Inside Matters is a natural well-being company specialising in essential oils, red light therapy, and infrared sauna while sharing information and providing advice and guidance to those looking to enhance their health and wellbeing naturally. 

You have probably heard of the English idiom "don't judge a book by its cover" but how do we apply this metaphorical phrase when it comes to the products we use and the food we eat? and how can looking at this improve our wellbeing?

Most people believe and buy based on marketing which is often positioned to make you do just that - judge the product by its cover – but what is ready is inside?

I am a mum who lives in West Auckland and loves sports and our beautiful NZ outdoors. For 20 + years my health has been challenged by a genetic disorder called Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS), which was un-diagnosed until 2019. EDS affects how the body makes collagen and therefore impacts your connective tissue along with disrupting numerous body systems. As a result, I developed an immune system condition, Mast Cell Activation Disorder, which lead to multiple allergies, intolerances, and chemical sensitivities, and then Myalgia Encephalomyelitis (ME) commonly known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Since my diagnoses in 2018 and 2020, it's been a journey researching and trialing various treatments and lifestyle changes to support my physical and mental well-being and recovery. With these illnesses not being well recognised in the mainstream medical system, the majority of things that have helped are alternative therapies, medicines that are not funded, or treatments that require knowing the right doctor or specialist who understands the condition. Navigating the health system (public, private and alternative) has been a project in itself and by sharing my story I am hoping something I share may help someone else in a similar situation. 

Despite the impact these conditions have had on my life since my early 20s, I have always strived to live my best life. I played sport to a high level as a teenager but had to give this up when I was 21 and turned my focus to my career and dabbling in art. I fell into the event management space working on community events, which lead to an established career in project management. Highlights in my career included working for a Leadership development organisation based in London, but working in parts of Africa, Russia, China, and Brazil, then volunteering with an organisation that worked with Street Children in Tanzania. On my return to NZ, I worked for Youthline Auckland and Auckland Council's Community Action Youth and Drugs team, until I transitioned my career into the health and wellbeing space. 

These experiences have humbled and motivated me to always work in a way where I can make a difference in others' lives.