Finding Sanctuary

HSH Initiative
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Hills Sanctuary House (HSH) - https://hshl.org.au/ Finding Sanctuary - your  dose of insight into how we think and feel; and how you can find safe haven in your daily life. We get together with experts to chat about all things mental health, getting insights and understanding on the why's we do what we do. 

  1. Aug 10

    Chronic Pain and Emotion: What Your Body Is Telling You | Theodora Ghali and Sami Karam

    Why does your back give out when life piles up? Chiropractor Theodora Ghali and osteopath Sami Karam join Debbie and Nat to unpack how stress and unspoken emotion show up in the body, from chronic pain to headaches with no medical explanation. Two patient stories reveal just how deeply the body keeps score. You'll learn how your nervous system holds tension, why sleep, diet and exercise are your entry point to recovery, and what to do when stress starts speaking through your body. About the Guests: Theodora Ghali: Theodora is a distinguished chiropractor and clinical Pilates instructor with over a decade of experience in her field. She began her educational journey through a love of science, eventually discovering chiropractic studies, which offered her the opportunity to work holistically with the body. She specializes in the interconnection between physical and emotional health, utilizing her expertise in Pilates to enhance body-mind integration and patient wellbeing. Sami Karam: Sami is a seasoned osteopath with over 20 years of experience in private practice. His approach is deeply rooted in the philosophy of osteopathy, which views the individual as a unit of body, mind, and spirit. He has recently focused on mentoring emerging osteopaths through his initiative, Success in Practice, offering mentorship and training to help new practitioners transition from academic settings into effective practitioners in private practice. Key Takeaways: Theodora Ghali emphasizes the importance of viewing and treating the body holistically, recognizing that stress and emotions can significantly influence physical health.Sami Karam notes that the philosophy of osteopathy treats the person as a unit of body, mind, and spirit, focusing on the body's ability to self-regulate.The holistic approach in chiropractic and osteopathy aids in identifying underlying emotional issues that manifest as physical symptoms.The role of mentorship, as highlighted by Sami, is vital in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application for new practitioners.The episode underscores the significance of integrating breath work and personalized exercise regimes, like clinical Pilates, as essential tools for mental and physical health alignment.Notable Quotes: "As soon as you touch, you feel it. It's not an injury. It's something deeper." – Theodora Ghali"When somebody comes to see me, I just move things out of the way and the body regulates itself." – Sami Karam"Stress isn’t the problem; the problem is not recovering well from a stressful situation." – Theodora Ghali"The body eventually will regulate for trauma and emotional stress, and that plays out." – Sami Karam"The more experience you have with seeing it, obviously it becomes easier. You need to be quite attuned to the patient." – Sami KaramResources: Theodora Ghali's PracticeSami Karam's Mentoring Program: Success in PracticeSami Karam's Practice  You and your mental health is important to us. If this episode brought up any heavy emotions, please know you do not need to carry them alone. Reach out to Lifeline, Beyond Blue, or the counselling service at Hills Sanctuary house at hshl.org.au  Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary. Follow us on Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

  2. Jul 27

    Ray Younis - Fitness, Connection and Emotional Wellbeing

    Ray Younis has spent over thirty years in the fitness industry, and he has watched what really keeps people coming back. It is not the workout. It is the connection. In this episode of Finding Sanctuary, Ray joins Debbie Draybi and Natalie Moujalli to explore how physical activity, community and faith shape our emotional wellbeing. From beating isolation to redefining success, this is a warm, honest conversation about looking after mind, body and soul. Discover why the first step matters most, and how connection anchors a healthy life. About the Guest: Ray Younis is a well known professional with a background spanning education, sport, and fitness. He was a schoolteacher and a professional footballer, and he is now the owner and lead trainer at Rush Hour Australia, where he also works in a strength and conditioning role with the Western Sydney Wanderers. He is a father of three and a committed Christian, and he is known for his focus on community engagement and personal development. Key Takeaways: Interconnection of Health: Physical exercise is not merely a function of physical fitness but a conduit for emotional and mental well-being, especially when bolstered by community support.Balanced Success: Success should be defined not just by career or financial gains but by achieving a balanced life, prioritizing faith, family, community, and health.Approach to Training: While physical training is crucial, it should not overshadow emotional and mental health, suggesting the need for a balanced approach to fitness.Community and Connection: Feeling connected and being part of a community is emphasized as a vital part of human well-being, impacting both physical and emotional states.Role Modeling: Influencing a community, like Ray Younis has done, can inspire a culture shift towards integrating self-care and fitness in daily life, promoting overall well-being.Notable Quotes: "Connectedness is the anchor point.""It's very much an emotional roller coaster.""Success is very much a very big umbrella.""You either win or you learn.""For me, I just want to be the best version of myself that I can."Resources: Rush Hour Australia You and your mental health is important to us. If this episode brought up any heavy emotions, please know you do not need to carry them alone. Reach out to Lifeline, Beyond Blue, or the counselling service at Hills Sanctuary house at hshl.org.au  Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary. Follow us on Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

  3. Jul 13

    Fertility, High Risk Pregnancy and Menopause | Dr Marie Rose Mouawad and Dr Michael Azzi

    About the Guests: Dr. Marie Rose Mouawad supports women facing unexpected pregnancies and postnatal challenges. She is involved with Teresa’s Centre, a MaroniteCare initiative in Sydney that provides emotional, spiritual, and practical support for women experiencing isolation, anxiety, and societal pressure. Dr. Mouawad helps empower women through education and resources. Dr. Michael Azzi is a practitioner at NaPro Life Centre, specializing in restorative reproductive medicine. Using NaProTechnology, he focuses on fertility struggles and broader reproductive health with a root-cause, non-IVF approach. He is committed to care that reduces anxiety and guilt associated with fertility challenges. Key Takeaways: Naprotechnology offers a natural approach to reproductive health, aiming to restore fertility by identifying and treating the root causes of issues.Emotional support and community are crucial for women navigating pregnancy challenges, as well as postnatal experiences.Societal pressures and personal guilt often accompany pregnancy-related struggles, underscoring the need for open communication and professional guidance.Menopause, while a natural physiological transition, presents diverse psychological and emotional challenges that require understanding and support from both family and healthcare providers.Dr. Mouawad and Dr. Azzi stress the importance of not suffering in silence and seeking help and support when needed.Notable Quotes: "We provide fertility care that restores hope." - Dr. Michael Azzi"There's a lot of pressure from society…they blame themselves for what happened, for a miscarriage." - Dr. Marie Rose Mouawad"I find if one of us opens up and talks about it, then people don't feel so alone." - Joni Raad"We have to work through their spouse with this." - Dr. Michael Azzi"Speak to a doctor you trust. Come speak to one of us as well." - Dr. Marie Rose MouawadResources: Napro Life Center: Focused on holistic care and naprotechnology in Sydney.  You and your mental health is important to us. If this episode brought up any heavy emotions, please know you do not need to carry them alone. Reach out to Lifeline, Beyond Blue, or the counselling service at Hills Sanctuary house at hshl.org.au  Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary. Follow us on Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

  4. Jun 29

    Hormones & Mental Health in Women | Dr. Michael Azzi

    About the Guest: Dr. Michael Azzi, founder of Napro Life Centre and trained in the US in naprotechnology, joins Debbie and Eddie for a deep conversation about women's health, hormones, mental health and fertility. Michael opens up about the loss of his daughter Lily, the cultural weight of suffering in silence, and why your symptoms aren't a sign you're broken. They're your body asking to be heard. Part One of a two part series. You'll learn how to read your cycle, when to seek help, and how holistic care restores hope. Key Takeaways: Holistic Healthcare: Emphasising the importance of a holistic approach to women's health, Dr. Azzi integrates medical treatment with lifestyle changes and spiritual considerations.Fertility Awareness and Naprotechnology: Dr. Azzi outlines how fertility awareness methods like the Creighton Model can provide insights into health issues, advocating for understanding the body's signals.Impact of Personal Experiences: Dr. Azzi's work is deeply informed by personal experiences, particularly his journey with pregnancy loss, which enhances his empathy and connection with patients.Cycle Awareness and Mental Health: There's a distinct interplay between a woman's menstrual cycle and her mental well-being, deserving attention and care rather than dismissal as "normal."Stigmas in Women's Health: Addressing the societal stigmas around menstruation and fertility, the episode encourages openness and understanding as part of breaking down these barriers.Notable Quotes: "Symptoms are a meaningful way to listen to your body calling for help." – Dr. Michael Azzi"It's that kind of approach that, through my training, has always led me to kind of just ask further questions about what's going on." – Dr. Michael Azzi"Sometimes our experiences kind of dictate our behavior, and sometimes we just do things without even knowing what we're doing." – Eddie Reaiche"Your value is not defined by your fertility." – Dr. Michael Azzi"It's all about just having that balance between the two and treating both streams at the same time." – Dr. Michael AzziResources: Napro Life Center: Focused on holistic care and naprotechnology in Sydney.  You and your mental health is important to us. If this episode brought up any heavy emotions, please know you do not need to carry them alone. Reach out to Lifeline, Beyond Blue, or the counselling service at Hills Sanctuary house at hshl.org.au  Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary. Follow us on Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

  5. Jun 15

    Wendy El Khoury on Faith, Community and Giving Back

    About the Guest Wendy El Khoury is the founder of Wedded Wonderland, a leading wedding platform known for celebrating cultural and cross-cultural weddings. She began her career as a project manager at Commonwealth Bank before moving into the wedding industry, where her family’s involvement in a wedding venue helped shape her path. Today, she is recognized as an entrepreneur, strategist, educator, and philanthropist. Key Takeaways: Wendy El Khoury's entrepreneurial journey demonstrates the power of cultural identity and community engagement in achieving professional success.Her platform, Wedded Wonderland, emphasises global cultural weddings and fosters diverse community connections.Personal stories from Wendy highlight the impact of cultural heritage and family values on her philanthropic endeavors.The episode reflects on the significance of volunteering and community involvement in enhancing personal and professional fulfillment.Wendy shares practical advice on maintaining a balanced approach in giving back while prioritising personal well-being and family.Notable Quotes: "You have to uplift others and anything, and that's why Wedded Wonderland is so successful as well.""Being a leader is really important. Using our platform is really important. And then giving back to community, like that's what it's all about.""We live in a safe country. We afforded education. We have a hospital that if you go that to hospital, you're okay.""If you've lost your way, and we've all been there, remember, you always have a community here to support you.""I have an abundance mentality."Resources: Wedded Wonderland Website You and your mental health is important to us. If this episode brought up any heavy emotions, please know you do not need to carry them alone. Reach out to Lifeline, Beyond Blue, or the counselling service at Hills Sanctuary house at hshl.org.au  Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary. Follow us on Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

  6. Jun 1

    Social Media, Teens and the Comparison Trap | William McInnes and Buddie Boufrancis

    About the Guests: Buddie Bou Francis: Buddie is actively involved with the Children's Liturgy at Christ the Redeemer. His background in fitness, coaching teenagers, and participation in community activities like the liturgical group portrays him as a mentor figure with insights into the challenges faced by today's youth. William McInnes: Will is the Ministry Coordinator Redeemed Teens at Christ the Redeemer. With a history in surf lifesaving and a commitment to building community, Will adds value with his balanced approach to youth mentorship, focusing on responsibility and personal development. Summary This generation of teenagers isn't struggling more than those before them. They're struggling differently. In this episode, Natalie Moujalli sits down with Buddy Boufrancis and William McInnes, two people who work closely with young people, to talk about what today's teens are actually up against. Social media, validation loops, the fear of failure, and a generation that has access to everything but ownership of very little. You'll walk away with a clearer picture of how to tell healthy ambition from unhealthy comparison, and what formation actually looks like in the digital age. Key Takeaways: Generational Struggles: Today's teens face unique emotional and informational challenges that differ from the physical struggles of previous generations.Information Overload: Access to vast amounts of information on social media can overwhelm teens, stressing the need for discernment in consumption.Responsibility and Ownership: Encouraging teens to find responsibility through manageable tasks can build character and resilience.Healthy Ambition vs. Unhealthy Comparison: Understanding the difference between self-improvement and the corrosive effects of comparison is crucial for mental health.Avoidance of Validation Traps: Teens are advised to derive self-worth from within rather than external validation through social media.Notable Quotes: "Depending on what you define struggle, there's a level of struggle that makes it hard for the generation before us to relate." - Buddie Boufrancis"It's about making mistakes. It's about trying something. It's about putting yourself out there a little bit." - Will McInnes"Your ability to take ownership of what you want and figure out which direction you want to move in is ultimately how to oppose that." - Buddie Boufrancis"Comparison makes you feel sick. How do you tell the difference? One produces an output, and the other produces anxiety." - Buddie Boufrancis"Everything's gonna be okay. Enjoy the journey. Have your eyes set on where you want to go, but enjoy the journey." - Will McInnesYou and your mental health is important to us. If this episode brought up any heavy emotions, please know you do not need to carry them alone. Reach out to Lifeline, Beyond Blue, or the counselling service at Hills Sanctuary house at hshl.org.au  Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary. Follow us on Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

  7. May 18

    Silent Depression: Why Men Hide Their Pain | Mounir Bechara

    Key Takeaways: Silent depression manifests differently in men, often presenting as anger, aggression, or addictive behaviors rather than stereotypical depressive symptoms.Cultural expectations and pressures can exacerbate mental health challenges, making it crucial to understand these nuances when offering support.Support from trusted friends and peers can play a pivotal role in encouraging men to seek help, breaking down barriers to accessing mental health services.Taking actionable steps beyond talk therapy is vital for healing; a holistic approach encompassing therapy, spirituality, and community support is essential.Understanding and addressing underlying emotions such as shame, guilt, and fear of failure can pave the way for better mental health outcomes.Notable Quotes: "A lot of our men, especially in our culture, experience silent depression. It looks very different to what classic depression might look like." – Mounir Bechara"Healthy guilt says, ‘I recognize this is an issue, and this is what I need to do to fix it.’" – Monsignor Shora"Never stop trying. Each time you fall and get back up is a lesson." – Mounir Bechara"To find success, it isn’t just about the things you achieve, but also about the person you become." – Mounir Bechara"Having a brotherhood, people with integrity and faith, will help you really discern your expectations." – Monsignor ShoraResources: Guiding Light PsychologyYou and your mental health is important to us. If this episode brought up any heavy emotions, please know you do not need to carry them alone. Reach out to Lifeline, Beyond Blue, or the counselling service at Hills Sanctuary house at hshl.org.au  Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary. Follow us on Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

  8. May 4

    Paramedic Burnout, Mental Resilience and Asking for Help | Zeb Miller

    Zeb Miller is a seasoned paramedic with nearly 14 years of experience in emergency services. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated an exceptional ability to learn and adapt, gaining significant insights into both the clinical and human aspects of medical care. Zeb’s extensive experience and growth trajectory within the paramedic field have equipped him with a deep understanding of holistic patient care, which considers not only the clinical symptoms but also the social and psychological aspects of those he serves. Key Takeaways: Zeb Miller's journey into the paramedic profession started unexpectedly but has become a significant part of his life, offering continuous learning and life lessons.Becoming a parent profoundly impacted Zeb, enhancing his compassion and holistic approach to patient care, emphasizing the importance of seeing patients as people first.Cultural awareness plays a crucial role in delivering comprehensive and respectful medical care, improving rapport with patients from diverse backgrounds.Mental resilience and emotional well-being are paramount in emergency services, with Zeb advocating for openness in discussing mental health issues and seeking professional help.Normalizing conversations about mental health and understanding one's emotional responses can significantly improve personal well-being and professional performance.Notable Quotes: "I realized that these people aren't just patients. Once you have kids, you feel more, I guess, maybe vulnerable. Compassion, it's probably the best word.""Once you see that negative impact, you really realize how powerful the uniform is and how much weight it carries.""The loss of control is the worst feeling. It took me having a moment when I couldn't do anything, talk, or move to understand I needed help.""Once you verbalize it, you sort of see it, and they just kind of help you navigate, you know, how to sort of fix it.""Don't be afraid to be wrong. Don't be afraid to not know something. You're doing a disservice to yourself if you lie." You and your mental health is important to us. If this episode brought up any heavy emotions, please know you do not need to carry them alone. Reach out to Lifeline, Beyond Blue, or the counselling service at Hills Sanctuary house at hshl.org.au  Do subscribe to this podcast to get the latest episodes of Finding Sanctuary. Follow us on Facebook - Christ the Redeemer Maronite Catholic Parish of The Hills Instagram - @hills_sanctuary_house Blog - https://hshl.org.au/blog/

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About

Hills Sanctuary House (HSH) - https://hshl.org.au/ Finding Sanctuary - your  dose of insight into how we think and feel; and how you can find safe haven in your daily life. We get together with experts to chat about all things mental health, getting insights and understanding on the why's we do what we do. 

Information

  • Creator
    HSH Initiative
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    70
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Hills Sanctuary House
  • Show Website
    Finding Sanctuary

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