Time is a precious commodity these days, with packed schedules and never-ending to-do lists. What if we were intentional about carving out pockets of undivided attention, free from the pings and dings of technology, an intentional space to tap into the restorative power of presence?

Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly Merry Christmas – Peg Bracken

This could mean a leisurely coffee date with a dear friend, an unhurried stroll in nature, or an evening of board games with the family. We can truly listen, connect, and be present with those we love in these moments.

And then there’s the simple act of gentle touch – a warm hug, a comforting hand on the shoulder, or an affectionate pat on the back. Studies have shown that physical contact not only strengthens our bonds with others but also has tangible benefits for our mental, emotional, physical and social well-being. Touch can lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and even boost our immune systems. Yet in our increasingly isolated world, this fundamental human need is often overlooked.

In a world that often values productivity over presence, the simple gifts of time and touch can be gentle acts of self-care and connection.

So slow down, reach out, and nurture the relationships that truly matter, starting with yourself! You might be surprised by the ripples of calm, joy, and fulfilment that follow.

Consciously make time and gentle touch a priority, to cultivate more meaningful relationships, rediscover the joy in the everyday and dare to be the change you want to see in your organisation, family, community and life!

The Gift of Time and Touch Matters

• Bring calm and relief to a stressed or anxious friend, colleague or yourself
• Share a special time between parents and children
• Communicate when you can’t find words

Learn to Give a Hand Massage

This two-and-a-half-hour workshop will provide you with the foundational skills to share the gift of gentle touch with family and friends. It is an introductory exploration of the energy of gentleness, a moment of self-care and it will give you the confidence to safely offer your presence and a hand massage to people you know. No previous experience is necessary.

Get in Touch Today – mathilde@atouchofgentleness.org – 07947 319 362

Words: Mathilde Barbier – DareToBeTheChangeToday

The post The Gift of Time and Touch appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Did you know that cycling could be a powerful tool for your mind? The link between exercise and mental health is well established, but finding the right activity for you is key in building motivation to get out there.

Below, we’ve explored the scientific evidence behind cycling’s mental health benefits and inspire you to improve your wellbeing on two wheels.

1. The mind-body connection

Like many other types of sport, cycling promotes the release of endorphins – the chemicals known as ‘happy hormones’ – from the brain. Endorphins not only boost our mood but can reduce the perception of pain too. Endurance athletes tie this to the ‘runner’s high’, a sense of euphoria associated with finishing a good workout.

Regular cycling naturally contributes to consistent endorphin release, boosting mood and reducing negative symptoms of mental health conditions like generalised anxiety disorder. And since bikes need to be pedalled with a rhythmic motion, this can give a calming, therapeutic effect too. 

2. Stress reduction

One of the biggest benefits for any cyclists’ mental health is lower stress!

The physical mechanics behind cycling demand concentration and coordination, making it impossible to worry about daily life and work commitments. Furthermore, being out in nature while cycling can enhance feelings of relaxation and peace. 

Studies show that access to green space directly benefits mental health, with lower rates of depression in areas with lots of natural, open areas. Getting outside on your bike could take you to so many different places, with new routes unearthing diverse terrain and beautiful views too. 

3. Building community

Cycling is a fantastic way to connect with like-minded people. 

Even if you’re not a social butterfly by nature, joining cycling clubs and heading out on social rides can offer connection and a sense of belonging. If you prefer offroad riding, you could challenge yourself with a gravel bike and tackle rocky, hilly terrain on all-day adventures with friends. For speedy pursuits with the all-important café stop, you’ll find your group in road riding. 

Chats on two wheels – whether they’re with long-time friends or newer club members – can feel so much easier and more meaningful than conversations in bars or restaurants.

4. Improved focus

Largely thanks to the endorphins released during and after a bike ride, cycling sharpens our cognitive function too. Regular aerobic exercise of any kind is linked to enhanced memory, improved concentration, and better problem-solving skills too.

For anyone who struggles with their attention or productivity during everyday tasks, cycling makes a fantastic way to channel energy and creativity. It gives you clear downtime away from screens, social media, and the stressors of working life. 

5. Confidence boosting

Whether you’re cycling alone or in a group, doing it regularly can give your confidence and self-esteem a big boost. From achieving personal distance milestones to setting personal bests with friends, cycling makes it easy to feel a strong sense of accomplishment.

This can easily translate into other areas of your life, too. Even though cycling might turn into your main motivation, your newfound confidence will help you to tackle other challenges and set higher goals. 

Cycling for your health

Ready to start feeling better at home and at work? It’s never been a better time to pedal your way towards a renewed and peaceful state of mind. Simply choose best bike within your budget and get ready to make lifelong friends and lasting memories. 

The post How Cycling is Revolutionising Mental Wellbeing appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Health disparities persist in many communities, reflecting inequalities in access to care, quality of services, and overall health outcomes. Addressing these disparities requires a multifaceted approach that includes policy changes, community engagement, and targeted interventions. Achieving health equity means ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to attain their highest level of health. This article explores strategies for promoting equitable community health, highlighting the importance of education, policy, and grassroots efforts. By understanding and implementing these strategies, communities can work towards reducing health disparities and improving the well-being of all their members.

Education and Awareness

Education and awareness are fundamental to addressing health disparities. Increasing knowledge about health issues, preventive measures, and available resources empowers individuals to take control of their health. Community health education programs can focus on topics such as nutrition, exercise, mental health, and chronic disease management. Schools, workplaces, and community centers can serve as venues for disseminating information. Additionally, leveraging social media and local media outlets can amplify the reach of health education campaigns. Educating the community creates a foundation for informed decision-making and proactive health behaviors, ultimately contributing to the reduction of health disparities.

Training and Workforce Development

Training a diverse and culturally competent healthcare workforce is crucial for addressing health disparities. Community health masters programs play a significant role in preparing professionals who understand the unique needs of diverse populations. These programs equip students with the skills to design and implement effective health interventions tailored to specific communities. By fostering a workforce that reflects and understands the communities they serve, healthcare systems can provide more equitable and effective care.

Community Engagement

Engaging the community in health initiatives ensures that interventions are relevant and culturally sensitive. Community members possess valuable insights into the specific health challenges and needs of their area. Involving them in the planning and implementation of health programs fosters trust and cooperation. Techniques for community engagement include forming advisory boards, conducting surveys, and hosting town hall meetings. By actively involving residents, healthcare providers can design programs that are more likely to succeed and resonate with the community. This collaborative approach also empowers individuals to take an active role in improving their health outcomes.

Policy Advocacy

Policy changes are essential for addressing systemic health disparities. Advocating for policies that promote health equity can lead to significant improvements in access to care and health outcomes. This includes pushing for expanded healthcare coverage, improved funding for community health programs, and the elimination of discriminatory practices. Engaging with local, state, and federal policymakers to advocate for health equity ensures that the needs of underserved populations are considered in legislative decisions. Grassroots advocacy, supported by robust data and compelling stories, can influence policy changes that address the root causes of health disparities.

Access to Healthcare Services

Improving access to healthcare services is a critical step in reducing health disparities. This involves ensuring that healthcare facilities are available, affordable, and culturally competent. Strategies include expanding community health centers, increasing the availability of mobile clinics, and offering telehealth services. Transportation assistance and flexible clinic hours can also make healthcare more accessible. Addressing barriers such as language differences and financial constraints ensures that all community members can receive the care they need. By making healthcare services more accessible, communities can improve health outcomes and reduce disparities.

Data Collection and Analysis

Accurate data collection and analysis are essential for identifying health disparities and measuring the impact of interventions. Data helps healthcare providers and policymakers understand the extent of disparities and the specific needs of different populations. This information can be used to allocate resources effectively and design targeted programs. Regular surveys, health assessments, and the use of electronic health records can provide valuable data. It is important to ensure that data collection methods are inclusive and representative of the community’s diversity. By utilizing data, communities can track progress and make informed decisions to enhance health equity.

Culturally Sensitive Care

Providing culturally sensitive care improves patient trust and satisfaction, leading to better health outcomes. Healthcare providers must understand and respect the cultural, linguistic, and social backgrounds of their patients. Training programs that focus on cultural competence can equip healthcare workers with the necessary skills. Additionally, employing a diverse workforce that reflects the community can bridge cultural gaps. Culturally sensitive care includes offering translation services, respecting traditional health practices, and addressing cultural stigmas related to health issues. This approach ensures that all patients feel understood and respected, fostering a more inclusive healthcare environment.

Addressing Social Determinants of Health

Social determinants of health, such as income, education, housing, and environment, significantly impact health outcomes. Addressing these factors is crucial for achieving health equity. Initiatives that focus on improving living conditions, providing educational opportunities, and ensuring safe environments can reduce health disparities. Collaborative efforts involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies can address these social determinants. By tackling the root causes of health disparities, communities can create supportive environments that promote overall well-being.

Mental Health Services

Access to mental health services is a critical component of community health. Mental health issues often go untreated in underserved populations due to stigma, lack of awareness, and limited resources. Expanding mental health services, integrating them into primary care, and promoting mental health awareness can address these barriers. Community outreach programs and peer support groups can provide additional support. Ensuring that mental health services are culturally sensitive and accessible helps reduce disparities in mental health care and improves overall community health.

Partnerships and Collaboration

Forming partnerships and collaborations enhances the effectiveness of health initiatives. By working together, healthcare providers, community organizations, businesses, and government agencies can pool resources and expertise. Collaborative efforts can address complex health issues more comprehensively. For example, partnerships can facilitate health education programs, vaccination drives, and access to nutritious food. Building strong networks ensures that health initiatives are sustainable and have a broader reach. Partnerships also foster a sense of community and shared responsibility in promoting health equity.

Conclusion

Addressing health disparities requires a holistic approach that includes education, workforce development, community engagement, policy advocacy, improved access to services, data collection, culturally sensitive care, addressing social determinants of health, mental health services, and partnerships. Each of these strategies plays a crucial role in promoting equitable community health. By implementing these measures, communities can work towards eliminating health disparities and ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to achieve their highest level of health. Committing to these strategies fosters a healthier, more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.

The post Addressing Health Disparities: Strategies for Equitable Community Health appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

A wide array of organisations exist within the healthcare sector. While each serves a different purpose, there’s a requirement across the board to practice effective financial management. But why is this so important? Here are some of the key reasons.

Ensuring quality patient care

Healthcare providers have a duty of care. They exist to help people with their health, whether that’s through dentistry or surgical procedures. Many patients rely on particular services, so remaining financially stable is essential to fulfil this purpose.

With the right financial management, organisations can invest in innovative technology and specialist staff to upgrade the services they provide. As a result, the quality of care patients receive will improve.

Sustainability and growth

As the industry adapts and economic conditions shift, organisations need to remain stable and have a long-term growth plan. It may be that operations teams need to simplify internal processes or reduce the amount of waste created. Where feasible, automation can be used to ensure the organisation always remains compliant. Otherwise, there’s a risk of hefty fines or reputational damage. Through frequent financial reviews, data-backed decisions can be made with confidence.

However, this requires continuous financial monitoring, which can put pressure on internal teams. By enlisting the help of healthcare accountants, risks and opportunities can be spotted. The earlier teams spot the potential for growth, the sooner a strategy can be pulled together to take advantage of this.

The same logic applies when looking out for threats. If teams see something sooner rather than later, a plan can be formed to mitigate these with plenty of notice. It’s all about keeping a finger on the pulse.

Regulatory compliance

Compliance is essential in the healthcare industry – and there are strict regulations in place to keep companies accountable.

Regularly monitoring finances and ensuring compliance goes hand-in-hand. Having a clear overview of an organisation and how it runs means organisations are more likely to spot issues before they progress. Many of the regulations put in place are there to improve transparency across workplaces and with patients. There are also privacy-related regulations in place that cover GDPR and other issues surrounding patient privacy and confidentiality.

Regulations frequently change, so staying up to date and adjusting internal operations accordingly is a must. This is where having intelligent technology to assist with the operations of an organisation can help. Meanwhile, updating staff on any changes and issuing thorough training is a big part of overall compliance.

While staying compliant is important from a legal point of view, it’s also important from an ethical point of view, allowing patients’ wellbeing to be put first.

The post Why companies in the healthcare sector need to monitor finances appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Over the last 18 years, I have had the privilege of interviewing countless individuals who radiate a profound inner light. These are the people whose presence alone can inspire and uplift you, urging you to be the best version of yourself. Sitting across from Liana Cornell was like being in the presence of an ethereal being. Her soft-spoken nature, the warmth in her eyes, and the love that seemed to emanate from her every word made this interview one of the most memorable. As we discussed her new album, Rising, and the personal healing journey that shaped it, I was reminded of the incredible power of resilience and the beauty of turning pain into art.

Liana Cornell is a multi-faceted artist whose highly anticipated album, Rising, is set to release on October 31st, coinciding with the Celtic New Year. I was fortunate enough to hear the first track, “Anam Cara” (Soul Friend), ahead of our interview. The song, released in August, left me captivated by its depth and beauty. Inspired by healing frequencies that align with the chakras, Liana’s music is a reflection of her own journey through illness and grief, particularly the loss of her father, who has continued to guide her through this transformative process.

Sitting across from Liana, it was hard to reconcile the vibrant, healthy woman before me with the story of her diagnosis with a condition—a condition she was told she would live with for the rest of her life. Yet, Liana’s belief and determination have proven that when you put your mind to something, anything is possible. She is well on her way to full recovery, a journey she attributes to her upbringing in Byron Bay, surrounded by healers and mystics who gave her the confidence and knowledge to overcome her diagnosis.

A Healing Journey Begins

“I come from a line of women who are very into herbalism and homeopathy,” Liana began, reflecting on her childhood. “I also grew up with a lot of nature-based practices around, like Wicca and Celtic lineage, and things like that. I am from Byron Bay, which, when I was growing up, was like a hotspot of all different wellbeing modalities. I started meditating and practicing yoga when I was really young.”

Byron Bay, known for its strong spiritual and healing energy, played a significant role in shaping Liana’s approach to health and wellness. “It’s a very feminine, healing energy,” she explained. “It’s where the rainforest meets the ocean, and it’s really special. Growing up in that environment, you experience things that others may not. I would see people meditating in the middle of the street, and there was a lot of gratitude practice and things like that.”

Her wellness journey, deeply intertwined with her spiritual journey, took on new urgency when she was diagnosed with a disease in her 20s. “I brought into practice all the things I had learned growing up—through food, meditation,” Liana said. “I became a Reiki healer, then a Reiki master, which, along with other holistic practices, and within three months, helped me manage my condition in ways I hadn’t expected, as told I would have for the rest of my life. I think it was very stress-related too.”

Liana’s story is a testament to the power of holistic healing. “My experience with the condition has been unique, and I’ve been fortunate to find ways that significantly improved my quality of life.” she continued. “I think that not only having a really good relationship with food, growing my own food, and all the things I had learned, like the work of Louise Hay, it helped me to see the patterns in my illness and how they were all connected emotionally, and helping me finding the root cause.”

The Healing Power of Music

As Liana continued her journey of self-healing, she began to explore the healing frequencies of music. This exploration eventually led to the creation of her album Rising, which transports listeners on a journey through the seven chakras. Each track created to enhance relaxation and mental wellbeing, utilising scientifically proven frequencies such as 396 Hz, 417 Hz, and 528 Hz to promote mindfulness and healing.

“I started working on this album, and as I had finished recording the first song, which is the first single, I received the news that my father was dying,” Liana shared. “I spent the next four hours singing to him and telling him stories, kind of guiding him into the next realm. The rest of the album really took on a deeply healing journey.”

What struck me most about Liana’s music is its accessibility. “What people hear when they listen to it doesn’t necessarily sound like healing music,” she explained. “I wanted it to be multi-genre to reach different people who wouldn’t necessarily listen to healing music.”

Indeed, when I first listened to “Anam Cara,” I expected it to sound like New Age music. Instead, it was the type of music I could easily imagine playing on the radio alongside mainstream artists. Liana’s goal was to make healing music available and accessible to people who may not have considered listening to it before.

“The album was really allowing me to hold on to something through the healing process,” she said. “Music is one of the most powerful tools that we have. The frequencies are based off Gregorian chants from the 1500s, and in modern day, they’ve been linked to chakra points.”

Liana believes that the world is ready for this type of music. “Previously, it’s been seen as a bit ‘woo-woo,’ but now there are more and more studies coming out showing the benefits of certain types of music and sound frequencies to heal ourselves on a cellular level,” she said.

Music as a Tool for Healing and Connection

Liana’s music is a reflection of her personal journey, and it’s clear that she has poured her heart and soul into this album. “Anam Cara” is aligned with the heart chakra and is a track very close to her own heart. “The whole song is about that longing for love outside but then also finding love within, which I think is kind of the key to give ourselves self-love,” she said. “I love self-love, I’m really into it.”

Another single on the album is inspired by Taoist philosophy, which Liana studied during the lockdown.“I studied beneath a Zen Buddhist called Hung Tran, and an Ordained Taoist Monk called David from Wu Wei Wisdom. It really helped me with the immense grief I was carrying,” she said. “like many people during that time, I faced numerous challenges, which helped me connect more deeply with my own healing journey and with others going through similar experiences.

Inspired by Zen Buddhism, one of the album’s tracks is about recognising that you’re not the weather, but the actual thing experiencing the weather. “So you’re not the clouds, but you’re the sky; you’re not the waves, but you’re the ocean. Anytime I felt these big emotions coming through, I was able to kind of observe myself, still experience it, but observe myself rather than get lost in it.”

This philosophy helped Liana navigate some of the most challenging experiences of her life. “It was just one thing after another—and then realising that for me and my own belief system, I’d signed up for these things and was able to experience them because I was strong enough and capable. Then, to be able to take the things that I’ve learned and offer them to people who are also going through those experiences, for me, is like the gold out of it.”

A New Chapter in Cornwall

Liana’s journey has taken her far from her roots in Byron Bay, and she is currently in Cornwall. I was curious about how her mystical, Wiccan lifestyle might fit in with her new neighbours. “Being in Cornwall amongst different faiths and religions as introduced me to diverse perspectives, and I cherish the opportunity to learn from and connect with my new community,” she said.

What Liana has discovered is that, despite our differences, we all have the same fundamental desires: “We all want access to healthcare, education, food, community and to feel safe, with a roof over our heads. I feel like this is the thing to focus on and looking at how we can provide those solutions. And so I think that doing this, so much can be gained.”

She is a big believer in focusing on the good. “I think it’s really important to recognise the inequalities and the things that need to be solved, but I also think it’s good to focus on all the good stuff and believe in making what we deem impossible, possible”

Liana’s journey from actress to musician has been one of courage and determination. “People thought I was nuts when I wanted to record an album because I was an actor,” she admitted. “But just to be able to go and do it because you never know—there might only be one person who connects to it, but if it helps them blossom in their own way, that would be wonderful.”

Her message to others is clear: “I believe that many people have beautiful ideas waiting to be realised. I encourage you to pursue them, as the journey can be incredibly nourishing and rewarding. Take the leap because it just is the most nourishing process for me and for other people. So I think that’s probably the kind of thing that I feel most passionately about from this experience.”

A Musical Offering to the World

As I wrapped up my interview with Liana, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of admiration for her journey. She has taken the pain and challenges of her life and transformed them into something beautiful—a gift of healing and connection through music. Rising is not just an album; it’s a testament to the power of self-love, resilience, and the healing power of art.

For those who listen to Liana Cornell’s music, it will undoubtedly be a journey—a journey through the chakras, through the frequencies that heal, and through the experiences that shape us. And in doing so, it may just inspire others to embark on their own journeys of healing and self-discovery.

Anam Cara is now available to stream on all major streaming platforms. Anam Cara is the third single from faery’s debut album, Rising, due for release late 2024

Listen Here

Discover www.lianacornell.com

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