Xenia is a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach and Autoimmune Paleo (AIP) Coach in the making. Having been faced with multiple autoimmune conditions in her mid-20s, Xenia took the radical decision to turn her back on a successful and promising career in Finance, to fully focus her time on recovery. Unsatisfied with conventional medical treatment that relies on medication as the sole tool to treat these complex diseases, she has since dedicated her life to helping women with autoimmune conditions heal their bodies through a natural and holistic Functional Medicine approach. She is the founder of Xenia Brandstetter Health Coaching, where she offers transformational coaching programs and online support to others on their healing journey, so they can start feeling like themselves again and lead the life they want. Xenia Brandstetter, Autoimmune Health Coach Introduce yourself! Please tell us about you and your life, so we can get to know you better. Hi! My name is Xenia Brandstetter. I am a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach and soon-to-be Autoimmune Paleo (AIP) Certified Coach. When I was diagnosed with multiple autoimmune conditions in my mid-twenties, my life fell apart and it took me years to find my way back to myself and to health. I needed time to grieve for the life I always thought I would have, but that suddenly felt out of reach. I was terrified because I thought everything would change, and it did – but for the better. Now, my goal is to make this journey easier for everyone who is going through the same. Less than five years later, I now feel as good as I have not felt even long before I got sick. I recently moved to Cyprus, a sunny island in the Mediterranean, which allows me every day to walk by the beach, watch the sunset from my terrace, cultivate my newfound passion for pottery, and always have time for cuddles with my cat Milo. Above all, I am beyond grateful that I get to work with amazing women around the world who also want to step up and take ownership of their health. What is your business name and how do you help your clients? At Xenia Brandstetter Health Coaching, I work with women with autoimmune conditions who are ready to take responsibility for their health, and who are prepared to do whatever it takes to heal and finally feel like themselves again. I found that many people want to be actively involved in their health instead of sitting back and letting matters unfold. Every decision we take can have an impact on our health, and being aware of this connection is very powerful. My goal for my clients is for them to no longer feel like victims of their disease. I do not want them to become warriors because constantly fighting a part of ourselves is exhausting and unhealthy. Instead, I want to empower them to become the hero of their own story, to work with their disease instead of against it, and to always strive for a healthier future. What kind of audience do you target your business towards? Due to my background, I love working with ambitious and career-driven women who are struggling to balance being successful at their job while at the same time prioritizing health and healing. Before making the switch to become a health coach, I used to work in a large financial corporation and I know the pressure to perform in the corporate world all too well. This working environment is especially challenging for women, who often feel that they cannot show weakness and must work twice as hard to be taken seriously. Naturally, struggling with an autoimmune condition can lead to a career crisis of some sort because on the one hand, we do not want to let our co-workers down and on the other hand, we want to make the best decision when it comes to our health. I also love working with women who have dealt with disordered eating in the past and who seem to have been forgotten in the established diet recommendations for people with autoimmune conditions. For many of us, losing weight while following a restrictive diet to support our immune system is not a desired outcome and may even be a dangerous risk. This is especially true for conditions that are directly related to food, such as celiac disease or diabetes, but also those impacting the gastrointestinal systems, such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis. This is a matter very close to my heart because it has been one of my biggest struggles in the past, and I am very grateful that I get to support others in similar situations so they do not have to do it alone. What are your current goals for your business? I am currently putting together a structured private coaching program I am very excited about which will launch later this year. In Healing Heroes, clients will have the opportunity to work with me along the core pillars of health: body, mind, and spirit. The program will provide them with a guided and fully supported approach to healing, and they will receive all the tools they need to finally start feeling like themselves again. My goal for them is to feel empowered because they understand that their diagnosis does not sentence them to a lifetime of feeling like the best part of their life is already behind them. Instead, they will take the first steps towards a healthier future by starting to implement big lifestyle changes. At the end of the program, they will feel excited about the future because they are clear on their goal of putting themselves and their health first and gaining back control over their life. Who inspires you to be the best that you can be? I draw inspiration from the many women and men who came before me and paved the way to healing autoimmune diseases with their extensive research. Surrounding myself with stories from people who have already achieved what I am striving for always helps me when I feel demotivated. There is so much literature available and immersing myself in books on healing has completely shifted my belief from “it’s not possible” to “it is 100% possible” and it is what always keeps me going when I hit a roadblock. The vast majority of people with autoimmune diseases do not get better and heal which is extremely discouraging, so we have to look for the exceptions to the rule and make those our new norm. Tell us about your greatest career achievement so far. My greatest career achievement so far was giving up the career I had worked for all my life to find out what my purpose was. It was the hardest decision I ever had to take and I have not regretted it once. I am convinced that it is possible for people to perform better than ever at their job after being diagnosed if that is their choice, but it was not mine. I spent a lot of time after my diagnosis rethinking my life, and I discovered that my priorities were not in alignment with my true values. For me, this changed everything starting from the place where I live, to the job I have, to the people that are in my life. Tell us about a pivotal moment in your life that brought you to where you are today. When I was first diagnosed with an autoimmune condition, my most important question to the doctor was: “What can I do to support my body in healing?” It did not make sense to me that my body was suddenly broken, randomly attacked itself, and would never be able to heal again. I was told that the only thing I can do is take my pills. Conventional medical treatment has done a lot for me and I am grateful to have access to all the medication I need, but if I had listened to my doctor and believed that my health was out of my hands from this point forward, I would not be where I am today. Just because there is no cure for autoimmune disease does not mean we cannot heal. I made it my mission to understand how our diseases can be put in remission, to do whatever it takes to heal and to share everything I know with anyone asking for help. Follow me on Instagram, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Xenia!

Written by: Patrizia Bortolin , Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Joining the charm of hospitality with the beauty of authentic wellness concepts to design out of the ordinary spa destinations for contemporary wellness seekers: how to deliver projects that matter and flow with visionary leading lights in the industry. The world needs and loves companies with meaning, commitment, and values and new generations are becoming very selective about that. Here’s where innovative wellness projects matter most and where is key for founders and investors to select fresh-thinking and future-oriented holistic advisors, able to merge wellness wisdom and healing creativity. Approach each Spa Design as a unique creation Creation is a process that starts from within to give birth to something that stands alone and rises and grows with its own light and identity. Assembling and collecting already known practices into the frame of a project, it is not enough, at least not anymore, to create unique visions. I like the word Design because it recalls the image of a painter, learning and practicing traditional and new techniques for years, but it is when they create their own personal style that flourishing happens. Big talks are running about wellness, healing is the new must have in the spa and hospitality businesses and owners are looking for wow trendy ideas. Those who have spent decades in researching with hands on experience know that a meaningful and successful creative process cannot be improvised or replicate past experiences. It takes time, discipline and dedication to absorb what the inner and outer world is offering and transform it in our own personal and innovative method. Only this way we can offer specific design skills based on the history of the place and the intention of the owner and true people management with a clear experienced vision of how the target guest is living the experience. Keep investing in deep knowledge and personal experience Spa Design is a never ending journey that roots on years of experience, of setting ourselves as pioneers in the field, of hands on personal healing studies and practices, wellness research and daily mindful lifestyle beyond trends and wellness fashion, of deep knowledge and study of contemporary discoveries and ancient wisdoms. Healing retreats need smart project management, empathy, mindful perspective and expert hands, able to support the transformative journey of the person. Delivering final brilliant results with lightness and caring support is the output of a solid background, based on continuous personal and professional investment on ourselves and on the tools and practices we use. Work on your own personal growth The ultimate goal of designing a spa destination is to support people on their healing journey. And we know what is required to support others only if we have done and keep doing a true personal work on ourselves. As exceptional Spa Designers, we never stop to invest time and resources on our own evolution and personal growth. Only that way, we can find deep inside those subtle qualities, such as intuition, empathy, and imagination… able to add the magic to each project. Thanks to experiencing and processing our inner findings, we design and teach deep and valuable offerings that are at the same time joyful, creative, inspiring and make the travel to wellness unforgettable, with long-lasting effects. Identify your meaningful human connections Throughout the years of international experiences as Wellness Designer and Healing Coach, I have encountered few extraordinary individuals, highly committed collaborators exuding excellence and care in all areas necessary to create the new wellness, the best in-field experts, healers, practitioners and therapists, starting with Stefano Battaglia, Co-Founder of Glowing Flow, a pioneer of emotional and mental wellbeing, fine expert in various holistic and healing techniques and a source of constant inspiration. We co-lead the Glowing Flow Retreat, the source of our service to the world, in very selected locations and special editions. It is also thanks to our own precious human network, sharing the same revolutionary approach based on authenticity and true values, that we can plan contemporary wellness projects that resonate with the new generations, their ideals and desires, that avoid falsehoods and hypocrisy and truly support personal growth and personal talents expressions. Glowing Flow is a wellness specialist hub with made in Italy tailoring approach, that offers bespoke business development and project management, pr & marketing strategies, team coaching and creative brainstorming for properties wanting to enhance their wellness vision or to create a new one. Glowing Flow focuses on creating contemporary wellbeing designs for leading spa and hospitality destinations able to enchant the world, tailor made to highlight strong points and to commute the weak ones in unique opportunities of transformation and most of all able to enrich and elevate the life of people, supporting them in flowing with their most essential and aligned purpose of life. Discover more about our services and advisory support by contacting us here. Follow me on Li nkedIn , and visit my website for more info! Read more from Patrizia! Patrizia Bortolin, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine An award-winning Wellness Consultant & Spa Designer with a successful track record in designing, developing and launching unforgettable wellness concepts, Retreats, treatments and products, for emerging and established brands in the hospitality sector. Patrizia Bortolin is a Life Coach, Transformational Wellness Pioneer, Wellbeing researcher and World Food Travel Association Ambassador, with extensive experience in transformational tourism, wellness sales & marketing, healing wellness hospitality, sustainability, beauty & natural remedies. Industry leaders, high profile clientele and travel specialists recognised Bortolin’s unique ability to design and manage memorable Spa Concepts in remarkable locations. She incorporates world-class healing, beauty, and contemporary wellness principles to create world-renowned spas for which she has been honoured with the most prestigious international Spa Awards. A love of learning and passion for healing continually guides Bortolin in building a meaningful career in international Spa Management and her pioneering mental wellbeing approaches, awareness and body-mind-spirit integrated wellness tools. Bortolin has extensive experience leading Medical Spas, Spa Destinations and luxury Spa Hotels which gives her a profound and very concrete knowledge and understanding of wellness hospitality. She has also previously travelled widely as an Executive for Tour Operators and Travel Agencies. Photo credits: Nicola Cipriani

Written by: Bruno Vanherberghen, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Pornography has become a widespread form of entertainment, with millions of people accessing it daily. It is so widespread that three of the top 15 globally trafficked websites are porn sites. While it may seem like a harmless form of entertainment, the normalization of its use and excessive consumption can have significant impacts on a person's life and well-being. It can affect our mental and physical health, our relationships, happiness and overall satisfaction in our lives. The younger generations are raised today with easy access to pornography which becomes their primary teacher of what sexuality is like. What are some of the effects of the normalization of pornography usage? 1. Desensitization Regular exposure to porn can lead to desensitization, reducing the ability to become aroused by real-life sexual experiences. This leads to the escalation of more extreme or even violent content which can change sexual preferences and the ability to become aroused and reach orgasm in real-life situations. Such changes cause significant internal confusion around self-identity as well as strong feelings of shame and guilt afterwards. 2. Objectification of partners Pornography often objectifies and dehumanizes its performers, which can lead to the objectification of real-life partners. Objectification leads to a reduced ability to connect emotionally and sexually with partners. 3. Body image and self-esteem: Constant exposure to airbrushed, idealized images of bodies and normalization of cosmetic surgery in porn can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem in individuals, especially in young people who are still developing their sense of self. 4. Sexual dysfunction Frequent porn consumption can lead to sexual dysfunctions, such as erectile dysfunction and difficulty reaching orgasm. Erectile dysfunction could be linked to desensitization and the use of ‘death-grip’ techniques. A study from 2016 highlighted that the more porn one watched the more likely one conjured images of porn during sex to remain aroused. 5. Decreased relationship satisfaction Excessive porn consumption can decrease relationship satisfaction especially when pornography is consumed independently in the relationship (ie not together). A sort of invisible wall arises with one’s intimate partner, it is a place where we are not fully confessed, and there can be a fear of being caught and the consequences of that. 6. Normalization of certain extreme sexual acts, violence and coercion Pornography can depict aggressive and non-consensual sex acts, which can normalize and even legitimize these behaviors in the minds of viewers. These effects are not universal and it might be that one only experiences a few of these. They vary based on the individual and their personal circumstances. But excessive porn consumption can have a negative impact on sexual function and well-being. Excessive porn usage presents many symptoms of addiction-like behavior. While pornography isn’t formally classified as an addiction, anecdotal evidence describes symptoms similar to those seen in substance abuse disorders like drugs and alcohol. Being unable to control how much and how often one watches. Feeling strong cravings. Continued usage despite knowing its effects. Reducing social activities to watch porn resulting in increased social isolation. Using porn in situations that could have significant negative consequences ie works. Decreased motivation to engage in other activities or tackle new things in life. Increased levels of anxiety and depression. If you are struggling with any of the above symptoms relating to pornography usage then getting serious about stopping this habit is the right next step to take. Leaving the old behind to be reborn as something new. No more running in circles. But know that change will not come with a half-hearted effort. You must want it fully and you must be willing to give it up, to no longer buy into your own excuses, to no longer kick the can down the road. It is only in the present moment that we have the power to change our future. An addiction recovery coach can make a real difference in your life. You have tried it on your own countless times. Try it with the support of somebody else. It helps to talk about this to another person, to bring the darkness into the light. A coach specialized in porn addiction can provide the support, guidance, and accountability needed to help you break free from the cycle of porn addiction. A free, healthy fulfilling life free of porn is right here for the taking. What we need to do is grab it. Follow me on Facebook, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Bruno! Bruno Vanherberghen, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Bruno is a life coach, specialized in helping people overcome their addictions and compulsive patterns. He knows how to step out of old patterns and emerge on the other side with a newfound freedom and drive for life. The ability to delay instant gratification to pursue longer term goals, follow and realize dreams and aspiration. We need to do things differently and Bruno is an expert at helping to manage personal change. He suffered from heavy depression during his 20's at which point many of his compulsive behaviors spiraled out of control. Alcohol, drugs, porn, caffeine, sugar, gaming, food issues were some of his personal struggles. He can proudly say that the compulsion is a thing of the past. He has coached over 700 individuals, has over 120 customer verified testimonials, an approval rating of 95% and more than 98% improve. He has a deep personal understanding of addiction and is empathic, encouraging, caring with an occasional gentle firmness to help people realize the goals they set for themselves. His mission: to support people to realize their full potential.

Written by: Dr. Nikki Cohen, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Many people struggle with peeing all the time, or more often than they should, which can interrupt daily life and prevent you from enjoying the things you love. But what is “normal” and what isn’t when it comes to peeing? This article will outline what is normal, what isn’t, and what you can do about dealing with an overactive bladder. On average, people pee/urinate 6-7 times a day, but this will depend on the individual, how much fluid they consume, and other factors. Of course, there are several factors that can alter this “normal” frequency such as pregnancy or if you’ve recently given birth, are on medications such as diuretics, or have certain heart conditions. What Is Not Normal Urination? Typically, if you’re peeing more than 8 times a day, it could be considered increased “urinary frequency” or “overactive bladder” (OAB for short). Overactive bladder, also called OAB, causes a frequent and sudden urge to urinate that may be difficult to control. What Causes OAB? There are several things that could contribute to increased urinary frequency. One of the most common is consuming caffeine, sugar, citrus, alcohol, or carbonation. All these things could irritate your bladder and create urges to pee regardless of if your bladder is actually full. Avoiding these “bladder irritants” and/or reducing your consumption is the best way to avoid peeing a lot during the day. Stress can also increase urinary frequency. When you’re anxious or worried, many times it can affect your bladder, causing you to pee more often. When this is the case, it’s best to slow down, take a few deep breaths, and get present in the moment. Another factor in OAB is pelvic floor dysfunction. If your pelvic muscles are weak or too tight, they cannot work properly to help control your bladder, resulting in increased urinary frequency. Seeking out a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist can be a wonderful solution to resolve pelvic floor dysfunction and its relation to OAB. Other Causes of OAB People with OAB often practice the habit of peeing ‘just in case’. “Just in case” peeing is the habit of urinating when it isn't necessary or when you don't feel a strong urge to go. It's often done as a preventive measure rather than waiting to experience an urge before using the restroom. Often, people with OAB find themselves peeing ‘just in case’ before leaving the house and sometimes even multiple times during the day. When you practice this habit of peeing just in case, your bladder starts to get used to emptying before it’s full. Over time, this can contribute to OAB symptoms, urgent or sudden urges to pee, leaking urine, and pelvic pain. How to Retrain Your Bladder? Now that you know what’s normal and what isn’t, as well as the common causes of OAB, it's time to learn how to retrain your bladder. Here are a few tips to get you started: Wait until you feel the urge to pee. Instead of peeing “just in case,” wait until you feel an urge before using the restroom. This will help to train your bladder to hold urine until it's time to go. Consider what you've been consuming. Caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks can irritate your bladder and lead to more frequent urges, so try to avoid them as much as possible. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness and being in the present moment. This will help calm your nervous system and help relax your bladder. Seeking Support If you’re finding it difficult to manage on your own, consider seeking help from a pelvic floor physical therapist. They can guide how best to retrain your bladder and help reduce overactive bladder symptoms. If you have OAB, pelvic floor physical therapy may help you to control sudden or frequent urges to urinate. If you don’t have a pelvic floor physical therapist in your area, you can start with the online course, Bladder Essentials, which gives you the basic information you need from the comfort of your home. Conclusion Overactive Bladder can lead to a number of negative effects, including stress, worry, disruption of life, pelvic pain, and difficulty controlling your bladder. With the right tools and support, you can learn to manage your OAB symptoms, and take control of your life and bladder. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Dr. Nikki! Dr. Nikki Cohen, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Dr. Nikki is a Doctor of Physical Therapy specializing in Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and is a passionate leader in transforming women’s healthcare. She saw a gap in the care of women firsthand and developed a proprietary methodology in providing 1:1 patient care, as well as offering essential information online. Founder of The Organic PT, Dr. Nikki takes the awkwardness out of potentially embarrassing issues and empowers women with knowledge to take back control in their health, wellness and life.

Written by: Anka Grzywacz, Senior Level Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Low sex drive on the Pill is a common complaint among women who use this form of birth control. On the one hand, contraception gives you the freedom to enjoy intimacy without stressing out about unplanned pregnancy. On the other hand, the hormones can reduce your interest in sex. Is it always like that? Are there any types of birth control pills that don't cause a drop in sex drive? And what to do if you've lost interest in intimacy while on the Pill? What you’ll learn: Low sex drive on the Pill is one of the most common complaints among birth control users. Research has not found a definitive cause of diminished sex drive on the Pill, but hormones are possibly to blame. Pills with the higher dose of hormones may be more beneficial to your libido. Sex on the Pill may not be as frequent as before but it’s the quality that matters most. How Does the Pill Work? The Pill is a hormonal method of birth control. This means you’re introducing artificial hormones into your body to gain control of your fertility. A classic Pill works by blocking your ovulation. It also changes your cervical fluid, making it thicker, so that even the most determined sperm cannot come through. Another function of the Pill is to make your uterine lining thinner, making it an unfavorable place for embryo implantation. The hormones we’re talking about are similar to what the woman’s body is already producing – estrogen and progesterone. With traditional pills you get the same amount of each of these hormones every day for three weeks, then you take a week’s break when you get a menstruation-like bleeding. More recent types of pills may contain different amounts of hormones in the pack, to better imitate the natural female cycle. Other brands offer pills you can take all the time without breaks, eliminating the bleeding altogether, or reducing the number of “periods” in a year. Does Your Libido Always Drop on the Pill? Low sex drive on the Pill is one of the most complaints among users of this method of contraception. But is birth control really to blame? Research has not found a clear link between the two and experts suspect the drop on libido on hormonal birth control has complex causes. Some studies suggest that different types of pills have varying effects on users. For example if you’re using the Pill in a daily regime, meaning you’re taking hormones every day, your desire may be doing better compared to women who use low-dosage pills or take weekly breaks for the bleeding to happen. Another theory concerns the role of testosterone in women’s sex drive. Since the Pill changes the balance of androgens (so-called male sex hormones) in the woman’s body, this may result in lower (or higher) libido, depending on the person and Pill type. Scientists believe some women may be more susceptible to those changes than others. Physical effects aside, some people experience increased sex drive just because the Pill gives them high certainty that they will not get pregnant when they don’t want to. And worrying about unplanned consequences of sex can kill any sexy mood, so it’s not a surprise. Not all women lose their sex drive on the Pill. Photo by Andrea Piacquadio How To Improve Your Sex Drive on the Pill? The Pill was one of the greatest inventions of the 20th century, giving women the freedom to decide about motherhood and enjoy sex without fear of pregnancy. But this effective method of contraception doesn’t come without side effects. Here’s what to think about if the Pill is affecting your libido levels: Consider A Different Method If you recently started taking the Pill as a form of birth control and your libido went down, don’t panic. Your body needs up to three months to get used to the artificial hormones and you may have more side effects at the start. If you’ve been on the Pill for a while and noticed a big difference in your sex drive compared to before starting this method of contraception, discuss this with your doctor. Sometimes a change of the Pill brand or switching to another hormonal method can help. And there are other options to consider too. If you’re not planning any (or more) kids, your male partner could do a vasectomy for example. Choose To Be Sexual If you decided to continue using the Pill despite its effect on your sex drive, you can still actively support your sexual energy and have a satisfying erotic life. But you need to make a conscious choice. Your desire won’t thrive unless you pay attention to it – and to yourself. Yes, the hormones may be messing with it but there are many things you can do to boost vital energy. Libido, after all, is the energy of life. Do an honest check of the basics: Are you getting enough sleep? Are you eating well and drinking enough water? What about your stress levels? Are you moving enough and is it pleasurable? How is your relationship situation? Making sure your general wellbeing is at a stable level is key to your libido. Another thing to nurture when you have low sex drive on the Pill is responsive desire. Many of us were led to believe that sex always happens spontaneously. It’s that “I want you right here, right now” reaction we see in the movies. But the reality, especially in long-term relationships or for people with physical challenges, is different. We need to help desire grow. It doesn’t mean pushing yourself to do something you don’t want. It’s about being curious and observing if your arousal will grow once you get started. Quality Not Quantity Libido problems are not always problematic – sometimes all it takes is a change in mindset. You may think that a person with a healthy sex drive must have sex often. That’s not true. Our interest in sex changes over the years and depending on circumstances. For example many people experienced a drop of sex drive in the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of focusing on the frequency of intercourse, try to make every intimate experience count. And if your partner is not happy with that change, talk about it and find ways for him or her to satisfy their needs without pressuring you. They can masturbate, or you can do some things like hand jobs without engaging in intercourse every time. Sex toys can help if you need stronger stimulation. Photo by Anna Shvets Make Love to Yourself Speaking of masturbation, giving yourself regular pleasure and orgasms is a great way to maintain your sex drive. Don’t worry, it will not reduce your interest in making love to your partner. There are no limits to how much pleasure you can feel! Pay attention to the effect of the Pill on your sexual functioning. If you’ve noticed you need stronger stimulation to experience climax, a vibrator or clitoral suction toy can do the trick. Also, hormones can reduce your natural lubrication, so make sure to have lubricant at hand. Get Your Sex Drive Back Libido is tricky for many women, and the Pill complicates things even more. But not all is lost! Working with a doctor and changing some of your lifestyle and bedroom habits will help you feel the excitement again. Don’t know where to start? Download my free mini audio course Go Back to Good Sex. With these short recordings you’ll take stock of your libido and get motivated to improve it. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Anka! Anka Grzywacz, Senior Level Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Anka Grzywacz is a sexologist and Certified Sex Coach. In her online practice she specialized in helping women with low desire, orgasm problems, and intimacy after baby. In 2019 she presented her "Good Enough Sex" philosophy at TEDx Zurich. Back in her home country, Poland, she hosted a nationwide radio show on sexuality and relationships at TOK FM Radio. Anka started out as sex educator, working with teenagers, and a reproductive rights activist. Today, she is based in Zurich, Switzerland.

Written by: Jenny McCabe, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Are you fed up with attracting challenging and high-maintenance clients? Maybe you’re sick of working crazy long hours and feeling exhausted. Do you feel overwhelmed about how to up-level your business and life without hustling and risking burnout? If you’re charging by the hour or per session, you might want to consider packaging your brilliance into a high-end package to free yourself of undercharging and underearning. Every business has the opportunity to offer a high-end package and the benefits are divine; you serve dream clients who truly desire what you have to offer, whilst working fewer hours and with fewer clients for significantly more income, impact, and freedom. After all, isn’t that why you started your business? Having a high-end package could also be the very thing that catapults your reputation, from being unknown and overlooked to being a superstar in your niche and being booked out. Selling a high-end package requires the same amount of effort as selling a one-off one-hour session without having to worry about finding dozens of new clients EVERY month. However, you do need to learn the strategy coupled with mastering the mindset and energetics around feeling worthy of selling a high-end package and serving premium clients. The Benefits of a High-End Package: 1. More Money in Your Bank Account If you're charging by the hour, there's only so much money you can make in a day, week, or month. But, if you offer a high-end package, you can make a lot more money, in a shorter amount of time. This means you can work less and still make more money! High-end packages release you from the struggle and scarcity of the trading time-for-money model and into an empowered mindset of owning your value and your worth. 2. More Time for You With a high-end package, you’ll reduce the number of clients, hours, and days you’re working each month, which means you can enjoy much more time for yourself and time with your loved ones. This also reduces the chances of burnout, leading to a healthier work-life balance and less stress overall. 3. Improved Client Relationships High-end packages mean that you serve your clients at the highest level creating powerful transformation or outcomes which build trust and improve client relationships. In addition, your clients feel like they are working with someone who is an expert in their field and who is deeply invested in their success and in turn will be more likely to refer others to you. 4. Increased Confidence Charging premium rates for your high-end offer will increase your confidence and up-level your self-worth. The more clients you take through your process and see the amazing results your clients are achieving; you'll know your service is worth the investment. 5. You’ll Attract Dream Clients High-end packages mean saying farewell to the challenging and difficult clients who keep you feeling burnt-out, overwhelmed, and too tired for your family as you start aligning your vision and strategy to attract more dream clients whom you adore and who will happily pay your value. Selling your high-end package is not only lucrative but is far more sustainable than charging by the hour and with a high-end package, you only need one irresistible offer to strategically hit six figures. If you are a coach, it also creates the opportunity to sustainably scale your business if you want to create a group program, course, or mastermind. Let’s have a look at the maths: How Much Can You Earn If you’re a web designer, and your package is £3500 you only need 3 new clients a month = 36 sales a year. = £126,000 per annum If you’re a coach and your offer is £5000, you only need 2 new clients per month. = 24 clients a year. = £120,000 per annum Now that we've gone over the benefits of offering a high-end service or product, let's talk about how to start creating a High-End Package How to Create a High-end Package 1. Understand Your Audience Before you start creating your high-end offer, it's important to do your research. This means understanding your target audience and getting laser-focused on the specific problem, fear or pain your dream client is experiencing and which you can solve for them. 2. Define The Desired Outcome Once you understand their pain, problem or fear, what is your dream client secretly dreaming of, and hoping and praying for? What is their desired outcome or transformation? Getting clear on the outcomes will help you sell the value of your high-end package. 3. Create Your Framework Map out your unique process, including the different modalities or delivery methods you use, to step by step take your clients from pain; to reaching their desired goals. Each step should have clearly defined outcomes or results along the way, this becomes the framework of how you deliver your service or program. 4. Pricing What price will you charge for your high-end offer? The price should take into account the value you are providing and should reflect the results or transformation your clients will achieve and not the number of hours or sessions it takes to get the results. 5. Positioning You need to demonstrate what makes you different and HOW your offer helps your dream clients overcome their problems. When you get this right, not only will they be ready to buy, but they will also be less concerned about the price or how you deliver the solution. 6. Branding Branding is not just about having a recognisable logo, it’s about how you want someone to feel when they first come across your brand and your offer. It’s how you communicate your brand values and what you stand for that also builds trust. If you’re offering a high-end package, your brand needs to also feel high-end. 7. Marketing Once your offer is created and priced, it's time to promote it! Having a high-end package and being clear about the specific outcomes makes it much easier for you to talk about your offer on consultation calls, social media, on your website or when you are networking. Lastly, you’ll need to get energetically aligned with your pricing and working with premium clients. You have to have confidence in your offer and believe that it provides incredible value for your clients or you will struggle to sell it. The first step is to give yourself permission to charge premium prices for your work in the world and shift into someone who feels deeply worthy and deserving. Creating a high-end offer has the potential to radically transform your business as it gives you a consistent revenue stream and a clear strategy to hit six figures without sacrificing your sanity or soul. A high-end package enables you to monetises your unique brilliance and expertise whilst making it highly marketable and easy for your dream clients to understand how you can serve them deeply because when they see that your package is the solution to overcoming their problem, they feel understood, they feel excited and they feel a tremendous amount of confidence that you can help them and in turn, this builds your confidence to deliver the most potent outcomes. If you want to learn how to brand your brilliance into a high-end package, I invite you to come and have a chat with me, we can start mapping out your high-end package together. You can book a free call with me here or find me on social media. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Jenny! Jenny McCabe, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Jenny McCabe is the founder of The Business Queen Collection and is a business coach and alchemist, marketing & brand strategist, energetic worker, and spiritual entrepreneur. Previously a business coach for an award-winning franchise, her experience in business and talent for identifying opportunities and solving problems, helps her transform her clients’ big visions into leveraged programs, and packages. Jenny stands for every woman living in financial abundance and their femme power to raise the global frequency. Jenny helps coaches, healers, therapists, and service providers learn how to package and price their high-end offers, close high-ticket and attract their soul-aligned clients through her signature program: High-End Business Queen.

Written by: Mira Taylor, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Most people think through an unspiritual and impersonal lens when they think about business and the business industry. As such, they have a tendency to be looking through a lens that is lacking in an availability toward being able to see and understand the genuine nature of business and the underlying spiritual and emotional (energetic) dynamics that move and breathe through businesses and organizations every day. By building an awareness of each business or organization as an entity all its own (a living breathing organism that has thoughts, feelings, personality – ego identity and a soul) you are able to appreciate and understand the ecosystems that a business or organization will thrive in, as well as, be able to appreciate the other types of business or organizational organisms that will be most mutually symbiotic and beneficial to create sustainable and healthy relationships with. When first appreciating the concept of a business or organization as an organism it can be helpful to think about it in a personified way through visualization and contemplative practices. This is to say, if your business or organization was a person – what would their personality be like? What would their style, vibe or presence be like in a room? What kind of hobbies would this person appreciate? What is a character that you know from stories, myths, movies, tv, etc. that you might equate as being a similar personality to the business or organization? If you are a sole proprietorship this answer should hopefully be centered around your concept and awareness of yourself in some way. Another important aspect of recognizing the identity and soul of a business is to think about what kind of emotional states are a part of the expressive nature and identity of that business or organization. As an example: a business who works with sales might lean toward considering itself a charismatic and seductive entity. A legal firm might consider itself persuasive and just. A spa might consider or identify itself as relaxing and peaceful as an emotional personality. There is no right or wrong answer when thinking about the personality of a business or organization and it's important to be honest about the true nature of your own business as far as the emotional personality that works best within the ecosystem of industry that a business or organization lives within. Part of experiencing and understanding the spiritual nature and identity of your own business also includes identifying what the metaphorical organic structures of your business or organization are presently. As an example, a larger organization might identify particular departments as the “brain” of the organization and another department the “heart” of the organization. As you think about these concepts you can also begin to think about what the heart-centered mindset of your own business is – as far as its expression and purpose. The heart of a gym might be to create and promote physical wellness for its employees and members. The heart of a salon might be to make the world a beautiful place by providing a sense of beauty and glamour to their clients. The heart of a tutoring company might be to make the world a more knowledgeable and wiser place by the ways that they teach and approach their students. Another way you can identify and connect with the spiritual nature of your business or organization is to think about it in context to how it would express in the animal or plant kingdoms – what its totemistic nature(s) are. A police department might associate itself with animals like the lion and the eagle because of their associations with courage, pride, and patriotism. A bookstore or educational center might associate itself with the owl, an oak tree and (or) a snake because of how they are associated with wisdom and knowledge. A non-profit organization might associate itself with a deer, a dove and (or) a dolphin because of their associations with peace, alacrity, compassion cooperation and charitability. An architecture firm might associate itself with animals like beavers or weaver birds because of these animals’ connections to work ethic and skillful craftsmanship in homestead building. Thinking about businesses and organizations from this mindset also provides for a lens of perspective that allows the organism that is your business or organization to think about the ecosystem it will thrive best in. This ecosystem is filled with other entities that will provide the healthiest and most sustainable partnerships and allows for an easier understanding of the role or function of each business or organization within the ecosystem it works within. With the concepts mentioned in mind it becomes more obvious how to make an effort to align with other businesses or organizations that also fit this behavioral attitude and personality type. This Is not to say that these worlds, organisms, and ecosystems aren’t connected and don’t ever interact with and influence one another but you aren’t going to ask a hummingbird or a squirrel to swim for a living and expect it to be successful or do well in the long term... unless of course, the kingfisher is a totem that stands out to you as a spiritual nature of your business or organization (a totem that best suits a business or organization that works across multiple industry ecosystems and depends on its adventurous and adaptablenature to be successful in the long term) Interested in learning more about how your business or organization can become more spiritually integrative and better understand itself as a genuine organism within a working ecosystem? Visit here to learn more and connect with Mira to schedule an initial consultation for spiritually integrative wellness services. Follow me on Instagram, LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Mira! Mira Taylor, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Mira Taylor is an Integrative Therapist, Subconscious Medium & Organizational Wellness Consultant who focuses on guiding clientele toward total wellness by combining concepts of psychology, spirituality, philosophy, and sustainable life practices. Mira is a member of the International Association of Therapists and master certified in Modern Applied Psychology, Cognitive Remodeling Therapy, Subconscious Integration Therapy, Mind-Body-Spirit Wellness, Wellness Linguistics, and Archetypal Psychology.

Written by: Stacey Brake, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Educators have been through the wringer over the past several years. We know that COVID took a toll but the general public doesn’t realize that education was a stressful job before social distancing, masks, lost educational time, schedule disruptions, and learning to teach online in two weeks or less… No. All of that has only added to an already overwhelming role. Many people don’t realize that long before 2020, school were struggling to retain talent in the Exceptional Children’s departments Math departments, and there was an ongoing struggle of what to do with children’s misbehavior. Educators deal with trauma from home, trauma from school shootings or active shooter drills. When the economy suffers, our children come to school without proper clothing, nutrition, let alone school supplies. There’s a saying that circulates in the self-help world, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” Whoever created that, has never met an educator. I’ve seen educators give and give. They pour out their entire heart and soul. And then, they go to an after-school meeting and learn, we have to add another assessment. They show up on a Wednesday morning with a new student in their classroom, who has just moved into a new foster home because their parents are now in jail. She takes a deep breath, and although she had nothing left to give, she smiles. She welcomes this new child into her room, she finds a space just for him, prints new labels for his cubby and desk. She pours more! If you’re a school leader, you already know this. You have likely lived it in the classroom at some point in your career. With educators so overwhelmed and the stakes so high, what can be done? While many districts have implemented direct mental health services for educators, there is something else that you should focus on for a long-lasting change. Rather than expect teachers who are already overwhelmed to take time out to go get support, why not bring mental health support to educators? Educators are reluctant to miss too many days of school. Often, teachers will joke that it’s more work to take a day off because of all of the planning that needs to happen to prepare for a substitute. The detailed instructions for routines, behaviors, changes in the school schedule, classroom policies, how to get help, what to do about a fire, and also…lesson plans. Joking aside, when you are really great at what you do, it’s hard to replace you even for just a day. Another challenge is that educators have a limited number of leave and sick days. Finding a therapist that could meet you after school may be possible(maybe not) but what would she do with her own children and their after-school activities? If we want to treat mental well-being as a priority in school, let’s consider 3 ways we can do just that. 3: School Culture. Really focus on creating a culture of well-being. Use survey data and real conversations to understand what’s going on, what’s difficult, and what needs to be addressed first and fast. 2: Scale Back. Teachers are often frustrated and stressed because there are so many responsibilities that aren’t actually teaching. Truly assess what are ALL of the programs, ALL of the extra duties, ALL of the things that teachers are doing that could be removed from their plate. 1: On Demand Mental Health Education with lifetime access. If educators don’t experience anxiety firsthand, they will likely encounter a student who does. Equipping teachers with resources for personally dealing with stress, overwhelm and anxiety will prove invaluable. One of the best ways a teacher can help her student with anxiety, for example, is to learn to effectively manage her own anxiety. Learning these tools and strategies when you are not overwhelmed is far more effective than trying to learn something new when your fight or flight is activated. It can also keep crisis at bay for someone who is experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of anxiety. Once a teacher has mastered anxiety management personally, she will be able to share in the classroom, she’ll be more effective as a teacher, and she’ll reconnect with the joy in her work. There are a number of ways to begin to support our educators’ well-being. It’s no longer a “nice-to-have”. It’s a must-have. It isn’t enough to acknowledge that the job is hard. It’s absolutely vital that we build in the support to sustain our educators, our schools and the children of our future. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for more info! Read more from Stacey! Stacey Brake, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Stacey Brake is leading the charge in mental health education. Anxiety Detox is the solution for those who suffer from anxiety but don't want to go to therapy. This online program is designed to help you reduce your anxiety and reconnect with your joy. With Stacey Brake's 18 years of experience in mental health, she has created a program that is simple, easy to follow, and most importantly, effective.

Written by: Mike Ciabatti, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. The Silent Guardians. Behind every great leader are those who work tirelessly to ensure their safety and well-being. These silent guardians operate in the shadows, remaining vigilant and steadfast in their duty to protect. In a world where power and influence can attract danger, their presence becomes an essential shield, allowing the leaders they serve to focus on shaping the course of history. In the following pages, I, Mike Ciabatti, will share my account of serving as an executive protection agent for Thomas Bach, the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). From navigating the treacherous landscape of politics and diplomacy to facing the unexpected perils of nature, my experiences have given me unique insights into the delicate balance of skills and determination required to excel in this demanding profession. As you delve into my story, I invite you to step into the shoes of a protector to experience the exhilaration, the challenges, and the quiet triumphs that come with standing in the shadows of greatness. This is not just the tale of one man's journey but a testament to the unwavering commitment of those who dedicate their lives to safeguarding the people who have the power to change the world. A New Assignment When I received the call that I would be assigned to protect Thomas Bach, the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), I knew I was stepping into a role that would demand the highest level of dedication, vigilance, and expertise. As the head of the sports world, Bach's influence extended beyond athletics. With a seat at the United Nations General Assembly, he was uniquely positioned to foster peace between nations through the universal language of sports. The gravity of this responsibility was still on me, and I was eager to rise to the challenge. Before my assignment to protect Bach, I had already accumulated years of experience in various security roles. From my military service to private security, each stage of my career equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle the unique challenges of protecting a high-profile individual. However, I also understood that assignments were never the same, and I was prepared to adapt to the specific demands of my new role. In the days leading up to my first meeting with Bach, I meticulously researched his background, schedule, and personal preferences. Familiarizing myself with his daily routine and understanding his priorities were critical to providing seamless security. I also studied the security protocols of the IOC. I contacted my network of security professionals to gather any relevant information that would help me better protect my client. As I delved deeper into the world of the IOC, I gained a newfound appreciation for the complex interplay of sports, politics, and diplomacy. I quickly realized that protecting Bach would involve ensuring his physical safety and safeguarding his reputation and the image of the organization he represented. Upon meeting Thomas Bach, I was struck by his genuine passion for sports and unwavering commitment to promoting peace and understanding through athletic competition. He was a man who understood the power of sports to unite people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and he dedicated his life to furthering this cause. As his executive protection agent, I knew that my duty was to protect him from harm and support his mission in any way I could. In the weeks and months that followed, I became intimately acquainted with the inner workings of the IOC and the demanding schedule of its president. My role as an executive protection agent became increasingly complex and multifaceted, from traveling to various international events, coordinating with local authorities, and navigating the intricate web of political relationships and obligations. As I settled into my new assignment, I became acutely aware of the need to balance vigilance with discretion. Bach's position required him to interact with various individuals, from world leaders and diplomats to athletes and coaches. It was essential that I maintained a low profile and avoided disrupting these interactions while remaining alert to any potential threats. In the high-stakes world of international sports and politics, I knew that even the slightest misstep could have far-reaching consequences. With each passing day, I became more determined to excel in my role as a protector and to ensure the safety and success of Thomas Bach as he worked tirelessly to make the world a better place through the power of sports. A Life of Service My journey in the world of executive protection began long before I was assigned to safeguard Thomas Bach. The foundation of my skills and expertise can be traced back to my time in the military, where I learned the importance of discipline, strategic thinking, and physical prowess. My experiences in the armed forces shaped my character and instilled in me a strong sense of duty and commitment to serving others. After leaving the military, I sought new challenges and opportunities to put my skills to use. I found my calling in private security, where I worked diligently to hone my craft and make a name for myself. Over time, I became known as one of the best in the business, earning my peers and clients' trust and respect. In those early years of my career, I had the opportunity to work on a wide range of assignments, each with its unique set of challenges and demands. From protecting high-profile corporate executives to providing security for international events, I learned the importance of adaptability, quick thinking, and a keen eye for detail. These experiences prepared me for the rigors of protecting someone as influential as Thomas Bach and taught me the value of continuously learning and evolving in my profession. As an executive protection agent for a high-profile individual like Thomas Bach, my daily responsibilities extended far beyond ensuring his physical safety. Planning his agenda, arranging secure travel, and coordinating with local authorities became essential aspects of my job. Moreover, I needed to know the political landscape and understand how it could impact my client and his organization. I took pride in my efforts in allowing Thomas Bach to focus on his mission of promoting peace and understanding through sports without worrying about his safety. In this role, I often worked long hours and traveled extensively. While the demands of the job were considerable, the satisfaction of knowing that I was making a meaningful difference in my client's life and the organization he represented made the sacrifices worthwhile. Over time, I developed a deep understanding of Bach's priorities, preferences, and the unique challenges he faced as the president of the IOC. This understanding allowed me to become an indispensable part of his team, providing security, advice, and support when necessary. Throughout my career, I have always believed that the key to success in executive protection lies in fostering strong relationships built on trust and mutual respect. By cultivating such relationships with my client, his staff, and other key stakeholders, I created a secure environment that enabled Thomas Bach to carry out his important work without disruption. As the years went by, I continued to grow and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of international sports and politics. With each new challenge and opportunity, I became more determined to excel as a protector, driven by my commitment to safeguarding the people who have the power to change the world. Navigating the Political Landscape As Bach's protector, I was often tasked with navigating the intricate world of diplomacy. The intersection of sports and politics is a complex and sometimes treacherous landscape, filled with potential pitfalls and challenges. As the president of the IOC, Thomas Bach was required to attend high-profile events and meetings with heads of state, diplomats, and other influential figures. It was crucial to remain neutral and avoid controversy, as any misstep could have far-reaching implications for Bach, the IOC, and the world of sports. One of the most important aspects of my role was understanding the delicate balance of power and influence that underpinned the world of international sports and politics. This understanding allowed me to anticipate potential threats, mitigate risks, and ensure my client remained safe while maintaining a low profile. My job involved staying informed about global events and their potential impact on the IOC and its president. I closely monitored news outlets, analyzed intelligence reports, and maintained a network of contacts in various countries to gather crucial information. This constant vigilance enabled me to stay one step ahead of potential threats and keep my client safe. In addition to staying informed, my role required me to develop strong relationships with local law enforcement and security agencies in each country we visited. These partnerships were essential in facilitating a secure environment for my client and allowed me to tap into local resources and expertise when necessary. Through careful coordination and communication, I created a security plan tailored to each location's unique challenges and risks. I often navigated a complex web of cultural norms, customs, and expectations during our travels. Understanding and respecting these nuances was essential to avoid causing offense or inadvertently jeopardizing my client's safety. I made it my mission to become well-versed in the etiquette and traditions of each country we visited, allowing me to blend seamlessly into any situation and maintain a discreet yet vigilant presence. As Thomas Bach's executive protection agent, I was constantly reminded of the importance of adaptability and flexibility. The ever-changing landscape of international politics and diplomacy demanded that I remain agile and ready to respond to new challenges immediately. I took pride in my ability to anticipate potential issues and adjust my approach accordingly, ensuring that my client always remained safe and secure. In the high-stakes world of diplomacy, I was an invisible presence at countless events and meetings, skillfully mitigating risks and ensuring my client remained safe while maintaining a low profile. My role required me to be assertive and discreet, balancing providing security and allowing my client to conduct his essential work without disruption. Reflecting on my experiences navigating the world of diplomacy, I am reminded of the immense responsibility of serving as an executive protection agent for a high-profile individual like Thomas Bach. It is a role that demands constant vigilance, an unwavering commitment to excellence, and the ability to navigate the complexities of politics and diplomacy with grace and skill. A Night to Remember During my time as Thomas Bach's executive protection agent, I faced a multitude of challenges and high-pressure situations. However, one of the most harrowing experiences occurred during a seemingly innocuous holiday in the Swiss Alps. Bach and his spouse had decided to spend some time away from the spotlight, enjoying the serenity and natural beauty of the mountains. Little did we know that Mother Nature had other plans. We were staying in a secluded chalet nestled deep within the alpine landscape. As part of my routine, I had been monitoring the weather conditions closely for the past 36 hours, as the region had been experiencing violent storms. Despite my vigilance, nothing could have prepared us for what was about to unfold. It was 2 am, and the storm outside had intensified, causing the river on the upper side of the mountain to overflow its banks. In an instant, the raging waters took half the mountain with them, threatening to engulf the chalet and everyone inside. I knew I had to act quickly to save my client and his spouse from imminent danger. Drawing on my experience and training, I formulated a plan to extract Bach and his spouse from the chalet and guide them to safety. My mind raced as I considered every possible scenario, contingency, and obstacle we might encounter during our escape. I knew that the key to success in this life-threatening situation was planning and anticipating any potential problems before they arose. I swiftly woke Bach and his spouse and briefed them on the situation, ensuring they remained as calm as possible. Together, we carefully navigated the treacherous terrain, avoiding debris and navigating around the areas most affected by the floodwaters. Throughout our escape, I remained focused and resolute, guiding my client and his spouse with the confidence and expertise from years of dedication to my profession. As we moved through the darkness, I could feel the weight of my responsibility bearing down on me. Thomas Bach and his spouse's lives were in my hands, and I was determined to see them to safety. Despite the danger and uncertainty surrounding us, I drew strength from my training and experience, trusting in my ability to solve problems before they even occurred. After what felt like an eternity, we finally reached higher ground, where we were met by a rescue team that had been alerted to our predicament. With immense relief, I watched Bach, and his spouse be ushered to safety, knowing that I had fulfilled my duty as their protector. The Swiss Alps incident was a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of being prepared for any eventuality. As an executive protection agent, I learned that the key to success in even the most challenging situations was a combination of planning, adaptability, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Reflections on a Life of Service Reflecting on my experiences as an executive protection agent, I recognize the importance of balancing hard and soft skills in this line of work. Hard skills, such as physical strength, weapons handling, and tactical planning, are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of the client. Equally important are soft skills, like effective communication, emotional intelligence, and adaptability, which allow for seamless navigation in complex and high-pressure situations. My journey in executive protection has taught me many valuable lessons, but perhaps the most important one is the power of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams. No matter how challenging or daunting the task may seem, the key to success lies in having the courage to face adversity and never give up. In the shadows of greatness, I have found my purpose and passion. As I continue to serve and protect those who shape our world, I am reminded of the importance of pursuing one's dreams and never backing down from a challenge. With the right balance of hard and soft skills, an unwavering commitment to excellence, and a relentless pursuit of one's goals, success is within reach for anyone willing to strive for it. So, to anyone considering a career in executive protection, or any challenging field, I offer this advice: belief in yourself, develop your skills, and never give up on your dreams. Through dedication and resilience, we forge our own paths and leave our mark on the world. Follow me on Instagram, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Mike! Mike Ciabatti, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Mike is a Swiss-American entrepreneur and innovator with a diverse background in both military and private security. He left the security industry to pursue his passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. He has created several successful businesses in various industries and is known for his ability to spot new trends and opportunities. Mike is also a devoted father and loves spending time with his family and dogs in the Swiss Alps. He's a great lover of nature and outdoor activities.

Written by: Vanina Pitsch, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. In honor of International Women’s Day, I would like to celebrate women all around the world and encourage individuals and organizations to strive to embrace equity. As a woman who once felt stuck professionally, I feel called to share the importance of becoming aware of what may be blocking you and what resources and/or tools you may require to continue growing in your career. Have you ever been in a position where you felt like you were working really hard and were convinced that you did all the right things, but felt unappreciated, unrecognized, and overworked? Well, at the beginning of my career this is exactly how I felt. I felt very frustrated, helpless, and did not know how to get “unstuck” in order to get promoted. Back then, I thought I was the only one who felt this way but with time I realized that I was not alone. And if you’re feeling this way too, you too are not alone. Based on McKinsey's article “Women in the Workplace 2022". “Women leaders are switching jobs at the highest rates we’ve ever seen, and ambitious young women are prepared to do the same”. One of the reasons is due to the fact that women tend to be overworked and unrecognized at work. They are also confronted with more challenges when it comes to advancing in their careers compared to men. But how does the idea of equity fit into the picture and how is it different from equality? According to this resource shared by the International Women’s Day organization, “...equality means each individual or group of people is given the same resources or opportunities. Equity in turn recognizes that each person has different circumstances, and allocates the exact resources and opportunities needed to reach an equal outcome.” Understanding this difference is important as most organizations strive to aim for gender parity and embrace equality in the workplace. While organizations need to provide professional development opportunities and create an inclusive work environment, they also need to start looking (if they haven’t already done so) at providing the right resources or tools for employees depending on their individual needs. On the flip side, employees are also responsible for expressing what tools and resources would be helpful for them to grow and thrive within an organization. The more self-aware you are, the further you can go, as you are able to clearly identify and express your professional needs to your manager. Here’s what employees can do in order to become more self-aware and advance their career as desired: Have the courage to take the first step Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and ask for help. Asking for help will get you where you want to be a lot faster. Be honest with yourself Try not to make excuses or make up stories that are not true. This won’t serve you and you will actually end up standing in your own way. Practice mindfulness or take a mindfulness training Mindfulness is mental training that helps you connect to the present moment in order to become more self-aware. Identify your limiting beliefs You can ask yourself what’s holding you back and see what’s coming up for you. Perhaps you’ll gain a lot of insight by simply answering this question. However, if you still feel stuck or you need more clarity about what’s holding you back, you can seek out a coach to help guide you (see next idea below). Seek out a career and leadership development coach A coach can help you find out what you may need in order to grow. He/she will also help you identify your limiting beliefs; by reflecting things back to you, and guide you towards your own realizations. Celebrate your successes As you become more aware of your needs and uncover your blind spots, celebrate any insights you gain as you get closer to providing yourself with and expressing what you may need. Tips for managers to help cultivate a culture of equity in the workplace: Provide feedback and lean into difficult conversations While this may be uncomfortable, you can open the door by letting your employees know that you are looking out for their best interests. Ask how you can support your team This will give you insights into what your employees may need on an individual basis and how you can adapt your support or find the right resources/tools to share for each member of your team. Ask for feedback so you can improve your leadership management skills This will give you an opportunity to reflect on your leadership skills while getting to know your employees as well. Conclusion You can embrace equity by starting with yourself. By practicing Mindfulness, you can become aware of your strengths as well as your areas that need improvement. And with that understanding, you can discover and ask for the tools and resources you need in order to excel in your role and work environment. When I think back to the time when I felt stuck, I started by looking at my situation from an objective point of view and accepted the situation for what it was. I also attempted to perceive what others were seeing when I was expressing myself in meetings. Their reactions and facial expressions helped me gain some insights into what I needed to take a closer look at. It’s from this place that I started to focus on certain skills that I wanted to develop. With that said, I could only get so far and decided to hire a life coach to help me gain perspective and work on myself. For instance, I have worked on setting boundaries for myself and being able to say no. I have also worked on my self-confidence and stopped doing things to please others. Instead I started to listen more to what I needed and made myself a priority. I know this may not exactly sound like what you would have expected but one of my biggest breakthroughs came from creating a solid foundation for myself, expressing my needs, and serving from a place of wholeness rather than trying to fill a void and trying to please everyone around me. While I am still a work-in-progress and believe that growth never ends, I have grown significantly in the last three years and I am now leading a team. I am also feeling grounded, centered, and empowered in my day-to-day at work. When you create a solid foundation for yourself and serve from a place of wholeness, your professional and personal life changes for the better. For more information about organizational mindfulness, you can read this article. I would also encourage you to check out these IWD resources, So you can find out what action steps you can take to aim to embrace equity. If you would like some support in learning how you can improve your self-awareness in order to advance your career, I would be happy to support you. You can book a free clarity call with me via this link. For information about my services, visit my website. For more content and inspiration, you can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Read more from Vanina! Vanina Pitsch, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Vanina Pitsch is a leadership development manager, mindset coach, and mindfulness facilitator. She is the founder of GloWell Coaching ‒ a coaching and mindfulness company aimed at bringing empathy and mindfulness into organizations and supporting professionals in their careers and life so they can evolve into their next-level selves. Certified as a Personal and Professional Coach (PPCC) from Concordia University, she offers a variety of different coaching packages and organizes online wellness events as well as urban wellness retreats for professionals and organizations. She believes in the power of the mind, leadership development, creating inclusive work environments, and teaching others to take care of their well-being. So they can serve from a place of wholeness and be in alignment with their soul’s purpose.

Written by: Dr. Blythe Mandmets, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Imagine a world where everyone knew how their body was designed to function optimally, how it’s designed to heal. A world where people understood their health was in their control. A world where people were awake to their power and design. Arguably we may not need health insurance companies in that scenario, but the reality is that we do need health insurance companies. Health insurance companies have our back, and now, by focusing on prevention, we have each other's back. When it comes to healthcare costs, prevention is the golden egg. This is especially true for health insurance companies who cover the mega-cost of medical procedures, hospitalizations, and medications. Implementing powerful wellness programs that actually work can help insurers reduce claims significantly, saving the health insurance companies big. Health Insurance companies take note! Not only does this benefit the insurance company, but it obviously greatly benefits the people they cover. Corporate wellness programs that focus on improving the mental, physical, and emotional health of a workforce can have innumerable benefits for the companies that implement them. This includes increased focus, creativity, innovation, and a positive corporate culture. But most importantly, it leads to better health which translates to lower healthcare costs for the company. Companies then have lower premiums to health insurance companies, but big money is still saved for the health insurer from significantly reduced claims. To the health insurance CEO, imagine if you had 50% fewer claims to pay. How can a wellness program guarantee a 50% reduction in claims? I hear you asking. The answer is simple, teach what actually works to regenerate the body optimally, and coach people to success. The body regenerates optimally in a slightly alkaline state, warding off degenerative diseases. This includes weakening eyesight, teeth problems, arthritis and other inflammatory responses, and even cancers and replacement surgeries. All of these very expensive procedures are caused by an acidic environment. Low-grade acidity is the root cause of every single degenerative disease. Science knows this, medicine does not practice this. Another big problem is that most wellness programs aren’t designed to teach people to look after their pH, to stay in the Regeneration Zone instead of the Degeneration Zone. Most people's pH is functioning in the degeneration zone right now because they do not know the power of their pH, and they are consuming too many acidic foods and having too many acidic thoughts. Stress creates an acidic environment in the body. Unforgiveness, self-sabotage, and other emotional and mental stressors create acidity in the body as well as a poor diet. Processed foods, animal foods, coffee, alcohol, and sugar contribute to acidity in the body. While some of these foods are fine to have in moderation, it's crucial to know the ratio, and no wellness program out there is actually teaching the correct alkaline-to-acid ratio for diet, except for one. We have found a powerful solution, BNL Corporate Vitality Programs are a game changer for health insurance companies. These programs get results for the clients and the workforce that no other wellness program can achieve. By focusing on prevention and teaching people how to get into an alkaline and oxygenated state, these programs drastically reduce the number of claims that health insurance companies receive. Focus On Prevention By focusing on prevention, health insurance companies can ultimately save billions of dollars and improve the lives of countless individuals. It's a win-win-win situation for everyone involved. Don’t you just love a win win win! Does your health insurance company offer wellness programs to their corporate clients? If you work for a health insurance company and would like to see BNL Corporate Vitality Programs implemented in your company, book a call to learn more. You want to partner with a program that has a track record of success in reducing claims and improving the health and vitality of people. Book a call today to bring BNL Corporate Vitality Programs to your company. Dr. Blythe Mandmets, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Dr. Blythe Metz-Mändmets is a thought leader, speaker, and Corporate Vitality Trainer who is passionate about helping people realize their self-healing potential. With a background in metaphysics and a focus on corporate wellness and vitality, she is dedicated to helping individuals and organizations improve their health and well-being. As a speaker, Dr. Metz-Mändmets covers a wide range of topics, including stress management, longevity, creating a culture of kindness to promote school safety, and empowering youth and adults to create the health and life experience they love. Her expertise in these areas has earned her a reputation as a top authority in the field.

Written by: Alana Kitari, Executive Contributor Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise. Embarking on your journey of healing childhood trauma can feel like a daunting task with many stumbling blocks along the way. When we find ourselves in endless loops of suffering, repeating the same patterns of trauma over and over again, we can feel like giving up! In fact, trauma is so prevalent in our society (regardless of your geographic location) that we can unknowingly be injecting ourselves with lies and delusions masquerading as truth when seeking out answers to our questions about HOW to break free from our trauma. Consider also that trauma is a leading cause of substance abuse and addiction (1), and it becomes clear why so many get lost in adulthood after surviving horrific childhoods. It takes great courage and determination to face the difficult emotions and challenges that healing trauma brings. The good news is that if you are dedicated to your desire to heal, then liberation is not only possible – it’s guaranteed! On the other side of your trauma, is a whole person – ready to live their best life! “Most people are afraid of suffering. But suffering is a kind of mud to help the lotus flower of happiness grow.” ‒ Thich Nhat Hanh Since healing trauma is messy and chaotic, I have outlined the 5 different stages you will move through as you continue down your healing path. But before getting into those, here are some tips to remember when you embark on this journey. Practice Self-Care It’s important to practice self-care as you move through your healing journey. You can try activities like exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep as well as stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, and journaling. Self-care means that you honor when you need to take a step back and take better care of yourself. Set Realistic Goals Healing your trauma is a lifelong process! Set realistic goals for yourself and be patient with your progress. Take your healing journey one day at a time, or even one breath at a time if you are in an active state of trauma. A realistic goal could be to learn how to better regulate one of your triggers or to uncover the root cause of one of your automatic reactions. Be Kind It is so important to practice self-compassion and non-judgment as you work through the healing process. This can be hard for a lot of people that are just starting their healing journey. It is easy to fall into feelings like shame and guilt, but do your best to remind yourself that you are healing and growing and that it’s okay to progress slowly, and even make mistakes along the way. The 5 Stages Healing from trauma is a journey that takes time, dedication, and resilience, but there IS a roadmap that you can follow to help you gauge where you are at in your healing journey. I have broken this journey down into 5 distinct stages. Please be aware that you can be moving through different stages for different areas of your trauma at any given moment. For example, you may be on stage 3 of healing your father wound, but in stage 1 of healing your wound of perfectionism. Also, there is no right or wrong way to move through these stages, whatever way YOU move through them – is the right way. Finally, these stages are my interpretation from my own healing journey and could look different for yours. Use this as a guide and roadmap, not a sacred teaching or set-in-stone ideology. 1st Stage The first stage of healing from trauma is recognizing that you need to heal! This may seem obvious, but it is a crucial step that is often overlooked. Many people who have experienced trauma may try to ignore or suppress their feelings and emotions or may not even realize that they are struggling with the effects of their childhood trauma. However, ignoring the need to heal can have serious consequences. Trauma will manifest in a variety of ways, including physical symptoms such as chronic pain or fatigue, emotional symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and difficulty with relationships, and spiritual symptoms like feeling disconnected from the Divine or being too rigid and dogmatic in your belief system. If trauma is left unaddressed, it can significantly impact your overall well-being and quality of life, not only affecting you personally but also spilling over onto everyone in your life. How do you recognize the need to heal? Here are some signs to look out for: Persistent negative emotions: If you are struggling with negative emotions such as anger, sadness, anxiety, depression, or fear regularly, it may be a sign that you are dealing with unresolved trauma. Physical symptoms: Trauma can manifest in physical symptoms such as chronic pain, headaches, inflammation, or fatigue. When the body is ill, it is because we are out of alignment and unresolved trauma will manifest in a variety of ways, masquerading as many types of diseases until we have learned how to heal. Difficulty with relationships: Trauma can impact your ability to trust and connect with others in a healthy way. It can present itself in one of two ways. First, it can display itself as being a perpetual victim, where you are always upset and offended at everything and everyone around you. Or secondly, it can manifest with you being the aggressor and displaying unhealthy qualities like manipulation, coercion, narcissism, angry outbursts, and even violence against another. For a lot of people with unresolved trauma, they will bounce back between these two in a perpetual cycle of being the abuser and being the victim. Difficulty managing daily life: Trauma can interfere with your ability to function in daily life. If you are struggling to meet your responsibilities at work or at home, or if you are having trouble taking care of yourself, it may be a sign that you need to heal. If you are experiencing any of these signs, it is important to seek healing and reach out for help if needed. Healing from trauma is not easy, however, taking the first step towards healing is a powerful and courageous act that can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being and quality of life. 2nd Stage Seeking outside help for perspective: This may involve seeking the support of a therapist, coach, or other mental health professionals like we already talked about or joining a support group or online community with others who have experienced similar trauma. Why is it important to seek outside help? Trauma can distort your perspective: Trauma can affect your ability to see things objectively and make it difficult to process your experiences in a healthy way. A coach or support group can provide a fresh perspective and help you to see things in a more balanced way. Healing from trauma requires self-exploration: Healing from trauma often involves exploring difficult emotions and memories. This can be challenging to do on your own, and it may be helpful to have the support and guidance of a trained professional to keep you motivated to continue down your path of healing when it gets more difficult. Support is crucial: Healing from trauma is often a lonely and isolating experience. Seeking support from others who have experienced similar trauma can provide a sense of connection and understanding and can help you to feel less alone on your healing journey. Professional help can be more effective: While it can be helpful to talk to friends and family about your experiences, a therapist, coach, or support group can provide a deeper level of support and guidance. They can also offer specific tools and techniques to help you cope with your feelings and work through your trauma. Seeking outside help is a brave and important step toward healing from trauma. It may be scary to reach out for support, but it can lead to significant improvements in your well-being and quality of life. If you are struggling with the effects of trauma, don’t hesitate to seek the help you need. 3rd Stage The third stage of healing trauma is practicing self-compassion and non-judgment with yourself as you explore your trauma at a deeper level. This may seem counterintuitive, as many people who have experienced trauma feel guilty or responsible for what happened to them. However, self-blame and self-judgment will completely hinder your healing process and keep you bound to suffering. As you discover ways to explore your inner world through different modalities and therapies, it is crucial to remember that you deserve love and compassion throughout your healing journey. Be kind to yourself and remind yourself often, that even though this healing process is hard, it will be worth it on the other side of your healing. Even if you have done terrible things in the past to yourself or others due to your unresolved trauma, it is important to suspend your critical judgment and give yourself grace. We are all messed up, flawed, and fractured beings until we have healed. Remember that you are now on your healing journey, and that is what matters most. Here are some ways to practice self-compassion and non-judgment: You’re not alone: Many people who have experienced trauma feel isolated and alone. It can be helpful to remember that you are not alone and that others have gone through similar experiences. if you have found a good support group, then you will know for sure that you are definitely not alone. You’re doing the best you can: Trauma can have a profound impact on your ability to cope with daily life. Remember that you’re doing the best you can under difficult circumstances and try to be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of bringing your attention to the present moment without judgment. This can help you to let go of self-blame and self-judgment and to be more accepting of your experiences as you heal. Have fun: Engaging in activities that bring you joy and a sense of happiness and fulfillment, no matter how small, can help to boost your mood and improve your overall well-being. Working through trauma is challenging, so taking breaks to just have fun is super important! Reframing: If you are working through something incredibly challenging it can be helpful to reframe your experience. You can move away from viewing it as your adult self and instead look at it through the lens of your wounded inner child. This can immediately bring up self-compassion for the child that was mistreated and cultivate feelings of love and non-judgment towards yourself. Practicing self-compassion and non-judgment can be challenging, but it is an important step toward healing. You cannot heal what you don’t face, so learning how to face your trauma, fears, & phobias, through compassion and non-judgment is the only way you can break free from your bondage. 4th Stage The fourth stage of healing from trauma is shadow work, which involves exploring and integrating the “shadow” aspects of the self. The shadow refers to the unconscious aspects of the self that we tend to repress or deny, such as negative emotions, unresolved traumas, and unhealed wounds. Why is shadow work important in the healing process? Break free from suffering: When we repress or deny our shadow aspects, they will manifest in unhealthy ways, often through self-destructive behaviors or repeated cycles of toxic relationships. But when we learn how to explore and integrate the shadow, we learn healthy ways of coping with difficult emotions and experiences and set ourselves free from suffering. Greater self-awareness: Exploring the shadow can help us to become more self-aware and understand ourselves better. This can lead to greater self-acceptance and self-compassion, which are essential for personal growth and well-being. Heal unresolved wounds: Many people who have experienced trauma have unresolved wounds that may be contributing to their suffering. By exploring and addressing these wounds through shadow work, we can begin the healing process. Common wounds that people need healing from are the mother/father wound, the wound of unworthiness, the wound of abandonment, and the wound of suppression. Break patterns of negative behavior: Our shadow aspects can influence our behavior in negative ways, such as through self-sabotage or unhealthy relationships. By exploring and integrating the shadow, we can break these patterns of negative behavior and create healthier ways of being in the world. Shadow work can be challenging, as it involves facing difficult emotions and experiences. However, it can be a powerful tool for healing and personal growth. If you are interested in exploring shadow work, it may be helpful to seek the support of a therapist or other trained professional. 5th Stage The fifth and final stage of healing from trauma is understanding that we heal in layers and that we will continue to heal as we work through the other stages repeatedly, deepening our level of healing each time. This can be a difficult concept to grasp, as we often want to believe that we can “fix” our problems and move on. However, the reality is that healing from trauma is a lifelong process. Why is it important to understand that we heal in layers? Here are some reasons: Healing from trauma is NOT a one-time event: Trauma can have a profound impact on our lives and can affect us in many different ways. As such, healing from trauma is not a one-time event, but rather a process that unfolds over time. Healing happens in stages: It is common to go through different stages as we heal from trauma, such as recognizing the need to heal, seeking outside help, practicing self-compassion, and doing shadow work. Understanding that we heal in stages can help us to be more patient and compassionate with ourselves as we work through the healing process. We will continue to heal as we work through the stages repeatedly: As we work through the stages of healing, we may find that certain issues or emotions come up again and again. This is a normal part of the process, and it is an opportunity to continue to heal and grow. Healing deepens over time: As we work through the stages of healing repeatedly, we can deepen our level of healing. This can lead to greater self-awareness, self-acceptance, and a sense of peace and contentment. Understanding that we heal in layers can be a helpful perspective to have as we work through the healing process. It can help us to be more patient and compassionate with ourselves, and to recognize that healing is a lifelong journey. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram and visit my website for more info! Read more from Alana! Alana Kitari, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine Alana Kitari is an Empowerment Coach, Mystic, Interfaith Minister, Speaker, Author, & Guide that assists others in healing deeply-ingrained trauma through a variety of modalities in order to live an empowered and authentic life. She specializes in helping her clients achieve deep internal transformation through ancestral shadow work, mindfulness, trauma recovery, & a variety of energy healing modalities operated through the lens of Divine Love & scientific understanding. Through her courses, masterclasses, and 1:1 coaching, Alana helps you turn your trauma into triumph.