Written by Remington Steele, Intuitive Breath Practitioner, Emotional Wellness Coach & Philanthropist Remington Steele is an Intuitive Breath Practitioner, Emotional Wellness Coach, and the visionary founder of Breathe With Rem and We Are The Village – Teen Moms. A philanthropist and author of Breathe With Me, Remington’s work is rooted in healing, empowerment, and generational transformation. The world is loud, and in that noise, we forget how to hear ourselves. Meditation, yoga, and retreats are not escapes, they are returns, doorways back to the wisdom of the body and the rhythm of the soul. When you step into sacred space, the air feels different, the noise of the world fades, and the whisper of your breath becomes your teacher. I have watched people unravel pain through stillness, reclaim joy through movement, and meet themselves again through the breath. These practices are not trends, they are ancient truths waiting to be remembered. As a teacher and retreat facilitator, I don’t just lead sessions, I create experiences that awaken, soften, and restore. The journey begins when you finally choose to stop running and listen to what peace has been trying to say all along. The physical health of the world The physical health of the world is in a quiet crisis. We live in constant motion, working, scrolling, rushing, while our bodies beg for the pause we refuse to give them. Studies show that chronic stress, poor sleep, and lack of mindful movement are leading contributors to heart disease, anxiety, obesity, and autoimmune disorders. Our nervous systems are overworked, our posture collapsing under invisible weight, and our breath, our most vital life force, becomes shallow from years of survival mode. The body was designed to move with rhythm, rest with intention, and heal with stillness, yet we’ve replaced these natural cycles with caffeine, chaos, and convenience. Every day we delay rest, we trade vitality for productivity and health for hustle. The time to change isn’t tomorrow, it’s now, because the body cannot whisper forever before it begins to scream.   Mental health is not taken as seriously as it should Mental health is not taken as seriously as it should be, yet it is the foundation upon which everything else stands. We live in a culture that celebrates exhaustion, disguises pain as strength, and confuses distraction with peace. Anxiety, depression, and burnout have become normalized, silently shaping our homes, workplaces, and even our children’s futures. The mind, when neglected, turns against itself, replaying fears, magnifying stress, and disconnecting us from our own joy. Studies reveal that more than 280 million people worldwide experience depression, yet many suffer in silence, afraid to appear weak or ungrateful. True health cannot exist when the mind is in turmoil, the body follows the mind’s lead. We must learn to treat mental care not as a luxury, but as a necessity, something as essential as food, water, and breath. Meditation, yoga, and intentional retreats are not indulgences, they are medicine for the modern mind. They remind us that stillness is strength and that tending to our inner world is the first act of healing the outer one. Until we honor mental health with the same urgency as physical wellness, we will continue to live half alive, mistaking survival for living.   Retreats address both in one breath Retreats offer hope, a sacred pause where the mind and body can finally breathe together again. In one space, they address both mental and physical health, reminding us that healing is not separate but symbiotic. Through guided movement, mindful rest, and deep connection, retreats allow the nervous system to reset and the body to remember its natural rhythm. The quiet moments become medicine, and the shared ones become mirrors of our own resilience. Away from screens and schedules, people rediscover what it means to truly feel alive. Each breath, each stretch, each still moment becomes a bridge between chaos and calm, pain and peace. In the rhythm of retreat, we learn that wholeness was never lost, it was simply waiting for us to slow down and return.   Meditation for better mental health Meditation is one of the most effective tools for improving mental health because it teaches the mind how to rest and reset. In a world that constantly demands our attention, meditation creates a quiet space to observe thoughts instead of being controlled by them. Research shows that regular meditation reduces anxiety, lowers cortisol levels, and strengthens the brain regions responsible for focus and emotional regulation. It helps calm the nervous system, allowing the body to shift from stress to balance, from reaction to awareness. With consistent practice, meditation rewires old patterns of fear and overthinking, replacing them with clarity, calm, and resilience. It gives the mind permission to slow down and the heart permission to open. Through breath and presence, meditation becomes more than a practice, it becomes a way of living with peace at the center. Yoga helps stretch and strengthen lung capacity Yoga is a powerful practice for expanding and strengthening lung capacity, connecting breath and movement into one harmonious flow. Each pose invites deeper inhalations and longer exhalations, training the lungs to work more efficiently and increasing oxygen flow throughout the body. Practices like pranayama (breath control) and heart-opening postures gently stretch the intercostal muscles between the ribs, creating more space for the lungs to expand. Over time, this not only enhances respiratory function but also improves endurance, posture, and stress resilience. Scientific studies have shown that consistent yoga practice can increase vital lung capacity, reduce symptoms of asthma, and improve overall breathing efficiency. The beauty of yoga lies in its dual power, it strengthens the body while calming the mind. With every mindful breath and intentional stretch, yoga teaches us to breathe fully, live fully, and move through life with grace and strength.   8 benefits of meditation, yoga, and retreats improve mental and physical health The harmony of meditation, yoga, and retreats offers profound benefits that reach far beyond the surface. Together, they nurture both the mind and body, creating balance where stress once lived and clarity where chaos once ruled. These practices work in unison to restore energy, strengthen emotional resilience, and awaken a deeper sense of purpose. The following eight benefits reveal how intentional stillness and mindful movement can transform your health and your life.   1. It lowers blood pressure Meditation, yoga, and retreats naturally help lower blood pressure by calming the nervous system and reducing stress hormones in the body. Through deep breathing and mindful movement, the heart rate slows, blood vessels relax, and circulation improves. Regular practice encourages balance between the mind and body, allowing the cardiovascular system to function more efficiently. Over time, these peaceful habits can reduce hypertension, improve heart health, and create a lasting sense of inner calm. 2. It gives better clarity and concentration Meditation, yoga, and retreats train the mind to focus and quiet distractions, leading to greater clarity and concentration. By practicing presence, you learn to direct your attention intentionally rather than reactively. The stillness cultivated through these practices strengthens the brain’s ability to process information and make clear decisions. As mental fog lifts, creativity flows more freely, and everyday tasks become easier to manage with calm precision.   3. You get better sleep Better sleep is one of the most immediate and exciting benefits of meditation, yoga, and retreats! As the mind unwinds and the body releases built-up tension, the nervous system naturally shifts into deep relaxation. Breathwork and gentle movement prepare the body for rest, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Over time, this consistent restoration leads to waking up refreshed, recharged, and ready to meet the day with calm energy. It’s not just about more sleep, it’s about better, more peaceful sleep that truly restores you from the inside out.   4. Digestive Health Improves Meditation, yoga, and retreats play a powerful role in improving digestive health by reducing stress, the root cause of many gut issues. When the body relaxes, digestion naturally improves as blood flow returns to the stomach and intestines. Gentle yoga poses like twists and forward folds help stimulate digestion and support the body’s natural detoxification process. Mindful breathing and meditation also balance the gut-brain connection, easing bloating, tension, and discomfort. Over time, these practices create harmony in the digestive system, allowing the body to absorb nourishment more efficiently and feel lighter from within.   5. Better mood and outlook on life Meditation, yoga, and retreats uplift mood and transform the way we see life. By calming the mind and balancing hormones like serotonin and dopamine, these practices help release stress and invite joy. Movement clears stagnant energy from the body, while meditation teaches emotional awareness and acceptance. Over time, you begin to respond to life with grace instead of reaction, finding peace in places where chaos once lived. The result is a brighter outlook, a lighter spirit, and a deeper sense of gratitude for simply being alive. 6. It can increase lung capacity Meditation, yoga, and retreats work together to expand and strengthen lung capacity through intentional breathing and mindful movement. Deep, controlled breaths train the diaphragm and intercostal muscles to function more efficiently, allowing more oxygen to flow through the body. This not only enhances stamina and energy but also supports heart health and mental clarity. As the breath deepens, the body learns to relax more fully, reducing tension and promoting healing. With each practice, you discover that breath is both your power and your peace, a bridge between vitality and calm.   7. Cultivates a deeper connection to self and others Meditation, yoga, and retreats cultivate mindfulness, a deep awareness that reconnects you to yourself and to others. Through intentional breath and presence, you begin to notice your thoughts, emotions, and needs with compassion rather than judgment. This mindfulness creates space for self-understanding and emotional balance, which naturally deepens empathy and connection with others. When you learn to be fully present within, you show up more authentically in every relationship around you. In this mindful harmony, the heart opens, and connection becomes not just something you do but something you are.   8. Creates a deeper faith or spiritual connection Meditation, yoga, and retreats open the doorway to deeper faith and spiritual connection. By quieting the noise of the outside world, you create space to hear the still, guiding voice within. Breath by breath, these practices awaken a sense of divine presence that transcends words and beliefs. Whether through prayer, meditation, or mindful movement, the spirit begins to feel seen, supported, and renewed. In stillness, you remember you were never separate from peace, you were simply learning how to return to it.   How I use meditation and yoga in my retreats In my retreats, I use meditation and yoga as mirrors, tools that help people see themselves clearly through the language of their own breath. Each practice is designed to quiet the mind and open the body so participants can reconnect with the truth that already lives within them. Through guided breathwork, mindful movement, and moments of still reflection, I help others release tension and rediscover balance. My approach blends science, spirit, and soul, allowing each person to experience transformation from the inside out. When you learn to see yourself through your breath, healing becomes not just possible, it becomes inevitable.   Being with yourself is key Being with yourself is key because true healing and clarity can only begin when you stop running from your own presence. In stillness, you meet the parts of yourself that have been waiting to be heard, seen, and understood. It’s in solitude that you learn what you truly feel, what you truly need, and who you truly are. When you can sit with your thoughts without judgment and your emotions without fear, you begin to build self-trust, the foundation of inner peace. Constant distraction keeps us disconnected, but being with yourself restores alignment between mind, body, and spirit. This practice isn’t about isolation, it’s about intimacy with your truth, your breath, and your becoming. The more time you spend with yourself, the stronger and freer you become.   Upcoming retreats Your next chapter of healing begins here. Join me for Upcoming Retreats designed to help you return home to yourself through stillness, movement, and breath. From A Journey Into Yourself: The Yolk of Yoga to the Breathe With e-Book Retreat, each experience is crafted to awaken awareness, deepen love, and restore balance from within. Our Self-Love and Forgiveness retreats invite you to release what no longer serves you and step boldly into peace, power, and purpose. These are not just getaways, they are sacred gatherings where transformation unfolds naturally, one breath at a time. I invite you to be part of this journey and experience what it means to truly breathe, feel, and live again. Visit here to explore dates and register for your journey inward awaits. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Remington Steele Remington Steele, Intuitive Breath Practitioner, Emotional Wellness Coach & Philanthropist Remington Steele is an Intuitive Breath Practitioner, Emotional Wellness Coach, and the visionary founder of Breathe With Rem and We Are The Village – Teen Moms. A philanthropist and author of Breathe With Me, Remington’s work is rooted in healing, empowerment, and generational transformation. As a former teen mother herself, she has turned her personal journey into a mission to guide others through intentional breathing, holistic wellness, and community-centered care.

Algeria – SwiftCart and SwiftSend, two global technology platforms founded and implemented by entrepreneur Rachid Abdelkrim, today announced their official global launch, marking a major milestone in the evolution of on-demand delivery and peer-to-peer logistics services across international markets. Both platforms are now live and operating globally, with rapid growth driven by increasing demand for flexible, cost-effective, and technology-driven delivery solutions. A dual-platform vision transforming global delivery After years of persistence, development, and overcoming regulatory and implementation challenges, Rachid Abdelkrim has successfully launched two complementary global platforms, each addressing a different but critical need in modern logistics. SwiftCart redefines traditional on-demand delivery. SwiftSend introduces a peer-to-peer parcel and item delivery model powered by travelers and independent vehicle owners. Together, the platforms form a scalable global ecosystem designed to make delivery faster, more accessible, and more efficient worldwide. SwiftCart: A new model for on-demand delivery SwiftCart is an innovative on-demand delivery platform launched in the United States and Europe, with expansion underway in every country that supports contactless payment systems. Founded by Abdelkrim in the UK in 2020, SwiftCart was initially blocked from implementation due to regulatory and structural challenges. During this period, aspects of the original concept were later adopted by public transport authorities, including Île-de-France Mobilités, without formal authorization. Despite these setbacks, Abdelkrim rebuilt the platform independently using a lean startup approach. SwiftCart officially launched in the United States on January 23, 2026, followed by a European rollout beginning January 24, 2026. Early results show strong traction, with rapid customer adoption, increasing order volumes, and growing revenue. The SwiftCart platform connects customers directly with independent delivery drivers through a dedicated mobile app. When a customer places an order, a nearby SwiftCart driver: Travels to the selected shop or restaurant Places the order in person Pays using the SwiftCart app via contactless payment Collects the items Delivers them directly to the customer This model allows customers to order from any local retailer or restaurant, not just pre-listed partners, providing unmatched flexibility, transparency, and speed. SwiftSend: Peer-to-peer parcel and item delivery powered by travelers and vehicle owners SwiftSend is a global peer-to-peer logistics platform that enables customers to send parcels and items using travelers and drivers who are already heading to the same destination. In addition to travelers, SwiftSend allows individuals with large vehicles, vans, and cargo-capable cars to transport items along routes they are already traveling. This makes SwiftSend particularly effective for large, bulky, or heavy items, creating mutual benefits: Senders gain access to faster and more affordable delivery options, including for large items Drivers and van owners can earn income by utilizing unused vehicle capacity By relying on existing journeys rather than additional delivery fleets, SwiftSend improves efficiency while reducing environmental impact. After years of development and regulatory challenges, SwiftSend is now officially launched globally and expanding rapidly. The platform provides a trusted environment where users can match shipments with verified travelers and vehicle owners, improving delivery speed and accessibility worldwide. Founder’s vision, operational challenges, and ongoing search for support “I spent years fighting to bring these ideas to life,” said Rachid Abdelkrim, Founder of SwiftCart and SwiftSend. “Some ideas can’t always be protected, and implementation often takes longer than expected. But with discipline and execution, it’s possible to build global platforms from very limited resources.” Using less than $1,000 in initial capital, Abdelkrim successfully relaunched SwiftCart and later implemented SwiftSend, applying lessons learned from navigating large-scale mobility systems, logistics operations, and regulatory environments. Currently, Abdelkrim is working entirely independently, managing product development, operations, compliance, and platform oversight alone. As both platforms grow, he urgently needs to: Launch the SwiftCart and SwiftSend applications on the Google Play Store as soon as possible Monitor platform operations and service performance more quickly and effectively Build the right professional team to manage the businesses in a structured, scalable, and professional manner While awaiting formal responses from Transport for London (TfL) and Île-de-France Mobilités, Abdelkrim is also seeking meaningful engagement from organizations, institutions, and individuals who publicly claim to support startups and entrepreneurship. “Many entities say they help founders launch businesses,” Abdelkrim said. “I am still waiting for clear answers, practical support, and real accountability from those who promote innovation but fail to assist entrepreneurs when it truly matters.” Planned book project In parallel with building SwiftCart and SwiftSend, Rachid Abdelkrim is planning to write a book documenting his entrepreneurial journey and experiences. The book is intended to be based strictly on reports, documentation, and verified evidence, as Abdelkrim believes the public deserves to understand the full reality behind the challenges faced by independent founders. At this stage, he has not disclosed the subject or scope of the book, explaining that he will only proceed once sufficient evidence has been gathered and reviewed. “The truth matters,” Abdelkrim said. “But it must be told responsibly and supported by facts.” Global expansion and growth Both SwiftCart and SwiftSend are experiencing rapid global growth, with expansion underway across multiple regions. The platforms are designed to scale efficiently across borders while adapting to local regulations and payment systems. The long-term vision is to establish a worldwide delivery and logistics ecosystem that simplifies shopping, parcel sending, and large-item transport – while maintaining transparency, affordability, and operational efficiency for users everywhere. About SwiftCart SwiftCart is a global on-demand delivery platform connecting customers, drivers, and retailers through dedicated applications. The platform enables fast, flexible, and transparent delivery from local businesses using a customer-first operational model. About SwiftSend SwiftSend is a global peer-to-peer parcel and item delivery platform connecting senders with travelers and vehicle owners heading to the same destination. By leveraging existing travel routes and unused vehicle capacity, SwiftSend reduces costs, improves delivery speed, and creates earning opportunities worldwide. Media contact Rachid Abdelkrim Founder – SwiftCart & SwiftSend

Written by Justin Loughlin, Master Life Coach As a Master Life Coach and creator of The Expansion Code™, Justin Loughlin helps high achievers worldwide clear blocks, regulate their nervous system, and create sustainable success through proven science-meets-soul coaching. Burnout doesn’t start in your calendar, it starts in your nervous system. Most high achievers think exhaustion is the cost of success, but it’s usually the symptom of an overactive survival response. When your subconscious mind is wired to equate achievement with safety, you’ll keep pushing even when your body and emotions are asking you to stop. You’re not addicted to stress, you’re addicted to the familiarity of striving. Understanding this pattern is the first step to breaking it. The burnout illusion On the surface, burnout looks like exhaustion, low motivation, and mental fog. But underneath, it’s a complex dance between belief systems, emotional conditioning, and biology.   Many high performers learned early in life that love or validation came through doing, not being. So success becomes survival. Rest feels dangerous because it triggers old guilt or fear of losing worth.   In NLP terms, this is an identity-level conflict: your conscious mind says, “I need balance,” but your subconscious believes, “If I slow down, I’ll fall behind.”   No amount of time off can fix that, not until the programming underneath changes. The emotional engine of overdrive Every emotion carries a physiological signature. When stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline dominate your system for too long, your body forgets how to access calm. That’s when emotional regulation collapses, you stop feeling, you start performing.   Your nervous system shifts from growth mode to survival mode. Decisions become reactive. Sleep suffers. Creativity fades. And because high achievers are often masters of self-control, they miss the early warning signs until their body forces the shutdown.   Burnout isn’t weakness. It’s your subconscious saying, “We can’t run this level of stress anymore.” The reprogramming process Healing burnout isn’t about doing less. It’s about doing things differently from a regulated, resourced state instead of a reactive one.   Here’s where NLP and The Expansion Code™ intersect. Through NLP reframing and subconscious clearing, we begin to question the old meanings attached to work, success, and rest. For example, if the subconscious associates rest with laziness, NLP techniques like belief reimprinting help reframe rest as recovery, a necessary part of performance. If visibility feels unsafe, somatic anchoring helps the nervous system associate being seen with calm instead of threat.   Each reframe teaches the subconscious that safety no longer depends on overachievement.   As your internal definition of safety changes, the body follows. Breathing deepens, tension releases, and creativity returns. You stop hustling for permission to rest and start creating from genuine clarity. The role of awareness and regulation Awareness is power, but awareness without regulation can still feel overwhelming. That’s why emotional regulation is essential for lasting change.   Grounding practices like slow exhalation, bilateral movement, and mindful observation restore balance to the nervous system. Once you’re calm, NLP strategies can rewire thought patterns more effectively because the subconscious learns best in safety, not stress.   The mind and body communicate in feedback loops. When one shifts, the other adapts. So by consciously regulating your state, you open the door for subconscious healing.   From overdrive to expansion The goal isn’t to become less driven. It’s to become differently driven, motivated by purpose, not pressure.   When you release the subconscious association between self-worth and productivity, success no longer feels like survival. You can rest without guilt, work with focus, and lead with presence.   That’s the reprogramming process behind The Expansion Code™, teaching the mind and body to work in harmony, not in opposition.   Because true achievement isn’t about burning brighter. It’s about sustaining your light. Follow me on Facebook ,   Instagram , LinkedIn , and visit my website  for more info! Read more from Justin Loughlin Justin Loughlin, Master Life Coach Justin Loughlin is the creator of The Expansion Code™, a 3-step coaching framework designed to help high achievers worldwide clear subconscious blocks and expand into their next-level identity. Certified in NLP, Hypnotherapy, EMDR techniques, and trauma-informed coaching, he blends science and soul to deliver real, lasting change. His mission is to empower ambitious individuals to achieve extraordinary success without burnout.

Written by Sicadia-Paige, Vibroacoustic Therapist and Myofunctional Therapist Sicadia-Paige is the founder of True You Collective, Colorado’s dedicated Nervous System Reboot™ Center, where science, frequency, and light-based therapies come together to help clients break free from chronic stress, overwhelm, and nervous system dysregulation. I grew up learning how to survive, not how to regulate. As a child navigating divorce, I learned early how to read rooms, manage emotions that weren’t mine, and stay "strong." I still remember the flicker of the TV in the background while adults argued off-screen. As a teen, that vigilance turned inward. Bullying, body image struggles, and the quiet pressure to be acceptable, likable, and worthy layered themselves into my nervous system long before I had language for what was happening. The pressure never really stopped. It just changed shape. Like so many people, I carried that unspoken tension into adulthood, into relationships, into my body, into how I showed up for others. And while I’ve spent years studying healing, trauma, the nervous system, and somatic regulation, I’ll say this plainly: You can be deeply knowledgeable and still feel like you fall short in your personal life. That doesn’t make you a failure. It makes you human. Stress doesn’t start in adulthood, it accumulates there We often talk about stress as if it begins with adult responsibilities: work, parenting, finances. But the nervous system keeps a much longer record. Childhood experiences like divorce, bullying, social pressure, feeling unseen or unsafe shape how the nervous system learns to respond to the world. Research shows that early life stress can influence stress reactivity, emotional regulation, and even pain perception later in life. Imagine a child flinching at the sound of a door slam, a response rooted in memories of playground teasing or tense household disputes. These early imprints can carry forward, influencing how stress is processed well into adulthood. When the body learns early that it must brace, adapt, or perform to stay safe, it doesn’t simply “forget” that lesson. It carries it forward. The nervous system is where the story lives The nervous system doesn’t care how successful we are, how educated we become, or how much healing language we know. It responds to felt safety. Felt safety can manifest through simple bodily signals, like when your shoulders naturally relax, or when your breath becomes longer and deeper. These subtle shifts act as cues that our nervous system recognizes and experiences a sense of safety. When that safety is missing, it can manifest in what I call the 'Tension, Turbulence, Tiredness' triad: Tension: Chronic tension or pain, a feeling of the body bracing itself for impact. Turbulence: Anxiety or emotional overwhelm, along with sensory sensitivity due to a nervous system always on high alert. Tiredness: Difficulty resting and a constant sense of 'doing' without ever feeling truly settled. This is where nervous system-based, non-pharmacological therapies offer something profoundly different, not another thing to fix but a way to support the body in releasing what it has been holding for years. In contrast to traditional talk therapy, which focuses on verbalizing and analyzing issues, vibroacoustic therapy offers a unique doorway into regulation through vibrations that speak directly to the body when words fall short. Vibroacoustic therapy: Supporting regulation without words Vibroacoustic therapy (VAT) uses low-frequency sound delivered through the body as vibration. Research suggests it can influence the nervous system in ways that support relaxation, emotional regulation, and pain relief. A scoping review of vibroacoustic therapy found evidence of reduced pain and increased relaxation  across multiple populations, including those with chronic stress and pain conditions. Low-frequency vibration has been shown to increase parasympathetic nervous system activity , the branch associated with rest, digestion, and repair. In pediatric populations, pilot studies involving autistic children observed improvements in attention, engagement, and emotional regulation  following vibroacoustic sessions. What makes vibroacoustics especially powerful for both adults and children is its ability to invite pure sensation and rest. It meets the body where it is and allows it to experience healing without the need for talking, analyzing, or performing. And sometimes, that’s exactly what healing needs. Red and near-infrared light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM), supports mitochondrial function, the energy centers of our cells. Just like recharging a battery, when our cells produce more energy, it fuels everyday activities and enhances vitality. Imagine your child sprinting across the soccer field with an extra boost of natural energy, that's the potential impact of healthy mitochondrial function. This cellular-level support can be a subtle yet powerful way to improve overall well-being and keep up with the demands of a busy life. Research shows PBM may: Reduce inflammation Support tissue repair Modulate pain pathways Improve cellular energy production. A systematic review published through NIH resources highlights PBM’s role in reducing pain and improving function  across a variety of conditions. Emerging research also explores PBM’s potential effects on neuroinflammation and neural connectivity , particularly relevant for stress-impacted nervous systems. For children, red light offers a gentle yet supportive way to nourish the nervous system without overstimulation or cognitive demand. Sessions typically last about 10 to 20 minutes, with light intensity carefully adjusted to ensure safety and comfort. This helps caregivers gauge the appropriate dosage and fits seamlessly into children's daily routines. What I see in the children who come to the collective Children who come into the space don’t arrive labeled as needing to be 'fixed'. They come richly attuned to their surroundings yet often overloaded. I see kids who: They are highly sensitive and deeply intuitive. Carry adult-level stress in small bodies. Struggle to slow down without external input. Don’t yet know how to feel safe in stillness. And then I watch what happens when their nervous systems are supported. They soften. They breathe differently. They settle into themselves. Not because someone told them to, but because their bodies finally felt safe enough to do so. Experts still heal in real time One of the most important things I want to say, especially to parents, healers, and caregivers, is this: You don't have to be perfectly regulated to offer regulation. You don’t have to have it all figured out to create safety. I wasn't taught what I now teach my children. I learned it through my own unraveling. One of my personal 10-second regulation tools when meeting edges in life is to pause, take a deep breath in through the nose for four seconds, hold it for a moment, and then exhale slowly through the mouth. This simple act helps ground me, reminding me that even imperfect, I am resourced. And even now, I still meet edge in relationships, in parenting, in life. The difference is that I now understand what’s happening in my nervous system, and I have tools to return to myself. That is the gift. A different legacy When we support children’s nervous systems early, we interrupt cycles that have been running quietly for generations. We teach them: That their bodies are wise That rest is allowed. That emotions are information, not problems. That safety begins inside. This isn't about creating perfect childhoods. It's about creating resilient humans. And maybe just maybe it's also how we begin to heal the parts of ourselves that never had that support. Will you join me in practicing this today? Let's embrace this journey together and cultivate a legacy of resilience and healing for the coming generations. For more information about what we do at True You Collective in Arvada, Colorado, please follow me on  Instagram ,  LinkedIn , and visit my  website  for more info! Read more from Sicadia-Paige Sicadia-Paige, Vibroacoustic Therapist and Myofunctional Therapist Founder of True You Collective in Arvada, Colorado, Sicadia-Paige is a Certified Vibroacoustic Therapist, Certified Myofunctional Therapist, Nervous System Reboot™ Guide, and End-of-Life Doula. She specializes in cutting-edge, frequency-based therapies designed to calm the nervous system, ease pain and inflammation, and unlock the body’s natural healing intelligence. Book now: https://trueyoucollective.com/booking/discovery-call-booking-calendar/ https://trueyoucollective.com/booking/

Written by Dr. Kristine Medyanik, Dynamic Educator, Facilitator, and Leadership Strategist Dr. Kristine Medyanik is a dynamic leadership development facilitator in classrooms, corporate environments, and conferences. She uses humor and stories to make concepts come to life and leaves audiences with tangible tools to positively impact their own leadership practice, both professionally and personally. Why self-awareness, curiosity, and belief in others make feedback one of your most powerful leadership tools. Let’s be honest: giving feedback can be awkward. It’s one of those leadership moments where our palms sweat, our words tangle, and we start second-guessing whether to say anything at all. But feedback done well is one of the most powerful tools a leader has to build trust, clarity, and growth within a team. In a recent leadership session, our group dove into the art (and science) of feedback through the lens of emotional intelligence. We explored what makes it work, what makes it flop, and how leaders can reframe feedback as an act of belief, not criticism. Why emotional intelligence matters more than ever Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the foundation of effective leadership. It’s the ability to stay self-aware, manage emotions, and respond intentionally even when conversations get tough. When stress or fatigue is high, it’s easy to react impulsively or retreat entirely. But great leaders pause, assess, and choose words that move the conversation and the person forward. As one participant shared, “It’s about being aware of what you’re communicating before you even open your mouth.”That kind of awareness doesn’t just protect relationships, it strengthens them. Two feedback frameworks every leader should know We introduced two simple but game-changing tools to make feedback feel less like confrontation and more like collaboration: 1. The THINK framework Before you speak, ask yourself: Is it True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, and Kind? If your message doesn’t check most of those boxes, it’s worth rethinking how (or whether) to deliver it. 2. The four-part feedback framework This model keeps your feedback clear and forward-focused: Observation: What did you notice? Impact: How did it affect others or the work? Intention: What do you believe their intent was? Forward focus: What can be done differently next time? Used together, these frameworks bring clarity and empathy into every feedback conversation. Feedback shouldn’t be a surprise attack One of the biggest takeaways from our discussion? Preparation is everything. Half of people find feedback conversations stressful, and that’s just on a good day. Sending a vague “Can we talk?” message can send anxiety through the roof. Instead, leaders should be transparent about the purpose of the conversation and even ask new team members how they prefer to receive feedback during onboarding. And remember, feedback shouldn’t just show up when something goes wrong. Share it when things go right, too. That’s how you create transformational feedback cycles where growth becomes a normal part of your culture, not a crisis response. Dealing with negativity and “high resistors” Every team has them: the skeptics, the chronic eye-rollers, the ones who quietly (or not-so-quietly) resist change. Here’s the thing: ignoring negativity doesn’t make it go away. In fact, it’s the fastest way to lose your best people. Address it early, privately, and with curiosity. Ask questions like, “I’m curious what your intended outcome was here?” or “Help me understand what’s feeling frustrating for you.” Sometimes, side conversations before a meeting can prevent resistance from derailing the group. A little empathy upfront can go a long way toward maintaining psychological safety for everyone else. Your belief in others matters most At the heart of every feedback conversation lies one crucial question: Do you believe the person in front of you can change? If the answer is yes, that belief will show up in your tone, your body language, and your patience. If not, no framework in the world will save the conversation. Leaders who believe in their people create space for transformation. They see potential where others see problems. And that mindset alone can change everything. The leader’s toolkit: Practice, curiosity, and consistency To wrap up, here are some takeaways you can put into practice right away: Use the THINK and Four-Part Feedback frameworks in your next feedback conversation. Ask each team member how they prefer to receive feedback. Address negativity with curiosity, not confrontation. Celebrate wins as often as you correct mistakes. Keep your own ego in check and model the emotional intelligence you want to see in others. And if you want to dig deeper, add Leadership and Self-Deception and No Ego to your reading list. Both are incredible resources for leaders ready to level up their self-awareness and influence. Final thought Feedback isn’t about pointing out flaws, it’s about unlocking potential. When leaders approach these conversations with empathy, clarity, and belief, feedback becomes something people look forward to, not fear. Because when feedback is rooted in emotional intelligence, it stops being personal and starts being powerful. Need this session for your team? Reach out to schedule, order your UnCourse, or join the Fellowship. This conversation was part of The Evolving Leader Fellowship’s October topic: Feedback and Emotional Intelligence. If you’re an organizational leader looking to strengthen your team’s culture and communication, The Evolving Leader Fellowship brings this kind of transformative leadership development directly to your organization. Learn how your team can experience sessions like this by visiting  here  or reaching out to discuss bringing a custom leadership program to your workplace, or select one of the two workbooks today. Find them under “More programs” then “UnCourses” on the above website. Follow me on Facebook , LinkedIn , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Dr. Kristine Medyanik Dr. Kristine Medyanik, Dynamic Educator, Facilitator, and Leadership Strategist Dr. Kristine Medyanik is a dynamic leadership development facilitator in classrooms, corporate environments, and conferences. She uses humor and stories to make concepts come to life and leaves audiences with tangible tools to positively impact their own leadership practice, both professionally and personally.

Written by Tara Swann, Emotional Empowerment Coach & Author Tara Swann is an Emotional Empowerment & Embodiment Coach and three-time Author who guides women to alchemise emotional patterns, reclaim their inner power, and manifest a life that reflects their deepest truth. Have you ever looked back at a decision you made and thought, “I knew I should have chosen the other option?” Something within you tugged you toward the other choice, like a string attached to your heart, but your mind entered the scenario and told you that the one you chose made more logical sense. What weakens intuition Every time you listen to your mind over that pull within you, you’re disconnecting from the part of you that is guiding you, your higher self. Each time you choose the more logical option, and then you beat yourself up for making the wrong choice, you’re losing trust in yourself. Then the next time this subtle inner tug appears, you don’t fully trust it. Sometimes the tug doesn’t make sense. We are taught to follow the logical option, to stay in our minds, and to think things through properly. Still, maybe this advice comes from a patriarchal society, and a very masculine way of living, disconnected from feeling, emotional guidance, and intuition of the inner feminine. Maybe we need to lean into the mystery and say to ourselves, “This doesn’t make sense, but I feel like I should go here instead”, and see where it leads. I called into one of my favourite cafés recently while driving South for a night away, and I thought, “I don’t need or want anything, it would be better just to keep driving.” But something within me told me to stop, and this time it wasn’t coffee, so I trusted it. There I met a woman who recognised me from my books, and she ended up buying all three of my books. We connected, and now something tells me this won’t be the last time I see her. If you leaned into the mystery, what’s the worst that could happen? Fear vs. intuition Fear is often a trauma response that feels like intuition, but is actually your nervous system attempting to protect you from pain. Fear often appears when we are making decisions, big or small. We live in a busy world, which instills hyper-vigilance in your nervous system, teaches you to use your mind over your body, and, as a result, most of us live in a constant survival state, not to mention past pain that has left imprints on your nervous system. When it comes to discerning which thoughts are guided by fear and which are guided by intuition, we get stuck. We begin overthinking the worst, questioning whether it’s intuition, until it turns into anxiety. The difference is that one is driven by emotion stuck in the body, and the other is a knowing without explanation. Intuition isn’t here to replace logic, though, it’s here to lead it. When intuition speaks first, and the mind follows, decisions feel grounded rather than forced. The problem isn’t the mind, it’s when the mind takes control before the body has had a chance to be heard. Neutralising emotion Behind every fear is emotion. When you have a fear of rejection, for example, it may be charged by suppressed grief in the body. When you have a fear of judgment, it may stem from feelings of worthlessness. Neutralising emotions is the third Pillar of Emotional Empowerment. It is the process of neutralising the emotion behind fear, thereby neutralising the fear itself. Once the fear is neutralised, it softens, and you can more easily discern what truth is. Was it fear or intuition? To neutralise emotion, you first need to allow emotion. Whenever fear arises, can you pause instead of panic? In that pause, can you drop out of the mind and into the body? And in the body, can you feel where that emotional energy is located? Can you breathe into that sensation and allow yourself to be present with it? Lastly, will you allow yourself to cry, rage, scream, and let the emotion move you? When you can allow, with presence, love, and non-judgement, you can release the energy that is alive within you and neutralise the fear that is clouding your intuitive knowing. A deeper knowing Intuition comes from a place of deeper knowing. Intuition shows up in big, life-altering moments, but also in the micro moments, such as the pause before replying to a message or the subtle heaviness when you agree to something that sounds good but feels off. If you can catch that moment, before the mind takes over, intuition has space to be heard. For some, it appears as an impulse, a subtle instinctive pull. For others, it shows up as a clear yes or no, without logical reasoning. And sometimes people need the space to sit with it and feel into their bodies to know if something is genuinely the right call for them. Even if you don’t believe in intuition as something mystical, your body is still constantly responding, expanding toward what feels aligned and contracting around what doesn’t. Emotional guidance Emotional guidance is the fourth Pillar of Emotional Empowerment. This is the process of sitting with a decision and feeling into the body. With one choice in mind, ask yourself, “How does this feel for me?” Then, with the second choice in mind, ask again, “How does this feel for me?” This takes the mind out of it for a moment and allows your body the chance to speak to you. Usually, one feels truer than the other, and then you have your answer. Just try not to overthink it when it doesn’t seem like the smartest, most logical choice. Trust. However, a lot of us have so many suppressed emotions that sometimes one choice feels better because it feels less risky and therefore less scary. Sometimes, it will feel like the safer option to your nervous system, either because it’s familiar, or because you have a deeper emotional blockage and belief of “I am not good enough”, for example. Removing the blocks As I said, one choice will feel better to you, but if you know a choice feels better because it doesn’t feel as scary, go back to the neutralising emotion process. You can find a deeper explanation of this process in my book, Becoming Her, available on Amazon. Removing blocks begins when you allow energy to flow through the body. We are energetic beings. We have energy channels throughout the body, and when we experience challenging situations in our lives and don’t fully process those experiences through the body, emotional energy becomes stagnant, stored in our cells. This creates blockages in the body, restricting the natural flow of energy. The art of allowing is the most profound art you will ever embody. Allow what is alive in you to flow, be with it fully, allow it to vibrate through your entire body, feel its aliveness, even if it's uncomfortable. You’re human, discomfort is a part of life, and without discomfort, you wouldn’t know comfort. Without pain, you wouldn’t know pleasure. How alive will you let yourself feel in this lifetime? Emotion as medicine The emotional energy that is dying to flow through you is the exact medicine you need to disconnect from fear and connect to your intuition. It is the energy that drives your life. Suppressed shame drives fear of being seen. Suppressed grief drives surface-level connection, when you really crave depth. Suppressed anger drives a lack of boundaries and people-pleasing. Suppressed heartache drives insecurity in romantic relationships. When you finally allow yourself to be present with what is alive in you, moment by moment, you drop into deeper layers of yourself, letting go of what no longer serves you, to make way for a more profound connection to your truth, your higher self, and your intuitive power. Each time you ignore that inner pull, you abandon your truth. And each time you listen, even when it’s uncomfortable, you rebuild self-trust. Sometimes you follow your intuition, but the outcome of that isn’t what you expected. Can you trust those outcomes anyway, knowing that they’re a part of a bigger picture? Can you trust it’s always leading you in the right direction, no matter what? When you can trust yourself to be with discomfort, you can trust the natural direction of your life. Connecting to your intuition is almost a rebel act, a rewilding, a letting go of a system that feeds on your fear and controls you through your lack of self-trust. It’s a reconnection to your feminine (whether you’re a man or woman), and a clearing and rebalancing of the energy within you that ultimately creates your life. Where’s that string tugging you next? If deepening your connection to your body and intuition is something you’d love to explore, connect with me on Instagram or apply to work with me privately here . Visit my website  for more info! Read more from Tara Swann Tara Swann , Emotional Empowerment Coach & Author Tara Swann is an Emotional Empowerment Coach, Author, and Speaker known for helping women alchemise emotional patterns into personal power. She guides women into deeper confidence, clarity, and self-connection through her unique blend of emotional mastery, feminine embodiment, and manifestation work. Tara is the author of You Don’t Have Anxiety, Becoming Her, and The Ocean Is She, and is currently deepening her expertise through formal Tantra Practitioner training. Her mission is to help women remember who they are and consciously create lives that feel aligned, expansive, and unapologetically alive.

Written by Adam Skoda, Masculine Mindset Coach Adam Skoda is a full-time blogger, masculine mindset coach, and podcast host who helps men master discipline, confidence, and emotional control. Through writing and training programs, he teaches practical ways to build self-mastery, high-value habits, and personal power. Anger is one of the most misunderstood emotional states in modern self-development. It’s often framed as something to suppress, avoid, or “heal,” when in reality, anger is raw biological energy. When unmanaged, it destroys focus. When directed, it becomes one of the most powerful productivity tools available. So don’t misinterpret this as being toxic. It can be used the right way. The problem isn’t anger. The problem is a lack of containment. This article breaks down how to channel anger into productivity without burnout, self-sabotage, or emotional spillover using psychology, physiology, and disciplined execution. Why anger feels destructive (but isn’t) Anger evolved as a mobilization signal. It prepares the body for action by increasing alertness, narrowing attention, and elevating drive. The issue arises when anger has no outlet or is expressed reactively instead of strategically.   Most people oscillate between two extremes: Suppression (which leads to resentment, fatigue, and loss of motivation) Explosion (which leads to impulsive behavior and regret) Productivity lives in the middle ground: directed intensity. The biology behind anger and productivity Anger activates the sympathetic nervous system, the same system responsible for focus, drive, and physical readiness. Key physiological effects include: Increased adrenaline and noradrenaline (heightened alertness) Short-term elevation in testosterone (assertiveness and drive) Narrowed attentional bandwidth (task fixation)   When this state is paired with structure, it produces momentum. When paired with chaos, it produces damage. Anger isn’t meant to linger emotionally. It’s meant to be converted into output.   How to channel anger into productivity (step-by-step) 1. Treat anger as a signal, not a command Anger signals that something matters. Instead of reacting, pause and ask: What outcome does this energy want to move toward? Naming the objective immediately reduces emotional chaos. Don’t get too carried away, stay focused.   2. Convert emotional energy into physical output One of the fastest ways to metabolize anger is through intentional physical stress. When applied correctly, physical exertion acts as a pressure valve for emotional intensity. High-intensity training protocols can be especially effective for channeling anger into physical performance rather than mental rumination, allowing emotional energy to resolve through effort instead of expression.   For a deeper breakdown on this mechanism,   read this article  to train like a psycho for more. The key is intentionality, not excess.   3. Contain anger inside structured work blocks Anger becomes productive when it’s time-boxed. Set a defined work window (30-90 minutes) and assign the energy to a single task: Writing Problem-solving Training Execution-heavy work No multitasking. No emotional storytelling. Just output.   4. Use anger to eliminate friction, not create it Anger sharpens decision-making when directed toward removal: Cut distractions End indecision Simplify execution paths Productive anger subtracts. It doesn’t add noise.   5. End with recovery to lock the gains Anger is not a state to live in. After output, return the nervous system to baseline through: Slow breathing Walking Hydration Sleep Recovery is what turns intensity into sustainable productivity instead of burnout. Why this approach works long-term Productivity doesn’t come from emotional neutrality. It comes from emotional mastery. When anger is: Acknowledged (not denied) Contained (not indulged) Directed (not expressed) It becomes fuel instead of friction. Men who learn this don’t lose their edge, they refine it.   Frequently asked questions Is anger bad for productivity? No. Unmanaged anger is disruptive, but directed anger can significantly increase focus and drive. Can anger improve motivation? Yes, especially when paired with clear goals and structured action. How do you use anger without burning out? By limiting duration, assigning it to output, and prioritizing recovery afterward. Final thought: Anger is energy, direction is mastery Anger is not a flaw in human psychology, it is a biological activation system. It exists to mobilize focus, sharpen perception, and initiate movement when something meaningful is at stake. The reason anger so often leads to burnout, distraction, or self-sabotage is not that it is inherently destructive, but because most people are never taught how to contain and direct it.   When anger is suppressed, it turns inward and corrodes motivation. When it is expressed without structure, it turns outward and damages relationships, judgment, and long-term progress. Productivity emerges only when anger is treated as raw input, not an emotional narrative to be acted out. The difference between destructive anger and productive anger is intentional containment. Directed anger is assigned to a task, limited by time, and resolved through output. It is not indulged, dramatized, or carried forward unnecessarily. It is used and then released. This is why the most effective performers do not aim for emotional neutrality. They aim for emotional command. They recognize anger as a temporary state that can increase urgency, eliminate hesitation, and accelerate execution when paired with clear objectives, structured work blocks, and physical or cognitive outlets that metabolize intensity rather than amplify it. Productivity, at its highest level, is not about avoiding difficult emotions. It is about orchestrating them. Anger becomes useful when it is converted into effort, narrowed into focus, and followed by deliberate recovery that returns the nervous system to baseline.   This cycle activation, output, and recovery is what transforms emotional intensity into sustainable performance instead of exhaustion.   Mastering this process doesn’t make someone colder or less human. It makes them more self- directed. Anger stops running the system and becomes a tool within it. When emotional energy is disciplined, clarity replaces chaos. When direction replaces reaction, productivity follows naturally. Not because anger disappears but because it finally has a purpose. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram ,   LinkedIn ,  and visit my website  for more info! Read more from Adam Skoda Adam Skoda, Masculine Mindset Coach Adam Skoda is a fitness professional and author of 77 Ways to Develop a Masculine Mindset, helping men build confidence, self-discipline, and personal power. He is the founder of multiple training programs that blend psychology, fitness, and communication to create lasting transformation. With a background in high-performance coaching, Adam shares practical tools for emotional control and mental resilience. His podcast explores identity, status, and the modern masculine journey in relationships, discipline, and self-mastery.

Written by Vicci O'Reilly, Emotional Wellness Hypnotherapist Vicci O'Reilly is a trauma-informed hypnotherapist and emotional wellness mentor who helps highly sensitive women heal from survival patterns, reconnect with their intuition, and create a grounded, empowered life through subconscious reprogramming and spiritual healing. There is a particular kind of exhaustion that does not come from doing too much, but from being too much for everyone else. The exhaustion of monitoring tone. Of anticipating reactions. Of shaping yourself into something palatable, agreeable, safe. There is a particular kind of exhaustion that does not come from doing too much, but from being too much for everyone else. The exhaustion of monitoring tone. Of anticipating reactions. Of shaping yourself into something palatable, agreeable, safe. It does not look dramatic from the outside. In fact, it often looks like emotional intelligence, kindness, maturity, and reliability. Inside, it feels like a quiet erasure. This is the fawn response. And for many highly sensitive, emotionally attuned people, it has been running the show for far longer than they realise. What the fawn response really is Most people are familiar with fight or flight. Some have learned about freeze. The fawn response is the fourth trauma response, and arguably the most misunderstood. Fawning occurs when the nervous system learns that staying connected is what keeps you safe. Not physically safe. Relationally safe. When conflict felt dangerous, emotional withdrawal felt threatening, and love was inconsistent, conditional, or unpredictable, the system adapted. Instead of pushing back, you leaned in. Instead of expressing needs, you anticipated others’. Instead of taking up space, you learned how to shrink without disappearing. This was not weakness. It was intelligence. Your system learned what worked. Why fawning is so hard to see The fawn response rarely announces itself as fear. It disguises itself as: Being “easygoing” Being “understanding” Being the one who keeps the peace Being the dependable one Being emotionally available while emotionally abandoned. You might be the person everyone trusts, confides in, and relies on. And yet, you feel oddly unseen. Because fawning is not about connection that nourishes. It is about connection that prevents loss. The body is not asking, “What do I want?” It is asking, “What do I need to do to stay safe here?” How fawning shows up in relationships In intimate relationships, the fawn response often looks like love. But it is a love filtered through vigilance. You may notice yourself: Editing your words mid-sentence Agreeing while your body tightens Apologising reflexively Over-explaining to avoid misunderstanding Soothing someone else’s emotions before they even express them Staying longer than feels right because leaving feels unsafe. There is often a deep fear underneath: Fear of being too much Fear of being abandoned Fear of causing discomfort Fear of being “difficult” So you adapt. You become attuned to moods, micro-expressions, and shifts in energy. Your nervous system becomes relational radar. And while that sensitivity is powerful, when it is driven by fear, it becomes exhausting. How fawning shows up at work The workplace is a particularly fertile ground for the fawn response. Here, safety is tied to approval, stability, and belonging. You might notice: Saying yes when you want to say no Taking on extra work to avoid disappointing others Struggling to ask for help Over-preparing to avoid criticism Downplaying your needs or contributions Feeling anxious before meetings, emails, or feedback. You may be highly competent, yet constantly second-guessing yourself. Because the fawn response is not about confidence or ability. It is about what your system learned happens when you take up space. Four ways to recognise when you are fawning Fawning is not a thought pattern first. It is a body pattern. Some signs to look for: Tightness in the chest or throat when expressing yourself A sudden urge to placate or explain A sense of urgency to fix, smooth, or resolve Feeling responsible for how others feel Losing access to your own preferences in the moment A delayed realisation that you have crossed your own boundary. Often, the awareness comes later. You replay the conversation, feel the discomfort, and think, “Why did I say or do that?” That delay is not a failure. It is information. Your system moved faster than your conscious awareness. Why insight alone isn’t enough This is where many people get stuck. They understand the pattern. They can name it. They can even predict it. And yet, in the moment, it still happens, because the fawn response does not live in logic. It lives in the nervous system. When your body perceives a threat, it does not pause to consult your insight. It reaches for what has kept you safe before. This is why telling yourself to “just set boundaries” often backfires. If your system does not feel safe doing so, it will override you. Awareness comes before change. But safety comes before choice. What actually helps in triggering moments Overcoming the fawn response does not mean erasing it. It means creating enough internal safety that you do not need it in the same way. Here are grounded ways to work with it in real time. 1. Pause the performance When you notice the urge to explain, appease, or smooth things over, slow the moment down. You do not need to respond immediately. You do not need the perfect words. A pause is not withdrawal. It is a regulation. Even a simple “Let me think about that” can interrupt the pattern. 2. Anchor into the body Ask yourself: Where do I feel this in my body? What is tightening? What is bracing? Place a hand there if you can. Your body needs to feel with you before it will let you act differently. 3. Name what’s happening internally Silently naming can be powerful: “This is my system trying to keep me safe.” “This made sense once.” “I’m not in danger right now.” This is not reassurance. It is orientation. 4. Practice micro boundaries You do not need dramatic boundary setting to heal fawning. Start small: Buying time Saying “I’ll get back to you” Allowing silence Letting someone sit with mild discomfort. Your system learns safety through repetition, not force. The role of hypnotherapy in healing the fawn response Hypnotherapy works where fawning lives. Not at the level of behaviour, but at the level of learned safety. Through hypnotherapy, we work with: The subconscious associations between connection and threat The early conditioning that taught your system how to survive The emotional memory stored in the body The parts of you that learned to disappear to stay connected. This is not about rewriting your personality. It is about helping your nervous system realise that you no longer need to abandon yourself to belong. When safety becomes internal, choice becomes possible. From survival to self trust The fawn response is not something to eliminate. It is something to understand, integrate, and eventually outgrow. Because once your system feels safe enough, you will not need to perform for connection. You will be able to: Stay present in discomfort Express needs without panic Tolerate misunderstanding Trust yourself in relationships Take up space without bracing for impact. Not because you forced yourself to change, but because your body learned it was safe to be you. Nothing here needs fixing before it is understood. And understanding, done slowly and safely, changes everything. My work sits at the intersection of nervous system awareness, trauma-informed hypnotherapy, and lived experience. If you would like to explore these themes further, you can learn more about my work at my website or connect with me on social media, where I share ongoing insights into emotional patterns, relational dynamics, and the slow, meaningful work of healing. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn  for more info! Read more from Vicci O'Reilly Vicci O'Reilly , Emotional Wellness Hypnotherapist Vicci O'Reilly is a trauma-informed hypnotherapist and emotional wellness mentor who helps highly sensitive women heal trauma patterns, regulate their nervous system, and reconnect with their intuition. With a background in psychology and over 10 years of experience in meditation, shadow work, and energy healing, she blends science and spirituality to support deep self-awareness and empowerment. She is the creator of the Chakra Archetype system and founder of the Conscious Connection Membership.

Written by Sarah Fernandez, Psychologist & Youth Mental Health Specialist Sarah Fernandez, a distinguished Psychologist and Certified Youth Mental Health Specialist, is known for her work in empowering young minds. She is the founder of S. Fernandez Center for Wellness and the author of the journal books, Mindful Moments (2023) for children and Understanding Me (2025) for adolescents. Childhood anxiety is frequently associated with internal distress, such as excessive worry, fearfulness, or avoidance. However, in clinical and educational settings, anxiety often manifests through observable behavioural difficulties, including emotional outbursts, oppositional behaviour, and difficulties with compliance. These behavioural expressions are commonly misattributed to poor discipline or intentional misconduct, which can delay appropriate identification and intervention. Physiological arousal and behavioural dysregulation Anxiety involves heightened physiological arousal in response to perceived threat or uncertainty. In children, whose neural systems for self-regulation are still developing, elevated arousal can significantly interfere with behavioural control. When a child experiences sustained or intense anxiety, cognitive resources required for planning, impulse inhibition, and emotional modulation are reduced. During such states, behavioural responses tend to be reactive rather than deliberate. The child may struggle to pause, reflect, or respond flexibly, resulting in impulsive or disruptive behaviour that reflects emotional overload rather than purposeful defiance. Limited emotional awareness and expression Children often lack the linguistic and metacognitive skills needed to accurately identify and communicate internal emotional states. Anxiety may therefore be expressed indirectly through behaviour. Rather than verbalizing fear or uncertainty, the child may demonstrate irritability, restlessness, refusal, or aggression. From a clinical perspective, these behaviours can be understood as maladaptive attempts to manage distress, particularly when the child perceives limited control over their environment or the expectations placed upon them. Contextual factors that intensify anxiety responses Anxiety-related behavioural reactions are often context-dependent. Situations that place high demands on performance, adaptability, or social interaction are particularly challenging. Common contributing factors include: Tasks perceived as exceeding the child’s competence. Unclear or inconsistent expectations. Rapid transitions or environmental unpredictability. Sensory or social overstimulation. Repeated experiences of perceived failure. Children with underlying learning or neurodevelopmental differences may experience these stressors more intensely, increasing the likelihood that anxiety will present through behavioural dysregulation. Behaviour as an indicator of emotional distress Within psychological assessment and intervention frameworks, behaviour is conceptualized as an outward indicator of internal functioning. When anxiety overwhelms a child’s coping capacity, behaviour may serve as the most accessible means of expressing distress. Externalizing behaviours in this context often signal difficulty tolerating uncertainty, managing arousal, or accessing appropriate coping strategies. This interpretation shifts the focus from behavioural control to emotional understanding and support. Clinical implications Effective intervention requires addressing both behavioural presentation and underlying emotional processes. Approaches that emphasize emotional regulation, predictability, and supportive adult-child interactions are associated with improved outcomes. Key components include: Adult-led regulation and emotional containment. Explicit teaching of emotional awareness and coping skills. Environmental structure to reduce uncertainty. Gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking demands with appropriate support. When anxiety is reduced and coping capacity strengthened, improvements in behaviour typically follow. Closing Externalizing behaviours in children may reflect underlying anxiety rather than intentional non-compliance. Recognizing anxiety as a contributing factor allows for more accurate formulation and intervention planning. A clinically informed understanding of these behaviours supports interventions that promote emotional regulation, resilience, and adaptive functioning. Follow me on Instagram for more info! Read more from Sarah Fernandez Sarah Fernandez, Psychologist & Youth Mental Health Specialist Sarah Fernandez, a Psychologist, discovered her passion for youth mental health after witnessing her younger sister struggle with anxiety and panic attacks. Seeing her sister suffer in silence ignited Sarah’s desire to understand what was happening beneath the surface. She dedicated her studies to exploring mental health and brain development in children and adolescents. Today, she is committed to giving a voice to young people like her sister, ensuring they are seen, heard, and supported.

Written by Karmen Fairall, Speech Pathologist, Reflective Practitioner Karmen Fairall is a Speech Pathologist and reflective practitioner exploring sustainable leadership, boundaries, and wellbeing in helping professions. Drawing on lived experience, faith-informed values, and professional insight, she writes to support people who serve others in demanding roles. The reality hit me quietly, but when it came, it felt blinding. I find it far easier to keep myself and my mind busy than to slow down and rest. When given the choice, I don’t truly pause, I simply shift from one cognitive load to another. From housework to client goals. From emails to family logistics. This constant cognitive shifting feels productive, but it is not rest. It keeps the brain in a state of ongoing activation, never fully powering down. Add to this the modern tug of social media, the quick dopamine hits of doom scrolling, the shrinking attention spans, the ten-second hooks that have replaced entire songs, and it becomes increasingly difficult to remember what genuine stillness even feels like. As a clinician and mother, I have noticed the difference between real rest and constant motion in both my personal life and the lives of the families I support. Psychological research in attention and task switching consistently shows that frequent cognitive shifting makes the brain less effective, not more efficient. It places significant strain on the brain, increases mental fatigue, and reduces our capacity for emotional regulation, even when tasks feel familiar or necessary. This finding mirrors the lived experience of many caregivers and professionals. What we often label as rest is, neurologically speaking, simply another form of work. Parenting as a mirror Becoming a parent has a way of putting our habits on a megaphone. Watching an inquisitive toddler absorb my language, my phone habits, and my sense of urgency, and then model them back to me, has been confronting. The pace I carry does not stay contained within me, it spills into the environment I am creating for my family. Australian research on mental load has repeatedly shown that mothers carry a disproportionate share of invisible cognitive labour. This includes the planning, anticipating, remembering, and emotional monitoring that underpins family life. This work is continuous, largely unseen, and rarely paused, even when paid work stops. When this invisible load is layered with professional responsibility, the brain rarely receives the signal that it is safe to slow down. Perfectionism and pace I tend to overanalyse everything and hold myself to standards I would never impose on anyone else. Not my husband, not my children, not my colleagues. I expect myself to be perfect, forgetting how freely I extend grace to others for far smaller missteps. The word “sorry” appears alarmingly often in my daily vocabulary. I say it when “excuse me” or “pardon me” would suffice, reserving apology for moments that do not truly require it. Meanwhile, the moments that actually matter, presence, follow-through, and connection, quietly erode under the weight of constant busyness. Research on perfectionism within helping professions shows that when high personal standards are combined with strong responsibility for others, individuals are more vulnerable to chronic stress and emotional exhaustion. Over time, the nervous system learns that rest is unsafe, something to earn rather than a baseline need. The cost of continual motion What I am slowly realising is that never pausing does not just exhaust the body, it floods the mind with noise. So much mental energy is consumed by what feels urgent that there is little left for what is actually important. Connection with my family, trust in myself, and the capacity to follow through with integrity on the commitments I make. By not pausing, I may be serving everyone, but not serving anyone well. Neuroscience research on chronic cognitive load suggests that sustained mental strain reduces our ability to prioritise, make considered decisions, and remain emotionally present. In other words, the very capacities required for caregiving, leadership, and service are the first to erode when rest is continually deferred. Faith and rest Faith, for me, does not offer a neat solution, but it does offer a disruption. Scripture speaks often of rhythm. Of creation and rest, of sowing and waiting, of trust beyond self reliance. God rests, not from exhaustion, but to model completeness. He feeds the sparrows and clothes the lilies, yet I often live as though everything depends solely on my vigilance. When I pause long enough to reflect on this, I begin to question the pace society normalises, a pace that prizes speed, accumulation, and self-gain, often at the expense of relationships and wellbeing. Even then, I notice something uncomfortable. Even my pauses are rushed. My rest still operates at a running pace. I am learning, slowly, to practise a different kind of pause. One that resembles seated observation rather than constant motion. Like birdwatchers who wait patiently, camouflaged and still, for a fleeting glimpse of something extraordinary, I am discovering that it is often in sustained stillness that the small things become the most meaningful teachers. Practices for this season Baseline practice: Once each day, choose a pause that involves no productivity. No phone. No planning. No problem-solving. Even five minutes of stillness can help the nervous system recalibrate and restore perspective. Reaching practice: Identify one area where urgency has replaced intention. Ask yourself, "If I slowed this by ten percent, what might improve in my body, my relationships, or my integrity?" Continue the conversation I am currently in a season of slowing down and exploring how faith, frameworks, and reflective practice can support more sustainable leadership and service, particularly in helping professions. If this reflection resonated with you, I invite you to stay connected and follow my journey on LinkedIn, where I will continue to share insights as this work develops. Follow me on  Facebook ,  Instagram , LinkedIn , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Karmen Fairall Karmen Fairall, Speech Pathologist, Reflective Practitioner Karmen Fairall is a Speech Pathologist and business owner with experience across allied health, service-based leadership, and caregiving roles. Her writing explores burnout, cognitive load, boundaries, and sustainable leadership in helping professions. In this season, she is intentionally slowing down to reflect on how faith, frameworks, and systems can support healthier ways of serving others. Through her work, she seeks to help people lead and live with clarity, compassion, and care.

Written by Abisola Fagbiye, Customer Experience Strategist Abisola Fagbiye is a Customer Experience Strategist and Microsoft 365 Productivity Consultant with a Professional Diploma in CX from The CX Academy, Ireland. A WiCX member, she transforms how businesses connect with customers, turning interactions into drivers of loyalty and growth. Sharing your problem with a chatbot, then an agent, and then another after being transferred isn't just about frustration with the original issue, it's about feeling furious at a company that can't remember a conversation just two minutes ago. This one failure causes more customer loss than product issues do, yet many companies still struggle to connect their systems. When you explain your problem to a chatbot, then to a first agent, and again after being transferred, it can feel exhausting. By the fourth time, your frustration isn’t just about the original issue, it’s about the company’s inability to remember your conversation even after just a few minutes. This kind of experience can make customers feel ignored and undervalued, which is why connecting systems to create a seamless experience is so important. Research from Aspect Software reveals that 75% of customers expect consistent service across all channels. Meanwhile, over half of them say that having to repeat their issue multiple times is enough to make them abandon a brand, according to Accenture research. To improve, companies should establish clear KPIs for omnichannel success, such as first contact resolution rates and customer satisfaction scores. Investing in these metrics helps track progress and encourages continuous improvement in omnichannel engagement. True omnichannel customer experience means continuity Whenever a customer transitions from email to phone, it’s helpful if the human agent is aware of what was discussed in the email. When they switch back to chat after a phone call, the chatbot should pick up right where the conversation left off. However, many organisations face technical and organisational barriers, such as legacy systems and siloed teams, that hinder seamless data sharing. Overcoming these challenges requires strategic planning, investment in integrated platforms, and cross-department collaboration to achieve a truly unified customer experience.   Data silos kill omnichannel The CRM holds the purchase history, while the support platform tracks service tickets, and the marketing system records campaign engagement. Each one has a piece of the customer's story, but none has the whole picture, and unfortunately, they don't share their knowledge. When an agent answers a call, they can see the support history but might miss the latest purchase, which can feel frustrating for the customer, as if there's a gap in understanding. Remember, integration isn't just a tech project, it's about creating a seamless and positive customer experience. Mobile is non-negotiable Mobile devices account for most web traffic, yet many mobile experiences still need improvement. According to NewVoiceMedia, most customers have negative mobile experiences, which can make them feel overlooked and unimportant. Google's research shows that fast-loading sites achieve much higher conversion rates than slower ones. Prioritising mobile design helps customers feel respected and confident in your brand, which is essential for building trust.   Emerging opportunities exist According to research from LogMeIn, most consumers are eager to have video and screen-sharing options when they need support, but fewer than half of organisations provide these features. Forrester's studies show that companies adopting co-browsing software enjoy notably stronger revenue growth. Since our brains process visual information much more quickly than text, letting customers demonstrate their issues rather than describe them helps speed up resolutions and creates a smoother support experience.   Build incrementally Take a moment to review your current setup honestly. Map out every channel where your customers interact and look for points where conversations transfer and sometimes drop off. Pay special attention to your busiest transition points. If most customers start on your website and then switch to a phone call, prioritise making those transitions seamless. Consider investing in unified customer data platforms that give you a complete view of each customer across all systems. Be intentional about designing for smooth context transfer. Track how much effort your customers need to put in based on their journey and the channels they use. By training your team on omnichannel systems, you can really boost the consistency of your customer experience, making your service more unified and friendly.   Organisation matters as much as technology Most companies tend to organise around specific channels, such as the web team, the phone team, or the chat team. While this helps optimise each channel, it can also make customer journeys feel fragmented and impersonal. Customer-centric organisations focus on customer outcomes, making customers feel supported and valued throughout their journey. When teams are responsible for the whole experience rather than just individual touchpoints, customers feel cared for and understood, which builds loyalty. Customers have already shown they prefer seamless omnichannel experiences. Research consistently finds that most believe brands should put more effort into providing smooth interactions across all channels. Companies that succeed in delivering these experiences often see increased customer loyalty, higher lifetime value, and reduced service costs. Emphasising these tangible benefits can motivate organisations to prioritise omnichannel initiatives and remain competitive in the evolving market landscape.   Is your team struggling with disconnected customer experiences? The keynote "Deliver Consistency Without Killing Personalisation" solves this exact challenge. You'll discover how companies provide seamless omnichannel experiences while still making each customer feel individually served. Your organisation will learn the integration roadmap, technology priorities, and organisational changes that work. Bring this keynote to your organisation,  or email abisola@abisolafagbiye.com Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Abisola Fagbiye Abisola Fagbiye, Customer Experience Strategist Abisola Fagbiye is a Customer Experience Strategist and Microsoft 365 Productivity Consultant who helps organisations rethink engagement, build CX-driven cultures, and drive retention and growth. With global experience spanning SMBs to enterprises, she delivers workshops and training that blend strategy, energy, and actionable insight. She is a mentor and rising voice in CX leadership. Further reading: How to Collect Customer Feedback and Actually Do Something with It How to Train Customer Service Teams That Actually Perform

Written by Dr. O. Esther Aluko, Career & Personal Development Coach She is a Career and Personal Development Coach with almost ten years of experience. Her expertise is in Job & workplace readiness, career planning, growth, and personal development. Her work focuses on helping individuals build their capacity for career progression, navigate job transitions with ease, and achieve personal effectiveness using results-oriented methods. Scaling a business is often described as growth, more clients, more staff, more revenue, more visibility. But growth without intelligence creates strain. The Ripple Effect Advantage introduces a more sustainable approach: Ripple Intelligence, the ability to understand how small operational decisions multiply into long-term outcomes. Businesses do not fail because they grow too fast. They fail because they grow without addressing the small cracks that eventually widen under pressure. Ripple Intelligence is the discipline of recognising how everyday operational decisions influence people, performance, and profit over time. It is the awareness that systems, culture, and customer experience are not isolated functions but interconnected ripples. When Ripple Intelligence is present, businesses scale with clarity and control. When it is absent, growth amplifies inefficiencies. Scaling is not about doing more. It is about doing the right things repeatedly and well.   Operations are the backbone of any business. They determine whether growth feels controlled or chaotic. Ripple mapping in operations means identifying where small inefficiencies exist and understanding how they affect the wider system. A delayed approval process may slow delivery. An unclear workflow may create errors. A lack of documentation may increase dependency on individuals rather than systems. Each of these issues seems manageable in isolation. Together, they create friction that compounds as the business grows. Businesses with Ripple Intelligence regularly review:   Workflows Handover processes Decision-making authority Documentation Communication channels   They do not wait for breakdowns, they anticipate them.   People do not scale automatically with the business. They require investment, clarity, and development. Staff development is one of the most powerful ripple points in an organisation. When employees understand expectations, feel supported, and are given opportunities to grow, performance improves naturally. Without development, staff may cope at a small scale but struggle as demands increase. This creates stress, errors, and disengagement. Ripple-intelligent businesses invest in:   Clear role definitions Ongoing training Leadership development Regular feedback Accountability structures   When people grow with the business, scaling becomes smoother and more sustainable.   Customer experience is often discussed in broad terms, but it is built through small, repeated interactions. Every touchpoint from the first enquiry to post-service follow-up creates a ripple. One delayed response, one unclear message, or one broken promise can undo months of trust. Conversely, one positive experience can generate referrals, loyalty, and reputation. Businesses that scale successfully map the customer journey carefully. They ask: Where do customers feel confused? Where do delays occur? Where do expectations go unmanaged? Where can we exceed expectations consistently?   The answers to these questions guide improvements that compound into stronger brand trust. Scalable businesses do not rely on heroics. They rely on repeatability.   Repeatable systems ensure that quality does not depend on who is present on a given day. They allow businesses to grow without sacrificing standards. Repeatability comes from:   Documented processes Clear performance metrics Defined escalation routes Standardised training Consistent communication   When systems are repeatable, onboarding becomes easier, errors reduce, and leadership can focus on strategy rather than firefighting.   Strategic partnerships and collaborations Scaling does not always require internal expansion. Sometimes, the smartest ripple is collaboration. Strategic partnerships allow businesses to extend capacity, reach new markets, or enhance offerings without overstretching internal resources. Ripple-intelligent collaborations are:   Aligned in values Clear in expectations Mutually beneficial Supported by agreements and governance   Poorly chosen partnerships create confusion and reputational risk. Well-chosen partnerships create leverage. The ripple effect of a strong partnership can be transformative.   Ripple Intelligence requires leaders to pay attention early. Prevention is always more effective than correction. Leaders play a critical role in scaling. Their decision-making style, communication habits, and tolerance for ambiguity shape the business. Scaling requires leaders to shift from involvement to oversight. From doing to directing. From reacting to anticipating. This transition is often uncomfortable, but it is essential. Leaders who develop Ripple Intelligence recognise that their growth must match the growth of the business. The difference lies in attention to detail and commitment to consistency. Ask yourself: Where are small issues being tolerated? Which processes rely too heavily on individuals? How consistent is our customer experience? Are our systems built for growth or survival? What ripple, if addressed now, would protect us later?   Because growth does not magnify strengths alone. It magnifies weaknesses too.   Scaling is not about speed. It is about stability. When businesses develop Ripple Intelligence, growth stops feeling risky and starts feeling intentional. That is the Ripple Effect Advantage   Join the ripple effect advantage early access list You’ll be the first to receive: The Ripple Blueprint Workbook A free Ripple Reset 2026 live coaching session First access to the 12-week Ripple Effect Accelerator Early-bird bonuses Pre-release pricing for the Ripple Effect Advantage eBook   Begin your ripple here . Because breakthroughs don’t start with big moments. They start with one intentional ripple, and this might be yours.   Missed my earlier articles on The Ripple Effect Advantage? Complete the form above to receive the full series and catch up at your own pace. Follow me on Instagram , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Dr. O. Esther Aluko Dr. O. Esther Aluko, Career & Personal Development Coach She is a Career and Personal Development Coach with almost ten years of experience. Her expertise is in Job & workplace readiness, career planning, growth, and personal development. Her work focuses on helping individuals build their capacity for career progression, navigate job transitions with ease, and achieve personal effectiveness using results-oriented methods. Her speaking engagements span the United Kingdom, Belgium, West Africa, and Ireland with corporate organizations and higher education institutions.