Ambition may no longer be a dirty word but as a desirable, female quality it certainly doesn’t feel squeaky clean. I asked my friends what the term ‘ambitious woman’ conjured up for them, and they reported the following: Sigourney Weaver in Working Girl, stiletto heels, Dior Poison perfume and being a bitch to get ahead. … Read more
It’s not easy to write a review of Matt Haig’s The Comfort Book. Not because it’s badly written, or dull or unoriginal. But just because it’s all so pleasant and reassuring, that there’s not a lot to say. The book is ideal for the coffee table, the bedside table, or as a gift for friends. … Read more
Leaving the UK for a holiday abroad is currently risky business. Rapid flow tests, isolation periods, and worrying about loved ones back home does not a relaxing break make. For all these reasons, why not embrace the staycation? No longer the less glamorous alternative to a trip abroad, the staycation is great for your mental … Read more
The complete title for this book is a long one. So, deep breath; Re-educated. How I changed my job, my home, my husband and my hair. Before I began this book I was fascinated to discover how the author had successfully managed so much change. Change, whether planned or not, is one of the key … Read more
It may be good to talk, but for some people it can feel really bad. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve experienced trauma, take a while to trust or just come from a family that don’t ‘do’ feelings. Speaking out loud about your inner world can be frightening. I have to admit that when I first … Read more
As a therapist I believe in the healing power of talking. But for some people, speaking about how they feel is an almost impossible task. They withdraw into a world of their own, and silence becomes their sanctuary. Harriet Shawcross’s book, Unspeakable The Things we Cannot Say, takes a look at the limits of language … Read more
Hopefully you’ve now had time to heal your heartbreak over England not winning the Euros (although, I’d guess you’re probably still devastated about the racism and domestic violence). But whatever your thoughts on football, daring to embrace your dream only to have it snatched away is painful. A proper stomach sinking, tightness in the chest, … Read more
My very first counselling placement was within bereavement. Where I listened as clients explored their grief. Often they spoke of shock, sometimes abandonment and occasionally a sense of overwhelm. Reflecting on this work, I’m struck by how inept words are to express the raw, desperate, profound feelings that death can deliver to those left behind. … Read more
From the moment I started earning money, I have been desperate to spend it. I hear the siren call of the shops, wherever I am. For me a day without an Amazon package is dull and grey. But when I know my doorbell will be ringing with deliveries, there’s fission and purpose in the air. … Read more
I’m so used to studying heavy going mental health books that reading entrepreneur Anya Hindmarch’s, If in Doubt Wash Your Hair, was like a mini break for the mind. There’s no trauma, grief or suicide here, just Anya’s common sense advice on how to live a more fulfilling life. From the chic front cover (sunny … Read more
We’re now half way through the year, which is the perfect point to reflect on how you feel. And, if you’re among the majority of people who made glittering new year’s resolutions back in January, only to find they’ve fallen by the wayside, then don’t worry. There is still plenty of time to get galvanised … Read more
If I were to say women weightlifters, what would your first reaction be? Because, if like many people, you instantly think ‘unattractive and unfeminine’ then you may want to take a look at Stronger by Poorna Bell. Within the 300 pages of Stronger, Poorna makes more salient, incisive points around female fitness than I’ve found … Read more