Power naps are frequently recommended as a way to improve cognition, focus and reduce tiredness. But what are the physiological effects on the body, and why can longer nap times leave us more groggy and tired than before?

Healing is a process and is often more than skin deep. Many times we can only start to heal once we have gone through far more than we initially thought we could. It is in that darkness that we can distinguish the faint light that leads us forward, and becomes our guide to the new chapter in our lives.

During prenatal development, amino acids are vital for proper growth and formation of the fetus, and contribute to the development of organs, muscles, and the nervous system. They also have a direct impact on other compound molecules such as nitric oxide that supports placental growth and enhances maternal-fetal blood flow, ensuring adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen.

Many of us have at least one older family member or a neighbour who has experienced a serious fall. With falls being a major health risk affecting the quality of life and leading to accidental deaths in the aged population, we should inform ourselves how to prevent them through different exercises and strategies.

Regular physical activity is a powerful tool for enhancing brain structure and function. It promotes the release of neurotrophic factors that support neuron survival and the growth of new synapses, improving brain functions and reducing the risk of cognitive decline.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health disorders globally, and they are on the rise. For us to fully understand anxiety, we also need to better understand specific disorders that can cause anxiety, such as Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

As women get older and enter menopause, certain health factors and lifestyle can impact their weight and their ability to shed the extra kilograms. Since during menopause many metabolic factors are out of balance, sleep, activity, gastrointestinal health, metabolic syndrome and hormonal imbalance play a significant part in maintaining healthy weight levels.

Depression can sneak into our lives and can cause a gradual downshift in many areas that we take for granted. It can slowly sap our energy levels and affect the quality and duration of our sleep, and as it progresses, it can also cause gastrointestinal issues and loss of will and interest.

Gastrointestinal inflammation caused by coeliac disease can cause systemic inflammation that can lead to health problems such as secondary lactose intolerance, multiple sclerosis, thyroid disease, type 1 diabetes and different types of intestinal cancers.

Having Freedom of Will means that, rather than being free from circumstances, we are free to choose: choose our actions and attitude in all circumstances. True freedom comes with the responsibility to be accountable for our choices and actions. Making choices that are right for us, in every moment, is meaningful and unlocks the power of choice. So, how do we choose wisely?

When dealing with certain conditions, proven therapies should be considered as a foundation and a starting point. Each therapeutic approach should be carefully selected for each individual case, which is why we should also consider new therapies and methods when assisting with mental health conditions.

Anxiety disorders significantly impair everyday functioning. Unlike stress, anxiety stems from worry and fear, which can result from a variety of causes. It manifests in numerous symptoms that can affect a person’s quality of life, making it essential to understand the root causes and address them.