healthyliving Issue 11 | Summer 2011-12
How long? what is a prognosis anyway?
Celebration food on the go
Meditation forever, for everything
The Gawler Foundation magazine ŠKon Art
An integrated approach to health
healing and wellbeing
Conference Highlights Thank you to everyone who attended our Profound Healing – Sustainable Wellbeing Annual Conference in November. The presentations were inspiring and the panel discussion 'Illness versus wellness - have we got the model right?' was informative and practical.
L to R: Sue Brownlee, Helen Brown, Ian Gawler, Sabina Rabold, John Bettens
L to R: Scott Stephens and Karin Knoester
L to R: Siegfried Gutbrod and Dr Craig Hassed
'How we think and how we live has an effect through our entire body, right down to our cells.' Dr Craig Hassed L to R: Dr Vicki Kotsirilos and Prof Avni Sali
L to R: Dr Ruth Gawler, Dr Vicki Kotsirilos and Helen Brown
L to R: Panellists – Prof George Jelinek, Dr Vicki Kotsirilos, Prof Avni Sali, Siegfried Gutbrod
Scott Stephens tells his story DVD
Scott presented at our conference this year and is a past program participant and cancer survivor who has truly made a difference to his cancer and life through embracing The Gawler Foundation philosophy. Scott's story is an inspiration and is available for $29.95 plus postage from our Resource Centre at www.gawler.org/shop A production of Your MemoirsTM.
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- The Gawler Foundation magazine
From the CEO I love this time of year. The days are progressively longer and the warm weather returns us to a life outdoors where we can enjoy the healing power of the sun, the abundant growth in our gardens and the long summer evenings. It is also a time when we feel the energy of a closing year, and although this time can be a little crazy in many ways – work to finish, family and friends to see – there is a sense of completion available to us all that allows us to reflect back on the year and all we have achieved. We have enjoyed another inspiring and informative Annual Conference and I would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all those who helped make this event happen. Bronwyn took on organising the conference this year for the first time, and I think you will agree that it was a wonderful event. I am always amazed at what I learn from the speakers and trust that your experience at the conference exceeded your expectations. The conference provides the Foundation’s year with a sense of rhythm and connection. The other event that marks this time of the year for us is, of course, the Christmas Appeal. Raenor Priest has shared her story with us this year and something she said about community really rang true for me: ‘We need to look after ourselves in our own little part of the world. We need to do the best we can for our families and for the people around us.’ Every person who connects with us at the Foundation, whether as a participant, donor, carer or otherwise, becomes part of our community and we want to continue to expand on our amazing work and build healthy futures for all who seek us out. Please donate and help us if you can. Blessings for the season to all of you and may the year ahead provide us all with a sense of community and wellbeing that brings true purpose to our lives. Thank you for all your support in 2011. Be well.
The Gawler Foundation Inc. is a not-for-profit organisation committed to an integrated approach to health, healing and wellbeing that includes the body, emotions, mind and spirit. Our mission is to work within an integrative medical framework to provide access to the best possible instruction and support for the implementation of self-help techniques for people experiencing cancer, Multiple Sclerosis or other serious illness.
Directors of the Board Shelley Oldham, President Janne Palthe, Vice President Ray Cummings, Treasurer Professor Avni Sali Irene Goonan Karin Knoester, CEO and Secretary The Gawler Foundation Yarra Valley Living Centre Hawthorn Centre 55 Rayner Court 565 Burwood Rd Yarra Junction 3797 Hawthorn 3122 PO Box 77 Yarra Junction VIC 3797 Phone 03 5967 1730 Fax 03 5967 1715 Email info@gawler.org Web www.gawler.org
Editorial Writer, Editor and Designer: Lindy Schneider media@gawler.org
Editorial Committee: Karin Knoester, CEO Siegfried Gutbrod, Therapeutic Director Paul Bedson, Therapist Greg Rumbold, Research Officer Proofreader: Tara Rawlins/GippsTAFE students ISSN 1839-3640
Membership and Subscriptions Contact: Sue Skinner sue@gawler.org © The Gawler Foundation 2011
Karin Knoester is The Gawler Foundation’s Chief Executive. She can be contacted by email: karin@gawler.org
ABN 79 160 595 251
The contents of this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Gawler Foundation and should not be construed as medical advice. The Gawler Foundation accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any of the opinions, advice, representations or information contained in this publication.
RAFFLE REMINDER
The Gawler Foundation encourages readers to be discerning with information presented and when making treatment, dietary and lifestyle choices.
Thanks to everyone for supporting our 2011 Raffle.
Printed on 100% post consumer waste recycled paper using vegetable oil-based inks.
A reminder that the prize draw is 16 December 2011. Good luck!
How long have I got?
what does a cancer prognosis really mean?
by Dr Ruth Gawler, Dr Greg Rumbold and Lindy Schneider
A
t the time of a diagnosis of a serious illness such as cancer, one of the most emotional and difficult issues is the question of prognosis. It is natural for anyone who is diagnosed with cancer to question what the future holds. Gathering information about what to expect can help patients and their loved ones plan how they are going to respond to the disease.
Research Evidence Summary
The prognosis of a cancer patient can be affected by many factors. The most important ones are the pathology of the disease (type and grade of the cancer) and its stage. Other important factors include the individual’s response to the treatment, patient's general health status and age (National Breast Cancer Centre and National Cancer Control Initiative, 2003). In a situation in which the cancer is expected to respond well to treatment, a doctor may speak of a favourable prognosis, often in terms of cure rates. In cases of advanced cancer, or where the doctor believes that it will be difficult to achieve cancer control, the prognosis may be discussed in terms of survival time. The results from clinical studies show that for many types of cancer the course of the disease can be quite variable. For example, there are many survival curves for people with metastatic cancers that show survival times that ranging from very short (weeks or months) to very long (five to ten years and longer). While the concept of prognosis is straight forward, the estimation and discussion of a prognosis can be complex, misleading and difficult for both the clinician and their patient (Hagerty et al., 2005; Davison et al., 2004; Kiely et al., 2011). Research studies have shown that the way in which a diagnosis is delivered, not only influences the person’s understanding of the illness but can also impact on their psychological adjustment (Davison et al., 2004). For some people, the expert in the white coat giving the prognosis is akin to ‘pointing the bone’ and they will do their best to die on time! (Gawler 1986). In Australia clinical guidelines have been developed
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- The Gawler Foundation magazine
'Hope is the thing with Feathers That perches in the soul and sings the tune without the words And never stops at all.' Emily Dickinson for psychosocial support of cancer patients, which recommend the doctor tailors the information they provide to the individual patient’s needs (National Breast Cancer Centre and National Cancer Control Initiative, 2003). Some people like to know a lot of information, others only a little. (Rodin et al., 2009; Alifrangis et al., 2011). Doctors need to discuss the issue with their patients in order to assess their personal preference for information. Studies have found that most patients either ask about life expectancy, or expect their doctors to raise the issue and would like to have an active involvement in the discussion and ask questions (Innes and Payne, 2009; Hagerty et al., 2005, Davison et al., 2004). Learning more about their prognosis and understanding cancer statistics may help some people understand what they are up against. For others, the discussion of statistical information can be confusing and may increase anxiety and fear rather than ameliorate it (Emanuel et al., 2005; Innes and Payne, 2009).
Statistics – understanding the numbers When discussing a prognosis with an individual patient, doctors use statistics based on groups of people whose circumstances are most similar (cancer type, stage and treatment) to those of the patient. Several types of cancer survival statistics may be referred to such as: •Disease-free or recurrence-free survival rates – the proportion of people who no longer have signs of cancer in their bodies. •Survival rate – the percentage of people with a certain type and stage of cancer who survive for a specific period of time after their diagnosis. For example, a 60% survival rate for a certain type of cancer means that 60%
of people with that type of cancer will live for at least five years, and 40% will not. •Progression-free survival rate – the percentage of people who still have cancer, but their disease isn't progressing. This includes people who have had some success with treatment, but their cancer hasn't disappeared completely. This has been recently developed, as a way of offsetting the lack of impressive survival benefits of many of the chemotherapy regimens. When doctors discuss a prognosis with an individual they are able to refer to group statistics from cancer registries and clinical trials, and also their own clinical experience. However, they are not able to predict the outcome for an individual patient. People behave as unique individuals, not as ‘statistics’, and in all walks of life we see people who are exceptions to the rule. If this is not explicitly explained to patients it can be a source of misery and confusion.
extended survival times. To illustrate this, we will use a hypothetical survival curve (Figure 1). The clinician typically chooses to discuss the median survival time (just over two years) and/or five year survival rate. A doctor may choose not to discuss or disclose to their patients any information about the small group of patients who have experienced long survival times (represented as the tail on the right hand side of the figure) due to a concern that this may present an overly optimistic view of the likely outcome of the disease – or ‘false hope’. This may have a significant impact on an individual patient’s sense of hope and confidence, as well as their capacity to muster their cont. next page>
Survival statistics show that for many cancers there is considerable variation between individuals in terms of survival length, even for patients who have similar clinical profiles. This raises a number of challenges in terms of how this information is conveyed to patients. It has been recognised that some clinicians tend to discuss prognosis in a manner that can be categorised as either a positive or negative framework. For example, the clinician who is focusing on assisting the patient to make a positive adjustment to the disease, and supporting hopefulness may present the information in a positive frame (Clayton et al., 2008). A clinician who is concerned about the potential negative impact of presenting an overly optimistic scenario may take a more conservative approach, generally described as negative framing (National Breast Cancer Centre and National Cancer Control Initiative,. 2003; Back et al., 2005). Descriptive studies suggest that negative framing is the style of communication most frequently employed by oncologists. Surveys of patients have found that they often state a preference for oncologists to provide biomedical information in a manner that demonstrates empathy and understanding and assists them to balance hope and realism (Evans et al., 2006; Fujimori and Uchitomi, 2009; Toh, 2011). Several studies have found that cancer patients tend to be dissatisfied with communication with their doctors in areas relating to emotional issues, spiritual wellbeing and psychological adjustment (National Breast Cancer Centre and National Cancer Control Initiative, 2003; Nelson et al., 2011). These findings suggest that empathy and emotional support are as important in the discussion of prognosis as the statistical information.
The long tail Most survival curves exhibit a 'long tail' indicating that there is a group of patients who experience
Figure 1. Hypothetical Survival Curve
Survival statistics Median survival length gives an indication of the expected survival time. Half the patients will live longer, and half will live shorter than the median survival length of time. Five-year survival rate measures the effect of the cancer over a fiveyear period of time. Disease-free survival rates include only patients who survive five years after the diagnosis without cancer, at the time of study. Five year overall survival rates include all patients who survive five years after diagnosis, whether in remission, disease-free, or undergoing treatment. Doctors may also provide information that relates to the variability of survival times such as standard deviation or quartiles. Although the data from cancer registries and clinical trials are used to discuss a prognosis, doctors are not able to use these statistics to predict what will happen to a particular patient. healthyliving healthyliving - The- The Gawler Gawler Foundation Foundation magazine magazine 5 5
How long have I got?
what does a cancer prognosis really mean? > cont.
energy for taking actions associated with survival. At present, the discussion of cases of extended survival (or ‘indolent cancers’) tends to be limited to discussions among doctors and case reports in medical journals. Patient studies have shown that many people would like to hear about others in their situation who have had a positive outcome and find such examples inspirational and motivating. This is a complex issue; however, the studies of doctor–patient communication suggests that it is unlikely that the inclusion of information about these cases of extended survival will result in misunderstanding, provided the discussion occurs in an open and supportive manner, and the clinician encourages questions and continues to monitor and respond to the patient’s level of understanding. A particular situation in which the consideration of the style of communication is crucial is where the patient is provided with information about the potential benefits and disadvantages of a particular treatment option where the choice is difficult. For example, a person with a metastatic cancer may need considerable conversation to be clear about the advantages and disadvantages of a certain treatment being offered. Medical literature recognises that often there is a lack of informed consent with cancer treatment.
Research Evidence Summary
In such a situation it is important that there is an open discussion about not only the prognostic information but also the risks and the side effects. A prognosis is not a fixed, inflexible prediction. A patient’s prognosis often changes over time. In a recent study using measures of conditional five-year relative survival rates from state-wide, population-based data (Queensland Cancer Registry) on patients aged 15–89 years who were diagnosed with the 13 most common types
Bibliography: Alifrangis C, Koizia L, Rozario A, Rodney S, Harrington M, Somerville C, Peplow T, Waxman J. (2011) The experiences of cancer patients. QJM. 2011 Aug 10. Baade PD, Youlden DR and Chambers SK (2011) When do I know I am cured? Using conditional estimates to provide better information about cancer survival prospects. MJA 2011; 194 (2): 73-77 Back AL, Arnold RM, Baile WF, Tulsky JA, Fryer-Edwards K. (2005) Approaching difficult communication tasks in oncology. CA Cancer J Clin. 2005 May-Jun;55(3):164-77. National Breast Cancer Centre and National Cancer Control Initiative. Clinical practice guidelines for the psychosocial care of adults with cancer. (2003) Camperdown, NSW: National Breast Cancer Centre, 2003. Chow E, Harth T, Hruby G, Finkelstein J, Wu J, Danjoux C. (2001) How accurate are physicians' clinical predictions of survival and the available prognostic tools in estimating survival times in terminally ill cancer patients? A systematic review. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol). 2001;13(3):209-18. Clayton JM, Hancock K, Parker S, Butow PN, Walder S, Carrick S, Currow D, Ghersi D, Glare P, Hagerty R, Olver IN, Tattersall MH. (2008) Sustaining hope when communicating with terminally ill patients and their families: a systematic review. Psychooncology. 2008 Jul;17(7):641-59. Davison BJ, Parker PA, Goldenberg SL (2004) Patients' preferences for communicating a prostate cancer diagnosis and participating in medical decision-making. BJU Int. 2004 Jan;93(1):47-51. Emanuel LL, Ferris FD, von Gunten CF, Von Roenn J, Editors. (2005) EPEC-O: Education in Palliative and End-of-life Care for Oncology (Module 8: Clarifying Diagnosis and Prognosis. The EPEC Project, Chicago, Ill, 2005 Evans WG, Tulsky JA, Back AL, Arnold RM (2006) Communication at times of transitions: how to help patients cope with loss and re-define hope. Cancer J. (2006) Sep-Oct;12(5):417-24. Fujimori M, Uchitomi Y. (2009) Preferences of cancer patients regarding communication of bad news: a systematic literature review. Jpn J Clin Oncol. 2009 Apr;39(4):201-16. Gawler I, (1986) 'You can conquer cancer’, Michelle Anderson Publishing, Melbourne
Ruth
Hagerty RG, Butow PN, Ellis PM, Dimitry S, Tattersall MH (2005) Communicating prognosis in cancer care: a systematic review of the literature. Ann Oncol. 2005 Jul;16(7):1005-53
MB BS MGP Psych FACPsyMed
Kiely BE, Stockler MR, Tattersall MH. (2011) Thinking and talking about life expectancy in incurable cancer. Semin Oncol. 2011 Jun;38(3):380-5.
Dr Ruth Gawler is a GP with a specialist interest in mind-body medicine. She is a program facilitator, GP and therapist at The Gawler Foundation.
Greg
Dr Greg Rumbold is the Research Officer at The Gawler Foundation. He has worked in health research for over 20 years in areas including public health, alcohol and drug research and evidence-based medicine and is supported by Christine Gruettke.
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of invasive cancer between 1982 and 2007, it was found that the prognosis for patients with cancer generally improves with each additional year that they survive (Baade et al., 2011). A person’s preference for the type of information and style of communication about prognosis may also change (Tobin and Begley, 2008). It is therefore useful to think of prognosis as something that is dynamic and subject to change over time. This is the reality of being a living organism in an environment that changes.
- The Gawler Foundation magazine
Innes S, Payne S. (2009) Advanced cancer patients' prognostic information preferences: a review. Palliat Med. 2009 Jan;23(1):29-39.
Nelson JE, Gay EB, Berman AR, Powell CA, Salazar-Schicchi J, Wisnivesky JP. (2011) Patients rate physician communication about lung cancer. Cancer. 2011 Apr 14. Rodin G, Mackay JA, Zimmermann C, Mayer C, Howell D, Katz M, Sussman J, Brouwers M (2009) Clinician-patient communication: a systematic review. Support Care Cancer. 2009 Jun;17(6):627-44. Stockler MR, Tattersall MH, Boyer MJ, Clarke SJ, Beale PJ, Simes RJ. (2006) Disarming the guarded prognosis: predicting survival in newly referred patients with incurable cancer. Br J Cancer. 2006 Jan 30;94(2):208-12. Tobin GA, Begley C. (2008) Receiving bad news: a phenomenological exploration of the lived experience of receiving a cancer diagnosis. Cancer Nurs. 2008 Sep-Oct;31(5) Toh HC. (2011) Providing hope in terminal cancer: when is it appropriate and when is it not? Ann Acad Med Singapore. 2011 Jan;40(1):50-6.
crazy enough to
believe die around the same time. This is the statistic most prognoses are based upon. Maybe if the doctor is optimistic, it is pushed a little to the right; pessimistic, a little to the left. But the message is clear. These are only statistics. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with the same cancer as many other people, those people's history is interesting and points to what is possible, but not to what is certain. You are a statistically unique event. You could fall anywhere on the curve. That is a statistical fact. That is reality. The big question then is what affects where you end up? Is it simply a matter of statistics and random chance, or will what you do influence the outcome?
P
eople diagnosed with cancer are statistically unique. On average, statistics are useful to predict what might happen, to set the odds, but you will never know an outcome until time moves on and the race is run. Before my own secondaries were diagnosed, I had been into the medical libraries and had not been able to find a record of anyone surviving the type of metastatic cancer I had (osteogenic sarcoma) for more than six months. If I had accepted this fact, accepted my prognosis, I could very easily have withdrawn, become passive and died on time. What a blessing in retrospect that I was 'crazy' enough to believe it was possible to recover. Crazy in that, to do this, I went against all prevailing evidence of the day. However, there is real logic to what I did and how any other person with cancer needs to approach their prognosis. When one looks at the range of outcomes to nearly all situations in life, they normally vary quite a deal. With cancer, it is just the same. The evidence is clear that faced with similar diagnoses, some people will live a long time and some not so long at all. This is often referred to a normal distribution and is expressed graphically in a bell curve. The bell curve shows how, if say, 1000 people were diagnosed with a similar cancer, as time goes on, some die soon, most die in the average time and some live on for a much longer time. The time factors will differ for different cancers and the exact shape of the curve may vary too, but the idea is clear. When a large number of people are tracked with a given cancer, most
Let's consider horse racing. If you were interested in backing a horse in a race and you knew it was not being fed well, how would you feel? What if it was not well trained? How about if it was one of those horses that did not enjoy racing? Surely these factors affect the outcome? So too with cancer. If you embrace good treatment which direction will that take you in? If you eat well, will that take you right or left on the graph? Eat badly? If you remain filled with fear and dread, or if you develop a positive, committed approach, what is likely? Everyone is unique. Every human being has incredible potential. With our body, our emotions, our mind and our spirit; how amazing! No wonder human beings continue to do things that were thought to be impossible, to break through into new realities in so many aspects of life. But here in the field of cancer it is clear and logical. Statistics may lead to a prognosis where a person diagnosed with cancer may supposedly have an easy or difficult future. In all situations, it is logical; it is statistically accurate to say that hope is real. I have done it. I have seen many others beat the odds as well. It is perfectly reasonable to be optimistic, to believe in the real possibility of recovery and based on this hope, to do a lot to work towards realising that outcome.
it's possible healthyliving - The Gawler Foundation magazine 7
Sam's natural healing by Sam Aulton My name is Sam and I was 41 on 14 June this year. On 23 February 2011, I was informed by a pragmatic oncologist that I had a metastatic breast cancer in my spine and the average life expectancy was two to three years. That was a shock. It had been nearly eleven years since I had my initial breast cancer diagnosis and after permitting some 'cut-poisonburn', I was under the impression that cancer was in my past and only in my past. Anyway by luck I got a place in the 'Life and Living' residential program that started on 28 February and off I flew to Melbourne. I had looked at The Gawler Foundation after my initial diagnosis and it sounded like a great thing to do but I did not take the initiative. Back then in 2000, I was 30 and infallible, and yes, confident I would beat cancer and get back to life as I knew it. So there I was saying goodbye to my six and three-year-old daughters and my husband to go on the ten-day program, where I would find hope and realism. My fears were replaced with hope, determination, goals and a realistic change of lifestyle. The Gawler Foundation's ten-day program changed my view of myself and my coping strategies, and it enabled me to initiate a new way of life that would lead to healing on every level. When I returned home, I quickly settled into the new diet and decided to extend my diet to eating 100% alkaline foods and drinking only green juices. I fired my oncologist and hired a new recommended one, Dr Stewart. I also consulted with Dr Chen, a Chinese practitioner in West Ryde. I was then informed that I also had lung metastases as well and this had caused the Christmas time pneumonia that had started this whole journey off again. The oncologist strongly recommended another lung scan as the previous one had been done in January and it was now mid-March. After being at The Gawler Foundation retreat and feeling confident in the tools they had provided me, I put off the scan until 30 May. This I believed would be enough time for me to make a real impact on my health as I wasn’t interested in chemo again. I practised Qigong daily, meditated twice daily and reformed well to an alkaline diet. I started on Iscador (a mistletoe-derived homeopathic remedy), Chinese immune building herbs, progesterone cream and recommended herbal supplements, specifically for breast cancer, from an immunologist. I also drove my naturopath sister a little crazy telling her, as
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I researched via the internet, each herb she could access for me that would help and support my body’s natural healing processes. I also bought Essiac Tea and started to follow the Budwig diet, just having one bowl of quark and flaxseed each day with a few raspberries added for palatability. When I had the lung CT in May, it showed that the previous tumours had disappeared. This gave me a lot of confidence and pride in the effort I had made. The Chinese doctor congratulated me but the oncologist did a back flip stating that it probably wasn’t cancer in my lungs after all! He asked me to get a bone scan. I put this off for another three months. Within this time I slackened off on the meditation and decided to let some brown rice and spelt bread back into my life, but apart from that I stuck to the program and even began teaching Qigong at a local park to people in my area. I wanted people to learn about Qigong and The Gawler Foundation programs, and how they could be instrumental in their own healing. I contacted the local newspaper and they ran my story on the front cover. I received dozens of phone calls (and am still receiving them now) from people wanting to know what I have done to help myself. The first thing that I always tell them is that they should come to The Gawler Foundation's 'Life and Living' program because without that ten days of brilliant information I would not have had the resources I needed, nor the confidence in my body’s own healing ability. My goal now is to heal and to help others to understand their own capacity to heal. My recent bone scan has shown no growth in the tumours in my spine and my Chinese doctor has shown me clear boundaries around my tumours suggesting that I have cut off their lifeline. I want to thank all of the wonderful people at The Gawler Foundation for changing my life and giving me the impetus to change. I also say thanks to my supportive husband and two daughters. I am, and will continue to be, a healthy and happy woman.
Your health is your wealth by Dr Warren Sipser & Andi Lew www.7things.com.au
With the current global financial crisis in full swing it seems the only investment we can be guaranteed to get a return on is when we invest in our health! The wellness industry is booming. There’s organic this and that and even the drug companies are trying to ‘cash in’ on the phrase. True wellness is about prevention, not cure. It’s about being proactive, not reactive. One profession leading the wellness revolution, both philosophically and practically, is Chiropractic. Chiropractors are interested in not only helping you to get your health back, but also taking you to the next level. There’s no ceiling as to how healthy you can be when you invest in taking care of your lifeline – your spine! Chiropractic is based on the scientific fact that your body is a self-regulating, self-healing organism. These important functions are controlled by the brain, spinal cord, and all the nerves of the body. Just as the skull protects the delicate tissues of the brain, the moving bones of the spine protect the vulnerable communication pathways of the spinal cord and nerve roots. If the nervous system is impaired, it can cause malfunction of the tissue and organs throughout the body. This is called Vertebral Subluxation. You wouldn’t even know if you had it because only about 10% of your nerve system can feel. That means 90% of your nerve system is dedicated to functioning every cell, tissue and organ in your body. Vertebral Subluxation is most commonly caused by work and home stress – affecting blood pressure and blood sugar which are precursors to diabetes. Other obvious causes are physical stressors such as poor posture at work, holding the phone with your ear, being in a sedentary position for too long at the computer and general bumps and falls. Chiropractic is the science of locating spinal stress patterns, the art of reducing their negative impact to the nervous system, and a philosophy of natural healthcare based on your inborn potential to be healthy. Brushing your teeth prevents cavities and waiting to get a hole before you brushed them would be like waiting to get symptoms before you had your spine and nerve system checked. Have you ever had a stressful day at the office and found your breath shorter, and your shoulders and neck tight? This is called a defence posture and may starve your brain of oxygen. Stay this ‘stuck’ for too long and things like arthritis and degeneration can start to set in. All of these symptoms are actually linked because your body will constantly try and adapt to the stress.
Data from the 1999–2000 study of General Practice activity in Australia shows that high blood pressure is the most common problem managed by General Practitioners, accounting for 6% of all problems managed. A report by the Australian Diabetes, Obesity and Lifestyle Study found that in 1999–2000, more than 3.6 million Australians over the age of 25 had high blood pressure, which equates to 31% of men and 26% of women. Scientific findings indicate that Chiropractic care, as a non-drug alternative, can help lower abnormal blood pressure in healthy bodies by 7.8%–13%. The latest findings, published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics Vol.24, No.2, by Dr Gary Knutson DC, show chiropractic adjustments to the upper neck can lower systolic blood pressure almost immediately. A pilot study involving 80 people found there is a relationship between the upper neck vertebrae and the body’s natural blood pressure control reflexes. Good results were measured for older patients, in particular. Traditionally the causes of blood pressure, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, have been linked to excess weight, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, dietary salt intake and nutrition patterns with low intake of fruit and vegetables and a high intake of saturated fat. Although not a treatment for every disease, Chiropractic is designed to maximise life and boost the body's recuperative powers. Your local Chiropractor can educate you on how to remove all interferences with body function (subluxation) and to seek out more natural, conservative methods before submitting to the more radical (drug and surgical) approaches. Exercise, rest and emotional care, along with a healthy spine and nervous system, are all vital for optimal health and wellbeing. Explore them all.
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2011–12 Gawler Foundation Programs
Residential Programs – Yarra Junction
Residential Programs for Cancer, Residential Programs Promoting Multiple Sclerosis and other Illnesses Health and Wellbeing ► Life and Living
► Set Your Compass
A ten-day transformative program to meet and help overcome the challenges of cancer.
Weekend retreat facilitated by Siegfried Gutbrod that guides purposeful life planning for a year ahead.
Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre
Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre
• Monday 5 Dec - Thursday 15 Dec 2011
• Friday 20 Jan – Sunday 22 Jan 2012 • Friday 3 Aug - Sunday 5 Aug 2012
• Monday 30 Jan - Thursday 9 Feb 2012 • Monday 27 Feb - Thursday 8 Mar 2012
► Weekend Meditation Retreat
• Monday 7 May - Thursday 17 May 2012
Weekend retreat to de-stress, relax and recharge your batteries. An excellent interlude in a busy life.
• Monday 4 Jun - Thursday 14 Jun 2012
Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre
• Monday 9 Jul - Thursday 19 Jul 2012
• Friday 27 Jan – Sunday 29 Jan 2012 • Friday 15 Jun – Sunday 17 Jun 2012
• Tuesday 10 Apr - Friday 20 Apr 2012
• Monday 10 Sept - Thursday 20 Sept 2012 • Monday 8 Oct - Thursday 18 Oct 2012 • Monday 5 Nov - Thursday 15 Nov 2012
• Friday 19 Oct – Sunday 21 Oct 2012
► Living in Balance
• Monday 3 Dec - Thursday 13 Dec 2012
Five day retreat to connect with the essence of life, inner wisdom and strength. Develop healthy strategies and let go of old habits.
► Life and Living - The Next Step
Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre
Five day follow-up program for people who have completed 'Life and Living' or 'Living Well'. Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre
• Monday 19 Mar - Friday 23 Mar 2012
• Monday 21 May - Friday 25 May 2012 • Monday 26 Nov - Friday 30 Nov 2012
► Moving to Your Rhythm Womens Retreat
► Healing Meditation Retreat Three day retreat that facilitates the healing process for people dealing with an illness.
• Monday 25 Jun - Friday 29 Jun 2012 • Monday 1 Oct - Friday 5 Oct 2012
Weekend retreat to nurture and invigorate your womanhood. A break to recharge, connect and rest. Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre • Friday 27 Apr - Sunday 29 Apr 2012
Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre
• Friday 2 Nov - Sunday 4 Nov 2012
• Wednesday 15 Feb - Friday 17 Feb 2012 • Wednesday 30 May - Friday 1 June 2012
► Pathways to Intimacy
• Wednesday 21 Nov - Friday 23 Nov 2012
► Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis Five day practical and inspirational program facilitated by Professor George Jelinek. Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre • Monday 12 Mar - Friday 16 Mar 2012 • Monday 20 Aug - Friday 24 Aug 2012 • Monday 22 Oct - Friday 26 Oct 2012
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Weekend retreat for couples and individuals to invite more intimacy into life and enhance all relationships. Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre • Friday 6 Jul - Sunday 8 Jul 2012
► The Essence of Health Three day retreat to explore the seven essential pillars of good health. Facilitated by Dr Craig Hassed. Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre • Friday 31 Aug - Sunday 2 Sept 2012
2011–12 Gawler Foundation Programs Non-Residential - Hawthorn, Springvale, Footscray
►Ongoing Meditation and Cancer
► 18-session Program with Ian Gawler
► Living Well - Cancer, Healing and Wellbeing
This 18-session program is suitable for those who have completed 'Life and Living' or 'Living Well'. Work closely with Ian and explore the outer reaches of your potential. Challenging, fun and transforming.
Support Groups
Twelve weekly sessions to meet and help overcome the challenges of cancer. Venue: The Gawler Foundation at Hawthorn • Tuesday 31 Jan – Tuesday 17 Apr 2012 • Tuesday 15 May – Tuesday 31 Jul 2012 • Tuesday 21 Aug – Tuesday 13 Nov 2012
Venue: The Bluestone Church, Footscray • Monday 30 Jan – Monday 30 Apr 2012 • Monday 14 May – Monday 6 Aug 2012 • Monday 20 Aug – Monday 5 Nov 2012
► Integration Program
Venue: The Gawler Foundation at Hawthorn
• Commencing Wednesday 7 Mar to Wednesday14 Nov 2012 (with some breaks) All dates TBC. Please call to register your interest.
Mindfulness-based Stillness Meditation ► Six-Week Non-Residential Program
The six-week meditation course is an excellent opportunity to learn or deepen your meditation and relaxation skills.
Venue: The Gawler Foundation at Hawthorn Eight week program for those who have completed 'Life • Monday 13 Feb - Monday 26 Mar (12.00pm - 2.00pm) and Living' or 'Living Well'. Develop, deepen and share healing methods and experiences through an interactive • Monday 13 Feb - Monday 26 Mar (6.00pm - 8.00pm) support group program. Programs run from 9.30am – • Monday 23 Jul - Monday 3 Sept (12.00pm - 2.00pm) 12.30pm with Robyn. Venue: The Gawler Foundation at Hawthorn • Thursday 18 Oct – Thursday 6 Dec 2012
► Meditation Group — Drop-in
Weekly Meditation group provides an opportunity to share your experiences with others and maintain your momentum and commitment to regular practice. Venue: The Gawler Foundation at Hawthorn • Tuesday (weekly) ongoing (1.30pm – 2.30pm) • Thursday (weekly) ongoing (12.00pm – 1.00pm)
Venue: Yarra Valley Living Centre • Tuesday (weekly) ongoing (6.45pm - 8.00pm)
► Ongoing Cancer Support Group
Share new ideas and experiences with others and reinforce the principles of self-help, group meditation and mutual support. Programs run from 2.30pm 4.30pm. Venue: The Gawler Foundation at Hawthorn
• Monday 18 Jun - Monday 23 Jul (6.00pm - 8.00pm)
• Monday 10 Sept - Monday 22 Oct (12.00pm - 2.00pm) • Monday 27 Aug - Monday 1 Oct (6.00pm - 8.00pm) • Monday 29 Oct - Monday 10 Dec (12.00pm - 2.00pm) • Monday 29 Oct - Monday 10 Dec (6.00pm - 8.00pm)
► Six-Week Healing Meditation - NEW
The six-week course will focus on healing meditation practice. It is suitable for those who have completed the '6-week meditation' program, 'Life and Living' or the 'Living Well' programs. Venue: The Gawler Foundation at Hawthorn • Thursday 15 Mar - Thursday 19 Apr (10.00am - 12.00pm)
Contact and Venue details Bookings: email info@gawler.org or call 03 5967 1730 The Gawler Foundation at Hawthorn
• Tuesday (weekly) ongoing
565 Burwood Road, Hawthorn Vic
► Mind Body Spirit Seminar Series 2012
Opening Hours: Mon - Fri, 9.00am – 4.30pm
Venue: The Gawler Foundation at Hawthorn • Dates TBA
The Bluestone Church 8A Hyde Street, Footscray Vic The Yarra Valley Living Centre 55 Rayner Court, Yarra Junction Vic healthyliving - The Gawler Foundation magazine 11
From the stillness of meditation, discover the power within to live your life to its full potential.
inspir e, inform , amus e,
healing is possible and achievable
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You have been given this card by someone who cares. So do we.
The Gawler Foundation
www.gawler.org tel 03 5967 1730
Share card Have you seen our 'Share card'? It is a terrific way to pass on information about the Foundation to anyone who might need to know about us. How often do you find yourself in a conversation where you say 'give The Gawler Foundation a call'? A few of these cards tucked in your purse or wallet may be just the thing to share a message of hope with others. Pick some up next time you visit us!
Farewell Song August 2011 Life and Living Participants To be sung to the tune of Yellow Submarine by The Beatles
We all came from near and far Some by aeroplane, some by car Diagnoses at every stage Young and old, we’re every age. When we wake we meditate There’s the bell again, we can’t be late Every day we learn our stuff Now the road ahead is not so rough. And the food’s beyond belief But very good for bowel relief Never mind the flow of juice Green and orange, red and puce. Chorus 1 (repeat) We all live on soy and lentil beans, Cabbage rice and greens, Porridge and mandarins. When we walk around the track See the kangaroos, there and back Past the pond and up the hills Stop to smell the daffodils.
TGF 'Ride to work'
Sieggy dressed up like a clown
Eight members of Team TGF donned helmets and cycle gear to ride eight kilometres to work on 12 October. They braved wintry conditions and enjoyed a delicious TGF breakfast on arrival. Well done to all.
Jenni tucked us in at night
Had us laughing, and rolling around And Mike played harp to our delight. Robyn and Nat assessed our mood And Gail tempted us with vegan food
Set Your Compass 2012 in the Yarra Valley
Dr Ruth and Dr Craig
Create your meaningful and authentic life anew with our Set Your Compass retreat, on the weekend of 20-22 January. Spend time reflecting on the year ahead and the ways in which you can live to your fullest potential. This retreat, facilitated by Siegfried Gutbrod, will explore a purposeful 2012 through meditation and reflection, art, group process work and time in nature. Begin your new year with a deep sense of place and progress. Bookings available now.
We want more of the date and almond balls
healthyliving - The Gawler Foundation magazine
Told us the story of how we’re made. Chorus 2 (repeat) Date and almond balls Date and almond balls. We have laughed and we have cried Now it’s time for us to say goodbye. Chorus 3 Psycho-neuro-immunology It’s great technology, to beat the big C Psycho-neuro-immunology Some mindfulness and peace will set you free.
news and views Vo l u n t e e r s ' C h r i s t m a s P a r t y Friday 16 December 2012
A warm invitation is extended to all our wonderful members and volunteers to celebrate the festive season with us at the Yarra Valley Living Centre. Join us for welcome drinks, meditation, a three-course Christmas lunch, entertainment, the 2011 Raffle draw, and a chance to connect and celebrate another year of health and wellbeing. Join us on Friday 16 December at midday. Please RSVP by Thursday 8 December on 03 5967 1730 or email info@gawler.org Bookings essential.
New video testimonials on our website New to the 'Inspiring Stories' section of our website are several video testimonials from past program participants. Hear their stories of hope and courage, and their quest for wellness.
Building our FACEBOOK community...
Are you a Facebook user? Have you liked our TGF page? Join our online community so we can keep you up-to-date and share ideas. Or simply click the LIKE button on our website. Join us on Facebook.
Inspiring stories change lives Would you like to share your healing story and inspire others? You do not need any particular writing skills (we can take care of that), just a willingness to share your journey in as much or as little detail as you choose. Your story could then be featured (with your permission) on our webite's 'Inspiring Stories', in the Healthy Living magazine or in future fundraising initiatives. Poems, letters, images and inspirations are also welcome. If you have a story you would like to share, please send to the editor Lindy Schneider at media@gawler.org, or call on 03 5967 1730 to discuss your ideas.
healthyliving - The Gawler Foundation magazine 13
Membership Matters with Shelley One of the benefits of working for the Foundation is that we get to meet ordinary people doing extraordinary things – amazing people who rise above personal adversity and use difficult life experiences to grow into stronger, fuller people, living life with abundance and open-hearted generosity. As we move closer to the Christmas season of family and sharing, I would like to share some updates on two amazing families who are using their experiences to promote our work and support our fundraising.
The Foundation needs your support this Christmas It’s wonderful to hear the positive impact our programs have on so many families. Unfortunately, 2011 has been a tough year for the Foundation financially. Many of our services are subsidised and demand for our help continues to grow. If you haven’t done so already, please consider a gift to the Foundation this Christmas. Your support will ensure our vital work can continue in 2012.
Raenor re-building a community after the bushfires We first wrote about Raenor in 2008 as she battled breast cancer. Now, I am happy to report that this courageous woman, who faced the challenge of cancer, inspired her good friend Bruce to beat his prognosis, and fought the 2009 Victorian Bushfires, is doing well. In fact, her new goal is to make her town the healthiest community on earth! She has a very positive mindset and a determination to sow the seeds of change. She believes that by acting in small loving ways within your own family and community, you can become a catalyst for change in the wider community. Raenor calls herself an ordinary person but she is so much more than ordinary.
Fundraising News
Read more about Raenor's journey in our Christmas Appeal at www.gawler.org
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Team Tim Ride Around the Bay
Recently, 35 Team Tim riders and a large support crew took part in Melbourne’s Ride Around the Bay, to raise money for The Gawler Foundation in honour and memory of Tim Johnson. Tim's wife Sharee says, ‘There have been so many ripples out into the world from this one event. Some people have got back on their bikes and done something healthy, others have admired the sheer determination and commitment of our riders, wondering what they might be capable of. Many people have felt the pure joy in their experiences of riding, sharing and giving. Lots of people have reflected upon Tim and continue sharing their stories of him.' 'For Tim’s and my children, we have been humbled by the gifts of joy and love we have received from so many people, and have felt Tim’s presence during this 'riding journey' in so many concrete and emotional ways. We have had the opportunity to talk about life and its purpose; about how we might live our best lives for Tim, and also for our own individual selves. We have talked and experienced community in its best forms – sharing, helping, passion and compassion. We have practised living in the present moment. Ian Gawler says, 'Wake up, don’t wait to look death in the eye'. My understanding of this is to be aware and alert to life right now, in this moment – all of the feelings, all of the experiences. During this bike riding journey, we have been living our own best lives. As my brother has said, 'Although we can’t have Tim with us I feel blessed, honoured and full of happiness that HE is still impacting on us in such a positive and energetic way'. Read more about Team Tim at www.gawler.org/everyday-heroes-tim-johnson
healthyliving - The Gawler Foundation magazine
In The Bookstore EARTHING
C Ober, ST Sinatra MD, M Zucker
Reviews by Robin Jones
$28.95
Clinton Ober is a pioneer in the cable TV industry who discovered the benefits of ‘Earthing’ and then pursued scientific evidence to support his theory that re-connecting ourselves to the Earth on a regular basis has significant health benefits. Our modern lifestyle keeps us insulated from this once normal contact. Synthetic materials in floor coverings, furnishings and the soles of our shoes, travelling so much by riding in cars, living and working in high-rise buildings all contribute to our lack of direct connection to the Earth. Many of us hardly ever experience skin-to-soil contact. A number of research projects show that the human body works better, develops less imbalances and recovers more quickly when it can draw free electrons from the ground. This book’s website sells some products that can assist us to remain connected, even when indoors, but the main message is that you can achieve the same thing by spending time walking barefoot on the beach or doing Qigong in your garden without shoes.
MINDFUL EATING
Jan Chozen Bays MDw
$26.70
The art of mindfulness can transform our struggles with food and renew our sense of pleasure, appreciation and satisfaction with eating. Drawing on recent research and integrating her experience as a physician and meditation teacher, Dr Jan Bays offers a wonderfully clear presentation of what mindfulness is and how it can help with food issues. Mindful eating is an approach that involves bringing one’s full attention to the process of eating – to all the tastes, smells, thoughts and feelings that arise during a meal. Learn how to tune into your body’s own wisdom about what, when and how much to eat. Eat less while feeling fully satisfied. Identify your habits and patterns with food. Develop a more compassionate attitude towards your struggles with eating. Discover what you are really hungry for. Includes a 75-minute CD with guided exercises. Aligns well with our approach to healthy, mindful eating as a way of really celebrating life with food. INTO THE HEART OF LIFE
Tenzin Palmo
$25.00
Tenzin Palmo was one of the first Westerners to meet the lamas coming out of Tibet and to study the Tibetan Buddhist teachings deeply. She spent twelve years in seclusion, practising meditation in a remote Himalayan cave. Cave in the Snow by Vicki Mackenzie is the story of her life. Here Palmo introduces some of the essential teachings on impermanence, happiness and compassion in a style that is both insightful and engaging. This is not some lofty treatise by a holy person who has risen above all worldly concerns and so teaches in a way that requires translation, but an explanation which shows deep understanding of both the subject and how it can apply to normal people in daily life. The down-to-earth character of this book provides great reading for anyone on a spiritual path, whether or not they are interested in Buddhism. Financial Members receive a ten percent discount on books and audio and five percent discount on the Champion Juicer. Please quote your membership number when ordering. Robin Jones is The Gawler Foundation’s Resource Centre manager.
How to order: Go to the shopping cart at www.gawler.org or contact the Resource Centre on tel 03 5967 1730, fax 03 5967 1715 or email resources@ gawler.org. SHIPPING RATES: Available through the shopping cart on our website or contact us. healthyliving - The Gawler Foundation magazine 15
Meditation forever, for everything by Dr Ruth Gawler In this article, I will share something of my own early experiences with meditation as a young mother and medical doctor. I will focus on the realities rather than the theories or research about meditation to illustrate and illuminate some issues that I experienced. Perhaps my story will resonate with you.
I
n 1986 I became interested in meditation when I was facing the birth of my first child. Having heard how painful and frightening my own mother’s experience of childbirth was, I needed a way of managing my mounting panic as the baby grew inside me. In Sydney, a wonderful Thai Buddhist monk in Ashfield was conducting weekly classes and I duly attended every Tuesday night. I might add that I was not really interested in religion of any kind at that time; I was simply interested in what I knew to be a calming self-help technique. The evening classes would start with a talk about Buddhist ethics for half an hour (which I largely let wash over me), and then we would meditate. The monk gave very little instruction – just sit quietly and follow your breath. And we all did that.
manageable, in spite of me being crazy enough to work hard right up until the baby was due. Yet I was okay. My labour was fairly normal for a first baby, with a slow first stage and plenty of pain. I could not meditate during the labour, but instead I concentrated on my breathing and then later sang my way through the contractions – all sorts of songs at the top of my voice. I created a bit of hilarity in the hospital ward, but I was not being distracted by it at all. My concentration was honed. The birth went well and I was overjoyed with the arrival of my baby son and what we had come through. We had six heavenly weeks carried by all the excitement and all the endorphins. So, I stopped meditating and I was totally preoccupied by all the things I needed to do to look after the baby and the home. And somehow I got very lost. I never expected to need more than I had for managing my new situation. I forgot myself in every sense of those words. I am sure this is not an uncommon scenario for women who have had careers and then become mothers.
Week after week, with an expanding belly, I went without fail. My fear made me very diligent, and at home I would practise one hour every day in the morning before breakfast.
One thing I wish I had known is that meditation is a life skill that is ‘forever’ and actually ‘for everything’. If this had ever been said to me, then I had certainly forgotten it in those early months of motherhood.
Over time I noticed that I was a happier person – more lighthearted and not so afraid of childbirth. I felt more secure. Things began to seem very
Most people start meditating for a reason, something like I did. However, the message is actually this is only the reason to BEGIN. My
16 healthyliving
- The Gawler Foundation magazine
with ADHD or other ‘behavioural’ disorders, to the extent of illicit drug use we see in all sorts of people, and in all sorts of life circumstances. I believe the answer lies not in diagnosing and pathologising most of the population, but in educating about the necessity of developing a regular meditation practice. People need a real way of bringing their minds home and getting to know themselves, and they need to find a way of spending time with themselves that provides a universal antidote to the constant barrage of the normal and extraordinary demands of life. That universal antidote is meditation. The way I understand it now, it would be beneficial for anyone having counselling or psychotherapy to be taught meditation, and be encouraged and supported to practise it at home regularly. Meditation supports and stabilises the positive changes that are being made. It is a necessary life skill that is on-tap whenever it is needed and is completely under the individual’s control.
advice is CONTINUE because it’s good for you! What I really needed to do was to continue with meditation practice and have ongoing group support – ‘my community’, and get some real help with adjusting to a new kind of life with a different rhythm and priorities to those of my working life. Thinking back, I believe that this may have prevented me from having a major post-natal depression that was left untreated for over a year. We live more and more in times where we are disconnected from everything natural. For both adults and children, mental health has become a real concern – from the extraordinary epidemics of depression and anxiety supported by a billion dollar drug industry, to the thousands of children
Meditation protects people from the physical and psychological stresses of modern life. It provides people with an opportunity to discover spirituality and is a priceless, yet cost-free practice. And best of all, meditation helps people find themselves, and find a place of peace in their lives and in their hearts.
Free MS Book Offer The Gawler Foundation will provide a free copy of Professor George Jelinek’s book, Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis – An Evidence-Based Guide to Recovery (Recommended Retail Price $45), to anyone affected directly or indirectly by MS. This follows a donation from a benefactor who has done well using this approach.
You can pick up your free copy from either of The Gawler Foundation’s Resource Centres:
Hawthorn – 565 Burwood Road, Vic Mon - Fri 9am to 4.30pm Yarra Junction – 55 Rayner Court, Vic Mon - Fri 9am to 5.00pm We can also mail your copy for a Postage & Handling charge of $17.00.
Phone (03) 5967 1730 or order online at www.gawler.org Limit one book per person. While stocks last.
healthyliving - The Gawler Foundation magazine 17
It is often a challenge to prepare interesting and transportable food for a picnic. Whether down at the beach, up in the hills or just in the back garden, picnics are a meal that the whole family can enjoy. So, here is a menu that can be easily prepared in advance and will survive the journey. Happy travels!
The Gawler Salad Dressing This is our very popular dressing – and can be used to create different dressings for every occasion. 2 cups flaxseed oil 1 cup apple cider vinegar 3 cloves garlic, crushed 2 teaspoons mustard ¼ cup honey
1. Place all ingredients in a tall jug and combine with hand blender to emulsify. 2. Check for taste and adjust flavours. (Apple cider can come in many different strengths, so it is important to adjust to your liking.) 3. Store in the refrigerator in a glass jar (keeps 3 days). Variations: Almond dressing – Add a handful of almonds to 1 cup of dressing and mix with a hand held blender. Do this just before serving as the dressing will continue to thicken.
Gail Lazenbury is The Gawler Foundation’s Catering Manager.
Coleslaw
Serves four
¼ small cabbage ¼ small red cabbage 2 carrots 2 sticks celery 1 capsicum 2 spring onions ¼ cup Gawler salad dressing 2 tablespoons soy mayonnaise 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped 1. Thinly slice the cabbage or use a food processor to finely shred. 2. Peel and grate the carrot.
Sun-dried tomato dressing – Add 6 sun-dried tomatoes to 1 cup of dressing and mix with hand held blender.
3. Thinly slice the celery.
Olive dressing – Add ¼ cup of pitted olives to 1 cup of dressing and mix with a hand held blender.
5. Thinly slice the spring onions.
Herb dressing – Add ¼ cup of finely chopped fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, basil or thyme to 1 cup of dressing and mix with a hand held blender. Roast capsicum dressing – Add the flesh from one roasted capsicum (remove charred skin and membranes) to 1 cup of dressing and mix with a hand held blender.
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healthyliving - The Gawler Foundation magazine
4. Dice the capsicum into small 1 centimetre pieces. 6. Place all the above vegetables into a large bowl and toss together. 7. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy mayonnaise and Gawler salad dressing to make the coleslaw dressing. 8. Mix the coleslaw dressing through the vegetables just before serving and scatter parsley on top.
Celebrate with a Picnic Frittata
Rice Paper Rolls
1 large carrot
180 mm rice paper wrappers
500 gms pumpkin
Any combination of the following:
1 onion
½ red capsicum
3 potatoes
½ cucumber
½ cup soy milk
1 carrot
100 gms firm tofu
200 gms firm tofu (marinated in ½ water and ½ tamari)
Serves four
2 teaspoons mixed herbs 1-2 tablespoons tamari 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1. Preheat oven to 180c. 2. Scrub carrot, and cut into 3 millimetre rounds. (A food processor with a slicing blade could also be used for the vegetable slicing.)
Makes twenty
125 gms beanshoots
50 gms snowpeas 1 sprig Vietnamese mint leaves ¼ bunch coriander leaves
3. Peel and remove seeds from pumpkin and cut into 3 millimetre thin slices.
6 large lettuce leaves
4. Thinly slice onion.
1. Prepare vegetables that are being used - any combination will work.
5. Set up the steamer over a large amount of rapidly boiling water, and start to steam the harder vegetables such as the carrots and potatoes. When they are nearly done, add the onion and pumpkin. 6. When all the vegetables are soft, remove from heat and allow to cool. 7. In a food processor, process (using a blade), the tofu, soy milk and seasonings. If you are not using a food processor, grate the tofu and then mix with the soy milk and other ingredients. 8. Place the cooled vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Pour the tofu mixture over them and gently stir through – the pumpkin will break up but this adds a lovely colour to the frittata. 9. Lightly grease a pie dish (24 cm diameter) with olive oil. 10. Add the vegetable and tofu mix, smooth and level top. 11. Cook in oven for 40 minutes.
Fruit Kebabs
Cut a variety of your favourite fruits into cubes and thread onto bamboo skewers.
Chilli Dipping Sauce In a small saucepan, bring ½ cup honey and ¾ cup apple cider vinegar to the boil. Add 1/8 teaspoon dried chilli and simmer for 20 minutes. Allow to cool. Add 1 small red capsicum (diced) and juice from the 50 mm piece of grated ginger. Garnish with 1 sliced spring onion.
Autumn Harvest 2011
1 packet bean sprouts (especially broccoli and alfalfa)
2. Julienne (thinly slice) or grate the carrot. 3. Julienne the capsicum and shred the lettuce. 4. Blanch the bean shoots in boiling water for a few moments and drain in cold water. 5. Thinly slice the snowpeas. 6. Cut tofu into thin long sticks and marinate. 7. Thinly slice Vietnamese mint. 8. Pluck leaves off coriander. 9. Prepare the vermicelli rice noodles by placing the dry noodles in a heatproof bowl and covering with boiling water (or follow the instructions on the packet). Allow to stand for 1 minute till soft. Rinse in cold water and drain. 10. Prepare the individual rice paper wrappers. Dampen a large tea towel to use as a work surface. In a bowl of warm water, soak one rice paper wrapper for a few moments. Remove from water and place on the tea towel. Repeat process with other wrappers. You can prepare up to six wrappers at a time. 11. Place a stack of filling on the centre of the softened wrapper ensuring that the pile is even and that there is enough space at the sides. Fold one end of the wrapper over the filling, turn in the sides to hold the veggies in place, then roll up tightly. 12. Cover the rolls with a slightly damp tea towel while making the other rolls. 13. Serve immediately with chilli dipping sauce (see recipe), or prepare a dipping sauce of tamari with a small amount of water and grated ginger. healthyliving - The Gawler Foundation magazine 19
The Gawler Foundation gratefully acknowledges all our conference sponsors and supporters Major sponsors:
Also sponsored by:
™
Quality FOOD ®
Proudly supported by:
national
institute of integrative
medicine
PRINTERS
PRINTERS
Tim Gordon
Tim Gordon
Director
Thank you from The Gawler Foundation
1 Rose Avenue Croydon Vic 3136 Telephone (03) 9725 4522 Fax (03) 9725 8869 Mobile 0408 106 660 Email tim@grvprint.com.au
Sincere thanks to everyone involved with this special event including the speakers, sponsors, supporters, volunteers and staff for their outstanding efforts. Once again the contribution of resources, knowledge, time and energy has ensured a successful and informative conference for all who attended. Please check our website for conference papers. PRINTERS
Director
1 Rose Avenue Croydon Vic 3136 Telephone (03) 9725 4522 Fax (03) 9725 8869 Email sales@grvprint.com.au
2012 DIARY DATE: ‘Profound Healing - Sustainable’ Wellbeing Conference Sat 17 & Sun 18 November 2012 at Hilton on the Park, Melbourne. PRINTERS