In the ebb and flow of life, I find myself writing this editorial from a hospital bed. Not Covid-19, which is something we need to say first nowadays. Essentially, it is an unsurprising surgical procedure for a man of 67 years of age. These impactful events are disrupting and a little discomforting, but an excellent reminder about the importance of knowing about our biology and the issues of changes that come for many reasons, including the simple, natural changes of aging. I am assured that all is well, and I am in good condition for recovery and healing. One of the simplest things to appreciate for a healthy life is to keep cortisol levels to their natural flow. Excess and chronic stresses, anxieties, and agitation add allostatic load and pressure on our capacity to recover and heal. I am grateful to my curiosity, my unquenchable sense of wonder, and my love for a wonderful partner, family and friends.

This is a perfect context for the content of this issue where we are, once again, given an opportunity to learn about our biology, our thoughts and our ability to recover and heal utilizing our own natural capacities. Jennifer Sweeton shares a chapter from her new book, Eight Key Brain Areas of Mental Health and Illness (Norton, November, 2021). We will explore the Thalamus in this fascinating chapter.

Francis Lee Stevens puts forward a challenge that I think needs to brought to the very front of our conversation: Is the Science of Psychotherapy Changing? He opens our minds to ideas to explore. Times are changing and we need to change with it. What will you think about this?

Oliver J Morgan is a very welcome return author to the magazine. He has shared an updated version of the chapter he wrote for Interpersonal Neurobiology and Clinical Practice edited by Daniel Siegel, Allan Schore and Louis Cozolino (W. W. Norton, September, 2021). Addiction Recovery in a Time of Social Distancing: COVID-19 and Recovery-oriented Practice is a timely and important addition to our understanding of how to manage in these testing times.

So, this issue moves us through knowledge, information, ideas and understanding of how to remain well, enable recovery and heal when needed. As always, I am fascinated by what the writers have to say and their generosity in sharing with us here at The Science of Psychotherapy. I shall endeavour to stay well and age slowly. There is so much joy yet to experience.

RICHARD HILL | EDITOR