We often talk about resilience as pushing through challenges, finding strength, and staying positive. But here’s the truth... none of that can happen without rest. Sleep isn’t just downtime, it’s when your body repairs, your mind processes the day, and your nervous system resets. Without it, everything feels harder... decision-making, emotional control, even finding the energy to show up for yourself and others. Think about it, how do you respond to stress after a good night’s sleep, compared to when you’re running on empty? The difference is massive. Learning to value rest as much as activity has been a big shift. Rest is one of the strongest resilience tools we’ve got! This week think about what helps you switch off and get quality rest? Do you have a bedtime ritual, or is this something you’d like to work on? Share your thoughts below... your tip might be exactly what someone else in our community needs to try.

Happy Monday, everyone! Here’s your reminder for the week: you don’t need to get it perfect, you just need to get it moving. Resilience isn’t about flawless action; it’s about showing up, trying again, and building strength one step at a time. Taking part in FightMND's Challenge 27 this month has played a big part in keeping me accountable. Knowing I’ve got to show up every day keeps me focused and moving forward. These commitments can be tough, but it's also such a good reminder that progress is built step by step. I’ve been sharing updates over on my Instagram page too, so if you’d like to follow along, you can check it out at @leannesklavenitis What’s ONE small action you’re committing to this week that will move you forward? Drop it in the comments below, let’s kick off the week with some accountability and momentum! Leanne x

According to recent research out of Oregon State University, embracing a playful mindset, what they've called “lemonading” (i.e., turning sour moments into playful ones), can significantly enhance resilience, especially during stressful periods, like the COVID-19 pandemic. Here's what the science shows: - Play boosts creativity and optimism. Engaging in light hearted, playful activities helps shift perspectives and opens doors to creative solutions - It builds adaptive coping skills. Being playful allows us to reframe challenges as opportunities for growth rather than sources of threat - It reinforces social connection. Playfulness often happens in groups and laughter or shared fun strengthens our social resilience This week, try to approach a challenging moment with a playful mindset. It could be: - Turning a daily chore into a silly dance break - Making a game out of a difficult conversation - Checking in with a friend and sharing a “silliness swap” - one of you tells a joke, the other responds with a funny story Let’s remind each other that resilience isn’t just about strength - it’s about flexibility, creativity, and finding unexpected joy along the way.

We often hear that if we feel physically well, we’ll feel emotionally better. But did you know it also works the other way around? Research shows that feeling happy, fulfilled, and socially connected doesn’t just improve mood — it can actually improve your immune system, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and even support a longer life. It’s called the happiness–health loop. When you take care of your mental and emotional wellbeing, your body responds. And the best part? It doesn’t take a complete lifestyle overhaul. Simple practices make a big difference: - Laughing with a friend - Spending time in nature - Practising gratitude or kindness - Moving your body in a way that feels joyful - think dancing, hiking, playing - Doing something that gives you a sense of purpose These aren’t luxuries — they’re strategies for resilience. This week, ask yourself: What’s one small thing you can do that makes you feel lighter, more joyful, or more connected? Share it below — and if you’ve ever noticed a boost in your physical health after prioritising your happiness, we’d love to hear about it. Let’s build resilience from the inside out.

Let’s kick off the week with a reminder that might just take the pressure off… You don’t have to have it all together to make progress. You don’t need a perfect routine, a spotless mindset, or a totally clear plan of what you're doing... you just need to keep showing up. Resilience isn’t about never falling down — it’s about getting back up over and over again (even when it’s messy, slow, or wobbly). This week, instead of aiming for perfection, aim for: - Consistency over intensity - Grace over guilt - Progress over pressure What’s one thing you’re committing to this week — even if it’s imperfect? Let’s lift each other up in the comments. Share what you’re working on or how you’re choosing to keep moving forward. You’ve got this!