Nine well-deserving local “lifters” have secured unlimited access to The Lift Project online wellbeing program created by internationally renowned lifestyle medicine expert Dr Darren Morton.
The group was part of the first round of The Lift Project Sunshine Coast cohort and join more than 4000 residents from across the region who have participated in the program.
Sunshine Coast Council Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said he was pleased to see council was the first organisation to partner with Dr Morton to deliver the program free for all Sunshine Coast residents.
“At the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic it was becoming clear just how important it was for people to look after their physical and mental wellbeing,” Cr Law said.
The online program kicked off in May, and due to popular demand, council rolled out a second round in July.
It explores 10 wellness-enhancing topics across 10 weeks, with an emphasis on mental wellbeing, and combines scientifically proven strategies from the exciting fields of Neuroscience, Positive Psychology and Lifestyle Medicine.
Dr Morton said it was very hard to select just one winner and instead chose all entrants as they were all winners.
“There were some truly inspiring stories that were shared by participants,” Dr Morton said.
Zahra Rimmelzwaan from Mooloolah Valley said she watched the lessons at least twice a week.
“After battling depression and lack of motivation for years, and from late last year starting to have health problems and feeling fatigued at all times with severe back pains, this project along with live meditations … has helped me so much and changed my life around,” Ms Rimmelzwaan said.
“I am very much grateful for this project as it has improved my life in many ways.”
Patricia Byrne of Caloundra volunteers at St Vincent de Paul and said the program had helped her share valuable tips with those who need help.
“Unfortunately these people seem to lack any significant connections and I’d love for them to participate in a program like this,” she said.
“It’s so important to live in the now and try and find something each day to be grateful for.”
Graham McNaughton of Mooloolaba said the experience had been very rewarding.
“I didn’t know what to expect so I had a totally open mind. I looked forward to and enjoyed each lesson as it arrived, each one being an important stepping stone which comes with its own rewards if one gets truly involved.”
And for Carole Caughey it helped her rediscover a love for the outdoors.
“That was so important especially during COVID-19.”
The winners will receive unlimited, lifetime access to the full online program.
Council is planning to launch a third round of The Lift Project Sunshine Coast early next year.
Expressions of Interest are now open with registrations to open in November 2020.
