Conversations around mental health have become more acceptable but with 42.9% of the population aged 16 to 85 having experienced a mental health condition at some point in life the conversation is by no means over. For Mental Health Month this October we’re continuing the cause of destigmatising mental health by chatting with our community of retailers and traders about how they care for their wellbeing because mental health is health after all. Read the full story below.

Cameron at Aesop – self-care is all about routines and rituals for Aesop’s Cameron. In the morning, this looks like a getting out for a walk, often through James Street, with Cameron noting that the access to vibrant greenery and the abundance of natural light has an overwhelmingly positive impact on the rest of his day. Once the day is done, Cameron sets his sights on his nighttime routine. This involves some aromatherapy by way of Aesop’s room sprays, a steaming hot shower, the Blue Chamomile Facial Hydrating Masque and crucially as little screen time as possible. Not only is Cameron’s skin left replenished, but the calming scents also mean he gets a great night sleep, waking up revitalised for the next day.

Bray at Camargue – For Camargue’s golden child, Bray, self-care primarily takes the form of physical exercise. Be it pushing themself in Pilates or going for a painstakingly long run, Bray finds that the toll of intense exercise actually allows them to connect with feelings and issues their conscious brain may be avoiding.

Maisy at ēmmē – working three different jobs, Maisy from ēmmē has learnt to fit her self-care and relaxation in wherever she can. Like many residents of the Sunshine State, Maisy can often be found at the beach, on a hike or exploring hidden outdoor hang outs. When time doesn’t permit such outdoorsy activities, it’s her group of friends (a cheeky spot of retail therapy when necessary) that keep Maisy feeling sustained and supported. Despite all working different schedules, Maisy and her friends endeavour to find time for one another often over a wholesome homecooked meal and with plenty of laughs on the side.

Portia at Mud – store manager at the elegant porcelain emporium, Portia has found making the switch from commuting to work by car to by foot overwhelmingly positive for her mental health and wellbeing. Totalling 45 minutes, this walk has replaced her previous post-work doom scroll, leaving Portia more time and energy to enjoy dinners with her partner on their new balcony. Portia’s tips for making a new routine like this stick? Chuck on the tunes (2000s bangers are Portia’s go-to) when it comes to the walk and limit technological distractions by making your phone’s Do Not Disturb feature your new best friend.

Hannah at Museum of Small Things – the theme of getting outside and into nature when it comes to safeguarding mental health continues with Hannah, store manager at M.O.S.T. Whether it’s up to Mount Cootha or just around the neighbourhood, a big walk is always in store for Hannah when she’s needing to let off some steam. Not only great for boosting endorphins, Hannah’s walks feed two birds with one stone by also providing the perfect opportunity to socialise, catch up and debrief with her support network of friends, family and loved ones.

Shanae at Silk Laundry – In the wise words of Silk Laundry’s Shanae, creating work/life balance can be as simple as having a nice warn shower and changing out of her work clothes into comfy home clothes. Shanae finds this small yet considerate act helpful for ensuring a distinction between the work and home environments. Another avenue for bolstering the balance between first and second places Shanae has found is having a hobby or creative outlet especially one that differs greatly to your role and responsibilities at work. Shanae herself is a prolific artist and has been working on some very exciting commissions in her free time.