I’m writing this because up until this morning I was sedentary, terrified, fuelled largely by bacon and sausage sarnies, and fully convinced I was about to spectacularly embarrass myself in public. Instead, I ended up muddy, exhausted, smiling - and unexpectedly hopeful. Not because I ran far or fast (I didn’t), but because the experience cracked something open in me that had been closed for a long time. This isn’t a fitness story or a motivational lecture. It’s just an honest account of what happened when I showed up scared and gave it a go anyway.

This Chamber of Curiosity is a 'pokey' one - buckle in. You may have heard of the psychiatrist Irvin Yalom. Throughout his work, he references the “givens of existence” - core aspects of human life that are inescapable and anxiety‑provoking. (Yes, anxiety‑provoking… Every single human experiences, - and in fact requires - a level of anxiety to remain alive – deep dive into The Chamber of Curiosity around Anxiety coming soon)

Mindfulness and meditation have been practiced for centuries, but neuroscience is now uncovering the profound ways they reshape our brains. From enhancing emotional regulation to strengthening cognitive function, these practices can offer tangible benefits backed by scientific research.

The widespread Westernised idea and culture of happiness, often proposes 'happiness' as a goal to be chased relentlessly; an ultimate state of being, that once achieved, will bring oneself enduring contentment.

For a moment, take a step-back and imagine if life and parenthood came with an instruction manual, a handy guide that would unravel the mysteries of what choices to make, when to act, how to navigate the twists and turns of our own existence, living alongside societal judgements and expectations, not to mention the minefield of navigation through relationships with strangers, let alone our own loved ones!