Author: Christine Bennett

Counselling for couples offered by Christine Bennett addresses the many issues which are often encountered in the challenging journey of relationship and facilitatse a more loving connection with your partner. For those people who are single and would prefer to be part of a couple, then Christine will help with personalized coaching for dating success.
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Self-Esteem: Boosting Confidence through Practical Strategies

What is Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem is a crucial aspect of one’s mental well-being and overall quality of life. It refers to your subjective sense of personal worth and value, stemming from your perceptions of your abilities and attributes. A healthy self-esteem is essential for motivation, confidence, and self-respect, enabling you to achieve greater successes and happiness in life.

In your journey to understand and improve your self-esteem, it’s important to recognise the various factors that influence it. These can include your upbringing, past experiences, and your general attitude towards life. Acknowledging the ways in which your self-esteem has been shaped can help you develop targeted strategies to enhance it, ultimately cultivating a more positive self-image.

As you nurture your self-esteem, remember that it can be a complex and ongoing process. Achieving a healthy balance may take time and patience, but with perseverance and the right approach, you can gradually build a strong foundation of self-worth that will benefit your overall wellbeing and satisfaction with life.

Understanding Self-Esteem

Self-esteem is your subjective sense of overall personal worth or value. It refers to how you think and feel about your own qualities and characteristics, influencing your level of confidence in your abilities and attributes. Healthy self-esteem can positively impact your motivation, mental well-being, and overall quality of life1.

As you develop your self-esteem, it’s essential to understand that it can be either high or low. High self-esteem means you have a strong sense of self-value and view yourself positively, while low self-esteem reflects a poor opinion of yourself and often leads to less self-confidence and more negative thoughts and feelings2.

There are various factors that can influence your self-esteem, which include:

  • Your upbringing and past experiences
  • Your thoughts and perceptions of yourself
  • Social influences and relationships
  • Achievements and successes

To improve your self-esteem, you should focus on acknowledging your strengths and accomplishments, practice self-compassion, and surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and encourage you3.

Remember, self-esteem is not fixed, and it can change throughout your life. Take the time to actively work on developing a healthy sense of self-worth and appreciation, as it will play a significant role in your overall happiness and well-being.

Footnotes

  1. Verywell Mind – Self-Esteem: Influences, Traits, and How to Improve It ?
  2. Verywell Health – What Is Self-Esteem? ?
  3. PositivePsychology.com – What is Self-Esteem? A Psychologist Explains ?

Causes of Low Self-Esteem

Family and Cultural Influences

Your family and cultural background can significantly influence your self-esteem. If you grew up in an environment where criticism was more common than encouragement, it could have affected your sense of self-worth. Additionally, cultural expectations and beliefs about success, appearance, and social roles can also impact how you see yourself. It’s essential to recognise these influences and learn how to manage them so you can develop a healthy self-image.

Social Factors

Social factors can also contribute to low self-esteem. Experiences such as bullying, peer pressure, and social isolation can damage your self-confidence and lead to negative self-perceptions. External factors, like the media, can also affect how you see yourself by promoting certain stereotypes or ideals that are unrealistic.

To combat these social factors, it’s crucial to surround yourself with supportive and positive individuals who celebrate your strengths and encourage your growth. Additionally, limiting exposure to unrealistic or harmful societal expectations can help foster a more accurate and positive self-image.

Remember, self-esteem is an ongoing journey, and it’s essential to remain proactive in addressing the factors that impact your self-worth. By understanding and managing the various influences on your self-esteem, you will be better equipped to develop a strong sense of self.

Signs of Low Self-Esteem

Recognising the signs of low self-esteem can help you better understand your own emotions and address them effectively. Some common symptoms you may encounter include:

  • Lack of confidence: You might struggle to trust your instincts and be constantly second-guessing yourself.
  • External locus of control: You may feel that external circumstances, rather than your own actions, determine everything that happens in your life. Learn more about this concept here.
  • Negative social comparisons: You might constantly compare yourself to others, often assuming that they have more positive qualities than you.
  • Trouble asking for help: It can be difficult for you to request assistance, as you may worry about being a burden to others or feel unworthy of their support.
  • Worry and doubt: You may often be preoccupied with feelings of anxiety or self-doubt.
  • Negative self-talk: Your inner voice may focus on your perceived flaws or mistakes instead of recognising your achievements.

Additionally, individuals with low self-esteem tend to be sensitive to criticism, whether from themselves or others. It is essential to remember that everyone experiences moments of insecurity or doubt, but these feelings should not define your self-worth or shape your entire perspective on life.

To manage your low self-esteem, it is important to identify these signs and develop healthy coping strategies to counteract them. This can include practicing self-compassion, setting achievable goals, and seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if needed. By recognising and addressing the signs of low self-esteem, you can cultivate a more positive and confident outlook on life.

Impact on Mental Health

Your self-esteem plays a crucial role in your mental health. When you have positive self-esteem, you’re more likely to feel confident, capable, and assertive in various aspects of your life. On the other hand, low self-esteem has the potential to lead to a variety of mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders and depressive disorders.

It’s essential to recognise that low self-esteem can make it difficult for you to pursue your goals and maintain healthy relationships, ultimately impacting your overall quality of life. Numerous factors contribute to the development of low self-esteem. Some common influences include experiencing criticism from others, internalising negative beliefs about oneself, and comparing oneself to others.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has also added to the psychological burden on people of all ages. Heightened levels of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues are becoming more prevalent due to sudden changes in daily life, such as economic stress, social isolation, and educational irregularity.

If you’re dealing with low self-esteem, it’s important to take proactive steps to improve your self-image. Here are some strategies that may help:

  • Challenge negative self-talk by replacing it with positive or neutral thoughts.
  • Focus on your strengths and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.
  • Set realistic and achievable goals for yourself and make steady progress towards them.
  • Surround yourself with supportive people who uplift and encourage you.
  • Practice self-compassion and treat yourself with kindness, just as you would treat a dear friend.

By implementing these strategies and working on improving your self-esteem, you are taking an essential step toward enhanced mental health and overall well-being. Remember that personal growth is a journey, and it’s vital to be patient with yourself as you work to build a more positive self-image.

Building Healthy Self-Esteem

Self-Awareness

Developing self-awareness is crucial for building healthy self-esteem. Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and emotions to create a more balanced view of yourself. Reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and actions to identify any patterns that may be affecting your self-esteem. Practice mindfulness to stay present in the moment and avoid dwelling on past mistakes or future worries. By increasing self-awareness, you will become more equipped to address areas of improvement in a constructive way and celebrate your accomplishments.

Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations can help you improve your self-esteem by focusing on your positive qualities and capabilities. Avoid affirmations that are too contrary to your existing beliefs, as they may make you feel worse, according to ideas.ted.com. Create realistic and believable affirmations that resonate with you and reinforce your self-worth. Repeat these affirmations daily and consider writing them down in a visible location to remind yourself of your worth and potential continually.

Goal Setting

Set realistic and achievable goals to boost your self-esteem. Focus on smaller, incremental objectives that ultimately contribute to your long-term aspirations. This will help you experience a sense of accomplishment and progress, ultimately leading to increased confidence. Remember to celebrate your victories, no matter how small, to reinforce your belief in your abilities. By setting and working towards meaningful goals, you’ll continue to strengthen your self-esteem and believe in yourself.

Self-Esteem and Relationships

Having a good understanding of self-esteem can greatly affect the quality and satisfaction of your relationships. High self-esteem is predictive of better relationships.

In a romantic relationship, your self-esteem benefits as you assume a new social role. This can lead to changes in your personality, including an increase in self-esteem Psychology Today. A healthy relationship provides emotional support, promotes a sense of belonging, and encourages personal growth, which in turn strengthens your sense of self-worth.

Setting appropriate boundaries assists in preserving your self-esteem and preventing feelings of shame or guilt. The Relationship Grid is a helpful tool to understand behaviours in relationships, how they’re affected by self-esteem, and where the relationship may be going wrong.

Here are some practical ways you can work to improve your self-esteem and relationships:

  • Practice self-compassion: Embrace your imperfections.
  • Seek out positive relationships: Be around people who appreciate, respect and support you. This will help to reinforce a positive self-image.
  • Communicate your needs: Clearly express your feelings, desires and boundaries in relationships to establish trust and ensure your needs are met.

Long-Term Maintenance

Developing and maintaining healthy self-esteem is a continuous process. Here are some strategies you can use for long-term maintenance of your self-esteem:

1. Set Realistic and Achievable Goals: Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable steps. Focusing on achievable goals with clear progression will help you feel accomplished and boost your confidence.

2. Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself kindly and recognise that everyone makes mistakes. Accept your shortcomings and learn from your experiences without being too critical of yourself.

3. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences: Build a support network of positive, uplifting people who encourage and value you. Distance yourself from individuals who bring you down or cause self-doubt.

4. Participate in Activities You Enjoy: Engage in hobbies and interests that bring you joy and satisfaction.

5. Cultivate Healthy Habits: Take care of your body and mind through proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep as recommended by experts.

6. Focus on Personal Growth: Continuously work on improving yourself and developing new skills. Learning and personal development can boost your sense of accomplishment and self-esteem.

Remember, maintaining self-esteem is an ongoing process, and it’s crucial to be patient with yourself. By consistently applying these strategies, you’ll foster a strong foundation of self-worth and confidence that will positively impact various aspects of your life.

#self-esteem #self-worth #confidence #personalgrowth

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How Low Self-Esteem Impacts Relationships

Low self-esteem can have a significant impact on our relationships with others. When we don’t feel good about ourselves, we may struggle to connect with others, trust them, or communicate effectively. Here are some ways that low self-esteem can impact our relationships:

Low self-esteem has impact on intimate relatioships.

1. Difficulty Trusting Others

When we suffer from low self esteem and don’t feel good about ourselves, we may struggle to trust others. We may feel like we’re not worthy of love or respect, which can lead us to believe that others will inevitably let us down. This can make it difficult to form close relationships or to open up to others.

2. Communication Problems

Low self-esteem can also impact our ability to communicate effectively with others. We may struggle to express our needs and emotions, or we may find ourselves becoming defensive or argumentative when others try to communicate with us. This can create tension and conflict in our relationships.

3. Neediness and Insecurity

When we have low self esteem, we may become overly dependent on others for validation and support. This can lead to neediness and insecurity in our relationships, which can be overwhelming for our partners. We may also struggle to set boundaries or to assert ourselves in our relationships.

4. Negative Self-Talk

Low self-esteem can also lead to negative self-talk, which can impact our relationships in subtle ways. We may be overly critical of ourselves, which can lead us to be critical of others as well. We may also struggle to accept compliments or positive feedback from our partners, which can create tension and frustration.

5. Difficulty Resolving Conflicts

Finally, low self-esteem can make it difficult for us to resolve conflicts in our relationships. We may struggle to see our own role in the conflict, or we may become defensive or shut down when our partners try to address issues with us. This can lead to unresolved conflicts and ongoing tension in our relationships.

Low self-esteem can have a significant impact on our relationships with others. If you struggle with low self-esteem, it’s important to work on building your self-confidence and self-worth. This can help you to form healthier, more fulfilling relationships with others. Remember, you are worthy of love and respect, and you deserve to be treated with kindness and compassion.

#lowselfesteem #relationships #conflict #communication #boundaries #negativeselftalk #neediness #insecurity #trust

Christine Bennett – https://www.caring4couples.com.au

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OVERCOMING DEPRESSION

Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can be a debilitating condition that can make it difficult to function in daily life. However, it is possible to overcome depression with the right tools and support. In this blog post, we will explore some effective strategies for overcoming depression.

  1. Seek Professional Help

The first step in overcoming depression is to seek professional help. This may include seeing a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist. These professionals can help you understand your condition, develop coping strategies, and provide you with the necessary support to overcome depression.

  1. Develop a Support System

Developing a support system is crucial when dealing with depression. This may include family members, friends, support groups, or online communities. Having a support system can provide you with emotional support, encouragement, and motivation to overcome depression.

  1. Practice Self-Care

Practicing self-care is essential when dealing with depression. This may include getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring you joy. Taking care of yourself can help you feel better physically and mentally.

  1. Set Realistic Goals

Setting realistic goals can help you overcome depression by giving you a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Start with small goals and gradually work your way up to larger ones. Celebrate your successes along the way and don’t be too hard on yourself if you experience setbacks.

  1. Challenge Negative Thoughts

Negative thoughts are a common symptom of depression. Challenging these thoughts can help you overcome depression by changing your perspective. When you have a negative thought, ask yourself if it is true and if there is evidence to support it. Then, try to reframe the thought in a more positive way.

  1. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a technique that involves being present in the moment and focusing on your thoughts and feelings without judgment. This can help you overcome depression by reducing stress and anxiety. Practicing mindfulness can also help you develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance.

In conclusion, overcoming depression is possible with the right tools and support. Seek professional help, develop a support system, practice self-care, set realistic goals, challenge negative thoughts, and practice mindfulness. Remember that recovery takes time and patience, but with perseverance, you can overcome depression and live a fulfilling life.

Christine Bennett – Psyche-Care

#mentalhealthawareness #depressionrecovery #overcomingdepression #selfcare #mindfulness #supportsystem #positivethinking #realisticgoals #therapy #psychology #psychiatry #mentalhealth #wellness #selflove #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthsupport #mentalwellness #mentalhealthtips #mentalhealthadvocate #mentalhealthwarrior

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Mastering Time Management: Tips and Tricks for a Productive Day

Time is a precious commodity that we all have in equal measure. However, how we use it makes all the difference. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a stay-at-home parent, managing your time effectively is crucial to achieving your goals. Following are some tips and tricks to help you master time management and make the most of your day.

Tips for Effective Time Management:

  1. Prioritize your tasks: Make a list of all the tasks you need to complete and prioritize them based on their importance and urgency. This will help you focus on the most critical tasks first and avoid wasting time on less important ones.
  2. Set realistic goals: Be realistic about what you can achieve in a day. Set achievable goals that are challenging but not overwhelming. This will help you stay motivated and focused throughout the day.
  3. Break down tasks: Large tasks can be overwhelming and lead to procrastination. Break them down into smaller, more manageable tasks, and tackle them one at a time.
  4. Eliminate distractions: Distractions like social media, emails, and phone calls can eat up a significant chunk of your time. Turn off notifications and set aside specific times to check your phone and email.
  5. Take breaks: Taking short breaks throughout the day can help you stay focused and productive. Take a walk, stretch, or do some deep breathing exercises to refresh your mind and body.
  6. Use time management tools: There are many time management tools available, such as calendars, to-do lists, and time-tracking apps. Find the ones that work best for you and use them to stay organized and on track.

Effective time management is essential for achieving your goals and living a fulfilling life. By prioritizing your tasks, setting realistic goals, breaking down tasks, eliminating distractions, taking breaks, and using time management tools, you can master time management and make the most of your day. Start implementing these tips today and see how they can transform your life.

#timemanagement #productivity #goalsetting #prioritization #taskmanagement #distractionfree #breaks #timemanagementtools

https://cb-counselling.com.au

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How to Resolve Conflict for Couples

Conflict is a natural part of any relationship, but it can be difficult to navigate when it arises between you and your partner. Whether you’re experiencing a disagreement over something small or something more significant, it’s important to approach conflict with a mindset of resolution and understanding. Here are some tips for couples experiencing conflict:

  1. Listen to each other: When conflict arises, it’s important to listen to your partner’s perspective. Try to understand where they’re coming from and why they feel the way they do. Avoid interrupting or dismissing their feelings, and instead, give them your full attention.
  2. Communicate effectively: Communication is key when it comes to resolving conflict. Be clear and concise about your own feelings and thoughts, and try to avoid using accusatory language. Instead of saying “you always do this,” try saying “when this happens, it makes me feel…” This approach can help your partner understand your perspective without feeling attacked.
  3. Take a break if needed: If the conflict becomes too heated, it’s okay to take a break. Sometimes stepping away from the situation can help you both cool down and approach the conversation with a clearer mindset. Just be sure to agree on a time to reconvene and continue the discussion.
  4. Find common ground: When you’re experiencing conflict, it’s easy to focus on your differences. However, finding common ground can help you both move toward resolution. Try to identify areas where you both agree, and build from there.
  5. Seek outside help if needed: If you’re having trouble resolving conflict on your own, seeking outside help can be beneficial. Consider seeing a therapist or counselor who can help you both work through your issues in a safe and supportive environment.

Remember, conflict is a natural part of any relationship, but it doesn’t have to be a negative experience. By approaching conflict with a mindset of resolution and understanding, you and your partner can work through your differences and strengthen your relationship in the process.

#RelationshipAdvice #CommunicationSkills #ConflictResolution #CouplesTherapy #HealthyRelationships #LoveAndRelationships #MarriageCounseling #CoupleGoals #RelationshipGoals #BuildingStrongRelationships #CoupleCommunication #MarriageAdvice #RelationshipTips #CoupleTherapy #RelationshipCounseling #HealthyMarriage #RelationshipHelp #CoupleConflict #MarriageGoals #CoupleGoalsAchieved #RelationshipSupport #CoupleSupport #LoveWins #HappilyEverAfter

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5 Tips for Building a Stronger Relationship with Your Partner

Are you searching for ways to strengthen your relationship with your partner? Maintaining a healthy relationship isn’t always easy, but it’s worth making the effort. Here are 5 tips to help you build a stronger, more satisfying partnership:

1/ Prioritize Communication: Whether you’re discussing your day-to-day activities or your broader goals and aspirations, communication is key in any relationship. Take the time to really listen to what your partner has to say, and be honest and transparent when you’re sharing your own thoughts and feelings.

2/ Cultivate Empathy: Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s an essential skill in any relationship, as it helps you connect with your partner on a deeper level. Try to see things from your partner’s perspective, and be supportive and compassionate when they’re going through a tough time.

3/ Respect Boundaries: Everyone has their own individual needs and boundaries, and it’s important to respect these in your relationship. Make sure you’re clear about your own boundaries, and be willing to listen to your partner’s as well. This helps build trust and reinforces your commitment to each other.

4/ Practice Gratitude: It’s easy to take your partner for granted, especially when you’ve been together for a long time. Make an effort to acknowledge and express gratitude for the things that your partner does for you, whether it’s something small like making you coffee in the morning or more significant, like providing emotional support when you need it.

5/ Invest in Your Relationship: Relationships require time and effort to maintain, so make sure you’re investing in your partnership on a regular basis. This might mean scheduling monthly date nights, taking a weekend away together, or simply carving out time each day to connect and communicate.

Building a strong and healthy relationship takes work, but it’s worth it in the end. By prioritizing communication, empathy, respect, gratitude, and investment, you can create a partnership that is fulfilling, satisfying, and long-lasting. So go ahead and put these tips into practice, and watch as your relationship grows and flourishes over time!

#strongrelationships #communicationiskey #practicegratitude

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IMPACT OF CURRENT FINANCIAL CLIMATE ON MARRIAGE RELATIONSHIPS

It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has left many people uncertain about their financial future. With widespread job losses and reduced incomes, the economic fallout from the pandemic has left many couples struggling to cope with financial stress.

According to a recent survey conducted by the National Endowment for Financial Education, over a third of Americans say that money is the biggest source of stress in their relationships. This is hardly surprising, given that financial worries can lead to arguments, tension, and even breakups.

One way that the pandemic has impacted marriage relationships is by highlighting existing disparities in financial literacy and money management skills. For couples who were already struggling with financial issues before the pandemic hit, the sudden loss of income and increased financial pressure may have added an extra layer of stress to an already difficult situation.

On the other hand, the pandemic has also forced some couples to re-evaluate their spending habits and priorities. With many restaurants and entertainment options closed, couples may have had to find new ways to have fun and spend time together. This may have led to a greater emphasis on saving money and being more mindful about spending habits.

Overall, the impact of the current financial climate on marriage relationships is complex and multifaceted. While the pandemic has certainly added an extra layer of stress to already-tense situations, it has also created opportunities for couples to work together to navigate difficult financial times. By being open and communicative about their financial concerns, couples can weather the storm together and emerge stronger on the other side.

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Marriage – What is the best age?

MARRIAGE – WHAT IS THE BEST AGE TO SAY “I DO”?

More and more couples are waiting longer to enter marriage these days rather than opt to walk down the aisle in late adolescence or early twenties as was the norm in earlier generations.

Recent research by Nicholas Wolfinger (University of Utah) indicates that the ideal age range to ensure a successful marriage is between 28 and 32 years.

ringsAccording to Wolfinger “The odds of divorce decline as you age from your teenage years through your late twenties and early thirties.” He also believes that “thereafter, the chances of divorce go up again as you move into your late thirties and early forties.”
Source: Independent.co.uk

To me it makes some sense that an older couple embarking on the journey of marriage are more likely to succeed long term. However, there are always two sides to every story and I’ll give 10 points here for and against. I’d love to hear your comments  at the end of this post!

MARRIAGE: ADVANTAGES OF WAITING UNTIL LATE TWENTIES, EARLY THIRTIES

  1. There has been time to “grow up” and forge a solid identity.
  2. In knowing who you are, it is easier to identify a potential partner who will support and encourage your life goals and vice versa.
  3. There has been time to complete studies or career training without other commitments and responsibilities.
  4. Careers take energy and commitment to establish – easier to do without competition from spouse and/or children.
  5. There has been time to “play the field”, experimenting with different relationships.
  6. Experiencing relationships with a variety of partners makes it less likely to feel trapped or wondering if the right choice has been made.
  7. If travel is important, then marrying later allows time to explore wider horizons, foot loose and fancy free.
  8. Greater financial resources are available.
  9. There is more likelihood of entering marriage with eyes wide open.
  10. After experiencing life living independently, you are more likely to enter marriage with a preference for sharing your life with a loving partner, rather than through fear of being alone.

MARRIAGE – ADVANTAGES OF MARRYING YOUNG

  1.  Less chance of being let down by multiple partners resulting in wounds carried into future relationships.
  2. Less jealousy and insecurities about your partner’s romantic history.
  3. An opportunity to grow up together.
  4. There is a larger market of eligible potential partners around the younger you are.
  5. Time to enjoy traveling together, sharing resources before children arrive.
  6. Having a loving partner to support while study is completed and careers are established.
  7. For a woman falling pregnant becomes more difficult with age. So early marriage provides the opportunity to take advantage of the most fertile years.
  8. There is time to enjoy married life together before feeling the pressure of starting a family.
  9. Young couples are more likely to be more adaptable to each other rather than being set in their ways.
  10. Entering marriage at an earlier age is perfect for enjoying safe and regular sexual intimacy when your libido is at it’s peak.

So, what do you think? Is the research valid? I would love to hear your comments and experience related to this topic. And please share!

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Loving and Being Loved

IS LOVING AND BEING LOVED EASY? OR IS IT A CHALLENGE?

Guest article by Leslee Hughes Core Energetics Therapist

dreamstime_xs_59159516

Some of us can love and some can receive love but are we open to both?

Our minds may want this but our hearts are a totally different vulnerable segment of our body and may be screaming, “no way!”

Do you know that if you were hurt in the first 7 years of life (and there is a likelihood that we all have been) that there is a high probability that you may be defended. Your body even shows the hurts!

How you may ask?  By armoring around the chest front and back, shoulders rolling in to protect the heart, splits, dents, leaks and hollows, it is like you can actually really see a hurt or a wound.

We protect ourselves from feeling any more pain, by diverting energy away from our heart centre so as not to feel and generally wear a mask portraying that we are OK.

Our hearts can think and feel, so without our heart being open and flowing with energy we struggle in the love and relationship department.

Our mask covers what is called called a lower self defense against any attempts to love and trust.

DEPENDING ON THE DEVELOPMENTAL AGE OF THE CHILD,  THE WOUNDS YOU CARRY MAY BE DIFFERENT:

  1. THE DAYDREAMER:  The foetus in the womb. Do you feel Mum’s pain or unhappiness? Do you wonder am I wanted? You may come into the world not trusting, fearful and not sure if you belong.THE TASK is to learn to trust again and to claim your space in the world by getting in your body and unfreezing your energy system. Here I am!
  2. THE NEEDY: From birth to about 18 months of age. There is a great need for love but there is a lack of feeling loved. This may be due to a lack of attention or food or connection. There is never enough love, or it is disappointing and may even turn hateful.THE TASK here is to learn to love yourself! You set the standard!
  3. THE COMPLIANT:  From 18 months to 3 years. The child has to be good, may be smothered, learns to say a lot of yes’s but feels unable to say no as there will be repercussions. Caught with pleasing others and not self, can become very resentful and withholding.THE TASK here is to find your YES to life and happiness, quite often self hate and pleasure-anxiety have been in the way. Your needs are important!
  4. The Prince & Princess: 3 1/2 to 5 years old. The child is built up to be more than the parent of the same sex, some seduction and betrayal, I am special, no I am not.THE TASK here is to become real with our equality to the same sex and to get grounded or there is always a “pie in the sky” big idea but no inner ground.
  5. The Perfectionist: 5 – 7 years old.  I am perfect. You will not find anything wrong with me. Feelings of rejection from the parent of the opposite sex are hidden by the perfect picture but the love of the heart is rigidified and unsafe. Disconnection between the heart and the pelvis. Sex without love and love without sex.THE TASK here is to become vulnerable and realise that you are equal to others or life can become a lonely place.

WHAT IS CORE ENERGETICS?

Core Energetics as a therapy is based on the capacity to love and be loved. Why should you be the exception?

As we explore the defenses to the heart and heal old wounds and new, tenderness and vulnerability emerges, the child is redeemed and you are more whole. There is wonder in the eyes and it is like an awakening to a new world. Your heart is humming and MAGIC is in the air!

To change your energy and your life, contact Leslee for a one on one session to take the journey to your Core (Heart) and bring YOUR heart to your home!

Leslee-HughesLeslee Hughes is one of the most senior members of Core Energetics in Australia.  She is an experienced Body Mind Psychotherapist (Somatic Psychotherapist) who works in Sydney and the Central Coast of New South Wales. Leslee is a Member of the Psychotherapy & Counselling Federation of Australia and a Clinical member of the Counsellor’s and Psychotherapists Association.

Leslee works one on one with individuals, couples, families and is able to do phone or Skype sessions. You can call Leslee on 0407934499 or email mail@lesleehughes.com.au
Check out Leslee’s website for more details: www.lesleehughes.com.au

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Changing Beliefs With Brainwave Entrainment

What is Brainwave Entrainment?

Brainwave entrainment uses technology to assist the brain to access specific frequencies depending on what we would like to achieve.

In the normal waking state our brains usually operate at Beta frequency. When we are relaxed and during meditation, the brain enters Alpha frequency allowing us to feel calm and relaxed as acetylcholine is released.

If the brain operates for long periods in high Beta frequencies, agitation and anxiety may result from an excessive production of dopamine. Brainwave entrainment is a particularly useful way of rapidly altering the brainwave frequencies to assist in reducing anxiety or depression.

meditation-musicBrainwave States and Frequency Following Response

Using brainwave entrainment, access to particular brainwave states is possible where learning, belief changes and change of mood can take place in an extraordinary way.

There is a natural tendency of the brain to have a Frequency Following Response. The brain tends to tune in to the rhythms of what is around in the environment. For example, when the brain tunes in to catchy dance music, the body is usually inclined to move in sync with the music and mood is likely to improve accordingly.

So with brainwave entrainment, beats and frequencies are used to enable the brain to reach the preferred brainwave state for optimal learning or personal change. The neurons in the brain then start firing at specific frequencies. When this happens, neurochemicals and endorphins are released.

Brainwave Entrainment, Belief Changes and Emotional State Regulation

When brainwave entrainment is combined with affirmations, the affirmations are far more effective in reaching the subconscious mind where real change occurs. While operating in Theta frequency, the brain releases a hormone called LTP (Long Term Potentiation). Without this hormone, your affirmations may be heard, but they are not retained.

During childhood between the ages of 2 and 6 years, the brain operates mainly in Theta. This is why children are so susceptible to taking on beliefs as well as having an amazing capacity to learn.

Overcoming Anxiety and Depression

Brainwave entrainment has been shown to increase neural pathways. More are actually created. This is useful for creating new happiness pathways to overcome anxiety and depression as well as new learning and personal change. Brainwave entrainment is even more effective than hypnosis. Negative belief patterns and beliefs can be changed in a similar way to hypnotic induction, only at a much deeper level. This makes any type of personal change that much easier. By simply listening to brainwave technology with recorded affirmations on a digital music device (with headphones), significant change becomes readily achievable.

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