LISTEN: Raising confident girls, belly dancing and wellness retreats

Catch the latest episode of The House of Wellness with Chemist Warehouse on The Breeze where Mel Homer is joined by Parenting Place’s Sheridan Eketone, belly dance instructor Tais Derbasova, Aro Ha Wellness Retreats co-founder Damaian Chaparro, Go Healthy Nutrition Specialist and Naturopath Michelle Irving, and resident Chemist Warehouse pharmacist Piyara Perera. 

Featured Guest: Sheridan Eketone

Parenting coach and mother of four Sheridan Eketone from Parenting Place kicks the episode off by offering a reassuring perspective on modern parenting. 

She highlights the importance of shifting away from the “seen and not heard” mentality and instead focusing on raising well-rounded individuals who are encouraged to be critical thinkers.

When discussing the differences in raising boys versus girls, Sheridan emphasises the need for parents to foster connection and communication with their daughters, especially during the teen years when faced with the pressures of social media. 

Eketone’s advice is to listen more and fix less. She explains that while we often have a long list of life lessons to share, sometimes kids just need us to listen. 

Featured Guest: Tais Derbasova

Earlier in the week Mel got a taste of belly dancing with Tais Derbasova, an instructor who brings joy, empowerment and fitness together in her classes

Mel recounts her belly dancing lesson, whilst Tais, originally from Russia, shares her journey from a corporate job to finding personal fulfillment through dance. 

Tais explains that belly dancing is for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. She encourages anyone who is looking for low impact exercise and support from the female community to come and give it a go.

Featured Guest: Damian Chaparro

Damian Chaparro, co-founder of Aro Ha Retreats shares how the wellness haven in Glenorchy came to life after he and his business partner spent six months exploring New Zealand. 

Opening in 2014, Aro Ha now offers six and seven day wellness adventures that focus on yoga, mindfulness, plant-based meals and a range of well-being practices.

Damian reflects on the growing cultural shift toward mindful living whereby practices like yoga and meditation once seen as ‘out there’ are now embraced by many. 

Resident Pharmacist: Piyara Perera

This week, Piyara and Mel discuss the importance of focusing on health rather than appearance, particularly for young girls who are often subjected to societal pressures. 

Piyara advises prioritising a balanced diet over reliance on supplements and underscores the value of wellness from the inside out and health beyond appearance.

Featured Product: Go Healthy MENO Support

Go Healthy Nutrition Specialist and Naturopath Michelle Irving joined Mel to talk about Go Healthy MENO SUPPORT, a product designed for females needing support with menopause associated changes. 

GO MENO support uses a blend of herbs with soybean isoflavones to support hormonal health, balance temperature and mood, support sleep and is vegetarian friendly. 

Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Dietary supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet. GO Healthy, Auckland.

Listen to the full episode up top and tune in next Sunday from 8am for The House of Wellness on The Breeze.