CLEAR & HELPFUL: taking care of yourself and others

Hanteer jy verandering goed? Wat van onvoorspelbaarheid, ontnugtering en ouer word? Skrywer, spreker en spirituele begeleier Philip Liebenberg praat oor verskillende soorte verandering, denkskuiwe wat dit vergemaklik, diere en dekor, soepelheid, vrede en aanvaarding.

Neuroscience shows that Mom’s brain changes as she expects, births and nurtures her baby. How about Dad’s brain, or that of a foster mom or caretaker? Cozette Laubser explains how certain areas in the brain shrink or grow, how close contact with a baby “rewards” parents with feel-good hormones, and how being nurtured helps children develop a regulated nervous system. She reassures parents that parenting means growing a skill set and offers advice on exhaustion and moms returning to work.

Are introverts better networkers than extroverts? Helen Nicholson considers “superpowers” introverts possess, why many introverts feel invisible in the workplace, and how the brains of introverts, extroverts and ambiverts differ. She discusses connectors and mavens, storytelling and developing a powerful personal brand, and a valuable small-talk technique.

How does CBT differ from other therapies? Clinical psychologist Dr Colinda Linde explains that it’s fast, practical, evidence-based, and characterised by teamwork between client and practitioner. CBT effectively addresses conditions including anxiety, depression, stress management, and sleeping and eating disorders; equips clients with skills; and can be used in group settings.

How about a safe, total-body exercise that burns more calories than walking but requires less exertion - and impacts your joints less? Nordic Walker and trainer Lohra de Waal discusses this fast-growing sport, suitable to all ages and many chronic, medical or geriatric conditions. She discusses research findings, the advantages of Nordic Walking, suitable poles and how trail and ultra runners as well as individuals walking for enjoyment can benefit.

Through your voice, you can express all your emotions – and your needs. Do you find this easy or difficult? Arts therapist Karen de Kock explains that every emotion has a sound, why we may feel silenced, strangled or blocked, and mentions processes and techniques that can bring relief. You can use your voice to activate or calm your nervous system – even to save your life!

Nuusman Johan Allers gesels oor jeugdige naïwiteit, die Groot Storie waaraan hy soveel lewensenergie gewy het, sy werk in 54 lande en die ervaring van “inmekaarstort, uitbrand en byna selfvernietig.” Hy praat oor die skok van ouer word en die fragiliteit van menswees - en wat dit beteken om saggies te loop.

Nuuskierigheid, ‘n honger na kennis, ‘n ondersoekende gees – die Engelse woord curiosity word moeilik vertaal. Tap jou kind se onophoudelike vrae soms jou energie? Lees waarom jy sy of haar weetlus moet aanvuur! Vind uit wat die 3 soorte nuuskierigheid en "produktiewe frustrasie" behels, en kry wenke om ‘n nuuskierige agie te help kweek.

Why do some traumatic experiences remain unprocessed? Post-traumatic growth specialist Sinta Ebersohn discusses the two components of trauma, the top 5 stressors, resilience as a set of skills and a growth process that can help us deal with whatever life throws at us.