October is all about Mental Health Awareness, and we've got some exciting news to share Drumroll, please Not only is our 5 Annual Alternative Therapies Workshop but also we're growing our Essential Wellness Coaching team!
With everything going on in the world, taking care of our mental health is a top priority We've always been on a mission to help you live your best life, and now, with some awesome new folks on board, we're more ready than ever to support you on your journey to mental and emotional wellness
Having hosting over 27 wellness events across South Africa since 2018, I can no longer do this by myself and thus building an Essential Wellness Coaching Team is our 2023 mission, setting the way for 2024 Watch this space
Throughout this month, we'll be sharing loads of cool articles and resources about mental health. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, feeling a bit down, or just want to improve your emotional well-being, we've got your back
We want this to be a safe space where you can talk about your mental health, share your stories, and find inspiration Let's break the stigma and support each other on this mental health journey.
Thanks for being part of our Essential Wellness Coaching family Together, we can make mental health a priority and create a caring community for everyone. WE HIT OVER 27K FOLLOWERS ON FACEBOOK IN OCT. THANK YOU!!!
Disclaimer: Our content is meant to inform and inspire, but it's not a substitute for professional advice. Your well-being matters, so consult a specialist or doctor for medical advice Stay well!
In 2019, I had the honor of hosting the Alternative Therapies Workshop, bringing togetherWomeninMedicineinMpumalanga. Itwasaplatformtoconnectclientswith practitioners, shedding light on wellness practices and providing affordable educationandexplorationoptions C e lebrating 5Years
This magazine provides practitioners, coaches, therapists and other alternative or complementary therapists to share information, courses, programs,trainingandeventsinSouthAfrica.
Click on images, bold or underlined texts to be directed to websites, pages and more. Feel free to share this magazine over WHATSAPP with familyandfriends.Relaxandenjoytheinformative
Therapeutic exercises for mental and emotional well-being.
In an increasingly fast-paced world filled with stressors and challenges, maintaining good mental and emotional well-being is essential for leading a fulfilling life Fortunately, there are a variety of therapeutic exercises and practices that can help individuals better understand and manage their emotions, reduce stress, and promote overall psychological health This article explores five powerful holistic therapeutic exercises that have been proven to contribute significantly to mental and emotional well-being.
EFT Tapping is a form of psychological acupressure that involves gently tapping specific points on the body while focusing on emotional issues It is believed to help release negative emotions, reduce anxiety, and alleviate stress You can find many online resources and videos to learn how to perform EFT Tapping effectively
Somatic tapping is rooted in the idea that emotional and psychological issues are often stored in the body as tension and discomfort. By addressing these physical sensations directly through tapping and verbal expression, individuals can release emotional energy and potentially find relief from emotional distress.
JOURNALING AND MEDITATIONRELEASE MENTAL ENERGY
Keeping a journal can be a powerful way to explore and process your thoughts and emotions You can write about your daily experiences, express your feelings, set goals, or simply reflect on your thoughts Regular journaling can help you gain clarity, reduce stress, and track your emotional progress over time
MINDFULNESS - LIMITING UNNECESSARY STIMULATION
Mindfulness involves being fully present in the moment without judgment. Meditation practices like mindfulness can help you cultivate self-awareness and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. You can start with short daily mindfulness sessions, focusing on your breath or sensory experiences
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY - MOVE STAGNANT ENERGY
Regular physical activity is not only vital for physical health but also plays a crucial role in maintaining mental and emotional wellbeing Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers, and it helps reduce stress and improve sleep quality Finding a physical activity that one enjoys, whether it's jogging, practicing yoga, dancing, or participating in team sports, can be a fun and effective way to boost emotional wellness
ART - UNDER ESTIMATED Therapy
Art therapy involves using creative processes, such as drawing, painting, or sculpting, as a means of self-expression and healing. You don't need to be an artist to benefit from art therapy; it's about the process, not the end product. Creating art can help you explore emotions, reduce stress, and gain insight into your feelings.
Art therapy harnesses the power of creative expression to promote emotional healing. It involves various artistic mediums, such as drawing, painting, or sculpting, to explore emotions, reduce stress, and gain insight into one ' s inner world. You don't need to be an artist to benefit from art therapy; it's about the therapeutic process rather than artistic skill
ESSENTIAL WELLNESS COACH
DAY1. PREP YOURSELF/ DECLUTTER
DAY2. USE EXPRESSIVE WORDS
DAY3. SMILE/ GREET OTHERS
DAY4. GET CREATIVE
DAY6. LISTENTO YOURSELF
DAY11. MAKE SOMEONES DAY
DAY7. TENDTOA TASKYOU HAVEPUT OFF DAY8. SPENDTIME OUTDOORS
DAY21. GOONAN ADVENTURE DAY22. DISCOVER NEWMUSIC DAY23. SHOW COMPASSION
DAY26. ELECTRONIC FREEDAY DAY27. SET1 PERSONAL GOAL
DAY28. TRYANEW RECIPE
DAY24. CHANGE SOMETHING INYOUR HOME
DAY5. LEARN SOMETHING NEW
DAY10. PLAYFULNESS /GAMES
DAY15. MEDITATION OR BREATHING
DAY20. REORGANIZE SOMETHING
DAY25. JOURNAL YOUR THOUGHTS
DAY29. REFLECTION JOURNAL
DAY30. CREATE YOURSELFA MAINTENANCE PLAN
Alternative Therapies Workshop 5th Annual
This workshop brings together experts and enthusiasts to discuss and experience various alternative therapies that can complement traditional mental health practices. Participants will gain valuable insights into techniques like Hypnotherapy, Psychotherapy, Physical and Emotional release exercises, empowering you to take proactive steps toward better mental and emotional health. Join us as we journey towards a more comprehensive understanding of well-being and healing. Clickontheimagetobook/reserveyourseatfor theeventinyourarea.
In the world of wellness and mental health, the importance of exploring various therapeutic approaches cannot be overstated While traditional therapies like talk therapy and medication have proven effective for many, alternative therapies are gaining recognition for their valuable contributions to overall well-being.
Diversity in therapeutic options allows individuals to find approaches that resonate with their unique needs, preferences, and belief systems.
Alternative therapies often take a holistic approach, addressing not only the symptoms but also the root causes of mental and physical health issues. This can lead to more comprehensive healing and improved overall well-being.
Embracing alternative therapies helps to reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. It sends the message that there is no one-sizefits-all solution to mental health, making it more acceptable for individuals to explore different avenues for healing
I have noticed in my classes how students often say that they leave class with sense of calm and well-being The act of drawing can be a powerful tool in calming anxiety and relieving stress.
Some students that entered our studio with either depression or anxiety reported significant changes in their mental health, and a relief from depression and reduced anxiety in their day-to-day life
The act of drawing triggers your brain’s relaxation response, creating a sense of deep rest To draw from observation requires a mental shift of focus, and with all our focus on what we are drawing, mental chatter ceases, giving the mind an opportunity to rest
Within minutes of starting an observational drawing, one can reach a flow state, characterized by a sense of timelessness, a lack of anxiety, and physical calmness that effects our entire body, from our heart rate to our cortisol levels and even our brain activity, which slows to a theta wave, in the frontal areas of the brain, with moderate alpha wave activity in the frontal and central areas. Theta and alpha wave activity allows one to be alert, yet calm This brain activity is usually also
present during meditation, or prayer Alpha and theta brain waves have been found to alleviate symptoms of both major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder Beyond stress relief, happiness can also be found at the end of one ’ s pencil. Drawing has been shown to release serotonin, endorphins, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are the chemicals responsible for our experience of happiness. Not only does the act of drawing uplift our souls, but the mere act of creating brings us back into the flow of life, which is a concionuous, active creative force.
Mental health constitutes a fundamental dimension of our holistic well-being, but regrettably, it continues to be one of the most widely misconceived and stigmatized matters in contemporary society.
Undoubtedly, the significance of mental health awareness cannot be emphasized enough, given that countless individuals across the globe contend with a myriad of mental health issues. Within this article, we shall delve into the importance of mental health awareness and provide practical advice on how to provide effective support to individuals grappling with mental health challenges.
Understanding Mental Health:
The initial stride in nurturing mental health awareness involves comprehending its essence. Mental health encompasses the facets of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It exerts influence on our cognitive processes, emotional states, and behavioral patterns, bearing substantial significance in our capacity to cope with stress, establish relationships, and make decisions.
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS: HOW TO SUPPORT SOMEONE IN NEED
By Loreal Nel Essential Wellness Coach
The Prevalence of Mental Health Challenges:
Mental health issues are more widespread than often perceived. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that depression stands as the primary contributor to global disability. Additionally, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and an array of other conditions significantly affect a substantial portion of the global population.
Stigma and Its Impact:
The enduring presence of stigma and discrimination against individuals with mental health issues creates hurdles for those seeking assistance. This stigma frequently originates from misconceptions and a dearth of understanding regarding mental health.
How to Help Someone with Mental Health Concerns:
Self-Education is Key:
Initiate your journey by delving into mental health education. Immerse yourself in books, articles, and consider attending workshops or online courses to enhance your comprehension of various mental health conditions and the available treatment approaches. This knowledge serves as a potent tool for dispelling misconceptions and diminishing stigma.
Listen Actively and NonJudgmentally:
One of the most impactful methods to aid someone dealing with mental health issues is by cultivating strong listening skills. Establish a secure and non-judgmental environment that allows them to freely articulate their emotions and experiences. At times, all an individual requires is someone who will sincerely lend an ear.
Offer Your Presence:
Merely offering your presence can offer profound solace. Extend your support, whether through physical presence, phone calls, or video chats. Assure them that you are accessible whenever they feel prepared to converse.
Encourage Professional Help:
Suggesting professional help is crucial. Encourage your loved one to seek support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist. Offer to help them find suitable resources and accompany them to appointments if they're comfortable with that.
Promote a Stigma-Free Environment: Challenge and confront stigma whenever you encounter it. Engage in open conversations about mental health, share stories, and promote empathy and understanding in your community.
InnerWorld Healing 8 Week Program
This 8 Week program is designed to help you gain a deeper understanding of inner healing, including the various methods and models used in this form of therapy. Throughout the program, you will be encouraged to embark on your own emotional healing journey, exploring the benefits of different approaches to this process. By completing this program, you will have a greater appreciation of inner work and its potential to transform your life.
This 8 Week Workshop Online includes the following topics:
Understanding and utilizing chakras for personal growth
Healing past traumas by exploring your Inner Child, Inner Teenager, and Inner Adult
Personalized diet and nutritional protocols
Incorporating essential oils into your wellness routine
Practicing scientific meditation and affirmations for overall well-being
Engaging in physical, mental, and emotional sessions and activities.
Receive a printable workbook weekly.
1:1 Video Call or Zoom Call and more.
Greetings! Loreal Nel, an Internationally recognized Holistic Life, Health, and Wellness Coach & Practitioner, is here to offer you her expertise. As the founder of Essential Wellness South Africa/Coach, she provides integrated programs aimed at restoring balance in all areas of your life with guidance and support She empowers you to take responsibility for your well-being Are you prepared to take this step?
ENROLL HERE
PROGRAM IS ALSO AVAILABLE WITHOUT THE
ESSENTIAL OIL OF THE MONTH
Y L A N G Y L A N G
@BENATURAL
Ylang ylang essential oil is often used in aromatherapy for its potential to promote emotional well-being and provide various mental and emotional benefits When using ylang ylang essential oil for emotional well-being it's essential to dilute it with a carrier oil if applying it topically and to perform a patch test to ensure you don't have an allergic reaction
Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines The essential oil is extracted from the fragrant, starshaped flowers of the ylang ylang tree The name "ylang ylang" comes from the Tagalog language, meaning "flower of flowers"
5 Uses for Ylang Ylang
1
Aromatherapy: Ylang ylang essential oil finds extensive use in aromatherapy to enhance emotional and mental wellbeing, as mentioned previously.
2
Skincare: Ylang ylang oil is a sought-after ingredient in skincare products such as creams and lotions, prized for its ability to regulate sebum production, making it suitable for both dry and oily skin types
3
Haircare: Ylang ylang oil is frequently incorporated into shampoos and conditioners to promote healthy hair and impart a glossy shine
4
Massage: Diluted with a carrier oil, ylang ylang oil is a favored choice for massages, helping to soothe muscles and induce a profound sense of relaxation and well-being
Ylang ylang essential oil has a rich, sweet, and floral fragrance. Its aroma is often described as exotic, luxurious, and sensuous There are different grades of ylang ylang oil, with the highest quality being referred to as "ylang ylang extra" and having the most intense scent
Ylang ylang essential oil contains various chemical compounds, including sesquiterpenes, monoterpenes, and esters The main constituents responsible for its aroma and therapeutic properties include benzyl acetate, linalool, geranyl acetate, and p-cresyl methyl ether
5 It can be quite potent, so it's recommended to dilute it with a carrier oil when applying it to the skin If you are unsure how to use this oil, Feel free to contact via the WhatsApp order link Consult with a health-care professional for medicals
Perfumery: Ylang ylang's captivating fragrance makes it a highly regarded component in perfumes and fragrances, adding an alluring and exotic note to scents.
FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
H O W S A M A N T H A
N D R E W S S T A Y S Y O U N G A T 4 0
Yoga is a group of physical, mental, and spiritual practices or disciplines which originated in ancient India There is a broad variety of Yoga schools, practices, and goals in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Among the most well-known types of yoga are Hatha yoga and Rāja yoga.
The origins of yoga have been speculated to date back to pre-Vedic Indian traditions, it is mentioned in the Rigveda, but most likely developed around the sixth and fifth centuries BCE, in ancient India's ascetic and śramana movements.
Yoga gurus from India later introduced yoga to the west, [16] following the success of Swami Vivekananda in the late 19th and early 20th century. In the 1980s, yoga became popular as a system of physical exercise across the Western world.
Yoga in Indian traditions, however, is more than physical exercise, it has a meditative and spiritual core. One of the six major
I DO YOGA, I'M VEGAN, AND I TRY TO STAY HAPPY ALL THE TIME.
orthodox schools of Hinduism is also called Yoga, which has its own epistemology and metaphysics, and is closely related to Hindu Samkhya philosophy.
Distinctions are sometimes made between several categories of veganism Dietary vegans refrain from ingesting animal products. This means avoiding not only meat but also egg and dairy products and other animal-derived foodstuffs Some dietary vegans choose to wear clothing that includes animal products (for example, leather or wool).
The term ethical vegan is often applied to those who extend the philosophy beyond diet into other areas of their lives.
Vegan diets tend to be higher in dietary fiber, magnesium, folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron, and phytochemicals, and lower in dietary energy, saturated fat, cholesterol, longchain omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, calcium, zinc, and vitamin B12 Well-planned vegan diets can reduce the risk of some types of chronic disease including heart disease
Vegan diets are regarded as appropriate for all stages of the life-cycle by the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council, and Dietitians of Canada.
Because uncontaminated plant foods do not provide vitamin B12 (which is produced by microorganisms such as bacteria), researchers agree that vegans should eat B12fortified foods
BOOK WITH ESSENTIAL WELLNESS COACH
ZOOM IN TO READ
ARE YOU CARRYING EMOTIONAL WEIGHT?
BY LOREAL NEL
Emotions play a vital role in shaping our lives, influencing our decisions, and coloring our experiences. We often hear phrases like "emotional weight" or "carrying emotional baggage." But what exactly does it mean to bear emotional weight? In this article, we will explore the concept of emotional weight, its impact on our well-being, and strategies for managing and lightening our emotional burdens.
Emotional weight refers to the accumulation of unresolved emotions and experiences that burden our hearts and minds These burdens can manifest as lingering sadness, guilt, anger, or anxiety, and they can accumulate over time, affecting our mental and emotional well-being It's as if we carry a backpack filled with emotional baggage, weighing us down and hindering our ability to move forward.
Weight-gain can also be caused from unresolved emotional issues such as above mentioned. Unable to digest emotions, emotionally eating or starvation.
Under-weight caused by emotionally distress or lack of emotional growth or stability
Managing emotional weight is a gradual process, requiring patience, self-reflection, and a commitment to self-care By doing so, we can embark on a journey towards emotional liberation and embrace a lighter, more joyous existence.
Carrying emotional weight can have significant consequences on our overall quality of life. It can affect our relationships, work performance, and overall happiness Unresolved emotions can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression, impairing our ability to cope with everyday challenges Moreover, emotional weight can prevent us from fully engaging with the present moment and hinder personal growth and selffulfillment
Recognizing the presence of emotional weight is the first step towards lightening our load Here are some common signs that may indicate the existence of emotional weight in our lives:
Lingering negative emotions: If you find yourself frequently experiencing prolonged feelings of sadness, anger, or resentment, it might be a sign that there are unresolved emotional issues at play.
1. Repeated patterns: Observe if you repeatedly find yourself in similar situations or relationships that evoke negative emotions This pattern may indicate unresolved emotional weight that needs addressing 2. Difficulty letting go: If you struggle to let go of past hurts or forgive yourself and others, it suggests the presence of emotional weight that requires attention
3 Practice emotional release: Engage in activities that facilitate emotional release, such as journaling, art therapy, or physical exercise These outlets can help express and process emotions effectively, gradually lightening the emotional burden
5
4 Letting go and forgiveness: Release yourself from the weight of past grudges and regrets. Forgiving others and yourself can be liberating and pave the way for healing and personal growth.
