Maria Hancock, MH Wellbeing

21/09/2025

As a recovering do-aholic, I've learned the vital importance of carving out moments to unwind. For me, there's no better escape than immersing myself in nature. It helps to regulate my nervous system and calms my racing thoughts, allowing me to fully embrace the present and remind myself that I control my workflow—and that it's okay to say no.

The advantages of spending time in nature are truly remarkable. Did you know that even gazing at a stunning natural scene can alleviate pain? It communicates a sense of safety to your brain—and pain is simply your brain's perception of danger.

Just 10 minutes a day can restore your balance, so step outside and reap the rewards. It's free and available 24/7—what are you waiting for?

10/09/2025

This week, I'm enjoying a late summer break in Wales. That's me pointing to the top of Mount Eryri after we'd walked up and down yesterday. The second photo is from the top.

It was my biggest challenge since overcoming my chronic pain. It was tough, and my husband said he was proud of me for only swearing twice on the way up! 🤣

I found setting off back down the hardest, as my leg muscles felt fatigued and achy and the wind and rain started up. Plus I was aware of what a long way we had to go 😢. I would have happily taken the train had they got space, but I'm proud i did it!

I'm not surprised to have achy muscles today and there was some discomfort in my knees yesterday, but that doesn't mean there is anything to worry about. I still use the same techniques that I learnt on my recovery from chronic pain to send myself messages of safety. Life has it's challenges and the skills you learn are skills for life, to keep you living the life you want, and not ruled by fear.

25/07/2025

Are you struggling with chronic symptoms such as pain? Maybe you aren't responding well to physical treatment?

Did you know that most chronic pain (and many other chronic symptoms like fatigue and IBS) are caused by neural pathways in the brain and NOT due to physical damage?

I saw many practitioners for my knee pain and RSI and only found limited (or no) success with physical treatments as the cause was not the body. (BTW ALL pain is real, but your brain can predict pain when there is no physical damage)..

There are a number of ways to discern whether you are dealing with neuroplastic symptoms -

• symptoms begin without an injury (or days, weeks or months after an injury)

• Symptoms began during or just after a stressful period

• Symptoms persist after an injury has healed

• Symptoms spread over time to different areas of the body

• Symptoms occur in many different body parts at the same time

• Symptoms move about

• Symptoms are more or less intense depending on the time of day, or occur first thing in the morning or in the middle of the night

• Symptoms occur after, but not during, activity or exercise (a structural injury hurts when used and is better when rested)

• Symptoms occur when one thinks about them or when someone asks about it

• Symptoms occur when stress is increased or one thinks about stressful situations

• Symptoms reduce or go when calm or feeling safe

• Symptoms are triggered by things that are not related to the actual symptom, such as foods, smells, sounds, light, the weather

The good news is that the brain is changeable ie it is neuroplastic! Chronic pain and other symptoms can be completely curable, even after many years (I had mine for over 25 years) and the approach I use is based on clinical trials and proven to be highly successful.

Why not take a look at my website for further information or message me for a chat -

www.breakfreeofpain.com

17/07/2025

I've been teaching this for years, now there's more evidence. The myth that depression is somehow caused by a chemical imbalance is still believed by many, sadly, leaving them feeling powerless and stuck. The way out of depression can be reasonably swift with the right approach. A previous client of mine said the 10 weeks we worked together were immensely more helpful than the two years of a different form of therapy.

Is Depression Really Caused by a "Chemical Imbalance"? New Landmark Study Says No.

A comprehensive review led by researchers at University College London (UCL) has found no solid scientific evidence that depression is caused by low serotonin levels or reduced serotonin activity—a theory long believed to underpin the use of common antidepressants.

Published in Molecular Psychiatry, this umbrella review analyzed decades of studies across various disciplines. The findings challenge the widely accepted “chemical imbalance” theory, which forms the foundation of popular antidepressants like SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors).

🔬 While SSRIs are believed to “correct” serotonin deficiencies, this review suggests such deficiencies might not even exist in the first place. Alarmingly, some evidence hints these drugs may actually reduce serotonin over time.

🧠 The researchers caution that up to 90% of the public believes in this now-questioned theory—potentially discouraging hope for recovery and limiting non-drug treatment options, such as therapy, lifestyle changes, and social support.

The authors advocate for a shift in mental health care: focusing more on life stressors, trauma, and socio-environmental factors, and less on unproven biological explanations.

📚 Source:
Moncrieff, J., Cooper, R. E., Stockmann, T., Amendola, S., Hengartner, M. P., & Horowitz, M. A. (2022). The serotonin theory of depression: A systematic umbrella review of the evidence. Molecular Psychiatry.

14/07/2025

Great article in the Guardian about pain and how we all feel it differently. The amount of pain we experience is due to many factors including past experience, belief, situation etc.
I remember hurting myself when I was playing when I was young and only felt a small scratch until my mum looked and said (sharp intake of breath) "ouch, that MUST hurt!". I looked down and saw a deep gash in my thigh and my brain reassessed the risk to my health and responded by turning my pain up!

Do you scream when you stub your toe? Could you play a grand final with a shattered jaw, or work all day as your belly fills with blood? When it comes to suffering, perspective is everything

06/07/2025

As I was watching and listening to a thunder storm just now, I was thinking that we all differ in terms of what makes us feel safe. I love ❤️ thunder storms (some do call me strange 😆).

I have memories of sitting on my window sill at night as a small child, with the window open and watching lightning zig-zag across the sky. I loved the loud rumble of thunder and I found the sound of the rain so soothing. My dog, however would cower under the bed, terrified.

What feels safe or calming for one person is not the same for others. It is based on our past experience.

A sense of safety, (or calm, peace, ease or just neutrality) is essential as a foundation for all my work. A safe nervous system allows the body to relax, and the mind to become calm. The fight, flight or freeze system (sympathetic system) can switch to the rest and digest system (parasympathetic system).

When we're safe, we feel able to connect with others, and we can be in the present moment.

When the nervous system learns to feel safe, it switches off the danger signals, such as:
- pain,
- digestive issues,
- fatigue,
- anxiety and so on.

Here are a list of some things that can give us a sense of safety:

· Visualising or being on a beach/ near a waterfall /in water/ in a bath / walking in woods
· Focusing on the breath or a part of the body that feels good (or neutral)
· Petting or cuddling a pet
· Visualising having a powerful being embrace you or be with you
· Mindful movement
· Dancing
· Singing
· Creative activities such as sewing, drawing
· Physical activities, such as running, walking

What gives you a sense of safety?

13/06/2025

I absolutely adore this time of year! There's nothing quite like slipping off your shoes and feeling the cool grass or warm sand under your feet. Being outdoors, surrounded by the soothing sounds, sensations, and breathtaking beauty of nature is inherently relaxing and a proven boost to our well-being. But let’s take it a step further—let's talk about grounding.

Grounding, or earthing, is a powerful concept. The Earth is a natural powerhouse of electrical charge, and when we connect directly with it, our bodies absorb electrons that can work wonders for our health. These electrons are believed to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation, potentially alleviating various health concerns.

And this isn't just a trendy idea—science backs it up with incredible benefits, including:
- 🌙 Better sleep
- ⏰ Normalized day–night cortisol rhythms
- 🌈 Reduced pain
- 🌿 Decreased inflammation
- 😌 Lower stress and anxiety levels

Research indicates that grounding can shift our autonomic nervous system from a sympathetic (stressed) state to a parasympathetic (relaxed) one, boosting heart rate variability for better health.

It’s simple and absolutely free—so why not step outside and hug a tree? For those extra grounding benefits, consider investing in grounding mats or sheets to sleep on—hands down, the best way to ensure you’re getting enough grounding each day. Don’t forget about earthing shoes for the chillier months!

Get connected with nature and feel the difference today! 🌍✨

18/05/2025

Just as a plant thrives when given the right conditions, so do we. Our well-being depends on more than just getting through the day — we need connection, nourishing food, restful sleep, safety, purpose, shelter, and a sense of autonomy. When we're struggling, it's often a sign that something is out of balance.

As a therapist, I know self care is essential. I've had burnout and don't want to end up back there again. Some of the ways I care for myself are:
- set boundaries,
- take time out to reflect or meditate,
- spend time in nature,
- do what I love,
- have fun,
- eat well
- connect with others.

How are you caring for your mental health?

What do you need in order to truly thrive?

16/05/2025

Loved connecting with other like-minded professionals this week!
Working solo can sometimes feel isolating, so it was refreshing to meet with the Health and Wellbeing Networking group in Reigate. Hearing from so many passionate people, all focused on helping others live better lives, was truly inspiring.

We all bring something unique to the table — and that diversity means there’s someone for everyone. 💫

Big thanks to Abigail Evans Photography for the photos

22/04/2025

I was recently interviewed by Georgie at SIRPA about my recovery from chronic pain. You can watch it here.

Maria - Sirpa UK

21/04/2025

How beautiful nature is! I enjoyed a number of glimmers today (if you don't know what I mean by glimmer, see my previous post!)

Nature helps us to get out of being in our heads or on our phones and noticing what's going on around us.

How's your Easter weekend going?

21/04/2025

Glimmers:
Think of glimmers as the bright spots in your day—the beautiful counterpoints to triggers. These are those moments when you experience a spark of positive emotion, no matter how brief.

When we face pain, depression, or any kind of suffering, it’s easy to get trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts and feelings. But by making a conscious effort to seek out glimmers, we open ourselves up to recognize them more readily. Practicing mindfulness allows us to immerse ourselves in the present, making it easier to spot these moments of joy.

Once you identify a glimmer, embrace it! Dive deep into that feeling to amplify its warmth. Whether it’s the gentle caress of sunlight on your skin or the exhilarating joy of a stroll along the beach, every positive feeling matters.

What glimmers light up your life? 🌟✨