July 2025

Eight minutes of care - small moments, big difference

Beekeepers know a thing or two about long days in the field. Tough days come with the territory, especially for those looking after lots of hives. 

But when the weight feels too heavy, reaching out can feel impossible.  

That’s where the 8 Minute Rule can help.  

It’s a simple way of saying, “I need a hand” when words seem too hard. Just send a message to someone you trust asking, “Got 8 minutes?” That’s it. No further explanation needed.  

When you get that message, you don’t have to fix anything. You just need to listen. 

Research shows that just 8 minutes of connection can make a difference. It can help steady the emotions of the person asking the question, break the spiral of negative thoughts, and remind them that they’re not alone.  

Make time for looking out for each other in the same way you would caring for your land and animals. 
 
Visit Eight minutes of care to learn more. 

Why is self-care so important when helping others? 

When you support others, whether via a listening ear, practical help or just showing up, you’re expending energy. It may not feel like much at the time, but over time, especially during long or emotionally intense situations like the Varroa response, that energy level can run low. 

That’s why it’s important to look after yourself.  

When you’re well-supported you can continue to show up for others without burning out. 

Self-care might include: 
 

• Taking a pause before or after a tough day 

• Getting out for a short walk or breathing in fresh air 

• Saying “I’m not okay” and asking for support 

• Doing something that grounds you, even if just for a few minutes 

Self-care shouldn’t be viewed as selfish. Think of self-care like you would tending a hive. Regular care, attention and balance are what help keep both healthy and productive.  

You’re no different. 

Apitherapy - Healing from the hive

Have you ever stepped out of the apiary feeling calmer, clearer, or just… better?

You’re not alone, in fact, there’s a name for it.  

Apitherapy is the use of bee products like honey, propolis, royal jelly, beeswax, and bee venom for healing. It’s a centuries old practice, dating back thousands of years to ancient Egypt, Greece, and China. These days, it’s more commonly associated with physical health, but many people believe it supports mental wellbeing too.   

Many beekeepers may also relate to something called Living Apitherapy. Living Apitherapy describes the emotional and psychological benefits that come from simply spending time with bees. It’s that sense of peace you feel after time in the hive, the gentle focus that comes from watching their patterns and the ease with which they work in rhythm with nature.   

You’ve probably experienced it, even if you haven’t put words to it. And now, researchers are beginning to explore this connection more deeply, including its potential benefits for people recovering from stress, trauma or illness.   

Not everyone agrees on how to measure the impact of Apitherapy or Living Apitherapy, but one thing is certain; beekeeping brings deep joy and meaning to people all over the world.  

And for many, beekeeping is as much about healing as it is honey. 

References

Can beekeeping improve mental wellbeing during times of crisis? | Mental Health Australia

Relax with Beekeeping: Reduce Stress and Boost Mental Health - Beekeeper Corner 

Healing Through Nature: Benefits for Mental Health | The Harvest Clinic

Photograph, Mark Jesser, 2025, National Library of Australia

Do you know of a fellow beekeeper who may be doing it tough but isn’t on our email listing? Encourage them to sign up at National Varroa Mite Management Program e-news or phone the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881 to receive the latest in Varroa Resilience developments. 

For more information from the National Varroa Mite Management Program visit varroa.org.au.   

Is there a conversation you've been putting off? While time can change a lot, sometimes just a few minutes of honest talk can make a huge difference.

Let's have that conversation. 

Visit www.varroa.org.au/resilience