If there is one good thing that's come out of Covid-19 this year, it's that Coasties are more aware of looking after their health.

Hardy's Whangaparaoa manager Kirsty McKelvie says the team at our local health store has noticed people have been focused on increasing their immunity and improving their general wellbeing.

Another health priority has been dealing with anxiety or low-mood, conditions that have been exacerbated by the ups and downs of 2020. "People have been under more stress and lockdowns have meant they can't get out and about to enjoy social contact or get a good dose of Vitamin D," says Kirsty.

She's been encouraged to see more men coming in for advice on how they can support their mental health. "It's great that they are identifying it, talking about it and getting help."

Hardy's Health Stores are a family-run business, with seven retail shops around New Zealand, two Hardy's Health Hubs inside pharmacies and a comprehensive online presence.

Staff are trained in all aspects of natural health so they can offer a professional, personalized service.

They are backed by Diana Burgess, a naturopath with more than 20 years' experience, who owns the Hardy's brand and franchise business with her husband, Vince Burgess.

Kirsty, who has worked in the natural health industry for 10 years and has a background in nutrition, has been the manager at Whangaparaoa for 12 months.

She works alongside four other staff, who are live in the local area -- Sally, who is often on the shop floor, homeopath Lynn, nutritionist Justine and Pam.

One of the big advantages of operating in a retail environment is that Kirsty and her team have time to talk to each client, ask questions and find out about their background, so they can offer the right product or solution for their unique health scenario.

Each season brings new customer trends -- our recent spate of good weather has given people a boost and some motivation to get ready for summer.

"People are looking for more energy and some want weight loss to fit into summer clothes, particularly if they gained weight during lockdown," Kirsty says.

"The key is to find the right solution for each person because every individual is different."

For some, it might mean looking at hormonal balance. For others, it's about ensuring they are getting the right nutrients -- plenty of good fats, protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Some clients might want to combat sugar cravings; others might have become aware of the benefits of increasing protein in their diets.

Intolerance to dairy is becoming more common so there is growing interest in plant-based proteins, which also offer a complete protein for people following a vegan or vegetarian diet, Kirsty says.

"Protein is important because it's really good for satiety levels. It keeps you feeling fuller for longer."

Kirsty moved to New Zealand from Scotland 23 years ago and loves her newly adopted country and the Coast area. "It's got a really lovely feel."

The shop has many regulars and Kirsty especially enjoys visits from some of the older people in the community, many who have struggled with loneliness in 2020.

"It's nice to have them come in, have a chat and a wee laugh and get something to put a spring in their step."

Her passion for natural health was awakened when she lost her mother. "Seeing my mum suffer through cancer made me look into natural health and better understand the importance of looking at our health holistically -- nutrition, sleep, dealing with stress, taking supplements. It all plays a major part in our long-term health and I enjoy being able to pass that knowledge on to help others in need."

"We want our customers to walk out feeling good and stay feeling good," says Kirsty, who explains it's important to address the underlying health issue rather than just masking symptoms.

She and her team have also been buoyed by the number of people in the area who are committed to supporting local businesses following a disrupted year for retail.

"That's so great."