Public speaking is one of the most valuable skills in today's professional world. Whether you're presenting to a boardroom, speaking on a panel, or delivering a virtual talk, the ability to communicate clearly and confidently can open doors to new opportunities. Yet, for many, the mere thought of standing in front of an audience induces anxiety.
For those who live with anxiety, are neurodivergent, or feel the weight of societal expectations, 'masking' can feel like a shield. It's the act of blending in, suppressing the parts of oneself that feel too 'different' or 'much' in order to fit a mould. Masking can be a survival tool, a way to navigate environments where we fear rejection or misunderstanding. It can give us temporary relief: "If I just act like everyone else, I'll feel safe." And, our nervous system spends a lot of time looking for signals in our environment that tell us it is safe. Masking can also be exhausting, alienating, and denying our most authentic selves. Over time, it chips away at authenticity, leaving us wondering: Who am I beneath the mask?
I recently revisited Nan Shepherd's masterpiece, 'The Living Mountain'. It is a revelation, a rare gem of nature writing that transforms the act of walking into a profound exploration of beauty, mindful observation, and healing. Initially hidden in obscurity, it has since been rightly celebrated as one of Britain's finest works ever written about nature and landscape. Shepherd's poetic reflections on the Cairngorm mountains are a spellbinding reminder of the wonder that awaits when we slow down, immerse ourselves in the wild, and simply observe.
As autumn’s vibrant colours fade into winter’s quieter tones, nature signals a pause, inviting us to slow down. Winter is a unique opportunity to reconnect with managing stress, find rest, and reconnect. The air grows cold, days shorten, and a blanket of frost covers the earth, asking us to step back, breathe, and embrace the gift of a slower season.
Holidays should be relaxing, but if your nervous system is stuck in fight or flight mode from work stress, finding calm can be tough. Transitioning from a high-pressure environment to relaxation requires intention and practice.
Anxiety can make you feel like you're lost at sea, struggling to stay afloat amidst the constant turmoil of worry and fear. Solution-Focused Therapy presents a beacon of hope through its optimistic and forward-thinking approach to anxiety management.
In the midst of our bustling daily routines, finding a moment to reflect on our achievements and journey can be a profound catalyst for cultivating positivity. This introspective practice not only shapes self-confidence and determination but also lays the foundation for overall satisfaction in life. Join me in learning the fundamental steps for nurturing a positive mindset while reflecting on our journey and accomplishments.
Stress - Why Giving Yourself a Break Will Heal You Stress is a normal part of life. However, when the stress response is triggered repeatedly, it can cause problems to your body. Aside from physical complications, psychological turmoil can damage your overall mental health. Taking a break from any stressful situations, whether from work or [...]
Coping Strategies for Stress According to the Mental Health Foundation, the UK is a 'stressed nation'. 74% of the UK felt 'overwhelmed or unable to cope' at some point in the past year. The good news is, that there is help out there, and we can learn ways to manage stress, cope better, and [...]
Promote mindfulness in the workplace According to recent figures, 526,000 workers suffered from work-related stress, depression or anxiety (new or long-standing) in 2016/17, and 12.5 million working days were lost due to work-related stress, depression or anxiety in 2016/17. Stress and anxiety seem to come hand-in-hand with working life these days, but that shouldn’t have to be the [...]