One thing I’ve learned, especially since living with MND, is that feeling awesome doesn’t just come from what we do for ourselves. A big part of our wellbeing comes from the people around us. Human connection really is one of the most powerful resilience tools we have. And the holiday season tends to amplify that. For some people it’s joyful and full of activity…for others it’s a bit quiet, lonely, or emotionally heavy. Most of us feel a mix of both. That’s why this time of year is the perfect reminder to be proactive about connection. Not just waiting for someone to check in, but choosing to reach out first. Sending a message. Making plans. Asking someone how they’re going. Even a quick 'thinking of you' can completely change the way someone feels in their day. Connection isn’t only about what we receive, but it’s also about what we give. And honestly, contributing to someone else’s sense of support or joy often boosts our resilience just as much as theirs. This is a reminder to message someone you haven’t spoken to in a while, invite a friend for a walk or a coffee, check in on the people who might find this time difficult, offer help if you know someone has a lot on, share a laugh, a story, or something small that brightened your day. These moments add up. They strengthen our relationships and remind us that we’re not meant to do life alone. And the funny thing is, the more we give, the more connected we end up feeling. It's important to make connection a conscious part of how we show up. Not perfect, not forced… just genuine, simple moments. Who’s one person you’d like to reach out to this week?

I'm starting to feel the Christmas rush... the social pressure, the expectations, the extra mental load, plus throw in a quick overseas trip and family coming to visit… it all adds up. As much as I love this time of year, it can be a lot! And before we know it, we’re running on empty. So I’ve been thinking a lot about what I can let go of to free things up a bit... reduce the holiday overwhelm. Living with MND there's a lot in my life that's non-negotiable, purely for my own survival and wellbeing, like daily rehab, routine, and meditation. But I'm looking for things to let go of, like the pressure to make everything perfect... letting go of that extra pressure feels like a deep breath out. I’d love to know what’s one thing you can consciously let go of to minimise the overwhelm? Some ideas I've come up with: • the pressure to please everyone • saying yes when you’re already stretched • overthinking gifts • doing everything yourself • unrealistic expectations on how you 'should' feel • guilt for slowing down • comparing your holiday to others I'd love to hear yours.

Who's already been thinking about their goals for 2026? I know I have!! I’ve always found that having a clear goal, even a small one, gives me something to lean toward. It gives my days a bit of direction and purpose, especially when life feels busy or overwhelming. And fun fact... studies show we’re much more likely to achieve our goals when we actually write them down. It’s like telling your brain, “Alright, this is where we’re heading". So I’d love to know...What’s one goal you’re working towards right now? Big or tiny, it all counts. And most importantly, what’s the very first step you’re taking to get there?

This week, I want to try something simple but powerful, and it starts with just a few words. We all know how good it feels when someone says something kind or encouraging to us. It can shift your mood, soften your stress, or even change the course of your day. But here’s the thing, that same ripple of kindness happens when we choose to share it too. So, this week’s challenge is all about creating that ripple effect. Each day, take a moment to share a kind word or message... it could be with yourself or someone else. Maybe telling a friend you appreciate them. It could be saying something encouraging to yourself in the mirror. Or even sending a quick message to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. Why? Because kindness builds connection, and connection strengthens resilience. The more we practise lifting others (and ourselves), the stronger we all become. And if you’d like, tell us in the comments who you shared it with or what you said. Let’s see how far we can spread this ripple of kindness.

You know what I’ve noticed? When life gets busy or stressful, joy is often the first thing we stop paying attention to. We focus on what needs fixing, solving, or surviving... and forget about the tiny things that actually keep us going. That’s where micro-moments of joy come in! I’m not talking about big, life-changing events. I mean the small, ordinary sparks that brighten a day, like the smell of fresh coffee, your favourite song coming on, a good belly laugh, or even just stepping outside into the sunshine for a bit to break up the day. These moments might seem small, but they do big things for our resilience. They help reset our nervous system, refill our energy tank, and remind us that even in tough times, there’s still light to be found. For me, it might be enjoying a warm cuppa tea or hearing a cheeky story from a friend. Tiny, simple moments, but they shift everything. What’s one small thing that’s brought you joy this week? Let’s start a thread of joy — because the little sparks often have the biggest impact.