THE NEWS BULLETIN OF THE BRITISH COMMUNITY IN SÃO PAULO
The conclusion of eight decades of scientific research (quoted in “The Longevity Project” by Howard Friedman and Leslie Martin) is that compassion and belonging are greater keys to longevity than obsessing over what we eat or how much we exercise.
Read MoreReaders who have lived in the United Kingdom might remember listening to the weekly “Letter from America” on BBC radio. It was my favorite programme when I lived in England, which explains the title of this article as I am in America as I write this. However, I will be back in São Paulo before the next Spotlight reaches your home (or computer) so please get back in touch. I miss you all, and NEED feedback if these articles are to be of any use to the British Society.
Read MoreDr. Michael Smith has begun this year with some optimistic news about a new drug that can delay and minimize the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. But, alas, Alzheimer’s can’t (yet?) be cured.
One of his suggestions: “getting plenty of exercise”, prompts me to remind readers of my recent “Walkie-Talkie” invitation. Although it has been very hot recently, I have already started walking with one friend on Wednesday mornings, and by the time you read this I hope the weather will have cooled down enough to encourage more of you to join us.
Read MoreNothing is more valuable than time. Money can be lost and made again, but time spent (or wasted) can never be reclaimed. Therefore, don’t give your time away too easily. Instead, focus on what is important and/or pleasurable, and ignore the rest. One technique (perhaps the only one I have mastered myself!) is to learn to delegate as much as possible. Instead of asking: “How can I do this task?” try asking: “How can this task get done?” and accept that good enough is good enough. Forget perfectionism!
Read MoreMany of us crave solitude. In fact it was the focus of my dissertation back in 1997, and I still agree with most of it! In brief, solitude is restorative and peaceful when desired. However, undesired solitude soon turns to loneliness, which is increasingly becoming a worldwide epidemic.
Read More“When nothing is sure, everything is possible” (Margaret Drabble).
Read MoreCompared with other basic human needs, the purpose of sleep had remained elusive until the explosion of scientific discoveries over the past 20 years. Research has now proved the importance of dreaming (always one of my interests) as a means to mollify painful memories and to inspire creativity and wellbeing.
Read MoreI am often asked to explain why people come to counselling. Is it for advice? No. Is it to solve an existential problem? Is it a kind of confession? No, no and no!! The aim of counseling is to help clients discuss their own feelings, values and ideas so as to make their own decisions in a safe, unbiased and neutral environment.
Read MoreI am always very grateful for the suggestions and feedback I receive from readers, so the following is adapted from an email I received last week. You have probably read similar advice before, but here are some friendly reminders...
Read MoreWriting in a Journal Optimizes Your Own Creative Potential...
Read MoreThe British Society São Paulo provides support for British citizens who are proven to be eligible for assistance. Over the years many people have benefited from the care and the educational, medical, financial or other aid provided by the institution that was founded in 1940 by British citizens resident in São Paulo. A group of Committee members carefully and compassionately considers each application, at all times ensuring the highest levels of privacy and confidentiality.
