Quality of Life Quest

In this episode, Anneke shares her unique journey from being an engineer to becoming a healthcare assistant in the NHS. She discusses the friction between alternative and modern healthcare, highlighting the merits of both.

Anneke explains her motivations for working in a role often seen as the lowest in the NHS, emphasizing the invaluable insights she gains from caring for patients in acute medical settings. She reflects on the challenges and emotional demands of the job, the importance of understanding when to refer patients to emergency care, and her aspirations to open her own healthcare center in the future.

Social Links

https://www.instagram.com/thequalityoflifequest/
https://www.tiktok.com/@thequalityoflifequest

Anneke is an engineer who immersed herself in alternative healthcare after she almost died in hospital. Working in that field since 2000. Trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy, Hypnosis, Reiki master, Sports-massage therapist and some other modalities. Currently she is training to be a naturopath whilst working as a healthcare assistant in the Acute Medical Unit. She is looking for the good bits of modern healthcare, which is in the acute setting in her opinion.

In no way, shape or form does she suggest to have life figured out. Hence the quest. There is always more to learn and more insights to be gained. Life is messy and full of surprises and curve balls.

Come along for the ride.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this introspective episode of the Quality of Life Quest, Anneke, a therapist turned patient, shares her journey through a challenging period of healing and self-discovery. Taking a sabbatical from her various therapeutic practices, she candidly discusses the toll that life’s unexpected challenges—such as multiple unplanned moves, personal loss, and the pressures of work—have taken on her well-being. Anneke reflects on the importance of self-care, emphasizing the need to prioritize rest and nutrition while navigating the complexities of her mental and physical health. She introduces the concept of "low-hanging fruit," encouraging listeners to focus on manageable steps toward wellness rather than overwhelming themselves with unattainable goals. Throughout the episode, she highlights the significance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals and the value of giving oneself grace during difficult times. With a blend of vulnerability and insight, Anneke offers a heartfelt reminder that healing is a journey, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time.

Key Takeaways

00:05:15: Quote about prioritizing wellness to avoid illness.

00:10:09 : Anneke seeks low-hanging fruit for manageable self-care tasks.

00:18:10: Importance of making time for health after illness.

00:27:05 : Encouragement to be kind to oneself during challenging times.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you don't make time for your wellness, you will be forced to make time for your illness."

"What is simple for one person is not simple for the other, and my low-hanging fruits are different from anyone else's low-hanging fruits."

"Rest is really, really, really important. Sleeping well. Aiming to keep a rhythm in your life day and night."

"Give yourself grace. Surround yourself with people who can help you, who support you."

"Time passes anyway, and there's no point in putting yourself down. Stay as positive as you can and make the most of it."

Social Links

https://www.instagram.com/thequalityoflifequest/
https://www.tiktok.com/@thequalityoflifequest

Anneke is an engineer who immersed herself in alternative healthcare after she almost died in hospital. Working in that field since 2000. Trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy, Hypnosis, Reiki master, Sports-massage therapist and some other modalities. Currently she is training to be a naturopath whilst working as a healthcare assistant in the Acute Medical Unit. She is looking for the good bits of modern healthcare, which is in the acute setting in her opinion.

In no way, shape or form does she suggest to have life figured out. Hence the quest. There is always more to learn and more insights to be gained. Life is messy and full of surprises and curve balls.

Come along for the ride.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of the Quality of Life Quest, Anneke delves into the crucial topic of reintroducing food after experiencing diarrhea and vomiting. Drawing from personal experiences and insights gained from her time in the hospital, she emphasizes the importance of starting with easily digestible foods, particularly broth—whether vegetable or bone broth—rich in salt and minerals to help stimulate the digestive system. Anneke shares her own struggles with reintroducing food, recounting how she learned the hard way that certain foods, like toast and raw vegetables, can exacerbate digestive discomfort. She advises listeners to approach food reintroduction gently, likening it to baby food consistency, and encourages the inclusion of fermented foods and well-cooked proteins. Throughout the episode, she highlights the significance of proper chewing and the need to listen to one’s body, urging caution and gradual progression to avoid further discomfort. With practical tips and a compassionate tone, Anneke equips her audience with the knowledge to navigate the often painful process of recovery after gastrointestinal distress.

Key Takeaways

00:00:12: Start reintroducing food with broth for easier digestion.

00:01:04: Diarrhea and vomiting leave the digestive system empty.

00:07:19: Avoid hard-to-digest foods like raw vegetables and rare steak.

00:10:00: Herbal teas, like ginger, can aid digestion post-illness.

00:14:27: Making broth is a simple, essential skill for recovery.

Host Bio

Anneke is an engineer who immersed herself in alternative healthcare after she almost died in hospital. Working in that field since 2000. Trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy, Hypnosis, Reiki master, Sports-massage therapist and some other modalities. Currently she is training to be a naturopath whilst working as a healthcare assistant in the Acute Medical Unit. She is looking for the good bits of modern healthcare, which is in the acute setting in her opinion.

In no way, shape or form does she suggest to have life figured out. Hence the quest. There is always more to learn and more insights to be gained. Life is messy and full of surprises and curve balls.

Come along for the ride.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of the Quality of Life Quest, Anneke delves into the often-overlooked concept of a patient diary, emphasising its importance in navigating the chaotic environment of hospitals. Drawing from personal experiences, including her time caring for her mother in a care home, Anneke highlights how writing things down can create order amidst confusion, making it easier for patients and their families to track medical information and formulate questions. She discusses the challenges faced by patients and their loved ones during hospital visits, particularly the difficulty in retaining information from quick doctor consultations. By encouraging listeners to keep a diary or notes, Anneke illustrates how this simple tool can enhance communication, reduce stress, and foster a sense of control over one's healthcare journey. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to try implementing a patient diary, promising that it can significantly improve the hospital experience for both patients and their families.

Key Takeaways

00:01:05 - Introduction to Patient Diary
Discusses the importance of a patient diary in healthcare.

00:02:08 - Confusion in Hospitals
Highlights the chaotic environment and confusion patients face in hospitals.

00:04:38 - Benefits of Writing Things Down
Emphasizes how writing helps create order and clarity in healthcare.

00:10:28 - Preparing Questions for Doctors
Encourages patients and families to prepare questions for better understanding.

00:20:43 - Impact of a Patient Diary
A simple tool that can significantly reduce stress and improve communication.

Social Links

https://www.instagram.com/thequalityoflifequest/
https://www.tiktok.com/@thequalityoflifequest

Anneke is an engineer who immersed herself in alternative healthcare after she almost died in hospital. Working in that field since 2000. Trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy, Hypnosis, Reiki master, Sports-massage therapist and some other modalities. Currently she is training to be a naturopath whilst working as a healthcare assistant in the Acute Medical Unit. She is looking for the good bits of modern healthcare, which is in the acute setting in her opinion.

In no way, shape or form does she suggest to have life figured out. Hence the quest. There is always more to learn and more insights to be gained. Life is messy and full of surprises and curve balls.

Come along for the ride.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of the "Quality of Life Quest," Anneke shares her personal journey navigating health care, specifically focusing on her experiences with endoscopies due to recent swallowing difficulties. She candidly discusses the emotional and physical challenges she faces, including the anxiety surrounding medical procedures and the feeling of vulnerability that accompanies them. Anneke emphasizes the importance of obtaining the correct diagnosis and the balance between modern medicine and alternative health care approaches. Throughout the episode, she reflects on her interactions with healthcare professionals, the significance of informed consent, and the need for patients to advocate for themselves. With a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice, Anneke aims to empower listeners to take charge of their health care decisions while acknowledging the emotional weight that often accompanies medical issues.

Key Takeaways

00:01:08: Introduction to the episode's theme: balance in healthcare and personal experiences.

00:05:32: Anneke shares her experience with multiple endoscopies and doctor consultations.

00:10:00: Importance of patient choice and taking time to consider medical options.

00:15:57: Hope for recovery through a combination of modern healthcare and personal wellness.

https://www.instagram.com/thequalityoflifequest/
https://www.tiktok.com/@thequalityoflifequest

Host Bio

Anneke is an engineer who immersed herself in alternative healthcare after she almost died in hospital. Working in that field since 2000. Trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy, Hypnosis, Reiki master, Sports-massage therapist and some other modalities. Currently she is training to be a naturopath whilst working as a healthcare assistant in the Acute Medical Unit. She is looking for the good bits of modern healthcare, which is in the acute setting in her opinion.

In no way, shape or form does she suggest to have life figured out. Hence the quest. There is always more to learn and more insights to be gained. Life is messy and full of surprises and curve balls.

Come along for the ride.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of "The Quality of Life Quest," Anneke shares her personal struggles with stress and overwhelming life challenges, revealing a raw and relatable perspective. She opens up about her recent experiences, including a series of frustrating interactions with various companies and the relentless pressure that has led her to take a break from work. As she navigates through feelings of anger and rage, Anneke emphasizes the importance of acknowledging one's reality while maintaining a positive outlook. She discusses the significance of reaching out to friends for support, the necessity of formulating plans to tackle ongoing issues, and the therapeutic power of deep breaths. Throughout the episode, she reassures listeners that they are not alone in their struggles, encouraging them to celebrate small victories and find reasons to keep going despite life's challenges. With a blend of vulnerability and resilience, Anneke aims to inspire others to confront their difficulties and seek connection in times of distress.

Key Takeaways

00:02:06: She shares her emotional breakdown during a routine checkup.

00:05:19: Anneke expresses frustration over ongoing legal and financial issues.

00:10:12: She emphasizes the importance of not feeling alone in struggles.

00:12:51 : Anneke encourages finding reasons to live and celebrate survival.

BEST MOMENTS

"You're definitely not alone. There are lots of people in similar situations, and for whatever reason, the world has gone mad."

"Sometimes you just have to have a cry. Just let it all out. You know, the ugly cry."

"If I don't stand up for myself, no one else will do that. And if you don't stand up for yourself, who will do that?"

"Celebrate that you have survived another day, which sounds really dramatic, but the things that have happened to me over the last couple of years have brought me to the edge of the will to live."

"Try to formulate a plan, because if I don't deal with it, I can't put my head in the sand. That's not going to solve anything."

Social Links

https://www.instagram.com/thequalityoflifequest/
https://www.tiktok.com/@thequalityoflifequest

Anneke is an engineer who immersed herself in alternative healthcare after she almost died in hospital. Working in that field since 2000. Trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy, Hypnosis, Reiki master, Sports-massage therapist and some other modalities. Currently she is training to be a naturopath whilst working as a healthcare assistant in the Acute Medical Unit. She is looking for the good bits of modern healthcare, which is in the acute setting in her opinion.

In no way, shape or form does she suggest to have life figured out. Hence the quest. There is always more to learn and more insights to be gained. Life is messy and full of surprises and curve balls.

Come along for the ride.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Anneke shares a deeply personal and frustrating experience with Scottish Power, detailing a series of ongoing issues related to their smart meter and billing practices. The conversation reveals a tangled web of complaints, anxiety, and a sense of helplessness as the host recounts their attempts to resolve these matters, including a formal request for all data held by the company. Throughout the discussion, the host expresses their growing frustration with the lack of clarity and resolution, highlighting the emotional toll this situation has taken on their mental health. They describe the absurdity of receiving incorrect bills, the stress of dealing with debt collection agencies, and the bureaucratic hurdles faced with local council tax issues. The episode serves as a candid reflection on the challenges of navigating corporate customer service, the importance of vigilance in managing personal data, and the need for community support during difficult times. With a mix of humor and exasperation, the host emphasizes that they are not alone in this struggle, encouraging listeners to find solidarity and strength in their own experiences.

Key Takeaways

00:05:56: Speaker expresses frustration over anxiety caused by Scottish Power's treatment.

00:08:07: Discussion of ongoing issues with Scottish Power and lack of resolution.

00:10:08: Speaker recounts a shocking billing error of £2,000 deduction.

00:30:43: Emphasis on vigilance regarding bills and data protection against companies.

BEST MOMENTS

"If something happens to me now that has a certain vibe, it's the Scottish Power vibe."

"I have never in my life done anxiety. It did not feature in my vocabulary. Well, Scottish Power has trained me well. I now do anxiety."

"You need to know that you're not the only one. You need to know that this is a thing that's happening and it's not on just one front. It's on two, three, four fronts all at the same time."

"Be vigilant about bills. Be vigilant about data protection. Don't give out your details to anyone."

"Sometimes it's just good to get it off your chest and at this moment in time this is the medium so it's fine."

Host Bio

Anneke is an engineer who immersed herself in alternative healthcare after she almost died in hospital. Working in that field since 2000. Trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy, Hypnosis, Reiki master, Sports-massage therapist and some other modalities. Currently she is training to be a naturopath whilst working as a healthcare assistant in the Acute Medical Unit. She is looking for the good bits of modern healthcare, which is in the acute setting in her opinion.

In no way, shape or form does she suggest to have life figured out. Hence the quest. There is always more to learn and more insights to be gained. Life is messy and full of surprises and curve balls.

Come along for the ride.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of the Quality of Life Quest, Anneke shares her personal journey, detailing her aspirations to own a smallholding where she can grow her own food, herbs, and flowers, while also creating a healing space for others. She reflects on her life experiences, including her education in horticulture and international agricultural trade, and her transition to the UK with her young family. Anneke recounts a harrowing medical ordeal involving a burst appendix and subsequent complications, which led her to explore alternative healing methods such as Reiki and herbalism. Through her recovery, she developed a passion for holistic health, studying various modalities including NLP and sports massage. Now, as she balances her work as a healthcare assistant in the NHS with her studies to become a naturopath, Anneke expresses her desire to put down roots in Great Britain and help others on their healing journeys. The episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, personal growth, and the quest for a fulfilling life.

Key Takeaways

00:01:42 Background in horticulture and international agricultural trade; teaching gymnastics and ballet.

00:08:01 : Experienced severe health issues after a burst appendix; close to death.

00:14:08 : Recovery from surgery improved with herbal remedies and nutritional advice.

00:20:52 : Aspires to own land for healing and personal fulfillment in Great Britain.

BEST MOMENTS

"The dream is to own a smallholding... to create a space for people to come and stay to heal."

"I was as close to death as you can be without actually dying."

"I thought, I don't need fattening up. I need building up."

"I find it very satisfying to see that difference... to just see people coming in at the beginning of the day and then to see them light up during the time I'm working with them."

"For my quality of life, even though I would buy myself an awful lot of work, it doesn't feel like work because it is what I really, truly deep inside me."

Social Links

https://www.instagram.com/thequalityoflifequest/
https://www.tiktok.com/@thequalityoflifequest

Anneke is an engineer who immersed herself in alternative healthcare after she almost died in hospital. Working in that field since 2000. Trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy, Hypnosis, Reiki master, Sports-massage therapist and some other modalities. Currently she is training to be a naturopath whilst working as a healthcare assistant in the Acute Medical Unit. She is looking for the good bits of modern healthcare, which is in the acute setting in her opinion.

In no way, shape or form does she suggest to have life figured out. Hence the quest. There is always more to learn and more insights to be gained. Life is messy and full of surprises and curve balls.

Come along for the ride.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of the "Quality of Life Quest," Anneke delves into the inevitable ups and downs of life and their impact on our overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of developing good habits during times of stability to better cope with future challenges, citing the adage, "you don't rise to the occasion, you sink to the level of your training." Through personal anecdotes, including her emotional experiences during a recent trip to the Netherlands, Anneke illustrates the profound effects of grief and stress on daily life. She offers a comprehensive toolkit of coping strategies, such as talking to someone, journaling, engaging in creative activities, practicing mindfulness, and spending time in nature. Throughout the episode, she encourages listeners to proactively prepare for life's inevitable difficulties by cultivating resilience and self-awareness, ultimately reminding them that even in the depths of despair, there can be valuable lessons and opportunities for growth.

Key Takeaways

00:01:08: This episode is not medical advice; seek professionals for serious issues.

00:03:18: Life has ups and downs; prepare for tough times ahead.

00:12:07: Emotional struggles can lead to crying and feeling out of sorts.

00:40:44: Life's ups and downs provide perspective; prepare and train for challenges.

BEST MOMENTS

"You don't rise to the challenge, you sink to the level of your training."

"When you are in the depths of despair, you then recognize that your life wasn't that bad after all."

"It's the ups and downs in life that give you perspective."

"If you're going through a rough patch, that might be something to think about. Am I living the life of my dreams?"

"Prepare yourself by adopting some of the practices mentioned above. Practice when your life is ticking along, it's going fine."

Host Bio

Anneke is an engineer who immersed herself in alternative healthcare after she almost died in hospital. Working in that field since 2000. Trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy, Hypnosis, Reiki master, Sports-massage therapist and some other modalities. Currently she is training to be a naturopath whilst working as a healthcare assistant in the Acute Medical Unit. She is looking for the good bits of modern healthcare, which is in the acute setting in her opinion.

In no way, shape or form does she suggest to have life figured out. Hence the quest. There is always more to learn and more insights to be gained. Life is messy and full of surprises and curve balls.

Come along for the ride.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of the "Quality of Life Quest," Anneke shares a gripping account of her experience during a severe storm that disrupted her commute to work at a hospital. As the rain poured relentlessly, she navigated treacherous flooded roads, relying on the wake of a truck to guide her through a particularly daunting stretch. Once at the hospital, the situation escalated as more visitors arrived with their own harrowing stories, and by the end of her shift, Anneke found herself stranded due to impassable roads. However, with the help of a colleague, she discovered a volunteer transport service using 4x4 vehicles to assist staff in getting home. When it became clear that she would have to wait for a ride, Anneke opted for a room designated for on-call doctors, where she enjoyed a restful night’s sleep. Reflecting on her experience, she emphasizes the importance of staying calm amidst chaos, recognizing that her lack of urgency allowed her to navigate the situation with clarity and gratitude for those who helped her along the way. The episode serves as a reminder to take a step back, breathe, and assess whether a problem truly applies to us, ultimately transforming an unexpected storm into a manageable breeze.

Key Takeaways

00:01:10: Anneke faced heavy rain while driving to work, creating a challenging commute.

00:04:37: Anneke was stranded after her shift, unable to find a way home.

00:08:01: A porter helped Anneke secure a room for the night at the hospital.

00:10:00: The next morning, Anneke learned the main road was clear for her return.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was driving behind this truck, and if you stay close enough to something like a truck, it creates a wake and you can drive in the wake of that truck."

"I felt like one of the patients who's been told that they can go home. It was like, yeah, freedom."

"I had the luxury that there was no pressing reason for me to go. But for me to be able to step back, to realize that, to realize that there was no pressure for me..."

"I'm so grateful for my colleague who told me about this service that's available of volunteers who drive you home."

"This unexpected storm in my life kind of turned into a breeze. It was all right in the end."

Host Bio

Anneke is an engineer who immersed herself in alternative healthcare after she almost died in hospital. Working in that field since 2000. Trainer of NLP, Time Line Therapy, Hypnosis, Reiki master, Sports-massage therapist and some other modalities. Currently she is training to be a naturopath whilst working as a healthcare assistant in the Acute Medical Unit. She is looking for the good bits of modern healthcare, which is in the acute setting in her opinion.

In no way, shape or form does she suggest to have life figured out. Hence the quest. There is always more to learn and more insights to be gained. Life is messy and full of surprises and curve balls.

Come along for the ride.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/