For those who know the story of Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos, it may seem hard to remember a time when the company was unstoppable.

Read more: AI Promised the World. It’s Not Delivering.

While her name is now permanently associated with fraud and deception, the truth of the matter is that for a time, the company founded by a 19-year-old Holmes in 2003 seemed poised to change the world. Their promise to revolutionise the healthcare industry by providing fast, accurate and painless blood tests caught the attention of many and led to the company’s peak valuation of nine billion dollars in 2014. Combining the potentially paradigm-shifting technology with Holmes’ captivating public persona, the company seemed poised to change the world. 

Despite claims that they could do a full range of blood tests from a pinprick of blood, the company never developed the technology and instead engaged in a variety of deceptive practices to hide this fact. Of course, as is often the case, Theranos’s secret eventually broke and led to the downfall for a company which had once been praised for its “phenomenal rebooting of laboratory medicine”.¹ Indeed, Theranos and Holmes now serve as a prime example of a company both overpromising and underdelivering—or in this case, failing to deliver at all. 

There was only one problem. It was all a lie. 

One of the most interesting facts about Holmes and Theranos comes not from their downfall, but from the origin of the company. While Holmes may have lied about plenty regarding the company, her stated motivation for creating Theranos seems noble on its face: their attempts to create a blood testing process which used minimal amounts of blood stemmed from Holmes fear of needles—a fear which many can relate to. Unfortunately, at the beginning of the venture, Holmes was told by multiple experts in the field that her hope of creating a full suite of tests which worked from a pinprick of blood was not viable²—advice she ignored, and which would later be proven correct. This, I think, is the most interesting part of the Theranos story: despite knowing that the reality of their dream was impossible, the company continued to sell an impossible promise. 

Another Impossible Promise

On August 8, 2025, OpenAI unveiled the long-awaited next-generation version of their large language model chatbot GPT-5 to the public, claiming it could provide “PhD-level” abilities.³ The world’s richest and most controversial man, Elon Musk, took the claim a step further, hyping up his company’s AI Grok as being “better than PhD level in everything”. In May of the same year, Mark Zuckerberg touted the ability for AI chatbots to replace human relationships and friendships.⁴ Zuckerberg has also made similarly lofty claims about Meta’s other technologies, arguing that in the future, anybody who doesn’t own and use AI glasses will “be at a disadvantage”.⁵

Increasingly, AI is being integrated into every aspect of our daily lives, with its loudest proponents claiming that it will solve all our problems. In the fast-food industry, the owners of KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell claimed that they were adopting an “AI-first mentality”⁶(though the company is reportedly rethinking the approach after a customer used the AI to order 18,000 glasses of water).⁷ Interested in learning a new language? Duolingo believes that AI can help the process, with the CEO claiming AI can make employees “four or five times” as productive⁸ (though once again, their adoption of the technology has led to a significant backlash from customers who doubt its effectiveness⁹). Keen to play some games to relax? EA—the publisher of a wealth of large franchises including EA FC(formerly FIFA) and Battlefield—recently announced a 50-billion-dollar sale, relying heavily on the promise of AI to streamline development costs (though gamers and developers alike are less than thrilled). Everywhere you look, AI promises the world. But promises aren’t reality—and there are plenty of good reasons to be suspicious of those with a vested interest in the success of AI. 

The Unfortunate Truth

As a media scholar (and one of the PhD-level people that OpenAI is aiming to replace), I am deeply sceptical of AI. Many of my doubts stem from fundamental issues with how the technology works. While the title “artificial intelligence” implies a level of thought, and the term “large language model” (LLM) seems to indicate an understanding of language, the reality is that these tools neither think nor understand the meaning of words. 

A full explanation of the ways they work is beyond the scope of this article, but on the most basic level, the ways that LLMs and generative AI view language is more akin to a complex math equation. Your prompt is one side of the equals sign and the technology attempts to “solve” for the most likely response. In addition to this process being extremely power intensive (and having negative environmental impacts¹⁰), it is also the reason that despite the hyped improvements in more recent models, AI continues to suffer from widespread “hallucinations”¹¹—where the chatbot either regurgitates inaccurate information or invents entire falsehoods. Indeed, CEO of Open AI Sam Altman has admitted that hallucinations are not an engineering flaw for LLMs but a “mathematically inevitable”.¹² 

Is AI Making Us Dumber?

The issues caused by these hallucinations are significant and may further exacerbate societal issues rather than solve them. A recent report indicated that 45 per cent of AI responses based on news articles contained “significant” errors—with a whopping 81 per cent of responses having some form of issue.¹³ In this age of misinformation, relying on AI seems like a recipe for disaster. More importantly, current research points towards AI having a negative effect on its users, “eroding critical thinking skills”.¹⁴ Furthermore, while it is often thought of as neutral, numerous studies¹⁵ have exposed biases in AI models¹⁶—an unsurprising reality when one acknowledges the potential biases of their creators which may filter in.  

I could go on and on about the issues with AI (and indeed, some of my poor friends have had to endure my rants on the topic in the past). Ultimately however, all these criticisms can be summed up in one sentence. That is, the reality of AI falls drastically short of the promise its creators espouse. 

With all this in mind, I should acknowledge that I am sympathetic to those that want to believe the promise of AI. The world we live in is fundamentally broken in so many ways with political polarisation, environmental destruction and unspeakable injustice occurring daily. And that’s not even acknowledging the more mundane tasks that it could help with. The promise of a “magic bullet” technology that can ease any of the issues we face—just like the promise of a needle-free blood test—is enticing. And it is true that this technology can help in certain situations. As a tutor to international students, machine learning can be a helpful tool in translating complex ideas discussed in our courses (though it still has imperfections that need correcting). My friends who work in software engineering are adamant that it can help make the tedium of coding less strenuous (which is understandable considering coding, like LLMs, also treats language as a sort of math). AI-assisted live transcription is also potentially revolutionary for the hard of hearing. But these are individual solutions for individual problems—and we should not be forced to swallow all the issues with these AI models in order to benefit from them. 

No Silver Bullet?

The reality is, there is no one solution that will solve all our problems. AI cannot create. Every response it gives is based on the existing work of talented artists, writers and experts who it often fails to properly credit. Working as a tutor, I have seen firsthand its negative effects—seeing students inadvertently turn in assignments with invented information and incorrect sources. In seeing AI as the solution to their problems, they have only created more—and greater—problems. 

This, more than anything, is the danger of AI. Proponents like Zuckerberg and Altman want you to believe that it can enhance—or even replace—human connection, but the opposite is true. If you want to learn, create or connect, you can’t do so through AI. You should go to the source, read what others are saying and listen to the experts who have dedicated their lives to solving these problems. Step outside the tech bubble these companies want to trap you in and connect with the real world.

The truth is, no one machine can save the world, nor can any one individual. So don’t give in to the promise of the technology. Connect with reality. Connect with others.  

Article supplied with thanks to Signs of The Times

About the Author: Ryan Stanton is a PhD Graduate from the University of Sydney. A Media and Communications scholar, he is constantly torn between wanting to believe the promise of new technologies and being disappointed by the reality. 

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Psychologist Anna Ponnudurai reflects on how Scripture and neuroscience intersect.

Registered psychologist Anna Ponnudurai says the Bible’s description of the human mind is both poetic and profoundly accurate.

Referring to Psalm 139:14, Anna explains that our brains are “fearfully and wonderfully made”.

“It’s just a beautiful passage in the Bible about how our brains are so connected and created,” Anna said.

“It was designed by God and it’s the organ of thought, emotion and decision making. So it’s God’s incredible design for relationship and growth, really.”

Throughout Scripture, the importance of the mind is repeated. Anna points to Romans 12:2, which speaks about the renewing of the mind.

This ability of the brain to change is known as neuroplasticity. While it begins in childhood, it continues into adulthood. But Anna is clear – change takes time.

“That takes a lot of time. It takes a lot of effort. It takes a lot of practice,” she said.

“What we really ruminate on, what we think about, really matters. We actually have a lot more power over our thoughts, over our behaviour than we realise.”

Anna believes that, with intentional effort, we can learn to shape our thinking.

“Yes, we do have the power to control our thoughts,” she said.

The Bible also urges believers to guard what enters their hearts and minds. Anna says this wisdom is highly relevant in today’s world.

For those wanting a practical starting point, Anna offers a simple reflection exercise.

“Every time you think of something, every time you hear something, ask: Is that thought real? And what do I want to do with that?”

It’s a small but powerful question – one that reflects both biblical wisdom and modern neuroscience.

Article supplied with thanks to Hope 103.2. Chris is the host of Hope Drive, bringing light, uplifting stories and thoughtful conversation to listeners every afternoon. Chris initially studied science before diving into an IT career before following his life-long passion (talking!) and joining the Hope team.

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Last week I looked at the journey from loneliness to solitude, the first of the three movements towards spiritual growth outlined in Henri Nouwen’s inspiring book Reaching Out.

Today we look at the second transformation – a journey described by Nouwen as being from hostility to hospitality.

When Hostility Hides in Plain Sight

Perhaps like me, your first response to this invitation is a defensive, “No, I don’t think this one has anything in it for me. I’m not an aggressive person, and what’s more, I like a wide range of people (I genuinely do), and my natural posture towards others tends to be open not closed. In short, I think I can tick the ‘already achieved’ box on this one.” Fortunately our first response does not have to be defining, and the more I have mulled this over the more I realise I still have some way to go.

Difference and Distance: The Breeding Ground of Suspicion

There are many reasons we might not see another person well. I have previously written about the dangers of difference and distance, so soberly unpacked in the biblical story of Joseph, where his brothers sell him into slavery because his coat of many colours marked him as being different, while his father’s decision to keep him at home created distance between him and his siblings. If people seem a bit different and we don’t bump into them in any meaningful way, suspicion and hostility is often an automatic response. “You are not one of us” we quickly conclude, and when we view someone as being an outsider, it is only a short step to thinking that the respect, affection and concern we show to those in our circle can be dropped.

Creating Space for Strangers

Nouwen talks about providing space for strangers to “cast off their strangeness and become fellow human beings.” It is about spotting what we have in common, rather than what keeps us apart. It might take a bit of time, especially if our different cultural backgrounds mean humour is not understood, and priorities seem to be different. It can take a while before we see how superficial these differences are.

A Counter Cultural Kind of Love

At a time when many Christians are stridently insisting that Christians should be seen to be different to the prevailing culture, I wonder if this is a way we can do it. Loving the stranger is rather Jesus like – and it is counter cultural – especially at this perplexing time. After all, in Luke 10:25-37 Jesus weaves a story where the dreaded Samaritan is the hero of the day. Despite the “otherness” of being Samaritan, when confronted by a beaten and broken man on a lonely road, he immediately realised that love demanded that he stop and help. Others passing by had more compelling agendas. Their tasks seemed more important to them, so they hurried on to make sure they did not miss their appointment with trivia. It’s pretty counter cultural to love those who aren’t part of your circle. It’s challenging to tell stories where the supposed villain turns out to be the saint, and the home team is portrayed as mean and small. Jesus took that risk – and risk it was… certainly it impacted his poll ratings to the point where the majority cried out “crucify him crucify him”. We really don’t like it when people tell us to love our enemies.

Moving Beyond Labels

There is a trickiness to this for Christians. Ironically, because we follow Jesus, we often divide the world into Christians and non-Christians. I grew up in apartheid South Africa. It was a society where people were classified as “white” or “non-white”. It’s both alienating and insulting to classify people as “non” something, especially if the thing that is getting all the nods of approval is what they are not. To be honest, I don’t know what to do about this. Following Jesus is a big deal and does make a real difference. If you think it doesn’t, it could be that it’s not Jesus you are following. Can we be genuinely open hearted and hospitable to those we consider to not have made the most significant and important decision of all – the decision to follow Jesus?

Actually, I suspect that is where the magic of Christian witness begins. If I am truly hospitable, I see what Jesus wants me to see. Here is someone originally made in God’s own image, loved by God, and having endless dignity and worth because of this. What is more, this is someone God has brought across my path – so of course I must be open to them. I look for what unites us – our common humanity – and celebrate this. I remember that I was once a seeker – and to be honest, still am – not because I think there is someone other than Jesus to be found, but because I want to know Jesus more deeply. There is a hunger that leads us into God’s kingdom, and there is a hunger that leads us on in God’s kingdom. We are probably both hungry for more. And yes, we have both made mistakes and need forgiveness.

Does that lead to words of witness and gentle persuasion to at least give God a chance? How can it possibly not? It is not my own life I am sharing if I let you into everything except that which matters most to me. And if you reject it… well love is not conditional, and we can still joke about the footie, and marvel at rainbows, and weep together over the dreaded C word, or tut tut over the price of fuel. And in God’s own good time – well actually it is up to God what God does in God’s own very good time.

For my part, I am called to journey from hostility to hospitality. That means I don’t lean in to “othering” stories that tell how awful “they” are. Actually, the more confronting “they” are, the more I ask that Jesus would open my eyes and heart, and that there would be a way to turn the enemy into a beloved friend.

Article supplied with thanks to Brian Harris.

About the Author: Brian is a speaker, teacher, leader, writer, author and respected theologian who is founding director of the AVENIR Leadership Institute, fostering leaders who will make a positive impact on the world.

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As we look to the future of marketing and the future consumer, the task is to adapt the tools, not truths. By elevating timeless human needs in timely ways, organisations can navigate disruption with a proactive disposition that energises others.

In the rapidly evolving consumer landscape, marketing teams are navigating an era defined not by linear growth, but by paradoxes. As we chart this new terrain, we see a world where disruptive innovation and enduring human needs collide, creating a complex roadmap for brand relevance.

In an era of rapid change, marketing leaders are navigating an era defined not by linear growth, but by paradoxes and accelerating change. As we explore this new terrain, we see a world where disruptive innovation and enduring human needs collide. Brands need to find a way to meet people where they are at amidst the volatility and complexity of this era of disruption.

To position your brand effectively, organisations must become both agile and anchored, embracing the shifts of the future while staying grounded in timeless human needs. Despite the paradoxes at play we see that while times change quickly, people remain anchored by unchanging social behaviours and human drivers.

Here is how businesses and organisations can tap into timeless human needs to build meaningful connections in a rapidly transforming world.

Belonging & Identity

Society is more digitally connected than ever, yet it remains socially fragmented. Our research reveals that 56% of Australians often or sometimes feel lonely. This isolation is most acute in younger generations, reaching 71% for Gen Z and 69% for Generation Y, aka The Millennials.

People ultimately crave connection to communities and causes that reflect who they are. The opportunity is to move beyond selling a product and focus on creating a community around a shared identity. Do this by inviting your customers to co-create impact. Brand experiences that facilitate belonging can act as a powerful antidote to the isolation many consumers feel.

Trust & Safety

We are witnessing a significant shift from tech optimism to tech scepticism. Today, 78% of consumers are concerned about how their personal data will be used in AI-driven shopping experiences.

In this environment, ethical creation and transparency are no longer premium differentiators—they have become “hygiene factors”. The opportunity is to build trust through integrity and consistent brand values but also prioritise authenticity and truth over perfection. In an age of curated realities, consumers are far more likely to reward brands that offer radical transparency in their supply chains and data practices.

Convenience & Value

While consumers are increasingly values-driven, they face real-world constraints of time, money, and convenience. This “consumer pragmatism” means that 74% of people will still buy an additional item just to unlock free shipping, and 56% would purchase a cheaper product even if they know it is bad for the environment. The opportunity is to use technology to provide “intelligent convenience”, predicting needs before they arise but to focus on the AI strategy as much as the human emotion. For the 67% of Gen Y excited about the time savings from AI, the goal is to make the purchasing journey experiential, affordable, and frictionless.

Agency & Personalisation

The rise of the subscription economy has brought both convenience and complexity. While 89% of Australians agree subscriptions allow them to always have something new, 57% feel overwhelmed trying to keep track of them. The opportunity is that consumers want the agency to shape their own lives and express their unique identities. The strategy is to empower your audience with choice. Offer a mix of ownership and access models to suit different generational needs, ensuring you are reducing their mental load rather than adding to it.

Beauty & Joy

We are moving into a “post-material” world where wealth is increasing, but satisfaction is often decreasing. 77% of consumers are now more interested in experiences and meaning than accumulating material possessions.

Remarkably, even under economic strain, 69% of Australians choose to splurge on small luxuries that provide emotional comfort. The opportunity here is that throughout history, people have been inspired by beauty. The response for marketing teams is to invest in creating meaningful, beautiful experiences that bring joy. In an AI-driven world, elevating these human-centric moments will be the key to brand longevity.

Want to understand not just the timeless human needs, but the ways the different generations engage with brands? Download McCrindle’s Generational Consumer Profiles Infographic to discover the specific drivers and values shaping every generation of the modern consumer.

Article supplied with thanks to McCrindle.

About the Author: McCrindle are a team of researchers and communications specialists who discover insights, and tell the story of Australians – what we do, and who we are.

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Susan Woodworth from Walk and Talk Psychology shares why kids lie and how parents should respond and proceed with the situation.

When Do Children Start Lying?

Children can start lying as early as 2 or 3 years old. This behavior is a developmental milestone indicating cognitive growth. Lying involves a skill known as “Theory of Mind,” which is the ability to understand that others have perspectives and beliefs different from their own. This milestone shows that their brain is growing and practicing new skills, such as holding two thoughts simultaneously—the truth and the untruth they present. Lying is also connected to other social skills like empathy, cooperation, and understanding how to influence others.

Understanding Why Children Lie

Lying in children is often impulsive and not about deliberately trying to deceive. Children lie to avoid immediate trouble or consequences, or sometimes to connect socially or hide something they fear. This behavior is part of their cognitive and social development and experimenting with cause and effect.

How Parents Should Respond

Parents should avoid feelings of guilt or shame about their child’s lying, as it is a normal stage in development. It is counterproductive to demand an admission of guilt because this can lead to shame, defensiveness, and arguments. Instead:

• Stay calm and avoid getting pulled into debates over details.
• Focus on moving forward and repairing the situation.
• If the lie caused harm, such as breaking something, guide the child to take responsibility by fixing or replacing it.
• Explore the reasons behind the lying, such as fear of punishment or social pressures.

Guiding Children Toward Responsibility

The goal is not to force confessions but to help children understand and accept accountability for their actions in a supportive way. This builds trust and cooperation rather than defensiveness. If lying becomes persistent and significantly disrupts the child’s life, seeking professional advice may be necessary.

This approach encourages a calm, understanding, and constructive response to lying, helping children learn important life skills and emotional regulation.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

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God’s Church has a vital role to play in ending the isolation of financial struggle

After 25 years of partnering with churches nationwide, Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Australia is launching a new name and brand: Hope Economy.

Chief Executive Officer Rosie Kendall said the brand change reflects a deep, multi-year evolution of the organisation in response to the significant problem of people in Australia struggling with financial pressure in isolation.

“Over the past seven years we’ve been through a significant season of rebuilding and alignment, internally, culturally and strategically,” Rosie said.

“This moment is the final step of that journey.

“Our conviction is as strong as ever: Jesus offers whole-life transformation, and God’s Church has a vital role to play in ending the isolation of financial struggle in our nation.”

Research highlights the urgency of this moment. Almost one in two Australians report experiencing distress from financial pressure, with financial challenges identified as the leading cause of distress impacting mental health and wellbeing nationwide (Beyond Blue, 2024).

At the same time, financial hardship and loneliness are increasingly linked, with people whose financial needs are poorly met far more likely to experience persistent isolation (Ending Loneliness Together, 2024).

According to Foodbank’s 2025 Hunger Report, almost 3.5 million Australian households experienced food insecurity in the past year, with rising living costs placing increasing pressure on families and individuals across every community.

Rosie said these realities sit at the heart of why Hope Economy exists.

“Financial struggle is rarely just about numbers on a page,” Rosie said.

“It’s deeply connected to anxiety, shame and isolation. We believe the love of Jesus transforms the way we see and respond to that struggle and that the local Church is God’s answer to people feeling alone.”

Founded in Australia in 2000, CAP Australia began with partnering with churches to provide debt management assistance to people facing financial hardship. In recent years, the ministry has intentionally broadened its focus, moving beyond an emphasis on debt alone to partnering with churches and equipping God’s people to walk alongside anyone who may be struggling with their financial situation.

Rosie said the new name ‘Hope Economy’ reflects how the ministry has grown and diversified in Australia.

“Our core mission hasn’t changed, and Jesus remains at the centre of everything we do,” she said.

“What has changed is our desire to speak more clearly into the realities people are facing today, and to invite the Church into a hopeful, counter-cultural way of responding.”

Rosie said the new brand is intended to help the organisation partner with churches across the country, equipping everyday Christians to confidently and compassionately support people who are financially vulnerable in their communities.

“We are passionate about people coming to know Jesus and want to help churches be places of healing and connection for people currently experiencing isolation,” Rosie said.

Hope Economy will continue equipping local churches with training and resources to support people experiencing financial pressure, while calling the wider church to a deeper discipleship journey that reshapes how Christians relate to money and leads them toward deeper care for those who are financially vulnerable.

The rebrand follows a 12-month process of research, testing and consultation with church leaders, supporters, staff and the Board, supported by external expert agencies.

Hope Economy remains an active and committed member of the global CAP community, with CAP International offering its full support for the change.

Rosie said the launch of Hope Economy is ultimately an invitation.

“This isn’t about re-inventing ourselves,” she said.

“It’s about opening new doors, reaching new audiences, and helping the Church in Australia be known for the hope it stands for, especially in a time when so many are struggling.

“Money can be complicated. And when it’s tangled up in shame, isolation, and systems that feel too big to change, it’s easy to feel disempowered. “It’s about opening new doors, reaching new audiences, and helping the Church in Australia be known for the hope it stands for, especially in a time when so many are struggling.

“Money can be complicated. And when it’s tangled up in shame, isolation, and systems that feel too big to change, it’s easy to feel disempowered. But in God’s Kingdom, money can tell a different story, not of lack, but of love. And that’s what Hope Economy is all about.”

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Have you ever sat with a friend or colleague and thought, ‘How are they still standing?‘

They’ve faced loss. Trauma. Disappointment. And yet somehow, they’re not bitter. They’re resilient.

More often than not, a key ingredient behind that inner strength is gratitude.

And it’s not just anecdotal. Science backs it up, too. Studies show that gratitude doesn’t just feel good, it actually changes your brain.

When we practice gratitude, it activates key areas like the prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex, regions that help regulate emotion, boost empathy, and process reward.

It also increases levels of dopamine and serotonin, the “feel-good” brain chemicals that support mood, motivation, and overall wellbeing.

Dr. Robert Emmons, one of the world’s leading researchers on gratitude at UC Davis, puts it simply: “Gratitude isn’t just a positive emotion. It’s a state of mind that changes the way we see and engage with the world.”

And here’s the really fascinating part: the effects of gratitude aren’t just short-term.

Brain imaging research has shown that when people regularly practice gratitude, their brains actually change. Weeks after the practice ends, even when they’re not actively doing anything ‘gratitude-related’ certain regions of the brain remain more active, especially those involved in emotional regulation and empathy. It’s like the brain stays tuned to gratitude, long after the moment has passed.

The ripple effects are just as impressive. In one well-known study, people who kept a simple gratitude journal for just ten weeks reported noticeable shifts in their day-to-day wellbeing. On average, they felt 25% happier, exercised more consistently, had fewer physical symptoms, and experienced better quality sleep. And these weren’t major life overhauls, they were small, intentional moments of reflection.

Gratitude doesn’t erase the hard things in life. But it helps retrain the brain to notice what’s still good, still safe, still worth being here for. Over time, it becomes less of a practice and more of a perspective, one that can support emotional and physical health in lasting ways.

In trauma therapy, the brain often gets stuck in survival mode, hypervigilant, constantly scanning for threat. Gratitude doesn’t pretend life isn’t hard. Instead, it gently redirects our focus toward what’s still good, grounding, or meaningful.

Gratitude Is Not Toxic Positivity

Let’s be clear: gratitude is not about pretending everything’s fine or avoiding painful emotions. It’s not about ignoring grief or silencing anger. Gratitude helps us hold both realities: what hurts, and what helps.
It’s about being able to hold two truths at once: that something is hard, and that something else is still good.

In therapy, it often becomes a way to reframe, but not override, your lived experience. Noticing the good doesn’t mean denying the hard. It means you’re building emotional range and resilience.

Therapist-Tested Gratitude Practices (That Actually Help)

These practices are research-backed and regularly used in therapy to help clients shift attention, regulate emotion, and build emotional resilience:

1. Gratitude Journaling

Write down three things each day that you’re thankful for, aim for specific and fresh entries each time. This practice is linked to improved mood, sleep, and reduced depressive symptoms.

2. Mental Subtraction

Imagine your life without something or someone important (your pet, your job, your health).
This helps create contrast and deepen appreciation.

3. Gratitude Letter (Even If It’s Not Sent)

Try writing a letter to someone who’s made a difference in your life. You don’t even have to send it. Just the act of putting your gratitude into words can boost your mood, and research shows the effects can last for weeks.

4. 3 Wins of the Day

Instead of listing generic gratitude items, write down three small wins, personal actions you’re proud of, even if they’re tiny. This builds a sense of agency and self-efficacy, particularly in clients struggling with low self-worth.

5. Gratitude Voice Notes

Record a short voice memo expressing appreciation and send it to a friend, colleague, or loved one. This simple act increases emotional closeness and combats isolation.

Gratitude isn’t something you always feel. It’s something you practice. And like any muscle, the more you use it, the stronger it grows.

For the trauma survivor, the parent in burnout, the young adult navigating change, or the leader carrying invisible pressure, gratitude won’t erase pain. But it will expand your capacity. It will help you hold both joy and sorrow in the same breath. And that’s where healing and growth begin.

Article supplied with thanks to Sabrina Peters.

About the Author: Sabrina is a pastor and a psychologist who is dedicated to helping people experience wholeness and growth. Passionate about building healthy families, she spends her days raising kids, supporting clients, and creating resources that inspire freedom and hope.

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If you’ve ever wondered “what is Pilates?” and whether it’s right for you, you’re not alone. For many people, getting fit can feel intimidating.

Read more: Pilates: What It Really Is and Why It Might Be What You Need

Movement isn’t always about chasing personal bests or pushing through intense workouts. Instead, it’s about feeling comfortable and confident in your body again – especially after injury, chronic pain, busy seasons, or long breaks from exercise.

That’s why Pilates for beginners, injury recovery, and gentle strength training so often come up in conversation. However, despite its popularity, Pilates is still widely misunderstood.

Physiotherapist Melanie Cauliffe explains what Pilates really is, where it came from, and how it can support people returning to movement – not just elite athletes or dancers. “Pilates was originally designed for people recovering from injury” says Mel.

It Didn’t Start as a Fitness Trend

Although Pilates is often associated with boutique studios and reformer classes, it didn’t begin as a trendy workout.

Joseph Pilates developed the method in the early 20th century. Originally, he used controlled, repetitive movements to help people rehabilitate from injury. He even designed spring-based resistance systems so bed-bound patients could strengthen their bodies safely.

That early equipment later evolved into what we now know as the Pilates reformer.

From there, Pilates moved into the dance community and eventually into mainstream fitness. Yet at its core, it has always focused on:

• Controlled movement
• Core strength
• Alignment and posture
• Functional, everyday movement

In other words, Pilates builds strength without encouraging you to push through pain or burn out.

Classical, Contemporary and Clinical: What’s the Difference?

One reason Pilates can feel confusing is that not all classes are the same.

Classical Pilates

This follows the original sequence of exercises created by Joseph Pilates. Instructors stick closely to the traditional order and structure.

Contemporary Pilates

This version allows instructors more flexibility. They design classes with flow, variation and modern movement science in mind.

Clinical Pilates

Clinical Pilates, however, integrates physiotherapy principles. This approach often suits people recovering from injury or managing pain.

Mel highlighted an important difference in how instructors treat the spine. Instead of flattening the lower back into the floor – a cue many of us grew up hearing – clinical Pilates encourages a neutral spine.

Why does that matter?

Because strengthening your body in its natural alignment helps translate that strength into daily life. Standing, lifting, walking and sitting all rely on neutral positioning. Therefore, training this way supports real-world movement, not just mat exercises.

Mat vs Reformer: Which Is Better?

Another common question is whether mat Pilates or reformer Pilates is better.

The honest answer? They serve different purposes.

Mat Pilates

Mat Pilates uses your body weight and gravity for resistance. As a result, your core, posture and control remain constantly engaged.

Although it looks simple, mat work can be surprisingly challenging. You can’t rely on equipment for support, which makes it highly effective for building stability and strength.

Reformer Pilates

Reformer Pilates uses a spring-loaded carriage that guides movement. The adjustable resistance supports the body while still providing challenge.

Because of this support, reformer classes often suit people:

• Returning after injury
• Managing joint limitations
• Experiencing back or hip pain
• Rebuilding strength gradually

Ultimately, it’s not about which option is “better.” Instead, you need to ask yourself: What does my body need right now?

It Isn’t About Competition

One of the most reassuring takeaways from the conversation was this simple truth:

Pilates is you against you.

You don’t need to keep up with the person next to you. You don’t need to prove anything. And you definitely shouldn’t ignore pain.

In fact, Mel offered this important reminder: if something feels wrong, don’t do it. Even self-imposed pressure can lead to injury if you override your body’s signals.

That’s why proper guidance matters, especially when returning to exercise after injury. Learning safe posture, recognising what “good effort” feels like, and progressing gradually can protect your body long-term.

Movement Doesn’t Have to Be Extreme to Be Effective

Whether you choose Pilates, walking, swimming or another low-impact exercise, remember this: fitness is not one-size-fits-all.

Strength, endurance and cardiovascular health are different aspects of overall wellbeing. However, you can build all three through consistent, sustainable movement. In fact, consistency matters more than intensity.

As Mel says “Turning up is the hardest thing – and it’s already a big win.”

If 2026 is the year you want to move again, Pilates may not be about doing more. Instead, it might be about learning how to move better – with control, confidence and kindness toward your body.

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine.

Feature image: Canva

Depression doesn’t always appear like a crisis. Sometimes it’s quieter, longer-lasting, and easier to overlook.

Persistent Depressive Disorder, which has also previously been termed “dysthymia”, is a form of depression that can affect individuals for years—often without them realizing that what they’re experiencing a mental health condition. 

What is Persistent Depressive Disorder? 

Persistent Depressive Disorder is characterized by a depressed mood and that has been present for most of the day, more than 50% of days, for at least two years in adults (one year in children and adolescents). Less symptoms being present making this appear less acute compared to Major Depressive Disorder. However, the long-term nature of the presentation can have a significant impact on quality of life.

Symptoms of Persistent Depressive Disorder: [for diagnosis you require depressed mood and two of the other symptoms being present most of the day, more days than not]

• Chronically sad or “down”; 
• Low appetite or high appetite; 
• Low in energy or fatigued;
• Low in self-esteem;
• Poor concentration or decision making;
• Insomnia or hypersomnia;
• Experiencing changes in appetite.

Because these symptoms persist over such a long period, they can be misdiagnosed as part of someone’s personality rather than signs of a treatable condition.

Not “just a sad person”

Persistent Depressive Disorder is characterized by a depressed mood and that has been present for most of the day, more than 50% of days, for at least two years in adults (one year in children and adolescents). Less symptoms being present making this appear less acute compared to Major Depressive Disorder. However, the long-term nature of the presentation can have a significant impact on quality of life.

Symptoms of Persistent Depressive Disorder: [for diagnosis you require depressed mood and two of the other symptoms being present most of the day, more days than not]

• Chronically sad or “down”; 
• Low appetite or high appetite; 
• Low in energy or fatigued;
• Low in self-esteem;
• Poor concentration or decision making;
• Insomnia or hypersomnia;
• Experiencing changes in appetite.

Because these symptoms persist over such a long period, they can be misdiagnosed as part of someone’s personality rather than signs of a treatable condition.

Impact you may notice

Living with untreated persistent depressive disorder can affect on satisfaction and functioning in every domain of life. For example, close relationships may suffer due to irritability, withdrawal or difficulty experiencing joy in context-expected ways. It can also impact on career growth through reduced motivation and decision making. 

Perhaps most importantly, individuals with Persistent Depressive Disorder often stop expecting to feel better. This can lead to resignation which prevents them for seeking positive events or help with their feelings, reducing their quality of life and decreasing their motivation. 

What can help?

The encouraging news is that Persistent Depressive Disorder has been shown to respond to treatment. Therapy and medication both have evidence to support change in symptoms. Evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) can help clients:

• Identify and challenge longstanding negative beliefs
• Build healthier coping strategies
• Improve communication and relationship skills
• Reconnect with activities that bring meaning and pleasure

Because PDD reflects long-term patterns, treatment may take time. However, small, gradual change of —improved energy, increased self-compassion, and a renewed sense of possibility– can make a big difference. 

Seeking Support? 

If you or someone you care about has felt persistently low, unmotivated, or hopeless for years—even while “functioning”—it may be worth speaking with a mental health professional about getting support. Depression does not have to be acute to deserve attention. 

If you feel like maybe you could be managing Persistent Depressive Disorder, reach out to a local mental health professional. 

Article supplied with thanks to The Centre for Effective Living.

Feature image: Canva

I was listening to a podcast recently, and the speaker shared about a near-death experience they had been through. One of the things she mentioned was that we live life in the small moments, the ups and downs, the mundane.

Read more: Finding Contentment in Life’s Mundane Moments

Live in The Present

That line really stayed with me. As someone who has struggled to find contentment over the years, always coming up with the next big plan, it rings true. I think her perspective may be the key to fully embracing rest. I have at times led our family down paths we can’t afford, both financially and mentally, due to my desire to chase the next exciting dream. Living in the present, slowing down to find joy in the everyday moments, could be a key to feeling rested even when life is busy. Continually chasing the high moments in search of meaning can’t lead to lasting peace. It leads to hustle culture and an inability to slow down.

We Don’t Just Live Life On The Mountaintops

If we live for the highs, we never see the beauty in the tiny steps along the way. Life isn’t lived just on the mountaintops. We don’t just live it in the big occasions and grand celebrations. We live life in the laughter of a toddler and the smile of a stranger as you pass them by in the street. It’s in having a great cup of coffee in the morning and waking up thankful for all you have. Life is lived in the day-to-day, when you catch up with a friend or complete a project at work. It’s lived in the fight with your spouse, but then remembering why you still choose them every day. Every single day is made up of a thousand small moments, some good and some bad.

Contentment can be found in the day-to-day, the mundane. There can be joy in the good and the bad, not just the highs of life. It’s in learning to slow down and truly live in the small moments that we can embrace rest.

Article supplied with thanks to Lorrene McClymont.

About the Author: Lorrene McClymont is a writer and photographer from Hope Images. On her blog ‘Moments to Rest’, she shares about rest, faith, and family.

Feature image: Supplied (Lorrene McClymont)