October 2024
Practical Steps to Consider when in Debt
Debt can feel overwhelming, but taking control of your finances and working towards being debt-free is both possible and empowering. By adopting the right strategies and staying committed, you can regain your financial footing. Here’s a practical guide to help you break free from debt [...]
September 2024
Spring Clean your digital life
As the season of renewal approaches, it's the perfect time to refresh your digital life with a bit of spring cleaning. Just as we declutter our physical spaces, we can apply the same principle to our digital environments—out with the old and in with the [...]
August 2024
Celebrate Women’s Day this month with acts of Sister-Love
Take a moment to think about the women who have influenced your life—those who have supported, cheered, guided, inspired, and been there for you. Identify at least three such women and write their names down. These could be mothers, grandmothers, mentors, friends, blood sisters, or [...]
July 2024
Feel the Power of Forgiveness
Global Forgiveness Day (7 July) provides an opportunity to reflect on the transformative power of forgiveness and encourages us to let go of grudges, heal past wounds, and find peace within ourselves and our communities. Forgiveness is more than just a noble act; it’s a [...]
June 2024
‘High’ly Functional
Many individuals struggling with substance abuse manage to maintain a façade of normalcy. These people can hold down jobs, maintain relationships, and appear successful, all while battling their addiction in secret. The term ‘high-functioning addict’ is often used to describe these individuals. Functioning addicts often [...]
May 2024
Catch your breath – kicking the habit of smoking and vaping
As World No Tobacco Day approaches, a pressing issue captures our attention – the dramatic rise in e-cigarette usage among youth. While efforts have traditionally aimed at curbing tobacco consumption, the allure of vaping among adolescents and young adults presents new challenges. Many teens are [...]
April 2024
The “ROI of LOL”
The power of laughter in reducing stress is undeniable; it triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, and decreases stress hormones, allowing for relaxation and recharging. Increasing humour in the workplace could enhance team spirit, prevent burnout, and improve overall work culture [...]
March 2024
How self-talk shapes your life
The power of self-talk is well researched, and Mahatma Gandi explained it well: “Your beliefs become your thoughts, your thoughts become your words, your words become your actions, your actions become your habits, your habits become your values, your values become your destiny.” Sometimes we [...]
February 2024
Love wisely with healthy connections
What constitutes a healthy relationship? This is not just aimed at new significant partner choices but also for those who may find themselves in less-than-ideal relational dynamics. It is also true for single people looking for or creating stronger bonds. Read through these statements and see [...]
January 2024
Make happiness a habit
Happy New Year! As we step into 2024, we want to share some insights and tips to make this year your most vibrant and fulfilling yet. Whether you're striving for improved nutrition, enhanced hydration, or a more active lifestyle, you can achieve these goals by [...]
December 2023
Coping with holiday season abundance
The holiday season brings an array of joyous festivities, tempting treats, and lively celebrations. However, it often accompanies a tendency towards excess - be it in food, drink, financial or social commitments. As we gear up for this time of abundance, it's good to prepare [...]
November 2023
Promoting Kindness and Respect on Social Media
Social media platforms have become a significant part of our lives, connecting us with friends, family, and the wider world. However, the ease of sharing content and messages online also comes with responsibilities. We should try to create a virtual environment of kindness and respect [...]
October 2023
Mind Matters: 10 Ways to improve your Mental Wellbeing
Your mental health is a precious asset that deserves care and attention. Incorporating these 10 self-care tips into your daily life can help you maintain and improve your mental wellbeing. Start nurturing your mind today! Develop a routine that includes: Practice Mindfulness Moments: Start your [...]
September 2023
The Science of Happiness at Work: Unveiling the 4 Happy Hormones
In the pursuit of a harmonious and productive work environment, it's easy to overlook the significant role that our bodies' chemistry plays in shaping our experience. The science of happiness at work is not just about hitting targets and accomplishing tasks; it's about understanding the [...]
August 2023
Got the Winter blues?
Feeling a bit down this winter? We've got some helpful tips to brighten your mood and make the most of the season. So, let's dive in and discover these top tips to beat the winter blues! Embrace the sunlight: Your body needs Vitamin D! Whenever [...]
July 2023
10 Ways to Up Your Personal Happiness Game!
Are you ready to rock your way to a happier life? By focusing on yourself and embracing positive changes, you can create a life that's bursting with happiness. So, let's get started with these to supercharge your happiness and personal growth! Show Yourself Some Love: [...]
June 2023
Family Financial Wellbeing
Money can cause stress and strain within families, particularly when someone cannot contribute or when extended family members rely on your income. However, there are numerous ways in which a non-income earning family member can help share the load. It is important to remember that [...]
May 2023
Hypertension: the silent killer
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a chronic medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a serious health concern that can cause several complications, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. Unfortunately, in South Africa, the prevalence of hypertension has [...]
April 2023
Financial Stress
Financial stress can be a heavy burden to bear, and it almost always spills over into your relationships, emotional wellbeing and physical health. The most important thing is to do something to change it! And NOW! You can take steps to uplift yourself and improve [...]
March 2023
Counselling works: How counselling can change your life
Counselling is a powerful tool that can help to improve a person’s mental health, coping skills, and overall well-being. It provides a safe, supportive environment where individuals can talk openly and honestly about their feelings and experiences, that they may not be able to share [...]
February 2023
How to stay connected with your partner
With February being Valentine’s month, you may be wondering how you can spice up your love life and reconnect with your loved one. Many couples forget how to connect in long-term relationships and assume that a romantic weekend away or gift will rekindle the spark. [...]
January 2023
The detox challenge
In need of a reboot this New Year? Forget the trendy detoxes and cleanses. Instead, consider these simple, sustainable steps. Reset your sleep schedule If you ate, drank, and were generally merry during the holidays, you probably also skimped on sleep. Sleep deprivation can place [...]
December Newsletter 2022
Cut festive spending without cutting the fun
It’s easy to get caught up in the frenzy of holiday shopping, especially with clever, sparkly retailers encouraging us to spend more. However, everyone knows that times are tough. How can we cut the spending, still have fun, but not be saddled with debt in [...]
November Newsletter 2022
What can Men do to end Violence against Women?
Speak out. Silence upholds violence. Call out male friends or colleagues on any abusive behaviour and report them. Educate yourself. Listen to and learn from the stories from the women around you. Take them seriously and believe them. Teach your children. Explain to them that [...]
October Newsletter 2022
How to be a happier you
Are you struggling with difficult feelings? Here are some ideas to get a hold of some of those feelings to become a happier person: Feeling overwhelmed? Tell yourself you are strong enough to tackle everything that needs to be done and that this too, shall [...]
September Newsletter 2022
Spring cleaning – literally and emotionally
Spring is a period of renewal, with longer days, brightly-coloured buds, and fresh birdsong. As we shed our oversized winter coats and thick blankets, it’s the perfect time to remove the cobwebs that have collected in our homes and minds by spring cleaning. The Benefits [...]
August Newsletter 2022
Support the women in your Life!
9th August is Women's Day Their inherent strength, resilience, and wisdom, provide the very foundation for our existence and they deserve our respect, appreciation, and support, every day. What can you do? Ensure respect. Do your bit to make sure the women in your community [...]
July Newsletter 2022
What has COVID taught us about mental health?
It’s not surprising that our mental health, as well as our physical health, was impacted by the pandemic. The ongoing uncertainty, enforced isolation (quarantine), remote working and learning, the constant distressing headlines and death tolls, and lack of social interaction, shook many of us to [...]
June Newsletter 2022
Celebrating the youth
What words of wisdom would you tell your younger self? Here are some examples for you to ponder. Be you There’s one person that you have to live with for the rest of your life, and that’s you. Be your own best friend. Spend time [...]
May Newsletter 2022
Love your heart
Your heart beats for you. This hard-working muscle at the centre of your circulation system, pumps blood around your body, distributing essential oxygen and nutrients, and disposes of unwanted carbon dioxide and waste products; all to keep you alive. Under pressure High blood pressure (HBP [...]
April Newsletter 2022
Fatique is extreme exhaustion:
At times I just want to block the world out and stay in bed’ Does this sound like you? Sometimes ‘it all’ becomes too much - exhausted and unmotivated. Explore the various types of fatigue that could be impacting your life. Physical fatigue There are [...]
March Newsletter 2022
Treating TB with the DOT System – you can cure TB
The good news is that tuberculosis or TB, a serious respiratory disease, once considered a death sentence, can almost always be cured. However, this is ONLY if the sufferer takes the prescribed medication correctly for the full treatment period. This can last about 6 – [...]
February Newsletter 2022
Prevention is better than cure!
It’s better to prevent an illness than to have to treat it, so empower yourself by having regular check-ups with a healthcare professional. Benefits? Discover potentially life-threatening issues early before they cause problems Early treatment increases the chances of a good outcome Monitoring existing health [...]
January Newsletter 2022
Get a (balanced) life in 2022!
Work-life balance is about focusing at work, but also having the health and energy to enjoy your personal life. Increased responsibilities at work and at home, can affect your balance, causing you to stress, feel unhappy, and be less productive. To achieve and or maintain [...]
December Newsletter 2021
World Aid’s Day: The Shocking Facts
Annual World Aid’s Day on 1 December is an opportunity to unite in the fight against HIV, show love and support for those living with the virus, and remember those who have died. The shocking facts are that South Africa still has the highest global [...]
November Newsletter 2021
Movember Matters: Get Tested for Prostate Cancer
Did you know that 1 in every 23 South African men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime? Not only that, an average of 5 men in South Africa die as a result of prostate cancer every day. The only way to reduce this is [...]
October Newsletter 2021
Vaccinations: Where Are we Now?
After the multi-phased national rollout of COVID-19 vaccinations first began in February this year, there is some encouraging news for South Africans. As of the end of September 2021, more than 17.5 million citizens (that’s 32% of the country’s adult population) have received at least [...]
September Newsletter 2021
Five Simple Foods for a Healthy Heart
Eating a balanced diet with plenty of nutritious fresh foods helps to lower your risk of heart disease, heart attacks and strokes. Your heart will thank you for making smart choices. Here are five heart-healthy foods that are easy to include as part of your [...]
August Newsletter 2021
Exposed to Trauma
South Africans have been through a tough time over the last week. We have all been exposed to the unrest in different ways – some via TV, others may have been caught up in the violence, others at work and/or at home too, and while [...]
July Newsletter 2021
How has Covid impacted our mental health?
After more than a year of lockdown measures and COVID-preventative precautions, more and more people are feeling the strain. The fear and uncertainty around the pandemic has in some way impacted the mental wellbeing of a lot of people. A growing number of people report [...]
June Newsletter 2021
Fighting the Stigma around Mental Illness
Today, more people are speaking out about mental illness and the importance of understanding mental health matters. Unfortunately, many people struggling with mental illness still feel misunderstood, misjudged and stigmatised. These negative feelings can often stand in the way of someone seeking proper help. What [...]
May Newsletter 2021
Be Aware: How can COVID-19 Impact Our Brains?
We all know by now to watch out for the physical symptoms of the COVID-19 virus: coughing, fever, aches and pains. But doctors have discovered that the virus can affect our brains as well. Here are the signs to look out for, as well as [...]
April Newsletter 2021
Coping with Burnout and Anxiety
When your body and mind are exhausted after a long period of high stress or anxiety, we call the condition ‘burnout’. Here’s how to recognise if you’re at risk of experiencing burnout, and some steps you can take to prevent it. Recognise the Signs and [...]
March Newsletter 2021
World Tuberculosis Day
On 24 March we observe World Tuberculosis Day, which places the spotlight on this curable and preventable disease. Below is a list of some of the important facts about TB: Tuberculosis, or TB as it’s commonly known, is contagious and spreads from person to person [...]
February Newsletter 2021
Understanding Epilepsy
Epilepsy. Something we’ve all heard of but in a lot of cases, don’t know much about. Despite it being one of the most common neurological diseases in the world, with about 50 million cases globally, it is still widely misunderstood by the public. So, what [...]
January Newsletter 2021
Goals over Resolutions
A new year means New Year’s resolutions, right? Lose weight, save money, quit smoking, etc. Or have you stopped making New Year’s resolutions because historically you have not always managed to follow through on them? A resolution means to make a decision to do something. [...]
December Newsletter 2020
The importance of PEP following exposure
On 1 December every year, we celebrate World Aids Day. What better time to discuss HIV prevention! Did you know that post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can prevent you from becoming infected with HIV after you have been exposed? PEP is a medication that is taken soon [...]
November Newsletter 2020
Life after GBV
In honour of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign, two brave survivors of gender-based violence (GBV) who are currently living in a place of safety have shared their stories: *Daisy wrote, “I am a 35-year-old woman who endured [...]
October Newsletter 2020
Fatigue During Times of Crisis
To say the least, 2020 has been a difficult year. We’re five months into lockdown and it has been tough. In the beginning, there was a sense of hopefulness that things would go back to normal soon. As lockdown progressed, it began to feel like [...]
September Newsletter 2020
Health is wealth
Good health is our greatest source of wealth. Without it, we would not have the energy, strength and confidence to succeed, to love and to enjoy life. Without it, we don't really have anything. Dear Heart At the core of our being, our hearts beat [...]
August Newsletter 2020
Celebrating Women’s Month 2020
August is Women’s Month, and after all the obstacles we’ve overcome during 2020, this is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the strength and resilience of women everywhere. How Women’s Day Started Women’s Day, which falls on August 9th, is a South African holiday dedicated to [...]
July Newsletter 2020
Ways to change your world in Covid19
Annually, Mandela Day on 18 July reminds us to honour the humanitarian legacy of our former President. Despite COVID-19 social distancing protocols this year, we can still be of service to our communities. Virtual Volunteer Those who are most vulnerable are in greater need than [...]
June Newsletter 2020
Exercise and Immunity: Keeping Active during Lockdown
The COVID-19 outbreak has interrupted our normal daily routines, and that means our regular exercise habits have been knocked off track. It is more important than ever to keep moving and stay active to keep your body and mind healthy. Your immune system has three [...]
May Newsletter 2020
Financial Crisis: How do I make do with Less?
HOW DO I MAKE DO WITH LESS? A sudden drop in salary will impact the lives of all who depend on that income. Every person from every nation is weathering the Coronavirus storm, and you and your dependents are in the same boat. There is [...]
April Newsletter 2020
Your prescription for wellbeing in uncertain times
“Resilience is not an inborn trait; it can be acquired.” Martin Seligman It is time to think more about what goes right in our lives, rather than what goes wrong. Robust laboratory research around the world offers compelling evidence that the way we think about [...]
March Newsletter 2020
Tips for Adapting to Change
Dealing with a big change in your life can be challenging, as your everyday routine is disrupted and your sense of security is shaken. Here are some tips on adapting to change in a healthy way, for anyone facing a big upheaval – this could [...]
February Newsletter 2020
Understanding the Basics of Mental Health
Mental health is defined as an individual’s psychological, behavioural and mental wellbeing. The state of a person’s mental health determines how they think, feel and act. Developing and maintaining good mental health is important at every stage of life. Common Mental Health Problems Depression is [...]
January Newsletter 2020
How Emotional Intelligence Promotes Emotional Health
Emotional health is the ability to recognise, express and manage your feelings in a healthy and productive way – and in order to do this, you need good emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence is often seen as a defining factor in those who are professionally and [...]
December Newsletter 2019
HIV Focus – Why Does HIV Communication Still Matter?
The way we talk about HIV has a significant impact on how it is perceived, and how those living with HIV are treated by society. While understanding and communication around HIV have grown and improved in recent years, there are still many misconceptions about the [...]
November Newsletter 2019
16 Days of Activism: Taking a Stand against Violence
From 25 November to 10 December, people and organisations around the world will be observing 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This annual awareness campaign focuses on spreading awareness about gender-based violence and the impact it has on society. It is also known [...]
October Newsletter 2019
Common Myths about Mental Health
During Mental Health Awareness Month, there is a drive towards educating more people about the realities of mental illnesses. There are still many misconceptions and myths about mental health out there, and it’s important to know what’s true and what isn’t. Here are a few [...]
September Newsletter 2019
Lifestyle Tips to Reduce your Heart Disease Risk
Your heart’s main function is to circulate blood, that’s full of oxygen, all around your body. It’s important to take good care of this precious organ, and make sure you keep your risk of heart disease as low as possible. Follow a healthy lifestyle, avoid [...]
August Newsletter 2019
Women in the Workplace: Key to Flexibility & Collaboration
This Women’s Month, we’re celebrating all the skills that women in the workplace have to offer. While women still face challenges in the modern workplace, they also bring a truly unique set of skills and experiences to the table. Here are a few key benefits [...]
July Newsletter 2019
How to Deal with Negative Co-Workers
Negative co-workers can affect everyone on their team, making the office an unpleasant place to be. If you’re struggling to deal with negativity in the workplace, here are some tips to help you cope: Accept that You Can’t Control Others’ Behaviours or Emotions You have [...]
June Newsletter 2019
Water-Saving Tips for Winter
We always tend to think more about water-saving tips during the hot dry summer season, and relax when the winter rains come. However, it’s important to be water-wise during the colder months as well. Water usage goes up in winter, as we enjoy more hot [...]
May Newsletter 2019
Tips for Controlling your Blood Pressure
High blood pressure, or hypertension, can have a serious impact on your health. How can you tell if your blood pressure is too high, and what can you do to lower it? What is Blood Pressure? As your blood is pumped around your body by [...]
April Newsletter 2019
Easy Tips to Help You Cope with Stress
Stress is an unavoidable fact of life, but how you cope with stress makes all the difference. Here are some useful and easy tips to help you manage stress and keep a positive attitude. Sweat it Out When you’re stressed out, your body produces more [...]
March Newsletter 2019
Save Water – Every Drop Counts!
Climate change and ongoing drought conditions are affecting our most precious resource – access to fresh water. Taking steps to save water has become a priority in many households. March is National Water Month in some countries, which makes it the perfect time to step [...]
February Newsletter 2019
Condoms and Safe Sex: Know the Facts
Using condoms is an easy, affordable way to protect yourself and your partner against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Having safe sex means taking responsibility for your sexual and reproductive health, by educating yourself about the benefits of condoms and other contraceptives. Condom [...]
January Newsletter 2019
Make your New Year’s Resolutions Last Longer
Making New Year’s resolutions when you’re feeling motivated is easy – but sticking to them after the initial enthusiasm wears off is a whole other story. How can you make sure you keep your New Year’s resolutions long after January has ended? These seven easy [...]
December Newsletter 2018
Focus on World AIDS Day 2018
World AIDS Day takes place on Saturday December 1st, and gives us an opportunity to raise awareness around the fight against HIV. It’s also a chance to show support for those who are living with HIV, and to commemorate all those who have lost their [...]
November Newsletter 2018
Show Your Support for 16 Days of Activism
16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an awareness campaign that runs annually from 25 November to 10 December. This campaign aims to spread awareness about gender-based violence, abuse and its negative impact on society. Objectives of the 16 Days campaign The South African Government lists [...]
October Newsletter 2018
Understanding Emotional Trauma and its Effects
Trauma, specifically emotional trauma, is something we often hear mentioned when it comes to the topic of mental health. What does trauma actually mean, and what effect does it have on our wellbeing? Defining Trauma “Trauma” can refer either to a serious physical injury, or [...]
September Newsletter 2018
How Human Touch Improves Our Health
We can all relate to the need for human touch. Whether you’re hugging your best friend, kissing your little one goodnight, or snuggling up with your partner, that loving physical connection is just so comforting. It might surprise you to learn that touch isn’t just [...]
August Newsletter 2018
Become an Organ Donor, Be a Hero!
August is Organ Donor Awareness Month, which aims to highlight the need for organ donation. With thousands of patients in desperate need of healthy organ and tissue transplants, becoming a donor is a selfless act that costs you nothing, but has the potential to give [...]
July Newsletter 2018
Understanding Mental Health
We’re often so focused on preserving our physical health, we can all too easily forget to look after our mental and emotional wellbeing too. July is Mental Illness Awareness Month, which makes it a good time to reflect on your mental health and its importance. [...]
June Newsletter 2018
Ten Smart Steps to an Eco-Friendly Home
With World Environment Day coming up and the extreme weather conditions of 2018 on everyone’s minds, now is the time to start taking sustainability seriously. Running an eco-friendly home will ensure that your family cuts down on resources like water and energy, while also giving [...]
May Newsletter 2018
How Hand Washing Protects You & Others
Many of us wash our hands because we’ve been taught that it’s a ‘good clean habit’. But hand washing is so much more than that. Hand washing, also called hand hygiene, can protect your quality of life, and can even save lives by preventing the [...]
April Newsletter 2018
March Newsletter 2018
Honouring Human Rights for All
A healthy society is just as important as a healthy body or mind. Happy, healthy societies are those based on a strong foundation of human rights. These are fundamental rights that you are entitled to, simply because you were born human – regardless of your [...]
February Newsletter 2018
Loving Advice for a Healthier Relationship
In a marriage or a long-term romantic relationship, it can be all too easy to get complacent and fall into bad habits. This could leave you and your partner feeling frustrated and wondering what happened to that original spark between you. When the going gets [...]
January Newsletter 2018
Solutions to Your Post-Holiday Health & Fitness Problems
The end of the festive season leaves most of us with that all-too-familiar feeling of tighter jeans, and a tell-tale number on the bathroom scale. Amidst the celebrations and stresses of the December holidays, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy habits and to overindulge, gaining [...]
December Newsletter 2017
Open your eyes to abuse
Don’t turn a blind eye. If you are being abused or suspect that someone you know is being abused, speak out and call your Employee Wellbeing partner, LifeAssist. Physical abuse includes: slapping, punching, hitting, kicking, shoving, scratching, biting, throwing things at you. threatening or attacking [...]
November Newsletter 2017
Top 10 reasons why men need to take care of themselves
The month of November is Men’s Health Awareness month, better known as Movember. Here are the top 10 men’s health issues that need attention all year around. Colon and rectal cancer: It’s one of the most commonly occurring internal cancers and the second-most common cause [...]
October Newsletter 2017
What is Financial Wellness?
People have different opinions on what financial wellness is, but one thing stands out: without financial wellness, your life takes a downturn and impacts your whole state of being. There is no single definition for financial wellness but it has been described as "an intricate [...]
September Newsletter 2017
Focus on health after winter
With the change of season comes the impulse to clean and replace the old with the new. Spring is also a great time to start healthy new habits and break with the old. Here are five tips to help kick-start your spring health goals: Do [...]
August Newsletter 2017
Eat healthier to work smarter
"You are what you eat" – but what does this really mean? And does it extend to your mind? In fact, a healthy diet will not only help you control your weight and lower your cholesterol, it can also improve your concentration, alertness, problem-solving skills [...]
July Newsletter 2017
A friend in need is a friend indeed
Technology has made it possible to connect with more people than at any other time in history. Still, these Facebook-type relationships are mostly shallow. Texting, social networking and other social media have made it seem possible to maintain a friendship without being in someone's presence. [...]
June Newsletter 2017
Men’s health – here are some facts
It's not news that men are different from women when it comes to health. Men are less likely to go to the doctor when there is a problem even though in most countries men have a shorter lifespan than women. The following facts are less [...]
May Newsletter 2017
Healthy life – it’s all about balance
Life is a balancing act. We try to achieve our goals while constantly balancing the various elements of our lives, but we may be just one step away from a stumble. Here are four easy steps to help you find balance in your life: Assess [...]
April Newsletter 2017
Is your workplace a safe environment?
Whether you work at a business, manage it, or own it, one of your goals should be to prevent injury at work. Here are some things we can do to ensure that no one gets hurt while at work: If you see a dangerous situation, [...]
March Newsletter 2017
A smile a day keeps the doctor away
When it comes to self-managed health and wellbeing, laughter is difficult to beat. Laughter has been clinically proven to have powerful and positive effects on physical, emotional and social health and wellbeing. It helps to heal and renew the human body and mind, and nothing [...]
February Newsletter 2017
My wellness – my responsibility
We consume too much fast food and sugar, are under too much stress, don't get enough sleep or exercise and are disconnected from others. This can adversely affect our health and wellbeing. The good news is that we can take charge and change our harmful [...]
January Newsletter 2017
New beginnings
The new year is a prime time for getting around to some of the things that you've been putting off for the last year… or even longer. One of the biggest gifts you can give yourself is to expand your thinking with new experiences. Commit [...]