Wellbeing | The Runway

Wellbeing is essential to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) as it directly impacts operational readiness, performance, and overall morale. When ADF personnel are physically fit, mentally resilient, and emotionally balanced, they can fulfil their duties effectively, make sound decisions, and enhance team dynamics. Prioritizing wellbeing creates a supportive environment, recognizes the sacrifices of personnel, and improves job satisfaction and retention. It also proactively addresses mental health challenges, reduces stress, and promotes psychological resilience among ADF members. By investing in the wellbeing of its personnel, the ADF ensures readiness, cohesion, and the overall success of military missions.

Deep sleep helps the heart to heal

Following a heart attack, immune cells called ‘monocytes’ are recruited to the brain to promote deep sleep. This limits the activity of the sympathetic nervous system, lowering heart rate and blood pressure to facilitate healing.

Bird Flu Found in U.S. Pig Raises Concerns Over Pandemic Risk

The first case of bird flu found in a U.S. pig has alarmed experts, given the potential for pigs to act as “mixing vessels” for flu viruses that could adapt to infect humans.

How Light Can Shift Your Mood and Mental Health

Exposure to natural light and managing night-time brightness can improve mood stability and support mental health by synchronising natural circadian rhythms. Season changes affect energy and mood stability while Serotonin and dopamine shifts affect mood regulation

Body Roundness Can Predict Heart Disease Risk, Study Shows

This article discusses a study comparing Body Roundness Index (BRI) to Body Mass Index (BMI) for predicting cardiovascular disease risk in adults. BRI may offer more accuracy than BMI, especially for athletic military members.

If You Hate Running, Try 'Rucking'

Rucking, a new fitness trend inspired by military training, offers a steady-state cardio workout by walking with a weighted pack—building fitness while enhancing mental resilience—making it perfect for those who prefer outdoor activities without running.

How to handle an inheritance: the 3 key factors

This article explores the emotional and financial complexities of inheriting money, emphasising how stress reduction and expert advice can help navigate irrational family behaviour and avoid hasty decisions, ensuring better long-term financial planning and emotional well-being.

Lessons for the next pandemic: where did Australia go right and wrong in responding to COVID?

Australia's pandemic response showed strong vaccine uptake but revealed key issues in quarantine breaches, treatment distribution, and national disunity—cognitive resilience will be vital to ensure a cohesive legislative framework for future emergency responses.

Does Being Religious Promote Well-Being?

Many studies show an association between religious faith and psychological health—but it’s not quite that simple.

'Game-changer' sleep study could help millions of Australians suffering from chronic pain

A Queensland study is examining how sleep affects chronic pain, potentially transforming treatment approaches for millions of Australians struggling with long-term pain.

Snakes are waking up. What should you do if you’re bitten? And what if you’re a long way from help?

As snake season begins, encounters between humans and snakes rise, especially in rural areas. This article emphasises the importance of preparedness, focusing on challenges like first-aid knowledge.