Vikki St Leger is a Hypno-Psychotherapist, Vocal Performance Coach, and Transformational Mentor with over 35 years of experience helping artists, performers, and professionals realise their true potential. A certified hypnotherapist trained by the legendary Paul McKenna, she integrates counselling, hypno-psychotherapy, NLP, and performance coaching into her signature St Leger Method, a deeply compassionate, results-driven approach that empowers lasting growth. Based in Cornwall, she has worked with consultant surgeons, Olympic athletes, and international performers, all united by one goal, to become the best version of themselves. Vikki St Leger, Voice Coach & Transformational Mentor Introduce yourself. Could you tell us about yourself and your background, so we can get to know you better? Hi, I’m Vikki St Leger, a Hypno-Psychotherapist, Vocal Performance Coach, and Personal Development Mentor with over 35 years of experience helping high-performing individuals, elite professionals, and artists unlock their true potential. I’ve spent more than 30 years as an advocate for special needs and autism, specialising in autism behaviour and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). I’m deeply passionate about young people's mental health and have always stood for those who feel unseen. I naturally support the underdog and love helping others rise. Outside of my work, I’m endlessly inspired by Cornwall, where I live. I love walking the coast, exploring sacred sites, and visiting holy wells, Megalithic and Neolithic places filled with history and energy. I’m currently writing an album and several books inspired by Cornwall’s landscape and heritage, blending its beauty with my love of storytelling through music. I’m married to Baz St Leger, a music industry consultant, master drummer, negotiator, and HR consultant for major blue-chip companies. As a professional drummer, Baz has had the privilege of performing with many famous musicians, and his incredible teaching methods have inspired students for over 40 years. His ability to draw out the very best in every student, no matter their level, is something truly special. His teaching methods are the most efficacious. I’m also a proud mum to two wonderful boys and a very happy grandmother to four beautiful grandchildren. Spending time with my children and grandchildren brings me more joy than words could ever describe. The love I feel for them all is immeasurable and fills my heart every single day. There are no words big enough to describe this feeling! My lifelong passion is enabling people to become greater versions of themselves. When you love what you do and watch people transform before your eyes, it never feels like work. It feels like purpose. With your extensive background in the music industry and various fields like counselling, psychotherapy, and hypnotherapy, how do you integrate these diverse skills into your approach to vocal coaching and mentoring? With my background in music, counselling, psychotherapy, and hypnotherapy, I approach Vocal Performance Coaching holistically. Many clients come to me feeling vulnerable, lacking confidence, and struggling to find their voice, not just in singing but in life. To encourage growth, the right conditions have to exist. When clients are offered unconditional positive regard, a complete suspension of judgment, combined with congruence, empathy, and a deep understanding of music and the human voice, growth happens naturally. Once trust is established, clients feel safe enough to make mistakes, face their fears, and discover their true power. Vocal Performance Coaching is about taking the whole person into account, emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually. This approach, lived authentically rather than superficially, creates real and lasting transformation. Self-belief in the client is everything, and deep belief in their ability to succeed is paramount. Could you share some examples of the transformative experiences or successes that your students or clients have achieved through your mentorship? Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing remarkable transformations in my students and clients, many of whom have faced huge challenges. H, for example, was painfully shy, severely bullied, and found it difficult even to make eye contact. He was taking piano lessons with my husband, Baz, and through the St Leger Method, we helped him find his voice, both musically and personally. His confidence flourished, and two years later, after sharing videos online, he was personally invited by Little Mix to audition for a new boy band supporting their world tour. A’s story is equally powerful. She is autistic and had been taken out of school after experiencing severe bullying. She struggled with anxiety, self-harm, and depression, and had lost all will to live. I homeschooled her, and together we wrote two albums. Lyric writing became her therapy, and through our work, she began to heal. Today, she’s completing her university degree, a beautiful example of how creativity and belief can rebuild a life. M came to me lacking confidence and struggling to get lead roles in her local theatre group. With the help of the St Leger Method, she found her strength, identity, and voice, eventually going on to win The Voice and flourish as an artist. K is non-verbal but is able to sing beautifully. His story has touched millions worldwide. I’m currently writing his third album, and his videos continue to inspire countless people, especially those on the autism spectrum. Working with non-verbal individuals requires extraordinary skill, and this is where the St Leger Method truly shines. It reaches places words cannot. Mr A, an actor, had become stuck in smaller roles and couldn’t seem to break through. I wrote him a personalised hypnotherapy script focused on self-belief and visualising bigger opportunities. Shortly after, he landed a highly lucrative job worth tens of thousands. Sometimes, one powerful mindset shift can change everything. These are just a few of the hundreds of transformations I’ve witnessed. Every story reinforces my belief that when someone is supported, believed in, and given the right environment, extraordinary growth can happen. As an award-winning voice coach and mentor, what do you believe sets your approach apart from others in the field, and how do you tailor your methods to meet the unique needs of each student or client? What sets my approach apart is the depth of connection I create with every client. It’s not just about technique. It’s about truly understanding who they are and what’s holding them back. I work with the person as a whole, emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually, helping them release limiting beliefs and uncover their natural confidence and strength. Every client is unique, so my methods are always tailored to the individual. I create a safe, supportive environment where they can grow at their own pace. My aim is to help them rediscover or find their voice, not just as performers but as people. Through empathy, honesty, and an unwavering belief in their potential, I guide them through genuine personal transformation. With over 30 years of experience in the music industry, how have you seen the landscape of vocal coaching and mentorship evolve, and how do you stay ahead of these changes to ensure your clients receive the most relevant guidance and support? The landscape of Vocal Coaching has changed dramatically, especially with the rise of the internet. It’s now easy for anyone to call themselves a coach, even without the right training or experience. Sadly, many lack depth and understanding, and when you’re dealing with people’s mental health and confidence, that can be dangerous. I stay ahead by drawing on decades of hands-on experience, continuing my own learning, and maintaining a deep understanding of both vocal performance and personal development. My work is grounded in real expertise and ethics. The trust my clients place in me is sacred, and I take that responsibility very seriously. My focus is always on integrity, quality, and helping people grow into the best version of themselves, both on stage and in life. Tell us about your greatest career achievement so far. Being named runner-up for International Woman of the Year was an incredible honour, and having a student go on to win The Voice was another proud moment. But honestly, it’s the everyday breakthroughs that mean the most. There are too many achievements to count, but seeing people rise above adversity, find their confidence, and start living fully again is what drives me. Watching someone achieve what they once thought impossible is one of the greatest gifts you can give another human being, the belief that they can succeed. That’s when I know I’ve done my job well, and that feeling never gets old. Mic drop! Tell us about a pivotal moment in your life that brought you to where you are today. A pivotal moment in my life came when I survived 18 years of long-term domestic violence, which stripped away my self-worth and confidence. I had to rebuild from the ground up. Then I met Baz. He believed in me when I had stopped believing in myself. He encouraged me, challenged me, supported me, and helped me rediscover who I was. He has been my husband, my mentor, and my best friend for 21 years. I wouldn’t be doing what I do today without his unwavering belief. That is the true power of belief. Through the pain, I discovered something beautiful, there is magic in suffering. It gave me a depth of empathy and understanding that I now bring to every client I work with. It taught me how to help others find strength in their own pain and transform it into something powerful. That experience didn’t break me. It built me, and it’s why I do what I do today. How does hypnotherapy help singers and musicians overcome performance anxiety, and who is your ideal client? Hypnotherapy is incredibly powerful for singers and musicians because it works with the subconscious mind, the part that holds fear, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs. Performance anxiety rarely comes from a lack of skill. It comes from the mind’s fear of failure or judgment. Through hypnotherapy, I help clients release those fears, reframe their thinking, and perform with calm confidence. Performers often feel the pressure to be perfect, which can lead to anxiety and self-sabotage. Hypnotherapy helps quiet the internal noise and regulate the nervous system so they can perform with clarity, focus, and joy. Using my St Leger Method, which combines hypno-psychotherapy, NLP, and performance psychology, I guide clients to reach a state of flow where mind, body, and creativity work in harmony. When they reach that place, everything changes. My ideal clients are high-achieving individuals, artists, and performers who are ready to overcome fear and unlock their full potential. The best way to begin is with an initial consultation, where we explore goals and create a clear plan for growth and transformation. From there, we take it step by step, one session and one breakthrough at a time. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Vikki St Leger

Written by Tatjana Gaspar, Coach, Consultant & Author Tatjana Gaspar is a certified systemic coach and online trainer who uses methods that focus on clients’ individual goals, aiming to improve their business or life situation. She is also the CEO of the Latin American Chamber of Commerce in Switzerland, where she organizes events, hosts webinars, and is responsible for operational and financial issues. It happens to all of us. We apply for a job and get turned down, or we don’t even receive a reply. We post something on social media and receive almost no reaction, or we make someone an offer and they decline or show no interest. Rejection is as much a part of life as air and water. We experience it every day, sometimes in small doses, sometimes as a heavy blow. And even though we know it’s inevitable, it hits us every time right where it hurts. But why is that? Our deepest instinct: The need to belong Throughout our evolution, belonging was essential for survival. Being excluded from the group meant being left alone and facing danger. This pattern is deeply embedded in our subconscious mind. Apparently, our brain reacts to social rejection much like it does to physical pain. Studies have shown that the same brain areas light up when we feel rejected as when we experience a physical injury. This explains why even small dismissals can sting so deeply, our system reads danger, exclusion, or pain. But what was once a survival mechanism is nowadays often a false alarm. Our brain hasn’t fully caught up and doesn’t understand that we are no longer dependent on the approval of certain people or institutions to “survive.” Meet your inner voice Then comes the inner voice that interprets rejection as proof that we’re not enough, not talented enough. Not interesting enough. Not lovable enough. Any self-doubt is like the echo of earlier experiences from childhood, school, work, and relationships. Each rejection leaves a mark in our subconscious mind and further cements old, limiting beliefs. So, when someone says no to us in one way or another , we don’t just hear that one no, but the collective humming of all the nos we’ve ever received. And each rejection suddenly doesn’t feel like an isolated event, but an integral verdict on our worth. The wrong assumption: I am the problem The biggest mistake we can make is taking rejection personally. Most of the time, rejection doesn’t mean that we are the problem. It simply means something doesn’t fit. Maybe it was the wrong timing, target person(s), format, or energy. But our injured ego shouts, "See? I told you so!" And with that, we build our own roadblock, we pull back, censor ourselves, take fewer risks, and avoid situations where we could be hurt again. A perfect way to stop our self-empowerment! Simply feedback What if we saw rejection not as defeat, but as information, simply as feedback? Every no carries a message about needs, resonance, timing, strategy, or priorities. Maybe it tells us to refine our message, that we’re playing on the wrong field, or even protects us from choosing the wrong path. To deal with rejection gracefully and understand it as constructive feedback, we need emotional resilience. These three strategies can be helpful: 1. Practice self-compassion instead of self-criticism Instead of asking, "What’s wrong with me?" I ask, "What can I learn from this?" Self-compassion means treating yourself with the same kindness you would treat a good friend or your best client. It allows you to grow without judging yourself. 2. Detach your self-worth from external reactions Other people’s opinions are not objective truths, but mirrors of their own values, fears, and preferences. When someone rejects you, they’re in fact not rejecting you as a person, but a version of your message as they understand it at a given moment. That’s why the most important thing is to keep your self-belief independent from external resonance and other people’s approval. 3. Build your rejection tolerance Rejection doesn't define who you are, but your response to it does. If you expose yourself regularly to small risks, share your creative ideas, reach out to other people, and try something new, you become more resilient. Each mini-rejection strengthens your emotional immune system and teaches you that you will overcome this. Conclusion The most powerful response to rejection is to believe in yourself anyway. Self-belief means being internally free and knowing, "I am enough, even if no one sees it right now. I will persevere, even if no one applauds." Of course, this isn't easy at first, because we all crave encouragement and recognition, but it gets significantly easier with continuous training and fine-tuning our message. The difference between those who give up and those who grow doesn’t lie in talent, but in the ability to endure rejection and use it as a touchstone and guide. Follow me on  Facebook , LinkedIn , and visit my website  for more info! Read more from Tatjana Gaspar Tatjana Gaspar, Coach, Consultant & Author Tatjana Gaspar is a certified systemic coach and online trainer who uses methods that focus on clients’ individual goals, aiming to improve their business or life situation. She is also the CEO of the Latin American Chamber of Commerce in Switzerland, where she organizes events, hosts webinars, and is responsible for operational and financial issues. Before coaching, she spent 20 years in international wealth management and leadership positions with different banks in Zurich. Initially, Tatjana obtained a degree in Hispanic and Russian literature and history from the University of Geneva. She is a firm believer in lifelong learning and is fluent in seven languages.

Born and raised in South Louisiana, Peyton Murphy built his career on hard work, consistency, and a simple belief in doing what’s right. After graduating from LSU in 1988 and earning his law degree from Tulane in 1991, he was admitted to practice law in both Louisiana and Connecticut. Two years later, he founded Murphy Law Firm in Baton Rouge, determined to fight for people who needed a strong advocate. For over 28 years, Peyton has led with integrity and resilience. He has earned record verdicts, including an $18.9 million judgment in a single-event case decided by the Louisiana Supreme Court. His firm has become known across the country for its readiness to go to trial and its track record in car accidents, wrongful death, product liability, and medical malpractice cases. Beyond the courtroom, Peyton believes leadership means showing up for the community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he organized mask and sanitizer giveaways across Baton Rouge, providing over 67,000 masks and thousands of meals to families and frontline workers. A lifelong sportsman and father of three daughters, Peyton spends his free time golfing, bow hunting, and fishing along Louisiana’s coast with his dog, Waylon. His philosophy is straightforward, success comes from preparation, patience, and helping others along the way. Learn more about his work here . Q&A: Peyton Murphy on leadership, law, and lessons learned Interview with Peyton Murphy You’ve been practicing law for nearly three decades. What first inspired you to become a lawyer?   Growing up in South Louisiana, I always knew I wanted to help people. I saw how tough life could be for ordinary families after an accident or workplace injury. I wanted to be someone they could trust to stand up for them. That goal never really changed. What were those early years like after you finished at Tulane?   After graduating, I clerked for a state district judge, which was an incredible education in how courts actually work. Then I joined an insurance defense firm. That job gave me perspective, it showed me how the other side thinks. By 1993, I decided it was time to start my own practice, one focused on people, not corporations. That’s how Murphy Law Firm began. You’ve earned record verdicts in Louisiana. What stands out about those experiences?   The $18.9 million verdict after nearly a three-week trial still stands out. The offer before trial was just over four million, but we knew the case was worth much more. We fought hard, and justice was served. That case became one of the largest single-event verdicts ever decided by the Louisiana Supreme Court. Another one, a $758,000 verdict for a shoulder joint injury, was also a proud moment. It wasn’t about the number, it was about standing by a client when others wouldn’t. How would you describe your approach to law?   Common sense, patience, and the ability to listen. Legal work isn’t just about quoting laws, it’s about understanding people. You’ve got to know when to talk, when to listen, and when to keep quiet. I still write things down the old-fashioned way. Short-term goals keep me focused, long-term ones give me direction. How do you keep your team motivated at Murphy Law Firm?   We treat every case as if it’s going to trial. Preparation is everything. I tell my team, “If you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready.” That mindset builds confidence. We also make time to talk about the “why”, why we do this work, why it matters to real people. That’s what keeps us grounded. You’re known for your community work, especially during the pandemic. What drove that effort?   When COVID hit, we saw how many people were struggling. I wanted to help however I could. It started with a simple mask giveaway at our office. Then people began lining up, and it turned into something much bigger. We ended up giving away over 67,000 masks, 100 gallons of hand sanitizer, and thousands of boxes of food. It showed me how much good can happen when you just start. What has been your biggest lesson from nearly thirty years of practice?   Consistency beats everything else. You don’t have to be the loudest or the smartest, you just have to show up, keep learning, and do the right thing, even when no one’s watching. I’ve learned a lot from clients, especially the ones who trusted me in difficult times. How do you balance work and personal life?   It’s taken practice. If I stretch myself too thin, it shows up in my work. I make sure there’s time for my daughters and the things that keep me centered, fishing, golf, and spending time outdoors. Balance doesn’t mean equal time, it means knowing what deserves your attention at any given moment. Looking ahead, how do you see your role evolving in the legal community?   I want to keep building trust. That means mentoring younger lawyers, being involved in the Baton Rouge Bar Association, and giving back to the community. Law isn’t static, it changes with people and culture. My job is to stay curious, keep learning, and make sure our firm continues to stand for fairness and integrity. What advice would you give to young lawyers starting out?   Don’t overcomplicate things. Focus on preparation, communication, and integrity. Write things down. Learn from mentors, but don’t try to copy them. And never forget that behind every file is a person who’s counting on you.

London, UK – October 27, 2025 – Meditate Into Prosperity, founded by meditation teacher, personal growth coach, and former Oxford research scientist Jingying Xu (PhD, DipBSoM), proudly announces the launch of its flagship program: A Meditation Album for Inner Freedom, a 15-day video-based experience designed to help high achievers align their mind, emotions, and energy with their vision, purpose, and daily performance, all in just five minutes a day. Built on 18 years of personal practice and academic research, the album offers a carefully curated sequence of 15 immersive video meditations, each 5 minutes long. Combining scientific insight, sound artistry, and visual serenity, the album delivers not only effectiveness but also a sensorial experience that helps professionals pause, reset, and realign with clarity and intention. Each track offers a distinct practice, including  breath awareness, grounding, mantra, five senses, visualisation, and gratitude,  allowing participants to explore diverse approaches and discover what resonates most. The experience is supported by a Bonus Practice Companion featuring neuroscience-based guidance, daily focus words, gentle self-reflection prompts, and a playful “bubble tea star tracker” hand-drawn by Jingying’s 8-year-old daughter. “I created this album for high performers who value focus, self-mastery, and mental clarity,” said Jingying Xu, PhD, founder of Meditate Into Prosperity and certified Level 3 meditation teacher. “If you have time to listen to a song, you have time to return to your centre. Meditation isn’t a retreat from success, it’s how we strengthen the foundation we build it on.” The creation of this album is deeply rooted in Jingying’s lived experience. In recent years, she has simultaneously raised two young children, navigated a divorce involving eight court hearings across 20 months, transitioned from her research position at the University of Oxford, and built her own healing-focused business. Through it all, her consistent daily meditation practice, short, intentional, and deeply grounding, allowed her to stay aligned with her goals, focused on her vision, and anchored in clarity and courage. This is not just a course she teaches, it’s the same practice that sustained her most pivotal transformations. What people are already saying about the album: “I’ve only just started the course, and already it’s made a real difference. Life gets so noisy sometimes, and these meditations create a warm, welcoming space that helps me slow down, breathe, and reconnect with myself. I really like that the sessions are just 5 minutes long. With the lovely videos and calming music, they’re easy to fit into my day and have quickly become a highlight!” – Carla Fontan, Teacher, United Kingdom The Meditation Album for Inner Freedom is available globally at a special launch price of £17 (regular £87) until October 31, 2025. It includes a certificate of completion from a certified Level 3 teacher of the British School of Meditation. Learn more or begin your journey here . For organisations and leadership teams, Jingying offers tailored mindfulness workshops, executive presence training, and personal growth coaching, integrating meditation, energy healing, and conscious self-leadership. About Meditate Into Prosperity Meditate Into Prosperity is a UK-based platform offering meditation, emotional healing, and self-leadership tools for high-performing individuals. Founded in January 2024 by Jingying Xu, PhD, certified meditation teacher, energy healing practitioner, and former University of Oxford research scientist, the platform supports professionals and leaders across industries in cultivating focus, resilience, and clarity from within. Slogan: Transforming Inner Power into Outward Presence Media contact Jingying Xu, PhD Founder, Meditate Into Prosperity Email Website Instagram LinkedIn Facebook

Written by Léké Adebayo, Strategic Consultant & Coach Léké Adebayo is an experienced operator in strategic engagement, outcome-based communications, and the creative arts. He has acted in numerous UK/US productions over the years, and his two feature film screenplays are currently at early stages of production development. Diversity isn’t a threat, it’s a superpower that fuels innovation, collaboration, and progress. In a world quick to polarize, this article reminds us that inclusion isn’t about ideology but about bringing unique minds together to create lasting, positive change. Discover how true diversity drives growth, strengthens leadership, and transforms workplaces and communities alike. So many different folklores and schools of thought applaud and venerate diversity: "Yin and Yang” (Chinese philosophy) “Two Heads Are Better Than One” (popular Western saying) “If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together” (African proverb) “A lot of different flowers make a bouquet” (Muslim origin quote) “All humans are created in the image of God” (a principle of Judaism) “Diversity, the art of thinking independently, together” (Malcolm Forbes) “A diverse mix of voices leads to better discussions, decisions, and outcomes for everyone” (Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Alphabet) “Companies that embrace diversity and inclusion in all aspects of their business statistically outperform their peers” (Josh Bersin) “Diversity creates change, which is the engine for innovation” (Chad E. Foster). We grew up with some of these sayings. We exclaim them on autopilot. They have even become a kind of mantra. Yet here we are, 25 years into the latest century, the most advanced and innovative ever known in history, and society stands ready to cut off its nose to spite its face to throw the baby out with the bathwater. What this article is about and what it is not about This article is not concerned with the contentious debate surrounding diversity as enunciated by political actors and culture vultures with their ideologies and agendas. Rather, it will pertain more to the idea of bringing people together around the proper concept of diversity. So, let’s go back to basics and first principles. What is diversity? Diversity is the reality of a wide variety of differences among people (genders, ethnicities, faiths, sexual orientations, disabilities, etc), with respect to individuals who have their own distinctive and singular thoughts, mindsets, and beliefs. It also refers to the acts of identifying, respecting, and appreciating these differences, which can enhance both societal culture and organizations by congregating various talents, professional skills, and life experiences. And inclusion? Inclusion is about bringing diverse people into proverbial and real rooms where “stuff happens”, allowing them to be themselves so that they can feel valued and can contribute in psychological safety to the greater good. Superficial diversity Diversity for the sake of diversity does not ultimately serve that greater good. It smacks of leadership by rote pushed down from the top onto society/employees to satisfy tick-box exercises. People tend to see through these types of shibboleths and thus treat them with the contempt they may or may not deserve. Diversity and its link to change management Visionary leadership (on the other hand) aligns diversity with change management. It achieves this by requesting and then amalgamating a broad range of perspectives and ideas that lead to enhanced decision-making, greater innovation, increased adaptability, and more dynamic solutions. An inclusive environment is crucial for inculcating these benefits, as it ensures workers feel sufficiently empowered to contribute, whilst reducing resistance to change and fostering greater employee engagement and commitment to the embedding of innovative practices around diversity. 4 data points that demonstrate why diversity is important According to McKinsey , workforces that are both diverse and inclusive have 12% higher employee productivity, are upwards 19% on staff productivity, have 57% better team collaboration and are 42% higher on team commitment. Grant Thornton estimated that financial consequences of having male only boards was approximately $655 billion for over 1,000 companies across three markets (US, UK, India). Deloitte identified an 80% improvement in business performance when levels of diversity and inclusion were high. The Peterson Institute (in a global study) discovered that having just 30% female representation on boards can increase net profits by 6%. “Epic” as a slogan (every person influences culture) The term was coined in diversity discourse by Charlotte Sweeney and the late Fleur Bothwick (authors of the seminal book INCLUSIVE LEADERSHIP) .   The premise is that every individual is unique with a different perspective based on influences such as “life experiences, culture, learning styles, personality type, and education.” So, when an individual joins a company, an organisation, or any environment, he or she brings with them the full force of that uniqueness, thus amplifying the culture and, in turn, this can snowball into sustainable change.   Consequently,   optimal change may well flow from different directions. From the top, as handed down by leaders inculcating significant behavioural patterns onto their troops, and from the bottom as an incremental groundswell cascades upwards (both methodologies operating in concert to make the transformation as impactful as possible). 5 actions to improve diversity in the workplace Voluntary rather than compulsory diversity training for leaders and managers: Research has shown that compulsory training does not actually improve diversity. It may have the opposite effect of instituting more bias into the system, thus defeating the purpose of the exercise. Voluntary regimes whereby participants attend out of free will are more likely to embed positive and sustainable behaviour. College recruitment programs : Data figures demonstrate that this approach improves figures for diversity in the workplace. Why? Because the message is more positive and uplifting. It is about empowering managers rather than seemingly penalizing them. Mentoring/Sponsoring: The benefits of mentoring are incalculable. A mentor can be the source of much-needed advice and guidance. They can also be repositories of valuable insider information about courses and projects that help their charges develop skills and obtain much-needed visibility in any organization, leading to potential promotion. Self-managed teams : These are teams in which people from diverse groups work together regularly in different functions. This tends to have the effect of reducing bias across the board because participants get to see each other as equals, all engaged in a common purpose. Corporate diversity taskforces : These are special divisions in workforces comprising different sections of society, including underrepresented groups. The advantage of such diverse mini groups (according to research) is to instil an accountability that might not have existed had the group been more homogenous. In other words, human beings tend to be on their best behaviour when they know they are being scrutinized. Final takeaways Diversity is not about divisive ideology, but rather about practical benefits for all. Diversity should be engaged with intentionality rather than superficiality. Ensure that measurable data about the positives of diversity is provided to stakeholders. Everyone has a stake in diversity, including leaders, managers, and juniors in all workforces and people from all sections of society.  Conclusion It is, perhaps, fitting to conclude with the words of two giants of history who best espoused the spirit of diversity. “I do not wish my house to be walled on all sides and my windows stuffed. I want the cultures of all lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible.” (Mahatma Gandhi) “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” (Martin Luther King) Follow me on LinkedIn  and visit my website  for more info! Read more from Léké Adebayo Léké Adebayo , Strategic Consultant & Coach Léké Adebayo is an experienced operator in strategic engagement, outcome-based communications, and the creative arts. Whilst he enjoyed the rigour and discipline of his academic legal studies, his passion now is to utilize his diverse skills and experience to ensure that Africa can become the best it can be. By way of development, investment, collaboration, and partnership, Leke hopes the 21st century will truly bring together the Global North and the Global South.

Written by Cristina Guida La Licata, People-Focused Consultant | Trainer | Author Strategic. Purpose-Driven. People-Centric. Cristina Guida La Licata is a trusted marketing and communications consultant, a certified brain profiler, trainer, and published author, helping brands, retailers and individuals drive performance through human-centered culture, behavioral transformation, and aligned strategy. In a business world ruled by KPIs and constant pressure to perform, one truth stands out. Organizations don’t grow unless people do. Behind every thriving team and visionary leader lies a deep understanding of both how people think and how they feel. Emotional intelligence (EQ) and cognitive insights together form a new lens for performance, one that bridges logic and emotion, strategy and empathy. They’re not just tools, they’re catalysts for transformation. The invisible drivers of performance Metrics matter, but they only tell part of the story. What truly separates good teams from extraordinary ones is often invisible. The emotional awareness and cognitive clarity that guide behavior, decision-making, and connection. When leaders develop these skills, they don’t just improve results, they create cultures where people want to perform. That’s what I call sustainable excellence, success that endures because it’s built on human understanding. As a certified Six Seconds Brain Profiler, I help individuals and teams make sense of their internal world, turning awareness into measurable outcomes and lasting growth. What emotional intelligence and cognitive insights reveal Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions, both your own and others’. Cognitive insights reveal how your brain processes information, approaches problems, and makes decisions. Together, they form a precise map of your behavioral patterns, strengths, and potential blind spots. Imagine two project managers with identical experience. One thrives under pressure, communicates with clarity, and inspires confidence. The other struggles with uncertainty and avoids conflict. Their difference isn’t skill, it’s emotional and cognitive awareness. Profiling helps illuminate these patterns so people can grow from reaction to intention. Why EQ and cognitive data matter for organizations Many companies still evaluate talent based on hard skills alone. But technical competence doesn’t predict how people handle stress, ambiguity, or collaboration, the realities of modern work. By integrating EQ and cognitive profiling, organizations can: Align people with roles that match their natural strengths Prevent conflict and strengthen team communication Boost innovation by balancing analytical and creative thinking Make smarter leadership decisions with confidence and clarity The power of the brain profiler approach As a Six Seconds Brain Profiler, I translate emotional and cognitive data into strategies that drive both personal and organizational growth. Profiling is not about labeling, it’s about liberating potential. Through this process, leaders and teams can: Identify leadership potential and development areas with precision Reveal strengths that often go unnoticed Translate awareness into action and measurable results Accelerate performance far beyond traditional training The tangible benefits of EQ and cognitive profiling Enhanced self-awareness: See clearly how your mind and emotions shape every decision and interaction. Better leadership and teamwork: Understand others’ thinking styles to transform tension into collaboration. Higher engagement and retention: When people feel seen, understood, and aligned with their role, they stay motivated and loyal. Smarter strategic decisions: Leaders with emotional and cognitive clarity balance data and empathy and make better, more human decisions. Accelerated growth: Profiling pinpoints exactly where to focus for maximum impact, leading to faster, measurable growth. The future of work is human In the era of AI, automation, and data overload, the real differentiator is not more technology, it’s self-awareness. Emotional and cognitive profiling gives leaders and organizations the missing data they need most, 'the human kind'. When we understand how people think and feel, we create workplaces where both performance and well-being thrive, where excellence becomes not just a goal but a way of being. If you’re ready to unlock your emotional and cognitive potential, or elevate your team’s performance through human insight, book your Brain Profiling session here  today. Because when people grow, organizations flourish. Follow me on Instagram , LinkedIn , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Cristina Guida La Licata Cristina Guida La Licata, People-Focused Consultant | Trainer | Author Cristina Guida La Licata is a published author, Six Seconds Certified Brain Profiler, trainer, and marketing and communications consultant. With years of experience in luxury and premium automotive and lifestyle sectors, she helps brands elevate performance by blending heritage, innovation, and emotional connection. Having held key roles at Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, Lotus Cars, Abarth, and Jeep, Cristina specializes in marketing, communications, leadership, emotional intelligence, and exceptional client experiences. She empowers individuals and organizations to embrace change, lead authentically, and cultivate meaningful human connections, turning insights into impactful results.

Lana Duncan-Hartgraves is an author, psychic medium, animal communicator, hypnotist, and Reiki master who integrates spirituality into daily life. Through her books, the 5D Pioneer podcast, retreats, and readings, she helps others achieve higher consciousness and healing. On her hobby farm in Wisconsin, she cultivates gardens, raises animals, and is developing an equine therapy and rescue center, creating a sanctuary where people and horses can heal together. Lana Duncan-Hartgraves, Master Psychic Medium/Lifecoach Who is Lana Duncan-Hartgraves? Introduce yourself, your hobbies, your favorites, you at home and in business. Tell us something interesting about yourself. I am a Wisconsin-born visionary whose life beautifully blends art, spirit, and nature. As a lifelong teacher and creator, I spent 31 years inspiring others through art before fully embracing my soul’s calling as a healer and intuitive guide. On my serene hobby farm, surrounded by animals and the rhythms of the earth, I practice Reiki and Sound Healing, Hypnosis, Herbalism, and Akashic Record work. I weave my gifts as a psychic medium, Qi Gong–infused yoga instructor, and animal communicator into a life devoted to connection and healing. I am a published author of Memoirs of an Accidental Psychic. I continue my spiritual and academic journey by pursuing an Associate’s in Herbalism and a Ph.D. in Metaphysical Counseling, proving that true wisdom is ever-growing, ever-evolving, and always guided by the heart. What makes your approach to intuition, life coaching, and healing distinct from others in your field? I have conducted approximately 100,000 readings and hold a Master's degree in Special Education with a concentration in Psychology. For two years, I worked as a diagnostician, where I identified conditions such as ADHD, learning disabilities, and autism. Additionally, I have a minor in Theater, which has made me comfortable speaking in front of audiences. I also have some experience with stand-up comedy. I am passionate about education and consider myself a lifelong learner. Can you describe a transformation you’ve helped a client achieve that still inspires you today? I believe some of my best stories come from past life regression and progression. In one session, my client went forward instead of backward in time. She was able to see the ascension we are currently experiencing, getting a glimpse of the other side. She was speechless at the beauty she witnessed. It felt as though she was actually seeing the other side, and she said that everything made sense to her now. She couldn't get over the experience and felt "connected" to every living thing, realizing that we are all one. As a result, she now leads her life differently, savoring the little things and finding joy in everything around her. How do you combine your skills in clairvoyance, Reiki, hypnosis, and holistic coaching in a single session? When I conduct a reading, I begin by asking, “How can I help you?” and allow the individual to guide the session to ensure a personalized and meaningful experience. I typically start with mediumship, focusing on connecting with and identifying their spirit guide, and as an evidential medium, I provide verifiable details such as names, places, and descriptions of those who come through. This approach fosters a calm and healing atmosphere where clients feel supported and at ease. My specialties include business and finance, with additional insight into love and health matters, though I always remind clients that I am not a medical professional. I believe in offering guidance rather than direction, maintaining strong ethical standards while empowering individuals to make their own choices. Many clients describe my sessions as warm, uplifting, and comparable to a conversation with a trusted friend. What should a first-time client expect when they reach out to you? When someone reaches out to me for the first time, we begin with a mediumship reading, a sacred opening between worlds. I invite forward those who wish to speak, and most often, beloved spirits or ancestral guides step into the light. At times, animal totems or spirit guides also reveal themselves, bringing their wisdom and protection. As an evidential medium, I share names, places, and moments in time, the details that confirm their presence and message. Each session is a gentle unveiling of truth, connection, and divine guidance. Visit my website for more info! Read more from Lana Duncan-Hartgraves

Written by Courtney Robinson, Leadership Branding Strategist & Style Mentor Courtney Robinson expertly aligns inner values with outward style, enhancing purpose-driven presence and image. She leverages over 20 years of corporate global leadership as an executive MBA, author, and speaker to transform the personal brands of high-level women through her Purpose Palette Persona framework. Have you ever reached the end of a year feeling like you did everything right, set the goals, tracked the metrics, hit the targets, yet still felt misaligned? You’re not alone. Many leaders chase success through structure but overlook the power of stillness. Reflection isn’t about pausing, it’s about positioning. It’s how we make sure our progress is actually taking us somewhere that matters. What is reflection in leadership Reflection is the art of turning experience into insight. It’s the practice of slowing down long enough to ask, “What’s working? What’s not? What does this mean for what comes next?” For leaders, reflection bridges the gap between what we do and who we’re becoming. When we stop viewing reflection as a reaction to failure and start seeing it as a rhythm for growth, our leadership deepens. It’s not about looking back, it’s about leading forward with clarity, integrity, and intention.[1] Why reflection matters more than goals Goals focus on results, reflection focuses on alignment. When you lead from reflection, you measure success not just by what you achieved but by who you became in the process. Research supports this shift. Studies show that leaders who engage in regular reflection improve self-awareness, decision-making, and emotional intelligence, key qualities that drive both influence and performance.[2][3] Reflection creates space to recognize patterns, challenge assumptions, and realign your actions with your values before you drift too far from your purpose. In a culture obsessed with speed, reflection is your secret advantage. It keeps your leadership anchored when everything around you demands motion. From goals to anchor words For years, I started each year with a list of goals, metrics, and milestones. This time, I chose one word, alignment. It wasn’t about doing more, it was about being truer. Every opportunity, decision, and partnership had to answer one question: Does this align with who I am, what I value, and what I’m called to build? That single anchor word transformed how I led, built my business, and showed up in my mission through Bold Faith Leadership Lab™ and Bold Identity Leadership™. Reflection shifted from tracking progress to tracking integrity.[4] It revealed when I was forcing, when I was drifting, and when I needed to stand still and trust what God had already positioned. How reflection strengthens your leadership rhythm Reflection isn’t only a journal entry. It’s a discipline of discernment, a leadership tool that connects identity to impact. When you apply it daily, even briefly, you begin to lead with more clarity and conviction.[5] Here’s how that rhythm can look: Review what happened: What choices defined your day or week? Re-evaluate: Were those choices aligned with your values and priorities? Realign: What minor adjustment will bring you closer to your anchor word? These micro-moments of awareness are where true leadership maturity develops. They bridge identity, presence, strategy, and communication, the pillars of the Bold Identity Method™, and turn reflection into forward momentum. Reflection as a practice of alignment Reflection asks you to be both student and steward of your own journey. It’s where you learn to see not just what needs to change but what needs to continue. For faith-driven leaders, reflection is also deeply spiritual. It’s the moment you align purpose with presence, when your leadership becomes less about performance and more about partnership with God’s direction. When your life and leadership mirror your convictions, impact follows naturally.[2] Reflection questions to move you forward Use these prompts to guide your next leadership check-in: What decision this week felt off, and what might that reveal about alignment? Where did I feel most at peace or most stretched, and why? Which commitments serve my mission, and which distract from it? If my leadership had one anchor word this season, what would it be? What’s one small step I can take this week to embody that word? Reflection doesn’t just help you think better, it helps you lead truer.[1] Can reflection really change leadership outcomes Absolutely. Reflection builds self-awareness that fuels confident, intentional leadership. It gives you insight before burnout, wisdom before reaction, and peace before progress.[4] Leaders who reflect regularly don’t just evolve faster, they lead with greater presence and authority because they know where their decisions are rooted. Reflection transforms a reaction into a revelation, and a revelation into results. Early recognition matters When reflection becomes part of your daily rhythm, alignment becomes your default. You lead from clarity, not chaos. You make decisions from conviction, not confusion. If you’re ready to discover where your next level of leadership is waiting, and what alignment could look like in your own journey, take the Next Level Leadership Assessment. It’s a quick, insightful way to pinpoint where your identity, presence, and strategy can better align for greater impact. Take the Next Level Leadership Assessment . Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Courtney Robinson Courtney Robinson, Leadership Branding Strategist & Style Mentor As the founder of Image by Courtney and the creative force behind the Poise and Promises Weekly Devotional, Courtney Robinson empowers women to lead with poise and presence. Having navigated significant health challenges, she amplifies authenticity and elevates confidence for women leaders through the art of personal branding. Courtney’s mission is deeply rooted in inspiring women to step boldly into their purpose, asserting their authority, and making a lasting impact. References: [1] Parker, S. K., & Bindl, U. K. (2023). Self-reflection at work: Why it matters and how to harness it. Annual Review of Organizational Psychology and Organizational Behavior, 10(1). [2] Jennings, R. E., Lanaj, K., Koopman, J., & McNamara, G. (2022). Reflecting on one’s best possible self as a leader: Implications for professional employees at work. Personnel Psychology, 75(1), 69–90. [3] Chiarelli, C. (2024). The use of reflection as an effective leadership practice: An introduction (EDIS WC 473). University of Florida IFAS Extension. [4] Kaluza, A. J., & Tafvelin, S. (2021). Reflection on leadership behavior: Potentials and limits in the implementation of stress-preventive leadership. Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, 16(1). [5] Dickerson, C. (2025, May 8). The ladder of inference: Building self-awareness to be a better human-centered leader. Harvard Business Publishing Insight.

Written by Sadé Schuurman, Visionary Entrepreneur Sadé Schuurman is the founder of Diamonds by Sadé, a jewellery brand redefining luxury by offering high-quality, customizable diamond pieces at accessible prices. Her passion for timeless elegance drives her mission to make exquisite jewellery a celebration for everyone. An engagement ring is one of the most meaningful purchases you’ll ever make, a symbol of eternal love, devotion, and the promise of forever. At Diamonds by Sadé , we believe that choosing the perfect ring should be an experience filled with excitement, romance, and confidence. Every piece we create is designed to celebrate love stories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal or shopping together, here’s how to choose the perfect engagement ring that reflects your partner’s personality and your shared journey. 1. Understand the 4Cs: Cut, colour, clarity, and carat Before falling in love with a design, it’s important to understand what makes a diamond truly shine, the 4Cs. Cut: The most vital factor in a diamond’s brilliance. A high-quality cut allows light to dance through the stone, giving it that unmistakable sparkle. Colour: Graded from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The closer to colourless, the rarer the diamond. However, a slightly warmer tone can beautifully complement yellow or rose gold settings. Clarity: Tiny natural inclusions make every diamond unique. Most are invisible to the naked eye, so you can often prioritise sparkle and size over flawless grading. Carat: Carat measures weight, not just size. A well-cut one-carat diamond can appear larger than a heavier stone that lacks brilliance. At Diamonds by Sadé, our expert jewellers ensure that every diamond, whether natural or lab-grown, meets exceptional standards of beauty and balance across all four Cs. 2. Choose a shape that matches their personality Every diamond shape tells its own story, just like every love story is unique. Round brilliant: Timeless, radiant, and traditional. Oval or pear: Elegant and elongated, perfect for a touch of sophistication. Cushion or princess cut: Modern and romantic with extra sparkle. Emerald or asscher: Vintage elegance that reflects refined taste. If your partner is bold and expressive, a unique cut like pear or radiant will make a stunning statement. For someone who adores classic beauty, a round or oval solitaire will always stand the test of time. 3. Pick the right metal The metal you choose defines the ring’s overall tone and style. White gold or platinum: Sleek and contemporary, it enhances brilliance. Yellow gold: Warm, rich, and perfect for traditional romantics. Rose gold: Soft and feminine, symbolising warmth and love. At Diamonds by Sadé, every engagement ring is available in your choice of metal to ensure it perfectly complements your partner’s skin tone and everyday style. 4. Consider the setting The setting not only holds the diamond securely but also defines the ring’s character. Solitaire: Understated elegance, one diamond that says it all. Halo: A sparkling frame that magnifies brilliance. Three-stone: Represents your past, present, and future together. Vintage or custom: For those who want to make a one-of-a-kind statement. If your partner leads an active lifestyle, a low-profile setting might be ideal. For those who love glamour and sparkle, halo or multi-stone settings are breathtaking choices. 5. Natural or lab-grown, choose what feels right Both natural and lab-grown diamonds offer exceptional beauty, but lab-grown stones are an increasingly popular choice for modern couples. They’re ethically created, identical in composition, and often more affordable, allowing you to invest in size or design without compromise. Diamonds by Sadé offers both natural and lab-grown engagement rings, ensuring every couple finds a piece that aligns with their values and vision. 6. Set a budget that reflects your story Forget the old “three-month salary” rule. Your ring should reflect love, not financial stress. The goal is to find a piece that feels right for your partner and your journey. With flexible options across all price ranges, Diamonds by Sadé ensures luxury is always within reach. 7. Make it personal What makes a ring truly unforgettable is the story behind it. From hidden engravings of initials or dates to bespoke design consultations that bring your vision to life, personalisation turns an engagement ring into a lasting legacy. At Diamonds by Sadé, every ring tells a story, your story. From design to delivery, we guide you through every step to ensure your engagement ring captures your love in the most radiant way possible. Begin your forever today for a perfect engagement ring Explore our elegant collection of engagement rings and find the one that reflects your love and devotion here . Because at Diamonds by Sadé, we believe every queen deserves to shine. Feel like a queen inside and out, without the royal expenses. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Sadé Schuurman Sadé Schuurman, Visionary Entrepreneur As the founder of Diamonds by Sadé, Sadé Schuurman transforms her lifelong love for diamonds into a mission of accessibility and elegance. She leads a brand renowned for its customizable and affordable jewellery, empowering clients to celebrate their unique stories with timeless, high-quality creations.

Written by Carmela Lacey, Yoga Teacher, Movement Educator, Wellness Advocate Carmela is an internationally recognised yoga educator and movement specialist with over 25 years of experience. She is the founder of Yoga Rhyth’OM and leads teacher trainings, retreats, and wellness programs that blend traditional wisdom with modern science. There is a growing body of research, and a quiet pulse of ancient wisdom, that points to an extraordinary idea, the heart is not merely a pump. It is a centre of intelligence, intuition, and emotional awareness. According to neuroradiologist Dr. J. Andrew Armour, the heart possesses its own intricate neural network, a “little brain” in the heart, that both receives and sends information to the cranial brain in a continuous, dynamic dialogue. In the yoga and mindfulness world, this is no revelation. For centuries, sages have guided us to “listen to the heart,” “breathe into the heart space,” and “feel rather than think.” What science is now confirming, mystics have always known: the brain and the heart are in constant communion, and this sacred connection can be consciously nourished through meditation, movement, and the cultivation of emotional resonance. The intelligence of the heart Nestled in the chest, the heart contains roughly 40,000 neurons. These form what researchers refer to as the intrinsic cardiac nervous system, a complex circuitry capable of memory, learning, decision-making, and emotional processing. The heart communicates with the brain through the vagus nerve, hormonal secretions, energetic fields, and via direct neurological pathways. But perhaps even more astonishing is how this communication is influenced by emotion. States of love, compassion, gratitude, and care send coherent signals from the heart to the brain, helping to regulate stress responses, enhance clarity of thought, and improve physiological harmony. The inverse is also true. When we live in states of anxiety, anger, or disconnection, our heart rhythms become chaotic and erratic, affecting not only cardiovascular health but also impairing cognitive performance and emotional resilience. Heart-brain synchronisation This is where yoga and meditation become more than just wellness tools. They become bridges to coherence. Research from the HeartMath Institute and other scientific bodies shows that practices which evoke positive emotional states, particularly heart-focused meditation, create what’s known as physiological synchrony between the heart and the brain. This synchrony is a state of coherence where heart rhythms, respiration, and brainwave patterns move in a harmonious rhythm. When this happens, our system enters what scientists call an optimal performance zone, marked by increased clarity, emotional stability, creativity, and improved cardiovascular function. Yoga asana, pranayama, and meditative focus on the heart space can all generate this state. In essence, we are learning to tune the instrument of the body-mind to play a more beautiful, cohesive frequency. “What the mind forgets, the body remembers. And what the body remembers, the heart can heal.” – Author unknown The emotional influence The heart is not just a receiver of emotion, it is a generator. The practice of intentionally evoking heart-based emotions such as kindness, compassion, forgiveness, or appreciation has the power to reshape the very signals the heart sends to the brain. This is why meditative traditions often ask us to begin by bringing awareness to someone we love or to recall a memory that evokes tenderness. These emotional cues shift our inner chemistry, creating measurable changes in heart rate variability (HRV), a key marker of emotional regulation and stress resilience. Over time, cultivating these states not only improves emotional balance, it transforms how we respond to life itself. We become less reactive, more intuitive, and more attuned to the silent wisdom that lives within. Physiological benefits The health implications of this heart-brain connection are profound. Numerous studies have shown that meditative practices can: Lower heart rate Reduce blood pressure Improve heart rate variability (HRV) Balance the autonomic nervous system Reduce stress-related inflammation Enhance immune function Put simply, what the heart feels, the body follows. When we dwell in states of love and awareness, our entire system harmonises. The stress response calms. The body heals. The mind clears. And we return to what ancient yogic texts call sattva , a state of inner peace, clarity, and luminosity. A practice to strengthen the brain-heart connection You don’t need hours of seated meditation to begin. Even a few minutes of intentional, heart-centred focus can shift your entire state. Here is a simple yet powerful practice you can begin today: Anchor awareness in the heart: Close your eyes. Bring your attention to the centre of your chest. Visualise your awareness gathering there, like sunlight warming the centre of your being. Generate a positive emotion: Recall a moment of love. Think of someone you care for deeply. Or simply evoke the feeling of compassion, appreciation, or kindness. Let the emotion arise, however softly. Breathe with the heart: Begin to breathe slowly and deeply. Imagine each inhale and exhale flowing through your heart, like a gentle ocean tide. Let the rhythm of your breath soften and steady. Return when you wander: The mind may drift. That’s okay. Gently bring it back to your breath and your chosen feeling. Treat each return as a moment of grace. Be consistent: Even just five minutes a day of this practice can make a difference. Like any relationship, the connection between your heart and mind flourishes with attention, patience, and repetition. The sacred return In a world that often prizes the intellect, data, and productivity, it is a radical act to return to the wisdom of the heart. Yet that return is precisely what our nervous systems, relationships, and planet are quietly calling for. The next time you feel scattered, anxious, or overwhelmed, try this: pause, breathe, place your hand on your heart, and listen. There, beneath the noise of the mind, lives a vast and rhythmic intelligence, one that knows how to feel, how to heal, and how to guide you home to yourself. Final thoughts The brain-heart connection is not just a scientific phenomenon. It is a spiritual invitation, a call to remember that our deepest intelligence is not just cognitive, but emotional, intuitive, and embodied. As yogis, seekers, and humans navigating an often disconnected world, we can choose to anchor in this wisdom daily. Through conscious breath, through presence, and through the simple act of feeling with intention, we reweave the bridge between thought and feeling, between knowing and being. This is the medicine. This is the practice. This is the pulse of life, echoing in us all. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Carmela Lacey Carmela Lacey, Yoga Teacher, Movement Educator, Wellness Advocate Carmela is a highly regarded yoga and movement educator with over 25 years of teaching experience. As the founder of Yoga Rhyth’OM, she combines traditional yogic philosophy with modern movement science to create transformative experiences for her students. Her work spans yoga teacher trainings, women's wellness retreats, and educational programs/classes focused on functional movement, breathwork, and cyclical living. Known for her grounded wisdom and heartfelt teaching style, Carmela empowers others to move with awareness, age with grace, and live in rhythm with nature. Learn more about her offerings and articles through her Brainz profile.

Written by Nazoorah Nusrat, Holistic Life Coach Nazoorah Nusrat is a holistic life coach, mind-body practitioner, and founder of Clarity Coaching Energy. Through NLP, somatic healing practices, and heart-led alchemy, she helps people reconnect to their souls, release limiting beliefs, and heal from burnout, trauma, and toxic relationships. We don’t talk enough about what happens after you finally see the truth. After the fog lifts, after the cognitive dissonance cracks, or after you whisper to yourself, “I think I’ve been in a narcissistic relationship.” In this article, holistic life coach Nazoorah Nusrat explores the psychology and spirituality of life after narcissistic relationships and how healing your mind, body, and spirit becomes the most radical act of self-love. Recognising the aftershock When the relationship ends, the body doesn’t know it’s over. You might find yourself hyper-alert, waiting for the next emotional hit. You replay conversations, crave closure, or feel empty without the chaos. This is your nervous system trying to recalibrate after months or years of unpredictable emotional highs and lows, what trauma specialists like Bessel van der Kolk describe as the body’s memory of fear and attachment. Your body has lived in fight, flight, freeze, or fawn for so long that peace feels foreign. That’s not weakness, it’s conditioning. Awareness of this is the first act of power. The healing checklist: Signs you’re still in recovery Healing isn’t linear, but you can notice where you are by paying attention to your body, thoughts, and relationships. You question your intuition, even when it whispers clearly. You doubt your perception, replaying simple interactions to check if you “read them wrong.” You feel disconnected from your body or experience physical tension (especially in your chest, shoulders, and gut). You’re drawn to fix people or over-explain yourself to avoid conflict. You feel numb or suspicious when kindness appears. You find yourself missing the intensity of the narcissist, confusing chaos with chemistry. These are not signs of failure, they’re signals that your nervous system is still recalibrating from trauma bonding. Rebuilding self-trust Trusting yourself again takes time, but it begins with micro-acts of self-honouring. Start small, noticing when you’re tired and resting without guilt, eating when you’re hungry instead of pushing through, and choosing silence instead of over-explaining. Each act rewires your brain’s sense of internal safety. According to positive psychology research, consistent self-care behaviours build self-efficacy, the belief that you can meet your own needs. Journaling prompt: “What would my future self choose if she already felt safe?” Healing through the body Your body carries the imprint of every unspoken fear. That’s why healing must involve somatic work, not just mindset shifts. Try: Grounding breathwork. Inhale for four counts, exhale for six. Tapping or EFT to release stored anxiety. Gentle movement, such as walking, stretching, or dancing, to remind your body that it’s safe to move again. As Dr. Peter Levine notes, trauma completes its cycle when the body is allowed to feel and release energy safely. Healing happens in the present moment, not in revisiting the story. Recalibrating relationships After narcissistic abuse, you may feel disconnected from healthy love. You might crave solitude or fear repeating old patterns. This is natural. Begin by noticing your “trust map,” how you respond to new people. Who feels safe, and who triggers the old alert system? Give yourself permission to move slowly. Healthy love doesn’t rush. Surround yourself with people whose presence regulates your nervous system, friends who make you exhale, not perform. As neuroscience shows through mirror neuron studies, safety is contagious. Reclaiming your spirit Eventually, you’ll feel a subtle shift, a quiet inner peace replacing hyper-vigilance. This is your spirit re-entering your body. You’ll laugh more. You’ll dream again. You’ll realise that what you mistook for love was a lesson in discernment. The journey back to yourself isn’t about erasing the past, it’s about remembering your wholeness. Your future self isn’t waiting somewhere out there, she’s already within you, grounded, clear, and free. Final reflection Healing from narcissistic abuse is not about becoming who you were before, it’s about becoming who you were always meant to be. As you rebuild your mind, body, and spirit, remember, you don’t heal to prove you’re strong. You heal because peace is your birthright. Reach out and contact me if you need support and a path towards feeling confident, joyful, and alive again. Follow me on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn  for more info! Read more from Nazoorah Nusrat Nazoorah Nusrat, Holistic Life Coach Nazoorah Nusrat is the founder of Clarity Coaching Energy. With over 20 years of experience in health and wellness, she supports people moving through grief, burnout, or identity shifts to reclaim their clarity, confidence, and inner calm. As a reflexologist as well, Nazoorah blends science, spirituality, and soul to help her clients reconnect to their truth. Having moved through and healed from narcissistic relationships and dynamics, Nazoorah is passionate about emotional alchemy, sacred leadership, and creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and empowered. References: Durvasula, R. (2017). Should I Stay or Should I Go? Surviving a Relationship with a Narcissist. Walker, P. (2013). Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving. van der Kolk, B. (2015). The Body Keeps the Score. Neff, K. (2011). Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself. Levine, P. (2010). In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness. Positive Psychology Journal (2018). 'Self-Compassion and Post-Traumatic Growth.'

Written by Monica Krake, Breathwork & Business Guide Monica supports businesses with the three keys to expansion. Strategic structure, energetic alignment, and a powerful mastermind community. Work with Monica by joining her six-month business accelerator  or her signature course, The Alignment Activation . I think we can all agree that 2025 is the year for changing things up. It’s been an intense season of growth, both personally and professionally, for many of us. And what’s more clear than ever is that business growth isn’t just about strategy, it’s about expanding from the inside out. Below, I’m sharing the five approaches and resources that have been truly helping me run and evolve my business and state of being this year. 1. Recognize that your state of being is the key True expansion requires our nervous system and energetic body to evolve. When we have a business dream, we can’t simply strategize and execute. We also need to spend time to become the person with the capacity to create and hold that bigger vision we’ve been dreaming of. This requires an upgrade to our state of being. Ceremony, intention, and energy work aren’t just nice-to-haves. They’re essential for growing that next version of ourselves and our businesses. And, this is a much more enjoyable way to align and grow. That’s why breathwork  and visioning are key ingredients in the business immersion  work I do with clients and teams. When we access our most clear and pristine state of being, everything becomes possible. 2. Build in community We don’t expand in isolation, we expand in community. If you’re in a season of growth, I highly recommend forming your own “business support circle”. This could be a small, committed group of people who truly get what you’re building. You may want to create an advisory team or join a mastermind group. If you don’t want to create your own, there are many communities already available that are designed to help businesses grow in reciprocity. For example, Dovetail , Jenna Black’s business membership , and Danielle LaPorte’s business community  are all great places to explore. 3. Find voices of wisdom to expand your daily boosts When you find a mentor, teacher, or guide whose words consistently bring you back to truth, go deeper. One of the voices I’ve loved this year has been Australian-based Jenna Black. Her teachings focus on aligning with the frequency of who you’re becoming as you expand, and she’s not afraid to use the “G” word! In a season where I’ve needed grounded, wise inspiration, her monthly downloads have kept me connected to the bigger vision behind the work I’m here to bring forward. 4. Grow your capacity to receive and hold wealth Whether you’re investing in yourself or your business, money often brings up fear, even for those of us who’ve done a lot of inner work. No matter how much you have or don’t have, many of us need to do some money work as we grow and expand our businesses. Ana Kinkela’s 21 Days of Wealth series via her podcast  (free and so good) is about bringing even 1% more pleasure into every area of life. One episode in particular, on “ launch trauma ,” beautifully explains that growing our capacity doesn’t mean avoiding discomfort. It means learning to move through the pain, fear, and shadows that come with expansion. I’m also very intrigued by Source Code, a modality that can help us reprogram our limiting patterns. Business guide Lara Kozan  weaves Source Code into her business coaching, and I’ve heard her approach is life-changing. If you’re looking for a book or audiobook, I highly recommend Tosha Silver’s It’s Not Your Money and Chantel Chapman’s The Trauma of Money  is next on my list! 5. Remember that alignment isn’t the same as reinvention Finally, a reminder that we’re not all meant to quit our corporate jobs to become healers or yoga teachers. If this is you, I’d recommend exploring Kat Pellat Metcalfe,  who helps women in the corporate world live with deeper purpose, without blowing up their careers. Her work is a powerful reminder that alignment often means meeting ourselves in a new way, right where we are. Expansion doesn’t always look dramatic. Sometimes, it’s subtle, and that’s the best. Our state of being is the source from which everything else is created. When we tend to that first, business growth becomes not just a strategy but an alignment with who we truly are and with honouring our life’s work. Follow me on Instagram,   LinkedIn,  and visit my website for more info! Read more from Monica Krake Monica Krake, Breathwork & Business Guide Monica is a breathwork facilitator, lifelong entrepreneur, and founder of Head + Heart . She’s passionate about helping people access their most inspiring lives and work by tapping into the possibilities that open up when we connect with our truest state of being. Connect with Monica on Instagram or sign up to receive her popular roundup of wellness tips and experiences here .