Ancestral Ritual at Sunrise

Unearthing the Secrets of Pitra Paksh 

A Fortnight of Ancestral Reverence

Pitra Paksh is a 16-day period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to honouring and remembering one’s ancestors. It is a time for paying homage to the forefathers, particularly through food offerings and rituals, to ensure their souls find peace and to receive their blessings. The period is also known as Pitru Paksha, Pitri Pokkho, Sorah Shraddha, and Mahalaya.

The observance of Pitra Paksh is rooted in a blend of mythology, science, and a deep-seated respect for one’s lineage.

The Mythology Behind Pitra Paksh

The most popular legend associated with Pitra Paksh comes from the epic Mahabharata. It tells the story of Karna, a great warrior known for his charitable nature. After his death, Karna’s soul ascended to heaven, where he was offered food made of gold and jewels. Confused, Karna asked the reason for this strange offering. The lord of heaven, Indra, explained that while Karna had generously donated gold and gems throughout his life, he had never offered food to his ancestors. Acknowledging his mistake, Karna was granted a 16-day period to return to Earth to perform the necessary rituals and offer food to his forefathers. This period is said to have become the fortnight of Pitra Paksh.

The Scientific and Psychological Perspective

Beyond the mythological narratives, there are compelling psychological and social reasons behind the rituals of Pitra Paksh. From a psychological standpoint, the rituals provide a structured way for individuals and families to process grief and loss. Performing the ceremonies can bring a sense of closure and emotional healing. The act of coming together as a family to remember and honor shared ancestors strengthens familial bonds and reinforces a sense of continuity and belonging.

From a societal perspective, the rituals promote gratitude and a sense of duty towards one’s lineage. They remind people that their lives are built on the sacrifices and efforts of previous generations. This fosters a deep-rooted respect for elders and heritage. The practice of feeding the poor, crows, and other animals during this period also serves as an act of charity, promoting compassion and a sense of social responsibility. Some interpretations even link the timing of Pitra Paksh to the seasonal changes, suggesting that the traditional foods offered, like kheer (rice pudding), were intended to help the body’s digestive system adapt to the changing climate.

The Rituals and Their Significance

The rituals performed during Pitra Paksh are collectively known as Shraddha, a word derived from “Shraddha” meaning faith. These rituals are typically performed by the male descendants of the family, though in the absence of a male heir, daughters or wives can also perform them.

The key rituals include:

  • Pind Daan: The offering of pindas, which are balls made of cooked rice mixed with black sesame seeds, ghee, and honey. These are symbolic offerings meant to nourish the souls of the ancestors.
  • Tarpan: The offering of water mixed with black sesame seeds and barley. This act is performed to quench the spiritual thirst of the departed souls.
  • Feeding the Living: A significant part of the ritual involves feeding Brahmins, the poor, and animals, especially crows. Crows are believed to be messengers of Yama, the god of death, and their acceptance of the food is considered a sign that the ancestors have received the offerings.
  • Donations and Charity: Acts of charity, such as donating clothes, food, and money to the needy, are also considered highly meritorious and are believed to bring blessings from the ancestors.

Why Performing the Rituals is Beneficial

For Hindus, performing these rituals is considered a sacred duty (pitru rin or ancestral debt). It is believed that by fulfilling this duty, one helps their ancestors achieve liberation and peace (moksha). In return, the ancestors are believed to bless their descendants with prosperity, good health, and harmony, and to mitigate any karmic imbalances or obstacles (Pitru Dosha) in the family lineage. The rituals thus serve as a spiritual bridge between the living and the dead, ensuring that the legacy of love and blessings continues across generations.

From an astrological perspective, Pitra Paksh is considered a profoundly significant and powerful period. It is believed that during this fortnight, the boundaries between the physical world and the realm of ancestors (Pitru Loka) become more porous. This allows for a stronger connection between the living and the departed souls, making the rituals performed during this time exceptionally effective.

The primary astrological purpose of Pitra Paksh is to address and alleviate a condition known as Pitra Dosha. In Vedic astrology, Pitra Dosha is not a curse but rather a karmic debt or imbalance inherited from one’s ancestors. It is believed to manifest in a person’s birth chart (kundli) through specific planetary placements, such as the conjunction or affliction of the Sun, Rahu, Ketu, or Saturn, particularly in the 9th house (the house of ancestors, father, and dharma) and the 5th house (the house of past karma and children).

The presence of Pitra Dosha is believed to cause various challenges in a person’s life, including:

  • Financial difficulties and career setbacks
  • Issues in marriage and relationships
  • Problems with childbirth or progeny
  • Recurring health issues or chronic illnesses
  • General feelings of anxiety, struggle, and a lack of peace

The rituals of Pitra Paksh, such as Pind Daan (offering rice balls) and Tarpan (offering water), are considered the most potent remedies for mitigating the effects of Pitra Dosha. Astrologers believe that by performing these rituals with sincerity and devotion, one can pacify the restless souls of their ancestors, help them attain peace and liberation, and in return, receive their blessings. The act of charity and feeding the needy during this period is also considered a powerful way to generate positive karma and address these ancestral debts.

#PitraPaksh #HinduRituals #AncestralWorship #IndianCulture #Mahabharata #Karna #PitraDosha #Shraddha #SpiritualJourney #Hinduism


the cosi comback

The Cozy Comeback

Why ‘Grandma Hobbies’ Are the Ultimate Antidote to Modern Anxiety

In a world defined by the relentless pace of digital life, a quiet revolution is taking place. People are trading screen time for slow time, finding solace and grounding in the very activities their grandparents once cherished. From the rhythmic click of knitting needles to the earthy scent of a newly-tended garden, these “grandma hobbies” are more than just a nostalgic trend—they’re a powerful and practical solution to the stress and burnout of the modern era.

These tactile, low-tech pastimes are making a comeback for good reason. They offer a much-needed counterbalance to the always-on culture, helping us reconnect with our hands, our minds, and our communities. As we seek more authentic and peaceful ways to live, the simple act of creating something tangible is proving to be a profound form of self-care.

What Counts as a Grandma Hobby?

Let us get one thing straight: “grandma hobby” is a term of endearment, not a diss. These are hobbies that have historically been associated with older generations—think low-tech, peaceful, and hands-on.

Some common examples include:

  • Knitting and crocheting
  • Cross-stitch and embroidery
  • Cooking or baking from scratch
  • Painting, drawing, and pastels
  • Gardening or growing herbs
  • Writing on paper, like journaling or letter-writing
  • Puzzles and board games
  • Bird-watching

These are activities that engage your senses and require you to slow down. Whether you’re kneading dough, mixing colours on a palette, or simply watching a bird in your yard, you’re forced to be present. As art therapist Emily Sharp notes, these hobbies “offer slowness, sensory engagement, and the freedom to create without pressure—things we’re starved for in modern life.”

Crafting a Healthier Mind

The psychological advantages of these hobbies are significant. Art therapists and mental health professionals are increasingly recommending them for their ability to soothe the nervous system and regulate emotions. The simple, predictable nature of these tasks helps to activate the parasympathetic nervous system—the body’s “rest and digest” state—moving you from anxious overwhelm to grounded presence.

Moreover, these pursuits are a powerful antidote to perfectionism. When you choose to bake a loaf of bread from scratch or stitch a design by hand, the focus shifts from a flawless end product to the pure joy of the process. You are given permission to be a beginner, to make mistakes, and to appreciate the unique, imperfect result. This can have a profound impact on how you approach other areas of your life, allowing you to let go of the pressure to be perfect and embrace the value of growth and effort.

Community, Connection, and Creative Fulfilment

While often done solo, these hobbies can also be a catalyst for community and connection. Crafting circles, cooking classes, and gardening clubs offer low-pressure social environments where shared passion replaces awkward small talk. When everyone’s hands are busy, a different kind of connection forms—one built on quiet camaraderie and mutual appreciation. It is an easy, natural way to build friendships and find a sense of belonging.

Ultimately, these analog hobbies allow for creative expression in a tangible, meaningful way. In a world of mass-produced goods, creating something with your own two hands—whether it is a painted landscape or a page of handwritten thoughts—is a statement of uniqueness and authenticity. It’s a way to define yourself, not by what you consume, but by what you create. It’s about more than just the finished product; it is about the feeling of fulfilment that comes from seeing something through from start to finish, and the quiet satisfaction of a job well done.


Deciphering Your Nightly

Deciphering Your Nightly Adventures

Ever had that classic dream? You are running full tilt, being chased by something or someone you cannot quite make out. Suddenly, you realize you have run straight off a cliff. You try to scream, but no sound escapes, and you jolt awake in a cold sweat. It is a surreal experience, but what does it mean?

For centuries, people have been captivated by the mysterious language of dreams. Understanding the deeper meaning behind our subconscious narratives can provide valuable personal insight into our feelings and thoughts. As the famous psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud suggested, dreams are the “royal road” to the unconscious mind, offering a glimpse into our hidden desires.

While some modern theories suggest dreams are simply a biological function—a way for our brains to process experiences and form new neural connections—this has not stopped dream interpreters from exploring the common themes that appear in our sleep. Hypnotherapist and dream interpreter Jesse Lyon notes that whether dreams reveal our true feelings depends on a variety of factors, including our sleep position and other biological components.

Research has identified seven of the most common dreams: being chased, being late, loved ones dying, falling, flying, school, and sex. Let us dive into some of the most frequent dream scenarios and what they might be trying to tell you.

9 Common Dream Interpretations

1. Falling

Dreams of falling from great heights are incredibly common. Despite the old myth that hitting the ground in a dream means you will die in real life, this is simply not true. Dream interpreters often link falling dreams to a feeling of losing control or a sense that something in your life isn’t going well. It could be a sign that you need to reconsider a decision or change direction. Russell Grant, author of “The Illustrated Dream Dictionary,” suggests that falling often symbolizes a fear of failure or a need to let go and enjoy life more.

2. Being Naked in Public

This one is a classic awkward dream. You show up at school or work completely in your birthday suit. Do not worry, you are not alone! Dreaming of public nudity can signify a feeling of vulnerability or the fear of being exposed. Penney Peirce, author of “Dream Dictionary for Dummies,” says it might suggest you feel like a “phony” or are afraid of revealing your imperfections.

3. Being Chased

Dreams of being chased by a known or unknown figure can be terrifying. According to many interpreters, being pursued in a dream often means you are trying to avoid something in your waking life. The identity of your pursuer can offer more clues:

  • An animal: Might represent hidden emotions like anger or passion.
  • An unknown chaser: Could symbolize a past trauma or childhood experience.
  • A member of the opposite sex: May indicate a fear of love or a past relationship that’s still haunting you.

4. Losing Teeth

What does it mean when your teeth fall out in a dream? Penney Peirce suggests several interpretations. It might stem from anxiety about your appearance or a fear of not being able to communicate effectively. Teeth are essential for asserting ourselves, so losing them in a dream can symbolize a loss of personal power or the inability to be decisive.

5. Dying

Dreaming about death, whether it’s your own or that of a loved one, can be deeply unsettling. Many interpreters believe these dreams reflect anxiety about change or a fear of the unknown. As author Lauri Loewenberg puts it, “change can be scary because…we do not know what is ‘on the other side.'” For parents, dreaming of a child’s death might symbolize a parent’s mourning for the “younger” version of their growing child.

6. Taking a Test

Dreams about taking an exam are a common anxiety dream. According to Craig Hamilton-Parker, author of “The Hidden Meaning of Dreams,” they can reveal a fear of failure. Dreaming of being unprepared, late, or failing a test suggests you feel unprepared to face the challenges in your waking life.

7. Infidelity

Dreaming that your partner is cheating can be incredibly stressful and make you question your relationship. While these dreams often reflect deep-seated fears about infidelity, they are rarely a sign that it is happening. Authors Trish and Rob MacGregor call it a “what if” dream—a way of testing the boundaries of your reality. Other experts, like Eve Adamson and Gayle Williamson, suggest these dreams point to issues with trust or communication in the relationship, or that one person is not getting what they need.

8. Flying

Flying dreams can be exhilarating, symbolizing freedom and independence. On the other hand, they can also represent a desire to escape or flee from life’s responsibilities. Tony Crisp, author of “Dream Dictionary,” notes that flying alone often points to an independent spirit, while the feelings of pleasure associated with flying can even be a metaphor for our sexuality, symbolizing a freedom from social norms.

9. Pregnancy

Dreaming of being pregnant can have a wide range of interpretations, from creativity to fear. David C. Lohff, author of “Dream Dictionary,” believes these dreams might represent a woman’s fear of being an inadequate mother. Conversely, Tony Crisp suggests they can symbolize the development of a new potential or the deepening of a relationship. Russell Grant, meanwhile, sees them as a sign of difficult times ahead.

Other Common Dream Themes

Beyond these nine, other common dreams include discovering new rooms or passages, being inappropriately dressed, being unable to find a toilet, arriving somewhere late, and even finding money. Each of these themes can be interpreted to reveal underlying feelings or anxieties.

Would you like to explore the meaning of any other specific dream you have had, or perhaps delve into the psychological theories behind why we dream?


the thread of time

The Threads of Time

The whispers started long before the baby did. Leo and Maya, eagerly awaiting their first child, would pass the long evenings on the sofa, scrolling through baby names and nursery rhymes. The “Monday’s Child” rhyme was a particular favourite, an almost magical forecast of their future.

“Imagine if she’s born on a Friday,” Maya would say, resting her hand on her swollen belly. “‘Loving and giving.’ That is all I want for her.”

“And what if she’s a Sunday’s child?” Leo would reply, a twinkle in his eye. “’Fair and wise and good and gay’—she will be a little ray of sunshine for us.”

They would laugh, never for a moment thinking the old verse held any real power. But as the due date drew near, a curious superstition began to settle in. They found themselves hoping for a Tuesday or a Friday, secretly dreading a Wednesday.

Elara arrived on a quiet, grey Wednesday morning. The moment Maya held her, all thoughts of rhymes and omens vanished, replaced by an overwhelming tide of love. Yet, in the weeks that followed, the verse seemed to cling to their every observation.

Elara was not a loud, boisterous baby. She was quiet, observant, and often wore a serious, almost contemplative expression. When she cried, it was a soft, mournful sound, not a bellow. Maya would soothe her, whispering, “Oh, my poor little Wednesday’s child, what ails you?” Leo, too, would interpret her quiet moments as a sort of innate “woe.” They were not cruel; they were simply seeing what they expected to see. They had read an article that mentioned how ancient beliefs about birth timing, like those of the Chinese Year of the Dragon, could shape a child’s destiny. The article explained that it was not a cosmic force at work, but rather the parents’ own beliefs that led them to invest more in their children’s education, turning the prophecy into a reality. They did not fully grasp the lesson at the time, only the fascinating premise.

A few months passed, and Elara remained their solemn, little Wednesday. One afternoon, a friend, a psychological scientist, visited. As Elara lay on her playmat, she watched Leo make a series of goofy faces. He twitched his eyebrows, stuck his tongue out, and wiggled his ears. Slowly, a tiny smile crept onto Elara’s face, a hesitant curve that grew into a full-on, gurgling, joyous laugh that filled the room.

It was a sound so pure and unadulterated that it stopped Leo and Maya in their tracks. It was the furthest thing from “woe.”

Their friend, noticing their surprise, gently said, “She’s a beautiful baby. But I have noticed you two seem a bit preoccupied with what day she was born on. You know, that rhyme is not a prediction. It’s an old belief that parents, subconsciously, can make true.”

The words hung in the air, a bell tolling with sudden clarity. They remembered the article they read months ago, the one about parental beliefs shaping a child’s academic achievement. It was not the day of the week that shaped Elara’s personality. It was their own perspective, their own loving, but misguided, expectations.

That night, they held Elara close. “Hello, Elara,” Leo whispered, his voice soft. “My little Friday’s child. My little Sunday’s child. My brave, curious, little Monday’s child. My own wonderful, one-of-a-kind Elara, born on a Wednesday.”

From that day forward, they chose to see the grace, the wisdom, and the joy. They saw the whole picture, not just a single, self-fulfilling thread. And in doing so, they found not a child of woe, but a child full of all the wonders the world had to offer.


ribble effect

The Ripple Effect of Inner Peace


How Spiritual Well-being and Mindfulness Reshape Our Responses to Rudeness

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where a simple, rude comment from a stranger completely derailed your day? You were in a good mood, but their sharp tone or thoughtless action turned your calm into frustration and anger. You might have even found yourself lashing out in return, only to regret it later. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Many people feel as though the world is becoming a less civil place, a sentiment supported by surveys showing a widespread belief that rudeness is on the rise.

What is really behind this? According to a new study, it is not just that people are inherently rude; it is a self-perpetuating cycle known as the Principle of Impoliteness Reciprocity (PIR). This concept suggests a “tit-for-tat” pattern in our interactions, where a rude act provokes a rude counter-act. It is an almost instinctual desire to get even—to make the other person feel the same way we do. Things can escalate quickly, especially in face-to-face situations, where the urge to “settle the score” can take over. The good news is, we have the power to break this chain. The solution is not found in controlling the behaviour of others, but in cultivating a strong inner foundation that allows us to respond with peace instead of reaction.


The Four Pillars of Behavioural Change


Changing our behavioural patterns is not about willpower alone. It is about nurturing our entire being—mind, body, and spirit. By focusing on spiritual well-being, meditation, exercise, and mindful socializing, we can build the resilience needed to face life’s frustrations and respond with grace.


1. Spiritual Well-being: Finding Your Inner Compass


Spiritual well-being is not limited to a specific religion or belief system. It is about finding a sense of purpose, meaning, and connection in life. When you feel grounded by a deeper sense of self, it’s easier to see the bigger picture and not take every small affront personally. This inner peace acts as a buffer against the negativity of others. You might realize that the person who cut you off in traffic is late for an emergency, or the cashier who snapped at you is simply having a difficult day. This practice allows you to respond with compassion rather than with the knee-jerk aggression that fuels the cycle of rudeness. It helps you see the other person as a human being, not just a source of frustration, and shifts your focus from a transactional “debit” of impoliteness to a compassionate exchange.


2. Meditation: The Pause Between Stimulus and Response


One of the most powerful tools for breaking the PIR cycle is meditation. When you practice meditation, you are training your brain to create space between an external event (like a rude comment) and your internal reaction. The study mentioned earlier found that in face-to-face interactions, impoliteness escalates in a stepwise manner, with each step taking slightly longer than the one before. Meditation directly counters this by slowing down your mind’s impulsive rush to judgment. Instead of reacting with an immediate burst of fury, you learn to pause, observe your emotions without judgment, and then choose a different response. This simple act of creating a conscious moment of reflection is a game-changer. It allows you to step off the track of escalation before it even begins.


3. Exercise: Moving the Body, Calming the Mind


The connection between physical activity and mental clarity is undeniable. Regular exercise is a potent stress reducer, releasing endorphins that improve your mood and overall sense of well-being. A physically active person is often more resilient and less prone to reacting negatively to minor irritations. When you are not stressed, your nervous system is in a state of calm, making you less likely to perceive a situation as a threat. Think about it: when you feel good and your body is at ease, a rude person’s behaviour feels less like a personal attack and more like a passing annoyance. Exercise helps you build a physical and mental buffer that allows you to handle life’s small frustrations with a stronger, calmer demeanour.


4. Mindful Socializing: Conscious Connection in a Digital World


While online anonymity can sometimes feel like a shield for rude behaviour, the truth is that rudeness occurs in all settings. Mindful socializing means engaging with others, both in person and online, with full presence and intention. This practice is about being the change you want to see. Instead of participating in a sarcastic online comment thread, you can choose to step back. In a face-to-face conversation, you can practice active listening and empathetic responses, consciously breaking the cycle. By choosing not to engage in a “settling of scores” and instead responding with grace, you become the third party who mediates the situation, as seen in the study’s online findings. Even in a heated moment, a calm, polite response can completely disarm the other person, diffuse the tension, and create a happier, more fulfilling interaction.


A Step Towards a Kinder World


While it may seem that rudeness is everywhere, it is important to remember that we have control over our own behaviour. The world is made up of individual interactions, and each time you choose to respond with peace instead of provocation, you contribute to a more positive environment. By prioritizing your spiritual well-being, practicing meditation, staying active, and engaging in mindful socializing, you can rewire your own behavioural patterns and break the cycle of rudeness, one polite step at a time.


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Grounding: Where Balance & Healing Begin

In our hyper-connected, high-stress world, we are often told to “unplug” from our devices. But what if the real solution is to plug into something much older and more powerful: the Earth itself? This is the concept of grounding, or earthing — a practice rooted in the simple act of connecting with the Earth’s natural energy.

For centuries, humans lived in constant contact with the Earth, whether walking barefoot or sleeping on the ground. Today, we are largely insulated from this connection by rubber-soled shoes, elevated homes, and synthetic materials. Grounding seeks to bridge this gap, allowing us to reconnect with a fundamental source of energy that can have profound effects on our health.

The Scientific Basis of Grounding

The scientific premise behind grounding is surprisingly straightforward. The Earth’s surface has a slight negative electrical charge. Our bodies, on the other hand, can accumulate a positive electrical charge from modern-day stressors like electromagnetic fields (EMFs), inflammation, and chronic stress. By making direct contact with the Earth, our bodies can absorb its electrons, helping to neutralize this positive charge.

This exchange of electrons is not just theoretical; research has shown a wide range of benefits. Studies suggest that grounding can significantly impact our physiology, leading to a more balanced and harmonious state.

The Proven Benefits of Reconnecting

The benefits of grounding are extensive and supported by a growing body of research:

  • Reduced Inflammation: Grounding can help neutralize free radicals, which are a primary cause of chronic inflammation. This can lead to less pain and swelling.
  • Improved Sleep Quality: Many people who practice grounding report falling asleep faster and experiencing deeper, more restorative sleep. This is often attributed to the body’s improved ability to regulate circadian rhythms.
  • Enhanced Energy Levels: By improving sleep and reducing inflammation, grounding can naturally boost energy and vitality, helping you feel more refreshed and alert.
  • Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Grounding has been shown to calm the nervous system, leading to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and reduced feelings of anxiety.
  • Accelerated Recovery: For athletes or anyone recovering from injury, grounding can speed up healing and reduce muscle soreness.

Grounding Made Accessible: The Terrenue Solution

While walking barefoot in the grass is the most natural way to ground, it is not always a practical daily solution. This is where companies like Terrenue provide an invaluable service. They have developed a range of innovative products that allow you to bring the benefits of grounding indoors, making it a seamless part of your daily routine.

Terrenue’s products are designed to mimic natural connection to the Earth. These are not electrical devices; they use conductive materials to safely transfer the Earth’s electrons to your body. Imagine being able to enjoy the benefits of grounding while you sleep, work, or relax.

  • Grounding Bedsheet: A conductive bedsheet and pillow cover that allow you to connect with the Earth’s energy throughout the night.
  • Earthing Mats: Versatile mats that can be placed under your feet or beneath your laptop while working.
  • Earthing Yoga Mats: Stay grounded with every pose and experience true inner harmony. This easy-to-clean yoga mat keeps you connected while exercising indoors.
  • Earthing Mouse Pads: Designed for everyday use, this pad keeps you connected to the Earth while working. With its sleek surface and built-in conductive layer, it helps neutralize excess charge from your body while ensuring smooth mouse movement for productivity.
  • Grounding Wristband: Lightweight and comfortable, this band allows you to stay connected to the Earth’s natural energy anytime, anywhere. Simply wear it while working, relaxing, or even sleeping.

In a world that often leaves us feeling depleted and disconnected, the practice of grounding offers a simple yet profound way to restore balance and promote healing. With Terrenue’s products, this powerful connection is no longer limited to the outdoors — it’s a choice you can make anywhere, anytime.


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Calm Is the New Currency of Workplace Wellbeing

In today’s workplaces, we celebrate speed. Deadlines are tighter, expectations are higher, and the pressure to do more with less has become the silent anthem of modern leadership. But beneath the polished surfaces of productivity lies a hidden cost: stress, burnout, and a workforce silently struggling to keep up.

As we prepare to gather in Dubai for MysticVerse 2026, the global conversation about workplace wellbeing is no longer optional—it is urgent. And the most powerful solution may be the one we have overlooked for too long: calm.

The Silent Epidemic in Our Workplaces

The World Health Organization has identified stress as the health epidemic of the 21st century. Studies reveal that 77% of professionals experience stress that impacts their physical health, and nearly 60% report stress that affects their mental wellbeing. In Australia, burnout is now one of the leading causes of absenteeism, costing billions annually in lost productivity.

Behind every statistic is a human story: the executive lying awake at 3 a.m. replaying tomorrow’s meetings; the manager hiding exhaustion because asking for help feels like failure; the high-performing employee quietly burning out while delivering excellence on the surface.

This is not just an HR problem—it is a leadership crisis. And the antidote is not another initiative, app, or checklist. It begins with calm.

Redefining Calm

Calm is not the absence of challenge—it is presence in the midst of challenge.

It means having a regulated nervous system that allows us to think clearly, respond intentionally, and connect authentically—even when the stakes are high. Calm is the opposite of reactivity. It is the foundation of resilience, creativity, and courageous leadership.

When calm is cultivated, everything else shifts:

  • Teams communicate better.
  • Leaders listen more deeply.
  • Decisions are made with clarity instead of haste.

Calm becomes the invisible currency that powers sustainable performance.

Why Calm Is Good for Business


Workplace wellbeing is often framed as a moral responsibility and it is. But it is also a business advantage.

1. Performance and Productivity – Neuroscience shows that stress shrinks the prefrontal cortex, impairing decision-making, focus, and problem-solving. Calm restores access to these executive functions, directly improving output and innovation.

2. Retention and Engagement – Employees who feel emotionally safe and supported are more loyal, engaged, and motivated. Calm leadership reduces turnover, one of the most expensive challenges organisations face.

3. Creativity and Innovation – Calm nervous systems are expansive nervous systems. When leaders are calm, they create psychological space where creativity thrives and innovation can flourish.

In short: calm is not a “soft skill.” It is a strategic imperative.

The Rewritten™ Approach to Workplace Wellbeing

To truly embed calm into our workplaces, we must move beyond token wellness programs and into cultural transformation. I use what I call The Rewritten™ Method, a four-part framework that integrates neuroscience, psychology, and lived experience:

1. Regulate – Teaching leaders and employees how to reset their nervous system through simple, science-backed tools. For example, the 3-3-3 breathing technique used by Navy SEALs: inhale for three, hold for three, exhale for three. In moments of chaos, regulation restores clarity.

2. Rewire – Addressing subconscious patterns of perfectionism, fear, and overdrive that keep people stuck in burnout. This is about shifting from “I must push harder” to “I can lead with presence.”

3. Reconnect – Helping individuals reconnect with their values, intuition, and purpose. When we align with what truly matters, work becomes more than a to-do list—it becomes meaningful contribution.

4. Restore – Embedding practices and rhythms into daily life and culture so that calm becomes sustainable, not situational. This is where leaders model new ways of working and entire organisations shift.

Calm Leadership in Action

At the heart of this conversation is leadership. A leader’s nervous system is contagious. When a leader operates from urgency, stress cascades through their team. When a leader is calm, they create safety, trust, and steadiness.

Imagine a boardroom where decisions are made not from fear, but from clarity. Imagine a workplace where employees know they can pause, breathe, and reset without judgement. Imagine cultures where wellbeing is not an initiative on the side, but woven into the fabric of daily operations.

This is not idealism. It is the future of work. And it begins with each of us choosing calm.

A Global Call

As I stand on stage in Dubai in 2026, my message is simple: calm changes everything.

If we want workplaces that are resilient, innovative, and humane, we must prioritise nervous system health as much as financial health. If we want leaders who inspire, we must equip them not just with strategy, but with presence.

The conversation about workplace wellbeing is no longer about adding more—it is about rewriting the story. From burnout to balance. From chaos to calm.

Calm is not a luxury. It is the currency of the future of work.