Category: health

Mental Health Experts Shine A Light On The Struggle Of Infertility Over The Festive Season by Experts at JAAQ

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Victoria Volkova Unsplash)

For many people, Christmas time/festive season is a time for happiness, family and bringing people together; however, one in seven UK couples face a hidden grief : infertility..

Research reveals that nearly three in four people battling infertility are burdened with feelings of failure, ​​adding to the hidden grief many already feel during the holidays. In response, mental health platform JAAQ wants to spread awareness around why infertility can be harder during the holidays and what we can do to approach the topic sensitively.

Male fertility coach explains why infertility feels heavier during the festive season 

Male fertility coach, Shaun Greenway, who was diagnosed with azoospermia, explains on JAAQ why the holiday season is so difficult: “We got a pregnancy announcement at Christmas, and it took me right back to that place. That hurt. That weird feeling of happiness mixed in with jealousy and anger and pain.”  Even after he had twins via donor sperm, the emotions didn’t disappear “It will always be part of me. It’s always there.”

Shaun’s experience highlights a truth many people face – that infertility doesn’t end with treatment or conception; it changes shape, often resurfacing during emotionally charged times like Christmas, a time filled with pregnancy announcements and marketing imagery filled with children and togetherness.

Founder and CEO of Fertility Help Hub, Eloise Edington, knows that pain well. Supporting her devastated husband while navigating her own grief, she recalls when speaking on JAAQ: “Supporting my devastated husband while also equally grieving myself and knowing that we would never have a biological child together meant we were both drowning in separate pain.”

She’s open about the reality of those moments: “Lots of crying, lots of eating chocolate, wine, being together. Not pretty. Not Pinterest-worthy. Just real.” For many couples facing infertility, this is the reality of Christmas – raw, difficult and far from the idealised celebrations we often imagine. 

(image: Priscilla Prisceez, Unsplash)

4 dos and don’ts for talking about infertility this holiday season

To make the festive season a little easier, mental health platform JAAQ has revealed four essential dos and don’ts for talking about infertility this Christmas – whether you’re facing it yourself, or want to approach the topic sensitively with others. 

Dos:

  • 1. Think before you ask sensitive questions about pregnancy or starting a family and wait for them to bring it up themselves naturally in conversation.
  • 2. Share with someone you trust – If you are struggling, consider speaking openly with someone, whether in person or by message, which can help you to process your emotions. For Shaun, he shared: “Once I did start opening up, that’s when everything got a bit lighter.” Elouise suggests, “Find community, find support, speak to other people who are going through similar struggles. How are they dealing with it? What are they doing to keep the romance alive or to get through this tricky time and enjoy life?”
  • 3. Encourage without imposing your opinion. If someone shares something personal, listen fully before responding. Let them know you are there for them and ask how you can support them, rather than assuming what they need. 
  • 4. Create a Christmas/ festive routine that works for you. If traditional celebrations feel overwhelming, permit yourself to do things differently. You might skip the big dinner, start a new ritual like a quiet morning walk with coffee, or find other ways to mark the day that feel manageable.  

Dont’s:

  • Don’t ask personal questions about pregnancy or family plans, especially in social settings
  • Don’t offer unsolicited advice like ‘just relax’ or ‘it’ll happen when it’s meant to’
  • Don’t probe with follow-up questions if someone opens up; listen supportively rather than asking questions that might cause unintentional distress
  • Don’t pressure someone to participate in every activity or ‘get into the spirit.’ Sometimes the kindest thing is simply allowing them to step away 

(image: Pereanu Sebastian: Unsplash)

About JAAQ

JAAQ – which stands for Just Ask A Question is a pioneering mental health platform designed to make credible, compassionate support accessible to everyone – especially in the workplace. The platform provides engaging, clinically backed content by connecting users with experts and individuals with lived experience, who answer mental health questions anonymously. This unique, interactive approach empowers people to explore their mental wellbeing in a safe, stigma-free environment.

How Human Design Can Support Better Mental Health.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Fuu J: Unsplash)

Sometimes life feels like a constant effort to keep up. We try to do things the “right” way, to make choices that look successful, to follow what others say will make us happy. Yet inside, many of us still feel anxious, confused, or tired. We wonder why it seems easier for others to find peace or purpose.

Human Design offers a different way to understand yourself. It is not about fixing or changing who you are. It is about learning how you naturally work: your energy, emotions, and ways of making decisions. When you understand this, life can start to feel lighter and more peaceful.

You can get a free Human Design Chart online using your birth details. The chart may look unusual at first, but it gives insight into how you are wired, how you connect with others, what drains you, and what supports your wellbeing.

So much of our mental stress comes from trying to be someone we are not. Human Design can help you see that your way of being is not wrong, it is simply different.

For example, some people are made to act quickly and follow their gut. Others are meant to take time and wait until things feel clear. If you are naturally the second type, trying to rush decisions can create anxiety or pressure. Learning your own rhythm helps you slow down and trust yourself. That simple understanding can calm the mind and reduce self-doubt.

Human Design reminds us that there is no single right way to live. Everyone has a different type of energy and purpose. When we stop comparing ourselves to others, something inside us relaxes.

You may begin to notice when your energy feels low and choose rest instead of pushing through. You might stop blaming yourself for needing quiet time or for feeling different. This acceptance helps reduce guilt and stress, which are heavy weights on mental health.

Another quiet gift of Human Design is how it can improve relationships. We often expect others to think, feel, or react the way we do. But when you understand that people have different emotional patterns and decision styles, it becomes easier to give space and kindness.

You may find more patience with your partner or family. You may notice that certain people energize you while others drain you, and you can make choices that protect your peace. Healthier connections grow from understanding, not control.

Human Design is not a quick fix. It is more like a mirror that helps you see yourself clearly. You can explore at your own pace, and you do not have to believe in anything spiritual to find meaning in it. It is simply a way to understand your patterns and give yourself permission to live more gently.

If you want to explore further, you can look into Human Design Software to study your chart more deeply and learn how your energy works day to day. But even just reading your basic chart can spark a lot of reflection and relief.

Good mental health often begins with acceptance. Human Design invites you to stop forcing yourself to fit an idea of how life “should” be and to start listening to what feels right for you.

When you live closer to your true design, life often feels softer. You react less, you rest more, and you start to trust that your own way is enough. There is no competition in that, just a quiet kind of peace.

In the end, Human Design is simply one more way to understand yourself with kindness. And that kindness, over time, becomes the foundation for healing.

This blog post contains sponsored links. Check out more at bodygraph.com

Snuggle Season Has Arrived! Limited Edition ‘Stomp’ BedTime Wear With NEXT For LOROS Hospice. (Non Sponsored Post)

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Limited edition Stomp pyjamas by Next, featuring a playful elephant design. 100% of profits support LOROS Hospice’s care for patients and families.)

Now that clocks are going back and its time to get snuggled and cosy, the perfect pyjamas for yourself and little ones have arrived! Teaming up with retail giant NEXT, the LOROS Hospice in Leicester, UK, have come up with some beautiful, stomping elephant pyjamas filled with colourful designs. The designs are inspired by the hand-painted elephant sculptures as part of the famous ‘Stomp Around Leicester’ art trail, which culminated in an art auction.

LOROS Hospice is facing a £2 million shortfall in funding and so NEXT has joined forces with LOROS to encourage the fundraising momentum! 100% profits from the pyjamas go to LOROS., which provides free, high quality compassionate care to terminally ill patients.

Available online now at next.co.uk, with nationwide delivery – every pair sold contributes to LOROS’s vital, compassionate care for over 2,600 patients each year. 

There are matching PJ sets for women and children, for family fun! These cosy pyjamas offer more than just warmth and style – they offer a feel-good factor that comes from helping a community lifeline.

Snuggle up for a cause this autumn: by slipping into Stomp PJs, families can stay stylishly warm while making a real difference to LOROS Hospice when it needs it most.

Please note: This post is non-sponsored (no fee taken) so Be Ur Own Light Blog can get entirely behind this wonderful cause!

image: Limited edition Stomp pyjamas by Next, featuring a playful elephant design)

The women’s Stomp PJs are 100% cotton and available in sizes XS – 2XL in regular length, and S – 2XL in tall. The children’s Stomp PJs are also 100% cotton and available in sizes 9-12 months, through to 7-8 years.

Healing The Mind And Body Through Supportive Recovery Practices by Isla Salt

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Yannic Laderach, Unsplash)

Recovery from addiction is a deeply personal and often challenging journey. Each individual faces unique struggles, yet a common thread binds everyone together—the need for healing that nurtures both the body and the mind. Traditional treatments like medical detox and counselling are essential, but recovery extends beyond them. To truly sustain sobriety, many people benefit from incorporating supportive practices that promote physical wellness, emotional balance, and meaningful social connections.

Holistic recovery approaches focus on treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of substance use disorder. This means addressing the emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual aspects of health. Within this framework, two practices stand out for their effectiveness and accessibility: yoga as a healing tool and group therapy as a platform for connection and accountability. Together, these methods create a powerful balance, helping individuals not only manage cravings and triggers but also build resilience and long-term stability.

Understanding the Need for Holistic Healing

Addiction impacts far more than just the body. While substances can cause direct harm to organs and brain function, the cycle of dependency often disrupts emotional health and weakens relationships. Recovery programs that focus exclusively on physical detoxification may overlook the importance of mental clarity, emotional regulation, and social support—elements that are equally important in building a healthy life.

Supportive recovery practices go hand in hand with evidence-based therapies to address these needs. By combining structured treatments with holistic methods, people in recovery gain tools to manage stress, regulate emotions, and connect with others who understand their struggles. This integration often leads to improved outcomes and a reduced risk of relapse.

Yoga as a Pathway to Recovery

One of the most effective practices in holistic recovery is yoga for addiction recovery. Yoga provides more than just physical exercise; it is a discipline that strengthens the body, calms the mind, and fosters inner awareness. For people in recovery, yoga offers a constructive way to process emotions, cope with stress, and rebuild confidence.The benefits of yoga extend into multiple dimensions of healing:

  • Physical strength and resilience: Addiction often leaves the body weakened. Yoga helps restore energy, balance, and flexibility, giving individuals a sense of vitality.
  • Mental clarity: Breathwork and meditation in yoga reduce anxiety and improve focus, making it easier to navigate triggers and cravings.
  • Emotional regulation: Yoga encourages mindfulness, helping individuals respond to stress rather than react impulsively.
  • Spiritual connection: For many, yoga fosters a sense of purpose and inner peace, providing a meaningful counterbalance to past struggles.

Practicing yoga in recovery also creates structure and routine, both of which are essential for maintaining sobriety. Whether practiced individually or in a group setting, yoga can become a safe space to reconnect with oneself and rediscover a healthier way of living.

(image: Unsplash: Helena Lopes)

The Role of Community in Recovery

While practices like yoga are powerful for personal healing, recovery is not meant to be a solitary process. Addiction thrives in isolation, and overcoming it requires connection, support, and accountability. This is where community-based approaches such as group therapy play a vital role.

Human beings are social by nature, and support networks are key to emotional resilience. In group settings, individuals can share their stories, listen to others, and gain reassurance that they are not alone in their struggles. This shared experience often reduces shame and fosters empathy, which are critical for long-term healing.

Group Therapy as a Cornerstone of Support

Group therapy for substance abuse provides a safe and structured environment where individuals can open up about their experiences. Guided by a trained therapist, group sessions encourage honesty, accountability, and peer support. Unlike individual therapy, which focuses on one person’s journey, group therapy highlights the power of collective healing. Key benefits of group therapy include:

  • Shared understanding: Listening to others with similar struggles helps normalize feelings and experiences.
  • Accountability: Members often motivate each other to stay on track and celebrate progress.
  • Skill-building: Sessions may teach coping strategies, communication skills, and relapse prevention tools.
  • Hope and inspiration: Seeing others succeed in recovery can inspire confidence and determination.

Group therapy also helps individuals rebuild social skills that may have eroded during addiction. By practicing healthy communication and learning to trust again, participants strengthen the foundations of meaningful relationships outside the therapy room.

Balancing Individual and Collective Healing

The combination of yoga and group therapy illustrates how both individual and collective healing practices can work hand in hand. Yoga allows individuals to reconnect with themselves, build strength, and find calm in the face of challenges. Group therapy provides the encouragement and accountability that comes from shared experiences. Together, these practices address both the internal and external dimensions of recovery.

For many, the integration of body-focused and community-based approaches creates a balanced recovery journey. It ensures that healing is not only about overcoming physical dependence but also about cultivating emotional stability and social connection.

The Long-Term Impact of Supportive Practices

Recovery is not a short-term process—it is a lifelong commitment. Supportive practices like yoga and group therapy provide tools that individuals can carry with them long after formal treatment has ended. These practices foster resilience, helping individuals manage stress, cope with setbacks, and continue growing on their path to wellness.

Some people incorporate yoga as part of their daily routine, using it as a grounding practice. Others rely on ongoing group sessions or peer support communities to maintain accountability. The beauty of supportive recovery practices is their adaptability—they can evolve with a person’s needs and provide consistent strength throughout life.

Creating a Sustainable Recovery Lifestyle

The journey to sobriety is about much more than simply avoiding substances. It is about creating a lifestyle that supports health, purpose, and connection. A sustainable recovery lifestyle often includes:

  • Regular physical activity, such as yoga or other mindful exercises.
  • Participation in therapy or peer support groups.
  • Healthy nutrition and sleep habits.
  • Engagement in meaningful work, hobbies, or service.
  • Building strong, supportive relationships.

When individuals embrace both holistic and therapeutic practices, they are better equipped to live fulfilling lives beyond addiction.

Final Thoughts

Healing from addiction requires more than detoxification or medication—it requires a comprehensive approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. Practices like yoga provide personal healing and inner balance, while group therapy fosters community, accountability, and shared growth. Together, they create a powerful foundation for lasting recovery.

By embracing supportive recovery practices, individuals not only overcome addiction but also rediscover the strength, resilience, and joy needed to build a healthier and more purposeful life.

This blog contains sponsored links.

Nutrition, Sleep And Mindset – The Answer to a Magnificent Menopause by Author Alison Bladh

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Alison Bladh/ Chocolate PR)

An award winning nutritionist and beauty therapist who’s helped hundreds of women globally to navigate menopause with wellness in mind is celebrating having climbed the Amazon book charts to become a No.1 Bestselling author, outperforming the likes of Davina McCall, Lisa Snowdon and Dr Louise Newson, with new Menopause manual –‘Have a Magnificent Menopause: A Straightforward Guide to Looking Good and Feeling Great’ 

Alison Bladh, 56, who is also a clinical supervisor for Nutritional Therapy at the University of West London, splits her time between the UK and Sweden was excited to see the book reach the top 30 bestselling books overall on Amazon Sweden across all genres including fiction and non-fiction, one of the only health titles to break the coveted Top 50, highlighting the demand for evidence-based, practical menopause support.

Offering women over 40 a no nonsense guide to thriving through perimenopause, menopause and beyond with or without Hormone Replacement Therapy, this straight-talking manual is already being praised as “a breath of fresh air in the menopause space”, and described as “like having a wise best friend, nutritionist and beauty therapist rolled into one.” 

Sharing practical guides, check lists and real women’s stories alongside clinical research and scientific studies, Alison’s mission is simple –  to help women over 40 take back control of their bodies, rediscover their energy, and feel confident and empowered in their skin again, after researching menopause became a passion of hers, having witnessed her mother suffer in silence  at a time when the topic was taboo. 

“Menopause, though more openly discussed in some countries today, is still stigmatised as something negative”, she said. “Growing up in a strict British household, I remember watching my mother and the women around her, all navigating perimenopause, suffering through what was then simply referred to as “The Change”. Nobody talked about it. It was shrouded in silences, misconceptions and misinformation.”

“While things are improving slowly in some parts of the world, this isn’t the case everywhere and there’s still a lot of work to be done. Women deserve knowledge, support and care during this natural stage of life. Menopause isn’t about fading into the background or becoming less relevant. It’s about stepping into a new kind of power, one where experience, wisdom and purpose shape the next chapter of our lives in ways that extend far beyond motherhood.”

The book tackles common challenges, everything from fatigue, brain fog and weight gain to confidence, skincare and mindset, helping women feel vibrant and in control at every stage of life. The tone is supportive and straight talking, cutting through confusing advice and adresses “menowashing” to deliver clear, evidence based solutions that work.

“Menopause is not something to ‘get through’ it is a wake up call to start putting yourself first” she says. “You deserve to feel in control, strong and beautiful and this starts with understanding your body and taking small yet powerful steps each day”.

“Have a Magnificent Menopause: A Straightforward Guide to Looking Good and Feeling Great”  will resonate with any woman who has ever stood in front of the mirror wondering where she went and is now ready to find her again”, she added.

(image: Alison Bladh/ Chocolate PR)

Here she shares 5 practical tips from the book to help women start feeling better today:

Alison’s Top Tips for ‘Thriving, Not Just Surviving’

1. Follow the 90/10 Rule
Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean restriction or perfection. The 90/10 rule is about nourishing your body with supportive foods 90% of the time  like protein, healthy fats, fibre, leafy greens and slow-release carbs  while still leaving room for 10% of the treats that make life enjoyable. Whether it’s a slice of cake with friends or a glass of wine on a special occasion, this balanced approach helps women stay consistent without guilt. It’s realistic, sustainable and removes the all-or-nothing mindset that often leads to frustration. Eating well should be empowering, not punishing.

2. Start the Day with Protein, Not Caffeine
Reaching for a coffee first thing in the morning might feel like second nature, but it can actually spike your cortisol and send your blood sugar on a rollercoaster. Instead, start your day with 20–30 grams of protein to support hormone balance, energy, focus and mood. A protein-rich breakfast  such as eggs, Greek yoghurt, tofu scramble or a protein smoothie helps stabilise your blood sugar, reduces mid-morning crashes, and keeps cravings at bay. This small shift can make a big difference to how you feel all day long.

3. Keep a Cooling Toolkit in Your Bag
Hot flushes and sudden temperature spikes can be distressing, especially in public. That’s why I always recommend keeping a “cooling toolkit” with you. This might include a peppermint facial mist, a mini hand fan, cooling wipes, or essential oil rollers (peppermint or lavender work well). Having something to soothe and cool you down helps you manage symptoms discreetly and confidently. It’s a small act of self-care that reinforces one important truth: you are not powerless, you are prepared.

4. Digital Declutter for Hormonal Health
Our devices might keep us connected, but they can also wreak havoc on our hormones. Constant notifications, social media scrolling and screen time raise cortisol levels, interfere with melatonin production and contribute to stress and poor sleep, all of which worsen menopausal symptoms. A daily digital break, even just 20–30 minutes, can calm the nervous system, ease anxiety, and support better emotional balance. Turn off the noise, step away from the screen, and reclaim some stillness. It’s one of the simplest ways to feel more grounded.

5. Swap Wine O’Clock for Magnesium Time
It’s tempting to unwind with a glass of wine at the end of a long day but alcohol can disrupt sleep, trigger hot flushes and make anxiety worse. Instead, create a relaxing evening ritual with magnesium. A warm magnesium-rich drink or a magnesium supplement can help soothe your nervous system, relax tense muscles and prepare your body for restful sleep. It’s a healthier wind-down option that supports hormonal balance and helps you wake up feeling restored instead of groggy. You’re still prioritising yourself just without the hormonal backlash.

For more tips see  https://www.alisonbladh.com/book

5 Daily Habits for Mental Clarity and Emotional Balance by Miranda Spears.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Roxana Zerni, Unsplash)

You need daily habits in your life for mental clarity; these daily habits are often vital for wellbeing. Sometimes your mental health might take a dip, you might feel drained, depressed or feeling like you are left behind and cannot keep up. Here are some daily habits that can help to boost your mental health:

Practice Morning Mindfulness

Mindfulness can include simple tasks such as starting off the day on a positive note and setting good intentions by writing or speaking affirmations or engaging in prayer. Every day after you get up, you should make your bed as this is a small exercise that will only take two minutes of your day and prepare for a good day. As soon as you get up, do some simple, mindful stretches like swinging your arms in circles or doing the cobra pose to prepare your body for a focused day quickly. 

Move Your Body

You should move your body and avoid sitting in one place, as moving around ensures that blood flows to your brain better and faster, providing it with oxygen, and activities like taking a stroll, especially early morning strolls when the weather is nice and there is calm in the air, are also good for you. You can breathe in fresh air and it makes you look at things from a new perspective. So, take morning or lunchtime walks so you may be prepared for the day. You can also do activities like yoga which boosts mindfulness and helps you get mental clarity. It can also calm your mood, and you can also do cardio workouts like cycling and running to give your brain the pump of blood it needs and help you think more clearly and better. 

Fuel Your Brain 

If you want your brain to think clearly, you must provide it with the right type of nutrients, too. You should make a list of foods that are good for your mental health and incorporate them into your daily routine. You can have fruits and vegetables, healthy carbs and proteins as your brain cells need nourishment to think better, too! You should also drink water and get yourself hydrated, as water makes your blood move around the body faster, wakes up your brain, and increases brain function. Also, you can take supplements like chlorella, a high protein plant. Some chlorella benefits include detoxification and improved focus, which are good for mental clarity.

Journalling for Emotional Release

There are some activities, like journalling, that you can do at the end of the day to let go of any stress that your body has. You can write about the things that went wrong in the day and what went well. Take your time to reflect on things so you do not end up overthinking things and overstimulating your brain. You should have a journal by your bed so if you feel like some unprocessed thoughts are coming to you, you can vent them out in your journal, which should help your mental health. 

Sleep Better

Establish a bedtime routine for yourself that is unique to you so that you can look forward to it every night, and it helps you sleep better. You can read a book, lower the brightness of the lights in your room, and have decaffeinated tea or water. You should also avoid screens before going to bed, the LED light is not good for your eyes and does not let you sleep well. The use of screens has proven to have a strong link with less sleep time and delayed sleep. 

Daily activities for your mental health require you to be consistent and true to yourself if you really want to see the results.. So, start with something small like making your bed and practicing mindfulness and then keep on adding some activities to your routine so by the end of a few days, you meet with a better, improved version of yourself, one with a clear mind and better health.

This blog was written by Miranda Spears.

Why Magnesium Baths Are The New Self-Care Ritual by Miranda Spears.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Pexels: Gabby K)

Self care is so important, so why not try a Magnesium Bath? Magnesium baths rely upon magnesium salts (typically magnesium sulfate or magnesium chloride) dissolved in warm water to create a solution with beneficial qualities. Magnesium ions are absorbed through the skin during your soak through a physical process called transdermal absorption, which relaxes muscles by balancing nerve impulses to muscles, and it also reduces inflammation. Magnesium is also beneficial in the production of cell energy as it helps in the production of ATP and enhances the quality of sleep, due to the control of melatonin release. Here we present five evidence-based ways magnesium baths support physical recovery, skin health, mental clarity,

Deep Absorption of Minerals in Warm Baths to Revitalise Muscles

By soaking in warm water with magnesium bath flakes, you’ll be getting a concentrated dose of this vital mineral that will be absorbed directly into the skin. Magnesium ions penetrate the skin through the flakes, entering the muscles when they disrupt pain transmission and minimise the markers of inflammation. This is selective absorption and initiates recovery of active stress, therefore, heals stiffness as well as increases flexibility. The sources of tensions dissolve, and your previously tensed muscles turn into elastic cords capable of moving in any direction. Habitual soaks enhance soothing properties, so, you can live an active life, without muscle soreness.

Enhancing Mental Clarity with Sensory-Rich Immersion

Warm water helps lighten the burden of daily challenges, and magnesium gratefully taps into neurotransmitters like GABA and tones the impartiality of moods. With every deep breath of subtly scented extra essential oils or plant infusions, every breath is gets a little stronger, until you can relax deeply. You become able to go back into your environment, and you can go and do things in a purposeful manner. Recharging of the mind roots you throughout the day in a state of productivity.

Lifting the Home Spa Atmosphere

More than minerals and water are required to turn a typical bathroom into a sanctuary. You can use soft towels, controllable lights, and adornments that create an atmosphere that welcomes relaxation. Include small-scale candles on the periphery of the tub with flames that provide soft illumination. The slightest bit of greenery helps bring nature inside for relaxation.

Gentle Agents to Boost Skin Health with Nourishment

In addition to relaxing the muscles, a magnesium bath helps to give the skin a glow. The mineral helps to hydrate and repair the cells due to its ability to attract moisture to the epidermal layer. During soaking, scrub a bit with a side brush or natural sponge to scrub off dull cells, and in turn, boost circulation. Pat dry and trap moisture by using a light natural oil or serum, and the skin will absorb the nutrients. As time progresses, you will feel that your skin has become smooth already and has a healthy glow that is a result of constant renewal with the help of minerals, so your skin will feel refreshed too.

Retraining to Have Restful Sleeping Routines

Magnesium soaks in the evenings, prepare you to take a lovely, restorative sleep with the help of balancing various hormones that control your circadian rhythm. The temperature reduction when exiting the bath into cool air is an indication to your body that you should take a rest and relax. You will sleep more comfortably, more deeply, with less anxiety and you should end up waking up in a good mood.

Magnesium baths are refreshing and also spiritually enhancing. Muscles relax, minds can be more focused, skin becomes radiant, and sleep comes as easily as breathing. This habit goes beyond relaxation and becomes a specific gesture of care taken towards yourself, one that re-echoes in all the levels of your life. By doing that, every bath will become the ritual of rejuvenation, a special moment created especially in your favour where the stress of the day is washed away and health prevails.

This article was written by Miranda Spears and contains some sponsored links.

Coping With Health Anxiety In Caring Roles: A Guide For Professionals Who Hold It All Together by Jolian Ardolino at Ardolino Counselling

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

Author: Jolian Ardolino

(image: Unsplash: Angelina Sarycheva)

If you’re reading this, you likely know what it’s like to care deeply for others – whether as a nurse, paramedic, therapist, social worker, or in one of the many roles that keep our communities going. But here’s something we don’t say out loud enough: caring for others can quietly take its toll on our own wellbeing, especially when it comes to health anxiety.


The Hidden Weight of Health Anxiety in Caring Professions

Caring professionals are often assumed to be unshakeable in a crisis – the calm in the storm, the voice of reason when others are spiralling. But what happens when your own mind starts to race? When a fleeting ache becomes a late-night Google search, and that spirals into a restless night? Or when the stories you hear at work bleed into fears about your own health or loved ones?

Health anxiety isn’t “just worrying” or “hypochondria.” It’s a very real, common challenge for those who look after others. NHS surveys found 76% of staff experienced a mental health issue last year, with over half reporting anxiety. We absorb others’ pain and witness uncertainty, sometimes internalising that anxiety until it shapes our own thoughts and behaviours.


Why Caring Professionals Are Prone to Health Anxiety

Caring roles put us face-to-face with illness, unpredictability, and loss. We’re trained to scan for problems – a strength that can turn inward, fuelling cycles of health anxiety. Many of us are also experts at minimising our own needs. My clients (and yes, I’ve been there myself) often struggle to switch off “helper mode” and create space for their own wellbeing. No wonder health anxiety can creep in.


Recognising the Signs

Health anxiety can show up in subtle – and not-so-subtle – ways:

– Excessive checking: Monitoring your body for symptoms, repeatedly seeking reassurance, or going down “Dr Google” rabbit holes.
– Preoccupation: Struggling to focus on anything but health worries, even outside work.
– Avoidance: Steering clear of situations or tasks for fear of illness.
– Physical symptoms: Real sensations (like palpitations, headaches, or stomach issues) that reinforce anxious thoughts.
– Sleep disturbance: Lying awake, unable to switch off your mind.



My Integrative Approach: You’re Not Alone

As a therapist specialising in anxiety, stress, and burnout among caring professionals, I understand the unique pressures you face – not just as a therapist, but as someone who’s walked in your shoes. At Ardolino Counselling, my approach combines:

– CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy): We map the cycle of anxious thoughts and behaviours, learning practical ways to break free from unhelpful patterns. CBT helps you question catastrophic thinking and gently test healthier beliefs.
– ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy): We work on making space for uncertainty, learning to “unhook” from distressing thoughts, and focusing on what really matters – without trying to eliminate anxiety altogether.
– Person-centred therapy: All our work is grounded in compassion, empathy, and respect for your unique story and strengths.

It’s not about “fixing” you – it’s about working together so you can keep doing the work you care about, without being overwhelmed.

Image: Unsplash: Tim Mossholder)

Practical Tips: Coping Day-to-Day

1. Challenge Catastrophic Thinking 
When a health worry pops up, pause and ask: “What’s the evidence for this thought? Am I assuming the worst?” Label these as “catastrophic thoughts,” and consider: “What’s a more balanced or likely explanation?” Notice how believable the new thought feels and how you might behave differently if you believed it.

2. Ground Yourself in the Present 
When anxiety spirals, try grounding techniques like box breathing or the “5-4-3-2-1” exercise: name five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste. This anchors you in the here and now.

3. Limit Reassurance and ‘Dr Google’ 
Notice when you’re seeking reassurance – asking colleagues, Googling symptoms, or scanning your body. Set gentle limits on these habits, reminding yourself: “Uncertainty is uncomfortable, but I can handle it.” Reducing reassurance-seeking helps break the anxiety cycle.

4. Set Boundaries to Protect Your Energy 
Give yourself permission to say no, or to step back from work worries outside your shift. Small routines – like a walk after work or a tech-free hour – help reinforce this boundary and support your wellbeing.

5. Reach Out for Support 
If anxiety persists, talking things through with a trusted friend, colleague, or therapist can give you perspective and relief. You don’t have to manage it alone.

When to Reach Out

Everyone experiences worry sometimes. But it’s worth seeking help if:

– Health anxiety is interfering with your work, relationships, or daily life.
– You’re finding it hard to “switch off,” even away from work.
– You’re avoiding situations or tasks because of health fears.
– Your anxiety is getting worse, not better, over time.

Mental health struggles are common and nothing to be ashamed of. Reaching out isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a step towards regaining balance and resilience. Many caring professionals find that talking to someone outside their immediate work circle helps them process fears and develop healthier ways of coping.

Ready for Real Change?

If health anxiety is making it harder to do the job you love, you deserve support tailored to you as a caring professional. At Ardolino Counselling, I offer a free, no-pressure 15-minute consultation to see if therapy feels right for you. Sessions are available UK-wide (online or in Barry, South Wales) with flexible scheduling, including Fridays, evenings, and weekends.

Special Blue Light Card Offer: 
Blue Light Card holders receive 50% off their first 8 sessions. Block bookings are also available for added savings.

You give so much care and skill to others. Let’s make sure you get the same support in return.

Book your free consultation here and take the first step towards a calmer, more confident you.

This post contains a sponsored link and was written by Jolian Ardolino, therapist.

Living With Imposter Syndrome As A Writer by Eleanor

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Unsplash)

I wrote about this a little bit a few days ago on my Instagram and Facebook but thought I would write a longer blog here.

So here goes…

In 2016, I started this little blog as a place to share my emotions and feelings around living with anxiety and panic attacks, processing trauma I had been through a few years before and just as a place to vent to family and friends. Nearly 10 years later, I and many contributors have kept this wonderful corner of the internet going and I am very grateful.

From 2016 onwards, I began to write my heart for mental health charities and national publications after sending pitch emails to them about my more unusual story of being diagnosed with bipolar at 16 and hospitalised twice by 25. At the time, bipolar was way less talked about (with psychosis and hospitalisation still a major taboo) and I wanted to be a part of changing that.

Amazingly everything started to click into place after I began online networking with editos… I was writing articles for Metro.co.uk regularly on mental health (Thank you Yvette!), I was featured in Glamour and the Telegraph (thank you editors!), I started writing for Jewish community papers and for a new magazine at the time, Happiful. Then, I decided I wanted to submit my journey with bipolar from 16 onwards to Trigger Publishing as a memoir and signed with them for a book deal in 2018. 2018 was a year of manifestation and synchronicity for me in many areas of my life.

Then, I was asked to write my story to be featured in the Book of Hope by my friends Jonny Benjamin MBE and Britt Pfluger alongside celebrities including Dame Kelly Holmes, Zoella, Alastair Campbell ,Elizabeth Day, Joe Wicks and many others including friends in the mental health writing world. Seeing my name on the cover alongside all these successful people I admired was something else and again my story of hope against adversity was being shared globally to help people who needed it.

My own book Bring me to Light came out in November 2019 just a few months before the Covid Pandemic and so I couldn’t get out there to promote it fully but it still did well on Amazon and was sold in Waterstones and globally. Its something I am hugely proud of despite sometimes feeling shy that my story is out there for all tom read.

Since 2020, I have kept blogging, writing for Metro.co.uk from time to time and I finally self published my children’s book Arabella and the Worry Cloud. However, imposter syndrome has really kicked in, let me explain.

The start of my writing career happened when I was unemployed due to my mental health. I had to leave a face to face teaching job due to my anxiety. I had no idea that this little blog for friends and family would turn into so much. In fact I would say it was a total whirlwind. I was only 30 when I signed my book deal (independently without an agent). I was just 28 when I started writing openly about my mental health and I often feel like an imposter! That little voice that says you’re not good enough because…

I am an independent writer which means I don’t yet have an agent but I have been published before by several publishers and I have also self published my kids book. So I worry that I won’t ever find an agent, that my dream of being a professional author with a team around me (agent, marketing team, earning good money from my craft) seems out of reach. In this industry as well when you pitch to agents to take on your book, it comes with a lot of rejection. My children’s book for example was rejected by Pan Macmillan (although I was fortunate to know someone there who was able to look at my manuscript). I know I need to keep going to help others, but sometimes it feels super lonely and you have to be so resilient. Rejection is normal but its hard.

I chose not to go into journalism full time in a news room for health reasons but I love to write freelance from home and hope to continue to do so.

I guess I feel like an imposter because my career that I did work hard for, came after my former editor Yvette connected with me on Twitter, she liked my blog and commissioned me to write mental health articles (despite at that point never meeting). This was the same for so many incredible editors who gave me their time and knowledge including Naomi Greenaway at the Telegraph , Deborah Joseph (formerly of Glamour) and Rebecca at Happiful. I truly feel blessed these women championed me and my writing.

So I guess what I want to say is that its OK to feel like you aren’t there yet, like you aren’t good enough, like the mountain of where you want to be is too hard to climb. What I have found is when people believe in you, in your ideas, in your story and when you can find that inner confidence and believe in yourself- incredible things can happen. You can manifest your dreams and I do believe one day more will manifest (even if my little imposter voice speaks up).

I want to end this story with something quite relevant that haunts me to this day. I was staying at my Dads when I was writing my first book, in the middle of the Buckinghamshire countryside at the time. I was more ‘high profile’ in the mental health world and very prolific on Twitter back in 2018-19 and so I received an email invitation from a producer at BBC Women’s Hour for a segment they were doing about bipolar. She asked if I would come on the show to talk about it. My fear/ panic about being exposed and too seen (and not worthy) meant I didn’t feel able to do it and I have kicked myself ever since! If anyone from Women’s Hour is reading this (haha) please do get back in touch!

But seriously- sometimes fear and anxiety stops us from doing what we most want to do but are too frightened to do. I still feel scared to give talks about my kids book. I look at others on Instagram who are Sunday Times Bestsellers and have agents and I think to myself….will I ever get there? Unfortunately social media comparisonitis at age 36 (i know I am still young) is still rife.

I think I have to remember that its OK to feel like this, as my friends have told me, so many creatives do. And its ok to take my time, work hard and see where it lands. It’s also OK to take other jobs while being a writer isn’t paying a main income too. I feel imposter syndrome in other areas of my life too but thats a blog for another day.

Do you feel imposter syndrome?

Thanks for reading,

Ellie x

9th Blog Anniversary of Be Ur Own Light!

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Ginger Ray)

Whenever 1st March rolls around, I feel a tremendous sense of pride but also – how has it been so many years since I started blogging on WordPress about my mental health?

Be Ur Own Light Blog started on 1st March 2016 after I had had to leave a face to face job because I was having panic attacks and couldn’t get in to work. I saw blogging as a form of therapy.. and in truth, I was only originally sharing with friends and family because I felt really alone with it. That eventually snowballed into me writing for Rethink Mental Illness and then in the national media, speaking at a few in-person events and recording podcasts. It was also an honour to be included in several books including ‘The Book of Hope’ by Jonny Benjamin MBE and Britt Pfluger, talking about life with bipolar.

There’s times I still feel alone with my health but I also have so much support and understanding from family and friends and readers here too, which helps a great deal.

I just want to thank everyone we have collaborated with in the past year (sponsored or not)- brands, charities, businesses, individuals making a difference in the mental health world. Thank you for writing blogs for Be Ur Own Light and our personal mission of taking a sledgehammer to the stigma of mental illness (or trying to!).

Thank you also to everyone who has promoted or bought my books, especially my recent kids book ‘Arabella and the Worry Cloud’. I am so proud of ‘Bring me to Light’ too and hope sharing my story continues to help people.

If you’ve been following this journey for 9 years (or longer)- thank YOU for being here for the ride and continuing to read, support and show up.

It has been harder for me in the past 2 years to authentically share everything about my mental health and other health things on here but one day I hope that our journey can inspire others. I live in remission from Bipolar due to my medications holding me and I never forget daily how lucky I am to have access to mental health medications (due to living in the UK) and an excellent therapist, plus support from family.

Going forward, I will still be blogging but I am hoping that the sequel to Arabella and the Worry Cloud will manifest soon. I have written it, I just need the funds to secure everything! Shout out to my friend and illustrator Shelley. I hope also that Arabella will continue to reach more children and find it’s way to all who need its message.

Thank you all of you for enabling me to blog and write and hopefully help people with bipolar, depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic attacks etc. Thank you to every person who has read a blog, bought a book, shared an article, commissioned me in the press to write an article on mental health or current affairs and to all who have or continue to believe in me- including my amazing husband and family. and of course G-d who is behind everything.

Love and gratitude,

Ellie x