by Restore. Renew. Revive. | Apr 4, 2023 | Anxiety, Depression, Emotions, mental health
Many women face significant challenges when it comes to mental health, including anxiety, depression, and other related issues. One critical factor that affects mental health in women is self-esteem. Low self-esteem can have a profound impact on women’s mental health, leading to negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that can impede personal growth and overall well-being. Therefore, it is essential for women to understand how self-esteem affects mental health and to take proactive steps to improve their self-esteem and overall mental health.
Having a low self-esteem is something many people of all ages deal with. Low self-esteem is not considered a mental health disorder in and of itself. However, it can be a contributing factor to the development or exacerbation of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. Additionally, low self-esteem can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, relationships, and overall well-being. Therefore, it is important to address and improve low self-esteem to promote mental health and overall wellness.
What is Self-Esteem?
Self-esteem refers to the value, worth, and belief that an individual has in themselves. It is a critical component of mental health and affects every aspect of an individual’s life. Self-esteem can be influenced by various factors, such as personal experiences, social interactions, and cultural value
Someone with a healthy or high self-esteem thinks positively about themselves and their abilities. They believe they are deserving of respect and have no problems setting healthy boundaries.
Individuals with low self-esteems do not feel very good about themselves. They constantly measure themselves against others and always come up short. They may not think they are worthy of love and respect and will typically not set healthy boundaries, allowing others to take advantage of them.
How Does a Low Self-Esteem Affect Mental Health?
Low self-esteem can have a profound impact on mental health. Women with low self-esteem often experience negative thoughts and feelings about themselves, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Low self-esteem can also affect women’s relationships, career, and overall quality of life.
Women with low self-esteem may struggle with making decisions, asserting themselves, and setting boundaries. They may also engage in self-destructive behaviors, such as substance abuse, disordered eating, or self-harm.
The following are some ways a low self-esteem can impact a person’s mental health:
Poor Relationships
Human beings are wired for connections. But when we have low self-esteem, we tend to not put ourselves “out there” socially and even tend to isolate, which can lead to poor relationships and loneliness.
Addiction
Studies have indicated low self-esteem in childhood can lead to addictions later in life. Mandy addicts use alcohol and other substances as a way to cope with negative feelings about themselves.
Depression and Anxiety
Living with low self-esteem day after day, week after week, can very much take its toll and eventually lead to the development of depression and anxiety.
The Importance of High Self-Esteem for Mental Health
High self-esteem is essential for mental health and overall well-being. Women with high self-esteem are more likely to have positive self-talk, feel confident, and be resilient. They are also more likely to set healthy boundaries, engage in self-care, and pursue their goals.
Women with high self-esteem are better equipped to handle life’s challenges, including stressful situations, setbacks, and failures. They are also more likely to form healthy relationships, communicate effectively, and have a positive outlook on life.
Strategies to Improve Self-Esteem and Mental Health
Challenge Negative Self-Talk
Negative self-talk is a common obstacle to self-esteem and mental health. Women can improve their self-esteem by challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with positive affirmations. This can involve reframing negative statements into positive ones, such as “I am capable and competent” instead of “I am not good enough.”
Practice Self-Care
Self-care is an essential aspect of improving self-esteem and mental health. Women should prioritize activities that bring joy, relaxation, and fulfillment, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies. Self-care also involves taking care of physical health, such as maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and limiting substance use.
Set Realistic Goals
Setting realistic goals is crucial for improving self-esteem and mental health. Women should set goals that align with their values, interests, and abilities. They should also break down larger goals into smaller, achievable steps, which can boost self-confidence and motivation.
Surround Yourself with Positive People
The people we surround ourselves with can have a significant impact on our self-esteem and mental health. Women should seek out positive, supportive relationships and limit contact with toxic or negative individuals.
Seek Professional Help
If low self-esteem is affecting mental health, seeking professional help is crucial. A therapist or counselor can provide guidance, support, and treatment for mental health issues, including low self-esteem.
Conclusion
Self-esteem is a critical factor affecting mental health in women. Low self-esteem can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, while high self-esteem can lead to resilience, confidence, and overall well-being. Women can improve their self-esteem and mental health by challenging negative self-talk, practicing self-care, setting realistic goals, surrounding themselves with positive people, and seeking professional help when necessary. By prioritizing self-esteem and mental health, women can lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.
If you are struggling with low self-esteem or other mental health issues, seeking professional help can make a significant difference. Restore Renew Revive Counselling & Couples Therapy offers a safe and supportive environment where women can explore their thoughts and emotions and develop practical strategies for improving their mental health and overall well-being. To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, please visit our website at https://restorecounselling.ca or call us at 902-702-7722. Don’t hesitate to reach out – we are here to help.
SOURCES:
https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/July-2016/Why-Self-Esteem-Is-Important-for-Mental-Health
https://www.hormona.io/why-self-esteem-affects-your-mental-health/
https://fherehab.com/learning/self-esteem-mental-health
by Restore. Renew. Revive. | Apr 1, 2023 | counseling
Many people experience a sense of dread or anxiety on Sunday evenings, commonly referred to as the Sunday scaries. This feeling can be especially difficult for those who do not enjoy their job or school environment, or who have a lot of work to do in the coming week. If you’re one of the many people who experience the Sunday scaries, you may be looking for ways to manage these feelings and reduce your stress levels. In this article, we’ll explore some strategies for coping with the Sunday scaries and alleviating your anxiety.
What are “The Sunday Scaries”
The Sunday scaries is a term used to describe the anxious or uneasy feeling that some people experience on Sunday evenings, often as a result of anticipating the start of a new workweek or school week.
This feeling can be characterized by a sense of dread, worry, or sadness, and can be accompanied by physical symptoms such as headaches or upset stomach. It can be especially common for people who do not enjoy their job or school environment or who have a lot of work to do.
How Common Are “The Sunday Scaries”
The Sunday scaries are a common experience, with many people reporting feeling anxious or uneasy on Sunday evenings as they anticipate the start of a new work or school week. According to a survey conducted by LinkedIn, over 80% of American workers experience the Sunday scaries to some extent. Another study conducted by Monster found that 76% of survey respondents reported experiencing Sunday night anxiety. So, if you experience the Sunday scaries, you’re definitely not alone.
How Can I Manage “The Sunday Scaries”
The Sunday scaries can be difficult to manage, but there are some strategies that can help.
These may include:
Planning ahead: Taking time on Friday or Saturday to plan out your tasks and schedule for the coming week can help you feel more organized and in control.
Engaging in relaxing activities: Taking time for activities that you enjoy and find relaxing, such as reading a book, taking a bath, or doing yoga, can help to alleviate anxiety and stress.
Connecting with others: Spending time with friends or family members, or even connecting with them over the phone or online, can help you feel supported and less alone in your worries.
Practicing Gratitude:. Using a gratitude practice is a powerful tool for managing the Sunday scaries. When you focus on the things you are grateful for, it can help shift your perspective and reduce your feelings of anxiety and stress.
Keep a gratitude journal: Take a few minutes each day to write down things you are grateful for. This could be anything from a delicious cup of coffee to a kind word from a friend. By focusing on the good things in your life, you may find it easier to manage your feelings of anxiety on Sunday evenings.
Practice gratitude meditation: Set aside some time each day to meditate on the things you are grateful for. You can do this by simply closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths, then visualizing the things you are thankful for. As you do this, try to focus on the feelings of gratitude and appreciation that come up.
Write a gratitude letter: Think of someone in your life who has had a positive impact on you, and write them a letter expressing your gratitude. This could be a teacher, a family member, or a friend. By expressing your gratitude, you may find that your own feelings of anxiety and stress are reduced.
Practice Self-Compassion:Remember, it’s important to be kind to yourself and acknowledge that feeling anxious or stressed on Sundays is a common experience. By implementing some of these strategies, you may be able to alleviate your Sunday scaries and approach the new week with a greater sense of ease and calm.
Seeking support: If the Sunday scaries are significantly impacting your quality of life or ability to function, it may be helpful to seek support from a therapist or mental health professional who can help you develop coping strategies and manage your symptoms.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can also be an effective approach for managing the Sunday scaries. ACT is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that helps individuals develop psychological flexibility and learn to live in the present moment.
If you’re struggling with the Sunday scaries or any other mental health concerns, seeking support from a mental health professional can be helpful. Restore Renew Revive Counselling & Couples Therapy offers compassionate and evidence-based therapy services for individuals and couples in the Halifax, Nova Scotia area. If you’re interested in learning more about our services or scheduling an appointment, please visit our website at https://restorecounselling.ca or give us a call at 902-702-7722.
SOURCES:
https://www.counseling.org/news/aca-blogs/aca-counseling-corner/aca-counseling-corner-blog/2018/03/01/knowing-when-to-ask-for-help#:~:text=If%20you’re%20facing%20a,to%20seek%20out%20professional%20help
https://jedfoundation.org/resource/mental-health-warning-signs-and-when-to-ask-for-help/
https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/sponsor-story/burrell-behavioral-health/2022/05/02/mental-health-matters-knowing-when-ask-help/9558636002/
by Restore. Renew. Revive. | Apr 1, 2023 | panic attacks
Anxiety is a normal human emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. However, when anxiety becomes excessive and interferes with daily life, it can lead to panic attacks. Panic attacks are sudden, intense surges of fear or discomfort that can cause physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and trembling.
If you’ve ever experienced a panic attack, you know the feeling. Within seconds you can go from feeling quite well and “ordinary” to experiencing absolute dread and fear. And often with no obvious trigger.
Panic attacks can be frightening and overwhelming, but there are techniques you can use to help manage them. In this article, we’ll discuss five strategies for stopping a panic attack.
1. Recognize What’s Happening
One technique from ACT, or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is called diffusion, which involves learning to distance yourself from negative thoughts and feelings.
When you experience anxiety or a panic attack, your mind may become flooded with negative thoughts and fears. These thoughts can be overwhelming and may contribute to the intensity of your symptoms. Diffusion involves learning to observe these thoughts without becoming attached to them or letting them control you.
To practice diffusion, try the following steps:
Notice the negative thought or feeling. Acknowledge it without judgment or resistance.
Observe the thought or feeling. Rather than trying to push it away or change it, simply observe it as if it is a passing cloud in the sky.
Label the thought or feeling. Give it a name, such as “anxiety” or “fear,” to help you recognize it more easily in the future.
Create distance between yourself and the thought or feeling. Imagine the thought or feeling as a separate entity from yourself, rather than something that defines you.
By practicing diffusion, you can learn to become less reactive to negative thoughts and feelings, which can ultimately reduce the intensity of anxiety and panic attacks. Remember, it takes practice to develop this skill, so be patient with yourself and keep trying.
2. Deep Breathing
Breathing techniques can be a helpful tool for managing panic attacks. When experiencing a panic attack, your body may feel like it is out of control, and your breathing can become rapid and shallow. Practicing breath work can help slow down your breathing and reduce feelings of panic. Keep your eyes open and ground yourself in your surroundings while you are doing your breath work.
Here are some techniques for breath work during a panic attack:
Diaphragmatic breathing: Also known as “belly breathing,” this technique involves breathing deeply into your abdomen, rather than your chest. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your belly to expand. Exhale slowly through your mouth, allowing your belly to contract.
4-7-8 breathing: This technique involves inhaling for four seconds, holding your breath for seven seconds, and exhaling for eight seconds. Repeat this cycle several times, focusing on the counting and the sensation of your breath.
Alternate nostril breathing: Alternate nostril breathing involves closing one nostril with your finger and inhaling deeply through the other nostril. Then, close the other nostril and exhale through the first nostril. Repeat this cycle, alternating nostrils with each breath.
Remember, it’s important to practice these techniques regularly, not just during a panic attack. This will help you become more familiar with the techniques and make them more effective when you need them most.
3. Practice Mindfulness
Panic attacks tend to cause a feeling of detachment or separation from reality. Mindfulness is powerful because it can help you stay fully present in the here and now and help manage panic attacks. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, and can help you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions during a panic attack.
Three mindfulness activities you can use during a panic attack are:
Using a mantra: A mantra is a word or phrase that you repeat to yourself to help calm your mind. Choose a word or phrase that has a calming effect on you, such as “peace” or “calm,” and repeat it to yourself as you focus on your breath.
Practice body scanning: Body scanning involves paying attention to the physical sensations in your body. Start at the top of your head and work your way down to your toes, noticing any areas of tension or discomfort. As you become more aware of your body, try to release any tension you may be holding.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation:Progressive muscle relaxation is a technique that involves tensing and then relaxing different muscle groups in the body. This can help reduce physical tension and promote relaxation. Start with your toes and work your way up to your head, tensing each muscle group for a few seconds before releasing the tension.
Remember, it’s important to practice these techniques regularly, not just during a panic attack. This will help you become more familiar with the techniques and make them more effective when you need them most.
5. Get Help
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a type of therapy that can be helpful in managing panic and anxiety. ACT is based on the idea that trying to avoid or control uncomfortable thoughts and feelings can actually make them worse. Instead, ACT focuses on accepting these thoughts and feelings, and learning to live a meaningful life despite them.
If you are struggling with anxiety or panic attacks, seeking the help of a trained therapist can be beneficial in managing your symptoms and improving your overall well-being. Restore Renew Revive Counselling & Couples Therapy offers individual therapy services for anxiety and panic, as well as couples therapy to help you and your partner navigate these challenges together. If you’re interested in learning more about our services or scheduling an appointment, please call us at 902-702-7722 or visit our website at https://restorecounselling.ca.
SOURCES:
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-stop-a-panic-attack
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321510
https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-stop-a-panic-attack-5202930
by Restore. Renew. Revive. | Apr 1, 2023 | Trauma / PTSD
Trauma is a complex issue that can have a significant impact on women’s lives. Unfortunately, many women face a range of societal and cultural factors that can make them more vulnerable to experiencing trauma, such as gender inequality and violence against women. This can lead to a range of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms that can make it difficult for women to move forward in their healing journey
Women, in particular, may be more likely to experience trauma due to various societal and cultural factors. Understanding what trauma is and what causes it can help women better identify and seek support for their healing journey.
What is Trauma?
Trauma is a psychological and emotional response to an event or experience that is deeply distressing or disturbing. Traumatic events can be experienced directly or indirectly and may include experiences such as physical or sexual abuse, natural disasters, accidents, terrorism, or the sudden death of a loved one. Trauma can also be experienced vicariously, such as through witnessing violence or hearing about a loved one’s traumatic experience.
Trauma occurs when an individual’s nervous system is overwhelmed by an event or experience that exceeds their ability to cope. The body’s natural response to stress is to activate the sympathetic nervous system, which prepares the body for fight or flight. However, when the stress is overwhelming or prolonged, the nervous system can become stuck in a state of hyperarousal, leading to a range of physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms. This can result in a chronic state of stress and anxiety, making it difficult for individuals to feel safe or calm, even in non-threatening situations.
What Causes Trauma for Women?
Women are more likely than men to experience certain types of trauma, such as sexual assault and domestic violence. This is often due to societal and cultural factors that perpetuate gender inequality and violence against women. Women who have experienced trauma may also face additional challenges, such as stigma and shame, that can make it difficult to seek support and healing.
Some common causes of trauma in women include:
Sexual assault: Women are more likely than men to experience sexual assault, which can cause long-term physical and psychological harm.
Domestic violence: Women are also more likely to experience domestic violence, which can include physical, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Childhood trauma: Women who experienced trauma during childhood, such as neglect or abuse, may be more likely to experience trauma later in life.
Systemic oppression: Women who belong to marginalized communities, such as BIPOC women and LGBTQ2S+ women, may experience trauma as a result of systemic oppression and discrimination.
The Impact of Trauma on Women
Trauma can have a profound impact on women’s physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing.
Some common symptoms of trauma in women include:
Flashbacks and nightmares
Hypervigilance and paranoia
Anxiety and depression
Substance abuse
Chronic pain and health problems
Difficulty with relationships and intimacy
Difficulty with trust and safety
It’s important to note that not all women who have experienced trauma will experience the same symptoms or have the same level of impact on their lives. However, seeking support and healing is essential for women who have experienced trauma to move forward in their healing journey.
How Can Trauma be Treated?
Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) is a relatively new form of therapy that combines elements of emotion-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and somatic therapy to treat trauma. EFIT focuses on helping individuals process and integrate traumatic memories by using emotion-focused techniques to help individuals connect with and process their emotions.
EFIT recognizes that trauma can lead to difficulties regulating emotions, which can lead to a range of emotional and psychological symptoms. By working with the emotions that are triggered by the trauma, EFIT can help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories in a way that feels safe and manageable.
During EFIT sessions, the therapist helps the client to identify the emotions that are triggered by the traumatic event and to explore the underlying beliefs and assumptions that contribute to those emotions. The therapist then works with the client to reframe those beliefs and assumptions and to develop new ways of thinking and feeling about the traumatic event.
EFIT also incorporates somatic techniques to help individuals connect with their physical sensations and release physical tension related to trauma.
Overall, EFIT can be a powerful tool for trauma treatment, particularly for individuals who have difficulty accessing their emotions or who have experienced complex trauma. As with any trauma treatment, it’s important to work with a qualified mental health professional who has experience in these modalities to ensure that treatment is tailored to the individual’s unique needs and experiences.
Somatic therapy can also be an effective approach for trauma treatment because it recognizes that trauma is not just a psychological issue but also has physical manifestations. Trauma can become trapped in the body, leading to chronic pain, tension, and other physical symptoms. By working with the body’s physical responses to trauma, somatic therapy can help individuals release these physical symptoms and process the emotional trauma.
If you or someone you know is struggling with trauma, it’s important to seek support from a qualified mental health professional. At Restore Renew Revive Counselling & Couples Therapy, we offer trauma-informed therapy services that can help you process and heal from traumatic experiences.
Marcy trained in a range of modalities, including somatic therapy and EFIT, to provide personalized and effective treatment for trauma. To schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services, please visit our website at https://restorecounselling.ca or give us a call at 902-702-7722. We are here to support you on your journey to healing and growth.
by Restore. Renew. Revive. | Apr 1, 2023 | trauma
While most people will experience challenges and hardship in their life, some people experience trauma. We’re beginning to understand trauma better now and have recognized that trauma is actually a physiological process that impacts our psychological and emotional wellbeing. When trauma is suppressed and held in the body, it often leads to mental health issues.
While talk therapy can be helpful for many individuals, it is not always effective for trauma. Trauma can be a complex and deeply ingrained issue that may require specialized treatment to address. In fact, some individuals who have experienced trauma may find that traditional talk therapy is not enough to fully address their symptoms and promote healing.
One reason why talk therapy may be ineffective for trauma is that trauma is stored in the body, not just in the mind. This means that while talking about the trauma can be helpful for gaining insight and understanding, it may not be enough to fully release the trauma from the body. Trauma can lead to physical symptoms and disruptions in the nervous system that may require a somatic approach to fully address.
Another reason why talk therapy may be ineffective for trauma is that trauma can be difficult to talk about. Traumatic experiences can be overwhelming, and individuals may struggle to find the words to express what they have experienced. This can lead to a sense of disconnection and frustration in traditional talk therapy, as the individual may feel that they are not able to fully convey their experiences.
Fortunately, there are a variety of specialized therapies and treatments available for trauma, such as somatic therapy and Emotionally Focused individual Therapy that are helpful for the treatment of trauma. These therapies can help individuals work through trauma in a safe and supportive way, and may involve techniques such as mindfulness, guided imagery, and movement..
Trauma and the Nervous System
Before we dive into how to use somatic meditation and mindfulness for trauma, it’s important to understand what trauma is and how it can affect the body and mind. Trauma is defined as an emotional response to a distressing event, such as abuse, neglect, violence, or a natural disaster. Traumatic events can overwhelm an individual’s ability to cope and can leave them feeling helpless, powerless, and overwhelmed.
Trauma can affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as hypervigilance, anxiety, depression, and dissociation. These symptoms can interfere with an individual’s ability to function in daily life and can have a long-lasting impact on their overall well-being.We have begun to understand that trauma exists in our body’s nervous system. When we experience acute or chronic trauma, our nervous system goes into “fight or flight” mode. To treat trauma, we must do so on a physical level by connecting with our bodies and allowing them to process and neutralize those unexpressed defensive fight or flight reactions.
If we do not allow our nervous systems to come back to a calm and neutral state, we are kept in a state of high arousal, and eventually, our nervous system becomes overwhelmed or freezes and shuts down.
How Somatic Meditation Helps Heal Trauma
Meditation and mindfulness have gained a lot of popularity in recent years as more people are discovering their benefits for mental and emotional well-being. These practices have been used for thousands of years in various cultures and traditions, and scientific research has demonstrated their effectiveness in reducing stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Somatic meditation is a form of mindfulness that involves paying attention to physical sensations in the body. It can be particularly helpful for individuals who have experienced trauma as it can provide a way to connect with the body in a safe and supportive way.
Somatic Meditation and Mindfulness help people suffering from the effects of trauma by getting them to become aware of the trauma in their body, without the need to recall the traumatic event(s). Somatic meditation teaches individuals how to release tension from the body, and therefore helps the nervous system release the trapped defensive energy.
Somatic meditation can help individuals become more aware of their physical sensations, such as tension, pain, or discomfort, and develop a greater understanding of how their body responds to stress and trauma. By bringing awareness to these sensations, individuals can learn to regulate their nervous system and develop a greater sense of control over their emotions and thoughts.
Using Somatic Meditation and Mindfulness for Trauma
Here are some tips for using somatic meditation and mindfulness for trauma:
1. Create a Safe and Supportive Environment
Creating a safe and supportive environment is essential when working with trauma. This can involve finding a quiet and comfortable space to meditate, ensuring that you won’t be interrupted, and setting the intention to approach your practice with kindness and compassion.
2. Focus on Sensations in the Body
When practicing somatic meditation, focus on the physical sensations in your body. This can involve paying attention to your breath, noticing any tension or discomfort, and becoming aware of how your body feels overall.
3. Practice Grounding Techniques
Grounding techniques can be helpful for individuals who experience dissociation or other symptoms of trauma. This can involve focusing on a specific object, such as a candle or a piece of jewelry, or using a physical sensation, such as tapping your feet or placing your hands on your thighs, to bring yourself back into the present moment.
4. Practice Self-Compassion
Practicing self-compassion is essential when working with trauma. This involves treating yourself with kindness and understanding, recognizing that healing is a process, and acknowledging that it’s okay to take things slowly.
5. Seek Professional Support
While somatic meditation and mindfulness can be helpful for individuals who have experienced trauma, it’s important to seek professional support as well. Trauma can be complex and may require specialized treatment, such as therapy or counseling, to fully address and heal.
Somatic Therapy for Trauma
Somatic therapy for trauma can be helpful in a variety of ways. By focusing on the body and physical sensations, individuals can develop a greater sense of awareness and control over their nervous system’s response to stress and trauma. This can lead to a reduction in physical symptoms such as chronic pain and gastrointestinal issues, as well as emotional symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
Additionally, somatic therapy can help individuals develop a greater sense of empowerment and agency in their healing journey. By working with the body and physical sensations, individuals can develop a greater sense of trust in their own inner wisdom and capacity for healing.
If you or someone you know has experienced trauma and is seeking support and healing, consider reaching out to Restore Renew Revive Counselling & Couples Therapy. Our qualified therapist offer somatic therapy and other evidence-based approaches to help individuals heal from trauma and develop a greater sense of empowerment and agency in their lives.
To schedule an appointment, call us at 902-702-7722 or visit our website at https://restorecounselling.ca. We are committed to providing a safe and compassionate space for individuals to explore their healing journey and restore a sense of balance and wellbeing.
Sources: