m events. He qualified for the nationals by making the qualifying times throughout the season and came first in the 400m under-18’s race at the Queensland State Championships in March. While Ryan was a little disappointed with his overall result, he is working again with his Coach to set up a new plan for next season. He is determined to improve his performance and has set his sights on the upcoming national and international competitions.
On the brighter side, the boys’ 4x400m relay was awarded the 3rd Medal. Well done to all; it was such a wonderful experience. Bribie Community Nursery were pleased to assist Ryan to be able to compete in Adelaide. We eagerly anticipate hearing of his future achievements and are proud to support him on his journey. Ryan’s success is a testament to the unwavering support and encouragement he has received from the entire community, and we are all part of his journey.
Bribie Pink Dragons
It was a lovely event with great weather, creative titbits, and a specially crafted individual birthday cake. In 2004, Joyce was diagnosed with breast cancer. So began the long journey, through lumpectomy surgery and radiation, to wellness.
Several years later, she spotted a dragonboat “full of pinkies” through her binoculars and remarked to her husband, “That looks like fun; I would like to do that!”
She recounts seeing an article in a local paper asking Breast Cancer survivors to come and paddle. The phone call was made, and two days later, Joyce had her first training in the boat and has been paddling ever since!
She recently returned with our team after competing in the Cooloola Coast Regatta.
Joyce embraces life with a beaming smile and an unparalleled zest for life. Whether we are doing an International Women’s Day walk or a fundraiser for cancer, she is always an energetic contender.
As a previous gymnast in her youth, playing ground sports, tennis and squash, she has an ongoing determination to keep fit and paddle on!
Her enthusiasm is infectious. In 2023, as the oldest competitor, Joyce attended the IBCPC International Regatta in NZ, where she engaged with and earned the admiration of many international teams. She hopes to compete in 2026 at the IBCPC event in Aux Les Bains, Lake Bourget, France.
After cutting her cake, in an emotional few words, Joyce thanked everyone for the camaraderie, the friendship, the love and the sisterhood of support in a club where she was “ever, ever, ever so proud to be a member”.
We welcome all, not just Breast Cancer survivors, their supporters and those with a like-minded ethos, to come and join us in paddling in the beautiful Pumicestone Passage.
Contact 0493096377
Fishing Report – August 9, 2024
This time of the year, winter bream (yellowfin variety) shows up in big numbers, migrating from the coastline to breed in the protected bays, rivers, and Passageways. They will be in good condition as they have put on a lot of weight and are feeding on everything as they are about to spawn. Bream doesn’t tend to stop eating like some fish do pre-spawn. You will find them instinctively hungrier and will be easier to catch. Keeping this in mind, it is a good time to limit your bream catch as they are one of Australia’s most popular fish that are caught. The current bag limit for this species in Queensland is 30 (but be aware the 30 includes pikey bream, yellowfin bream and tarwhine in possession) per person with a minimum length of 25cm. Bream can breed in almost fresh water and have been found in freshwater ponds and creeks with almost no saltwater influence. Anglers can prepare for bigger-thanaverage fish, with most of my extra-large specimens caught this time of the year. Bream in the mid-40s is not uncommon, with the odd one hitting the 50cm mark, but they can grow to a maximum size of approximately 65cm.
I find the gut, cubes or fillets of mullet one of the best fish baits, followed closely by my favourite baby blue pilchards regularly sold at Bribie Bait, Tackle and Bikes near the jetty. Whole fish on a Snell rig with size 1 or 1/0 hooks works a treat with 10 to 15kg trace, as you will be likely to pick up a stray flathead, and hence you will need a bit stronger leader.
Some other baits include yabbies, prawns, chicken hearts, and squid. Don’t forget the humble soft bread, which can be dynamite on bream.
For the more finesse anglers, 4 to 6-pound main line, braid, or nylon is best for the test of skill and technique. There are two types of nylon – monofilament and fluorocarbon. I prefer 4lb fluorocarbon as my main line and a 4 to 6lb Fluro leader. The difference between the two is that fluorocarbon has very little stretch, is heavier than mono, and has more abrasion resistance than mono. Because of this characteristic, I find it helps remove/turn bream out of oyster racks, pontoons, or any snaggy ground. I often will fish unweighted bait to trick the XO-size bream, but from time to time, I fish with the smallest sinker possible to get your bait down.
Mono is lighter and has more stretch, which allows it to act as a long shock absorber, which helps in playing a fish back to you. This will also complement a stiffer rod. Many fish are lost because of sticky reel drags. Indeed, some are so tight that they don’t allow the fish to pull out the line at all, resulting in the line often breaking at the knot. By setting your drag light, you will enjoy when the fish runs, and if there are no snags around, you can take your time getting it in and enjoy the experience.
Tailor season has officially started for Bribie, with lots of small tailor invading the Passage. The cold westerlies typically start the migration north as they head to Fraser Island. With some persistence, you may need to catch 30 tailor to bring home half a dozen of the legal size. See the photo -as they are so much fun to catch, no one was complaining. Tailor need to be a minimum of 35cm in QLD and are notorious for biting off hooks. If you lose a couple of hooks, use a thicker trace, wire trace or ganged hooks to limit the bite-offs. When bait fishing for tailor, the easiest rig would be a 15kg nylon trace about 1 meter long with a set of gangs baited with a pilchard. Tailor typically won’t typically be over 40cm this month, so having gang hooks 3/0 or smaller will be the better choice. Even 1/0s will produce a bycatch of flathead and big bream. Strip baits of mullet and bonito are also top baits on gangs for tailor. They are fast-swimming fish and need to be bled when caught. As tailor have soft flesh, it is important to have an ice slurry handy to aid in bleeding them out and firming the fish for the table. They are excellent table fish if you look after them.
There is a closed season on snapper and pearl perch for a month from midnight on the 15th of July to Midnight on the 15th of August. I have noticed lots of undersized snapper lately, which is a great sign that the closure is aiding in producing a sustainable fishery. Snapper are an iconic fish with lots of anglers dreaming of their first nobby. Some anglers like Lachlan are like magnets to big snappers, with this beauty caught on his first cast with a soft plastic. The fish went 82cm and was safely released after a couple of photos. Great fish like this are caught locally around Bribie every year. You have to be out there wetting a line.
Treating Cracked Skin on the Foot
Cracked heels can range from an unattractive nuisance to an extremely painful condition. Cracks or fissures can become so deep that standing, walking or applying any pressure becomes painful, and serious cracks may also begin to bleed.
Cracked heels may start with dry skin or result from other conditions, including psoriasis, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and atopic dermatitis. Corns and calluses can also cause cracked heels, particularly if a person is overweight, stands for a long time on hard floors, or wears open-back shoes or sandals.
If you care for your heels properly, you will most likely prevent cracked ones. Proper care is simple — use a moisturising cream regularly. If cracked heels are already a problem, use the moisturiser two to three times a day. Before using moisturiser, rub callused areas with a pumice stone to reduce their thickness. Look for foot moisturisers containing urea, salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids or saccharide isomerate because these water-retaining agents help keep the foot.
See a podiatrist if your home treatment of cracked heels doesn’t work after a week. Treatments include debridement, which involves cutting away the thick skin and strapping, a method used to hold cracks together as they heal. Consider using prescription creams and special insoles or other products to redistribute the weight on the heel and provide better support.
Good moisturising doesn’t just help prevent or cure cracked heels; it can also help keep away corns and calluses.
Be Kind to Cracked Heels
Never use a razor blade or scissors to remove hardened skin from your feet. If you remove too much skin, you run the risk of infection. This advice also applies if you’re getting a pedicure in a salon.
Treating Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are quite similar. Both are tough, thick layers of skin formed by friction and pressure. Corns are usually smaller than calluses and have a hard centre known as the kernel. They can develop in several areas on the foot but are more often found in areas that are not weight-bearing, such as the tops and sides of toes. Calluses typically develop on the soles of your feet and don’t usually become painful unless you develop cracked heels.
As with several foot ailments, prevention is your best line of defence. Shoes that don’t fit—both too tight and too loose— can cause corns and calluses to develop. High-heeled shoes are another common culprit, as are narrow, pointy shoes. Wearing shoes without socks or sandals that rub against your foot might also lead to corns and calluses.
Corns or calluses that don’t cause too much discomfort and aren’t inflamed can usually be treated at home. Treatment is simple. Use over-the-counter pads to provide a barrier between your foot and the cause of the friction on your foot. Use caution with liquid corn removals or pads with salicylic acid, which can irritate.
You can also soak your feet in warm, soapy water to soften the hardened skin. While soaking or right after, use a pumice stone to remove some toughened skin. If you use a pumice stone, only remove a little skin at a time. Then, use moisturiser to help keep the skin pliable.
See your doctor if your efforts to treat the problem at home are ineffective. A podiatrist can use a scalpel to remove some of the problem skin. He or she may also apply a patch with 40 per cent salicylic acid, prescribe an antibiotic ointment, or suggest you use custommade shoe inserts.
The Bribie Islander Gloss Magazine August 9, 2024 Issue 221
Issue 221 OUT NOW. Get all your community news and information. Bribie Islands only community gloss magazine NOW EVERY TWO WEEKS! – Articles on boating, camping, fishing, life, drama, travel destinations, sports, and what to see and do on Bribie Island. Covering charities, organizations, places, children’s activities, arts and crafts, tourist destinations, heritage parks, technology, science, music, gardening, and much more.
How to Buy the Right Shoes
Believe it or not, one person can have two feet slightly different in size and shape. And even if yours seem identical, they don’t necessarily remain a constant size. Your feet can actually be different sizes at different times of the day. There are also more lasting changes: Most feet gradually widen with age, and sometimes women’s feet “grow” (because of muscle relaxation during pregnancy) after the birth of a child.
When shopping for shoes, it’s important to consider the time of day. The late afternoon or evening is ideal, as that’s when your feet are the biggest (they swell during the day). A knowledgeable salesperson can be a valuable asset in this process, guiding you in measuring both feet while you’re standing up and carefully considering the fit and walking comfort of each pair of shoes you try.
If you have wide feet, there’s no need to worry. Always inquire about the availability of wide-width options, even if the salesperson has measured your feet. Comfortable shoes have gained popularity and style, and shoe manufacturers are recognizing that not everyone has a medium-width foot. This diversity of options should instil hope and confidence in your quest for the perfect pair of shoes. There are two other contributors to your shoe “size” as well: The shape of your foot (how the shoe’s “upper” conforms to your foot) and the heel height that is best for you. It’s important to remember that high heels shift body weight onto the front of your feet, which may not be suitable for everyone. If you have excessively pronated (“flat”) feet, Achilles tendinitis, short calf muscles, or knee problems, however, shoes with a moderate heel may be more comfortable for you, because they lessen the pull on already-overstretched tendons and muscles. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions about your shoe purchases.
What To Avoid
• Stiletto heels, or any other heel higher than three inches, redistributes your body weight so that 90 per cent of it is on the front of your feet. This extraordinary pressure can create calluses on the foot ball and increase the pain of bunions, hammertoes, and corns. It also strains the muscles and tendons in the arch of the foot. And because these heels tend to have narrow points on the ground, they make maintaining your balance quite challenging and add to the danger of falling, turning, and spraining your ankle.
• Pointy-toe shoes squeeze the toes together, causing uncomfortable calluses and corns. Pointy shoes can also pressure ingrown toenails and bunions and increase the likelihood of hammertoes.
• Flats can be a problem for people with arch and Achilles tendon problems and anyone who wears them exclusively. Over time, your foot gets used to being pronated (flattened), and you may develop arch pain and tendinitis. Flats can be the staple of your shoe wardrobe but alternate them with shoes with moderate heels.
• Mules generally have a high heel, so you’re likely to have all the same problems as those mentioned above when too much pressure is placed on the front of the foot. But what distinguishes this style is the lack of heel support, increasing your chances of injury if your foot turns on the heel or slips out of the shoe.
• Platform shoes, popular in the 1970s, unfortunately come back in style periodically. Like high heels, they are so unstable that you can’t help but periodically turn your ankle, possibly causing muscle strain, a sprain, or even a fracture.
• Old shoes with worn-down heels or traction, flattened insoles, stretched-out uppers, or unravelling stitching can cause you to slip, strain your foot muscles, and lead to ankle sprains.
Key Factors
• The toe box, or area around your toes, should be roomy enough for your toes to rest comfortably. Too much room can allow feet to slide inside shoes, causing calluses and irritation. The more common problem is that the toe box is too tight. The toe box is probably your biggest shoe problem if you have wide feet. When standing, there should also be room in front of the toes, at least 3/8″ to 1/2″ between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. And there should be room above your toes to prevent the shoe from rubbing against them, causing corns. To test the above criteria, ensure you can wiggle your toes inside the toe box when standing.
• A shoe’s “upper”—the material on top of it—should conform to the shape of your foot. It should provide support but also “give” when your foot moves. Look for an upper made of a material that is not irritating or porous, allowing air into the shoe. Leather is more likely than vinyl to have these characteristics.
• The shoe should provide ample cushioning to absorb shock on foot bones and muscles each time you take a step. It would be best if you had such cushioning in three key areas: the arch, the front, where the ball of the footrests, and the heel, which normally supports 25 per cent of your body weight. If the insole material is also absorbent, it will help relieve heat inside shoes and prevent rashes and the spread of infection.
• Soles should provide adequate traction to prevent slipping on any surfaces where you expect to be wearing the shoes.
• Heels should ideally provide slight elevation (between 3/4″ and 1″) for the foot, whether there’s an actual heel or a sole thicker toward the back of the shoe. The counter, the shoe part that curves around the back of your heel- should be stiff enough to prevent ankle strains and sprains. The back of your foot should fit snugly into the heel of the shoe, not slide around inside it.
OVERCOMING ABUSE AND RISING WITH RESILIENCE
Life has a way of throwing curveballs, some of which hit harder than others. For those who have endured experiences of abuse, whether sexual, physical, or verbal, the healing journey can feel like an endless, uphill battle. But remember that you are not defined by what happened to you.
Acknowledge and Accept
The first step towards healing is acknowledging the abuse and accepting that it was not your fault. Many survivors grapple with self-blame, thinking they could have done something differently to prevent the abuse. This mindset only perpetuates the pain. Understand that the responsibility lies solely with the abuser. By accepting this truth, you begin to dismantle the power the abuse holds over you.
Embrace Your Emotions
Allow yourself to feel the emotions associated with your experience—anger, sadness, fear, and even relief. Bottling up these emotions only delays the healing process. Journaling can be an incredibly therapeutic way to express your feelings. Write as if no one will ever read it, and let your heart pour out onto the page. This act of releasing your emotions can bring a profound sense of clarity.
Seek Support
You don’t have to walk this path alone. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or counsellor. There’s immense strength in vulnerability and asking for help. Support groups can also offer a safe space to share your experiences with others who understand what you are going through. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Transform Pain into Power
Your experiences have given you unique insights and strengths. Reflect on what you have learnt. These lessons are the gifts hidden within your pain. Embrace them, and let them guide you towards a future where you thrive, not just survive.
Set Healthy Boundaries
As you heal, it is crucial to establish and maintain healthy boundaries. This might mean distancing yourself from toxic relationships or situations that trigger negative emotions. Surround yourself with people who uplift and support you, and remember that your well-being is a priority
Practice Self-Compassion
There will be good days and bad days, and that is okay. Treat yourself with the kindness and compassion you would offer a dear friend. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and show kindness and compassion for yourself the days you struggle.
Visualise a Bright Future
Take time to visualise the future you desire. Imagine yourself free from the shadows of your past, living a life filled with joy, purpose, and love. By focusing on positive outcomes, you align with the reality you wish to create. Need support in moving on from abuse or need someone to help you transition into a brighter future? Reach out and give me a call at 0405361882.
The Medical Reasons Behind Itchy Noses
While spiritual beliefs and superstitions offer intriguing insights into the meanings behind itchy noses, it is essential to consider the medical reasons behind this common phenomenon. Here are some potential causes for itchy noses:
ALLERGIES
Allergies, such as those triggered by pollen, pet dander, or certain food items, can lead to inflammation and itching in the nose. The immune system reacts to these allergens, causing discomfort and irritation. If you suspect allergies cause your itchy nose, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment options.
DRYNESS
Dryness in the nasal passages can result from various factors, including environmental conditions, frequent nose blowing, or inadequate hydration. When the delicate skin inside the nose lacks moisture, it can become itchy and uncomfortable. Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air or applying a saline nasal spray may help alleviate dryness-related itching.
VIRAL INFECTIONS
Common colds and viral infections can often cause itching sensations in the nose. The body’s immune response to these infections can lead to nasal congestion, sneezing, and itchiness. Resting, staying hydrated, and practising good hygiene can aid in recovery and alleviate symptoms.
SINUSITIS
Sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses, can cause nasal congestion, pain, and itching. It often occurs due to bacterial or viral infections, allergies, or structural issues within the nasal passages. Seeking medical advice and treatment may be necessary to address the underlying cause of sinusitis and relieve the associated itchiness.
MIGRAINES
In some cases, migraines can manifest as an itchy sensation in or around the nose. Various symptoms, including nasal itching often accompany migraine attacks. Managing migraines through lifestyle changes, stress reduction techniques and medication can help minimise the frequency and intensity of these episodes.
HOME REMEDIES FOR ITCHY NOSES
If you experience occasional or mild itching in your nose, you can try several home remedies to alleviate the discomfort. It is important to note that these remedies may not be suitable for everyone, and consulting a healthcare professional is advisable for persistent or severe symptoms. Here are some potential home remedies to consider:
SALINE NASAL RINSE
A saline nasal rinse can help moisturise and soothe the nasal passages, reducing itchiness. A saline solution made from a mixture of warm water and salt can flush out irritants and provide relief. Commercially available nasal saline sprays or neti pots can also be used.
HUMIDIFIER
Using a humidifier in your living space can increase moisture levels in the air, preventing dryness in the nasal passages. This can be particularly helpful during dry seasons or in environments with low humidity. Ensure proper cleaning and maintenance of the humidifier to prevent the growth of mould or bacteria.
ALLERGY MEDICATION
If allergies are causing your itchy nose, over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms. These medications reduce inflammation and block histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting new medications to ensure appropriate usage and potential interactions with other medications.
AVOIDING IRRITANTS
Identifying and avoiding potential irritants that trigger nasal itching can significantly reduce symptoms. These irritants may include dust, pet dander, certain foods, or environmental pollutants. Taking steps to minimise exposure to these triggers, such as using air purifiers, keeping a clean living environment, and wearing protective masks when necessary, can make a noticeable difference.