♥

In my elusive search for finding & making ‘me’ time, in order to reflect and just ‘be’ in a self inflicted hectic schedule of work, exercise, socialising & living life in general, I recently attended a 1 day ‘Learn to Meditate’ workshop at the Dharmapala Buddhist Centre in Fremantle accompanied by my ever so supportive Mum!

An avid Wellness devotee, I was well aware of the numerous benefits of mediation but required the 1-0-1 on ‘how to’ meditate. Being a visual learner by nature led me to seek out a local facilitated course, rather than ‘googling’ it & sifting my way through the vast array of information available on the net.

The workshop was facilitated by the Resident Teacher who provided an inspiring and entertaining guide to the essential practices of meditation, including stilling of the mind and contemplative meditation. The course provided the basic instructions needed to incorporate and establish a regular meditation practice into busy daily life.

A delicious vegetarian lunch, morning and afternoon tea were provided which consisted of an abundant assortment of fresh, healthy and re-energising foods.

At the end of the workshop I was inspired to make meditation a part of my daily routine. I’m not quite there yet, however writing this review has reignited my mission to do so! Research shows it takes 21 days to form a habit, so my goal for the next 3 weeks is to take 10 minutes out of my day to meditate, reflect and be grateful & make it a natural part of my daily routine long term.

I would definitely recommend attending the course if you’re seeking guided inspiration for your mediation practice or are just interested in finding out more about meditation in general. The centre volunteers were warm & welcoming and did I mention the food was amazing?!

p.s The course would make a great gift for a loved one.

Visit the Dharmapala Buddhist Centre / Meditation in Perth website for more information on the course structure & other courses available.

Review by Jasmin Chipper meditation rookie, busy expert.

Be well,

xoxo

Dr Joe Kosterich

♥ First up, briefly tell us a little bit about yourself!

I am a father, doctor, author, speaker and media commentator and TV presenter. I have a regular spot on 6PR Tuesday mornings after 10am news and publish a weekly newsletter from http://www.drjoe.net.au. In early April I’m doing a series of stories for Today Tonight.

JK Secret Triple Action Booster – RRP $69

♥ Tell us about your daily beauty / wellness routine.

I get 8 hours sleep each night and will catch up on any deficit on the weekend. I eat mainly non processed food, but do not make this a religion. I use the JK Secret Cosmeceutics Triple Action Booster at night. Make sure that I laugh each day. Meditate a few days a week – aiming for everyday. Regular exercise.

♥ What’s the one beauty / wellness treatment you can’t live without? And your favourite place to have it done?

I do like a good back massage at Subiaco Sports Massage Clinic.

♥ Who do you trust with your hair in Perth, and why?

Davilia at Floreat Forum. As a bloke I do value convenience. They are close to home, do a good job, you rarely have to wait long and it is not a rip off.

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♥ Favourite budget or at home beauty / wellness treatment?

Sounds lateral, but meditation helps de-stress so helps wellness and is free. I am not a purist of any one “school” I like the downloaded mediations from Deepak Chopra because they are easy. Davidji who is the head of mediation at Chopra reckons people make it too hard, and the key is slowing the mind with slow breathing. Using a mantra like “so… hum…” helps. The most important thing is to just do it and not get caught up in doing it “right”.

♥ Your four, absolutely cannot live without, favourite products?

1. Brooks running shoes
2. Downloaded meditations from Chopra.com – Ed’s note: I checked these out and they are fantastic!
3. Angry Almond at Subi Markets who sell raw nuts dried fruits and seeds (I make up my own little mix)
4. My home water filter.

♥ Do you have any secret tips you use to keep looking / feeling great?

Another lateral one, but enjoying what you do is vital. You feel and look better when you are happy and content!

♥ What beauty treatment / wellbeing activity would you love to try but haven’t yet? (Due to time, money, scared etc!)

Would like to do one of those one week retreats with massage meditation and juices no phone etc. Finding a whole week is the barrier.

Breaky.

♥ Describe a typical day of eating for you.

Breakfast is two eggs scrambled and a piece of rye toast. Lunch varies. Typically some protein (meat or fish) with salad either by itself or in a roll and some fruit.

Mid afternoon some nuts and seeds and a little dried fruit (mixed up in a glad bag). Dinner varies eg Fish/chicken with veg and potatoes, or a curry with rice or pasta. Use olive oil. Minimise food with “numbers”. A few days a week I will have a small sweet treat and a glass of wine some nights. About 2.5 -3L water through the day.

♥ Describe your fitness routine.

Two days running 6-8 km in 35-45 mins. I have 3 circuits, one is along the coast at City Beach in a loop from home, one is in Bold Park along the Zamia trail and the third is from City Beach down to Floreat Forum and back also in a loop. Two days weights in the gym with a trainer and some stretching.

♥ Do you take part in any alternative therapies or take supplements? If so, discuss.

I take a fish oil as I don’t always get 2.7 serves of fish each week. I take Juice Plus which is a fruit and veg concentrate (again getting the right amount 365 days a year is not always possible) and an antioxidant.

♥ How do you like to relax? What are your favourite ways to de-stress?

Meditation (10 -15 mins) helps. I love to run (or walk) along the beach. The ocean is very calming. Playing with my kids and laughing at stuff (cartoons, comedies) – you cant stress when you laugh.

You can find Dr Joe on Facebook & Twitter.

Any questions & comments please leave them below!

Be well,

xoxo