Hoogland Health Hydro

𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲

Winter is a time to strengthen your roots so new growth can burst forth in spring.

Time at Hoogland will give you the peace, solitude and deep rest to truly invest in your inner strength.

A team of health and medical professionals are at hand to support you and will gladly share their vast expertise with you in any area you need. They will aid you the Hoogland way: humbly and unhurriedly.

From now until 31 August 6 of our restful south-facing rooms are available for guests visiting on their own for much-needed me-time for the special rate of only R 1665pppn. Minimum of 2 nights.

𝙄𝙣𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙮 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜:

🦋 Private en-suite accommodation in a spacious north-facing room where the lazy winter sun streams through huge picturesque windows
🦋 Full use of all facilities such as saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, pools, and exercise facilities
🦋 Unlimited mineral water and herbal teas
🦋 Medically supervised water fasting of up to 3 days and guided refeeding for guests who choose to fast
🦋 Balanced Health Buffet (8h00 to 19h30) & 24-hour fresh fruit and salad
🦋 Health monitoring and advice from 7h30 to 17h30 with one of the nurses or consultants
🦋 Two guided nature walks daily (beautiful environment, rocky and hilly but well worth it)
🦋 Three exercise classes daily (stretch, aqua aerobics, pilates or dance)
🦋 Talks, workshops and demonstrations on health and wellbeing related matters
🦋 Guided Meditation
🦋 Breathing Training Class

Add health and medical consultations and tests, massage and beauty treatments as needed or choose a specialised package.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000

𝗪𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗺𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹:

Winter is a special time of introspection and internal growth: strengthening your roots so you can blossom in the spring.

Invest in your health and wellbeing at Hoogland this winter with warm people at homely fireplaces, in hot pools and toasty saunas.

From check-in 28 June to check-out 1 September all guests visiting on their own for some quality me-time will receive a complimentary upgrade to a sunny double Bushwillow room.

Every 3 full nights spent at our little piece of paradise one of of the following is on us:

Either:

🌸 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙞 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜:
- fat percentages, waist circumference and height ration
- urinalysis
- small selection of blood tests including CRP (inflammation), HbA1c (blood sugar regulation over preceding 6 weeks), differential white blood count, hemoglobin and cholesterol.
- Blood pressure and O2

or

🌸 𝙊𝙣𝙚 50 𝙢𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜:
- Psychologist
- Nutritionist
- Life Coach
- Biokineticist
- Chiropactor
- Homoeopath

Or

🌸 80𝙢𝙞𝙣 𝙎𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙃𝙤𝙤𝙜𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙 “𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙀𝙖𝙧𝙩𝙝” 𝙈𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙖𝙜𝙚.

This massage includes elements of fire (hot stone), earth (wood instruments rolled over the body for a unique experience, air (special infusion of aromas to stimulate a sense of wellbeing and nurturing) & water (rhythmical and continuous movements to mimic the ocean.

Or

🌸 80𝙢𝙞𝙣 𝙃𝙤𝙩 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙈𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙖𝙜𝙚

𝑀𝑎𝑠𝑠𝑎𝑔𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑎𝑝𝑦 𝑖𝑠 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑜𝑛𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑛 𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑢𝑙𝑔𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑝𝑟𝑖𝑣𝑖𝑙𝑒𝑔𝑒. 𝑃ℎ𝑦𝑠𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑜𝑢cℎ 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑓𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 ℎ𝑢𝑚𝑎𝑛𝑠 ℎ𝑒𝑙𝑝 𝑡𝑜 𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑒 𝑜𝑥𝑦𝑡𝑜𝑐𝑖𝑛 𝑙𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑠 𝑖𝑛 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑟𝑎𝑖𝑛 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑏𝑜𝑑𝑦. 𝑇ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑒𝑛ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒𝑠 𝑛𝑒𝑢𝑟𝑜𝑙𝑜𝑔𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑜𝑣𝑎𝑠𝑐𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑟 ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑙𝑡ℎ 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑛 ℎ𝑒𝑙𝑝 𝑡𝑜 ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑙 𝑑𝑎𝑚𝑎𝑔𝑒𝑑 ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑡 𝑚𝑢𝑠𝑐𝑙𝑒.

𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗥 𝟳 𝟯𝟮𝟱𝗽𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝟯 𝗻𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴:

🌼 Private en-suite accommodation in a spacious north-facing room where the lazy winter sun streams through huge picturesque windows
🌼 Full use of all facilities such as saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, pools, and exercise facilities
🌼 Unlimited mineral water and herbal teas
🌼 Medically supervised water fasting of up to 3 days and guided refeeding for guests who choose to fast
🌼 Balanced Health Buffet (8h00 to 19h30) & 24-hour fresh fruit and salad
🌼 Health monitoring and advice from 7h30 to 17h30 with one of the nurses or consultants
🌼 Two guided nature walks daily (beautiful environment, rocky and hilly but well worth it)
🌼 Three exercise classes daily (stretch, aqua aerobics, pilates or dance)
🌼 Talks, workshops and demonstrations on health and wellbeing related matters
🌼 Guided Meditation
🌼 Breathing Training Class

Add health and medical consultations and tests, massage and beauty treatments as needed or choose a specialized package.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000

* 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘴 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘳 𝘢 𝘷𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘶𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘧 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘶𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 3 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘥.

** 𝘖𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘦-𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘥 𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘶𝘱𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘢 𝘥𝘰𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘮, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘱𝘳𝘦-𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘥𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘲𝘶𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘭i𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘦𝘹𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 3-𝘯𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺𝘴.

𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻-𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗹𝘂𝘅𝘂𝗿𝘆 (𝗼𝗿 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆)

As the world starts to focus more on AI, substantial one-on-one time with fellow humans is fast becoming a luxury. There is an omnipresence of smartphones, online meetings, online consultations, online courses, social media, remote work and apps for just about everything.

Authentic in-person interactions are increasingly rare and this scarcity creates a need rarely satisfied in modern life.

Humans thrive on personal interactions. It is essential for intellectual, emotional and existential health. Machines can help our heart to pump, our lungs to breathe, our kidneys to filter, but they cannot replicate the complex multi-dimensional interaction between humans. Many machines or large language models will pretend to, but imitations of two souls connecting in space in time will always be a poor substitute for the real thing.

Personal interactions help with neurological health through the release of neurotransmitters such as oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine. These help with mood regulation, productive stress responses and overall feelings of wellbeing and happiness. They have many physical benefits as well and are neuro- and cardio- protective.

Personal interactions improve cognitive function. As essentially pro-social creatures, engaging in conversations and social activities challenges the brain, promoting cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. Regular social interaction can help keep the mind sharp and may even delay the onset of cognitive decline in older adults. It is powerful at preventing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

In person social interactions promotes brain plasticity. This growth and adaptability is vital for learning and recovery from brain injuries. Conversations and social activities often involve mental stimulation, which can help maintain and improve mental functions. Engaging with others can introduce new ideas, perspectives, and challenges, keeping the brain engaged, active and growing.

In-person social relationships can provide a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Feeling valued and connected to others can enhance overall life satisfaction and contribute to mental health.

However, our reliance on digital communication often leaves us feeling isolated and disconnected despite being constantly "connected." The irony is palpable: while technology promises to bring us closer, it frequently pulls us apart, creating a void that only genuine, one-on-one interactions can fill.

In an era where productivity and efficiency are often prioritized over personal relationships, dedicating time to one-on-one interactions signals a commitment to what truly matters.

This is why spending substantial time with another human, with mutual trust and admiration has become a precious commodity.

It's an investment in our emotional well-being and mental health. Deep conversations, shared experiences, and the simple presence of another person can provide a level of fulfillment that virtual interactions cannot match.

Hoogland help people to connect on a deep level. The atmosphere of caring and truly being interested in overall health and wellbeing spark social interactions in a very special way.

We have often noted how guests interacting with each other is one of the main reasons why Hoogland is such a healing place. There is enough space for solitude when needed, but when human connection is required it is available on a level rarely seen in the modern world.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000

𝗥𝗲𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗜𝗜: 𝟮𝟯 - 𝟮𝟴 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰
𝑭𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒌-𝒊𝒏 23 𝑱𝒖𝒏𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒌-𝒐𝒖𝒕 28 𝑱𝒖𝒏𝒆
*𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒎𝒖𝒎 𝒐𝒇 2 𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔

Some good news is that our off-grid hot water boiler was installed with great success and the aqua-aerobics pool is now a comfortable 24C - 26C throughout winter.

“𝗪𝗲 𝗱𝗶𝗱𝗻’𝘁 𝗱𝗼 𝗶𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘆 – 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝘄𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗴𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘆”

The not-so-good news is that, as everyone knows, Murphy is particularly active during times of building, renovations and related maintenance. At Hoogland we didn't escape his notice.

We were unable to complete our planned off-grid water installation due to delays in the delivery of pipes and fittings. For this reason we will have to do the actual installation from the 24th of June to the 28th of June.

The banging-and-smelling part of the renovation is now almost behind us, so there will be minimal noise. However, there will be a day of hot water restrictions in the bedrooms and people working on the new water system in the passages during the day (from 08:00 until 16:00 daily)

All the beautiful, spacious showers in the hydro-therapy area will be available and nothing is better than a lovely, long shower after a cleansing hydro cycle.

Therefore from check-in on the 23rd until check-out on the 28th the daily rate will be R 1 575pppn

During this time all services will run as per usual, except that Abraham and Christine will be away on a much-anticipated family vacation to teach the next generation of Krugers about work-life-balance.

𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗱:
🌼 Private en-suite accommodation. Please see accommodation details below.
🌼 Full use of all facilities such as saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, pools, and exercise facilities
🌼 Unlimited mineral water and herbal teas
🌼 Medically supervised water fasting of up to 3 days and guided refeeding for guests who choose to fast
🌼 Balanced Health Buffet (8h00 to 19h30) & 24-hour fresh fruit and salad
🌼 Health monitoring and advice from 7h30 to 17h30 with one of the nurses or consultants
🌼 Two guided nature walks daily (beautiful environment, rocky and hilly but well worth it)
🌼 Three exercise classes daily (stretch, aqua aerobics, pilates or dance)
🌼 Talks, workshops and demonstrations on health and wellbeing related matters
🌼 Guided Meditation
🌼 Breathing Training Class

Add health and medical consultations and tests, massage and beauty treatments as needed.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000

𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲

Stress triggers the release of hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which directly increases energy levels and alertness to assist with a productive stress response.

This can be beneficial in many stressful situations, but if the stressor is prolonged or unresolved, and is more typical of our chronic stress, it will lead to extended periods of elevation of these hormones, directly disrupting metabolic processes.

Elevated cortisol levels, in particular, can increase blood glucose levels by promoting gluconeogenesis and reducing insulin sensitivity, leading to insulin resistance. This means that the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone crucial for regulating blood sugar levels, resulting in elevated blood glucose levels, metabolic dysregulation, weight gain and type II diabetes.

𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗹𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲

𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑬𝒙𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒊𝒔𝒆 𝑫𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒇𝒖𝒍 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔:
Engaging in brief periods of exercise during stressful events can mitigate the adverse effects of stress on insulin sensitivity. Exercise helps reduce blood glucose levels by increasing the uptake of glucose by muscles, independent of insulin. It also lowers cortisol levels, countering one of the primary hormonal drivers of insulin resistance. Even short bursts of physical activity, such as walking or stretching, can be effective in managing stress and maintaining insulin sensitivity.

𝑳𝒐𝒘 𝑮𝒍𝒚𝒄𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒄 𝑰𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒙 𝑫𝒊𝒆𝒕:
A low glycemic index (GI) diet, which consists of foods that release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, can help manage insulin resistance. Foods with a low GI include whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits. These foods help maintain stable blood sugar levels and reduce the demand on the body to produce large amounts of insulin. This can be particularly beneficial during periods of stress, as it prevents the spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels that can exacerbate insulin resistance.

𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑭𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈:
Intermittent fasting (IF) involves alternating periods of eating and fasting. This dietary pattern has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels. During fasting periods, insulin levels decrease, and the body is encouraged to use stored glucose and fat for energy, which can help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. IF also promotes cellular repair processes and reduces inflammation, further supporting metabolic health.

𝑰𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒔𝒆 𝑺𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒆𝒔

Combining intermittent exercise, a low GI diet, and intermittent fasting can create a synergistic effect in managing stress-induced insulin resistance. Regular, brief exercise sessions during stressful times can immediately lower cortisol and blood glucose levels. Consuming low GI foods helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and reduces the burden on insulin. Intermittent fasting can enhance these effects by improving overall metabolic flexibility and reducing inflammation.

By adopting these strategies, individuals can better manage the metabolic challenges posed by chronic stress, potentially reducing the risk of developing insulin resistance, metabolic disorder and associated health issues such as type 2 diabetes.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000

𝐑𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝟐 - 𝟏𝟒 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

𝑭𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒌-𝒊𝒏 2 𝑱𝒖𝒏𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒄𝒌 𝒐𝒖𝒕 14 𝑱𝒖𝒏𝒆 – 𝑹 1575𝒑𝒑𝒑𝒏*
* 𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒎𝒖𝒎 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒇 3 𝒏𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔

During this time there will be some day-time noise and disruptions as we are replacing the hot-water system in the bedrooms, putting more solar in place and replacing flooring. All interruptions will be kept to a minimum but there may be smells of glue and paint and day-time noise.

𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗱:

🌼 Private en-suite accommodation. Please see accommodation details below.

🌼 Full use of all facilities such as saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, pools, and exercise facilities

🌼 Unlimited mineral water and herbal teas

🌼 Medically supervised water fasting of up to 3 days and guided refeeding for guests who choose to fast

🌼 Balanced Health Buffet (8h00 to 19h30) & 24-hour fresh fruit and salad

🌼 Health monitoring and advice from 7h30 to 17h30 with one of the nurses or consultants

🌼 Two guided nature walks daily (beautiful environment, rocky and hilly but well worth it)

🌼 Three exercise classes daily (stretch, aqua aerobics, pilates or dance)

🌼 Talks, workshops and demonstrations on health and wellbeing related matters

🌼 Guided Meditation

🌼 Breathing Training Class

Add health and medical consultations and tests, massage and beauty treatments as needed.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000

As we tumble into a time of rapidly advancing technology, human connection becomes the true luxury.

𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝗽𝗽.

During the last several years, more and more ‘health’ apps have been popping up everywhere. In 2023, these apps alone generated almost US $ 3.5 billion.

Not a day goes by without someone offering to build us an app, or asking our digital strategy or wanting to know how we will be integrating AI in our business.

Now I don’t believe I’m that old-fashioned. I am one of the first in my family to have used “AI-apps” as information filters, but I feel a visceral response every time someone wants to turn even a part of what we do into an autonomous digital intervention.

Apps are tools. Tools in unskilled hands can be gargantuanly destructive.

Wellbeing is not an app.

Spending time in a space created to improve wellbeing cannot be replicated with an app.

Technology is not up to mimicking being with people who’s very calling it is to improve the health and wellbeing of those around them.

There is no way an app can be proxy for a sauna, a splash in a cold pool, healing hands and the deep connection of open humanity.

Being in actual nature is not equal to anything simulated in an app. Nature is far too complex. Nature’s immense intricacy will seem imperfect to an app built on the ‘sunshine and rainbows’ version of nature humans want to believe in.

An app is unable to reconstruct nutritious food. Nutrition is enormously diverse and surprisingly particular.

The fact is that we know painfully little about how anything works and I find it disheartening that we think we can summarize any part of the human experience in an app.

We have intense debates about how the universe came into being and still argue about dark matter and the make-up of atoms.

No one truly knows what makes you you. I am in awe of this and, hopefully, so are you.

Be real with yourself and those around you. Challenge yourself, laugh at yourself, learn about yourself and the world, forgive yourself and others, be kind to yourself. And then, when you need help, reach out to those willing to be real with you.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸

Hoogland Recipe Book now for sale R 250 each plus postage.

Email [email protected] to order.

𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗷𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗽𝗲𝗮 𝗦𝘁𝗲𝘄

1 large onion - chopped
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 big eggplants - sliced into 1cm thick pieces
1 green bell pepper - chopped
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
1 k**b ginger - peeled and minced
420g chopped peeled tomatoes
300ml water
1 tin chickpeas - drained and rinsed well
1 tsp cumin
1 pinch saffron (optional)
4 Tbsp harissa paste (see recipe below)
½ cup fresh mint – stems removed and roughly chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

• In a dry hot pan cook the eggplant until it begins to brown slightly (about 3 -4 minutes on each side).
• In a heavy based pot sauté the onion and green pepper in the olive oil until the onion starts to turn translucent.
• Add the garlic, ginger and cumin, and cook for another 2 minutes.
• Add the harissa paste and cook until fragrant.
• Add the tomatoes, chickpeas and stir.
• Quarter the eggplant slices and stir into the tomato mix.
• Stir in the water and adjust the seasoning if needed and bring to a boil.
• Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the eggplant is tender.
• Stir in the fresh mint, adjust seasoning if needed, serve and enjoy.

𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙖 𝙋𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚
7 large dried red chillies
4 large fresh paprika peppers
1 large red bell pepper
50g tomato paste
4 cloves garlic – peeled (optional)
1 tsp caraway seeds
2 tsp coriander seeds
2 tsp cumin seeds
1 Tbsp koshering salt
1 tsp smoked paprika
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for consistency)
Juice of 1 large lemon

• Prepare the dried chillies: deseed the chillies and place them in a heatproof bowl. Cover with hot water and leave to soak for 30 minutes, until the chillies are rehydrated, drain the excess water.
• Over a flame (or in the oven) char the paprika and bell peppers until the skin starts to blacken and blister. Remove the seeds.
• Toast the caraway, coriander and cumin seeds in a dry hot pan and grind with the salt with a pestle and mortar.
• Combine the chillies, and peppers with the spices and the rest of the ingredients in a food processor. While it is running, drizzle a bit of extra olive oil into the mix until the desired consistency. (You are looking for a paste-like texture)
• Adjust the seasoning by adding salt and black pepper if desired.
• Store in a sealed glass jar with a little olive oil poured over the top. The paste’s flavour will deepen if left overnight, but its ready to use as is. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or portion and freeze for up to 3 months.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000

Last Minute Special

Check in between 2 and 7 April 2024
R 1665 per person per night
Minimum 2 nights, maximum 6 nights

Including:

• Private en-suite accommodation.
• Full use of all facilities such as saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, pools, and exercise facilities
• Unlimited mineral water and herbal teas
• Medically supervised water fasting of up to 3 days and guided refeeding for guests who choose to fast
• Balanced Health Buffet (8h00 to 19h30) & 24-hour fresh fruit and salad
• Health monitoring and advice from 7h30 to 17h30 with one of the nurses or consultants
• Two guided nature walks daily (beautiful environment, rocky and hilly but well worth it)
• Three exercise classes daily (stretch, aqua aerobics, Pilates or dance)
• Talks, workshops and demonstrations on health and wellbeing related matters
• Guided Meditation
• Breathing Training Class
• A free massage for every 3 days booked

𝗢𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽
𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐤-𝐛𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟖 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡
𝐎𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝟔𝟎𝟎 𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞

Commit to your and/or a loved one's long term health and wellbeing by buying into the Olienhout membership. Bed nights can be used and shared as needed for 5 years from date of purchase.

Buy a minimum of a 25 pre-purchased bed-nights at R 1 575 each to qualify, although 28 or 35 might be even better (4 or 5 week's).

Included in each bed-night is the following:
* Private en-suite accommodation. Mountain Karee rooms for single occupancy and Bushwillow rooms for guests sharing.
* Full use of all facilities such as saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, pools, and exercise facilities
* Unlimited mineral water and herbal teas
* Medically supervised water fasting of up to 3 days and guided refeeding for guests who choose to fast
* Balanced Health Buffet (8h00 to 19h30) & 24-hour fresh fruit and salad
* Health monitoring and advice from 7h30 to 17h30 with one of the nurses or consultants
* Two guided nature walks daily (beautiful environment, rocky and hilly but well worth it)
* Three exercise classes daily (stretch, aqua aerobics, pilates or dance)
* Talks, workshops and demonstrations on health and wellbeing related matters
* Guided Meditation
* Breathing Training Classes

Olienhout bed-nights can be booked any time of year subject to availability.

Accommodation is in single south-facing Mountain Karee rooms for guests visiting on their own and in the north-facing Bushwillow rooms for guests sharing.

Although Olienhout members get preference on complimentary upgrades, these are not guaranteed in advance. Complimentary upgrades are only available on arrival should there be sufficient availability and is available for a maximum of 5 days at a time.

Single guests on the Olienhout membership package can upgrade to double Bushwillow rooms for the reduced single surcharge or R300 per night.

Olienhout membership upgrades to Wild Orchid rooms are also at the reduced rate of R 200pppn. Additionally, should it be for single occupancy, an extra R 300 per night single surcharge will apply.

Check-in is from 14:00 and check-out until 13:00. Olienhout members can get discounted early arrival or late departure rate of R 600pp each, subject to availability.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000

Hoogland Health Hydro Lifestyle Health and Integrative Preventative Medical Center.

Hoogland provides allopathic health s

𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠

Dr André and I recently hiked in a true wilderness area: the very end of the Outeniqua mountains where trails haven’t been fully developed yet. It is rugged, steep and with verdant fynbos thickets requiring what can only be described as bundu-bashing. The elevation gain was almost 2 000’ and it took around 7 hours to complete the 9.5 km clambering, climbing hike.

He is 68 years old and tackled the mountain like a klipspringer, and even when the going got tough he didn’t quit. He just paused, caught his breath and admired the view.

It reminded me of the way he recently hiked the rugged Otter and stuck to his waster-fasting day each time we hiked the epic Fishriver.

What I used to think of as stubbornness, I now define as tenacity, perseverance, grit. This has defined much of how he tackles life. This also explains his physical vitality and mental acuity so admired by others.

Turns out being obstinate can be very good for us.

Our brains consist of about 60% white matter and around 40% gray matter. White matter helps various areas of the brain to communicate with each other, but it is the gray matter which is where all the processing happens. Gray matter is responsible for thinking, reasoning, sensation, perception, voluntary movement, learning, speech and cognition.

As we get older, the amount of gray matter typically reduces. So although various parts of our brain still chat, they have less to talk about and then slowly start to go silent.

However, consistently doing hard things we are interested in, protects or even increases gray matter.

This is especially true for the gray matter of a fascinating part of your brain called the anterior mid-cinculate cortex. Here our brain connects and coordinates physical, cognitive and emotional functions in an intricate way. Its health is essential for our working memories, problem solving abilities, emotional regulation, social interactions, proprioception, physical balance and coordination.

For instance, when you consistently work at learning a new language, do regular music lessons, attend challenging weekly art classes, you not only grow your mental skills for these activities, your physical coordination and your emotional regulation improves as well.

If you persist at a challenging physical activity: ballroom dancing lessons, personal training sessions, advanced yoga classes, training for an ultra-marathon, taking up tennis, you not only improve our physical strength and coordination, but your cognitive and affective health as well.

Even sticking to an intermittent fasting schedule is a way to improve the size and function of the anterior mid-cingulet cortex.

The trick is to do something which does not come naturally for you, but something you really would like to do, and then persevere.

Then, when you master it, find a new hard thing.

This sounds easy but can be daunting. As adults we often fear failure. If this holds you back, it is important to redefine failure. As Thomas Edison famously said: “I didn’t fail, I just found 10 000 ways that won’t work”

When you do hard things and stick to it, no matter how bad you are at it you are already succeeding. Succeeding in growing and supporting a healthy, happy brain and body.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000

Today would have been the 100th birthday of the founding matriarch of Hoogland Hydro.

Annette Susan Kruger (nee Du Toit) was born 5 February 1924 and her birth was a great gift to humanity.

Many at Hoogland will remember her as a multi-talented nature lover who could out-hike most visitors in our rugged Schurweberg hills well into her 80s.

She is fondly remembered for her impressive knowledge of local flora and fauna, an avid birder. She inspired even the not-so-talented guests to give pressed flower cards a try: all made from flowers picked on the Hoogland reserve. She presented cooking demonstrations to initiate the ‘boerekos’ generation to the joy of healthy eating as early as the 70s and understood that health and wellbeing was about so much more than the absence of disease.

Her spirit lives on and those who knew her feel her presence in the picturesque trails and the kindness of all who have found their purpose by working at Hoogland.

𝗠𝗲-𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲

The origin of Valentine’s day, as with many “Hallmark Holidays” or “Cardies Days” is unclear, but researching the evolution of our cultural customs are always fascinating.

People have been celebrating valentine’s day with cards and gifts since at least the 1500’s in Europe and this tradition has spread to much of the world since then.

Sometimes, however, the best thing you can do for a loved one is to allow them some proper me-time. In a fast-paced world with so many social obligations, me-time is sorely lacking for many, especially us introverts.

We all need a bit of me-time….

Introverts tend to gain energy from being alone or with a few close friends. We prefer to focus on our inner world of thoughts and feelings, rather than the outer world of people and things. Introverts lose energy from being in large groups or social situations.

One of the reasons why introverts need me time is because we have a different brain chemistry than extroverts, who are more outgoing and sociable. Introverts are very sensitive to dopamine, the molecule of reward that makes us feel happy and motivated when we do something exciting or rewarding.

Extroverts need more of this neurotransmitter to feel the same level of happiness, which is why they often seek out more stimulation and variety.

Introverts also have a higher need for acetylcholine than extroverts. This neurotransmitter drives feelings of content and calmness when we focus inwardly or engage in an activity requiring extended periods of focus.

This is why introverts enjoy activities such as reading, writing, meditating, or learning something new.

Another reason why introverts need me-time is because we process information more deeply and thoroughly than extroverts. Introverts pay more attention to details, nuances, and emotions, which can be overwhelming and exhausting in a noisy or busy environment.

Introverts need time alone to reflect on their experiences, sort out their thoughts and feelings, and recharge their mental energy.

Me-time is also important for introverts because it allows us to pursue our passions and interests without the pressure or expectations of others.

Introverts are often creative, curious, and independent thinkers, who enjoy exploring complex ideas and problems. Me-time provides the space and freedom introverts need to express themselves and grow as individuals.

Extroverts are people who gain energy from social interactions and enjoy being around others but even they can do with some alone time to recharge, relax, and reflect.

Spending too much time with people can be overstimulating and exhausting for anyone, regardless of their personality type.
For most of us me-time allows us time to put things into perspective, prioritize and focus.

Me-time is not a sign of selfishness or weakness, but a sign of self-care and respect.

𝗠𝗲-𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗩𝗼𝘂𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿

This Valentine’s day, spoil a loved one or treat yourself with a Me-time Voucher.

R 5 200 for 3 nights including:
• Three nights’ private en-suite accommodation.
• One heart-healthy full body massage
• Full use of all facilities such as saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis, pools, and exercise facilities
• Unlimited mineral water and herbal teas
• Medically supervised water fasting of up to 3 days and guided refeeding for guests who choose to fast
• Balanced Health Buffet (8h00 to 19h30) & 24-hour fresh fruit and salad
• Health monitoring and advice from 7h30 to 17h30 with one of the nurses or consultants
• Two guided nature walks daily (beautiful environment, rocky and hilly but well worth it)
• Three exercise classes daily (stretch, aqua aerobics, pilates or dance)
• Talks, workshops and demonstrations on health and wellbeing related matters
• Guided Meditation
• Breathing Training Classes

As well as one heart-healthy, oxytocin releasing full body massage

Only 25 vouchers available.
Cannot be used towards existing reservations
Validity of voucher is from 14 February - check-out 13 December 2024
Booking in Mountain Karee Room and subject to availability.

𝗛𝗼𝗼𝗴𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗛𝘆𝗱𝗿𝗼
Lifestyle Medicine Institute
www.hoogland.co.za
[email protected]
Tel: + 27 (0) 12 023 0224
Cell/WhatsApp/Signal/Telegram: + 27 (0) 84 830 4000