Month: January 2021

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These potent formulas restore your glow, minus any greasy residue. % […]

5 min read

As we seek to push for inclusivity and destigmatization in reproductive healthcare, it’s important we normalize the many ways people choose to become – or not become – parents. 
Conception is a tricky word that can stir so many emotions, questions, and stories. Conception is the beginning of what could be a new human, and the ways that people get there are becoming more and more accessible. We’re here to discuss the many roads conception journeys can take. 
The Old Fashioned Way
I’m sure you know what this looks like. A tried and true method is penis in vagina. If the timing is right and the stars are aligned, you may find yourself getting pregnant if you’re ovulating when you have sex. 
For cis-gendered, heterosexual couples, an estimated 84% will successfully get pregnant through intercourse within the first year of trying without contraception. 
This percentage does decline with age, as someone approaches menopause, but there are numerous other reasons someone may have difficulty conceiving from stress, to a disorder like endometriosis. 
How someone chooses to approach issues with fertility is their own choice. Some may go more holistic routes by using tools like acupuncture and functional medicine. Or by integrating them with other pharmaceutical methods. 
Fertility Treatments
If someone experiences signs of infertility or difficulty conceiving, they may opt for using medical support like fertility medication, or surgical procedures that work to remedy whatever conditions may be leading to infertility. This could include procedures to repair any scarring or blocking in the fallopian tubes, removing cysts caused by endometriosis, or removing fibroids. 
For men and people with penises, there are procedures that help correct blockages that may prevent sperm from releasing. 
Inspiring Inclusivity 
As we push for more and more inclusivity in reproductive health, we have to acknowledge that not all couples who want to reproduce have a penis and vagina. No matter the gender configuration of potential parents, they should have access and understanding as to what their choices are regarding reproduction. 
On that note, not everyone who wants to have a baby has a partner. That’s cool too! Single people should also have access to and education around the same services that couples do when wanting to have a baby.
We’re all for expanding the possibilities of what families can look like. 
What About IVF?
When it comes to fertility treatments, the first thing that comes to mind for most people is typically IVF, or in vitro fertilization.
Depending on the dynamics of the couple or person trying to conceive, IVF is often seen as a last resort. Not only is it expensive, but the process can take a long time, and involves the use of fertility drugs, which can be physically tolling. 
Scientific advances sure are incredible! The process of in vitro means fertilizing the egg outside of the body, and then implanting it into either the gestational parent or a surrogate. 
Here’s what that looks like: After fertility testing, the gestational parent will go on fertility drugs to help stimulate the ovaries to release multiple eggs. During ovulation, they will then undergo a minor surgery called follicular aspiration to get said eggs. If necessary, donor eggs can be used. These eggs are then fertilized with sperm, and implanted back into the womb where hopefully they will develop and grow successfully. 
A 2017 Fertility Clinic Success Rates Report from the U.S. Center for Disease Control, found that of 284,385* Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) cycles performed at 448 clinics in the U.S, resulted in 68,908 live births.
One of the biggest deterrents of IVF is again, the price. A single cycle costs an average of $15,000 USD without the help of insurance. Given that it often comes after other less expensive measures, and can take multiple cycles, its price tag can drastically increase, as does the emotional strain.
Unfortunately, this price tag makes IVF inaccessible for many people, but it’s not the only option.
Let’s Talk About IUI
Another more affordable option is IUI, or intrauterine insemination. 
IUI is typically a much simpler procedure than IVF, and can be done with or without the use of fertility drugs. 
People would turn to IUI if they cannot or don’t want to have sex with a male partner, or if their male partner is experiencing infertility. It can be used as a stepping stone before resorting to IVF, yet after using other fertility-boosting measures whether they be holistic or pharmaceutical. 
Many queer parents use IUI as a way of conceiving, using donor sperm.
A significantly more affordable option than IVF, a single cycle costs around $1,000 USD.
Another benefit of IUI, is that it doesn’t have to be done in the harsh environment of a clinic. Many midwives offer IUI as part of their services, and they may even be able to perform it in the comfort of their client’s home. Making the whole experience that much more intimate.
There are Options
To stay focused on inclusivity means talking about all possible options. Not everyone’s journey to parenthood involves them becoming pregnant. 
Conception isn’t just about you getting pregnant. It is the beginning of a new phase in life, no matter what that looks like. For some people and partners, their journey involves foster parenting, adoption, or even using a surrogate. 
No matter what your conception journey looks like, you deserve to have the love and support of your community and whatever tools you need to become the parent you are meant to be.

Natasha (she/they) is a full spectrum doula, reproductive health content creator, and sexual wellness consultant. Her work focuses on deconstructing the shame, stigma, and barriers people carry around birth, sex, and beyond, to help people navigate through their lives with more pleasure, softness, and sensuality. You can connect with Natasha on IG @spectrumoflovedoula. […]

5 min read

Did you just give birth, or are preparing to soon? Congratulations! 
You’ve just grown a whole human from scratch, rode the waves of labor, and pushed a baby out of your birth canal, aka vagina. 
You may be feeling sore, raw, messy, elated, exhausted, blissed-out, frustrated, on an oxytocin high, sleep-deprived, and any combination of the wide range of emotions someone can experience after birth. 
Although you’ve made it through pregnancy, labor, and birth, your journey is just getting started. 
From the time your baby is born to about three months thereafter, you’re in what’s called “the fourth trimester”. This tender part of the postpartum period is an essential time for healing your newly evolved body. 
While healing happens on many different layers, from physical, to emotional, to mental, you’ll also want to think about what steps you’ll take to heal your vagina, vulva, perineum, and anus – aka the actual genital tissues that the human equivalent of watermelon just passed through on their way into the world. 
Mothering the Mother
No matter how you’re feeling, everyone needs extra help after they’ve given birth. 
The idea of “mothering the mother” is making sure that not only are the birthing parent’s general needs taken care of like being fed, hydrated, and emotionally supported, but that other people are taking care of errands and household duties. Your support team may include a partner, family, friends, a postpartum doula, or any combination of people.
Having other people take care of cooking, walking the dog, and laundry not only allows you to put all your focus on bonding with your baby, but is also imperative for your long term vaginal health and healing. 
What to Expect
Knowing what is and isn’t in the range of normal lets you know what to expect after vaginal birth, and any potential red flags.
Soreness: Your perineum and rectum may feel sore and tender for anywhere from three to six weeks depending on whether or not you required stitches. 
Swelling:  Your labia and whole genital area may be swollen for a few days to a few weeks. 
Labia Changes: Your labia may look darker, or have varicose veins after birth.
Stitches: If you had stitches as a result of an episiotomy or tear, they should heal in seven to ten days. It’s important to clean them with water after you use the bathroom and try not to touch them to avoid infection. 
Hemorrhoids: Are normal after delivery. Try to avoid constipation by not holding it in when you need to poop, eating fibre-filled foods, and taking a gentle laxative or stool softener if necessary.
Bleeding and Discharge: Called lochia, this is the body’s way of eliminating extra blood and tissue that it used to grow a baby. Your bleeding may be heavier up to ten days postpartum, with spotting and light bleeding lasting up to six weeks postpartum. Some clots are normal, especially in the first week. 
Prepare for Vaginal Healing
While you may not be able to predict exactly how your birth is going to go, you can take certain steps and preparations to help support your vaginal healing postpartum.
Find The Right Provider: If you are able to have your choice of provider, try choosing one that you feel safe and comfortable with. This can make a huge difference in the outcome of your birth, and thus your postpartum healing. You will also want to ask them their policies on episiotomies and pushing procedures.
Make “Padsicles”: Prepare these before birth by dampening maxi pads with witch hazel and stacking them with foil between them in the freezer. It can help to bend them slightly to line up with the curves of your body. Some people choose to use aloe vera and other healing herbs to soak them in. An ice pack specifically made for your postpartum perineal needs!
Peri Bottle: Short for perineum bottle, your hospital, birth center or midwife may provide one of these handy squirt bottles. Fill it with ¾ warm water and ¼ witch hazel to use after you go to the bathroom. 
Sitz Bath: This is a warm bath where you only submerge your bum, and possibly up to your hips. This may be infused with healing herbs as well. You can also try heat packs or hot water bottles to help ease discomfort.
Yoni Steams: Are done by sitting over a pot or bowl of steaming medicinal herbs that are intended for postpartum healing. It is recommended to wait at least thirty days postpartum before steaming.
Minimize Movement: Your body needs time to heal. This is also important to prevent postpartum hemorrhage. You may want to set up your station downstairs, if your bedroom is upstairs.
Stay Off of Your Perineum: Avoid standing or sitting for too long in the first few weeks, try to lie on your side, or sit on a pillow if needed. 
Let it Breathe: While you may need adult diapers or period panties for initial bleeding, try to wear loose clothes to let your genitals breathe after birth. 
Numbing: You can use local anesthetics for numbing any perineum pain. 
OTC Painkiller: Like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, be sure to ask your provider first.
Decrease Risk of Infection: By only using pads or period panties, do not put a tampon or menstrual cup in there for at least the first six weeks postpartum. 
Signs You Should Reach Out to Your Provider
Postpartum Hemorrhage: Tell your doctor if you are filling up more than a pad every hour, as this may be a sign of postpartum hemorrhage. 
Pelvic Prolapse: If you experience excess pressure or pain in your pelvic floor, or difficulty peeing or defecating this may be a sign of pelvic prolapse. 
Clots: While some clots are normal, if they are bigger than a quarter, you should consult your provider.
Chills and Fever: These are possible signs of postpartum infection. 
Stitches: If your stitches are red, swollen, or have pus it could indicate an infection. 
Long Term Healing 
Healing after birth takes time, and your body will never return to exactly how it was before, but that’s ok, you just brought another human into the world afterall! 
When planning for your vaginal birth healing process, you may also want to consider kegels, pelvic floor physical therapy, and how to have great sex after pregnancy. 

Natasha (she/they) is a full spectrum doula, reproductive health content creator, and sexual wellness consultant. Her work focuses on deconstructing the shame, stigma, and barriers people carry around birth, sex, and beyond, to help people navigate through their lives with more pleasure, softness, and sensuality. You can connect with Natasha on IG @spectrumoflovedoula. […]

4 min read

So you’ve finally converted to a menstrual cup. Congratulations! You’re taking big steps in choosing the best period options for your body, wallet, and the planet. 
You’ve started bleeding, in your cup goes, and then wham! Wait – “How do I pee with this thing in?!” or “Why do I always feel like I need to pee when wearing a menstrual cup?!”. 
These are two very normal reactions of new period cup users. 
Luckily for you, we’ve got answers and tips to help guide on your menstrual cup journey and peeing. 
Can You Pee with a Cup In?
To put it simply, yes, of course. Depending on your flow, you can wear your menstrual cup for up to twelve hours. As you can imagine, it would be a pain in the butt – or vagina – to have to take it out after time you had to urinate.
For women and people with vulvas, there’s a whole lot going on in one small area, which can make things feel complicated when adding an extra product to the party. 
I’m sorry if this is painfully obvious, but pee and period blood do come out different holes. That’s not to say that having a cup in your vaginal canal can’t impact your peeing habits, or vice versa. This is because the bladder, urethra and vagina are cozying up real close to each other. 
Find The Right Cup and Position
If your menstrual cup is making peeing more complicated, or giving you any anxiety, you’ll want to make sure that you, one – have the right cup for your body, and two – make sure it’s in at a comfortable position. 
If your cup feels like it’s taking up too much space in there, check out this menstrual cup size guide, you may need a new one that fits you better.
You can also try wearing your cup lower in your vaginal canal, so it puts less pressure on your bladder, or readjust it until it feels like it’s in a prime position. 
In some cases, it may just be a new sensation that you get used to after a few wears. 
Will it Fall Out When I Pee?
Your cup is designed to stay in place when you pee, but of course – accidents happen. 
If your cup does happen to fall out, and into the toilet, just be sure to properly sanitize it before reinserting, to prevent a nasty infection from bacteria that live in toilets and urine, like E. coli and Staphylococcus.  
For people who tend to pee outside, or have squat toilets, versus sit down ones, this may cause your cup to be more likely to fall out, because of the angle of your pelvic floor muscles and vagina. 
If the toilet scaries are still getting to you, again you can take it out when you pee, but who wants to go through that hassle?
What about The Urge to Pee?
Your cup is nestled in there and stays put when peeing, but the pressure on your bladder, is making it feel like you need to go all the time! 
Like we mentioned, you may need to try a different cup or reposition it, but if you’re still experienced the urge 
Here’s a little advice from people who have urinary incontinence or feel like they need to pee all the time – fully void. This means trying to fully drain your bladder every time you pee. Go to the bathroom, do your business, stand up to change the position of your pelvic floor muscles, and then try to pee again. This method should give you some relief, whether or not you have a cup in. 
Don’t Hold it In
Your pee that is, not your cup, that holds itself in. 
If you’re feeling like you need to pee more with a cup in, don’t torture yourself, let it out! Some people find themselves needing to pee more on their period, menstrual cup or not. This is because of a drop in the hormone progesterone. This hormone can cause water retention, aka bloating during your pre-menstrual phase. When it drops, you’re no longer holding on to all that water, and you may need to pee it out much more often than usual. 
Holding your pee in can lead to uncomfortable urinary tract infections, which when left untreated can turn into bladder or kidney infections. Yikes!
Listen to your body and let it out when nature calls. 
With all that going on, you may be wondering about sex with a menstrual cup, specifically squirting. If you can pee with a cup in, you can most likely squirt as well – if that’s what you’re into!
Menstrual cups are meant to make your life easier, but of course everyone’s individual anatomy requires different care when it comes to periods. It may take time to find the right cup and routine for your body and cycle, but when you do – there’s no turning back!

Natasha (she/they) is a full spectrum doula, reproductive health content creator, and sexual wellness consultant. Her work focuses on deconstructing the shame, stigma, and barriers people carry around birth, sex, and beyond, to help people navigate through their lives with more pleasure, softness, and sensuality. You can connect with Natasha on IG @spectrumoflovedoula. […]

4 min read

Welcome to parenthood! 
You and your sweet new bundle of joy have made it through labor and birth, and are now getting well acquainted with each other, and the quirks that come with having a new baby.
How you choose to feed your baby is totally up to you! For those who choose to breastfeed, pump, or some combination of feeding styles, you may have found that lactation isn’t as straightforward as it seemed. 
There’s an endless list of things that can complicate lactation – milk supply, all-nighters, tongue ties, chaffed nipples, teething tots – the list goes on.
One of the more difficult complications to deal with is mastitis. 
What is Mastitis?
Simply put, mastitis is the inflammation of the breast in a person who is lactating. Ouch!
Most commonly occurring in the first six weeks postpartum, mastitis can be due to a few different causes, and may or may not be accompanied by an infection. 
It’s important to mention that anyone who is lactating can have mastitis. Gestational parents who don’t identify as mothers can lactate, and parents who have endured pregnancy loss can also come down with mastitis.
Traffic on The Milky Way
While a clogged milk duct doesn’t always lead to mastitis, it is the most common cause of it. 
Milk flows through a beautifully, complex network of ducts in the breasts. When these ducts become blocked, it can hinder the flow of milk, and lead to engorgement and tenderness near where the clog is. 
When left untreated, this can lead to an infection. 
Milk Blisters
A clogged duct may also be accompanied by a bleb. This is a small, usually painful milk blister on the nipple or areola. 
Oftentimes, these resolve without treatment. If you have a painful bleb, you can use a wet or dry heat compress, followed by nursing. It’s also helpful to soak your nipples in warm water and try to hand express out the blockage by squeezing behind it. Once the blister opens, help prevent infection by keeping it clean, and washing it with mild, unscented soap once or twice a day. 
Boobs and Bacteria
Another cause of mastitis is when bacteria makes its way into your bloodstream via a cracked nipple. This bacteria can come from your baby’s mouth, or your skin’s surface.
If this inflammation or clogged duct doesn’t clear, it can lead to an infection. Along with a painful and swollen breast(s), you may also experience flu-like symptoms like a low-grade fever, achiness, and fatigue.
Common Symptoms of Mastitis:
Breast tenderness.
Redness on breasts.
Hard spot or sore lump in breast.
You should consult your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms: 
You have a fever over 101 degrees F (38.4 degrees C).
There is pus or blood in your milk.
You have excessive chills or worsening symptoms.
If your breast(s) become hot and swollen, or you have red streaks on them from your nipple towards your armpit.
Treating a Plugged Duct and/or Mastitis
It is absolutely ok for your baby to nurse from the infected side, in fact, it can help clear up your clogged ducts, and prevent further infection. It may even help boost your baby’s immune system, by passing on valuable antibodies that you produced while fighting off the infection. 
Here are some other helpful treatment options:
Apply a wet or dry heat compress to the affected breast.
An old folk remedy that people swear by is putting chilled cabbage leaves on the affected breast, which may work similarly to a heat compress.
Nurse and/or pump frequently on the side of clogged duct.
Try to rest, especially if you think an infection is developing.
Gently massage the lump, or right behind it, especially while feeding.
Try going braless, or wearing a bra without underwear, as well as loose-fitting clothing.
Soak breasts in warm water (you can lean over a basin) and massage them, try to nurse after doing this.
Use a device with low vibrations over the engorged area, like the end of a toothbrush, a vibrator on a low setting, or a specific device developed for encouraging milk flow.
If your baby is feeding less or changing schedules, try hand expressing a little to prevent clogging.
If you are prescribed antibiotics, be sure to finish them.
Preventing Mastitis 
Help prevent mastitis and clogged ducts by maintaining regular nursing and/or pumping schedule, switching up positions when nursing, massaging your breasts while nursing to help with milk flow, and following any treatment regimens given to you by your provider.
You may also consider seeing a lactation consultant, who can help you in finding the best latch and positioning for you and your baby, and other life-changing tips around nursing.
Ultimately, how you choose to feed your baby is up to you. If you have recurring mastitis, clogged ducts, discomfort, or breastfeeding just isn’t working for you anymore – it’s ok to stop. The best thing you can do for the wellbeing of you and your baby is to make an informed choice about what works best for both of you.

Natasha (she/they) is a full spectrum doula, reproductive health content creator, and sexual wellness consultant. Her work focuses on deconstructing the shame, stigma, and barriers people carry around birth, sex, and beyond, to help people navigate through their lives with more pleasure, softness, and sensuality. You can connect with Natasha on IG @spectrumoflovedoula. […]

2020 is finally coming to an end, and a new year will soon be upon us. What better time to reset your health and wellness goals? With the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, health and self-care matter more right now than ever.
When it comes to making resolutions, it’s important to focus on your physical and mental health.
Women’s health experts Dr. Lisa Larkin, the founder of Ms. Medicine and a member of HealthyWomen’s Women’s Health Advisory Council, and Dr. Ankita Sagar, an internist in New York, recommend some resolutions that can help you have a healthier 2021.

1. Schedule time to focus on your health
Many women are guilty of putting their health needs on the back burner to focus on caring for others. Learning to prioritize your own health can help with sticking to resolutions. One way to make sure this happens is to schedule time for it.
“What I tell people is that you have to think realistically about how much time you can set aside each day, every day,” Sagar said, adding that figuring out your pockets of free time can help you plan.
“Calendars and reminders are really good, whether it’s on a phone or a physical calendar or a journal that you write your daily plan [in].”
Scheduling everything from a daily meditation break to a yearly mammogram can ensure that you’re putting your health first.

2. Find a partner or join a community that can support your health goals
If making healthier lifestyle choices on your own has been hard, consider enlisting an accountability partner or joining a health-focused community.
Larkin suggests asking a family member, friend or spouse to join you in your efforts and help keep you on track.
“If you’re focusing on lifestyle stuff, I’m a big believer in finding online networks for different things … [such as] sleep hygiene and weight loss,” Larkin said.
This can be challenging during the pandemic, but you can set up virtual check-ins or go for a socially distanced walk with a friend. The important thing is to reach out to others who share your health goals.

3. Find the mental health methods that work for you
Mental health matters. Learning to prioritize and maintain your emotional well-being is critical to living your healthiest life.
“Anxiety, depression and insomnia are on the upswing during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Sagar said. “It’s important to bring this to your clinician because [they’re] not going to necessarily be able to detect it.”
Larkin recommends a variety of mental health methods.
“I refer a lot of people for counseling, but not everybody needs traditional counseling. Lots of people use religious pastors or priests, family or friends. For some people, exercise is really the best thing or even just meditation and doing guided imagery — or even getting a massage,” she said.

4. Unplug at least 30 minutes a day
“Take 30 minutes a day where you’re not going to look at a laptop or phone or any electronic device, including a TV movie,” Sagar advised. She added that unplugging gives our mind time to rest, which can be particularly important before sleep.
She suggested using that time to read a book, write in a journal, paint or meditate. If you can’t find an uninterrupted 30-minute break, split it. For example, take three 10-minute breaks during your day instead.

5. Learn about your breast density
When it comes to breast cancer risk, many women lack education on important topics such as breast density. Breast density refers to the ratio of fibrous and glandular tissue compared to fatty tissue in the breast.
Larkin explained that breast density impacts one’s breast cancer risk, so people with breasts should know what their breast density is and have a conversation about it with their healthcare provider.
Next time you get a mammogram, be sure to ask your doctor about your breast density and other cancer risks.

6. Check on your family medical history
While much of health is based on lifestyle and diet, genetics also play an important role in our risk factors for certain diseases, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and psychiatric disorders.
“Take a good inventory of your family history and make sure your clinician is aware of your family history because so often it gets missed in the traditional practice setting,” Larkin advised.

7. Eat more fruits and veggies
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only one in 10 Americans eat the recommended one to two cups of fruit and two to three cups of vegetables a day.
If you have trouble fitting the daily amount into your diet, Larkin suggests taking one day of the week to cut up and prepare fruits and vegetables so you have servings readily accessible during the week.
Resolving to eat more fruits and veggies is critical because, along with helping with weight management, they help stave off certain chronic conditions.
“For risk reduction of breast cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, lifestyle matters. Exercise, maintaining an ideal body weight (BMI under 25), eating a healthy largely plant-based diet, and limiting alcohol is critical. Don’t overlook the importance of ideal lifestyle habits in disease prevention,” Larkin said.

8. Cut back on alcohol
A nightcap can be a relaxing ritual, but too much alcohol can cause health problems, such as heart disease.
“Alcohol intake has certainly risen across the globe as COVID-19 has catastrophic effects on society. Data shows that alcohol also affects mood and anxiety, especially increasing risk of depression, suicide, and anxiety disorder. Patients who are suffering from loneliness, depressed mood, and anxiety may be less likely to seek medical care,” Sagar said. She suggests you start cutting back by replacing one glass a day with a nonalcoholic beverage.
“Alcohol intake is associated with a social activity … so plan ahead. If you are drinking with food … plan for a different beverage, whether that’s water, sparkling water, or flavored water that you enjoy,” she adds.
If you want more assistance with reducing your alcohol intake, Sagar recommends finding a professional such as a health coach to help you take a more individualized approach.
We can’t predict much about the new year. But one thing we do know is that, if you’re looking to have a healthier 2021, these resolutions can help pave the way. […]

Team Up With Your Fitness Heroes And Take On The Ultimate Challenge
Or tag that friend who you think has got what it takes ???
This post is sponsored by Toyota | 4 August 2020

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Love a fitness challenge? Or have a friend who’s pretty hardcore? Well, we’ve got the ultimate challenge for you…
One lucky reader* will team up with a South African sports hero and win a Toyota Fortuner 2.4 GD-6 RB 6MT. Teams will compete in a series of challenges this October**
Who Are The Heroes?
Giniel de Villiers — Rally Driver
Junior Pokomela — Cheetahs Rugby Player
Hanneke Dannhauser — Obstacle Course Racer
Mapule Ndhlovu — Fitness Personality
What Do I Have To Do?
You’ll compete in cycling, speed and paddling challenges, and should be able to perform mental gymnastics! Your friends will envy your physical prowess and fitness. ?
How Do I Enter?
Take a photo or make a video (optional, but it will make your entry stand out) and fill in the online entry form at toyota.m24lifestyle.co.za. Don’t delay – entries close on 11 September as the clock strikes midnight.
The Four Finalists Each Win…
Specialized Stumpjumper Alloy 29er bike
Garmin fēnix Multisport Smartwatch
Active gear
Also Up For Grabs…
The semi-finalists will each win a Garmin fēnix Multisport Smartwatch.
*One finalist will be chosen from Weg, go!, Weg Ry & Sleep, go! Drive & Camp, Men’s Health, Women’s Health and Bicycling entrants.** Exact dates and event information to be confirmed in October.

READ MORE ON: Life

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6 Things You Need To Know If You’re Going On An Epic Off-Road Trip
Because there’s nothing better than heading for the road less travelled.
This post is sponsored by Toyota | 4 August 2020

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Off-road driving can seem daunting, but when done safely, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of conquering a technical and slightly scary obstacle. Of course, you don’t want to get stuck, slip down hills or do anything that may damage the vehicle (or its occupants), so here are some simple steps to follow so you can head for the hills with excitement and confidence.
Know your dirt
Off-roading doesn’t just involve a few gravel roads here and there. It can mean mud, rock, sand or water… And sometimes all four at once. Make sure you understand what is required of you and your vehicle for each of these terrains. It will be the difference between a fun day out and a day spent trying to rescue your vehicle.
Walk the walk
Before attempting any obstacle, get out of your vehicle and walk the entire route. If you’re on an unknown road, you need to know what’s coming up ahead beyond that hill or those rocks. Remember, if you’re unable to navigate the terrain, it’s unlikely that your vehicle will be able to either. Walking the route will allow you to get a good idea of where to place your tyres and all the differentials so you can make a plan of approach. In other words, always be prepared!

Take it slow
Speed is not your friend when off-roading. In fact, the slower the better, and when it comes to being off the beaten track, it’s best to remember, “as slow as possible, as fast as necessary.” So, if you’re descending a hill, do it as slowly as possible, and if you’re ascending a hill, you may need a little bit of speed for momentum. But going through an obstacle too quickly is a sure way to damage your vehicle.
READ MORE: 9 Things You Should Always Do Before Going On A Road Trip
Straight as an arrow
Rolling your vehicle on steep terrain is something you need to be aware of and do everything to avoid. Don’t drive diagonally down a hill, always keep your vehicle as straight as possible. And if you feel like the car is starting to slide sideways, slow down immediately.

Ease that grip
Most new off-roaders are so nervous that they grip the steering wheel like a vice, which can be dangerous for a few reasons. If your thumbs are folded around the inside of the steering wheel and one of your tyres hits something, the wheel may turn sharply, causing you to break, dislocate or strain your thumbs. Therefore, always keep them up along the face of the steering wheel. Also, never ever turn the wheel while gripping it from the inside. Another reason to loosen your grip is to allow the wheels to work with the vehicle. Best practice is to keep both your hands on opposite sides of the steering wheel in a firm yet gentle grip.
READ MORE: Team Up With Your Fitness Heroes And Take On The Ultimate Challenge
Know your limits
As much as off-roading can be relatively easy when you know how, it can also be quite tricky. It’s good to know your limits so that you don’t end up damaging your car or, even worse, injuring yourself and others. You also don’t want to spend a night out in the rough because your car is stuck in a ditch. Know your limits on different terrain – sand is very different to rock which is very different to mud. Take it slow no matter what. But most importantly, enjoy yourself! And always buddy-up, like any extreme sport, never go it alone.
Looking for the perfect family off-roader?

Look no further than the Toyota Fortuner Epic. Not only is it South Africa’s top-selling SUV, it’s also built on the more-than-capable Hilux bakkie, so you know it’s going to be able to take you anywhere. You can choose between two variants of the Epic, both based on the 2.8-litre GD-6 derivatives: the “standard” Fortuner Epic and Fortuner Epic Black (which features more black styling cues). Inside you have leather seats (no need to worry if the road gets bumpy while your kids are sipping their juices, you can just wipe it off) and a soft-touch dashboard trim. If you need it to be a practical seven-seater, never fear because the layout remains as per the current model with an elevated second row and a fold-up third row of seats. All Fortuner models are equipped with ABS, TRC, VSC, BAS, EBD and hill start assist (HAC). The four-wheel drive models additionally feature Toyota’s A-TRAC off-road traction control logic and downhill assist control (DAC), to make navigating obstacles a breeze. “On-the- fly” selectable 2WD/4WD/4WD Lo modes further add to overlanding convenience. The standard safety features are endless and for peace of mind, especially if you’re going to be driving this across mountains, the Epic comes standard with a nine services/90 000km service plan and three-year/100 000km warranty.
Want to stand a chance of winning a Toyota Fortuner?
Become a challenger to represent Media24 in this year’s epic Fortuner Challenge 2020. Visit toyota.m24lifestyle.co.za to enter.

READ MORE ON: Driving Life

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