Octavia Chabrier - Born to Blossom

05/11/2025

20/10/2025

I have personally found myself with little energy left in my tank and as a consequence withdrawing from people places and pleasures that would normally fill my boat. I know it’s challenging and I know allowing vulnerability and rest in is important. Allowing humans in and accepting support and self care is so important as this study has found

A major new study has found that social isolation isn’t just emotionally harmful — it may actually cause the brain to shrink. Researchers have uncovered strong links between reduced social interaction and brain atrophy, particularly in regions associated with memory, emotion, and cognitive health.

The research, conducted in Japan, analyzed data from nearly 9,000 adults over the age of 65. Those who reported fewer social interactions showed smaller brain volumes, especially in the hippocampus (crucial for memory formation) and the amygdala (important for emotional processing). They also had a greater number of white matter lesions, which are associated with cognitive decline, dementia, and stroke.

Published in the journal Neurology, the study revealed that even subtle differences in social engagement—such as daily contact versus occasional interactions—were linked to measurable structural changes in the brain. While the findings don’t establish direct causation, they add to a growing body of evidence showing that loneliness and isolation can profoundly affect both mental and physical health.

Experts believe that depression may act as a key intermediary, creating a feedback loop where isolation leads to mood disorders, which in turn accelerate cognitive deterioration. Encouraging older adults to stay socially active—whether through community programs, hobbies, group activities, or even regular video calls—could offer significant protective benefits for brain health.

These findings reinforce an important message: nurturing social connections is not just emotionally fulfilling — it may be essential for preserving cognitive function as we age.

02/10/2025

29/09/2025

A new analysis shows that moving to music with others can be a powerful way to ease symptoms of depression. Unlike walking or yoga, dance engages the brain in a unique “neurochemical symphony,” blending physical activity with joy, connection, and self-expression. Here's why it helps and how to harness it, according to experts: https://on.natgeo.com/47WKONQ

23/09/2025

18/09/2025

Breath and Bowen — both simple, gentle, and calming.

Try this 5-finger breathing brain break whenever you need to pause.

And maybe give your Bowen Therapist a call!

Image credit:

14/09/2025

Moments in a weekend ❤️
Self care in nature and with friends creates a balance in my life. Reflect - Reset - Reconnect

08/09/2025

Trust your body’s intelligence.

It’s always communicating with you — Bowen Therapy listens and works with your body, not against it.

08/09/2025

We are allowed to make mistakes and still believe in ourselves xx

02/09/2025

I am presently back at uni studying a Grad Certificate in Counselling, because Every Body Matters. I have a strong interest in stress prevention and the load we carry in our body and how it affects our inner being. I have supported thousands of clients in their wellbeing journey, which has included palliative care and sub-acute mental health and disability.

And this is why I do what I do - and have been doing for over two decades. Over 25,000 treatments and numerous testimonies of relief on all levels.
For all inquiries on how my treatments and protocols may support your wellbeing journey - send me a dm or take advantage of a ten minute telephone consult to see if what I offer is what you are seeking.

30/08/2025

It may come as quite a surprise to many because most of my work is with women's wellbeing and counselling, that I get such a surge of emotion witnessing and listening to men speak from the heart at how they too are navigating what masculinity means to them and where they too find validation, support and a voice in these changing landscapes.