Over the years, I’ve realised that the automatic guilt response isn’t particularly helpful in my life. Not in my faith. Not in my work as a counsellor. And not in my everyday emotional wellbeing. Which meant I had to learn how to deal with it. I can't seem to eliminate it entirely, so I'm learning to deal with it differently.

The good news is that while emotions are a natural part of life, they do not have to control us. Emotional regulation is the key that allows us to handle our emotions in a healthier way.

“Self-care” is everywhere these days. It shows up on Instagram posts with candles and face masks, in TikTok routines with elaborate morning rituals, and even in workplace wellness initiatives. But because it is used so often, many people are left wondering, what does self-care really mean? Is it just about pampering yourself, or is there something deeper going on?

Let’s be honest: not all neighbours are a blessing. Some are loud. Some are nosy. And some—well, some feel like they stepped straight out of a reality show nobody signed up for.