South Africa is one of the 5 countries with the highest postpartum depression rates worldwide. The stigma attached to this condition makes it hard for new moms to admit they’re not coping. Counselling psychologist Luricka Fick discusses the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of postnatal depression, the question of “fantasy versus reality”, and sensible steps a mom or her loved ones should take.

Hoewel versuim om onderhoud te betaal ‘n kriminele oortreding is, ontvang talle primêre versorgers nie die onderhoud wat hulle of hul kinders toekom nie. ‘n Nuwe inisiatief verhoed dat onderhoudwanbetalers voortgaan om krediet te ontvang terwyl hulle onderhoud verskuldig is – en ‘n nuwe toep help geskeide ouers om misverstande en konflik te beperk. (Hierdie artikel het in die Februarie 2023-uitgawe van ‘rooi rose’ verskyn.)

What does experiencing reverence for life, nature and your own body really mean? Angel whisperer Belinda Bras-Nel discusses allowing your subtle body to connect with that of other beings or objects; how to honour life as a creative experience facilitating your journey, not a struggle for survival; and practical ways to strengthen your subtle energy field. Listen to her talking about her two new wolf pups!

South Africans are daily plunged into the dark by intermittent electricity supply – but have we been robbed of our inner energy? Rudi Swanepoel explains how we can channel our personal power in a solution-focused way, the benefits of harnessing group energy, and how parents can use their energy to empower their children - in particular the parents of teens and young adults.

Counselling psychologist Doreen Hofmeyr explains how BrainWorking® Recursive Therapy Level 3 targets the psychological aspects and underpinnings of physiological conditions like fibromyalgia. She discusses BWRT Level 1, 2 and 3; how fight/flight triggers are deactivated to create desired responses; and how Level 3 work accomplishes emotional relief and the best possible health outcome.

Functional medicine, an individualised approach that treats not by symptom but by cause, leads to more lasting results. Functional medicine health coach Anita Hamilton-Williams discusses its success regarding chronic conditions; its focus on genetics, biochemistry, nutrition, lifestyle and behaviour changes; and why genetics needn’t determine our disease profile. She mentions the tests she uses, case studies, and good news concerning ageing.

Men and women are wired differently. Psychologist and former serial killer profiler Dr. Micki Pistorius’ insights into the male psyche are arresting. She describes men as heroes and warriors. How do men view emotions, dating, female friends and marriage? What are their strongest drives and deepest fear? How does one best communicate with a man? Dr. Pistorius’ book, “Heroes”, offers answers that every woman should note.

How have individuals with OCD been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic? Prof. Christine Lochner discusses global research findings regarding the prevalence rates, severity and the risk factors – including being single, a student or having sleep disturbances. Interesting: certain OCD symptoms may have developed to ensure the survival of our ancestors… Learn how to best manage a mental health condition during a pandemic.

Have you discovered the potency and growth potential of mastermind groups? Business development specialist Di-Di Hoffman explains what masterminding is, its objectives and benefits, and how you can start and run a micro-mastermind group successfully. He emphasises mistakes to avoid, the importance of accountability, and the “magic” that happens when a group gels.

Kan dit wees dat élkeen van ons kreatief is en ons skeppendheid deur speelsheid kan herontdek? RSG-programbestuurder en kreatiwiteitsafrigter Kobus Burger verduidelik hoe om struikelblokke in ons pad te systap, vergete drome te herwin, en op moontlikheidsdenke te fokus. Hy gee praktiese wenke om kreatiwiteit maklik en vinnig in ons lewens in te sluit.

Would you like to set big goals or have new experiences, but is fear or doubt holding you back? Master transformation coach Liezl Thom explains what keeps us within the parameters we know - and how neuroplasticity, a little willpower, repetition, small rewards and support can help us shape a richer reality. “When your reason is stronger than your fear, you’re on your way.”

Understanding the differences in the way men and women communicate, can ease life at work and at home. Through her science-backed work, body language expert Tania Steyn reconnects people with their “primary language” by increasing self-awareness. She points out dissimilarities between the sexes’ communication styles, and non-verbal behaviour traps women can avoid to develop leadership presence. Learn more about lunch chasers, fire gazers and nest builders, and why you shouldn’t cross your arms in the workplace.

Many parents, caregivers and young children are feeling stressed out, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic. Mari Payne, involved in Takalani Sesame, explains how adults can recognise overwhelming feelings in kids and support them; what is necessary for children to thrive; and why self-care for adults is so important. She offers easy and practical tips for calming down a child – and yourself!

Finding talking to your teen an uphill battle? Psychologist, coach and dad Hennie Vorster throws light on the development of adolescents’ logical-rational faculties, the power of their emotions, the world they inhabit, and why so many struggle with anxiety. He advises listening for emotion, guiding teens to focus on what is in their control, and using choices and consequences as parenting tools.

NLP coach Cherona D shares her journey with skin cancer and an ear stroke, which left her unable to hear the words she speaks. Explaining how she - an international speaker - manages this loss, she talks about discerning between her emotions and reality, what she can and cannot control, her vulnerability and faith, the therapy that brought relief, and the mistakes cancer and stroke patients should avoid. This is also the poignant story of Albus Malachi, the service dog.

A growing number of wellness professionals are combining holistic practices with a traditional approach. Clinical mental health counsellor Chris McDonald explains how strategies like mindfulness, breathing and yoga enhance talk therapy by calming the nervous system and strengthening the body connection. She highlights the benefits of addressing clients’ emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs, finding sustainable self-care practices, and managing the stigma sometimes attached to holistic techniques.

Young kids’ and tweens’ emotional health seldom gets the attention it deserves. Actress Milan Murray, collaborating with mental health experts, has created journals for 6-to-13-year-olds prompting reflection and self-understanding. Exploring their identity in an age-appropriate way – and being part of The My Story Tribe - helps them stand stronger, set healthy boundaries, overcome challenges, and have fun!

Business & executive coach Dawn Klatzko discusses the objectives of coaching, the importance of a chemistry check, and how coaches use profiling instruments to help their clients achieve their goals. She illuminates the neuroscience-based Mind Dynamix Profile Instrument, explaining why our “experts” power down during stress and how Mind Moves tap into neuroplasticity.

Did you know that therapeutic reflexologists don’t work only on the feet? Therapeutic reflexologist Marinda Nel discusses the value of reflexology regarding acute and chronic conditions, preventative care, recovery and stress-related problems. Apart from physical manipulation of the reflexes, relaxation exercises, lifestyle and emotional aspects are addressed.    

Did you know there are approximately seven million 60-plussers in South Africa? Discussing the potential and challenges of this demographic, social entrepreneur Marilyn Hallett highlights a sensible approach to technical, financial, housing as well as physical and mental health difficulties. She encourages individuals to start a second career after retirement and points them to relevant information, senior citizen discounts, savings and benefits.