Ruatahi Medical Centre

26/02/2026

We’re often our own harshest critics.

In this five-minute read, Emily Priddy shares a simple but powerful way to quiet that inner voice.

It’s not about pretending the voice isn’t there. It’s about changing how you respond to it. 👇

Overcome self-criticism with Simon Sinek’s guide to self-compassion. Learn to name your inner critic, forgive mistakes, celebrate wins, and self-check for a happier life.

25/02/2026

Around 320,000 people in New Zealand are affected by diabetes.

Why is this significant? Because diabetes increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.

The good news is there are practical steps you can take to lower that risk and protect your heart.

Learn more here 👉
https://www.heartfoundation.org.nz/wellbeing/managing-risk/diabetes-and-heart-disease

23/02/2026

Did you know that one in four deaths from heart disease and stroke are avoidable with the right prevention and treatment?

This Heart Health Awareness Month, protect your heart by learning your risk and finding out when to book an appointment with your doctor or nurse using MyHeartCheck.

It’s one of the simplest ways to take a step towards better heart health.

👉 https://myheartcheck.org.nz/

19/02/2026

Healthy lunchboxes don’t have to be complicated. 😮

The Heart Foundation’s lunchbox ideas are packed with practical tips to make things quicker, easier, and heart-healthy for the whole whānau this Heart Health Awareness Month and beyond.

Take a look here 👉 https://hfnz.org/45WI6WO

19/02/2026

Ramadan Mubarak 🌙✨

As Ramadan begins, we send our warm wishes to everyone observing this special month. We hope it is a time of reflection, generosity and connection, and that you and your whānau experience good health and peace throughout.

Wishing you strength and calm in the weeks ahead. 💛

17/02/2026

If the extreme weather across Aotearoa has left you feeling shaken, vulnerable, anxious, or unsettled, that’s okay. These are normal responses to stressful events.

Here are a few gentle reminders you might like to hold close:

🌤️ Take it one day at a time. Focus on what needs to be done today, not next week.
🤝 Stay connected. Check in on neighbours, friends, and whānau, especially older people or those living alone.
📢 Follow official advice. Keep up to date with local Civil Defence guidance and weather alerts.
🤍 Remember, there is no right or wrong way to feel.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to someone you trust, talk to our team, or call or text the 1737 helpline for free support.

You don’t have to carry this alone.

www.ruatahimedical.nz

16/02/2026

🐎 WELCOMING THE YEAR OF THE HORSE 🐎

Today marks the start of the Lunar New Year, a time of renewal and fresh beginnings.

In the Year of the Horse, we celebrate energy, courage, and moving forward with confidence.

Wishing you and your whānau good health and happiness in the year ahead. 🏮

www.ruatahimedical.nz

12/02/2026

🎒 SUPPORTING KIDS WITH BACK-TO-SCHOOL ANXIETY 💚

Back-to-school season is well underway across the motu (the country), and for many whānau it brings a mix of excitement and worry. If your child is feeling anxious about returning to school, that’s okay. It’s a very common feeling.

The good news is there are simple, practical ways to help children feel supported and more confident:

❤️ Let your child know it’s normal and common to feel anxious.
🛡️ Remind them of times they’ve been brave before, and that they are safe, loved, and cared for.
👏 Praise their effort when they try something that feels hard for them.
🧩 Help them think through small solutions if challenges come up.
🗪 Keep conversations calm and open so they feel heard and supported.

For more guidance, visit KidsHealth NZ 👉 https://www.kidshealth.org.nz/anxiety

www.ruatahimedical.nz

10/02/2026

🧠 WHAT YOU REPEAT, YOUR BRAIN BELIEVES 💭

Our brains learn through repetition.

That’s why the thoughts we return to again and again can start to feel true, even when they are not based on facts. Our brains love familiarity.

Thankfully, Daniel Pink recently shared a timely reminder about how this works and why repeating accurate, positive thoughts really matters.

Swipe through the slides below for a simple explanation and a moment to pause and reflect 👇

05/02/2026

✨ LOOK AFTER YOU, TOO 💚

You can’t be everything to everybody and nothing to yourself.

So many of us spend our days showing up for whānau, work, friends, and everyone else who needs us. But when there’s no space left for you, something has to give.

This is your reminder that caring for yourself isn’t selfish. It’s necessary. Even small moments of rest, reflection, or support can make a real difference.

If you’ve been feeling stretched, tired, or overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Our team is here to listen and can help you explore the support options that may be right for you.

www.ruatahimedical.nz

04/02/2026

🎗️ WORLD CANCER DAY 🎗️

Today, we acknowledge everyone affected by cancer. Whether they’re living with it, have faced it, or are the whānau, friends, and carers walking alongside someone on their journey.

It’s also a moment to reflect on the choices and actions that can reduce our risk, support one another, and keep pushing for better outcomes for all.

Change is possible when we act together.

www.ruatahimedical.nz

01/02/2026

📢 OPENING AT 9:30AM TOMORROW (3 FEB) ℹ️

Ruatahi Medical Centre will open at 9:30AM tomorrow, Tuesday, 3 February, due to a staff meeting.

Thank you for your understanding, and we appreciate your patience while our team comes together to support the best care for our patients.

www.ruatahimedical.nz