Relational Best with Amanda Williamson

Last November, my friend and fellow therapist Harry Toogood and I created our own 7 day DIY yoga retreat in Morocco. We immersed ourselves in yoga philosophy and practice, with three hours of practice each day alongside   Satsang (or 'being in the company of truth") , where we delved into and discussed the   Yoga Sutras of Patanjali . Our discussions focused on the   five Vrittis ; the mental fluctuations that shape perception and suffering. These ideas have stayed with us and we continue to explore the concepts during our regular walks and sea swims. At the start of the retreat, to deepen our practice, we adopted the chant  Asato Maa Sat Gamaya , finding a particularly evocative recording by Ravi Shankar and George Harrison. Chanting has been shown to enhance clarity of thought by reducing mental clutter and fostering mindfulness ( Brandmeyer & Delorme, 2013 ). Chanting stimulates the vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and emotional regulation by activating the ...

Divorce ranks among the most challenging experiences adults can face, second only to the death of a spouse on the  Holmes-Rahe Stress Inventory . However, achieving a fulfilling life post-divorce is possible. Here I give some pointers on how you might approach this huge change in life circumstances. The Importance of Grieving The end of a marriage, civil partnership or long-term relationship, is a profound loss. It's essential to grieve this loss, regardless of who initiated the separation. Allowing yourself to process the associated emotions brings you closer to acceptance and the ability to move forward.   Practical Steps: Seek Support:  Engage with friends, family members, or support groups. Sharing your feelings can foster mutual openness and healing. Professional Guidance:  Consider counselling services, coaching, or consulting with a sympathetic GP to navigate your emotions.   Embracing New Opportunities Post-divorce life offers a chance to forge new frien...