Struggling with Arthritis?

Arthritis Action is a registered national charity.
It offers a self-management programme to it's members, helping them to enjoy a more active life with less painful symptoms by making changes to their lifestyle.

Professionally registered healthcare professionals, such as Val Davis, provide Acupuncture to members. Members can benefit from having four acupuncture treatments free of charge.

Why not join Arthritis Action for only £20 a year, and benefit from range of dietary advice and self-management measures, as well as access to Acupuncture treatments?

Give Val a call to find out more. 

Val Davis, B.Sc., Lic.Ac., M.B.Ac.C.

01395 578050

Clinics in Axminster and Sidmouth

Yoga For Everybody

      New course starting February - March 2015  

       Wednesdays 2.00 - 3.15 pm

        FEBRUARY                       4th

                                                    11th

                                                    18th

                                                    25th

                                               

       MARCH                              4th

                                                    11th

                                                    18th  

                                                    25th           

                                                               

8 CLASSES £48.00

TO BOOK: contact Kath Woods 01404 831605

kath.woods2012@gmail.com

                                                               

                                          

                                     

                                       

                                        

                            

                                        

                      

                                       

NEW FOR 2015 AT AXMINSTER HEALTH AND WELLBEING CENTRE

Medical Herbalist - Roots to Health

Roots to Health is  a complementary consultancy, advice and prescription practice based in Honiton and Axminster, East Devon and run by Jayne Palmer BSc MNIMH and John Lister.

Roots to Health shows how modern herbal medicine may help with your particular health problem, covering everything from Psoriasis to raised blood pressure.

Modern herbal medicine is the use of plant extracts, the oldest and most widely used form of medicine known, combined with up to date scientific research to treat today's common health complaints, maladies and disease.


Web: rootstohealth.co.uk

Tel;   01404 871569

Mob: 07984227035

Elizabeth Bray

Registered Nutritional Therapist &Associate Naturopath

Nutritional Therapy, Allergy Testing, Weight Loss, Health Problems. Practising since 2005,
I see clients with a wide range of health problems, offering allergy testing for both foods and 
airborne substances, optimising health through natural nutrition with the use of supplements if required. I use scientific laboratory testing to assess and identify nutritional imbalance that may be contributing to symptoms.

•  Tests for vitamin D levels, toxic and essential minerals, essential fatty acid levels, zinc levels, chronic fatigue, imbalances in gut flora, Candida and many others. Weight problems often result from their association with allergies and food intolerance.
• Food intolerance testing, lgG antibody blood test, symptoms often result from eating foods that are causing a problem.
• Identifying nutritional balance, supporting the body towards maintaining health, providing personalised and effective nutrition programmes. My philosophy is that food, used to its best advantage , maintains and restores health. I frequently work alongside other healthcare and medical practitioners if needed.

Degree qualified in herbal medicine and health sciences at The University of East London and a diploma in nutrition at The College of Natural Nutrition in Bristol.  Registered with BANT, the Professional Association for Nutritional Therapists, the NNA (Naturopathic Nutrition Association), CNHC (complementary & Natural Healthcare Council) registered practitioner. Web site: -
www.body-balance.co.uk.

Nutritional Therapy Descriptor

'A health and nutrition questionnaire is sent to the client to complete. The practitioner  asks detailed questions about current health concerns, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, medical history, family history, lifestyle, levels of physical activity, use of medication, supplements and diet. The practitioner then evaluates these results at the consultation which takes one hour.'

'Using the extensive evidence base for nutritional science, a personalised, safe and effective nutrition and lifestyle programme is developed. Follow up appointments may be recommended, but are not always necessary.'

It is important to choose a qualified nutritional therapist who has undertaken all the necessary training. By choosing a Nutritional Therapist who is a member of BANT you can be confident that they follow the strict BANT code of Professional Practice & have professional indemnity insurance for clinical practice.'

www.BANT.org.uk

Yoga in the traditional way!

Begin your yoga journey with Eleni. 

Eleni is offering 6 private yoga classes for just £60

Imagine the benefits from having 1:1 teaching over the course of 6 sessions.

Eleni's view is that the 5,000 year old multi-faceted tradition called Yoga refers to one thing only and that is Happiness.

Yoga can clear the mind and lead to a harmonious, peaceful and happy life. 

It can be a means to explore your true self and help you identify your thoughts, emotions and conditional behaviours.

What is kinesiology?

Kinesiology, through muscle testing, uses the body's biofeedback mechanism to gain information about the client. Muscle testing is non-invasive and locates imbalances in the realms which make up a human being. These realms are structural, energetic, mental emotional and nutritional. If a muscle circuit has an imbalance or deficiency in any of these realms it will effect how the muscle responds.

Balance is restored by light touch, energetic tools, lymphatic massage and emotional techniques. When a muscle is strengthened by a combination of any of these energy is released which enhances all functions and the muscle.

Our new therapist, Jane, is a kinesiologist. She has been practicing for many years from the Natural Health Practice in Exeter.

Jane will be joining the team here at Axminster Health and Wellbeing Centre from January 2015. She is taking bookings now for the New Year so please feel free to give her a call on 07850565182

Further information is also available from www.holistictherapyexeter.co.uk

New Yoga Sadhana class with Eleni Markante 

Every Wednesdays 10 - 11.30 am    (6 classes £40)

Also one to one sessions available on request

Eleni had her first taste of Yoga in 1997 at the Life Centre in Notting Hill, London, and fell in love with the practice.

On relocating to Athens,Greece, she practised at the NYSY Studios and it was here that she took her 200hrs/NYSY/Yoga Alliance/Bhakti Flow teacher training under the loving care of Vivi Letsou and Rusty Wells.

As a visionary and activist for positive change, she loves to share the way of Yoga and as a permanent student, she is trained in different styles only to find that the path of her evolution is partly in her heart and in the hearts of those she meets.

Classes are breath focused to quiet the mind and challenging to purify the body. There is no prerequisite to be flexible or strong, fit or young - just turn up, get to know yourself and keep coming back to practice.

Eleni teaches group and private Yoga sessions.

Book by sending an email to: - markante@yahoo.co.uk 

                                                  Mobile - 07455 976047

precision reflexology

  Precision Reflexology

Precision reflexology is a unique gentle form of Reflexology applied to the feet (or hands).

Massage and stimulation of specific points are used to release energy blocks allowing the body to relax, rebalance and heal itself. In addition, Precision Reflexology employs a "linking" technique which uses both hands to join two or more relevant reflex points thus increasing the power and the holistic nature of the treatment.

Because Precision Reflexology is an effective, non-invasive and very gentle therapy, it is suitable for people of all ages.

The School of Precision Reflexology, located in Devon, is the only recognised teaching establishment giving full training in this technique.

Barbara has trained at this school and is a member of The Federation of Precision Reflexologists.

Why Precision Reflexology?

1. It is a deeply relaxing, non-invasive, very gentle but powerful therapy. It uses a light touch technique. In addition to the normal reflex stimulation technique, Precision Reflexology accesses the person's subtle energy by linking two or more reflex points simultaneously, increasing the power and holistic nature of the treatment, and is suitable for people of all ages.

2. It can be a great rebalancing treatment at times of physical and/or emotional stress, insomnia, or general anxiety. Headaches, fatigue, low mood, digestive problems, high/low blood pressure, aches and pains,tinnitus ect, may all be alleviated.

3. It can help with specifics like back pain and repetitive strain injuries.

4. It is suitable for people of all ages.

5. No need to undress - just remove socks and shoes, lie in a special reclining  chair, listen to some music if wanted, and enjoy!!

Information on Precision Reflexology specifically can be viewed at

http://www.reflexologymoves.co.uk/precision reflexology.htm

and www.precisionreflexology.com

SPECIAL OFFER FOR JANUARY AND FEBRUARY 

ALL APPOINTMENTS WILL BE REDUCED TO £25 INSTEAD OF £30.

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE  AT £25.

Natural Breathing Training Company

Learn to breathe well, naturally

Asthma & Allergies?
Snoring & lack of sleep?
Stress & anxiety?

Do any of these resonate with you?

Why not register for a taster session

Thursday 6th November 2014

Axminster Health & Wellbeing Centre

Special Offer

Special offer....

Would you like to stop smoking?

Val Davis is offering stop smoking treatments.

Stop smoking treatments: Get a group of two or more people together to do Val's stop smoking course and get £40 off the cost of the course!

Facial Revitalisation Acupuncture (FRA): Book and pay for a course of 5 treatments in advance and get one free!

Returning or new clients - you don't have to be ill to benefit from treatment. Acupuncture can help you to have more energy, strengthen your immune system, sleep better and help to feel well in yourself.
Book a treatment with Val and get it half price, if you refer a new patient.

Check out Val's websites:

www.facialacupuncture.org.uk
www.devonacupuncture.org.uk

With very best wishes to you all

Val Davis, BSc., Lic.Ac. M.B.Ac.C
Clinics: Sidmouth, Axminster
(01395) 578050

Read Easy - Adult Literacy Scheme

Help Read Easy win the Lloyds Bank Commmunity Fund Award... VOTE NOW!!

Read Easy Axminster and Seaton has been shortlisted for a Lloyds Bank Community Fund award  and could receive a grant up to £3000.

This local group trains and supports volunteers to give reading tuition to adults who struggle with reading. Many people with reading difficulties are too embarrassed to seek help if it means joining a class so Read Easy offers an alternative by providing free, friendly, flexible, one-to-one coaching to anyone who wants to improve their skills. New readers meet with their coaches twice a week at approved local venues working in private at their own pace building reading skills, confidence and self esteem. This potentially enables them to contribute to the community through increased work and social opportunities.

This award would make a huge difference to the number of people we could support - the fund would be used to train volunteer coaches, provide free reading manuals and other resources for readers and go towards the administrative costs of running such a group.

Please vote for us - you can do this online at www.lloydsbank.com/communityfund  (type in Read Easy in the Find a Cause box and follow instructions) or text VOTE FFT to 61119 or visit a local Lloyds Bank branch.

Health & Wellbeing Exhibition

@Axminster Guildhall
Saturday 13th Sept
10am04pm
FREE ENTRY

Here's a list of the various therapies, stalls and activities we have confirmed for the exhibition so far...

Therapies:

• Acupuncture
• Aromatherapy
• Breathing Techniques
• Buddhist Meditation
• Chiropodist
• Counselling
• Emotional Freedom Technique
• Healing
• Homeopathy
• Hypnotherapy
• Massage
• Nuero Linguistic Programming
• Precision Reflexology
• Nutritional Therapy
• Transformational Breathing

Stalls:

• Barefoot Books
• Diabetes UK
• Forever Living (Aloe Vera)
• The Living Tree
• Music/CDs
• Only Fools and Flutterbys
• Riverford
• Traynor Pinhole Glasses

Fitness:

• Belly Dancing
• Nordic Walking
• Personal Training
• Pilates

Elizabeth Bray - Nutritionist

Nutrition

Elizabeth Bray BSc DNN MBANT CNHC reg

01823 480570

07980601670

www.body-balance.co.​uk

liz@somersetspa.co.uk

Nutritional therapy is a complementary therapy, not an alternative medicine. It works well alongside conventional medicine. It is most relevant for individuals with long term sub optimal health, as well as those looking for support to enhance their health and wellbeing.

Practitioners consider each individual to be unique and recommend personalised nutrition and lifestyle programmes rather than a 'one size fits all' approach.

For more information about Liz follow these links to visit her personal blog.

http://body-balance.co.uk/dna-testing-for-weight-loss/

http://body-balance.co.uk/latest-research-on-fasting-and-immune-system-benefits/

Val Davis - Acupuncture & Facial Revitalisation

Val Davis B.sc.,Lic.Ac.,M.B.Ac.C.

Acupuncture & Facial Revitalisation

01395 578050 / 07870 881596

www.devonacupuncture.org.uk

valdavis@btinternet.co.uk

Val has recently become a member of The Arthritic Association. The Arthritic Association aims to help you adapt your lifestyle so that you can better manage your arthritis.  It is the only UK arthritis charity that offers direct help with an eating plan and hands on physical therapy tailored to your individual needs.   You can enjoy all this for a fraction of its true cost, due to the generosity of people who have remembered the Association in their will and who have wanted to help people with arthritis to enjoy a more active life with less pain.  Join the Association and gain access to Associated Practitioners like Val who can help you in your area.

July

Job Vacancy

Centre Co-ordinator

(Maternity Cover)

35hrs Mon - Fri  £8 per hour

(job share a possibility)

You’ll be responsible for the smooth running of the Centre as well as fundraising and grant applications while the Manager is on maternity leave. Along with your passion for excellent customer service you are enthusiastic, motivated, hard-working and flexible with a ‘can-do’ attitude. You have leadership experience and understand the importance of being a team player.
Please send C.V with covering letter by email or post to Gillian Perrow Chair of Trustees info@axminsterwellbeing.com or Hanover House, Chard Street, Axminster EX13 5DZ  Closing date 16th July 2014

Volunteers Needed!

We are also looking for keen volunteers to be part of the Centre. We specifically need support with:

• Reception
• Gardening
• Day-to-day running of the Food Bank

if you would be interested in becoming involved with any of these roles or feel you have a different skill to offer please email info@axminsterwelllbeing.com or phone 01297 32331

Events

Health & Wellbeing Exhibition

@ Axminster Guildhall

Saturday 13th September 10am-4pm

This event is being held to showcase the best of what this area has to offer with regard to all things health and wellbeing. There will be complementary therapists, traders, fitness demonstrations and more. If you would be interested in having a stand at the event please phone the Centre on 01297 32331 or email info@axminsterwellbieng.com

Foundation Course in Emotional Therapeutic Counselling

Once a month for 5 months

Starts 4th October 2014

Fee £700 (£630 if paid at the time of booking - stage payments also accepted)
Contact: 0330 111 4278

The foundation course is for those people who wish to understand the role of emotion in our lives. It also provides the first level for the diploma in Emotional Therapeutic counselling accredited by the National Counselling Society

Emotional therapeutic counselling course is for those who are suffering turmoil in their lives, whether brought about by a crisis, a long term situation, persistent unhappiness, depression, anxiety, apathy or difficulties in relating to others.

Gillian Perrow - Counsellor

RELATIONSHIP COUNSELLING

Some couples tend to come for counselling as a ‘last resort’ believing ‘it’s too late’.
 So, do seriously consider taking action in time to make a difference, especially if:

·      One of you is insecure, jealous, possessive
·      You are often snappy or moody with each other
·      Sex rarely happens
·      Discussions become rows
·      You can’t discuss feelings with each other

Couple counselling helps you understand each other by:

·      Improving communication
·      Helping you to express your feelings as well as your disagreements
·      Exploring the conflicts in your present and previous relationships
·      Forming healthier patterns of relating to others

I also work with people who are ending a marriage, civil partnership or a long-term relationship.  I can help people going through this painful process to overcome emotional difficulties and develop the confidence to rebuild their lives.

June

Therapist of the Month

Deborah Pearce HPD

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy

01404 813388 / 07939 840788
www.deborahpearce.co​.uk

Deborah qualified as a clinical hypnotherapist in 2008 having gained the Hypnotherapy Practitioner Diploma (HPD), considered to be the ‘gold standard’ in hypnotherapy training. Using Solution Focused therapy techniques she has helped many hundreds of clients overcome a range of difficulties. She is a Hypnotherapy Supervisor and in November 2014 will become a lecturer in Hypnotherapy as a member of the teaching staff at the prestigious Clifton Practice.

One of the misconceptions about hypnotherapy is that it is just about hypnosis.  The truth is that hypnosis is only part of the therapy. Much of the benefit is derived from psychotherapy techniques employed by the practitioner during the therapy sessions.  Deborah’s sessions are structured to include Solution-Focused work with the client followed by hypnosis.  The hypnosis helps to consolidate the work carried out in the first part of the session.
Deborah gives each new client a relaxation CD to listen to each night to familiarise them with the concept of self-hypnosis, and to start the therapeutic ball rolling.

Hypnotherapy can help with a range of issues:
• Reducing anxiety
• Getting a better enjoyment of life
• Improving self-confidence
• Helping with exam nerves
• Overcoming fears and phobias
• Improving sleep
• Helping improve physical conditions that are anxiety related
• Plus much more

Solution Focused Hypnotherapy helps clients to move forward in a positive way, so talking about problems or analysing what’s wrong is actively discouraged. By helping clients to focus on their ‘preferred future’ Hypnotherapists can help them to develop the skills they need to overcome difficulties.

It’s worth noting that Hypnotherapy isn’t something that is ‘done’ to you. You need to involve yourself in the process and be willing to make changes in order to get a better outcome. The good news is that by changing unhelpful patterns of thought you can get a better enjoyment of life.

Learning a new way of thinking (eg thinking confident, self-assuring thoughts) is a bit like learning to drive a car. You learn by repetition and by having enough lessons that you feel able to drive without your instructor sat beside you.

Contact Deborah for a free initial consultation to see if Hypnotherapy can help you enjoy life to the full.

May

Therapist of the Month

Cath du preez MTI - Holistic Massage

07922224749
www.trymymassage.​co.uk

Cath trained in massage at the Bristol College of Massage and Bodywork (BCMB). She has since become a member of the Massage Training Institute (MTI) and the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC). Cath has always been interested in healing, health and complementary therapies and in 2010 decided to follow her life-long passion of becoming a massage therapist.

Cath views physical, emotional and spiritual development as an essential component of her work and she is committed to learning more about herself, others and the world. She has deeply held professional values as well as a natural sensitivity to the needs of others. Cath uses both of these skills to create a safe, non-judgemental and serene space for clients to enjoy their treatment.

Cath has recently began training to be a hypnotherapist and we would like to wish her all the best with this new venture. We are so pleased to see that same passion and spark she shows in her massage transpiring and she continues to develop and widen her skills as a complementary therapist.

We are very sad to say Cath will be leaving us at the end of May as she is moving to Scotland. All of us at the Centre will miss her greatly as I'm sure will her clients. We wish her all the best with her new life and hope she continues in her success as a therapist.

Massage Therapist

In terms of moving forward as a Centre this means we are now looking for a new massage therapist to continue offering this wonderful service. If you or anyone you know may be interested in hiring our rooms on either a contract or ad-hoc basis please get in touch on 01297 32331 or email info@axminsterwellbeing.com

Reiki

RELAXING REIKI

by Maggie Jeffries

Are you feeling tired, rundown or perhaps recovering from a bout of ill health?  Then Reiki can help you.
In summary, it’s channelling of energy via the therapist’s hands to re-vitalise your energy system and relax you. It complements, but does not replace, conventional medicine.
Your energy system is made up of seven main energy centres (also known as “Chakras”); each is associated with a different colour of the spectrum.

In peak health, the energy centres spin, spreading energy throughout the body.  At times of exhaustion and ill- health, these centres can become depleted.  A therapy such as Reiki can re-energise them.
This energy system is also accessed in other therapies, such as acupuncture.

ABOUT REIKI

The term ‘Reiki’ means ‘Universal Energy’ and has its roots in Japan.  It was introduced to the West in the 1930s.
Therapists are trained by certified Reiki Masters, regulated by the UK Reiki Federation: http://www.reikifed.co.uk/.
You can find me in the Dorset section at: http://www.reikifed.co.uk/find-reiki-practitioner-teacher-course

YOUR  REIKI  TREATMENT

You only need remove your shoes before lying on a couch or sitting in a chair – whatever is most comfortable for you. And we are ready to go!
(Sorry, not to the beach...)

Energy is passed to you hands on or hands off, whichever you prefer. I will place my hands over the 7 major energy centres down the middle of the body, and other minor ones, such as the hands, knees and feet.
Let me know if you have any ‘problem areas’ and I’ll concentrate on them. The treatment will take around 45 minutes.

WHAT  WILL  I  FEEL? 

Patient experience is very varied:  from feeling relaxed to tingling, heat and tummy rumbling – the latter is a good sign that energy is entering your system – unless you left home without breakfast of course!

ABOUT ME

I did my training under a Reiki master over the period 2003-5 when I was living in Brighton and am a master
practitioner. I have been volunteering at the Axminster Wellbeing Centre on a Monday morning for a few years now, doing Reiki in return for a donation to the Centre’s funds.  Average donation is £5, which is very good value for such a treatment.

If you’d like to give Reiki a try, please make an appointment by calling the Centre on 01297 32331. I am looking to offer appointments on either Wednesday or Thursday mornings depending on which day receives most interest.  I look forward to seeing you.

April

World Health Day 7th April

World Health Day is a huge event that encourages each and every one of us to think about our health. Common knowledge states that most of us gave up on our New Years resolutions after just 9 days. For those still going strong well done. For those whose will power ran out sooner than they'd hoped maybe this is your chance to give it another go. The Axminster Health and Wellbeing Centre works hard to promote the belief that the word 'health' has a much wider meaning than many of us may have previously considered. We all know about losing weight and getting fit but how many of us actually know how? Here at the Centre we offer workshops and therapies that can help with this. Upcoming workshops include Emotional Eating: our challenges with food, as well as various breathing workshops all of which can support you in working towards a healthier, happier life . Finding a better work/play balance or just being more aware of our physical, emotional and spiritual state are also ways we can take care of our overall health and wellbeing.

To find out more about what the Centre offers visit out website www.axminsterwellbeing.com

Therapist of the Month

Gillian Perrow REL. Cert CC MBCAP - Counselling

Individuals, couples and families
01297 32530 / 07877721297
gillianperrow@btinternet.com
www.axminstercounselling.co​.uk


Gillian has been a practising counsellor since 1990 and clients can draw from over 24 years of counselling and training experience. As a RELATE trained counsellor and a member of the British association of Counselling and Psychotherapy Gillian specialises in relationships for individuals, couples and families. She loves working with people and supporting them with their emotional needs. She is passionate about enabling people to achieve a greater understanding of themselves and their relationship with others.
Counselling can assist you to identify your own personal resources and capabilities, which can be hard to find during times of confusion, conflict or anxiety.  Counselling can help you see your circumstances from a new perspective. Through the Counselling process you will be encouraged, supported and empowered to make positive changes.  As well as helping you cope with a current issue or crisis, we will identify tools you need for the future.

Couple Counselling:

Some couples tend to come for counselling as a ‘last resort’ believing ‘it’s too late’.
Seriously consider taking action in time to make a difference, especially if:
• One of you is insecure, jealous or possessive
• You are often snappy or moody with each other
• Sex rarely happens
• Discussions become rows
• You can’t discuss feelings with each other

Couple counselling helps you understand each other by:
• Improving communication
• Helping you to express your feelings as well as your disagreements
• Exploring the conflicts in your present and previous relationships
• Forming healthier patterns of relating to others
I also work with people who are ending a marriage, civil partnership or a long-term relationship.  I can help people going through this painful process to overcome emotional difficulties and develop the confidence to rebuild their lives.

Family Counselling:

Most families have arguments and sometimes these get out of hand.  Big changes in a family, such as separation, divorce, re-marriage or bereavement, can cause stress for everyone.  Equally an individual family member experiencing health problems, work stress or growing up issues, could impact on the rest of the family.
Family Counselling can reduce conflict which means fewer rows at home and can help everyone cope better with their situation.

Examples of where Family Counselling could help:
• Parents whose different ideas about parenting are causing friction
• Children/young people struggling with sibling relationships
• Parents and children who are struggling to communicate effectively
• Step-families struggling to integrate

In Family Counselling every family member can expect to have a voice and be heard.

Individual Counselling:

Gillian can help you to cope with a current issue or crisis, enabling you to identify the tools you need for the future, in order to appreciate and be kind to yourself.  From this experience we can recognise and transform behaviours, accept change and move on.

Whatever your problem, you really don’t need to feel alone.

Mindfulness & Yoga

Mindfulness

Mindfulness has ancient roots in the Buddhist tradition, but these days it is most often taught without any religious context. Until quite recent times it was of no interest to the great majority of ordinary people – it was for ‘Buddhists, old hippies and eccentrics’.  In 1979 Dr Jon Kabat Zinn began teaching mindfulness at his stress reduction clinic at the University of Massachusetts Medical Centre.  It was highly successful, and through his work mindfulness meditation is now very much in the mainstream. A huge and growing body of research in psychology and neuroscience is showing that it works in ways that can be scientifically evidenced. It is taught in many areas of health-care, in schools, the armed forces, prisons and the corporate and sporting worlds. Tens of thousands of people from all walks of life all over the world have experienced the benefits of mindfulness for themselves.

Mindfulness is awareness of our experience in the present moment, with curiosity and kindness and without judgement.  It is paying attention to what’s happening with us, moment by moment, and being open to and accepting of whatever is unfolding.  We begin meditating by paying attention to very ordinary experiences – the sensations of breathing, for example - that we don’t usually notice.  Daily life mindfulness begins with moment-to-moment awareness of one or two of the things we routinely do, like cleaning teeth or drinking a glass of water. Being mindful can gradually become a habit.

Meditators often feel more serene about life in general and there is a lot of evidence of benefit for people with anxiety, depression and stress, and in reducing the impact of chronic illness. It can often dramatically reduce chronic pain. Mindfulness calms the areas of the brain that produce stress hormones and activates those that lift mood and help with learning. It can train the mind to serve us more effectively, sharpening concentration and focus. Empathy and feelings of relatedness to others are developed by mindfulness practice, and we can enjoy and appreciate our relationships more.

Our culture places a very high value on productivity and performance. We get things done, we live in the ‘doing mode’. Practising mindfulness meditation looks very much like doing nothing and, though it’s a natural state of mind, it may at first be hard not to be ‘doing’.

For some people it immediately feels like ‘coming home’.

Its benefits have been proved beyond reasonable doubt. Shifting from the ‘doing mode’ we most often live in, to the ‘being’ mode of mindfulness is simple but not easy.  It is a skill which can be learned.  We don’t have to strive to learn how to do it, but remembering to be mindful and maintaining it takes practice.

We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hand – and melting like a snowflake…” – Francis Bacon

The mindfulness meditation group meets at Axminster Health and Wellbeing Centre on most Tuesdays from 7.30. to 9.00.pm. to learn and practise mindfulness meditation in an informal, friendly setting. The sessions include guided meditations, silent sitting and time to talk. It’s a drop-in group, and absolute beginners and more experienced meditators are all welcome. There are chairs to sit on, and no special posture is required. There is no charge but donations are welcome.

If you’d like to know more please phone Kath Woods on 01404 831605 or email kath.woods2012@gmail.com .

Other meditation at the Centre:

Buddhist Meditation - Wednesday 7:15-9pm - Contact Alayasri 01297 551547

Osho Active Meditation - Third Sunday of the month 10:30am-12:30pm - Contact Michael Bainbridge  07775521617

Yoga

Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing. The practice originated in India about 5,000 years ago, and has been adapted in other countries in a variety of ways.

Dozens of scientific trials have been published on yoga. Most studies suggest that yoga is a safe and effective way to increase physical activity, especially strength, flexibility and balance. There's also some evidence that regular yoga practice is beneficial for people with high blood pressure, heart disease, aches and pains – including lower back pain – depression and stress.

Yoga is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels and poses very little risk of injury when taught by trained and experienced instructors.

Yoga Classes at the Centre:

Yoga for everyone - Tuesday 5:45pm-7:00pm & Wednesday 2pm-3:15pm - Contact Kath Woods 01404 831605

Yoga Class - Thursday 9:45am-11:15am & 11:30am-12:45pm - Contact Angela Shannon 01297 631943

www.axminsterwellbeing.com

March

The 3rd to the 10th of March is Acupuncture Awareness Week, supported by the British Acupuncture Council. This week-long event aims to dispel some of the common misconceptions regarding acupuncture by informing people of its benefits. Traditional acupuncture forms a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine where the basis for diagnosis and treatments is that the mind and body should be in perfect balance. It originated in China over 2,500 years ago and has become one of the most popular complementary therapies in the UK today.
Many people turn to traditional acupuncture for help with a specific symptom or condition. Others choose to have treatment to help maintain good health, as a preventive measure, or simply to improve their general sense of wellbeing. As traditional acupuncture aims to treat the whole person rather than specific symptoms in isolation, it can be effective for a range of health complaints.

Therapist of The Month

Val Davis B.sc., Lic.Ac., M.B.Ac.C - Acupuncture & Facial Revitalisation

Tel: 01395 578050 / 07870 881596
Web: www.devonacupuncture.org.uk
Email: valdavis@btinternet.co.uk

Val originally trained in Psychiatric Nursing and worked in a large teaching hospital in Sheffield. Following several years of nursing she became interested in medical ethics and philosophy and subsequently went to University and obtained a 2:1 degree in Philosophy and Medical Ethics. At the same time she became interested in complementary therapies as an alternative and gentler way of treating people. She trained in Therapeutic Massage at the College of Holistic Medicine in London and subsequently set up a practice. After only a few years of delivering massage, she developed RSI (repetitive strain injury) and subsequently was treated and cured of this painful condition by Acupuncture.

She then decided that she would train in Acupuncture. She trained at the College of Traditional Acupuncture in Leamington Spa, and subsequently set up a practice in Devon. Val has now been in practice for 20 years, is passionate about her work, and often says “she has the best job in the world!”  She is a member of the British Acupuncture Council.

Talk: A Trip for the Soul

A Trip for the Soul:
Personal Pilgrimage to Peru and Bolivia

Talk by Trudi Morgan, Medicine Wheel Teacher and Shamanic Practitioner

Friday 14th March 7.30pm-9.00pm £3

Trudi, a teacher by profession, started teaching French in comprehensives in Liverpool in the 1970s. She still teaches but a little differently - she teaches the Medicine Wheel. Trudi will be combining her knowledge of the Medicine Wheel and how it can be used to benefit both our personal and professional lives, with her personal experiences while visiting Peru and Bolivia. During this personal pilgrimage, Trudi worked with shamans from the Sacred Valley, spent time studying the uses of herbs and plant medicines, and connected with the beautiful and powerful landscape.

In August 2014 Trudi will be taking a small group to Peru and Bolivia visiting ancient sites and colourful markets, working in ceremony with local shamans, relaxing in open air thermal pools, making personal flower essences, walking, staying on Lake Titicaca and much more. If you would like to be part of this group visit Trudi's  website www.starkeepers.co.uk and get in touch.

February

'We should not have to wait until we are sick to be well' - This is a quote from Diane McLaren one of Canada's top natural health practitioners. It poses some interesting thoughts when exploring the benefits of complementary therapies. Here at the Centre we believe in not just restoring but maintaining health long term. Conventional medicine has made huge progress in the last 100 years and it can be a fantastic tool in restoring health, however it is often used as a solution to a problem rather than to prevent the issue arising in the first place, or repeating itself. We believe by combining an holistic approach to health, alongside conventional medicine, wellbeing throughout the mind, body and spirit can be achieved and sustained throughout our lives.

Therapist Of The Month

Emma Gilmore APNT BCMA IMFT - Sports Injury Massage & Myofascial Release

Tel: 07711656011
Web: http://www.schoolofbodywork.com/therapists/emma-gilmore/
Email: emma@schoolofbodywork.com

Emma is an advanced bodywork therapist with many years of experience who specialises in injury management, chronic disorders and pain relief. Emma’s training in Myofascial Release Therapy & Sports Injury Massage give her the tools to treat the physical and emotional component of an injury at its source, allowing the patient to heal at the deepest level.

Myofascial Release (MFR)- Fascia is a strong connective tissue that runs like a 3D web throughout the body. In healthy patients the fascia is relaxed, providing a cushioning, supportive mechanism, allowing us to move safely without restriction or pain. Physical and emotional trauma, poor posture and surgical procedures all scar and harden fascia in the affected area and along tension lines imposed on it. This causes the fascial network to loose its cushioning mechanism, and internal structures are pulled out of alignment. MFR is an extremely effective therapy in the treatment of chronic injuries, pain and dysfunction. One restriction in the fascial network can lead to another, the job of the therapist is to peel off the layers and get to the root of the problem.

Volunteers Needed!

Our volunteers all have key roles to play in the day to day running of the Centre, they're the heartbeat of the organisation and so we are always grateful for the work they do. We are currently looking for volunteers to help on reception Wednesday mornings, Thursday afternoons and Fridays. If you would be interested in becoming part of this community based charity give the Centre a call on 01297 32331 or just pop in and have a look around.

Cancer Information Cafe

The Cafe is open every Thursday afternoon between 1:30pm and 4pm. It offers people living with or affected by cancer a place to come and gather information and support from our Macmillan trained volunteers and our Macmillan library. The library has a range of books and leaflets containing all the Information you could possibly need. The Cafe also offers refreshments and free WiFi.

Audio Essences talk by Brian Pearsons

Friday March 7th
7:30pm - 9pm
£3

Audio Essences is a revolutionary new process for capturing subtle vibrations on to MP3 files, so that you can receive these vibrations just through the act of listening. In this interactive talk, we will be using Audio Essences to explore how to: Change our feeling state, access states of deep relaxation, visualise and manifest situations and people who align with our core vibration, work with our meridians and chakras to align and balance our own energy system and create healing spaces for other people and our planet.

For information:
www.audioessences.com
info@samarpan-alchemy.co.uk

**Facial Revitalisation Acupuncture**

£10 off treatments throughout February and March
01395 578050
www.facialacupuncture.org.uk

We would like to say a massive THANK YOU to East Devon District Council for their incredibly generous donation of £5000 to the Centre. The donation was given in recognition of the assistance we have given to people in crisis in the local area.






Finally we would like to offer this short quote for you to think about as we move through February. 'Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.'  ~World Health Organisation, 1948

January

Welcome to our blog, we will be posting monthly to keep everyone up to date on what's been happening at the Centre as well as information about the different services and complementary therapies we offer.

The Centre began with a handful of budding volunteers who actively engaged in supporting self-help awareness. They dedicated their time to renovating the building so it could be opened to the public in the mid 1990's, since then the Centre has provided thousands of people with support. A mortgage was taken out on Hanover House in Chard street, Axminster in 1996. The Centre then became an official registered charity in 1997. It was then with the generosity of John Tweed's donation to the charity in 1998 which allowed them to buy the building out right.

The Centre has always had a strong belief in complementary therapies (historically known as alternative therapies). Our team of professional therapists now offer:

• Acupuncture 
• Counselling
• Eastern Face Massage
• Facial Revitalisation
• Healing
• Holistic Massage
• Hypnotherapy
• Indian Head massage
• Lymphatic Drainage Massage
• Myofascial Release
• Nutrition
• Precision Reflexology
• Sports Injury Massage

For more information on therapies visit our website www.axminsterwellbeing.com

All our therapy rooms are available to hire from just £5 for the upstairs rooms and £10 for the John Tweed room. The rooms are all beautifully decorated to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere and centrally located, the building has parking just 100m away.

The Centre runs one of the largest Food Banks in the area offering emergency and referral food parcels to those in need. As well as monetary donations from organisations and individuals the Food Bank relies on donations of food from local people, schools and churches. The support we receive is fantastic and we are very blessed to be part of such a generous community.

The Centre is also part of the nation wide Read Easy scheme. This adult literacy scheme provides adults who can't read or struggle to read with a free tutor and book to help them learn. It is a little known fact that 15% of the working age population in England are at or below the level of literacy expected of an 11 year old, this is a worrying figure and something the scheme hopes to change.

The Centre has recently opened a Cancer Information Cafe which is open every Thursday between 1:30-4pm. The Cafe offers those living with or affected by cancer a place to come and gather any information and support they need. All volunteers have been Macmillan trained and there is also an extensive library of books and leaflets. Free WiFi and refreshments are available.

The Centre also offers talks and workshops details of which will be posted on here in due course. For more information on up coming events or if you would be interested in holding a talk or workshop at the Centre visit our website www.axminsterwellbeing.com

The Centre also has a small library with a range of books available for rent for just 20p.

Finally a quick note to say Happy New Year. As we move into 2014 it's important that each of us take some time to think about what we need to do to take care of our own health and wellbeing. Life is a fantastic gift, but in a world that never sleeps it's never been so important to take a bit of time each day to reconnect with ourselves.

If you would like any more information about the services the Centre offers please visit our website www.axminsterwellbeing.com or phone 01297 32331 or simply pop in and have chat.