Impact Coach NZ, Dunedin (2025)

16/11/2025

🌟 Embracing Emotions: The Power of Naming and Learning

In a world that often encourages us to suppress our feelings, it’s time to reclaim our emotional vocabulary. Naming our emotions is not just a therapeutic exercise; it’s a powerful step towards understanding ourselves and turning discomfort into growth.

🧠 Research shows that labeling our emotions can significantly reduce their intensity and impact, allowing us to respond more thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.

According to a study published in Psychological Science, participants who named their emotions during a stressful situation reported feeling less emotional distress.

✨ “Emotions are not something to be ashamed of. They are the compass that guides you through life.” – Brené Brown

Learning through discomfort opens up avenues for personal development. Instead of avoiding or dismissing our feelings, we can view them as teachers. Each emotion carries valuable information about our needs, desires, and boundaries.

AND THIS! When we acknowledge and articulate our emotions, we can channel them positively. Whether it’s using anger to fuel our passions, sadness to foster empathy, or anxiety to motivate action, our feelings can serve as catalysts for change.

“The ability to name our emotions can change the way we live, work, and connect with others.” – Susan David, Emotional Agility

So next time you feel something stirring inside, take a moment to name that emotion. Allow yourself to feel it, understand it, and use it to propel you forward.

You have the emotional strength within you.

11/11/2025

🌊 Cold Plunging: Unlocking Benefits for Body and Mind ❄️

Have you ever considered the power of a cold plunge? Or are you a regular cold plunger?

This age-old practice is continuing to make waves in the wellness community. Let’s explore how cold plunging can impact us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Physical Benefits:
1. Improved Circulation: Cold exposure stimulates blood flow, promoting cardiovascular health. Studies suggest that cold water immersion can enhance your circulatory system and reduce inflammation (Koolhaas, 2022).

2. Boosted Immune System: Research indicates that regular cold exposure may increase the production of white blood cells, bolstering your immune response (Sheffield et al., 2023).

Mental Resilience:
- Enhanced Mood: Cold plunging can release endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good hormones.” A study by McCoy et al. (2021) revealed that cold exposure could significantly decrease feelings of anxiety and depression, making it a natural mood booster.

- Mental Clarity: The shock of cold water can improve focus and mental clarity, as it increases adrenaline levels, sharpening your cognitive function.

Emotional Well-being:
- Stress Reduction: Engaging in cold plunging can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress (Martinez, 2020).

- Mindfulness Practice: The intensity of the cold provides a unique opportunity to practice mindfulness, encouraging you to stay and be present and connected to your body.

Spiritual Connection:
- Increased Awareness: Cold plunges can deepen your connection to the greatness of God, the creater of nature and your own body, fostering a sense of awe, appreciation and greatness. The bible says, ‘be still and know that I am God’ Psalm, 46-10. #

🗣️ “The cold is a great teacher; it shows you the limits of your mind and body.” – Wim Hof 💬

Join the cold plunge movement and elevate your well-being!

Have you tried it yet? Share your experiences below! 👇❄️

Darran

11/11/2025

🌟 Every moment presents a new opportunity to become the best version of yourself. As Ant Middleton, the UK Special Forces hero, shared on his podcast, this journey never stops—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. 💪✨

And let me know if you’d like me to send you the podcast link below! 👇🏼

It’s time to shift your mindset, embrace excitement about who you are, and take personal responsibility for your growth. You hold the keys to your own journey! And again, not just physically but mentally, emotionally, and I believe spiritually.

Remember, seeking support is essential on this journey of self-discovery.

Let’s dive deep into the incredible depths of who you are! 💖

Darran

04/11/2025

🌟 Healing from Trauma: An Insight from Dr. Gabor Maté 🌟

“Trauma is not what happens to us, but what we hold inside in the absence of an empathetic witness.” - Dr. Gabor Maté

Dr. Maté emphasises the profound impact that unresolved trauma can have on our lives.

Doing the inner work is essential for healing and reclaiming our authentic selves.

It’s about understanding our past, processing our emotions, and cultivating self-compassion.

If you’re ready to embark on this transformative journey and work through your trauma, I’m here to help! 🌱✨

🔗 Visit my website: www.impactcoach.co.nz (http://www.impactcoach.co.nz)

📩 Or send me a direct message to get started!

04/11/2025

🧠✨ Unpacking Trauma vs. Owning Your Own Bu****it with Dr. Gabor Maté ✨🧠

Dr. Gabor Maté brilliantly highlights an important distinction: unpacking trauma involves delving into our past to understand its effects on our present, while owning our own bu****it means taking responsibility for our actions and choices in the here and now.

Healing isn’t just about looking back; it’s about integrating those experiences and being honest with ourselves. It’s a journey of self-awareness and growth, recognizing the patterns we create and how they impact our relationships and well-being.

Are you ready to unpack your trauma and embrace this powerful journey of self-discovery? 💪💖

Let’s navigate this path together!

03/11/2025

🌟 Exciting news! 🎙️ Yesterday, I had an incredible experience making a podcast with my good friend and founding owner Lee of .nz…Well and Being Studio in Dunedin.

We dove deep into a variety of well-being challenges, sharing our personal journeys, strategies and insights on how we gave navigated through life’s ups and downs.

I can’t wait for you all to listen when it’s published and released through our local radio station and Spotify! 🎉

📻 Tune in to OAR 105.4FM Dunedin for the broadcast! Huge thanks to NZ on Air for their support.

Let’s spread the message of well-being together! 💚✨

Darran

23/10/2025

Unlocking Healing Through Somatic Trauma Therapy

“Your body keeps the score.” – Bessel van der Kolk

Have you ever felt like your emotions are trapped in your body? 🤔

Somatic trauma therapy connects the mind and body, helping you release stored trauma and rediscover your inner peace.

💭 Reflect: What sensations or emotions arise when you think about your past experiences?

Healing isn’t just a mental process; it’s a journey rooted in the body. By tuning into physical sensations, we can uncover deep-seated emotions and patterns.

⭐️ Practice body awareness! Spend a few minutes each day focusing on how your body feels in different situations. Notice any tension or discomfort and breathe into those areas.

🔄 What small step can you take today to honor your body and its feelings?

Remember, acknowledging your experiences is the first step. Your healing journey is unique, and you’re not alone.

16/10/2025

From Spirituality to Concrete Faith: A Journey to the One True God

In a world bustling with endless pursuits of spirituality, many are seeking connection beyond the physical realm. While exploring the vast universe can be enlightening, it’s essential to recognise where that journey leads us. The transition from a broad sense of spirituality to a concrete faith in God and Jesus is a crucial step towards true fulfillment and purpose.

In today’s world, many often say, “God is in everyone and everything.” While this perspective highlights a recognition of divinity around us, it’s crucial to understand the deeper truth: God is the Creator of everyone and everything.

When we believe that “God is in everyone and everything,” we acknowledge a sense of connectedness and presence in nature and humanity. This view promotes empathy and love, encouraging us to see the divine sparks within ourselves and others. However, it can sometimes blur the lines of our relationship with God as the supreme Creator.

In contrast, recognising God as the Creator establishes a foundational truth: God is separate from His creation but intimately involved in it. He is the master architect who designed each person and every aspect of the universe with purpose.

This understanding invites us into a personal relationship with Him, acknowledging His sovereignty, power, and love.

Embracing the truth that God is above all, encourages reverence, gratitude, and worship.

Rather than merely viewing God as an abstract presence, we relate to Him as our Father, the ultimate source of love and guidance. He is powerful, personal, and loving—inviting us to connect, grow, and thrive in His great plan.

14/10/2025

Coaching focuses on performance and personal development, helping individuals reach specific goals through structured guidance.

However, it goes a step further—it’s about drawing from genuine life experience to empathise deeply with someone’s challenges.

Coaching is not just about providing tips; it’s rooted in shared experiences and the ability to connect on a deeper level.

It’s about understanding your struggles because they have been there, too.

To all the coaches out there, remember: without that life experience, how can you authentically guide someone through their unique challenges?

A quote by Aristotle resonates here: “Those who know, do. Those that understand, teach.” But can someone truly teach if they haven’t walked the path with you?

Let’s elevate our conversations around coaching to ensure we’re not just getting advice, but wisdom rooted in experience. Share your thoughts below!

12/10/2025

Understanding the Difference: Coaching vs Wise Coaching

As we navigate our personal and professional journeys, we often turn to mentors and coaches for guidance. But what’s the difference between regular mentoring and coaching compared to wise mentoring and coaching? 👇🏼

🤔 Mentoring typically involves sharing knowledge and experience from a more knowledgeable person to someone seeking growth. Coaching focuses on performance and personal development, helping individuals reach specific goals through structured guidance.

🙋🏻‍♂️However, wise mentoring goes a step further—it’s about drawing from genuine life experience to empathise deeply with someone’s challenges.

A quote by Aristotle resonates here:
“Those who know, do. Those that understand, teach.”

But can someone truly teach if they haven’t walked the path with you?

🚀 Wise Mentoring is not just about providing tips; it’s rooted in shared experiences and the ability to connect on a deeper level.

🛑It’s about understanding your struggles because they have been there, too. 🛑

To all the coaches out there, remember: without that life experience, how can you authentically guide someone through their unique challenges? 🌍

Here are some questions to ask potential mentors or coaches to gauge their depth of experience:

1. What life experiences shaped your perspective on this topic?

2. Can you share a significant challenge you faced, and how did you overcome it?

3. How do your personal experiences influence your coaching or mentoring style?

4. What lessons have you learned that you believe can greatly benefit someone facing similar obstacles?

Let’s elevate our conversations around mentoring and coaching to ensure we’re not just getting advice, but wisdom rooted in experience.

Share your thoughts below! 💭👇

12/10/2025

Can You Be Yourself in Every Part of Your Life?

In a world full of expectations and pressures, finding the courage to be your authentic self can be a journey.

The question we face is, “Can you see yourself being ‘you’ in every aspect of your life?” 🤔

As Ralph Waldo Emerson once wisely said, “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”

Here are some strategies to help you embrace your true self everywhere:

1. Self-Reflection: Take time to understand who you are. Journaling your thoughts can clarify your values and beliefs.

2. Set Boundaries: Protect your energy by saying “no” to situations that don’t align with your true self. Your time is precious—spend it wisely!

3. Surround Yourself with Support: Seek out people who uplift and accept you for who you truly are.

Remember, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” – Jim Rohn.

4. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Accept that nobody is perfect, and that’s what makes us unique!

5. Authentic Expression: Whether in your style, your passions, or your career, let your personality shine through! Embrace your quirks; they’re what make you, you.

Remember, the journey of being yourself is ongoing. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it!

Comment below and share your thoughts on authenticity. 💬👇✨

02/10/2025

🌟 Our nervous system is an incredible and intricate part of our survival, alerting us to threats and activating our fight, flight, or freeze responses.

However, sometimes these responses can get stuck, leaving us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or constantly on edge.

✨ As a somatic trauma therapist, I help individuals reconnect with their bodies and release these stuck responses, guiding you towards healing and balance. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma, know that you’re not alone.

💬 Ready to take the first step towards healing?

Reach out for support today—together, we can work towards restoring your peace and well-being.

Impact Coach NZ

16/11/2025

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