Arjan Bogaers, Certified Life Coach / Chronic Illness Coach

Born in the Netherlands (1960), a fairly adventurous youth saw me travel-work throughout Mediterranean Europe. My journeys eventually brought me to South Africa in 1984 where, several years later, I began my career in the healthcare sector as a hospital nurse in Cape Town. After completion, in my wish to broaden my knowledge and experience in healthcare I was employed by Weleda South Africa, whilst learning about the proper use of homoeopathic medicine, herbal remedies, and nutritional supplements. This was followed by many years of private patient care and in-house physical therapy. In 2008, the deterioration of a spinal injury resulting from a much earlier MVA, caused sudden impairment and severe chronic pain, forcing me to abandon all my hands-on care work. This was a big crisis in my life, not in the least because of the lack of a clear future prognosis regarding my functioning. Some thirteen years later, things have stabilized to the point where I am between 60 - 70 % physically impaired. This was, by all means, a turning point in my life, offering what in coaching and counseling is referred to as a ‘defining moment’: a moment that asked me to redefine my life. As part of that task, I decided to bring my extensive healthcare experiences together as a coach and counselor. My journey of recovery and renewal ran parallel with my trainings, and in 2011 Heart and Soul Coaching was established. Thus, I bring with me a long history of healthcare work in a variety of capacities. The online practice Heart and Soul Coaching for Chronic Illness - https://www.heartandsoul.co.za - offers a caring and confidential platform for those who need emotional and mental support in dealing with chronic health issues, accompanied by chronic pain and/or disability. Through my own experiences and as a result of the wonderful people I have worked with, I have developed the conviction that we can recommit to our life, no matter the circumstances.