Move, Breathe, Connect: Wellbeing on the Domino Trail in Trentham

In a world that often feels fast-paced and overwhelming, sometimes the best remedy is simple: step outside, move your body, and reconnect with nature. The Domino Trail in Trentham offered me just that—a peaceful, tree-lined escape where walking, cycling, and spending time with friends and loved ones, can do wonders for your mental and physical wellbeing.

My Winter Walk Experience

I recently walked the Domino Trail on a crisp sunny winter morning. The sun was shining through the trees, the air was fresh, and the tranquillity of the Australian bush was deeply calming. It was one of those walks where you feel your shoulders drop, your breath slow, and your thoughts settle.

The Power of Movement in Nature

The Domino Trail is a gentle, well-maintained track that follows the old railway line between Trentham and Lyonville. Surrounded by tall eucalypts and native bushland, it’s the kind of place where stress seems to melt away with every step.

Whether you’re walking or cycling, the physical movement gets your blood flowing, boosts endorphins, and helps clear your mind. The flat terrain makes it accessible for all fitness levels, so you can go at your own pace—no pressure, just presence.

Share the Experience

One of the best parts of the Domino Trail is how versatile it is. It’s a perfect outing for:

- Friends and loved ones catching up over a walk
- Families with children exploring nature
- Couples enjoying a peaceful moment together
- Solo walkers and dog owners seeking quiet reflection and gentle physical movement

Whether you’re chatting, laughing, or simply walking side by side, the trail creates space for connection and shared wellbeing.

Fitness for You and Your Dog

Bringing your dog along adds another layer of joy and is a great motivator for keeping fit. Dogs thrive on outdoor adventures, and watching them explore with curiosity and excitement is a mood booster in itself. Their enthusiasm is beautiful to witness, and walking together strengthens your bond while giving both of you a healthy dose of exercise.

Even on-leash, the trail offers plenty of sensory stimulation for your pup—new smells, sights, and sounds that keep them engaged and happy.

Why Walking in Nature Matters

Spending time in nature has proven benefits:

- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Improves mood and mental clarity
- Boosts cardiovascular health
- Enhances sleep and energy levels
- Strengthens your connection with others
- Connects you to natural surroundings

The Domino Trail offers all of this in one beautiful, accessible package.

Make a Day of It

After your walk or ride, the town of Trentham has plenty to offer:

- Enjoy a coffee or meal at a local café
- Pick up supplies at the general store
- Relax with a picnic in nearby parklands
- Park at the Historic Railway Station and walk to the left to join the Domino Trail

My Overall Experience

For me, the Domino Trail wasn’t just a path through the bush—it was a pathway to better health, a deeper connection with myself, and a chance to calm my mind. Whether you’re walking, cycling, or simply soaking in the scenery with your family, your friends and even pooch, this trail invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and feel good.

So, lace up, leash up, and let nature do its magic.

Kirsty

Life Enthusiast & Well Above Being Founder

10/08/202511/08/2025

A Deep Dive into Setting Goals to Achieve the Life You Desire

From Dreamer to Doer: A Deep Dive into Setting Goals to Achieve the Life You Desire

Do you ever feel stuck staring at a distant dream, wondering how you’ll ever get there? The truth is, dreams without direction are just wishes. The real magic happens when you translate those dreams into goals—and then take inspired action.

Goal setting isn’t just a productivity hack. It’s a profound tool for shaping your identity, unlocking your potential, and building the kind of life that brings you joy, purpose, and fulfillment. Whether it’s personal growth, health, career, creativity, or community involvement—goals give you the power to decide what your future looks like.

Why Set with Goals?

Setting goals gives you clarity. Instead of being guided by distractions, uncertainty, or other people’s expectations, you chart your own course. Goals can help you:
• Define your purpose and passions
• Build commitment and stay motivated
• Stay focused when life gets noisy
• Unlock your inner potential and improve your self-confidence
• Get in touch with who you really are and what you want
By acknowledging your dreams and turning them into clear goals, you set the stage for transformation. You become the architect of your ideal life.

Craft Your Personal Vision

Before diving into goals, take time to visualise your future in rich, vibrant detail.

Imagine your life in 10 years. Where are you? What are you doing? Who are you surrounded by? Make sure you take the time to write down what you see and how you see yourself in 10 years.
Take the 10 years and break it down. What do the next 5 years look like? Write this down.
Then work to the stage and steps in 1 year, then next year. How does this break down? What do you see? What have you noted for this goal?
Don’t filter or censor—dream boldly and write it all down, everything, go wild!
Make this vision visual: Create a vision board with inspiring images, colours, words, and symbols that reflect your dreams. Place this visual somewhere you’ll see it daily such as the fridge, your desk, on your phone background. You name it – everywhere.
This vision becomes your compass, constantly reminding you what you’re working toward.

Set and Document Your Goals

Once your long-term vision is clear, start defining actionable goals across various areas of your life:

Life Area	Examples
Personal Life	Build stronger relationships, learn a musical instrument, read more
Health	Exercise times each week, improve sleep habits
Career	Pursue a promotion, build a side hustle
Finances	Save for something you desire, pay off debt
Spirituality	Practice meditation, read philosophy
Creativity	Paint, draw, write a blog
Social/Community	Volunteer monthly, join a local group
Personal Growth	Read 10 books each year, learn a new language

Make your goals specific: what you’ll do, and by when
Make them personal: based on your passion, not someone else’s plan
Write them down: it adds clarity and accountability. A written goal becomes a dream with a deadline

Break Things Down

Feeling overwhelmed? That’s a sign your goal needs mini-goals.

Chunk big goals into smaller, achievable steps
Track each step so you can see and celebrate progress
Create rituals: time-block your efforts into daily or weekly routines

Even the boldest ambitions become reachable when you tackle them in bite-sized portions.

Keep Your Goals Front and Centre

Visibility breeds consistency:

Pin them up in your diary or planner
Make your goal the background on your phone or laptop
Stick reminders on your fridge or mirror
Create fun notifications that pop up daily

Make it impossible to forget what you’re working toward.

Check In, Re-Evaluate and Adapt

Life changes. So do goals. Ask yourself:

Is this still relevant to what I want?
Am I making progress?
Do I need to shift direction?

Don’t be afraid to let go of goals that no longer align. And when you hit a milestone—pause, acknowledge your growth, and celebrate! Gratitude feeds motivation.

Prepare For Possible Challenges

Things won’t always go to plan. So be ready to:

Identify likely obstacles in advance
Develop your “Plan B” strategies
Think creatively when problems arise
Remain calm and flexible when things shift unexpectedly

Sometimes you’ll have to re-route to reach your destination—but you’ll still get there.

Learn From Others and Seek Support

You’re not alone. Be inspired by others:

Ask people you admire how they reached their goals
Find a goal buddy—share your plans and encourage each other
Join communities or groups with similar interests
Tap into books, podcasts, or mentors to grow

Collect insights, avoid pitfalls, and celebrate shared progress.

Protect Your Motivation

Guard your dreams against negativity:

Tune out unsolicited criticism—especially from those who don’t understand your path
Embrace patience: great things take time
Stay grounded when life throws curveballs
Find joy in the journey, not just the destination

Start Now and Stay Consistent

There’s no perfect time. There’s now.

Begin with small actions
Block out time—even if it’s just 15 minutes a day
Turn effort into habit by committing for 30 days
If you fall off track—no guilt, just restart

Consistency beats intensity. Rituals become habits, and habits create results.

My Final Thought: The Time Is Now

The longer you wait, the louder the voice of doubt becomes. Don’t waste time waiting for permission or the right moment. Claim it. Dream boldly, set your path, and take the first step today. Enjoy the ups, the downs, the breakthroughs and the lessons to build a life that lights you up from the inside out.

Kirsty

Life Enthusiast & Well Above Being Founder

01/08/202501/08/2025

The Benefits of Sauna

What I Found After 2 Weeks of Using My Gym Sauna

Having always wanted my own sauna, set up at home ready to use whenever I feel like it, felt like a far off and expensive dream. Then I discovered that the gym in my office building offered an infra-red sauna and I was able to book and use it whenever I want.

Excited to give it a try, I booked myself in to a two-week trial and made my visits during my lunch break, on the days when time permitted.

Once I stepped into the inviting haven available just for me, it felt like pressing a reset button for my mind and body and beyond the immediate bliss, I found a treasure trove of lasting benefits that I’m excited to share with you.

I Detoxed

Sweating being one of the body’s natural ways of flushing out toxins, during my sauna sessions, the intense heat induced deep sweating, helping to remove harmful substances from my body. Although I felt pretty good straight up, it was after a few times of using the sauna that I saw the real difference. My face had a great glow that was really noticeable, so much so that I received compliments from my co-workers.

My Circulation Improved

I found out that the heat from the sauna causes blood vessels to dilate, and this enhances blood flow which I found improves circulation and can help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health. So, although not as hard as a HIT circuit, it did feel like I gave my heart a gentle workout.

My Muscles Relaxed

I have a reasonably active lifestyle and if I’m not at yoga, I’m doing a boxing circuit so for me, the sauna offered relief from muscle pain and stiffness. The heat penetrated deep into my muscle tissue, alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and aiding in a quicker recovery after my workouts.

I Glowed

After a few sessions of regular sauna use, I experienced improved skin quality as my pores were cleansed and my skin took on a satisfying healthy glow. With the increased blood circulation, more nutrients were brought to the skin, enhancing the overall appearance and health of my complexion.

I Got to Down Tools & De-Stress

The calm, peaceful environment of the sauna provided a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of my daily work demands. The heat helped to relax both my body and my mind, releasing endorphins, my body’s natural feel-good chemicals which are known to help reduce stress levels. The added benefit was the Bluetooth connection where I could connect to Spotify and listen to some relaxing sounds or if the mood took me, an interesting podcast.

I Slept Better

During the time of my regular sauna use, I experienced deeper, more restful sleep. The relaxation induced by each sauna session helped to prepare my body for a good night’s rest, making it easier to fall asleep, stay asleep and waking up feeling refreshed.

My Thinking Was Clearer

Getting back to work after my sauna sessions, I felt more relaxed and mentally focused. The endorphins released during my sessions helped improve my mood and my concentration, and I felt more alert and focused afterwards.

I Saved Money

Having a shared sauna available that I could book, saved me a significant amount of money and avoided having to find a space in my home where it could be set up. There may be some home rental businesses if your local gym or wellness centre doesn’t have a sauna available, and if they do, there may be a well discounted trial offer available that you can take advantage of, to see if sauna sessions are for you.

Incorporating regular sauna sessions into my wellness routine proved to be not just a lovely little luxury but a wise investment into my health. From the detoxification, improved circulation to stress reduction and enhanced mental clarity, I found the benefits of sauna use to be numerous and profound.

So, the next time you find yourself seeking a little bit of self-care, remember that the answer might be as simple as stepping into a warm, welcoming sauna.

Like what you see? Stay connected with Well Above Being and as soon as news lands, we’ll make sure that you’re notified. info@wellabovebeing.au

24/09/202430/07/2025

Unlocking Your Best Self

A Journey to Feeling Good

Imagine waking up each morning with a sense of purpose and a smile on your face. Feeling good about yourself isn’t just a fleeting emotion; it’s a state of being that nurtures your well-being and empowers you to navigate life with confidence and resilience. Whether you’re looking to boost your self-esteem or seeking a more positive outlook, here are some actionable steps to help you embrace and celebrate your best self.

Be Your Own Bestie:

Picture this, you’re comforting a dear friend who’s had a rough day. You offer them kindness, understanding, and a shoulder to lean on. Now, imagine turning that same compassion inward. Acknowledge your strengths and weaknesses without harsh judgment. Understand that we all make mistakes and experiences setbacks, it’s part of being human.

Throw Yourself a Mini Party:

Do you remember the last time you accomplished something significant? Maybe it was completing a challenging project at work, learning a new skill, or simply getting through a tough day. Take a moment to bask in that feeling of achievement. Reflecting on your successes, big or small, can boost your self-esteem and motivate you to set new goals.

Count Your Blessings, Not Sheep:

Think about the little things that bring you joy, such as a warm cup of coffee, a kind word from a friend, or the beauty of a sunset. Gratitude is a powerful tool for cultivating positivity and self-assurance. Keeping a gratitude journal can help you stay focused on the positives and shift your mindset toward optimism.

Dream Big by Starting Small:

Imagine setting out on a journey with a clear destination in mind. Setting and achieving goals that align with your values and aspirations can significantly enhance your sense of self-worth. Break larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks and celebrate each milestone along the way. This not only boosts your confidence but also reinforces your belief in your ability to succeed.

Treat Yourself Like Royalty:

Think of self-care as recharging your batteries. Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is essential for feeling good about yourself. Make self-care a priority by getting enough rest, eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. When you prioritise your needs, you’re better equipped to handle life’s challenges and maintain a positive self-image.

Find Your Cheer Squad:

Imagine being surrounded by a supportive circle of friends and family who uplift and encourage you. The people you surround yourself with can have a significant impact on how you feel about yourself. Seek out those who bring positivity into your life and limit your exposure to negativity, whether it’s through social media, news, or toxic relationships.

Tame Your Inner Critic:

Picture yourself standing up to a bully, only this time, the bully is your own negative self-talk. Pay attention to your inner dialogue and challenge any negative thoughts or self-doubt. Replace self-criticism with affirmations and positive self-talk. Remind yourself of your strengths, past successes, and resilience in overcoming challenges. Over time, practicing positive self-talk can help you build a more compassionate and confident self-perception.

Do What Makes Your Heart Sing:

Think about the activities that make you lose track of time, because you’re so immersed in them. Doing things that bring you joy and fulfillment can significantly contribute to your overall sense of well-being. Whether it’s pursuing a hobby, volunteering for a cause you care about, or spending time in nature, prioritise activities that nourish your soul and make you feel alive.

Reach Out For a Helping Hand:

If feelings of low self-esteem or self-doubt persist despite your efforts, consider seeking support from a therapist or counsellor. Professional guidance can provide you with tools and strategies to explore underlying issues, build resilience, and develop a healthier self-image.

Flaunt Your Fabulousness:

Finally, remember that your worth is not determined by external achievements or others’ opinions. Embrace your uniqueness such as your talents, quirks, and individuality. Accept yourself fully, flaws and all, and recognise that you are worthy of love, respect, and happiness simply because you are you. Feeling good about yourself is like embarking on a grand adventure. It takes patience, self-awareness, and a whole lot of nurturing. By being your own bestie, throwing yourself mini parties, and treating yourself like royalty, you can cultivate a positive self-image and embrace your fabulous self with confidence and flair. Get on it today by taking small, joyful steps towards a healthier, more fulfilling relationship with yourself, you totally deserve it.

Like what you see? You can stay connected with Well Above Being and as soon as news lands, you’ll be notified.

24/09/202410/03/2025

The Benefits of Physical Movement

Find great ways to enhance your health and wellbeing

Do you feel that in today’s fast-paced world, finding time for regular physical activity can often be a real challenge? Incorporating daily movement into your life is a fantastic way to receive many benefits that go beyond just physical fitness. Whether you enjoy hitting the gym, practicing yoga, or engaging in Tai Chi, each form of exercise will contribute uniquely to your overall health and wellbeing. There’s some information below that explores why making daily movement a priority can significantly enhance your quality of life.

The Physical Benefits:

Get Strong and Build Physical Endurance – Regular gym workouts, whether through weightlifting, resistance training, or cardiovascular exercises, can help build muscle strength and improve endurance. Strong muscles support better posture and joint health, all whilst reducing the risk of injuries.

Gain Flexibility and Balance – Activities like yoga and Tai Chi are a great way to focus on flexibility, stretching, and balance. These exercises are a great way to enhance joint mobility and can also improve coordination and stability, which is crucial for maintaining independence and preventing falls as we age.

Care For Your Cardiovascular Health – Get into aerobic exercises such as running, swimming, or cycling and elevate your heart rate to improve cardiovascular health. These exercise types strengthen the heart muscle, lower blood pressure, and enhance circulation and can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Your Mental and Emotional Wellbeing:

Manage Stress Relief – Physical movement and activity triggers the release of endorphins, your body’s natural mood elevators, which help to reduce stress and anxiety. Gym workouts, boxing fitness, yoga, and Tai Chi can help to promote relaxation and improve your mental clarity, helping you manage whatever challenges you face daily, more effectively.

Enhance Your Mood – Regular movement has been shown to alleviate symptoms of depression and boost overall mood. Mindfulness practices in yoga and Tai Chi, coupled with the rhythmic breathing techniques, will help you achieve a sense of calm and emotional balance.

Develop Your Cognitive Function – Physical exercise has a positive impact on cognitive function and brain health. Working to enhance memory, concentration, and mental alertness. Both aerobic exercise and mind-body practices like Tai Chi stimulate neuroplasticity, our brain’s ability to form those all important new neural connections.

Long-Term Health Benefits:

Manage Your Weight to Stay Well – Incorporating daily movement into your routine helps maintain a healthy weight by burning calories and increasing your metabolism. Consistent physical activity, combined with a balanced diet, supports sustainable weight loss and weight maintenance.

Prevent Chronic Disease – Regular exercise plays a crucial role in preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis, and certain cancers. It improves insulin sensitivity, strengthens bones, and boosts immune function, enhancing your overall resilience and longevity.

Maintain or Improve Your Quality of Sleep – Engaging in physical activity promotes better sleep quality and the duration of rest. Helping to regulate circadian rhythms and reducing symptoms of insomnia, good sleep quality allows for deeper, more restorative sleep.

Social Engagement and Community:

Have Fun with Group Fitness – Join in with some fun gym classes or mindful yoga sessions and help foster social connections and develop your part in community. Group fitness provides opportunities to meet like-minded individuals, share experiences, and create supportive relationships.

Work on Your Mind-Body Connection – Practices like yoga and Tai Chi emphasise mindfulness and self-awareness. They encourage a deeper connection between the body, mind, and spirit whilst promoting holistic wellbeing and inner harmony.

Create Lifelong Habits – Cultivating a habit of daily movement helps to set a foundation for lifelong health and vitality. Whether through gym workouts, yoga, Tai Chi, or other activities, consistent exercise becomes a rewarding part of your lifestyle, enhancing your overall quality of life.

Imagine feeling stronger, happier and more connected by incorporating daily movement into your life. It’s not just about your physical fitness, it’s a complete approach to enhancing your health, wellbeing, and overall happiness. Whether you prefer the intensity of gym workouts, the mindfulness of yoga, or the gracefulness of Tai Chi, every form of exercise offers unique benefits that contribute to you experiencing a healthier, more fulfilling life. By prioritising regular physical activity, you’re investing in yourself, and working to improve both your present and future wellbeing.

Now is a great time to commit yourself to move daily, embrace the joy that comes with physical activity, and reap the rewards of a healthier, happier you.

To find out more about how to practise self-care and embrace the best version of you, subscribe to Well Above Being and receive notifications when new articles, information and advice become available.

23/09/202410/03/2025

Tips For Eating Well On Your Travels

Traveling is an exciting adventure that often involves experiencing new places, cultures, and cuisines. While indulging in local delicacies is part of the fun, maintaining a balanced diet can sometimes be challenging. With a bit of planning and mindfulness, it’s not too hard to eat healthily while on the move. Below are some practical tips to help you enjoy nutritious meals and snacks during your travels.

Plan Ahead:

Before you set off, take a moment to think about your meals. Pack some healthy snacks, preferably those that don’t require refridgeration, such as nuts, dried fruits, or rice snacks. These can be lifesavers during long flights or road trips when healthy food choices might be limited.

Keep Hydrated:

It’s easy to forget to drink enough water when you’re busy exploring and staying hydrated is crucial while travelling, especially if you’re spending long hours in transit or exploring under the sun. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it whenever you can (many airports have refill stations). It may also be beneficial to have an hydration accelerator (such as Hydralyte tablets) if you’re someone who feels a high degree of dehydration. Staying hydrated can help to keep your energy levels up and prevent overeating.

Choose Wisely:

When dining out, look for menu options that include plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications, like dressing on the side or grilled instead of fried options.

Practice Portion Control:

It’s easy to overindulge while enjoying your travels, so practice mindful eating and portion control. Choose smaller portions or share meals with travel companions to enjoy a variety of dishes without overeating. Be mindful of how you’re thinking, listening and conversing whilst eating, and remember to focus your thoughts on slowly savouring your meal. It’s a good idea to listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues to avoid unnecessary snacking.

Consider Accommodation with a Kitchen:

If your travel plans allow, choose accommodation that offers kitchen facilities such as holiday rentals, Airbnb, or extended stay hotels. This gives you the flexibility to prepare simple meals using fresh ingredients from local markets or grocery stores, ensuring you have control over what delicious and locally sourced food you eat.

Embrace the Local Flavors:

Part of the joy of traveling is trying new foods. Enjoy local delicacies in moderation and balance them with healthier choices throughout the day. For example, if you have a rich, indulgent meal for lunch, opt for a lighter dinner.

Research Local Cuisine in Advance:

Before you arrive at your destination, take some time to research the local cuisine and identify food options that align with your dietary preferences or restrictions. Look for restaurants or eateries that offer fresh salads, grilled proteins, or vegetable-based dishes. Apps like TripAdvisor or Yelp can be valuable resources for finding healthy dining options.

Be Mindful of Food Safety:

Pay attention to food safety practices, especially when traveling to destinations with different hygiene standards. Choose reputable establishments for meals, avoid consuming raw or undercooked foods that may pose health risks, and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.

Prioritise Fruits and Vegies:

When dining out or grabbing meals on the go, make it a point to include vegetables and fruits in your selections. Opt for salads, vegetable soups, or side dishes that incorporate a variety of colourful vegetables. Fruits make excellent snacks and great dessert options, providing natural sweetness and many essential nutrients.

Be Mindful of Your Hunger:

Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. It’s easy to overeat when you’re surrounded by delicious food, but listening to your body can help you enjoy your meals without feeling uncomfortably full.

Stay Active:

Incorporate physical activity into your travel plans. Maintaining physical activity while traveling helps support overall wellbeing, enhances your metabolism and energy levels. Walking tours, hiking, or even a morning jog can help balance out the extra calories and keep you feeling energised.

Visit Local Markets:

Exploring community markets can be a fun way to find fresh, healthy foods. Pick up some fruits, vegetables, and other local produce to enjoy as snacks or to prepare simple meals if you have access to a kitchen.

Don’t Forget to Treat Yourself:

Don’t forget that it’s okay to treat yourself! Indulging in local specialties and trying new foods is a great part of the travel experience. Allow yourself to enjoy these foods in moderation while balancing them with healthier choices throughout your trip. Savouring unique flavours and culinary experiences adds to the richness of your travel memories.

Listen to Your Body:

Above all, listen to your body’s cues and honour your hunger and fullness signals. Pay attention to how different foods make you feel, both physically and mentally. Eating intuitively allows you to enjoy your travel experiences while maintaining a healthy relationship with food.

Eating healthy while traveling is achievable with a bit of planning, flexibility, and mindful thinking. By packing nutritious snacks, exploring local cuisine thoughtfully, staying hydrated, and incorporating physical activity into your itinerary, you can nourish your body and enjoy your travels to the fullest. Remember, the key is to strike a balance between enjoying new culinary experiences and maintaining your overall health and wellbeing.

Keep up to date on all things self-care and wellbeing at our Well Above Being page for great food, travel, fitness and wellbeing tips.