Tag: Health and wellness

5 Steps to Finding Deeper Inner Peace by Miranda Spears

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Amy Treasure: Unsplash)

In a world of continuous alerts, daily stresses, and the need to be effective, inner peace can be a distant, even impossible idea, but there are still moments- tiny, little corners that speak of peace. The difficulty is to get back to that silence when life is noisy.

These are five easy and considerate steps that can be used to guide the path towards inner peace. All of them need perfection, but most importantly, they need willingness.

1.   Make Room to Pause

The sound of daily life usually overshadows what is important. It does not mean that one has to retreat or change drastically to slow down. Other times, it is just a choice of sitting down and taking a few minutes before rushing out the door or taking a walk without music or any other distractions.

Space is the process of letting the mind breathe. It is in silence that thoughts can settle. The ever-rotating motion starts to decelerate. This is where the foundation of peace is made by creating space in your busy lives.

2.   Listen to the Body

In many cases, the body narrates before the mind can comprehend. The tight shoulders, shallow breathing, and clenched jaws are indications that something is wrong inside. Peace is not only about having the right thoughts, but it is also about feeling safe and being in the body.

That is why physical awareness is important. Observing posture, breath, or tension may be a way to come back to the present. In case you live in the region/USA, somatic healing Orange County specialists can lead this type of body-based consciousness in a more comprehensive, supported manner. They are concerned with making people realise that emotions and experiences are stored in the body, and this can be the gateway to healing and permanent peace.

3.   Make Things as Simple as Possible

It is not possible to have peace in a filthy environment. Whether it is a cluttered room or a cluttered calendar, what fills your space and what fills your time is what defines your feelings on the inside. Simple does not imply giving up everything.

It is a matter of making decisions that can really promote well-being.  It can be as easy as removing two or three items that you do not need, like saying no without feeling guilty, or emptying the small drawer that has been cluttered up long ago.

All small streamlining gestures say something that life does not need to be hectic, and in most cases, there is peace beyond the clutter.           

Each small act of streamlining says something: Life does not need to be busy, and in many cases, there is peace on the other side of the clutter.

4.   Gentle Self-Honesty

Peace does not imply evading harsh realities. Actually, one of the most obvious ways to become whole is honesty, which is said in a kind way to oneself. This type of honesty is not judgmental. It is about the soft question of what you really need, or if this is how you want to live.

Truthful contemplation can raise painful feelings. It also brings clarity. And in that clarity, peace may start to grow.

5.   Find Time for Others

Life has its moments of greater meaning, the sunrise, laughing with a loved one, or doing something nice to a stranger without any reward. These are the times that make you remember that you are more than the to-do list.

Inner peace can be found by looking at meaningful moments, not urgent moments. It is the act of paying attention to what is joyful, awing, or connecting. These experiences satisfy something within that nothing in terms of productivity or distraction ever can.

The more meaningful moments are embraced, the more they increase, and in them, there comes a feeling of peace that does not rise and fall with the day.

Conclusion

Inner peace is not a place to visit. It is a soft manner of getting around in the world, of being with yourself in a kind and openhearted way.

The small moments are the beginning of peace. It is fed by being there, fed by telling the truth, and cultivated by being in touch with the body, with others, and with what is most important.

This blog was written by Miranda Spears

New Year, Rome Holiday and Health by Eleanor

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: QuoteFancy)

Hi everyone!

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year 2025!

January can be a challenging month for us all, post the festivities and time off work. I just thought I would write a little update here.

This year, I am looking for a new role in Digital Communications for charities/ lifestyle brands, Journalism or Writing. I have also written the sequel to Arabella and the Worry Cloud– which is very exciting. I loved writing it and hope to work on it further this year :). The story came to me in Summer 2024 and I have been refining it. This month, my story (and my Dads) is also featured in ‘The Inherited Mind’, an amazing book by journalist James Longman about his search to understand whether mental illness is inherited – which is out now with Hyperion Books!

I had some time off over Christmas break and my husband Rob and I spent a wonderful holiday in Rome. It was really wonderful to explore the city (Robs first time there), eat lots of delicious food and just have time together! We tend to go away in the Winter due to Robs annual leave and have lots of lovely memories to sustain us through the new year (we went to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, Stadio Olimpico and Jewish Museum). We visited lots of restaurants and an amazing gelato shop (Marlene’s) and went shopping. We spent New Years Eve eating a yum dinner with wine and it was a very special week.

My health is a work in progress. I am working with the NHS Oviva programme to lose weight at the moment- which I hope will boost my fertility and general health- both mental and physical (and hopefully improve my PCOS). I will give more updates on that when I have experienced more of the programme- but I am working alongside a dietitian and medical professionals.

Mentally, it has not been an easy time and there has been a lot going on outside of all of this, but I am trying to take it day by day, hour by hour and create new opportunities for myself to thrive. There’s times where we all don’t feel good enough and have imposter syndrome. I do believe miracles happen when we choose joy and choose to co-create. The right opportunities will come- career wise, financially and health wise. I have been feeling more anxious at times but every day is different and I am trying to reset and look after myself, and those around me.

Here’s to a a happy and healthy 2025 with lots of amazing things manifesting!

How was your break?

Love,

Eleanor

5 Benefits of Existential Therapy by Lizzie Weakley.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Austin Chan, Unsplash)

It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel lost, overwhelmed, or dissatisfied with their lives. You may struggle to find meaning and purpose, leading to a sense of unease and frustration. This is where existential therapy comes in. Existential therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on helping individuals confront and come to terms with the existential challenges of living. It can be a powerful tool for those seeking meaning and purpose in their lives. This blog post will explore 5 benefits of existential therapy.

Increased Self-Awareness

One of the key benefits of existential therapy is increased self-awareness. This helps individuals understand themselves on a deeper level. The therapy sessions provide a safe and supportive environment where people can explore their innermost thoughts and feelings. By gaining a better understanding of themselves, individuals are often able to make more informed choices and live more fulfilling lives.

Improved Coping Skills

Existential therapy also helps individuals develop better coping skills. The therapy sessions often involve exploring the challenges of living, such as the inevitability of death and the search for meaning and purpose. Through this exploration, individuals are able to develop better coping skills and strategies for dealing with the existential challenges of life. This counselling can lead to increased resilience and the ability to handle difficult situations with greater ease.

Greater Sense of Purpose

Another benefit of existential therapy is the development of a greater sense of purpose. Through the therapy sessions, individuals are encouraged to confront the big questions of life, such as “Who am I?” and “What is my purpose?” This exploration can be uncomfortable at times, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. By developing a greater sense of purpose, individuals often find that they are more motivated and fulfilled in their daily lives.

Improved Relationships

Existential therapy can also help individuals improve their relationships. By gaining a deeper understanding of themselves, individuals are often able to relate to others in a more meaningful way. By focusing on the existential challenges of living, such as the search for meaning and purpose, individuals are able to connect with others on a deeper, more authentic level. This can result in more fulfilling and meaningful relationships.

Increased Creativity

Finally, existential therapy can lead to increased creativity. By exploring the existential challenges of living, individuals are often inspired to think outside the box and express themselves in new and unique ways. This can lead to increased creativity and a sense of joy and fulfillment.

Overall, existential therapy can be a powerful tool for those seeking meaning and purpose in their lives. This therapy can lead to increased self-awareness, improved coping skills, a greater sense of purpose, improved relationships, and increased creativity. If you are struggling to find meaning and purpose in your life, consider exploring existential therapy as a way to move forward. Remember, you are not alone in your search for answers, and existential therapy can help you along the way.

This article was written by freelance writer Lizzie Weakley.

5 Ways Good Physical Health Can Improve Mental Health by Lizzie Weakley

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 1 Comment

(image: free image)

It’s no secret that physical and mental health are closely linked. When you’re physically healthy, you tend to feel better mentally and emotionally. The reverse is also true; when your mental health is suffering, your physical health often declines as well. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your physical health, especially if you’re struggling with mental health issues. Here are five ways that good physical health can improve mental health.

Improved Mood

When you’re physically healthy, you tend to have more energy and feel better overall. This can lead to an improved mood and a more positive outlook on life. If you’re feeling down, try getting some exercise or eating a nutritious meal. You may be surprised at how much better you feel afterwards!

Increased Relaxation

When you take care of your physical body, it helps reduce stress and tension. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects, and can also help you sleep better at night. A healthy diet provides your body with the nutrients you need to function properly, which can also help reduce stress levels. If you’re struggling with food intake, consider consulting with a dietician who is trained in mental health. They’ll be able to assist you with services tailored to help you both mentally and physically!

Improved Concentration and Memory

Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, which can improve brain function. Eating a healthy diet has also been linked with improved cognitive function. If you’re having trouble concentrating or remembering things, try adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet and increasing your activity level. You don’t have to do this all at once, but can gradually adjust your diet to include more whole foods.

Greater Sense of Accomplishment

When you set goals for yourself and then achieve them, it gives you a sense of accomplishment and boosts your self-esteem. Getting regular exercise and eating right are both great ways to set and achieve goals that improve your physical health while also improving your mental well-being. Consider rewarding yourself when you hit certain goals, such as finishing three days of exercising in a row. Before you know it, you’ll be forming healthy habits!

Enhanced Coping Skills

Having good physical health can give you the strength and endurance you need to get through difficult times. When you’re physically healthy, you have more energy to put towards coping with difficult situations. You can also use exercise and healthy eating as positive coping mechanisms when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed out. There’s a reason why many people like to go on a walk to clear their mind. Consider adding in these healthy coping mechanisms the next time you’re stressed.

If you’re struggling with your mental health, taking care of your physical health is a great place to start. There are many benefits to be gained from eating right and exercising regularly, not the least of which is improved mental well-being. So if you’re feeling down, try using some of these tips to boost your mood and improve your mental health.

This article was written by freelance writer Lizzie Weakley.

How to Look After Elderly Parents And Assist Them To Be Healthy And Happy.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 6 Comments
(image: Andrea Piacquadio: Pexels)

When you have aging parents there’s a lot that you need to consider. Getting them help and keeping them healthy as well as safe is usually at the top of most children’s priority lists. You also want to make sure that they are happy and enjoying their senior years. 

If you have been struggling to find ways to help your elderly relative feel more comfortable, there are a few things you can do to make sure they get the help that they need to stay healthy and happy. Take a look at the following steps.

Get Them Involved

As your parents age, they may need help in and around their homes. You may need to get them a live-in caregiver. A caregiver will help to ease any burdens you may be feeling and give your parents the chance to get assistance.

However, a caregiver can make your parents feel as if you are taking away their independence. This is why you need to make sure that you involve them in the process of finding someone to assist them. 

You will need to do interviews for live in care jobs, so get them involved. This can help them to feel less resentful and happier with the situation.

Sort Out Their Finances

Assisting your elderly relative in making sure that their finances are in order is something that you should do. 

Getting someone to assist them will cost money. Buying them the medication that they need or also call money. 

Take a look at their current financial assets and then decide if they need financial help. There may be some programs that you can apply to. 

Once you know how much money they are likely to need, especially in a month, you can ask family and even friends who are capable of assisting to do so.

Keep Them Safe

Another thing you need to do for your elderly relatives is to make sure you keep them as safe as possible. For elderly people, safety begins in the home. Be sure to declutter the floors and remove rugs and cords that can make them slip and fall. 

You can add grab bars in their bathroom and make sure they are railings on their stairs. Ensure that their homes are well lit especially if they live alone and that they have high-level security systems in their home to keep them safe.

Show Your Love

Part of taking care of elderly parents is making sure that they have all the things they need to be healthy and happy. It can be overwhelming sometimes because it may seem as if they need so much help. 

However, if you consider the points that have been given here and work on them you will be able to help your parent significantly.

Getting the right help, taking care of their finances, and keeping them safe are the main things you need to do to take care of your elderly relatives. 

This article was written by a freelance writer and contains links.

Smiling through the rain: Early morning anxiety and life with bipolar.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 7 Comments

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Its been almost a week or so since I have written a blog and thats because life has been hard lately. Due to my early morning panic attacks and increased anxiety about leaving the house at that time, I couldn’t get in to work. Luckily, I can do online work on home doing social media and writing, so that is one major plus point. However, currently I am seeking extra support about my morning anxiety and fears.

I have lived with my anxiety disorder for most of my life- it comes in times of stress or times when I get triggered by something I can’t always explain- having to get up early and achieve, having to show up in the morning despite feeling so quivery and vulnerable, having to feel like I can cope- when inside I feel so scared. For reasons I can’t always pinpoint.

I have tried so many therapies and I would say with me, I have to use things in combination like breathing techniques, meditation, distraction, colouring and exposure therapy. However, now I would very much like  to find a psychological therapy that works for me. I have had 3 lots of cognitive behavioural therapy, which for me doesn’t seem to take away the fear. It is helpful for understanding limiting beliefs  like ‘I’m not good enough’  or ‘ I can’t do this, I will mess up’  and then understand where these fears come from and how they impact on life.

Briefly I will explain that I believe these limiting beliefs have come about because of trauma. The trauma of being hospitalised a few years ago for my bipolar disorder and having to learn to live life and get back to normality again despite disruption. The trauma of not feeling good enough, not feeling like I can live up to my perfectionist standards- not wanting to let people in my life down or me down . Feeling like I have to really achieve and be good at everything I do, because this belief has helped me fight, fight, fight for life and everything in it.

I, like many others with mental health issues, am hard on myself. I have a little voice though that won’t be tamed and is constantly pushing me to achieve and help people, help myself, be better. This is because I know the pain of setback. I know the pain of fear. and I know the pain of being confined to a hospital ward. So when I am well- nothing will stop me. The panic attacks may stop part of my life, but they won’t stop me from telling my story and reaching others. They wont stop me from being able to live and being able to touch peoples hearts through my writing (this is what I strive for).

Right now, I am dreaming about so much and hoping to put these dreams into reality. I will get therapy and I will get better with much effort and time. I will not let this keep me down- because I, like so many with my conditions, am a fighter and I will make sure that I live life to the full.

And part of this therapy is writing on my blog and being authentic, real and honest. And being blessed and thankful for my medical team, family, boyfriend, friends and support networks. Support is everything and I am so lucky.

Thanks for reading <3.

Guest post by Lucy Boyle: What you need to know about Burnout Syndrome

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

burnout

Stress and pressure are a part of everyday life. Our jobs often bring a fast pace; we may have to meet deadlines, complete projects in a certain timeframe, or put up with stressful environments. No matter who you are or what you do, there’s a certain amount of stress that just “comes with the job”.

However, there are times when the pressure gets to be too much. You may have been dealing with days, weeks, months, or even years of too much work and not enough downtime. The stresses of the job may be piling up with the stresses at home. Eventually, you run the risk of what is known as “burnout syndrome”.

Burnout syndrome, also known as occupational or job burnout, is defined as “a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.” The symptoms of burnout include:

  • Exhaustion and fatigue
  • Frustration and negative emotions
  • Lack of motivation
  • Attention and concentration difficulties
  • Reduced performance on the job
  • Lack of personal care, unhealthy coping mechanisms (eating, smoking, drinking, etc.)
  • Interpersonal difficulties, both on the job and at home
  • Preoccupation with work, even when you’re not working
  • Chronic health problems
  • Illness (the result of chronic stress)
  • Headaches
  • Decreased satisfaction with the quality of your life

If you’re noticing these symptoms in your life, you may be suffering from or getting close to burnout.

But what causes burnout syndrome? How does it get from “I’m having a bad day at work” to the feeling of being overwhelmed, overburdened, and emotionally drained? There are a lot of things that can contribute to the feelings of burnout.

  • Interpersonal relationship problems at work, with coworkers, employees, or employers.
  • A lack of control in your life, feeling like you have no say in anything that goes on at work or home.
  • A lack of clarity in your job description or burden of responsibilities.
  • Monotony or chaos in your job—both can require a lot of energy to remain focused.
  • Company ethics, values, or methods of handling feedback, grievances, or complaints that are not aligned with yours.
  • A job that doesn’t fit with your skills or interest.
  • Isolation at work or home; you may feel like your social support is lacking.
  • An imbalance in your work-life routine, usually too much time spent at work and not enough at home.

All of these factors can add to your feelings of stress and anxiety. Over time, they simply INCREASE until you feel like the burden of your job is too much to bear.

The truth is that occupational burnout is incredibly common, especially among human service professions. ER physicians, nurses, social workers, teachers, engineers, lawyers, police officers, and customer service reps are all at a very high risk of burnout. The high-pressure environment and occupation add to the emotional demands of the job. Eventually, everything becomes too much to bear and you suffer from burnout.

So what can you do if you’re feeling burned out? How can you cope with the mounting stress and pressure that may eventually become too much to bear?

Engage socially. Social interaction and connection is one of the most effective antidotes to depression, anxiety, and stress. Spending time with family, friends, and coworkers can help you to feel better. Making friends at work can change the environment positively, making work seem less stressful because of you have a social support framework in place. Open up to people and share your feelings. It can release some of the pressure building inside you and encourage better connection with others.

Reframe your perspective. Instead of seeing work as a bore, a chore, or a stressor, try to find value in what you do. Your job benefits someone, so look at what you do as providing an invaluable service.

Evaluate your priorities. What’s more important to you: work or home life? If your career is important, find ways to focus on it without adding to your stress. Work on a better work-life balance. Take more time off work, even if it means someone else gets the promotion you wanted. Set boundaries on your time and availability. Set aside time to relax and unwind, both in the middle of and at the end of the day. Stop rushing around so much—from home to work and back home again. Focus on what matters: your health and happiness!

Change your lifestyle. Get more sleep. Eat better. Exercise more. Drink less coffee and alcohol. Read more books. Walk in the park more. Take a nap in the middle of the day. Move around more. Quit smoking. Improve your lifestyle, and you’ll find your body and mind better able to cope with the feelings of stress that could lead to burnout.

In the end, YOU are the one in control of your life. Make the decisions that will reduce stress, not add to it. Take care of your body, mind, and emotions, and you’ll avoid those feelings of burnout!

Lucy Boyle (@BoyleLucy2), is a full-time mother, blogger and freelance business consultant, interested in finance, business, home gardening and mental health.