Tears appear as I recall the day my family all huddled around my Dad's hospital bed. Feeling numb, not knowing what to say, we watched as he peacefully passed away. When my Dad took his final breath a strange feeling took over my body. It was a terrible shock to my system and I was literally floored for months! Losing someone close is not always easy, it took me into a space of solitude.

Reflecting on my childhood challenges, a car accident at age 25 and a whole host of health struggles since, I suddenly realised that we are all responsible for our own life and if we want health, happiness and joy, then it's up to us to create it ...even on the days we don't feel that we can!

Thankfully I had learned life-skills and techniques to take me though the tough times. Through taking control of my mental well-being and renewing my physical health with these tried and trusted lifestyle solutions, I successfully restored my mind, body and soul. It was a matter of practicing what I was already teaching professionally for over twenty years!

Not knowing when the day will arrive for us to take our final breath, I believe it's a good idea to embrace life, staying as well as we can so that we enjoy every day, continue to thrive, working well and spend quality time doing the things we love, whether with like minded women we are meeting in a caring community or with family and friends.