Explore a career in Natural Health now!
Explore a career in Natural Health now!
In 2022, never have we been more focussed on the importance of all-things-natural. Every day we’re ‘brusseling’ and being experi-lentil with the latest superfoods, trading pasta for zucchini ribbons (well, sometimes…ish). We drink green smoothies, matcha lattes and organic wine. We stretch our bodies, don our active gear and do our avo-cardio. We practice deep breathing and meditate and when we have a health glitch, natural medicine may be our first port of call.
Our thirst for knowledge on nutrition, natural health, mental health and wellness is insatiable and… hold the school bus coz you’re having a light bulb moment, aren’t you?! You’d thrive doing a course in this exponentially expanding industry, and what a time to be having such an epiphany because Open Day at Endeavour College of Natural Health is almost here! Clearly this is destiny and holy shiitake, sign us up already because Endeavour serves up the ‘it girl’ holy grail of natural medicine courses. Plus, it’s the largest private Higher Education provider of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and in this instance, size definitely does matter.
Supporting students with lecturers from the forefront of the complementary medicine industry, cutting edge curricular, and Australia’s most comprehensive choice of natural health degrees, Endeavour is the obvious choice. But what’s not obvious is which area you want to explore most (coz #everything), hence the perfect timing for Open Day to swoop in and help fine-tune your direction. Maybe acupuncture, Chinese medicine, nutrition, lifestyle coaching or massage therapy? Whatever floats your boat, they’ve got it all! So carpe diem and get up close and personal with Endeavour before taking the plunge.
So, what should one expect? Let’s start with a guided tour of the campus and all it has to offer. You can explore the Student Services hub, student areas, teaching areas, break out spaces, and of course the library, where we’re imaging really brainy and health-conscious hotties hanging out. You’ll chew the fat with current students, getting the DL on Endeavour life and chance to ask the big questions, like do they have a local watering hole serving up immunity-building cocktails? Another light bulb moment; maybe you can invent them after studying here, and you were born to walk this path.
An absolute must is a visit to Endeavour’s student clinic. Here you’ll see where students gain practical skills that prepare them for a natural health career when they graduate. And finally, if you’ve already studied or have relevant work experience, connect with a Pathways adviser to see if you’re eligible for credit towards your study!
With course presentations and lecturers on hand, it’s an excellent way to understand more about course content, assessment types and hands-on applications. You can even immerse yourself in interactive demonstrations on the day, including blending your own tea and creating your own wellness bowls! (AMAZE!) Then, have a natter with the Admissions Advisers about your study options and any other admissions related stuff, like which course is right for you, fees, payments, applying and the A to Z of the enrolment process.
Friends and fam are welcome to come with but, being the health-conscious hub of the GC, we would expect nothing less than a solid nod to important Covid-safe protocols, including a max of 2 x tag-alongs per guest, plus social distancing.
So, the message is clear. Register now to explore a huge variety of course options and change your passion into purpose.
Where: Endeavour College of Natural Health – Gold Coast Campus, 105 Scarborough Street, Southport
When: 10am – 12.30pm, Saturday 18th June
Words by Bianca Trathen.
STORY SPONSORED BY ENDEAVOUR COLLEGE OF NATURAL HEALTH.
Owner of Whole Health Studio and alumni of Endeavour College of Natural Health.
Ever considered pursuing a career in natural health? Well, that’s exactly what Tia Miers, owner of Whole Health Studio, did – thanks to Endeavour College of Natural Health.
With six campuses nationally and a range of online offerings, Endeavour College is the largest private Higher Education provider of natural medicine courses in the Southern Hemisphere. And they’re the best at it because it’s all they do (and they’ve been doing it for over 45 years)! Read on to get to know the avid Gold Coast local and her journey to becoming a qualified Naturopath.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I have been a local at the Gold Coast for 8-9 years now! I grew up in North Queensland in a small town called Tannum Sands and moved to the Gold Coast for university.
Tell us a bit about you.
I am a qualified Naturopath and owner of the Whole Health Studio. As a practitioner my focus is on reconnecting my patients with their bodies. I do so by utilising up-to-date research, lab testing and evidence based naturopathic medicine, including individualised herbal tonics and compounds. Being based on the Gold Coast my physical reach is quite small, so I have started developing my own supplement range that address many of the common ailments I see presenting in my clinic every week. In my personal time away from the studio I am usually taking my dog Wilma for a walk or spending time at the beach!
For those who aren’t aware, what exactly is Naturopathy?
Naturopaths are experts in whole health and wellbeing, and provide evidence based natural health care that is effective, safe and meaningful to their clients. Through an in-depth understanding of human bioscience, emotional and social factors, and as prescribers of natural medicine, Naturopaths are able to help prevent disease, provide optimal health and wellbeing and relief of symptoms by treating the whole person and the root causes of disease.
What initially drew you towards perusing a career as a Naturopath?
I have always loved science and understanding how the body works. I initially started studying nursing, however I wasn’t agreeing with time scheduled medication and what patients were being fed in hospital. I was personally seeing a Naturopath for treatment of my Endometriosis and acne and was amazed at the benefits I experienced. I then transferred to Endeavour College where I completed a Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy).
How did you go about getting qualified?
I completed a Bachelor of Health Science at Endeavour College of Natural Health. Coming from a large university where I was studying nursing I loved the holistic learning environment that Endeavour offered. The classes were smaller which I personally found more engaging. Endeavour also provides the flexibility to study some subjects online, lectures can be accessed at any time of the day, this was really beneficial for work and personal commitments.
Explain to us what study looked like for you?
I studied full time at Endeavour College, contact hours were 24 hours per week. I spent A LOT of time at the library studying, I personally found it easier to stay focused on study at the campus rather than in my home environment. The library also offers great resources that help for assignments and exam study!
How has Endeavour College contributed to your career success?
The Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy) contains more than 40% clinical or practical subjects, this has contributed significantly to my career success. The Endeavour Wellness Clinic puts theory into practice. As a student I completed practical hours in the public-facing clinic, this prepared me to enter the industry with skills, experience and confidence.
The Natural Health industry has recently become a thriving sector in recent years, why do you think there is now a stronger demand than ever before for professionals with expertise in these fields?
Yes! Absolutely, the natural health industry is growing so quickly and there are so many career opportunities. Many Naturopaths work independently in private practice, setting their own hours and managing their own businesses. They also regularly write for journals or work for natural product companies formulating new products, conducting literature research and providing product support.
Why should someone, who has never been to see a Natural Health professional, consider visiting one?
Having a consultation with a Naturopath goes for a duration of approximately 60 minutes, allowing the practitioner to treat the root cause rather than providing symptomatic relief.
How rewarding is it helping people on a daily basis?
It is so rewarding helping people on a daily basis. My work is so fulfilling and I look forward to coming to work every day. The results that I get in my patients’ health with my clinical practice puts the biggest smile on my face. It is so rewarding helping someone with their fertility so they don’t have to go down the path of IVF. Or improving someone’s skin/clearing their acne and improving their confidence. Follow me here for more insights into my Whole Health Studio practice.
What is some advice you would give people looking at perusing a career in Natural Health?
It will be the best thing you do!! Find a job you love and you will never have to work again!
What are your Gold Coast favourites…
Café: Next Door Espresso Burleigh, they have the best avo on toast!
Coffee spot: Canvas coffee house
Restaurant: Etsu! I LOVE Japanese food.
How do you choose to spend your days off?
I love spending time outdoors. On my days off I am usually at the beach or going for a hike! On Saturday mornings I head to my local farmers markets to get stocked up of fruits/veggies for the week and grab a coffee!
Endeavour College of Natural Health offer Bachelor of Health Science degrees in Naturopathy, Nutritional and Dietetic Medicine, Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture Therapies, as well as a Diploma of Health Science, Diploma of Health Science (Chinese Remedial Massage), Diploma of Remedial Massage (HLT52015) and Certificate IV in Massage Therapy (HLT42015), as well as a range of online short courses.
You too can turn your passion into your purpose at Endeavour College of Natural Health. Discover more.
STORY SPONSORED BY ENDEAVOUR COLLEGE OF NATURAL HEALTH.
Rest, laugh, eat, repeat.
No matter how you’re feeling right now or what you’re current situation is, there’s no doubt we can all use a little bit more health and happiness in our lives. So we’ve collected the five top tips to ensure your week is that little bit healthier from now on in. Take care of yourselves Gold Coasters.
Get up an hour earlier
It doesn’t seem like much but you’d be surprised how much you can fit into an hour. There’s nothing worse for your brain than waking up, going to work, going home, watching TV and going back to bed – where’s the relaxation? Instead of reaching straight for your phone the minute you wake up, roll straight out of bed and into some sort of exercise or stretching routine, play with the dog, cook yourself a healthy breakfast and ease into your day. You’ll soon see that starting your morning in a slower, more relaxed way sets the tone for the rest of your day.
Plan your meals
It sounds a little bit like something your Nanna would do but trust us, planning your meals will make life a million times simpler and healthier. Everyone knows what happens when you go to the supermarket after work, usually on an empty stomach and with very little willpower – you end up with an entrée of cheese and biccies followed by garlic bread and a big old bowl of spaghetti bolognaise. Delicious sure, but not so much on the healthy side. Planning allows you to choose healthy options, buy everything you need at once and not be tempted by the lure of excessive carbs.
Sleep enough
Ahh the ever elusive shut eye. It’s highly likely you aren’t getting enough of it what with work, exercising, eating and those all-important Netflix binges taking up so much of your time. Something’s gotta give though and usually that thing is your health, or your sanity. They say you need at least eight hours but in truth, you need as much as you need. If you’re tired, sleep more, it’s imperative to both your mental and physical health (and the people who have to put up with you). If you need a nap through the day, go for it, this is your permission slip.
Take time out
You’ve been hearing people bang on about the miraculous benefits of meditation for awhile now and those people aren’t lying. It is one of the best ways to calm your mind, find out the answers to life’s big questions and generally just take time out from the chaos of day to day life. Seems overwhelming though right? Sitting down in silence and trying not to think. It can be simple though, start with five minutes of deep breathing and don’t be discouraged if your mind wanders, just stay there and enjoy the serenity, before you know it you’ll crave that time out.
Move your body
Although it’s easier said than done to get up off the couch when it’s cold out, the benefits are about three million fold. Even if you just go for a short walk around the block or do some easy stretching, your body will absolutely thank you. There are plenty of online workouts and yoga classes to choose from too so you don’t need to spend money on exercising to see the benefits. Morning is probably the best time of day to move, it’ll make you feel good all day but anytime will do. You’ll be happy you did.
Words by Kirra Smith
More yum, less willpower.
Hands up if you’re in a toxic relationship with Uber Eats? You want to bite that hand feeding you, even though, technically, that hand is yours. So maybe this is a self-restraint issue? Don’t worry, this isn’t a therapy session- just a list of healthy takeaways that don’t require any restraint at all! Because, well, they’re healthy, obviously?
Here’s your cheat sheet for the best healthy takeaway eats on the Gold Coast.
As wholesome as it gets, Dalas Kitchen is a gourmet salad bar with two Gold Coast locations, online delivery and catering. They’re known for the most deluxe salads, but also serve sangas (on house-made focaccia), bagels and sodas too! Ran out of time to meal prep? Just order’ Dalas At Your Desk’ via their website!
Our pick: the vegan and dairy-free Bangin’ Cauli’ with panko-crusted roasted cauliflower, Asian slaw, mint, coriander, shallots, crushed peanuts and a creamy maple sriracha dressing!
Where: 2247 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach and 6 Fifth Avenue, Palm Beach
Voted Gold Coast’s best healthy vegan eats, Govindas is not just a restaurant, but a mission. They’re a non-profit serving up feel-good, budget-friendly, and ethically made vegetarian fare. Every dish is as soul-nourishing as the next, with curries, salads, sides and more. They also run specials daily!
Our pick: Thursday’s Shepherd’s Pie– a classic!
Where: 20 James St, Burleigh Heads and 72 Griffith St, Coolangatta
This place is a plant-based paradise; every dish is a visual and nutritional masterpiece. If you’re yet to experience the best of vegan cuisine, let Cardamon Pod be your gateway! It’s as decadent and exciting as vegan dishes come- from raw cakes to globally inspired mains.
Our pick: Vegan Madras Chicken Tacos with tamarind popcorn ‘chicken’, bhuja, BBQ corn chat salsa, madras mayo and jalapeño cheese pakoras.
Where: 3/3 Brolga Ave, Brickworks Ferry Road, Southport
Quick, healthy and tasty- Just Fresh Made is your go-to for mouthwatering salads, spuds, wraps and fresh juices. Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing or a little heartier, Just Fresh Made has you covered every day of the week.
Our pick: Classic Fresh Veg Spud loaded with your choice of protein, smashed avo, tomato salsa, kale mix, sour cream and herb butter.
Where: Shop 1/84 Scarborough Street, Southport
They’re the Asian-inspired salad bar shaking up the fast-food game with zingy Asian bowls and rolls full of flavour and crunch. Banana Blossom is an East Coast favourite, serving in locations from the Sunny Coast to Bondi Beach. Their salads, rice bowls, and rice paper rolls are a fast, healthy and flavourful way to get your takeaway fix.
Our pick: Satay Salad with chicken, tofu or beef, plus pineapple, rice noodles, bean sprouts and a mouthwatering Malay-style dressing.
Where: Shop E117 Oracle East 6 Charles Ave, Broadbeach
Come for the poke, stay for the roti wraps and smoothie bowls. This Mermaid Beach gem dishes up generous, customisable bowls with all the toppings your taste buds could desire. They offer plenty of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options to suit all!
Our pick: Nacho Bowl with chilli con carne, smoked sour cream, guac, habanero jam, and crunchy wonton chips.
Where: 2375 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Plant-based yum cha? What about take-home banquet packs?! Hell yeah! This little vegan restaurant in Mermaid Beach serves up mind-blowing Asian yum cha and meals that are so damn good it’s earned them a 92% recommendation on Facebook! This place is a not-to-miss, with insane hot pots, soups and noodles, and even vegan ‘meat’ and ‘seafood’ dishes.
Our pick: Any noodle dish (seriously, you can’t go wrong)- but don’t skip the entrees.
Where: 90 Market St, Mermaid Waters
Three words, well, dishes; donburi, okonomiyaki and sushi. Does healthy takeaway get much better than Japanese soul food? Okazu does it best- fast, fresh and in two locations. They also do poke bowls, burgers, bento combo meals and plenty of options for the kiddies.
Our pick: Teriyaki Beef Okonomiyaki with a side of miso soup.
Where: 1/2223 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach and 90 Markeri St Mermaid Waters
Don’t let the same put you off because this famed franchise is single-handedly making salads great again! They taste so damn good you forget you’re getting your entire daily intake of veg in one bowl! Build your own or pick from a menu of stacked bowls.
Our pick: The O.G. Chicken with poached chicken, kale, beets, crispy shallots, seaweed salad and roasted sesame dressing.
Where: Soul Boardwalk Shop T120B/4 Esplanade Surfers Paradise, Shop/4252 Robina Town Centre Dr, Robina and 2 James Street Burleigh Heads, 2245 Gold Coast Hwy, Mermaid Beach
Your servo snack stop just got a serious glow-up. Fox’s Pantry is a gourmet grocer/café hybrid (also a servo) serving fresh and fab whole eats, including sandwiches, salads, soups and more. Whether you follow a vegan, gluten free, dairy free or, keto lifestyle or diet….they have something ya!
Our pick: whatever you get, just don’t leave without a smoothie!
Where: 468 Golden Four Drive, Tugun
This Currumbin spot is a treasure trove of health-conscious delights. While catering is their main gig, their in-house and takeaway eats are at the next level. They use only the highest quality ingredients to make only the best-tasting eats that will fill your belly and warm your heart.
Our pick: the Organic Handcrafted Tofu Burger
Where: Shop 2 – 30 Currumbin Creek Rd, Currumbin
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
