Mind

Authenticity is an ancient word that has undergone a modern do-over in the 21st century. This is the nature of language; it morphs and changes. What does authenticity mean in its more contemporary mode? Is it a fad, or does it have staying power? Let’s get real with what it means to be authentic.

As mindfulness is defined as non-judgmental awareness of the present moment, and goal setting represents future-focused attainment, I always viewed them as incompatible. It wasn’t until I read some of Dr Alan Wallace’s research that I was able to reconcile the two. Alan is an author and western expert on Tibetan Buddhism and teaches that there is great value in wholesome goals and desires. That is, goals and desires that are conducive to positive mental health and overall wellbeing.

We chat with iKOU founder Naomi Whitfeld about the life-changing power of wellness rituals.

“Every day, I’m reminded my favourite mug doesn’t belong to me ” One reader reveals why a simple blue mug reminds her of her brother.

Current research shows that writing about yourself in a positive sense is linked to better emotional and physical health. So what’s stopping you? It’s time to find the courage to put pen to paper and write your memoir.

The second decade of the 21st century has been the era of the jab. Arguably the most commonly used word during this time has, sadly, been “vaccination”. While to jab or not to jab has caused so much controversy and division, one thing we all desire is to be immune to the insidious COVID virus that caught the world by surprise. But while we acknowledge that we can choose to get shots to ward off diseases, is there a shot that can give us immunity from sadness and stress?

Have you ever caught your thoughts drifting elsewhere when exercising? Learn how to find mindfulness in your muscle movements which, in turn, will help you to feel motivation and an appreciation of your body.

Once a pastime of yore, knitting made a resurgence during the peak of the pandemic, and research shows this inexpensive hobby could be the key to mastering mindfulness and better mental health.

What gets you out of bed each morning and propels you forward? Do you want to find more meaning in what you do? Discovering and living in alignment with your personal ikigai is a way to harness the Japanese secret to a meaningful, long and joy-filled life.

From the benefits of pets, meditation and laughter, we look at some interesting slices of life which may just help your mind and overall health!

Disappointment is part of being alive and by its nature disappointment is not a pleasure, but if you approach it in the right way it can be a useful part of your journey.

Money archetypes help us to better understand our relationship with money. They will help us to become more aware of our habitual money behaviours, and with this awareness we can maximise our positive habits and find ways to balance and minimise our unhealthier ones.