Join Mel this Mother’s Day for The House of Wellness with Chemist Warehouse on The Breeze where she chats to TV presenter and podcast host Sonia Gray, comedian and cancer survivor Dr Jo Prendergast, exercise expert Alice Douglas and resident pharmacist Piyara Perera.
Featured Guest: Sonia Gray
Much loved Lotto presenter Sonia Gray opened up her personal wellness journey.
Following severe burnout from overworking - leading to a nervous breakdown - Sonia discusses the importance of slowing down and finding joy in simplicity. By prioritising rest, mindfulness and pilates, she has found new clarity and strength.
After her own ADHD diagnosis and her daughter’s challenges, Sonia is passionate about advocating for neurodivergent individuals.
She is currently starting work for the third series of her podcast and has recently finished a documentary on psychedelic therapy, which will be released in June.
Featured Guest: Dr Jo Prendergast
Psychiatrist, author, stand-up comedian, and parent Dr Jo Prendergast has turned her experience with breast cancer into comedy.
‘Cancer and Cartwheels’, part of the New Zealand Comedy Festival, finds the light in Dr Jo’s cancer journey by using humor as a tool for both coping and education.
Dr Jo hopes that the meaningful projects she has worked on during her treatment time will act as a model for her children should they face difficulties in life.
“I’m a projects person, so when the going gets tough, I do projects,” Dr Jo says, “that’s definitely my way of coping.”
Currently in remission, Dr. Jo maintains her health with daily exercise, driven by the lingering risk of dormant cancer cells reactivating.
Featured Guest: Alice Douglas
Personal trainer specialising in pre and postnatal fitness Alice Douglas shares advice for new mothers getting back into exercise after childbirth.
Alice emphasised the importance of embracing your new body with realistic expectations, patience and self-compassion.
She recommends starting with gentle movement such as walking or light resistance training, tailored to what feels good and aligns with your recovery.
Alice also highlights the role of proper hydration, nutrition, rest and mindfulness techniques like ‘stop, breathe, be’ to reset amidst the chaos.
Resident Pharmacist: Piyara Perera
This week, resident pharmacist Piyara sheds light on the challenges mothers face prioritising their own wellbeing among the demands of family life,
Piyara discusses the importance of sleep, self-care and stress management, suggesting magnesium supplements and chamomile tea to manage.
Featured Product: Chemist Warehouse Fragrances
Having just gone Mother’s Day, what better time to pamper the mum-figure in your life! Piyara joined Mel to chat about the array of fragrances available at Chemist Warehouse and did a smell test with some of her favorites.
Sabrina Carpenter Caramel Dream Eau De Parfum
This scent is a combination of velvety dark chocolate beans with caramelised amber and is great for younger listeners.
Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Extreme Intense Eau de Parfum
Flowerbomb Extreme Eau de Parfum is enjoyed by all generations and is a powerful floral fragrance.
Jean Paul Gaultier Classique for Women Eau De Toilette
Classique is a timeless fragrance composed of warm, opulent floral and vanilla tones.
Carolina Herrera Good Girl Eau De Parfum
This is a bold, powerful fragrance that comes in a uniquely designed bottle in the shape of a stiletto.
Elizabeth Arden Pretty Eau De Parfum
The Pretty Eau de Parfum is a light-hearted composition crafted from timeless floral notes.
Piyara left us with this top tip - dabbing the fragrance into your skin rather than rubbing it can help it spread more evenly and help it to last longer!
Tune in next Sunday from 8am for more wellness tips and insights with The House of Wellness on The Breeze.
