Relationships Relationships, of all types, provide us with something that we do not get elsewhere, and this may be something different in each relationship. One of your relationships may be based upon trust and intimacy, another on a shared hobby while another provides support through difficult times. Some relationships are short lived and relate to …
The connection between mind and body Our emotions and physical health are strongly linked. Many of us recognise that when we are feeling stressed or overworked, we are more likely to become physically unwell. Equally, when we are struggling with a physical health problem such as flu or a broken bone that interferes with the …
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… It’s Christmas again! While many people enjoy this time of year more than any other, others struggle with it for a variety of reasons including family difficulties and loneliness. Even those who love Christmas can feel pressured to experience a perfect Christmas. Others may spend a large …
Mindful of the present Mindfulness is the awareness of your surroundings and own emotional state. Mindfulness is the opposite of being on autopilot. A lot of people talk about mindfulness and there are apps, colouring books and videos to help us achieve a mindful state of being. However, what are the true benefits of focusing …
Benefits of being true to yourself Being true to yourself is important for confidence, self-esteem, self-respect and even success. However, being true to your own beliefs and your own character can be difficult and linked to feeling trapped and anxious. You may feel overwhelmed by perceived responsibilities to other people and as though other people …
What is self-compassion? Compassion is the art of being kind, warm, sympathetic and concerned with the difficulties someone is experiencing. It is a lack of criticism or blame towards someone for their faults or behaviours. Self-compassion is that same experience, directed towards oneself. Self-compassion is a powerful tool. It can increase mental wellbeing, reduce negative …
Engulfment and enmeshment Engulfment refers to an all-encompassing immersion into a relationship; losing yourself in your new partner, or new friendship. It includes the belief that one only exists within, or cannot exist outside of, the relationship. This can cause difficulties including a feeling of dependency on your new partner and a loss of your …
Nurture and the inner voice As a child we hope to receive nurture: a kind, loving caregiver who provides for us both physically and emotionally. However, not all children experience this kind of care and even those who do eventually grow into adults and lose the instant access to this support. Therefore, it is important …
Common life transitions Life transitions occur throughout the lifetime: the arrival of a new sibling and starting school in childhood; starting work and new relationships in young adulthood; parenthood, moving house, adult children leaving home and retirement in mid or older life. The degree to which life events are perceived as stressful is dependent upon …
What is emotional intelligence? Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand, manage and use emotions effectively. Someone with a high level of emotional intelligence is more able to emphasise with others, stay calm in stressful situations and be in tune with the emotions of themselves and others. Alternatively, someone who struggles with emotional intelligence may …