My 6 Step Self-Care and Detox

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Today we are talking about self-care and different ways to detox the body as spring begins, from the Chinese New Year perspective. Spring means new beginnings, so it is an ideal time to refresh the body and get it moving.

I wanted to share my self-care routine as I thought it might inspire others to try it and gain the same amazing health benefits that I have gained since starting the routine. I follow this routine to boost my vitality. What I love about Chinese medicine is that simple tools used on the outside of the body also have an amazing effect on healing and detoxing inside the body.

I have experimented with a variety of different tools and techniques over the years, but Chinese Medicine is my go-to these days. For me, I see the greatest benefits and see the best health from these techniques I am about to share with you.

I encourage you all to experiment and find what works best for your health and vitality. Who knows, you might settle on Chinese Medicine too.

I am not a trained medical practitioner. I am an avid follower of Katie Brindle and her Hayou Method techniques and tools. They are great quality, last a lifetime and for me, they really work well.  I did not invest in all my tools at once but built up tools over time. If you find it works for you then I encourage you to do the same. Here is Katie’s Website and that of Hayou Method. Katie has expanded her Hayou Method tools to include other trusted practitioners and their tools, so some of the things I use are from the extended family.

I went to see Katie back in 2018 when suffering from Fibromyalgia, low energy and constant migraines. These days I do not suffer fibromyalgia symptoms, my energy levels are good and migraines are rare. what I am going to share with you about my daily routine is just a fraction of what I learned from her on that day. However, I have been taking better care of myself ever since. this is my morning routine. It takes me just 15 minutes every morning. I’m not fanatical about it, I do not do it religiously every day, but I do it most days. It helps boost my energy, clears my mind and body and sets me up for the rest of the day.

A lot of the routine is about flushing the lymphatic system. Healthy lymph flow is crucial, as it supports the immune and circulatory systems, maintaining fluid balance, fighting infections, and removing toxins and excess fluids from the body.

My Self-Care Routine

Step 1 – Body Combing

I get out of the shower and, while I am still wet, I use the jade comb to body comb from top to toe. It slides along the skin easier and by the time I have finished I am dry. No, I did not take a video of that step. I use body combing to treat cellulite, help with lymphatic drainage and boost circulation around my body. It leaves a tingly, energised feeling on the skin and I am sure it does me loads of good. I definitely feel more sluggish when I don’t do my self-care routine.

If I am out of the house and do not have my jade cob with me then I just tap my body gently. If you are just starting with this routine then you can gently. Just use a relaxed fist and tap over the body. Up and down the arms, over the gest and stomach, down and up the legs and on the lower back over the adrenals. everywhere you can reach.

Step 2 – Brush and Tap

Next, I use a facial brush and the bamboo facial tapper to give my skin a wonderful glow, remove dead skin cells and increase circulation. This is a gentle massage for the skin which enlivens the skin and brings down any puffiness. It prepares my skin for the next steps. It helps release any tight facial muscles and enables lymphatic draining too. What is not to love?

Before I had the facial tapper and brush I just used to do gentle tapping with my fingertips to relax and enliven the skin. You can do the same.

Step 3 – Gua Sha

The Gua Sha stone is the first self-care tool I bought. Apply oil to the skin and then use the gua sha tools. Both the main tool and the precision tool as well. So I have had a lot of practice. The gua sha tools lift, plump and sculpt and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.  I use my tools quite hard on the skin and I am used to seeing a red flush. It goes down really quickly and I feel and look fabulous afterwards. I literally see the wrinkles disappearing. This technique reduces inflammation, increases energy flow and boosts lymphatic drainage and circulation.

Like reflexology, working the face also has an amazing result for the body. As I mentioned in the video, I work particularly deeply into the Gallbladder areas of the face. I had gallstones diagnosed in 2022 and the pain was excruciating. My pain lasted 3 months and then stopped so I declined surgery. However, I do work into the Gallbladder area regularly and I am convinced it helps. Have the gallstones gone? Nope! Many people have gallstones but not everyone has issues. I like to think I am avoiding another painful episode with regular gua sha.

The skin does go red. This is normal and it settles down again very quickly. I can see a difference in my skin by the end of my self-care routine. I work well into my throat and neck as I sit at a desk most days. It helps release any tension I might not even be aware of.

If you can only afford one item then I would recommend starting with gua sha. Just buy one tool and see how you get on. You can add other elements later. I am sure your skin and body will thank you for it.

Step 4 – Cupping

Cupping, an ancient practice from Chinese Medicine, historically used for pain relief and healing, also offers significant benefits for facial rejuvenation. Facial Cupping utilises suction to refresh the skin, promoting lymphatic drainage and energy flow, resulting in tightened and toned skin, improved circulation, reduced inflammation, diminished fine lines and wrinkles, stress relief, collagen stimulation, and a natural glow.

These cups are new additions to my routine, having only bought them a few months ago. I have noticed that, since adding them into my routine, the dry skin I still used to get on my nose has gone. I also used to be prone to block pores on my nose resulting in yellow spots. these have also gone. My skin feels even smoother and looks clearer. So I am very happy with my purchase.  Anything that helps me feel fabulous is worth the effort as far as I am concerned.

This step can be added later. Just remember to build your self-care kit slowly. You do not have to run at 100 miles an hour and buy everything at once.

Step 5 – Remove Excess Oil

I use the Rice Paper Beauty Blotting Tissue as it has a lovely silky feel and it leaves my skin feeling balanced and pampered. I also keep it with me in the summer to blot with if I overheat. you could just use a tissue. It just ensures you do not end up with oil on your clothes.

Step 6 – Cryo Sticks

Cryo sticks are my last self-care step. I have only recently added them to my routine. They have been fabulous the last few days, as I have fought off a cold but seem to have ended up with a couple of days of sinusitis. Being wonderfully cold and soothing, they helped with the sinus headache, and now my sinuses are nearly back to normal.

Cryotherapy soothes puffiness, calms inflammation, and helps achieve a smoother, firmer, and brighter complexion. It is great to cool the last remnants of any redness left over from the Gua Sha, making it the perfect last step. It works by increasing blood flow and oxygen, firming, sculpting, and toning the face instantly. They help drain toxins beneath the skin and shrink large pores with regular use.

You can get the benefits of the coldness by having a bowl of water with ice on hand, then immerse a flannel in the water, and then place it over your face.

Self-Care: Is it all too much of a faff?

You might be thinking that this all seems like a lot to get through every morning. Had I tried to do all of these steps from day one I would have agreed with you. But I have not, I have built up the techniques and the tools over 5 years. This is the key to lasting health benefits and lasting change. just make very small, manageable steps, one at a time. Get competent with that technique. Decide if it works for you. If yes, great, keep doing it and add to the routine. If not, stop doing it and go find something that works for you.

We are all individuals and we are all different so find out what helps energise you, what makes you feel great, and above all what works for you. Then go put a plan in place and take it one small step at a time.

Self-care is a must. A daily routine of self-care can significantly contribute to overall well-being, helping you lead a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling life!

 

 

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Cultivating Self-Compassion: A Gateway to Lasting Wellbeing

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In the current climate, stress has become an inevitable companion for many. I often find myself emphasising the profound impact that self-compassion can have on overall well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of self-compassion and delve into practical exercises to nurture this crucial aspect of self-care.

Understanding Self-Compassion

At its core, self-compassion involves treating ourselves with the same kindness and understanding that we would offer to a friend facing challenges. Dr. Kristin Neff, a pioneering researcher in the field, defines self-compassion as comprising three key elements: self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness.

Self-Kindness:

Embrace the practice of treating yourself with warmth and understanding rather than harsh self-judgment. When faced with setbacks or difficulties, acknowledge your feelings and respond with kindness, just as you would to a dear friend.

Common Humanity

Recognise that suffering and challenges are universal experiences. Understand that everyone encounters obstacles on their journey, and you are not alone in facing difficulties. This sense of shared humanity can alleviate the isolation often felt during tough times.

Mindfulness

Cultivate a non-judgmental awareness of your thoughts and emotions. Mindfulness allows you to observe your inner experience without getting entangled in self-critical narratives. It creates space for self-reflection and fosters a more balanced perspective.

The Importance of Self-Compassion

Research consistently demonstrates that practising self-compassion is associated with improved health, increased emotional resilience, and greater overall well-being. When we approach ourselves with kindness and understanding, we create a supportive inner environment that enables us to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease.

Practical Exercises to Develop Self-Compassion

Comic Strip Therapy:

Create a comic strip starring none other than yourself! Depict your challenges, but add a superhero twist—turn your flaws into superpowers. Embrace the quirks and imperfections, and watch yourself triumph in a burst of self-compassion!

Dance of the Affirmations:

Dance like no one’s watching, but this time, let your body groove to positive affirmations. Make up a funky dance routine incorporating moves that represent self-love. Bonus points for adding a catchy self-compassion anthem to your playlist! Here are some of my favourites:

  • ‘Just Like Fire’ by P!nk
  • “Roar” by Katy Perry
  • “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen
  • ‘Good Vibrations’ by The Beach Boys
  • ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy’ by Bobby McFerrin
  • ‘I’m Still Standing’ by Elton John

DIY Self-Love Potion:

Channel your inner wizard and concoct a DIY self-love potion. Mix ingredients that represent your strengths, achievements, and happy memories. Take a sip whenever you need an instant boost of self-compassion magic! Well OK, maybe a small bucks fizz! For a grown-up non-alcoholic drink I do like the Gin Zero and a little light Fever Tree Tonic.

Mirror Pep Talk Olympics:

Turn mirror pep talks into a sport! Stand in front of the mirror, and with enthusiasm worthy of an Olympic commentator, cheer yourself on for the day’s achievements. Award yourself imaginary medals for self-compassion prowess.

Emoji Emotion Journal:

Express your daily feelings using emojis in a creative emotion journal. Illustrate your self-compassion journey through a visual diary of smileys, hearts, and even the occasional dancing pineapple. It’s like a fun, personalized emoji movie of self-love!

Gratitude Graffiti Wall:

Transform a wall (or a piece of paper) into your gratitude graffiti masterpiece! Write down things you love about yourself, moments of self-compassion, and achievements. Add doodles, colours, and glitter—because self-compassion should sparkle! I’m on a temporary glitter hiatus at the moment though. 40 Christmas cards later, all with glitter. It keeps turning up all over the house. Mind you, it makes the duster sparkle after dusting the rooms!

Karaoke Kindness:

Pick your favourite uplifting song and turn it into a karaoke session. Belt it out with passion, and remember, in this performance, you’re the rockstar of fun-loving self-compassion!

Fantasy Compassion Island:

Close your eyes and imagine your very own Compassion Island. Picture serene beaches of self-love, confidence mountains, and rivers of resilience. Take a mental vacation to this magical place whenever you need a boost of self-compassion.

Remember, self-compassion doesn’t have to be serious—it can be a playful and joyful adventure!

In the journey toward optimal well-being, self-compassion is an invaluable companion. By embracing self-kindness, recognising our shared humanity, and practicing mindfulness, we create a resilient foundation for navigating life’s ups and downs. I encourage you to integrate these exercises into your daily routine and witness the transformative power of self-compassion in enhancing your overall quality of life.

For more hints and tips and also an insight into my daily routine of  Self-Compassion and Lasting Wellbeing, do take a look at my Instagram, where I share some of my routines on video.

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Stress: Friend or Foe

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Is stress a friend or foe?

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of why managing it is not just a luxury but a necessity for your overall well-being. I’ve got some hints and tips that’ll not only inform you but also add a sprinkle of fun to your stress-busting journey.

So, picture this: stress hits, and your body turns into a chemical factory, churning out adrenaline and cortisol. Now this might sound helpful in a crisis, but when these things stick around for too long, trouble brews. Your body starts releasing glucose, prepping you for an escape, but in our modern world, it’s more likely you’re escaping deadlines than trouble.

Now, here’s the kicker – prolonged stress levels can wreak havoc on your body. Your metabolism goes haywire, storing more belly fat and making it a stubborn companion. It’s almost like stress is the unwanted guest that rearranges your furniture and leaves you with extra weight to carry around.

And if that’s not enough, this can also affect your appetite. Suddenly, you’re reaching for fast food and milkshakes instead of a well-balanced meal. It’s a craving carnival, and cortisol is the ringmaster. Or in my case, the chocolate and wine were my nemesis. I don’t do that anymore though.

But wait, there’s more! Stress isn’t just playing havoc with your waistline; it’s also giving your gut a rollercoaster ride. Short-term, it messes with your appetite and slows down digestion, while long-term stress can trigger gastrointestinal dramas like constipation, diarrhea, and indigestion. Talk about a gut-wrenching situation!

And here’s the twist – a stressed-out gut isn’t just about physical discomfort. It can mess with your mind too. Stress and anxiety can trigger gut symptoms, and having a digestive condition can amp up your stress levels. It’s a chicken-and-egg scenario, and neither is particularly enjoyable.

when I was off work with burnout in 2011 I went from fit and healthy to comfort eating. I gained over 3 stone in the process, so I know just how damaging stress can be when left unchecked.

How can I overcome stress?

I’ve got some simple tricks up my sleeve to help you reclaim your Zen. Try diving into a yoga class, embracing mindful meditation, or indulging in some deep breathing exercises. Learn the magical art of saying “no” more often – it’s liberating, trust me.

And don’t underestimate the power of self-care! Whether it’s a 15-minute escape or a luxurious hot bath, find what works for you. It’s not just about beating stress; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that keeps stress at bay.

So, let’s flip the script on stress, have some fun along the way, and reclaim control over our bodies and minds. You’ve got this!

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Achieving Peak Performance through Sleep

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In the hustle and bustle of the modern world, sleep is often the first casualty of our busy lives. Stressed professionals, in particular, frequently find themselves sacrificing sleep in favor of work, meetings, and endless to-do lists. However, this relentless pursuit of productivity often comes at a steep cost. Quality sleep is not just a luxury; it’s a non-negotiable component of optimal performance and well-being. In this blog, we will explore the importance of quality sleep and offer practical tips on creating a sleep-friendly environment. As a professional coach, my aim is to help you reclaim your sleep and, in turn, your vitality, focus, and overall success.

Lack of sleep has the same symptoms and feelings as being very drunk. Not just tiredness but also the inability of the brain to function properly. Almost like a brain fog. After prolonged bouts of bad sleep the body also starts to feel achy and tired.  All in all, a very bad place to be.

The Importance of Quality Sleep

Enhanced Cognitive Function

Sleep is when our brain processes and consolidates information acquired throughout the day. It is the ultimate cognitive reset button. A well-rested mind is more alert, creative, and able to make sound decisions.

Improved Emotional Resilience

A good night’s sleep equips you with the emotional resilience to handle stress and challenging situations. Without it, stress can become overwhelming, leading to burnout.

Physical Health Benefits

Sleep is vital for physical health. It aids in the repair and regeneration of cells, enhances immune function, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Lack of sleep is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

Increased Productivity

Contrary to the popular belief that sacrificing sleep leads to higher productivity, consistent, high-quality sleep boosts productivity and efficiency. You’ll be amazed at how much more you can accomplish with a rested mind.

Creating a Sleep-Friendly Environment

Establish a Consistent Sleep ScheduleWoman sleeping comfortably

Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Consistency helps regulate your body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.

Optimize Your Bedroom

Your bedroom should be a sanctuary for resting. Ensure your room is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Invest in a good quality mattress and pillows to provide optimal comfort and support. Make sure your pillow gives adequate neck support for the position you lie in most often.

Limit Exposure to Screens

The blue light emitted by smartphones, tablets, and computers can disrupt your circadian rhythm. Aim to avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime. I also advise against having a TV in the bedroom. The temptation to watch it while falling asleep is too great. Watching TV before sleeping can also affect your sleep quality. It is one of the things we changed when we moved. No TV in the bedroom.

Watch Your Diet

Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime. These substances can interfere with your quality of rest. I find that alcohol in particular is very dehydrating so I do not sleep as well if I have had alcohol in the evening. I do drink lots of water but I can still feel the subtle difference. Also women in menopause, if you are like me, the alcohol will lead to hormone imbalance and make any hot flushes worse when you go to be, so a double reason to limit alcohol. Everything in moderation.

Develop a Relaxing Pre-Bedtime Routine

Engage in calming activities before bedtime, such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practising mindfulness or meditation. These activities signal to your body that it’s time to wind down. A foot soak with some Epson Salts is also great for relaxing and helps rebalance the body. All you need is a bowl, some warm water and some Epson Salts, which you can get in any supermarket. It is a great way to wind down. You can even listen to music or read at the same time.

Manage Stress

Stress can keep you up at night, so it’s crucial to manage it effectively. Engage in stress-reduction techniques, such as yoga, deep breathing, or journaling, to ease your mind before sleep. Journalling is particularly good as it gives the brain the opportunity to download everything you are thinking or worrying about. It allows the brain to release all those thoughts. It is also a great creative pursuit.

Get Regular Exercise

Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality. However, avoid intense exercise close to bedtime, as it may energize you and make it harder to fall asleep. An early morning walk is particularly good for resetting your body clock and helping you sleep at night. HAve a listen to Michale Mosley’s just one thing on BBC for more info. Early Morning Walk

As a professional coach, I understand the immense pressure and demands on your shoulders. But sacrificing sleep is not the solution. Lack of sleep can exacerbate the challenges you face. To perform at your best, you need quality sleep. By implementing these sleep hygiene tips and creating a sleep-friendly environment, you can take a significant step towards improving your overall well-being and professional success. Prioritise your sleep, and watch as your vitality, focus, and resilience soar to new heights. Remember, in the pursuit of success, quality sleep is amost valuable asset.

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My Zoe Journey

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Nourishing Body and Mind with Zoe

Embarking on a journey toward better health and nutrition is a personal and transformative experience. My path took a significant turn when I discovered the Zoe Program. A comprehensive approach to understanding and optimising my body’s needs. I’ll share how this programme has become an essential part of my wellness journey, offering unique insights into my body’s dynamics and fostering a deeper connection between nutrition and overall well-being. I will do periodic updates to share what is happening, as I embark on this year-long journey to discover better health.

Understanding My Body:

The Zoe Programme is not a diet plan; it’s a personalised roadmap to better health. The programme leverages cutting-edge research in microbiome science, genetics, and nutritional analysis to provide a tailored approach to individual needs. By examining my unique biological markers, Zoe revealed a wealth of information about how my body processes different foods, allowing me to make informed choices that resonate with my physiology.

Personalised Nutrition:

One of the standout features of Zoe is its commitment to personalisation. The program doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions; instead, it recognises the diversity in our bodies’ responses to various foods. Armed with insights from my gut microbiome and my body’s ability to process sugar and fat, Zoe created a plan specifically designed to optimise my energy levels, support my fitness goals, and address any potential dietary needs.

My sugar score was better than I expected, while still a score of poor I expected it to be worse than it was.. However, my microbiome score is bad. My blood fat control is also poor. My diet assessment is also poor. Not enough fibre and not enough plant diversity. A little too much fat and too much meat that does not lead to better gut health. Now remember these are the scores for my body only and are not advice for anyone else in any way, shape or form.

Gut Health and Well-Being:

Zoe places a strong emphasis on the role of gut health in overall well-being. Through the programme, I am gaining a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between my gut microbiome and various aspects of health, from digestion to immune function. The personalized recommendations not only improved my digestive comfort but also positively impacted my mood and energy levels, demonstrating the interconnectedness of gut health and holistic well-being. I am also implementing the information further by listening to the Zoe podcasts when I am at the gym. It is helping me to deepen my understanding and look at many different aspects of health.

Educational Empowerment:

What sets Zoe apart is its commitment to education. The program doesn’t just provide a set of rules to follow; it equips participants with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their nutrition. From deciphering food labels to understanding the science behind dietary recommendations, Zoe empowers individuals to take control of their health journey, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-discovery.

Why I Started this Journey

In 2011 I was diagnosed with burn-out and was signed off work for six months. On returning to work I was so tired all the time and my brain felt like it was full of cotton wool. I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia.  Here is where my resilience journey started. Healing myself and learning to manage stress. Changing my mindset to be positive and supportive. My weight slowly went up though and I struggled to lose it. Several diets later, I discovered Zoe and decided that, like all things, sustainable change comes not from a quick fix, but from a different approach. This started with the 2 week Zoe tests. A glucose monitor and tests were sent to the lab for gut microbiome and blood fat responses. It was comprehensive.

I have all the results and now start the journey of changing the way I eat and how I view food. This morning I had a wonderful nutritionally balanced brunch of almond pancakes and stewed apples.

Challenges

I am in the habit of eating quite a lot of meat, which, for my body, is not so great. I am transitioning slowly to more beans and pulses. But I am also balancing cooking for my husband too, and taking into consideration his food preferences. It is not always plain sailing, but it is a learning process.

Conclusion:

My Zoe journey has been a revelation. Unveiling a personalized approach to nutrition and health that extends far beyond conventional dieting. By harnessing the power of science and technology, the programme has empowered me to make choices that align with my body’s unique needs. Leading to improved well-being and a renewed sense of vitality. If you’re ready to embark on a transformative journey toward better health, Zoe might just be the personalised guide you’ve been searching for too.

Check back for future blogs to see how I am getting on.

For more information on Zoe click here. Or for their block click here. Even if the full programme is not for you, the website contains a wealth of useful data.

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Why I love Gardening

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Starting a new garden from scratch

Gardening is a fun and rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s a great way to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, and it can also be a therapeutic activity that helps reduce stress and promote relaxation.

When we moved into our new house last year, I had no idea I would end up completely redesigning the garden. That was certainly not my plan. But it sort of evolved from changing a few things to doing a complete redesign. It was a daunting task but has bought me so much joy to see the plans all come together. There is still a lot to do, but it is a project that will continue to evolve over the next few years. Of course, any gardener knows, you are never ever really finished anyway, there is always something new to try.

Gardening also has many practical benefits, such as providing fresh produce for your family or beautifying your home. I did have an allotment when I lived in London because the garden was so small. Now I hope to be able to combine beauty, a lovely outdoor space for entertaining, and a space for fresh produce too. It won’t have rectangular beds with produce in military rows though, but more an idea I picked up from watching Alys Fowler from Gardeners World. The idea is that vegetables and herbs can be beautiful too. A little bit of creative companion planting can work wonders.

I am delighted to say that the front garden is completed, except for regular maintenance. We have the most beautiful scented roses growing over the front of the house. some wisteria too. Spring and summer are an absolute joy!

If you have never gardened before

If you’re thinking about starting a garden, there are a few things to keep in mind.

  • First, you’ll need to choose a location that gets plenty of sunlight and has good drainage.
  • Then, you’ll need to select the right plants for your climate and soil type.
  • Once you’ve got your garden started, be sure to water it regularly and keep an eye out for pests or diseases.
  • With a little care and attention, your garden will soon be thriving!

Small Spaces

If you only have a small space then never fear. A few well-placed window pots or some pots dotted around to add colour and variety can be fabulous. Here are a couple of books that inspired me when I had a tiny garden. If you have a larger space then all the better.

Vegetables in a Small Garden: Simple Steps to Success

The Small Garden

Where to find inspiration and help

One of the biggest challenges can be knowing where to start so a couple of good books to help you along and give you some ideas can be terrific. Visiting some of the RHS gardens, if you have one near you, can be a great way to get inspiration, as well as great help and advice. They run short courses now too. This summer I attended one because I want to create a flower bed in the back garden. I wanted to know a bit more about planting borders. I thought I wanted to create a cottage garden, but I learned that the type of planting I like is actually called a herbaceous border. Good to know! It is still in the design phase, but that is the thing with gardening. There is no rush and if you try it and it does not work you can change it.

So why do I love gardening?

Well, for starters, it’s a great way to get some fresh air. And who doesn’t love breathing in the sweet, earthy aroma of fresh plants? Plus, gardening is also a great way to get your hands dirty – and who doesn’t love that? Plus, there’s just something satisfying about seeing your hard work pay off in beautiful flowers, herbs and vegetables.

It is great for exercise. Gardening can be a challenging and physically demanding activity, but it sure is worth it when you see the results in a healthy garden. Knowing that it was all your own work is very rewarding.

Gardening is great for your mental health. Gardening can be a solitary activity, but it can also be a rewarding experience when you share your garden with other people. I can get lost in the moment when I am in the garden.

It is a fantastic way to express creativity and individuality. Gardening is a great way to show off your unique flair and create something beautiful from scratch. There is something about seeing a garden that was created with love and care that just makes my heart happy.

So, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned gardener, I encourage you to give gardening a try! You will not be disappointed.

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Pain Relief Secrets

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How I managed to get rid of my lower back pain – forever!

A few years back I had been suffering from lower back pain for a couple of months. I went to my usual “Goto” fixes. The osteopath and the shiatsu practitioner. Nothing seemed to do anything more than give relief for a couple of days and then it was back. Just as bad as it had been before. I was desperate. I started searching google for some alternatives.

Why pain can be such a pain!

Pain is one of the most universal human experiences, yet it is also one of the most difficult to define and understand. Pain is often described as a feeling of discomfort or suffering. It is a complex sensation that is both physical and emotional, and it can be difficult to pinpoint its exact cause. There are many different types of pain, from the sharp, stabbing pain of a paper cut to the dull, aching pain of a headache. Pain can be short-lived or chronic, and it can be mild or severe. No matter what form it takes, pain is always unpleasant and can be a great source of distress. Causing you to feel stress! It is so hard to concentrate when you are in pain. It impacts every part of your life, not just the physical.

The secret to success

I started searching google for some alternatives. That is when I came across Somatic Movement. I just started with an online training course. I learned how the muscles travel through the body and cause pain in completely different places from where the main muscles are located. Bingo – I had my back problem culprit – the psoas muscles. It is a bit of a tricky muscle to reach. If it is tight through the hips then it can cause ridiculous amounts of pain in the lower back that can be quite incapacitating. It can be stretched but that is not usually a very lasting solution. The psoas movement in somatics is really easy to learn though and can give instant relief.

It was so life changing I qualified as a teacher of somatic movement. My back has never been better and has taken my self care to a whole new level.

Does this sound like a familiar tale to you? Do you suffer from lower back ache that never seems to resolve? Well if you would like to learn the secret of the psoas muscle release I am offering a discount until the end of august on all sessions. Take a look at our social media posts to pick up my special offer.

 

 

 

 

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