Join Emma Van Den Driest as she unpacks the biology of the fight or flight stress response, and explains the vital balance between the Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous Systems – understand better how chronic stress can contribute to long-term health challenges such as anxiety, fatigue, hormone imbalances, and more. Learn how your body reacts to perceived threats through the Sympathetic Nervous System, and why the ancient survival mechanism, and the misidentification of threats in our modern world, may be leading to nervous system dysregulation and is no longer functioning to protect us. This learning module encourages a better understanding of stress and how it can effect everything from digestion to immune function. Take charge of your nervous system, reduce the complications of chronic stress response activation, move back into parasympathetic dominance and find your calm.

In this episode of the Patient Education Series, Nutritionist and Naturopath Emma Van Den Driest explores the key principles of meal prepping - an essential practice for maximising time efficiency to achieve realistic nutrition-related goals, by aligning meal prepping strategies with personal health objectives. Whether you're running an entire family, working long hours, or simply aiming towards eating more balanced meals, Emma guides you through the process of creating actionable and achievable goals. Emma also discusses how to establish sustainable habits around meal prepping, ensuring that you stay consistent without feeling overwhelmed. With expert advice on kitchen essentials, you can build a well-stocked kitchen that supports healthy eating without going over budget. From pantry staples to fresh ingredients, learn what to keep on hand for effortless meal planning and prepping. With practical and delicious meal examples, learn how to craft a meal prep routine that is both effective and flexible. Create a clear plan to streamline your cooking routine, enhance your nutrition, and stay on track with your health goals - all while saving valuable time during the week for maximum convenience and nutritional benefit.

In this episode of the Patient Education Series, Nutritionist and Naturopath Emma Van Den Driest takes us through the fundamentals of effective meal planning. Learn how to organise your week and avoid falling into the habit of skipped meals, last-minute cooking and emergency take-away dinners, with time-efficient and budget-friendly strategies. Learn how to create a balanced plate and meet nutritional needs with specific macronutrients and food groups. With these strategies and meal plan examples, you will be better equipped to take control of your meals, and make informed, health-conscious decisions to foster a more consistent approach to nutrition and meal planning. Feel empowered to make healthier, more intentional food choices every day, reduce food waste, and maintain a more balanced, sustainable approach to eating well.