I am thrilled to return to the Good Magazine team and present my first issue as Editor at Large. This edition we look at a topic that’s regularly close to my mind: mental health. It’s something I’m passionate about – not just being positive and happy, but being real.
As we get to know each other, you’ll find I am very open-minded, a passionate risk-taker and somewhat sassy. I have also done a lot of work to allow myself to truly feel my way through life.
Our brains (and gut) are complex organs and, in the modern world, maintaining mental health requires attention on many levels. From the foods we eat, how much we exercise and rest, the information we consume, the amount of pleasure and passion we feel regularly, and the people we surround ourselves with – these factors contribute to the health of our nervous system, which in turn determines our physical and mental wellbeing.
I’ve spent 12 years on a mindful self-development journey. It included meditation, embodiment training, leading a collective of holistic wellbeing practitioners, working with many wise mentors, being a self-awareness writer and supporting countless leaders with their mindsets. Over that time I have experimented with many tools, but I still drop the ball at times and get off balance.
Usually, I’m very present and intentionally healthy with my life. I don’t drink alcohol, I exercise regularly, I live in a wellness-focused eco-village and I am of service to the Earth. After working through a lot of trauma, I am grateful for what life puts in front of me.
I truly believe whether we react badly to something or see it as an opportunity depends on how much energy we have.
I want to shift the magazine’s focus towards building a community-centred brand, fostering collaboration with experts across various fields. My aim is to open conversations, broaden perspectives, and encourage self-reflection, inspiring positive changes in people’s lives. I also want to integrate more technology, embracing youthful innovation while gathering wisdom from those that have been around the block a few times. I am business-minded and strategic, with strong values of integrity and cooperation.
A shaman said to me once: “The way to lose energy is to hold on to something that is dead or dying.” That idea has really stuck with me and can apply to many areas – whether it’s aspects of your ego, an experience or a relationship.
Everyone experiences the darker side of life, and for me that included my father attempting to end his life repeatedly during my teenage years. Traversing my own trauma, I have made it my life’s goal to become well-trained in healing. Other people will find what works best for them – our lives and personalities are beautifully nuanced.
In our latest issue – on sale Monday – we share a story of Nici Wickes finding a quiet lifestyle that promotes mental wellbeing, expert Alice Boyes offers her tips about thinking sharp, I talk about healing in community and adding the power of plant medicines for sacred moments in your day, and Jessica Weale offers advice on how to create a mindful home.
We hope you find inspiration, reflection and perhaps a little nudge towards making changes that help improve life for you.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you wish to get in touch please feel free to email me at [email protected]
