Embrace the path to your best self
“The common underlying factor is that wellness focuses holistically on the person and ability to live the life they desire, rather than focusing on disease, its prevention or amelioration.”
Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA)
Even in the face of cancer, WellAhead inspires a life of positivity and strength, helping you to not just survive, but thrive.
More than just a wellness program; it’s a journey towards a brighter, healthier future. It empowers you to take charge of your health, equipping you with the tools and support needed to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience.
Our activities, including Qigong and yoga classes, the Northern Health Community Choir and special programs for seniors from Whittlesea U3A – all tailored to nurture your well-being.
Aligned with Northern Health’s Trusted Care Commitment of ‘Staying Well’ WellAhead is dedicated to enhancing community health and wellbeing, offering services that extend far beyond the traditional hospital setting.
The Wellness Lounge
Discover Tranquillity
Step into the serene comfort of the Wellness Lounge, nestled in Ward 5 at Northern Hospital Epping. This peaceful space is exclusively for those living with and beyond cancer. Allow the world to fade away as you reconnect with your body and mind.
Equipped with massage chairs and comfy sofas, you can enjoy the changing seasons in the garden outside.
Programs on offer
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yoga: (11 am – 12 pm) Whittlesea Community Connections |
Qigong: (11 am – 12 pm) Whittlesea Community Connections |
Starting in February, 2025
Yoga
Yoga is a gentle yet powerful tool that can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by cancer.
From 4 February, we recommence yoga classes, at a new venue and under a new teacher, Nilaaginee Jeyanthan. Nilaaginee holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Yoga from the Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda University, Coimbatore, India.
Her classes take a holistic approach to wellness, integrating yoga with pranayama (breath control).
“I enjoyed participating in the yoga session because I was able to move my body and connect with people who have gone through similar struggles.”
Starting February 4, 2025
Every Tuesday,11 am-12 noon
Whittlesea Community Connections
Community Room 112B, Pacific Epping High St, Epping VIC 3076,
Qigong
At this same venue, join Belinda D’Souza from 11 am to 12 pm every Wednesday starting 5 February. Qigong blends breathing and movement to harmonise your mind, body, and spirit. This ancient Chinese practice is designed to enhance energy flow, promote relaxation, and support overall wellness. Research suggests it can help alleviate cancer-related fatigue, boost physical activity, and improve sleep.
Belinda brings over 10 years of experience in martial arts, including Tai Chi and Qigong. She holds a black belt in Taekwondo and is currently studying Chinese Medicine at RMIT.
This initiative is a collaboration with the Discipline of Chinese Medicine at the School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University.
“The Qigong classes have helped me with my breathing. I would recommend the program to anyone who is going through their cancer journey like me.”
Starting February 5, 2025
Every Wednesday,11 am-12 noon
Whittlesea Community Connections
Community Room 112B, Pacific Epping High St, Epping VIC 3076,
Volunteer Program
Volunteering can build a sense of community and connection, offering emotional support to both volunteers and those they help. It also promotes personal growth and fulfillment, as volunteers gain new skills and experience the satisfaction of making a positive impact
Volunteers assist in a variety of roles including administrative support within our health service, fundraising initiatives and visiting patients. Knitting and crocheting is another volunteer activity, both to create gifts for patients and for fundraising.
For more information or queries, please email volunteer@nh.org.au.
Northern Health Community Choir
Research suggests that singing results in a range of positive physical, mental health, emotional, and wellbeing outcomes and leads to greater cognitive reserves as we age.
The Northern Health Community Choir is an inclusive forum, that welcomes membership not only from our staff but also members of the local community.
Currently, Northern Health Community Choir rehearses at Northern Health, Epping, every Wednesday at lunchtime (12.30 until 1.30) and Friday morning (8.30 until 9.30). However, in 2025, additional times and venues may be added if there is sufficient interest.
To register your interest or to find out more, contact Alison Davies at Alison.Davies@nh.org.au
For more information on the WellAhead program, please email Mike Masilamani, Project Officer, Wellbeing Program, Cancer Services: mike.masilamani@nh.org.au
