As the year draws to a close, reflection becomes a way to honour where we’ve been and who we’ve become. Life moves quickly, and it’s easy to overlook the small victories or the lessons tucked inside challenges. Taking time to pause and look back can offer clarity, gratitude, and even closure.

Have you ever caught yourself pouring time, energy, or emotions into someone who consistently leaves you feeling exhausted? Maybe it’s someone you love deeply, someone you’ve invested in, or even someone you feel obligated to help. You’re not alone.

I've found myself in many seasons of waiting - some easier to navigate than others. These periods of anticipation and uncertainty have often left me questioning the direction of my life. Recently, a mundane occurrence right outside my window – roadworks on my street – has unexpectedly given me a new perspective.

Did you know that the simple act of touch can be a powerful tool in healing from trauma? Recent advances in neuroscience and psychology have shed light on why and how this works. Let's dive into the world of neuro-affective touch and its connection to Havening Techniques, unveiling the science behind why touch matters in trauma recovery.

It's easy to label a practice as 'trauma-informed', but the true essence lies far beneath the surface. In my journey, I've encountered many who use the term loosely, overlooking its depth. Real trauma-informed care requires not just knowledge but compassion, patience, and a genuine commitment to healing.

For many, including myself, the idea of reaching out for help can be accompanied by feelings of vulnerability and fear. Society often perpetuates the notion that we should be self-sufficient, strong, and capable of handling everything that life throws our way. As a result, I found myself silently struggling with my mental health, unable or unwilling to ask for the support I truly needed.

Looking back on my journey, I've realised that childhood's echoes have a way of resurfacing in unexpected places. Those innocent phrases like 'suck it up' or 'it's not your problem' held more power than I could have imagined. They seeped into the very fabric of my being, influencing the way I navigate emotions and relationships today.

During those difficult times, I learned that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Each person's journey through grief is unique, and it's essential to give yourself the time and space to heal in your own way. For me, honouring Danie's memory became a way of coping, I would celebrate on her birthday and mourn on the day of her passing. I collected photographs, wrote letters to her, and shared stories about her with our mutual friends and family. It brought a sense of connection as if she was still a part of our lives.

It can be daunting to confront the physical manifestation of emotional pain, but doing so can be an important step in the healing process. By working to support both our mental and physical health, we can begin to address the root causes of our pain and move towards a greater sense of wholeness and well-being.

As you go through life, you will encounter challenges and obstacles. But it's all happening in perfect flow, and everything is working out the way it's meant to. You are achieving greatness in your own way, and it's important to celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how big or small.

Life can be tough, and we all face challenges that can take a toll on our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. It's essential to take care of ourselves, and this involves letting go of unhealthy relationships or habits, learning from our mistakes, and practising self-care. In this post, we explore the power of self-love and respect, highlighting the importance of letting go, growing, and taking care of ourselves.