Intuition is something most people would have experienced at one time or another; it’s that gut-feeling or ‘sixth sense.' It’s instinctive by nature, independent of rational analysis or deductive thinking. But can we actively develop our intuition and learn how to better utilise it? Author Dr Cate Howell believes we can, and sets about to empower us to use intuition in everyday life.

Intuition is divided into three parts. In the first, she explores the nature of intuition from different perspectives, including philosophy and psychology, religion and spirituality. She also looks at the use of intuition in decision-making in the fields of business, health and teaching. The second part of the book is more practical and considers types of intuition, how to develop your intuition and then use it in everyday life with a practical seven-step plan. Steps explored for developing intuition include meditation, mindfulness, creativity, kindness and service. The final part of the book looks at some issues related to intuition, such as dreams and synchronicity, and how the development of one’s intuition often seems to correlate with an increased sense of peace, purpose and joy in life.

"Intuition is a vital part of life and practice and now we have a book that will help us to develop this essential skill." - Prof Ian Wilson, Associate Dean, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Wollongong

Dr Cate Howell is a GP, therapist, educator and author. She had a Year 2000 Churchill Fellowship and completed a PhD on depression. In 2012 Cate was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for services to mental health. Cate currently works as a General Practitioner with Defence, and also has a private practice focusing on mental health and various teaching activities. Cate has a passion for sharing practical information about mental health through writing, and she has authored five books on mental health and counselling. She is a co-author of Release Your Worries (with Dr Michele Murphy), and the author of Intuition, The Changing Man, and Listening, Learning, Caring and Counselling (all Exisle). She loves spending time with her family and friends, walking on the beach, reading and swimming.