stephthesmart

The Exercise-Stress Paradox: Why ‘just do it’ is not so simple…

When Saturday rolls around, Ade (my other half) and I head to our local Park Run. It’s a reasonably new thing, but since taking up running it is something that is very much a ritual to our Saturday mornings. However, (at the time I started writing this) the route was covered in ice, it wasContinue reading “The Exercise-Stress Paradox: Why ‘just do it’ is not so simple…”

What’s your evidence? A strategy to challenge your thinking

Content Warning: Mental Health, PTSD, thought spirals, suicidal thoughts, negative self-talk I’m sure there are many of us out there who have been met with some pretty scary and potentially damaging thoughts. Thoughts that can catch you off guard, thoughts that come from nowhere, and thoughts that don’t feel like they have come from you.Continue reading “What’s your evidence? A strategy to challenge your thinking”

Beautiful coincidence or something more?

Having recently enjoyed an episode from the Mel Robbin’s Podcast on Synchronicity, it’s given me plenty to think about. So, buckle up because that’s what this blog is going to be – a stream of consciousness as I navigate what synchronicity is, and where it comes from, and what relevance it has in my lifeContinue reading “Beautiful coincidence or something more?”

The Trick the Treadmill Played…

Taking a slightly more upbeat, but still honest, discussion, this blog was inspired by a recent gym visit. There was something quite profound learned there. If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know I’m having a time of it at the moment with my mental health. If you’re new here – hello! I’d also suggest youContinue reading “The Trick the Treadmill Played…”

When my brain don’t work like it used to before, and I can’t even spell my name…

Content Warning: mental health, intrusive thoughts, anxiety, ptsd, burnout. This is week eight of my recovery journey. I’ve been learning to slow down, to feel my feelings, to release them, whilst also accepting that I’m not mentally or emotionally where I need to be yet. And that’s ok. The blog that follows (the stuff inContinue reading “When my brain don’t work like it used to before, and I can’t even spell my name…”

Trudging through treacle and treading a tightrope.

CW: Mental Health, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Chronic Illness As I write this, I’m in two minds whether I’ll actually post it. If you’re reading this, obviously I have. For those of you that follow the ponders, you’ll know I’ve not been all that great lately. I’m currently signed off from my work, struggling with bothContinue reading “Trudging through treacle and treading a tightrope.”