We’re working longer, not getting enough sleep, and according to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics*, 45 per cent of Australian women regularly feel rushed or pressed for time.

With school holidays fast approaching and bringing with them the daily juggle of playdates, drop-offs and work schedules, a range of local wellbeing specialists have banded together to create Haven, a mindfulness sanctuary for busy women to be held at Noosa Civic shopping centre between 25 March and 13 April.

Wellbeing coach and health and fitness professional Kelly Carthy is one of many experts sharing her knowledge with those stopping in at the Haven, offering her wellbeing tips for staying fit and healthy while balancing a busy lifestyle.

“We live in world where the pace of life is unprecedented and everyone can benefit massively from having an opportunity to unwind and recharge as part of their busy schedules,” said Ms Carthy.
“The value of taking time out to rejuvenate cannot be underestimated, and sessions such as those being offered at the Haven not only deliver much-needed relaxation time, but also equip women with a range of skills they can be implemented in daily life.”

Noosa Civic Centre Manager Brian Turner said he was delighted to offer an opportunity for the community to attend a diverse range of activities all aimed at increasing mindfulness and taking time out.
”Unless you’re booked into a spa or attending regular classes there aren’t many occasions when we can stop, reflect and take time out to focus on our own wellbeing so that’s what we’re offering,” said Mr Turner.

“For those seeking some creative expression, the Haven will host a watercolour lettering workshop led by graphic artist Cass Deller who specialises in watercolour illustrations.”

“Shoppers will also have the opportunity to learn the basics of macramé and making a bohemian-style mini wall hanging with fibre artist, Jodie Townsend, as well as designing their own flower crown under the guidance of stylist and artistic florist Dezley Hughes.”

“The activities aren’t limited to adults either – Haven will also deliver dedicated yoga and meditation classes for kids and a craft area will be set up for them to join in the fun over the school holiday period.”

Teacher and teen mentor Amanda Rootsey said she looked forward to hosting a number of workshops aimed at girls aged between nine and 12, which had been designed to build confidence and enhance wellbeing at an age when girls in particular often feel vulnerable and unsure of themselves.

“These sessions aim to help girls develop their own inner strength and positive self-esteem. They provide insight into building beautiful friendships and even allow girls to try their hand at making natural skincare masks out of fruit, which is a little messy and a lot of fun!”

Mr Turner said the Haven would also be focused on supporting a local not-for-profit organisation.
“While many of the sessions are being delivered to shoppers free of charge, some sessions request a small five dollar donation towards the Waves of Wellness Foundation, a mental health surf therapy charity committed to changing lives by delivering innovative programs for people experiencing mental health challenges,” Mr Turner said.

Waves of Wellness (WOW) offers surf therapy, education and corporate programs to encourage social inclusion, connection to nature and engagement in meaningful activities.

“At Noosa Civic we support WOW’s vision of a world where invisible mental health issues are treated like any other physical injury; where there’s no social stigma, and people struggling don’t have to go it alone,” said Mr Turner.

Other sessions included in the Haven program are style workshops by Kathryn Edmonds to help keep you on trend in regard to fashion and making clothing choices to match body shape; natural beauty workshops by Adele McConnell; introduction to mindfulness by Tammy Williams, complimentary yoga with Sarah from Noosa Flow and a workshop on how to minimise food waste in the home by OzHarvest Sunshine Coast.

The Haven mindfulness sanctuary will be based at Noosa Civic shopping centre between 25 March and 13 April. To find out more or view the full calendar of activity, please visit www.noosacivicshopping.com.au, search for the centre on Facebook, or contact centre management on 5440 7900.

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*Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, General Social Survey: Summary Results, Australia, 2014, http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/4159.0.

Media contact — Maya Gurry, Fresh PR & Marketing P: 0410 109 102 E: maya@freshprm.com.au