
From luxury to low cost: The best gifts to buy yourself
If there is one thing that Parks and Recreation got right, it was popularising the idea of "Treat Yo Self." Research has shown that practising self-care and showing yourself love are essential for maintaining mental health and overall well-being.
Birthdays are the perfect time to "Treat Yo Self" and practice self-care. Whether it be fancy chocolates, a spa day, or new tech, it's the perfect excuse to be self-indulgent and grab yourself a gift... Or two.
If you're looking for ideas on how to treat yourself, this guide is for you. From gift ideas, such as the best birthday hampers in Australia, to the importance of practising self-care, it covers everything you need to know about making your special day perfect.
In today's fast-paced society, self-care is often the first thing to be sacrificed when life gets too busy or stressful. Despite the stigma that taking time for yourself is too indulgent, it's critical for your well-being and ability to support others.
With Australia currently facing a mental health crisis, it's more important than ever for people to practise self-care. Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare have found that 1 in 5 Australians aged 16 to 85 experienced a mental disorder in the past year.
Self-care refers to any activities that an individual takes to preserve and maintain their physical, emotional, and mental health. The activities will vary from person to person, but the ultimate goal of practising self-care is to:
Self-care ensures that our basic needs are met-sleep, nutrition, movement, connection, and fun-which are all proven to have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being.
Practising self-care looks different for everyone. For one person, it might be regular hikes through nature, and for another, daily meditation. There is one form of self-care that everyone can agree on, though-buying yourself gifts.
Although it is not a formal psychological intervention, the concept of "retail therapy" has become popular in recent years. The idea is that shopping and purchasing items can help regulate emotions and provide a momentary relief from anxiety, depression, and/or stress.
Research suggests that there is significant psychological and therapeutic value to shopping when done in moderation. It can help release the body's happy hormones, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which contribute to happiness, relaxation, and motivation.
That's how treating yourself is a form of self-care, and your birthday is the perfect opportunity to indulge yourself in some "retail therapy". Below is a list of the best gift ideas you can purchase to treat yourself.
A great way to treat yourself on your special day is through a birthday hamper. They're great because you aren't limited to just one item; instead, you get a basket full. Similarly, most hamper companies also allow you to tailor the contents to suit your preferences.
There's also a diverse range of birthday hamper options. Whether you're looking for a suite of chocolatey treats, a collection of savoury snacks, or something a bit more adult, such as hampers for cocktails and spirits, there's one for everyone.
Nothing screams self-care more than skincare products. High-quality skincare products, such as moisturiser and serums, can be quite expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to open your wallet and get yourself a good set.
Skincare products are also the gift that keeps on giving. The items themselves are a form of self-care, and the routines can act as daily rituals, adding stability and consistency to your life.
Whether you're looking for a new laptop, phone, or tablet, birthdays are the perfect opportunity to upgrade your tech. Depending on the retail store, they may also offer birthday discounts that you can put towards the device.
Buying electronics can be expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to self-indulge and go big. Phones and computers can also facilitate self-care, such as playing games with friends or through mental well-being apps, like Finch.
One of the best feelings in the world is receiving flowers and having them delivered straight to your door. If you ever needed an excuse to buy yourself a bouquet (or two), birthdays are the perfect justification.
This guide is your sign that you should hop on your computer (or smartphone) and order some flowers for your birthday. Depending on the shop, many florists also sell gift hampers and candles that you can bundle with your flowers.
If you want to treat yourself but you're not quite sure what to buy, gift cards are a great idea. You can buy your future self a gift card to a shop or a spa. You still reap the benefits of retail therapy, but have more time to decide what you want to spend it on.
This is branded content.
If there is one thing that Parks and Recreation got right, it was popularising the idea of "Treat Yo Self." Research has shown that practising self-care and showing yourself love are essential for maintaining mental health and overall well-being.
Birthdays are the perfect time to "Treat Yo Self" and practice self-care. Whether it be fancy chocolates, a spa day, or new tech, it's the perfect excuse to be self-indulgent and grab yourself a gift... Or two.
If you're looking for ideas on how to treat yourself, this guide is for you. From gift ideas, such as the best birthday hampers in Australia, to the importance of practising self-care, it covers everything you need to know about making your special day perfect.
In today's fast-paced society, self-care is often the first thing to be sacrificed when life gets too busy or stressful. Despite the stigma that taking time for yourself is too indulgent, it's critical for your well-being and ability to support others.
With Australia currently facing a mental health crisis, it's more important than ever for people to practise self-care. Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare have found that 1 in 5 Australians aged 16 to 85 experienced a mental disorder in the past year.
Self-care refers to any activities that an individual takes to preserve and maintain their physical, emotional, and mental health. The activities will vary from person to person, but the ultimate goal of practising self-care is to:
Self-care ensures that our basic needs are met-sleep, nutrition, movement, connection, and fun-which are all proven to have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being.
Practising self-care looks different for everyone. For one person, it might be regular hikes through nature, and for another, daily meditation. There is one form of self-care that everyone can agree on, though-buying yourself gifts.
Although it is not a formal psychological intervention, the concept of "retail therapy" has become popular in recent years. The idea is that shopping and purchasing items can help regulate emotions and provide a momentary relief from anxiety, depression, and/or stress.
Research suggests that there is significant psychological and therapeutic value to shopping when done in moderation. It can help release the body's happy hormones, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which contribute to happiness, relaxation, and motivation.
That's how treating yourself is a form of self-care, and your birthday is the perfect opportunity to indulge yourself in some "retail therapy". Below is a list of the best gift ideas you can purchase to treat yourself.
A great way to treat yourself on your special day is through a birthday hamper. They're great because you aren't limited to just one item; instead, you get a basket full. Similarly, most hamper companies also allow you to tailor the contents to suit your preferences.
There's also a diverse range of birthday hamper options. Whether you're looking for a suite of chocolatey treats, a collection of savoury snacks, or something a bit more adult, such as hampers for cocktails and spirits, there's one for everyone.
Nothing screams self-care more than skincare products. High-quality skincare products, such as moisturiser and serums, can be quite expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to open your wallet and get yourself a good set.
Skincare products are also the gift that keeps on giving. The items themselves are a form of self-care, and the routines can act as daily rituals, adding stability and consistency to your life.
Whether you're looking for a new laptop, phone, or tablet, birthdays are the perfect opportunity to upgrade your tech. Depending on the retail store, they may also offer birthday discounts that you can put towards the device.
Buying electronics can be expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to self-indulge and go big. Phones and computers can also facilitate self-care, such as playing games with friends or through mental well-being apps, like Finch.
One of the best feelings in the world is receiving flowers and having them delivered straight to your door. If you ever needed an excuse to buy yourself a bouquet (or two), birthdays are the perfect justification.
This guide is your sign that you should hop on your computer (or smartphone) and order some flowers for your birthday. Depending on the shop, many florists also sell gift hampers and candles that you can bundle with your flowers.
If you want to treat yourself but you're not quite sure what to buy, gift cards are a great idea. You can buy your future self a gift card to a shop or a spa. You still reap the benefits of retail therapy, but have more time to decide what you want to spend it on.
This is branded content.
If there is one thing that Parks and Recreation got right, it was popularising the idea of "Treat Yo Self." Research has shown that practising self-care and showing yourself love are essential for maintaining mental health and overall well-being.
Birthdays are the perfect time to "Treat Yo Self" and practice self-care. Whether it be fancy chocolates, a spa day, or new tech, it's the perfect excuse to be self-indulgent and grab yourself a gift... Or two.
If you're looking for ideas on how to treat yourself, this guide is for you. From gift ideas, such as the best birthday hampers in Australia, to the importance of practising self-care, it covers everything you need to know about making your special day perfect.
In today's fast-paced society, self-care is often the first thing to be sacrificed when life gets too busy or stressful. Despite the stigma that taking time for yourself is too indulgent, it's critical for your well-being and ability to support others.
With Australia currently facing a mental health crisis, it's more important than ever for people to practise self-care. Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare have found that 1 in 5 Australians aged 16 to 85 experienced a mental disorder in the past year.
Self-care refers to any activities that an individual takes to preserve and maintain their physical, emotional, and mental health. The activities will vary from person to person, but the ultimate goal of practising self-care is to:
Self-care ensures that our basic needs are met-sleep, nutrition, movement, connection, and fun-which are all proven to have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being.
Practising self-care looks different for everyone. For one person, it might be regular hikes through nature, and for another, daily meditation. There is one form of self-care that everyone can agree on, though-buying yourself gifts.
Although it is not a formal psychological intervention, the concept of "retail therapy" has become popular in recent years. The idea is that shopping and purchasing items can help regulate emotions and provide a momentary relief from anxiety, depression, and/or stress.
Research suggests that there is significant psychological and therapeutic value to shopping when done in moderation. It can help release the body's happy hormones, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which contribute to happiness, relaxation, and motivation.
That's how treating yourself is a form of self-care, and your birthday is the perfect opportunity to indulge yourself in some "retail therapy". Below is a list of the best gift ideas you can purchase to treat yourself.
A great way to treat yourself on your special day is through a birthday hamper. They're great because you aren't limited to just one item; instead, you get a basket full. Similarly, most hamper companies also allow you to tailor the contents to suit your preferences.
There's also a diverse range of birthday hamper options. Whether you're looking for a suite of chocolatey treats, a collection of savoury snacks, or something a bit more adult, such as hampers for cocktails and spirits, there's one for everyone.
Nothing screams self-care more than skincare products. High-quality skincare products, such as moisturiser and serums, can be quite expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to open your wallet and get yourself a good set.
Skincare products are also the gift that keeps on giving. The items themselves are a form of self-care, and the routines can act as daily rituals, adding stability and consistency to your life.
Whether you're looking for a new laptop, phone, or tablet, birthdays are the perfect opportunity to upgrade your tech. Depending on the retail store, they may also offer birthday discounts that you can put towards the device.
Buying electronics can be expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to self-indulge and go big. Phones and computers can also facilitate self-care, such as playing games with friends or through mental well-being apps, like Finch.
One of the best feelings in the world is receiving flowers and having them delivered straight to your door. If you ever needed an excuse to buy yourself a bouquet (or two), birthdays are the perfect justification.
This guide is your sign that you should hop on your computer (or smartphone) and order some flowers for your birthday. Depending on the shop, many florists also sell gift hampers and candles that you can bundle with your flowers.
If you want to treat yourself but you're not quite sure what to buy, gift cards are a great idea. You can buy your future self a gift card to a shop or a spa. You still reap the benefits of retail therapy, but have more time to decide what you want to spend it on.
This is branded content.
If there is one thing that Parks and Recreation got right, it was popularising the idea of "Treat Yo Self." Research has shown that practising self-care and showing yourself love are essential for maintaining mental health and overall well-being.
Birthdays are the perfect time to "Treat Yo Self" and practice self-care. Whether it be fancy chocolates, a spa day, or new tech, it's the perfect excuse to be self-indulgent and grab yourself a gift... Or two.
If you're looking for ideas on how to treat yourself, this guide is for you. From gift ideas, such as the best birthday hampers in Australia, to the importance of practising self-care, it covers everything you need to know about making your special day perfect.
In today's fast-paced society, self-care is often the first thing to be sacrificed when life gets too busy or stressful. Despite the stigma that taking time for yourself is too indulgent, it's critical for your well-being and ability to support others.
With Australia currently facing a mental health crisis, it's more important than ever for people to practise self-care. Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare have found that 1 in 5 Australians aged 16 to 85 experienced a mental disorder in the past year.
Self-care refers to any activities that an individual takes to preserve and maintain their physical, emotional, and mental health. The activities will vary from person to person, but the ultimate goal of practising self-care is to:
Self-care ensures that our basic needs are met-sleep, nutrition, movement, connection, and fun-which are all proven to have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being.
Practising self-care looks different for everyone. For one person, it might be regular hikes through nature, and for another, daily meditation. There is one form of self-care that everyone can agree on, though-buying yourself gifts.
Although it is not a formal psychological intervention, the concept of "retail therapy" has become popular in recent years. The idea is that shopping and purchasing items can help regulate emotions and provide a momentary relief from anxiety, depression, and/or stress.
Research suggests that there is significant psychological and therapeutic value to shopping when done in moderation. It can help release the body's happy hormones, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which contribute to happiness, relaxation, and motivation.
That's how treating yourself is a form of self-care, and your birthday is the perfect opportunity to indulge yourself in some "retail therapy". Below is a list of the best gift ideas you can purchase to treat yourself.
A great way to treat yourself on your special day is through a birthday hamper. They're great because you aren't limited to just one item; instead, you get a basket full. Similarly, most hamper companies also allow you to tailor the contents to suit your preferences.
There's also a diverse range of birthday hamper options. Whether you're looking for a suite of chocolatey treats, a collection of savoury snacks, or something a bit more adult, such as hampers for cocktails and spirits, there's one for everyone.
Nothing screams self-care more than skincare products. High-quality skincare products, such as moisturiser and serums, can be quite expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to open your wallet and get yourself a good set.
Skincare products are also the gift that keeps on giving. The items themselves are a form of self-care, and the routines can act as daily rituals, adding stability and consistency to your life.
Whether you're looking for a new laptop, phone, or tablet, birthdays are the perfect opportunity to upgrade your tech. Depending on the retail store, they may also offer birthday discounts that you can put towards the device.
Buying electronics can be expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to self-indulge and go big. Phones and computers can also facilitate self-care, such as playing games with friends or through mental well-being apps, like Finch.
One of the best feelings in the world is receiving flowers and having them delivered straight to your door. If you ever needed an excuse to buy yourself a bouquet (or two), birthdays are the perfect justification.
This guide is your sign that you should hop on your computer (or smartphone) and order some flowers for your birthday. Depending on the shop, many florists also sell gift hampers and candles that you can bundle with your flowers.
If you want to treat yourself but you're not quite sure what to buy, gift cards are a great idea. You can buy your future self a gift card to a shop or a spa. You still reap the benefits of retail therapy, but have more time to decide what you want to spend it on.

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From luxury to low cost: The best gifts to buy yourself
This is branded content. If there is one thing that Parks and Recreation got right, it was popularising the idea of "Treat Yo Self." Research has shown that practising self-care and showing yourself love are essential for maintaining mental health and overall well-being. Birthdays are the perfect time to "Treat Yo Self" and practice self-care. Whether it be fancy chocolates, a spa day, or new tech, it's the perfect excuse to be self-indulgent and grab yourself a gift... Or two. If you're looking for ideas on how to treat yourself, this guide is for you. From gift ideas, such as the best birthday hampers in Australia, to the importance of practising self-care, it covers everything you need to know about making your special day perfect. In today's fast-paced society, self-care is often the first thing to be sacrificed when life gets too busy or stressful. Despite the stigma that taking time for yourself is too indulgent, it's critical for your well-being and ability to support others. With Australia currently facing a mental health crisis, it's more important than ever for people to practise self-care. Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare have found that 1 in 5 Australians aged 16 to 85 experienced a mental disorder in the past year. Self-care refers to any activities that an individual takes to preserve and maintain their physical, emotional, and mental health. The activities will vary from person to person, but the ultimate goal of practising self-care is to: Self-care ensures that our basic needs are met-sleep, nutrition, movement, connection, and fun-which are all proven to have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being. Practising self-care looks different for everyone. For one person, it might be regular hikes through nature, and for another, daily meditation. There is one form of self-care that everyone can agree on, though-buying yourself gifts. Although it is not a formal psychological intervention, the concept of "retail therapy" has become popular in recent years. The idea is that shopping and purchasing items can help regulate emotions and provide a momentary relief from anxiety, depression, and/or stress. Research suggests that there is significant psychological and therapeutic value to shopping when done in moderation. It can help release the body's happy hormones, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which contribute to happiness, relaxation, and motivation. That's how treating yourself is a form of self-care, and your birthday is the perfect opportunity to indulge yourself in some "retail therapy". Below is a list of the best gift ideas you can purchase to treat yourself. A great way to treat yourself on your special day is through a birthday hamper. They're great because you aren't limited to just one item; instead, you get a basket full. Similarly, most hamper companies also allow you to tailor the contents to suit your preferences. There's also a diverse range of birthday hamper options. Whether you're looking for a suite of chocolatey treats, a collection of savoury snacks, or something a bit more adult, such as hampers for cocktails and spirits, there's one for everyone. Nothing screams self-care more than skincare products. High-quality skincare products, such as moisturiser and serums, can be quite expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to open your wallet and get yourself a good set. Skincare products are also the gift that keeps on giving. The items themselves are a form of self-care, and the routines can act as daily rituals, adding stability and consistency to your life. Whether you're looking for a new laptop, phone, or tablet, birthdays are the perfect opportunity to upgrade your tech. Depending on the retail store, they may also offer birthday discounts that you can put towards the device. Buying electronics can be expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to self-indulge and go big. Phones and computers can also facilitate self-care, such as playing games with friends or through mental well-being apps, like Finch. One of the best feelings in the world is receiving flowers and having them delivered straight to your door. If you ever needed an excuse to buy yourself a bouquet (or two), birthdays are the perfect justification. This guide is your sign that you should hop on your computer (or smartphone) and order some flowers for your birthday. Depending on the shop, many florists also sell gift hampers and candles that you can bundle with your flowers. If you want to treat yourself but you're not quite sure what to buy, gift cards are a great idea. You can buy your future self a gift card to a shop or a spa. You still reap the benefits of retail therapy, but have more time to decide what you want to spend it on. This is branded content. If there is one thing that Parks and Recreation got right, it was popularising the idea of "Treat Yo Self." Research has shown that practising self-care and showing yourself love are essential for maintaining mental health and overall well-being. Birthdays are the perfect time to "Treat Yo Self" and practice self-care. Whether it be fancy chocolates, a spa day, or new tech, it's the perfect excuse to be self-indulgent and grab yourself a gift... Or two. If you're looking for ideas on how to treat yourself, this guide is for you. From gift ideas, such as the best birthday hampers in Australia, to the importance of practising self-care, it covers everything you need to know about making your special day perfect. In today's fast-paced society, self-care is often the first thing to be sacrificed when life gets too busy or stressful. Despite the stigma that taking time for yourself is too indulgent, it's critical for your well-being and ability to support others. With Australia currently facing a mental health crisis, it's more important than ever for people to practise self-care. Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare have found that 1 in 5 Australians aged 16 to 85 experienced a mental disorder in the past year. Self-care refers to any activities that an individual takes to preserve and maintain their physical, emotional, and mental health. The activities will vary from person to person, but the ultimate goal of practising self-care is to: Self-care ensures that our basic needs are met-sleep, nutrition, movement, connection, and fun-which are all proven to have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being. Practising self-care looks different for everyone. For one person, it might be regular hikes through nature, and for another, daily meditation. There is one form of self-care that everyone can agree on, though-buying yourself gifts. Although it is not a formal psychological intervention, the concept of "retail therapy" has become popular in recent years. The idea is that shopping and purchasing items can help regulate emotions and provide a momentary relief from anxiety, depression, and/or stress. Research suggests that there is significant psychological and therapeutic value to shopping when done in moderation. It can help release the body's happy hormones, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which contribute to happiness, relaxation, and motivation. That's how treating yourself is a form of self-care, and your birthday is the perfect opportunity to indulge yourself in some "retail therapy". Below is a list of the best gift ideas you can purchase to treat yourself. A great way to treat yourself on your special day is through a birthday hamper. They're great because you aren't limited to just one item; instead, you get a basket full. Similarly, most hamper companies also allow you to tailor the contents to suit your preferences. There's also a diverse range of birthday hamper options. Whether you're looking for a suite of chocolatey treats, a collection of savoury snacks, or something a bit more adult, such as hampers for cocktails and spirits, there's one for everyone. Nothing screams self-care more than skincare products. High-quality skincare products, such as moisturiser and serums, can be quite expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to open your wallet and get yourself a good set. Skincare products are also the gift that keeps on giving. The items themselves are a form of self-care, and the routines can act as daily rituals, adding stability and consistency to your life. Whether you're looking for a new laptop, phone, or tablet, birthdays are the perfect opportunity to upgrade your tech. Depending on the retail store, they may also offer birthday discounts that you can put towards the device. Buying electronics can be expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to self-indulge and go big. Phones and computers can also facilitate self-care, such as playing games with friends or through mental well-being apps, like Finch. One of the best feelings in the world is receiving flowers and having them delivered straight to your door. If you ever needed an excuse to buy yourself a bouquet (or two), birthdays are the perfect justification. This guide is your sign that you should hop on your computer (or smartphone) and order some flowers for your birthday. Depending on the shop, many florists also sell gift hampers and candles that you can bundle with your flowers. If you want to treat yourself but you're not quite sure what to buy, gift cards are a great idea. You can buy your future self a gift card to a shop or a spa. You still reap the benefits of retail therapy, but have more time to decide what you want to spend it on. This is branded content. If there is one thing that Parks and Recreation got right, it was popularising the idea of "Treat Yo Self." Research has shown that practising self-care and showing yourself love are essential for maintaining mental health and overall well-being. Birthdays are the perfect time to "Treat Yo Self" and practice self-care. Whether it be fancy chocolates, a spa day, or new tech, it's the perfect excuse to be self-indulgent and grab yourself a gift... Or two. If you're looking for ideas on how to treat yourself, this guide is for you. From gift ideas, such as the best birthday hampers in Australia, to the importance of practising self-care, it covers everything you need to know about making your special day perfect. In today's fast-paced society, self-care is often the first thing to be sacrificed when life gets too busy or stressful. Despite the stigma that taking time for yourself is too indulgent, it's critical for your well-being and ability to support others. With Australia currently facing a mental health crisis, it's more important than ever for people to practise self-care. Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare have found that 1 in 5 Australians aged 16 to 85 experienced a mental disorder in the past year. Self-care refers to any activities that an individual takes to preserve and maintain their physical, emotional, and mental health. The activities will vary from person to person, but the ultimate goal of practising self-care is to: Self-care ensures that our basic needs are met-sleep, nutrition, movement, connection, and fun-which are all proven to have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being. Practising self-care looks different for everyone. For one person, it might be regular hikes through nature, and for another, daily meditation. There is one form of self-care that everyone can agree on, though-buying yourself gifts. Although it is not a formal psychological intervention, the concept of "retail therapy" has become popular in recent years. The idea is that shopping and purchasing items can help regulate emotions and provide a momentary relief from anxiety, depression, and/or stress. Research suggests that there is significant psychological and therapeutic value to shopping when done in moderation. It can help release the body's happy hormones, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which contribute to happiness, relaxation, and motivation. That's how treating yourself is a form of self-care, and your birthday is the perfect opportunity to indulge yourself in some "retail therapy". Below is a list of the best gift ideas you can purchase to treat yourself. A great way to treat yourself on your special day is through a birthday hamper. They're great because you aren't limited to just one item; instead, you get a basket full. Similarly, most hamper companies also allow you to tailor the contents to suit your preferences. There's also a diverse range of birthday hamper options. Whether you're looking for a suite of chocolatey treats, a collection of savoury snacks, or something a bit more adult, such as hampers for cocktails and spirits, there's one for everyone. Nothing screams self-care more than skincare products. High-quality skincare products, such as moisturiser and serums, can be quite expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to open your wallet and get yourself a good set. Skincare products are also the gift that keeps on giving. The items themselves are a form of self-care, and the routines can act as daily rituals, adding stability and consistency to your life. Whether you're looking for a new laptop, phone, or tablet, birthdays are the perfect opportunity to upgrade your tech. Depending on the retail store, they may also offer birthday discounts that you can put towards the device. Buying electronics can be expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to self-indulge and go big. Phones and computers can also facilitate self-care, such as playing games with friends or through mental well-being apps, like Finch. One of the best feelings in the world is receiving flowers and having them delivered straight to your door. If you ever needed an excuse to buy yourself a bouquet (or two), birthdays are the perfect justification. This guide is your sign that you should hop on your computer (or smartphone) and order some flowers for your birthday. Depending on the shop, many florists also sell gift hampers and candles that you can bundle with your flowers. If you want to treat yourself but you're not quite sure what to buy, gift cards are a great idea. You can buy your future self a gift card to a shop or a spa. You still reap the benefits of retail therapy, but have more time to decide what you want to spend it on. This is branded content. If there is one thing that Parks and Recreation got right, it was popularising the idea of "Treat Yo Self." Research has shown that practising self-care and showing yourself love are essential for maintaining mental health and overall well-being. Birthdays are the perfect time to "Treat Yo Self" and practice self-care. Whether it be fancy chocolates, a spa day, or new tech, it's the perfect excuse to be self-indulgent and grab yourself a gift... Or two. If you're looking for ideas on how to treat yourself, this guide is for you. From gift ideas, such as the best birthday hampers in Australia, to the importance of practising self-care, it covers everything you need to know about making your special day perfect. In today's fast-paced society, self-care is often the first thing to be sacrificed when life gets too busy or stressful. Despite the stigma that taking time for yourself is too indulgent, it's critical for your well-being and ability to support others. With Australia currently facing a mental health crisis, it's more important than ever for people to practise self-care. Statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare have found that 1 in 5 Australians aged 16 to 85 experienced a mental disorder in the past year. Self-care refers to any activities that an individual takes to preserve and maintain their physical, emotional, and mental health. The activities will vary from person to person, but the ultimate goal of practising self-care is to: Self-care ensures that our basic needs are met-sleep, nutrition, movement, connection, and fun-which are all proven to have a significant impact on our mental health and well-being. Practising self-care looks different for everyone. For one person, it might be regular hikes through nature, and for another, daily meditation. There is one form of self-care that everyone can agree on, though-buying yourself gifts. Although it is not a formal psychological intervention, the concept of "retail therapy" has become popular in recent years. The idea is that shopping and purchasing items can help regulate emotions and provide a momentary relief from anxiety, depression, and/or stress. Research suggests that there is significant psychological and therapeutic value to shopping when done in moderation. It can help release the body's happy hormones, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which contribute to happiness, relaxation, and motivation. That's how treating yourself is a form of self-care, and your birthday is the perfect opportunity to indulge yourself in some "retail therapy". Below is a list of the best gift ideas you can purchase to treat yourself. A great way to treat yourself on your special day is through a birthday hamper. They're great because you aren't limited to just one item; instead, you get a basket full. Similarly, most hamper companies also allow you to tailor the contents to suit your preferences. There's also a diverse range of birthday hamper options. Whether you're looking for a suite of chocolatey treats, a collection of savoury snacks, or something a bit more adult, such as hampers for cocktails and spirits, there's one for everyone. Nothing screams self-care more than skincare products. High-quality skincare products, such as moisturiser and serums, can be quite expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to open your wallet and get yourself a good set. Skincare products are also the gift that keeps on giving. The items themselves are a form of self-care, and the routines can act as daily rituals, adding stability and consistency to your life. Whether you're looking for a new laptop, phone, or tablet, birthdays are the perfect opportunity to upgrade your tech. Depending on the retail store, they may also offer birthday discounts that you can put towards the device. Buying electronics can be expensive, which is why birthdays are the perfect excuse to self-indulge and go big. Phones and computers can also facilitate self-care, such as playing games with friends or through mental well-being apps, like Finch. One of the best feelings in the world is receiving flowers and having them delivered straight to your door. If you ever needed an excuse to buy yourself a bouquet (or two), birthdays are the perfect justification. This guide is your sign that you should hop on your computer (or smartphone) and order some flowers for your birthday. Depending on the shop, many florists also sell gift hampers and candles that you can bundle with your flowers. If you want to treat yourself but you're not quite sure what to buy, gift cards are a great idea. You can buy your future self a gift card to a shop or a spa. You still reap the benefits of retail therapy, but have more time to decide what you want to spend it on.


7NEWS
a day ago
- 7NEWS
Sunscreen brands could face reformulation after safety review
Some of our most popular sunscreen brands could be forced to reformulate, after a safety review from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The safeguards concern two active ingredients, homosalate and oxybenzone, as well as a by-product called benzophenone. The chemicals help block UV rays, but studies completed overseas suggest they could disrupt hormones when used in very high doses, over a long period of time. Professor Robyn Langham, the TGA's chief medical adviser says the risks are minor. 'The risks that have been identified in some of these studies have been demonstrated only in animals, and only with very high use of product over a prolonged period of time,' Langham said.. 'They can be described as only theoretical, in terms of their risks to humans.' Brands which have products with the active ingredient homosalate include Banana Boat, Nivea, Bondi Sands, Woolworths and Coles-branded sunscreens, and Cancer Council. The Cancer Council says sunscreens available in Australia are safe. 'Cancer Council welcomes developments in evidence, technologies and regulations that improve the regulation of sunscreens,' it said. 'The TGA has confirmed Australians do not need to change their use of sunscreens, and Cancer Council encourages all Australians to use sunscreen as one of the five forms of sun protection when the UV Index is three or above.' One of Brisbane's leading dermatologists, Dr Shobhan Manoharan, expects the TGA to lower the levels of the ingredients allowed in sunscreens. 'The US and Europe have dropped their concentrations on these and I suspect that's the trend we'll see in our local market as well,' Manoharan said. 'If the patient has allergies or sensitive skin or really doesn't want to expose themselves to any of these agents, there are some outstanding physical blockers with zinc or titanium in them, and they can use that as an alternative instead.'

Sydney Morning Herald
a day ago
- Sydney Morning Herald
CorWave device: Australian man receives heart implant at St Vincent's Hospital in world first
Jansz said the two-hour surgery was similar to that required for implant devices currently on the market, but its unique design had the potential to deliver enormous benefits for patients. Loading 'This represents a quantum leap in terms of technology,' he said. 'Very sick patients need a lot of blood flowing around their body … this new [implant] has the ability to pump, not only in a pulsatile manner, but in a greater volume.' The device, which effectively bypasses the failing pump action of the left ventricle, is implanted to act as a bridge to transplantation: keeping the patient alive and well until a donor heart becomes available. Smith is currently living in an apartment close to the hospital. He will return to Leeton in a few weeks, where he is looking forward to catching up with his sons and grandchildren – and getting back on the golf course. 'This transition period with the CorWave allows Michael to get better,' Jansz said. 'His kidneys are working normally, his brain and his heart's working well, he's nourished and he's essentially normal. That's a much better situation to go into a transplant with.' Smith was the first of about 20 patients expected to receive the implant as part of a three-year clinical trial testing the device's efficacy. One other patient has since received the implant at St Vincent's. Mimicking the behaviour of a normally functioning heart, the CorWave's oscillating membrane is driven by a single moving part that automatically adjusts blood flow based on what the patient needs – speeding up when the patient is moving and slowing down at times of rest. This represents a major shift from traditional LVADs, which use a rotating impeller to pump a continuous and fixed flow of blood, without generating a pulse. 'The benefit is that it will be able to respond to exercise more efficiently, and it can be put in sync with the heartbeat … the hope is that will translate to better outcomes for patients,' said Professor Chris Hayward, the senior cardiologist at St Vincent's who led Smith's recovery. Around 144,000 people in Australia live with heart failure, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare estimates. It was the underlying cause of more than 5000 deaths and contributes to more than 170,000 hospitalisations each year. St Vincent's implants about 60 LVADs a year, Hayward said. The procedure is the latest milestone for the globally renowned team at St Vincent's, who in November implanted the world's first totally artificial heart. The research trial has not received Australian government funding, but the device has attracted significant backing from governments and private investors in Europe. Inspired by the movement of marine animals, the undulating membrane technology was conceived by former triple jumper Jean-Baptiste Drevet, who died in 2022. CorWave chief executive Louis de Lillers said the device was the result of more than a decade of research and development by Paris-based engineers and doctors. 'We owe this moment to the trust of the patient, the excellence of the team at St Vincent's, and the perseverance of our team,' he said. Start the day with a summary of the day's most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.