Holistic Scotland Magazine Spring 2020

SPRING 2020

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FREE

EMBRACE SPRING WITH EVERYTHING YOU’VE GOT!

Blitz every area of your life LIFTING THE LID ON FIBROMYALGIA Simple health hacks that can really make a difference

KEEPING IT CLEAN Best natural beauty buys

HOLISTIC SCOTLAND MAGAZINE WELLBEING AWARDS

Win a foraging

experience

Wild meditation Ain’t no mountain high enough for gemstone forager Tony Jackson

Outdoors in Argyll Wellness in the West Highlands

Meet our finalists and sponsors

INSIDE

DISCOVER A WHOLE NEW HOLISTIC CAREER BANISH NEGATIVE S P R I N G 2 0THOUGHTS 2 0 | H O L I S T FOR I C S CGOOD OTLAND BETTER THE DEVIL YOU KNOW? TAP VS BOTTLED WATER

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NEW

ALLICIN MA X

IMMUNE with Vitamin C and Zinc for the normal functioning of the immune system

A brand new vegan-friendly immune formula.

A unique combination of stabilised allicin and beta glucan, with vitamin C and zinc.

Find AllicinMax Immune in your local health food shop. To find your local stockist or for more information, please call our helpline number 0345 241 0505 www.allicin.co.uk Follow us on Twitter @Allicin_Max Facebook facebook.com/AllicinInternational Food supplements should not replace a healthy balanced diet.

FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to the Spring 2020 issue.

And please remember that nature isn’t closed. Spending time outdoors - even if just in the garden - is one of the best remedies we have available to us.

We will all feel isolated from time to time, but you don’t have to feel alone.

Since our last issue, the world has changed dramatically for us all.

Sadly, we have all had to take drastic measures such as closing our studios, salons and practises to protect ourselves and the wider community from the COVID-19 pandemic we are now facing.

Events, retreats and gatherings up and down the country have been postponed or cancelled, including the Holistic Scotland Magazine Wellbeing Awards, which will now take place on Sunday, 20 September 2020.

Schools, colleges and universities have closed for the foreseeable future and many of us are now working from home.

A dystopian film-like curfew has been placed upon us all and it can be difficult to keep up morale when we are restricted socially and financially.

But we can and will get through this. As a community, we will come out the other side wiser and stronger.

In the meantime, it’s never been more important to take care of our own health and wellbeing – both mentally and physically. We hope you’ll find lots of hints and tips inside this latest issue to do exactly that.

HolisticScotMagazine

Please keep an eye on our website and social media, where we’ll be sharing lots of ways to stay connected with the wider world, along with health news, daily boredom busters, wellbeing tips, and exercises for maintaining calm when the monotony threatens to drive us all up the wall.

You will only be able to pick up physical copies of Holistic Scotland Magazine from a small number of independent health stores, which will stay open as a priority, from now on.

We have popped a list of these stockists on our website, but if there isn’t one near you, you can still subscribe (if you haven’t already) to have the magazine delivered directly to your door.

To help ease us through these uncertain times, we have cut the cost of our subscriptions to just £6 for the whole year.

Alternatively, you can register via our website to receive a free digital copy to your inbox every quarter. Just go to www.holisticscotland.com to sign up.

Wishing you a healthy Spring.

Lynda Hamilton Parker Publishing Editor

HolisticScotMag

HolisticScotlandMag

www.holisticscotland.com SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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This Issue…

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Green cleaning

16 24

18

Coping with fibromyalgia

Saying ‘no’ to negativity

Allergy relief with Ask Ali

Contributors

Karen Gider, Natural beauty ambassador & founder of Face Yoga Scotland

Marie O’Neill, Counsellor, coach & interfaith celebrant

Ali Cullen, Nutritional therapist

Julian Daizen Skinner, Meditation & wellness author

Ronnie McCluskey, Natural health writer

Tony Jackson, Author

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SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

Alison Demarco, Psychic consultant & author

21 Laid back lagom 26 Remote working tips 36 Kitchen table start-ups 44 Colour card readings

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46 Your anxiety toolkit

Time for a career change?

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46

Natural skincare

60 Wellness in the West Highlands

Ain’t no mountain high enough

Holistic Scotland Magazine: www.holisticscotland.com Email: contact@holisticscot.com / advertising@holisticscot.com Facebook: facebook.com/HolisticScotMagazine Twitter: twitter.com/HolisticScotMag Instagram: Instagram.com/holisticscotlandmag

Published by Lynda Hamilton Communications, 14 West Vows Walk, Kirkcaldy, Fife KY1 1RX Publishing Editor: Lynda Hamilton Parker Design & Production: Winterhouse Design www.winterhouse.net Print & Distribution: Think Solutions Ltd Next issue: Summer 2020

DISCLAIMER: The views within this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. Articles and advertisements are for information only and are not intended to replace medical care. Always check with your GP before embarking on any new nutritional or fitness programmes and before trying any of the remedies featured in this magazine. Always seek medical advice if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or taking any medication before following any advice featured in this magazine. Although the publisher has made every effort to include and recommend products and services which contain natural ingredients, are sustainably packaged and crueltyfree, please note it is not always possible to tick every box. Always visit the product website to check the ingredients and nature of its packaging, along with its cruelty-free credentials.

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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YOU R H E A LT H

COVID-19

STAY AT HOME Do you know how the virus originated, who’s at risk, and most importantly, what you can do to prevent getting sick? Health expert Joie Risk of Sunlighten saunas explains everything you need to know…

A

ccording to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the 2019 novel coronavirus outbreak was first identified in Wuhan, China, and linked to a live animal market. The official name of the disease is coronavirus disease 2019, abbreviated as COVID-19. In COVID-19, “CO” stands for corona, “VI” for virus, and “D” for disease.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. COVID-19 is a new disease not previously seen in humans, and one of many types of human coronaviruses, including some that commonly cause mild upper-respiratory tract illnesses.

Rarely do coronaviruses that began in animals spread to people. This is suspected to have occurred for the virus that causes COVID-19. Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) are two other examples of coronaviruses that originated in animals and then spread to people.

Because COVID-19 is a new virus, not a lot is known about how it’s spread or who it’s most likely to make sick, though some trends are occurring.

• COVID-19 appears to be spreading from personto-person between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet), and through respiratory droplets produced when someone infected with the virus coughs or sneezes.

• Scientists think people are most contagious when they are the sickest (running a fever, coughing or sneezing).

It also may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

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SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

GERM DEFENCE A new website has launched in the UK to help reduce the spread of viral respiratory tract infections, such as colds and flu.

The team behind the Germ Defence website say that coronavirus is caught in the same way as these other viruses, which means that the methods featured on the website may be able to protect people from COVID-19.

Germ Defence has been designed so that anyone can use and benefit from information and ideas on how to lower their risk of catching viral illnesses.

It also gives advice on how to look after family and friends who are ill, and still protect yourself.

Go to germdefence.org

Prevention is better than cure Currently, there is no vaccine to prevent COVID-19. Health experts say the best way to prevent the illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus, but that can be difficult in a busy, busy world. The CDC recommends the following to prevent the illness:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• When greeting someone, don’t shake hands or hug.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if they are visibly dirty.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Stay home when you are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the bin.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

General immune system health is also very important in warding off the COVID-19 virus, as well as seasonal colds and flu.

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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COVID-19 STAY AT HOME

5

WAYS TO STRENGTHEN YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

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Lower Stress

2

Get Some Shut-Eye

3

Eat Well

4

Supplement Your Diet

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Regular Infrared Sauna Use

News reports of the COVID-19 virus are stressful for everyone but reducing your stress can lower your risk for illness and improve the immune system’s ability to fight off infections.

KNOW THE SYMPTOMS In most cases, symptoms appear 2-14 days after exposure and include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Some people may only experience mild symptoms, while others, especially older adults or persons with compromised immune systems may need hospital treatment.

Anyone experiencing symptoms should isolate themselves from others to avoid infecting anyone else.

If your symptoms worsen, seek medical help by calling 111, but be sure to alert the medical team of symptoms and the possibility that you’ve been infected. If you have a face mask, be sure to wear it to help prevent the spread of the virus.

For more articles on COVID-19, visit www.holisticscotland.com 8

Get plenty of sleep. When you don’t get enough sleep or the sleep you do get is of poor quality, your immune system is weakened.

A healthy diet is one of your best defenses against illness. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, healthy fats (such as olive oil), and water and green tea.

While a healthy diet usually provides all the necessary immuneboosting vitamins and minerals your body needs, certain health conditions can hinder the body’s ability to fully absorb these nutrients.

Infrared therapy stimulates the circulatory system, causing the heart to beat more vigorously and blood vessels to dilate, which help cleanse the circulatory system and more fully oxygenate the body’s cells. Better blood circulation means more toxins flow from the cellular level to the skin’s surface to improve cell health, aid in muscle recovery and strengthen the immune system by raising core body temperature.

While there is no treatment for COVID-19, avoiding people who are sick, washing your hands, trying to not touch your face and keeping your immune system in peak condition are some of the best ways to stay healthy.

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

H E A LT H

Your local health expert talks…

GERM WARFARE! Nutritionist and homeopath Rebecca Rychlik-Cunning, who is working with Perthshire-based Water for Health shares her top tips to avoid getting ill from harmful bacteria

B

acteria are so minuscule you can only see them under a microscope. They come in all different types, shapes and sizes and are single-cell organisms that can multiply on their own. They live virtually everywhere on, in and around us. You can find them in soil, water, and air. They live all over our skin, and inside the nose, mouth, throat, digestive tract, and vagina.

How can you tell bacteria from a virus?

Bacteria is not the same as a virus, but they often get confused. Microbes cause both viral and bacterial infection and they can be transmitted in the same way: coughing, sneezing, touching, kissing, sex, and through contact with bodily fluids, faeces, infected animals and creatures and contaminated objects.

Bacterial and viral infections can also share similar symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, diarrhoea, fatigue, fever, inflammation, vomiting. Some illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis or diarrhoea can be either bacterial or viral, and it can be hard to determine the cause. The only way to know for sure is through blood or fluid testing by your GP. Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, but with antibiotic resistance becoming more prevalent, they should only be used when necessary.

Here are 6 natural ways to protect yourself: 1) WASH YOUR HANDS Hand washing is such a simple and effective way to ward off harmful bacteria. Always wash them with plenty of soap and water, then sing ‘Happy Birthday’ (out loud or in your head – you choose) if you’d rather, count to 20.

Make sure you get in-between all your fingers and thumbs and give your palms and the back of your hands a good clean too.

Always carry hand sanitiser just in case you can’t get to some soap and a sink. There are plenty of natural ones on the market which are non-toxic without harsh chemicals.

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SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

2) PROTECT OTHERS Always cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.

If you’re ill, share items minimally and avoid contact with others as much as possible. Remember to clean surfaces you’re often touching.

3) STRENGTHEN YOUR IMMUNITY Eat well (a diverse array fresh fruits and vegetables, whole foods and whole grains, healthy proteins and fats and complex carbs, plenty of fibre and lots of herbs and spices).

Exercise regularly, effectively manage any stress and anxiety, get enough sleep, spend time in nature, and with friends and loved ones. Remember to laugh and have fun!

4) GUT HEALTH AND PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTATION A healthy gut is pivotal for your health and wellbeing, with over 70% of your immune system residing all along your digestive tract. Balanced gut microbiome protects you from infection, full stop.

Poor gut integrity can lead to a prevalence of bad bacteria, leaving you more susceptible to gastrointestinal disturbance, bacterial, viral and fungal infection.

According to the BMJ, there is substantial evidence to support the role of probiotic supplementation in the prevention of diarrhoea, necrotising enterocolitis, acute upper respiratory tract infections, and pulmonary exacerbations in children with cystic fibrosis. Bacteria play a role in all of these.

Remember!

Not all bacteria are bad.

Good gut bacteria protect your digestive tract from invading pathogens, and a proliferation of bad bacteria.

They help to repair damaged tissue in your gut lining, destroy disease-causing microbes and aid nutrient absorption. Good bacteria may help to speed up the healing of external wounds.

Find out more, including products which could help to boost your natural immunity, at www.water-for-health.co.uk

5) TAKE BACTERIAL DEFENSE Bacterial Defense is a plant-based supplement that may help to protect against harmful bacteria by supporting a healthy balance of the bacteria that live both internally in your body and externally on your skin.

It combines ingredients used in both Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine using specific plant extracts with significant anti-microbial properties.

6) TAKE IMMUNE DEFENSE Immune Defense by Vibrant Health integrates immuneboosting components to protect against potential infections, pathogens, toxins and illnesses.

It’s the first natural product to deliver such a high number of immunoglobulins (immune cells the digestive tract produces naturally and your first line of defence to the 80% of disease-causing microbes that enter your body through mucosal tissue).

Available from www.water-for-health.co.uk SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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H E A LT H

What’s new?

The latest natural remedies, supplements and breakthrough treatments

Pure Magnesium Bath Flakes BetterYou’s new Magnesium Flakes can be added to your bath to help soothe tired and aching muscles. Suitable for both baths and footbaths, the pack contains magnesium that’s been naturally purified over the last 250 million years to eliminate man-made pollutants and heavy metals. It’s thought that magnesium is responsible for 325 chemical reactions inside the body and helps support calcium absorption, bone and teeth health, normal psychological function and a healthy immune system. According to BetterYou, magnesium also helps to improve rest and recovery by reducing tiredness and fatigue, balancing electrolytes and supporting normal energy-yielding metabolism. Find out more about transdermal magnesium supplementation at betteryou.com

BumbleZest Drinks – now in cans!

BumbleZest Drinks’ new slender 250ml cans each contain up to eight functional ingredients to help give you a healthy boost on-the-go. With flavours such as Ginger, CBD & Turmeric; Yerba Mate Matcha Green Coffee, and Rosemary, Thyme & Lavender, they not only do good, but they taste good too. They are all natural and available in more than 650 delis, coffee shops, whole food and health stores, farm shops, food halls and fitness centres throughout the UK, as well as available to order online for delivery to almost anywhere in the world. They’re so good, you might want to check out their healthy shots too! Bumblezest.co.uk

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SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

What’s new? CBD ROUND-UP

Cannabigold Terpenes+

CBDDIRECT2U

Terpenes+ is the latest CBD product from CannabiGold.

Formulated with a unique combination of beneficial ingredients, including CBD and terpenes found naturally in hemp, this food supplement is designed to support the body’s endocannabinoid system and maintain overall wellbeing. “By adding terpenes to the formula, it makes CBD oil more targeted and therapeutically beneficial, enhancing emotional states such as calm and relief,” says nutritionist Alix Woods.

Visit cannibigold.co.uk

DragonflyCBD for anxiety DragonflyCBD creates high-quality CBD oil food supplements to help support people through times of stress, anxiety, pain and sleep disorders. The brand says lab studies suggest CBD can have anti-anxiety effects and may help to regulate learned fear. It’s also thought to have beneficial effects on the emotions. dragonflycbd.com

New!

Developed by a GP and entrepreneur, CBDDIRECT2U’s range of premium CBD products include 4% and 10% strength pure oils, which are all made in the UK using a luxury MCT (medium chain triglyceride) coconut oil for maximum flavour and a broad-spectrum hemp extract oil with naturally occurring CBD. The range comes in seven different tantalising flavours, such as Pure Chocolate, Mixed Berry and Lavender, and can be delivered direct to your door. cbddirect2u.co.uk

CBD boost in a can Stay focused and centred while working from home with CBD brand AVER’s new BOOST and CALM drinks, which contain the highest CBD concentration of all CBD drinks currently available in the UK. They combine CBD with functional ingredients, such as ginger and lemon, and adaptogens to help give you a little lift. averlondon.com

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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FAV O U R I T E T H I N G S

A few of our favourite green cleaning tips Spring is a great time to… declutter!

According to the Plastic Box Shop, mess and clutter can seriously interfere with our mental health and overall happiness: • It increases our cortisol levels which can lead to stress, anxiety and long-term mental health problems • It triggers subconscious coping and avoidance strategies which make us crave unhealthy comfort food lots of ng • It can be a visual distraction that can overload or drain ia has abant and recycli se r B e our cognitive resources, affecting our memories torage out th great s ns. Check uch bins – io o • It can affect how our bodies fight illness, so we’re t T solu o and Bo g aratin G more likely to get viruses, diabetes and heart disease Sort & rfect for sepAvailable pe ng.

• It affects sleep quality and ability to fall sleep, which ecycli .com your r brabantia m can decrease our focus, energy levels, and mood. fro

Get itd! sorte

Download your free 6-week home decluttering plan at www.holisticscotland.com

Steam clean the kitchen!

Being one of the busiest rooms in the house, dirt and grime can build up in the kitchen making it a never-ending task to keep it spick and span. Taking time to steam clean will help you get deep into places which wipes and sprays cannot reach.

Steam mops can remove 99% of bacteria, using only tap water: no need for any chemicals or detergents. For heavy-duty sessions, Hoover’s Steam Capsule 2IN1 cleaner has been designed with a double floor nozzle, combining a rectangular mop with a triangle scrubbing head to remove stubborn grease and grime. Steam Capsule easily converts from mop to handheld, plus it comes with a hose and accessories so you can use it all over the house.

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Home heroes Nimble Sticky Stopper From £2.99 www.nimblebabies.com

Nimble Laundry Lover From £2.99 www.nimblebabies.com

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

Protect your home and family with the power of essential oils Revolutionise the way you clean your home with Young Living’s new plant-based Thieves range of cleaning products. Its essential oil blend was originally inspired by the legend of four 15th-century French thieves who formulated a special aromatic combination of clove, rosemary and other botanicals to protect themselves while robbing plague victims. The range, which features lemon, clove, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus radiata and rosemary essential oils, includes washing up liquid, laundry soap, hand soap and more You can even create custom cleaners for the surfaces of your home with just one bottle – all formulated without fluoride, SLS, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, synthetic perfumes or dyes, artificial colours, flavours, preservatives or toxic ingredients. Shop the range at youngliving.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? The average British user receives 2,850 promotional emails – equating to an average of 28.5 kilos of CO2 per year, or enough to power a lightbulb for 137 days.

That’s according to Cleanfox, which has developed a free, tech-for-good app which securely, smartly and quickly cleans out your inbox from unwanted, unnecessary emails - reducing your carbon footprint by fighting digital pollution which uses unnecessary electricity.

How it works • Cleanfox automatically creates a list of emails by securely scanning them, looking at: Open rate, number of emails received, carbon footprint • You’re then free to delete and/or unsubscribe by swiping left or right (a bit like a dating app!) and it learns what to look out for in future for you • Once you’ve cleaned up your inbox, Cleanfox gives you access to your custom statistics where you’re able to measure your impact on your inbox and the environment too A Cleanfox user is said to remove an average of 1,000 unwanted emails a year. That’s 10KG of CO2, or enough to power a lightbulb for 49 days.

Download the app at cleanfox.io – available for iPhone and Android.

For more green Spring cleaning tips, visit our News and Features page at www.holisticscotland.com SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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H E A LT H

Coping with fibromyalgia naturally

We can treat fibromyalgia naturally by looking at what we eat and how we medicate, writes holistic coach and author Alex Olabarria, whose promising West End dance career has suffered because of the condition.

1. Take your vitamins A lot of people lack Vitamin D and B12 which can cause lethargy and restlessness. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential vitamin that your body needs but cannot produce.

It has many roles in your body, such as supporting the normal function of your nerve cells and is needed for red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis.

2. Consider anti-inflammatories, such as the humble cabbage!

Cabbage leaf has been used for centuries for swelling, ulcers, sprains, and strains, while cabbage contains essential phytonutrients, Did you know? anthocyanins (an antioxidant) Fibromyalgia is a chronic and glutamine (an amino acid) - all condition that causes of which have anti-inflammatory widespread pain and properties. Try a cabbage leaf compress fatigue. It can range from mild to severe and can overnight as an alternative to medication. affect people’s day to day Savoy cabbages work best!

3. Try the blood group diet There is often a correlation between blood type and diet.

People with Type O tend to do better with good quality meats such as grass-fed beef and low grains while those with Type A people have an easy time being vegetarian.

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lives.

Symptoms can also include IBS, allergies, headaches/ migraines, confusion and sensitivity to your surroundings.

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

Joint friends

Phynova Joint and Muscle Relief Tablets

Celafen™ Muscle & Joint Rub This 30-minute drug-free pain relief for joints is said to work 15% faster than conventional painkillers and has been reported to help ease the pain of fibromyalgia.

Theskinshop.co.uk

Phynova’s Joint and Muscle Relief is the UK’s only proven plantpowered pain management remedy to contain Sigesbeckia - a plant which has a long history of use in Oriental Medicine to relieve symptoms of all forms of musculoskeletal pains.

Phynovajointrelief.com

The blood type diet doesn’t work for everyone (no diet does!) but it does help explain how some people swear up and down about Keto and others prefer being vegan.

Finding what foods you are specifically sensitive to can help determine what your body can’t process and could be creating symptoms throughout the body as well as exasperate food allergies.

4. Stretch it out and feel the heat!

Massage, heat and stretching feel great because they release muscle spasms.

When using any of these techniques for relief, it is important to counteract any loosening adding in some strengthening exercises afterwards.

Try standing in a hot shower and allowing all of your muscles to relax, then turning the water as cold as you can tolerate for the last 30 seconds to a minute of your shower, icing after

Frunutta Sublingual Vitamin D3 Support and maintain normal bone and muscle function, as well as your immune system, teeth and calcium levels, with a good vitamin D3 supplement.

Frunutta’s sublingual supplement disperses under the tongue, therefore bypassing the stomach and entering the bloodstream more quickly.

Water-for-health.co.uk

heating, or incorporating ice massage.

5. Do some yoga Through breathing exercises and chanting, yoga stimulates and tones the vagus nerve and digest mode of existence — so the more we do things that “stimulate” or activate it, the more we can get rid of the effects of the sympathetic nervous system.

When in rest & digest, our bodies can channel our nutrients from food, the air we breathe to our vital organs, to boost immunity and heal us from within.

6. Go back to basics Keep a healthy and balanced diet, avoid alcohol and smoking, exercise regularly and cut down on caffeine. Rest and listen to your body. Simple but effective!

Look out for Alex’s book Everyone Has a Chronic Condition… It’s Called LIFE! coming soon.

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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H E A LT H

Ask Ali A.Vogel Nutritional Therapist Ali Cullen answers your questions on allergies

Q.

Why are my hayfever symptoms worse at night? I thought they would be better when I’m not in any contact with pollen.

A.

You’re right, it sounds strange to get symptoms once you’re in the safety of your bedroom.

There are some possible reasons, though.

Our breathing levels slow down through the night, as we enter deeper sleep stages.

This means our lungs won’t be clearing airborne matter quite as effectively. Your bedroom, however seemingly clean, may contain hidden dust, mould, or mites in bedding, mattresses and pillows, carpets and curtains, and stacks of clothes or ‘stuff’ that hasn’t moved for a while.

Poor ventilation allows mould spores to proliferate, and truthfully, how often do we excavate the backs of our wardrobes to check for damp or mould?! Animal hair and dander may also have crept in, even if your pets aren’t allowed in the room.

If you are overweight or suffer from reflux or post nasal drip, you may find that being horizontal impinges on your ability to breath efficiently. This can be made worse by sleeping on your front or back – side sleeping is better.

A before-bed dose of your favourite anti-allergy remedy will help, as will having a nasal spray or essential oil inhaler to hand by your bed.

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Q.

We got a new dog a couple of months ago, and noticed that my teenage son is getting more allergy symptoms than usual.

Could there be a link? He didn’t react to our previous dog.

A.

It may depend on the type of dog, or even the sex of the dog! An oversensitive immune system may react to proteins in a dog’s dander, saliva or urine, which are very light and can waft around very easily. There are 6 specific proteins currently known to act as allergens in this way, and people can be reactive to one or more of them. As the proteins differ in different breeds and genders of dog, it can be very confusing.

One particularly troublesome protein is called Can f 5, and teenagers who are reactive to this may be more tolerant of female dogs than male. A neutered male dog may be tolerated though, just to add a layer of confusion!

Thorough cleaning obviously helps, but keep your son out of the way after dusting or hoovering, as particles you’ve stirred up will still be airborne. Keep your dog out of his bedroom. A diet high in vitamin C and beta carotene can quell symptom severity too.

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

Q.

I’ve found that drinking lots of nettle tea or using nettle tincture seems to reduce my hayfever symptoms, which have been bugging me for longer periods of time each year for a while now. Do nettles really help? And can I use nettles alongside my antihistamines when I need them?

A.

Yes, nettle extract has been shown to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Allergic rhinitis encompasses allergy symptoms affecting your nose, making it runny, blocked, swollen, itchy, or otherwise irritated!

Allergic rhinitis is increasingly common, due to a combination of factors that include an increase in environmental pollution, more exposure to airborne irritants at work or home, higher stress levels, and an increase in the aggressiveness of pollen produced by plants in polluted environments.

Nettle extract has been found to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis by blocking histamine receptors, and inhibiting an enzyme called tryptase that works alongside histamine to produce its irritating effects.

You can use nettles alongside antihistamine medication and other natural hayfever remedies. It’s great to have a positive view of these so-called ‘weeds’!

Ask Ali anything!

Send your health questions, in confidence to: askali@holisticscot.com Questions will only be published with your permission and will remain anonymous. Ali’s answers are not intended to take the place of medical advice.

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

Allergy relief Are your sunny days filled with sneezing and sniffling? Need a helping hand fighting those pesky allergens?

Pollinosan Hayfever Tablets is a homeopathic medicinal product used within the homeopathic tradition to relieve the symptoms of hayfever and other forms of allergic rhinitis. Both conditions give rise to irritating symptoms such as itching and watery eyes, sneezing and tickly nose or throat. It is non-drowsy and won’t affect your ability to drive or use machinery. Suitable for children over 12 years of age. Always read the leaflet.

www.avogel.co.uk

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18/02/2020 10:49

WELLBEING

Spring clean every area of your life the Swedish way ‘Lagom’ is a Swedish term for ‘just the right amount,’ and denotes a mindful approach to life, focusing on moderation, balance, sustainability and frugality. This ‘not too much nor too little’ lifestyle can be harnessed in every aspect of our lives, from finding a good work-life balance or promoting mental wellbeing, to managing finances and embracing sustainable living.

The principles of lagom can also be adopted into interior design, with an increasing number of us Brits already preferring simpler, pared-back styles in our homes, embracing minimalist design, opting for ecofriendly materials, and choosing to declutter on a regular basis.

“In Sweden, lagom plays into all areas of our lives, but it is particularly present in the home,” says Catharina Björkman, lifestyle expert at Swedish wood-burning stove brand, Contura. “Having a busy working schedule and packed social life can make us feel overwhelmed, which is where a calming home environment can play an important role in boosting wellbeing.

“We Swedes pride ourselves on creating a home sanctuary, making it a place where we can relax and unwind, as well as enjoy spending quality time with family and friends.”

1. Simplicity is key Forget bright or bold colour schemes, when it comes to lagom, choose neutral tones that are simple yet elegant. You don’t need to stick with white as warm redbased shades, soft pinks and dusky greys all provide a soothing, neutral background.

2. De-clutter Don’t be tempted to let items pile up on shelves, tables or surfaces. Embrace lagom and remove clutter on a regular basis. Go through your clothes and shoes and donate any items that are no longer of use. Curate your personal items – books, magazines, photo frames, etc.

– and only keep your favourites. Loose items that you don’t use every day can be tidied away in stylish storage boxes to keep rooms organised.

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WELLBEING

3. Keep it green

6. Mellow lighting

A variety of green plants and foliage can give a room an instant uplift whilst also ensuring better indoor air quality.

Choose easy-to-care for varieties, such as cactus, spider plants, aloe vera or cheese plants. If you have a dark room or areas without much light, fake plants can also make great decor additions.

Soft lighting creates a relaxing environment, so ditch overhead spotlights for soothing lamp light or strings of fairy or festoon lights whenever possible. You’ll also save money on energy bills by switching off lights and keeping usage to a minimum.

4. Upcycle or recycle Before splashing out on new furniture or homewares, check online sites to see if you can bag a bargain. Try your hand at a little DIY to spruce up larger items such as tables, chairs or sofas, as varnishing, painting or reupholstering gives an instant facelift. It often works out much cheaper to upcycle or repurpose rather than purchase brand-new items, plus, pre-loved furniture is more unique and personal.

5. Key design touches Keeping balance in mind, Swedish interiors are typically pared-back but do include one or two feature design pieces. Add a large floor lamp, interesting art piece or design-led chair to create key focal points in a room, keeping the rest of the interiors very minimal by comparison.

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7. Up the cosy factor Fluffy blankets, cushions and candles all help to create a cosy interior; perfect for when the weather is bad and you want to spend time indoors. For added cosiness, add woven rugs to wooden floors, frame and hang your favourite photos and use fragrant diffusers to spread a delicious scent throughout your home.

8. Up the nature stakes Laid-back lagom also encourages us to embrace the natural world in all its glory. Choose natural materials, such as untreated wood, soft cotton and items that have been hand crafted, such as woven baskets, wicker chairs and embroidered cushions. Forget glitzy or decadent design and choose simple pieces that add true style and originality to a space.

Find out more at http://www.contura.eu

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

Shake off the Winter months with a nutrient Spring clean!

The dark, dull months at the beginning of the year can have an impact on our energy levels, immune system and cognitive function. Now that the clocks have changed and British Summertime has officially started, longer daylight hours and warmer weather is the perfect time to shake off the winter with a nutrient spring clean.

Dr Carrie Ruxton from the Health and Food Supplements Information Service shares her top tips:

1

Take a multivitamin, or supplement containing vitamin C and zinc to support normal immune function. If you take vitamin C and zinc together at the start of a cold, they can knock a couple of days off your symptoms. Vitamin C can also be found in kiwi and citrus fruits, while fish and meat are a rich source of zinc.

2

Energy levels can feel low as Winter recedes. B vitamins have a vital role in helping the body to extract energy from our foods, particularly carbohydrates.

A ‘B complex’ supplement, containing thiamin, riboflavin, B6, B12, folic acid and niacin is a good option, particularly if you are vegetarian or vegan. B vitamins are found naturally in meat, fish and eggs.

3

Boost your energy with daily exercise, such as brisk walking, dancing or gym classes. This creates endorphin chemicals in the brain which make us feel more positive. Support your active lifestyle by choosing food and drinks rich in polyphenols which support blood vessel function, such as colourful fruits and vegetables, orange juice, tea and dark chocolate.

4

Mental function depends on the ease of chemical messages jumping from one brain junction to another, called synapses. Studies show that the longchain omega-3 fatty acids found in marine oils help to make this process more effective. Omega-3s can be found in oily fish, such as salmon and mackerel, or fish oil supplements.

5

Stave off sluggishness by getting better quality sleep. Switch off all screenbased entertainment at least an hour before bed, do some relaxing meditation and then enjoy a warm milky drink. Dairy foods contain an amino acid, called tryptophan, which the body uses to make serotonin and help regulate sleep. You can also take a supplement containing 5-HTP.

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WELLBEING

Dial up your positivity – Zen-fold!

Don’t let negative thoughts cramp your style, take wisdom from Zen Master Julian Daizan Skinner and practise these simple Zen techniques towards a happier, healthier you!

acceptance 1 Practice It often helps to remember that a cloud of thoughts is just a bunch of electrical sparks running though the brain. You don’t have to take them all that seriously. Just let them come and go without resistance and they tend to dissolve.

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gratitude 2 Cultivate I like to turn my attention to 10 things I’m grateful for as soon as I wake up. Typically, the simplest things go on the list: the room temperature, the quiet in the room, the morning light and so on. As gratitude becomes a habit, we’re much less likely to get stuck in the negative stuff.

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3 Move If you’re feeling negative, just take a moment to stand up and mirror that feeling in your posture. Hunch your shoulders, bow your head, and frown. Then do the opposite. Take on the physical posture of a positive, confident person. Hold it for two minutes and your mood will change – guaranteed!

someone 4 Help Chances are you’re not the worstoff person in the world, even though it may feel like it sometimes. Look around and find someone who needs help. Weed the old lady next door’s garden; give some clothes to Oxfam, or smile at that stressedout mum. If you build these little habits into your day, you won’t feel down for long.

the hara 7 Cleanse In Zen, it’s believed that when the hara (the belly area) is strong and energised, you are powerful, positive and grounded. When it’s weak, we can feel overly emotional and susceptible to stress.

There’s a powerful breathing exercise you can do to cleanse the hara and immediately release negative emotions (which are often stored in our gut area).

Simply inhale deeply and, as you exhale, make a ‘ha’ sound, gradually opening your mouth as wide as it comfortably goes. Repeat this 10 times.

5 Breathe Let your breath be your anchor.

Simply move your attention from the thoughts to the sensations generated by the rising and sinking of your breath. You’ll start to feel differently and breathing consciously tends to be good for your health too.

6 Challenge

negative thoughts

When you feel negativity bubbling up inside you, don’t react immediately. Just sit quietly with your emotions for a minute or so and process them. Then actively think of five positive thoughts for every negative one that arises. You’ll find the momentum shifts in a beneficial direction.

Julian Daizan Skinner is a meditation and wellness author. His book Rough Waking, which was co-written by Laszlo Mihaly, is currently available to buy – with all the proceeds helping to support the Rough Waking Project, which distributes the book into prisons, libraries and various other venues and offers Zen yoga and meditation to people who are confined, imprisoned, or homeless. Find out more at zenways.org

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WELLBEING

Working remotely?

Here’s how to stay motivated!

Jordan Baker, CEO of Sanity Marketing, who has worked with more than 650 clients, ranging from the House of Commons to the Crowne Plaza Hotel chain, encourages home working. Here are his top tips…

up a designated working spot – it’s easy when working from 1. Set home to get comfortable wherever you please, whether it’s the sofa or your bed.

But to increase productivity, it’s important to set up a home office or at least a set working desk to keep your mind work-focused and keep your work separate from other aspects of your home-life.

a good routine – with no set starting or finishing time or public 2. Create transport to catch, it’s easy to work too many hours or perhaps not enough hours. Setting a strict start time to your day and setting an alarm means you will be in a structured routine. It’s also a good idea to have a dedicated finishing time so you don’t work too many hours.

healthy – particularly when working 3. Stay from home, it’s easy to fall victim to unhealthy snacking and sitting at your work desk for long periods of time. Ensure you take regular breaks and make healthy meals, and also incorporate exercise into your day, making sure you’re not spending long, intense hours completing your work without moving.

Ensure you take regular breaks and make healthy meals…

breaks – when you’re wrapped up in 4. Take completing your work, it’s easy to work all hours of the day without taking breaks. It’s important to enjoy regular breaks to refresh the mind, and these can be in short, sharp bursts throughout the day. It’s also important to stand up and move around to stretch your body out and be as comfortable as possible during your work.

social – working from home can be lonely. Schedule some video calls 5. Stay with colleagues and contacts throughout the day. Some home-workers even work in chat-rooms with colleagues on in the background for that truly ‘social’ office feel.

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CAREER CHANGE SPECIAL

e f i l w e n r u Yo starts here!

Suddenly, with all this spare time on our hands, we are all discovering new things and diversifying in the best way we know how.

It’s an anxious time and uncertain if, how or when life as we knew it will resume.

But it’s also a great opportunity to embrace online learning, develop new skills, try our hands at making our own, and create new revenue streams online.

So get arty, get crafty, study hedgewitchery – whatever you fancy!

It’s time to start creating the lifestyle and career you’ve always wanted so you can hit the ground running in the months to come.

Check out the next few pages for inspiration.

You may not be able to study all our featured careers at home, but you can certainly start planning.

Your future starts now!

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PRO M OT I O NA L F E AT U R E

“CNM gave me an incredible sense of meaning and purpose” Carli-Louan Foster, now a CNM nutritional therapy graduate, embarked on a new, holistic direction and has never looked back “After a Master’s Degree in Reproductive & Sexual Health Research at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, I worked for a FTSE 100 company and did project work with the head of corporate social responsibility, an exauditor who had trained at one of the ‘Big 4’,” says Carli-Louan.

“Her success inspired me, so I obtained ACA qualification and worked in a series of demanding, intense roles in the financial sector.

“But my career was the start of 10 years of chronic stress and working long hours with no work-life balance.

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It got so bad I was at breaking point, running on adrenaline, not eating properly and experiencing chest pains.

“The turning point was when someone asked me what I wanted my legacy to be. It was a huge wake up call.

“Using exercise to help me cope with the stress, I went to an event my trainer, a CNM graduate, was running on nutrition.

I was hooked. I’ve always been interested in health but at that point I was exhausted, stressed, my hair was thinning and I was struggling with acne and a hormone imbalance.

“Working with Keris and Matt transformed my

health and perspective on life. I realised the damage I was doing and that I needed to fix it.

I also realised I had a huge desire to help other people, but the voluntary work I’d done over the years wasn’t enough.

There was no fulfilment or meaning to my life.

“I knew quite a few people who had studied or were studying with CNM so I decided to join.

The clinical experience, observing and working with clients was fascinating, emotionally intense and fulfilling. It

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challenged me, pushed me outside of my comfort zone and gave me an incredible sense of meaning and purpose.

“I love the definition of health from Moshi Feldenkrais as ‘the ability to live your dreams’. I want my legacy to be helping other people live their dreams.

“The CNM course emphasises the need to tackle the root cause of symptoms. This was so true in my life; I needed to tackle the root cause of my stress - being in the wrong career that didn’t align to my core values.

“I feel so happy that I’m now on a path where I’m excited to get up in

the morning because I can make a difference to someone’s health and wellbeing. I’m no longer stressed and miserable. I feel like a new person.

“I’ve been able use my knowledge from the course to build a good, healthy foundation for myself. More recently I’ve used this knowledge to prepare my body for having a baby and I managed to fall pregnant pretty much straight away at 37 and now have a beautiful, healthy baby girl at the end of a great pregnancy. I’m planning to specialise in female health and fertility doing what I love, which is making a positive difference in people’s lives.”

CNM

COLLEGE OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE

Training Successful Practitioners

CHANGE CAREER Train to become a…  Nutritionist  Herbalist  Acupuncturist  Homeopath  Health Coach  Natural Chef

CNM has a 22-year track record training successful professionals in natural therapies, including Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Health Coach & Natural Chef/Vegan Natural Chef, in class and online. Colleges across the UK and Ireland.

CNM Natural Chef Diploma Course is accredited by the Independent Cookery Schools Association (ICSA).

Visit naturopathy-uk.com or naturalchef.com or call 01342 410 505

Do something life-changing

Attend a FREE Open Event

Postgraduate & Short Courses Part-time and full-time studies Study in class or online

Improve Your Health - Change Career - Help Others

Come to a CNM Online Open Event Call 01342 410 505 - To reserve your spot Study online or in class.

80% of our graduates are practising

Colleges across the UK and Ireland

01342 410 505 naturopathy-uk.com

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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Kinesiology Treatments & Training, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Bowen, Reiki Healing/Attunements & more The Wellness Cottage 32 Smithyends, Cumbernauld G67 2SL

Emily Tuck 07867 557320 www.transformtherapies.com

Are You an Early Years Professional Looking for a New Career Opportunity?

Then Why Not Train as a Play Therapist with APAC?

With an estimated 20% of UK Primary School Children requiring therapeutic support, the need for qualified child mental health professionals has never been greater. The Academy of Play and Child Psychotherapy is the world’s most experienced provider of Play Therapy training, qualifying successful students to safely and effectively support school age children struggling with their mental health.

Enrol onto one of our One-Day Introduction to Play Therapy Training Courses to learn more about the interventions and media used in Therapeutic Play, as well as our experiential based training methods and potential career opportunities.

Upcoming Course Dates Include: • Edinburgh - Saturday 2nd May 2020 • Glasgow - Saturday 5th December 2020 Alternatively, if you’re ready to start your formal Play Therapy Training, our next PostGraduate Certificate in Therapeutic Play Skills starts Friday 9th October in Edinburgh.

For more information or to make an application, contact our Admissions Office today on 01825 761 143 or contact@apac.org.uk www.apac.org.uk

www.playtherapy.org.uk

CAREER CHANGE SPECIAL

CAREERS IN MEDICAL HERBALISM

If you’re passionate about natural health, a career in herbalism could be for you!

M

edical herbalists take a holistic approach to illness – treating the underlying cause of disease and not just the symptoms.

If that sounds like the direction you’d like to take, you’ll need to study for a BSc degree or equivalent in Herbal Medicine, and acquire a minimum of 500 hours’ practical, clinical experience.

As part of your course, you’ll study both orthodox and plant medicine and train in the same diagnostic skills as a GP. Once you qualify, you’ll be able to prescribe herbal remedies to be used alongside other medication and treatments.

Find out about accredited courses at nimh.org.uk

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CAREER CHANGE SPECIAL

Training the medical herbalists of the future A new teaching clinic at Health Food & More in Kirkcaldy is helping to train the medical herbalists of the future. he Kingdom Community Herbal T Clinic is giving second and third year medical herbalism students the chance

train the future competition to make that happen.

to clock up the 500 clinical training hours required to become fully qualified.

“There are currently only around 50 NIMH qualified medical herbalists in Scotland,” she says.

As part of their training, the students get to shadow mentor Keren Brynes Maclean MNIMH, who is one of Scotland’s most experienced medical herbalists, with more than 25 years’ natural health expertise.

“Yet we know from our patients and ongoing research that modern, or allopathic, healthcare doesn’t have all the answers.

Working alongside Keren gives them the practical, face-to-face consulting and dispensing experience that’s essential for a career in medical herbalism.

The students are all undertaking professional studies with Heartwood, which is the education and training arm of the NIMH (National Institute of Medical Herbalists) Education Fund, a UK charity specialising in foundation and post-graduate professional development courses in herbal medicine.

“We also know that the drugs don’t always work for every condition or for every person. But medical herbalism can help to bridge that gap between the shortfalls in mainstream medicine and NHS waiting times.

“A lot of patients we see suffer from longterm, chronic or auto-immune conditions, which can benefit from complementary medicine over and above the care they receive from their GP or specialist.

They are all mature students, for whom herbal medicine is an addition to their existing medical profession, qualification and skillset.

“Simple, natural remedies such as herbal teas, supplements or tinctures can, at the very least, help relieve the symptoms or anxiety associated with certain conditions and help sufferers get a better night’s sleep.

Keren, who qualified in 1996, believes there’s a real need for more medical herbalists in Scotland and is willing to

“Some of the issues we see in the clinic include menopause and other hormonal problems; stress, anxiety and panic

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“The future of medical herbalism is bright” Beth Eaton is one of the students training at Kingdom Community Herbal Clinic.

She works as a speciality paediatric doctor within the NHS and has decided to add to her skillset by studying medical herbalism.

Her focus is babies and normal infant development.

“I have recently undergone a major re-evaluation of my purpose in life and feel that my current role doesn’t always allow me to fully meet my patients’ needs,” says Beth.

“Conventional healthcare can be very restrictive and guideline driven and I believe in a more bespoke approach that’s tailored to the individual.

“When I started this journey, I wasn’t sure how herbalism would fit into my career as a doctor. I’m now realising that I’ll be giving up conventional medicine to focus on herbal medicine. My interest will always be in children’s health.

“I’m inspired by how clever nature is at helping to heal itself and by those living in synchrony with nature.

attacks; IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and other digestive complaints; skin problems; allergies, and just plain being tired all the time.

“We know that NHS services are stretched and GPs often don’t have the time or resources to take a more holistic view, but that’s where herbal medicine can help.”

And it’s a win, win because the new teaching clinic, which runs two days every month, means that professional,

“Modern drugs may have powerful effects but, in adjusting the composition of natural therapies, they introduce many side effects.

“Polypharmacy (the use of multiple medications by a single patient) is a growing issue. Herbs, on the other hand, work synergistically with very few side effects.”

Beth is enjoying her training at Health Food and More – also home to Fife Herbal Dispensary – and says studying herbal medicine even helps her to relax.

“The days I spend observing in the herbal clinic leave me on a major high,” says Beth.

“The NHS is not sustainable in the current model. The government is keen for privatisation and it’s likely we’ll have to contribute financially towards our healthcare in the future.

“When people are required to pay, they expect the best possible service tailored to them. Many may find that herbalism and other holistic therapies offer this more readily than conventional medicine.” natural health advice is now more accessible to people in Fife.

Each student consultation is offered at a reduced rate – making herbal medicine affordable for people on lower incomes.

The new Kingdom Community Clinic is open to men, women and children of all ages.

To find out more, including dates, visit healthfoodandmore.co.uk

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PRO M OT I O NA L F E AT U R E

Become a play therapist and improve children’s lives Play Therapy UK estimates that Scotland currently needs 2,622 more therapists to support children who have emotional wellbeing, behavioural or mental health issues. If you have worked professionally with children and have a level 6 qualification, this could be a good opportunity to train as a Registered Certified Play Therapist.

What will you be doing?

Who will I be working with?

Most Play Therapists work in primary schools.

Others work in special needs schools, children’s centres, residential care homes or CAHMS teams.

Although working hours are flexible, a typical pattern is four to five one-hour sessions per day, working four to five days a week during the school term.

You will be working in a playroom or private play space equipped with a wide range of toys and creative arts media.

The children usually choose what to do so you need to be trained to communicate with them using the same medium whilst maintaining safe boundaries. Talking is only used for around 7% of the session.

Usually children aged 3 to 12. The Integrative Holistic Model is effective for a wide range of problems, including family relationship difficulties, attachment issues, anger management, experience of domestic violence, anxiety, bereavement, lack of self-esteem, autism, adjustment issues and neglect.

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How can I work?

You could initially be employed part or full time and once fully qualified self-employed. With hard work, earnings can reach £80,000 per year.

What training will I need?

The most effective model, validated by practicebased evidence, is

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Integrative Holistic. This model meets the requirements of the Register of Play and Creative Arts Therapists, accredited by the Professional Standards Authority, an independent government agency responsible for overseeing the registration and regulation of health and social care professions in the UK. It also conforms to the principles of the new Child Mental Health Charter.

Training is available in three stages: 1. Post-Graduate Certificate in Therapeutic Play Skills – to qualify as a Certified Practitioner in Therapeutic Play Skills and work with individual children who have low to moderate therapy need 2. Post-Graduate Diploma in Play Therapy – to qualify as a Play Therapist and work with individual children who have more severe requirements, as well as groups of children 3. MA in Practice Based Play Therapy – for those who wish to carry out research on a specialised topic and take the profession forward It is essential for public and professional credibility that the training you undertake:

1. Is validated by a British university and provides academic level 7 awards 2. Is accredited by a professional organisation who manage a register accredited by the PSA 3. Conforms to the principles of the Child Mental Health Charter

What career progression opportunities are there?

Once full qualified, you may progress to become a Certified Clinical Supervisor of Play and Creative Arts Therapists, a Certified Filial Play Coach (to coach parents) or even a Trainer of future Play Therapists.

How can I be sure that it’s the right move for me?

Our Introduction to Play Therapy Training Days are ideal for anyone considering undertaking one of our PostGraduate Courses. Participants will experience non-directive Play Therapy for themselves and there will also be time to ask the Course Director any questions you may have about progression to the next stage of training. Upcoming Training Days scheduled to take place in Scotland include: • Saturday 2nd May 2020 in Edinburgh • Saturday 5th December 2020 in Glasgow

For more information or to make an application, contact our Admissions Team on 01825 761 143 or visit the websites listed below. www.apac.org.uk www.playtherapy.org.uk www.playtherapyregister.org.uk

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CAREER CHANGE SPECIAL

Kitchen table start-ups

An doesn ew career ’t hav e to m t im family e away from ean .

Y the ou home ! Here can work f rom a re table e ntrepr four kitche e n have b neurs e w that a en there, do ho nd bo ne ug T-shir ht the t!

Plant-based pioneers Popcorn professionals From garden shed start-up to Harrods, the Popcorn Shed gourmet popcorn brand has gone global in a short space of time thanks to cousins Sam Feller and Laura Jackson.

“We started experimenting with popcorn recipes in Laura’s mother’s kitchen,” says Sam. “As recipe development continued to create the perfect tasting popcorn, so did the mess and we were banished to the garden shed in Laura’s mother’s back garden.”

Biochemist-turned-entrepreneur Christopher Kong and his three foodie friends, food scientists Amadeus Driando Ahnan, product developer Fabio Rinaldo and marketing strategist Elin Roberts, founded Better Nature from a kitchen table in 2018.

Passionate about ending the suffering caused by the animal protein industry and to create a happier, healthier and more sustainable planet, their awardwinning tempeh brand is going from strength to strength and still largely run from their own homes.

They have created a product line that’s dedicated to minimising waste and only uses Pro-Terra certified soybeans certified by the Soil Association.

Find out more at betternaturefoods.co

The family started referring to the shed as the ‘Popcorn Shed’, and that’s how they stumbled upon a name for their burgeoning business. From humble beginnings the entrepreneurial cousins now outsource production to two UK based factories and are exporting to over 20 countries including Hong Kong, Japan, Portugal, Sweden and France.

Find out more at popcornshed.com 36

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

The natural beauty and wildlife ambassador The mumpreneur empowering women Burnt out by the 9 to 5, Wilma Macdonald swapped a successful career in banking to set up Maverick Motherhood, an online community for women who are changing the world – and also happen to have kids.

“Without even noticing, I’d become a corporate cliché,” says Wilma, who is based in Edinburgh.

“An overworked, overwhelmed, over-caffeinated, croissant-eating short-tempered version of myself. I knew that I had to figure out an exit route.

“I didn’t want to become my angry, red-faced boss.

“So I ditched my ‘successful’ career in banking and retrained as a nutritional therapist. My job had led to me losing my hair, sleep and eventually - my mind.

“There was no practical advice out there for the modern mum who wanted to take care of her family and herself. So I carefully created it.

“I now help women realise they don’t have to feel like sh*t as mums by helping them get their energy back and remember who they are as people. When we love ourselves, it’s easier to love our families.

Not only did botanist Dr. Sally Gouldstone launch Scottish beauty brand Seilich from her kitchen table, she has recently become the first entrepreneur in the UK to achieve Wildlife Friendly™ Certification from the Wildlife Friendly Enterprise Network for her products.

Wildlife Friendly™ products contribute to the conservation of over 12 million hectares of diverse wetlands, forests, and grasslands; protect keystone endangered species in Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin and North America, including the Snow Leopard, Elephant, Tiger, Cheetah, Red Panda, and Wolf; and benefit over 200,000 people through increased food security, income and employment.

Sally’s artisan beauty brand, which is built entirely around sustainability, comprises a range of handmade natural cosmetics including face mists, body sprays and room mists.

Using the Scottish Pollinator Strategy, Seilich creates native wildflower meadows at the hub of its business from which ingredients for their products are grown and harvested.

Find out more at seilich.co.uk

“I know first-hand that you can love your food, love yourself, and still be a really great mum.”

Find out more at maverickmotherhood.co

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W E L L B E I N G AWA R D S

Celebrating excellence in natural health and wellbeing

A

lthough the Holistic Scotland Magazine Wellbeing Awards 2020 have been postponed until 20 September, we are still looking forward to celebrating Scotland’s growing natural health and wellbeing industry with as many of our readers, supporters, nominees and finalists as possible.

Our awards will culminate in an evening of recognition hosted by radio presenter Gina McKie at the Apex Grassmarket Hotel in Edinburgh, with a three-course gala dinner, official ceremony and live music entertainment.

We’ll also be raising money for Maggie’s Centres with a raffle and/or silent auction.

We’re pleased to announce our finalists are: Team of the Year

Wellbeing Ambassador of the Year

LifeHeal, Linlithgow and Peebles

Jenny Light, Living Lightly

Fire Hearted Life,

Sarah Nixon, Authentic Bliss Holistic Therapies

Dalhousie Castle Spa The Gin Spa Weleda Wellbeing Advisors Team, Scotland Independent Health Retailer of the Year Napier’s Bathgate Health Food & More, Kirkcaldy Happy Earth Place, Dunfermline Flora Fusion, Leven

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Inspiration Award Anne Tremble, Linda Tremble Foundation Monica Wilde, Lyme Disease Scotland Donna Nelson, Yoga by Donna

Jacqueline Cogan, Women’s Circle Facilitator

Susan Watson, Perfect Solutions Coaching

Lindsey Porter, Yoga Nu U

Best Studio Calm On Canning Street

Donna Booth, Vitality

Prana Yoga Studio

Gary Young, The Mindful Enterprise

Tranquility 21 The Lavender Studio The Mission Hall Studio

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

Best Outdoor Wellbeing Initiative

Therapist of the Year

Midlothian Forest School Little Acorns Early Years Birken Tree The Ecology Centre Wanderwomen Scotland

Janine, Inspirational Therapies Carole Henderson, Carole Henderson Therapies

The Wee Hemp Company

Hope CBD

Little Fox Soapery Seilich Botanicals Anderson Aromatics Workplace Wellbeing Initiative of the Year

Wellbeing Venue of the Year

Geez Peace Workplace Wellness

Calm On Canning Street

Stassin Leadership & Coaching

Mandala Flow

The Wee Retreat

LifeHeal

The Gin Spa

Grass Roots Remedies Coop

Odara Mineral Beauty

The Body Mind Soul Hub

Spa Persona

Limethistle Bo’Ness

Lucky Cloud Skincare

Laurie Graham, Simply Scentered Holistic Therapies

Best Clinic/Practice

Amanda’s Podiatry

JustBe Botanicals

EmmaJane Wilson, LoveTherapies

Carefree Kids Yoga Hashtag Organics

Solasta Skin

Claire Taylor, Taylor Made Holistics

Emma Frame, Voices of Yoga

Enlighten Cupar

Wheesht Beauty Masks

Gemma Russell, Gemma Russell Hypnotherapy

Outstanding Innovation

Fire & Rain Soul Spa

Angela Brown, Live Well Therapies

Best Natural Skincare/ Beauty Brand

Queens Cross Housing Association

Radio Clyde Crown Office & Procurator Fiscal Service

The Body Toolkit Retreats Driftwood Floatation Spa Soul Retreat

Well done everyone and good luck!

You can find out more about our awards at www.holisticscotland.com SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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W E L L B E I N G AWA R D S

Meet our sponsors!

The Holistic Scotland Magazine Wellbeing Awards 2020 wouldn’t be possible without the support of our sponsors.

We are very lucky to be hosting this year’s event in association with A.Vogel, Water for Health and Mind and Mission.

A.Vogel

Water for Health

Founded in 1963 by Swiss naturopath Alfred Vogel, A.Vogel herbal remedies can be found in over 40 countries, including the UK, Ireland and Switzerland.

Water for Health, which is based in Perthshire, was founded in 2007 by Roddy Macdonald, who has a keen interest in the therapeutic properties of water and still runs the company today with the help of his son, Ed.

The company is based on an organic farm in Switzerland. By growing its own herbs, A.Vogel – a Trust dedicating money to education and research – accompanies these remedies at every stage of their journey, from seed to shelf.

Through clinical experience, Alfred found that herbal remedies made from freshly harvested herbs work better than dried.

The extra effort put into using fresh plants is what still distinguishes A.Vogel, which is based in Ayrshire, from other herbal products on the market today.

Find out more at www.avogel.co.uk

Roddy’s own health journey inspired him to help others and share the knowledge and strategies he had developed for good health. In particular, he wanted to share his experience of how the body’s pH can be a major factor in achieving vitality.

Now, Water for Health prides itself on promoting proper hydration and nutrition for optimum health and specialises in natural health supplements, which include sublingual vitamins, fish oils, probiotics, and superfood powders, as well as alkaline water filters.

Find out more at www.water-for-health.co.uk

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SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

“…celebrating Scotland’s growing natural health and wellbeing industry…”

Mind and Mission Mind and Mission is based in Edinburgh and specialises in workplace mental health.

Apex Hotels Our Inspiration Award is being supported by Apex Hotels.

Directors Louise Scott and Kirsty Ritchie work with businesses of all sizes to enhance the mental health and wellbeing of their employees and boost organisational performance.

They are both highly qualified psychotherapists who are passionate about mental health first aid following their own experiences of working in the corporate sector.

“When we met, it was obvious we shared a passion for supporting mental health,” says Louise.

Find out more about Louise and Kirsty’s own experiences with mental health at www.mindandmission.com

You can find out more about our awards at www.holisticscotland.com SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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W E L L B E I N G AWA R D S

Spotlight on…

Happy Earth Place

H

appy Earth Place in Dunfermline is in the running for Independent Health Retailer of the Year.

The shop, which is run by Claire HansonRenegadeson, is Fife’s first award-winning, zero-waste, eco-friendly store - selling dried and wholefoods, washing and cleaning refills, and earth-friendly body care.

“To win a national award after a year trading would be such an enormous achievement for me,” says Claire.

“I’m a sole-trader, so everything here is me, not a well-oiled machine like other larger companies.

“I’ve been blown away with people’s commitment to shopping locally, ethically and consciously and I feel strongly that eating healthily, as well as shopping in an eco-friendly way, must have a positive impact on people’s mental health and wellbeing.”

Although the shop is temporarily closed due to current restrictions, you can still stay up-to-date with Happy Earth Place on Facebook.

Don’t miss out!

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If you haven’t yet booked your tickets for the Holistic Scotland Magazine Wellbeing Awards 2020, there are still a limited number available.

To book, go to www.holisticscotland.com/tickets SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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End

PRO M OT I O NA L F E AT U R E

Open your mind to a world of colour Colour card readings could hold the key to your consciousness, health and success, writes psychic consultant and author Alison Demarco

C

olour choices are thought to reveal your mental, emotional, spiritual and most physically challenging obstacles.

They can help you understand your life, yourself, and others, and help you develop new behavioural and communication skills which can support a more consistent state of health, focus and productivity.

My job is to pinpoint the priorities, so you can get out of the muddle, which caused you to lose track of what makes you joyful and peaceful.

We get stuck in a rut we think will lead us to success and joy, but we never quite seem to reach that plateau.

I can offer the tools and insights to guide you towards your desired results and lifestyle - not to a plateau, but to find your true desired destiny - one that makes you feel good.

Harnessing the will to choose and act with your gut, heart, soul and mind in unison can create freedom from emotional blockages, fear, over-thinking and worry.

Realising you are the driver of your own actions, beliefs, habits, traits, conditioning, thinking and persona (and being in touch with your true self) can enable self-awareness so that you can experience the joy of living, free from all conflict.

Alison Demarco, who is based in Edinburgh, has studied with scientists, doctors and the late Aura Soma founder, Vicky Wall. For more than 25 years, she has helped people by reading their colour choices from her Own Your Power Cards, based on the ancient Language of Colour. She has been featured on BBC TV, radio and in newspapers and magazines.

Find out more at alisondemarco.com 44

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

REIKI AND WELLNESS UK Mary Sewell • Usui & Karuna Reiki Master & Access Bars practitioner

• Treatments to clear your mind and lift the fog

• Treatments for your body, mind and spirit

• Chakra Balancing to bring balance into your life

• Treatments for physical and Emotional issues

07936 614 561 www.reikiandwellnessuk.com

WELLBEING WELLBEING

Coping with anxiety Columnist Marie O’Neill interviews former client Jane Jackson* on what it’s really like to experience crippling anxiety

I

f you have suffered from anxiety for some time and have tried different things, but are starting to feel like nothing is working, you’re not alone.

Here, my former client, Jane* shares her story of how anxiety was threatening to ruin her life and how she overcame it by incorporating simple yet powerful tools into her everyday life.

“Along with the physical symptoms of having an anxiety attack (heart racing, numbness, overheating, feeling sick, worry) came the of constant dread, “…how anxiety days unhappiness, worry and was threatening feeling down.

to ruin her life and how she overcame it…”

“I have never been confident,” says Jane. “Since childhood, I have been a worrier and nervous, but it wasn’t until my 20s that I realised I suffered from anxiety.

“Although it was terrifying when I first started to experience it in my 20s, I would say I’ve suffered more recently in my 40s. *Names have been changed to protect confidentiality.

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“Even on the days I was feeling better, it was on my mind 24/7. An attack would affect me badly – and for days after.

“I was at the stage where I would try anything and finally found some tools that worked for me.

“I still worry about things – I wouldn’t be human if I didn’t – but not to the extent as I used to.

“Using these tools and building my confidence has transformed my life for the better.

“I can’t remember the last time I was anxious, had a sleepless night worrying or a panic attack.

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

“…I have seen a huge rise in anxiety over the past few years…”

Marie O’Neill

Coping with anxiety – a holistic toolkit to bring back calm Marie O’Neill, is a counsellor and mindfulness coach who specialises in anxiety and is the founder of True Connection based in Edinburgh.

She has developed her own holistic toolkit for coping with anxiety.

“Anxiety is horrible! There’s no other way to put it,” she says. “It makes you feel awful physically and emotionally and it can have a massive negative impact on all areas of life.

“As a counsellor and mindfulness coach I have seen a huge rise in anxiety over the past few years, due to the pressures of our modern lifestyles.

“In this toolkit I explain how anxiety works on a physical, mental and neurological level and most importantly, how to treat it using a combination of holistic techniques such as mindfulness, journaling, psychological tools, guided exercises and lifestyle changes.”

Sign up for Coping with anxiety – a holistic toolkit to bring back calm at www.trueconnection.co.uk

Jane’s anxiety toolkit 5-minute worry time At the same time every morning, I spend 5 minutes writing down my worries, no matter how big or small.

By scheduling a time to worry, it stops me worrying about things all day. If I start to think about something, I put it to the side in my mind then write it down at the time I’ve allocated. This frees up my mind to enjoy my day more and helps me tackle those worries as they’re written down.

Self-affirmations and being kinder to myself I pick a positive statement about myself and recite it throughout the day. It gives me a chance to be nicer to myself and break the bad habit of my negative thinking being my own worst critic.

It also makes me feel more confident, empowered and allows me to hush the self-doubt. I did struggle with thinking differently at the start but over time I’ve started to believe it.

Journaling Writing events, thoughts and feelings has helped me gain clarity and understand myself better. I am the type of person who would store a lot of stuff in my mind but this way I can get it down on paper.

Meditation After I’ve woken up, I meditate for 10 minutes every morning – just after my 5-minute worry time. It calms my mind, helps me think clearer, makes me feel more at ease and generally happier.

Yoga For me, yoga is not just good for my body it’s good for my mind. I lay out my mat, switch off the outside world and focus on my practice whether I’m in class or the house on my own.

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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B E AU T Y

Keeping it clean

Free from s nastie

EDITOR’S BEST BEAUTY BUYS

Tired faace?

No more one-size-fits-all when it comes to skincare because this new capsule collection of say-whatyou-see masks offers a fuss-free prescription.

Choose from Period faace, Tired faace, or Sweaty faace depending on the pick-me-up you need most.

Shop at wearefaace.com

New! CBD for your skin Introducing the CBD and Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum from Grounded!

Containing powerhouse ingredient CBD, this serum is designed to diminish fine lines and wrinkles, as well as counteracting free radical damage. Available from Holland & Barrett.

Raising the beauty bar These new-gen soaps make for great facial cleansers, with minimal impact on the environment. A collection of six plasticfree, vegan, cruelty-free, recyclable, sustainable and biodegradable jobspecific beauty bars – ECO WARRIOR by the Little Soap Company has been designed to change the way we cleanse forever. From washing and exfoliating to shaving and shampooing, this is sustainable, green beauty that’s raising the bar.

Harness the power of activated charcoal Spring clean your skin with Green People’s NEW Coconut Charcoal Purifying Face Mask.

Developed to be used as part of your weekly skin maintenance routine, this indulgently luxurious mask leave skin revived and renewed with a fresh, clean scent. Available from greenpeople.co.uk

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SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

Skincare with a touch of Zen Now you can incorporate aromatherapy and mindfulness into your daily skincare routine to help balance your mind and maintain radiant skin at the same time. The Kyushi ritual is inspired by the Japanese belief in being in the moment.

We’ve been testing Kyushi’s Jasmine & Cedarwood calming nightly facial oil with great results. Not only does it help promote a great night’s sleep but leaves your skin positively glowing in the morning. Shop at kyushi.co.uk

For that polished look…

This deeply cleansing, super-fine exfoliator helps to refine, smooth and add radiance to dull or congested skin. Spherical Diatomaceous Earth exfoliates to help clear pores, lift impurities and balance uneven tone, while nourishing Rose Damascena and Shea Butter soften skin revealing a smooth and radiant complexion. Visit espaskincare.com

Beauty with added benefits Mindful Skincare Pause for few moments twice daily, place three drops of your chosen Kyushi oil into the palm of your hand, gently rub hands together and cup hands over nose and mouth. Close your eyes and take three long deep breaths, feeling the stomach rise and fall, the lungs filling then emptying completely as you deep breathe to oxygenate the body, giving cells the crucial oxygen needed to regenerate. Finally apply the oil to face, neck and chest to experience the topical and aromatherapy benefits in unison.

The Portable Pick-Me-Up New from ESPA is this Positivity Pulse Point Oil for wellness throughout the day. Lighten your senses with this fragrant oil that inspires selfconfidence and optimism.

The harmonious blend of essential oils includes the spirit-lifting aromatic of Jasmine, Gardenia and Rose Geranium to provide a burst of happiness, whilst the vibrancy of Bergamot and Sweet Orange serve as a fragrant reminder to count your blessings. Available at espaskincare.com

Try our own!

Holistic Scotland Naturals Neroli Daily Defence Moisturiser is ideal for mature skin of all types.

This anti-ageing and energising daily moisturiser contains the co-enzyme CO-Q10, which can help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Use it daily to brighten dull skin and for a brighter, more youthful glow. It’s vegan, organic and true cruelty free. Visit holisticscotland.com/shop

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B E AU T Y

Raise a glass to good health and great-looking skin!

Want to look and feel fantastic? Drink more water, writes beauty editor Karen Gider Water could be one of your best allies when it comes to natural skincare.

Although there’s no real evidence to support the theory that our skin becomes dehydrated when we don’t drink enough water, there’s no denying that sipping our way through six to eight glasses a day gives our complexion a healthy glow.

Karen

Recommends

i

Water cleans the digestive system and helps to flush out the body’s toxins – keeping us healthy on the inside and boosting our vitality on the outside.

Does it matter which water?

There are lots of companies all claiming their water is the purest and the safest – and we all have a favourite. But the best environmental option by far is to invest in a good quality water filter and enjoy Scotland’s water straight from the tap. As well as polluting our beautiful oceans, plastic water bottles are thought to contain thousands of bacteria and can seep dangerous chemicals into our waters. Glass bottles might be better but they’re still no substitute for refilling your own reusable container straight (or almost straight) from the tap.

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Zero Water Filter “I loved this and actually, it was really good fun trying out the difference between bottled and tap and comparing the components in the water. Great value!”

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

DID YOU KNOW?

The Fountain of Youth

• In 2000 B.C – Humans boiled water to make it taste better and didn’t even worry about germs and bacteria.

• Clean drinking water is still not readily available for everyone.

• The average human body is made of 50 to 65 percent water.

Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon set sail in the 16th century in search of the Fountain of Youth, whose water was thought to contain 30 different minerals with anti-ageing properties.

Tipped off by Native American Indians, he searched the ocean and discovered what he thought was the famed fountain in Florida in 1513. It’s since been made into an archaeological park in St. Augustine, but tributes reign on in the history books which talk of the magical spring thought to restore youth to anyone who drank or bathed in the water.

Water beauty - Karen’s top tips Drink a cool glass of water first thing in the morning to help you rehydrate.

After sleeping all night, you want to clear the body and refresh the mind.

You could also try a glass of hot water with lemon before bed every night, or to sip throughout the day. Lemon is a natural antibacterial agent which can help to detox the skin and clear out impurities.

Freshen your face with cold water – splashing until you feel your pores tighten. This isn’t for everyone, so be careful depending on your skin type.

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

Sip water throughout the day.

If I forget, I notice a huge difference in the condition and plumpness of my own skin. I also advise my clients to drink a full glass before and after a Face Yoga session.

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03/10/2018 11:31

E AT W E L L

BOTTLED VS TAP WATER Why plastic’s not so fantastic

By Ronnie McCluskey

Did you know 7.7 billion single-use plastic water bottles are consumed in Britain each year?

Our thirst for packaged water means the UK bottled water industry is worth an annual £2.4 billion.

The obvious downside is that single-use plastic contributes to environmental pollution, but are we better off drinking it than what comes from the tap?

Research carried out on 259 bottles of water bought in nine different countries recently found that more than 90% contained tiny plastic particles.

That means, if you drink bottled water, you’re likely to be drinking tens of thousands of these plastic particles over the course of the year.

Sadly, tap water doesn’t fare much better.

Eighty-three per cent of samples taken from more than a dozen nations have tested positive for microplastics, with 72% of European water samples contaminated.

Although we don’t yet know the impact on our health, plastics can, of course, harbour toxic chemicals and pathogens.

It’s also worth knowing that roughly twice as many individual plastic particles were found in bottled water than tap water.

Tap water, however, is bound by stricter safety regulations than bottled water and is rigorously tested for safety and quality.

It’s also less likely for chemicals and germs to find their way into tap water since there’s no handling or packaging.

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Continued over page

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E AT W E L L

BOTTLED VS TAP WATER Why plastic’s not so fantastic Although you’re unlikely to suffer serious health problems from drinking either tap or bottled water (apart from the yet unknown effects of microplastic contamination), pharmaceutical compounds; steroid hormones, such as progesterone and oestrogen, and heavy metals, such as lead from old pipework, can be present in tap water in trace amounts.

Studies show that traces of more than 300 man-made chemicals have, at one time or another, been detected in British tap water.

What’s more, fluoridation – which affects around 10% of the UK population – remains a contentious issue.

And, of course, bottled water often derives from tap water, before being treated and packaged. The rest comes from surface water or natural, mineralrich springs.

Generally speaking, both tap and bottled

water should be considered safe to drink.

But if you want to avoid microplastics and other trace contaminants, you should consider using a high-quality filter.

A comprehensive filter system will eliminate elements such as microplastics, pharmaceuticals, heavy metals, bacteria, fluoride, chlorine and chloramine.

WATER FOR HEALTH “Drinking clean, healthy water is the simplest and possibly most powerful - thing we can all do to support our health,” says Roddy MacDonald of Perthshire-based Water for Health, which specialises in alkaline water filters, superfood powders, probiotics, fish oils, sublingual supplements and other natural health products.

“With increasing concerns about trace levels of toxins being present in our water supplies, it’s more important than ever to install water filtration that will not only give high levels of purification, but also health promoting properties.”

WATER FILTERS FOR ZeroWater great SAFER HYDRATION Enjoy tasting water Energy Plus

You don’t need an expensive electronic ioniser, or a hydrogen water machine that costs thousands, to get alkaline antioxidant water.

This new water filter system developed by family-run Scottish company Water for Health means you can enjoy filtered, hydrogen-rich alkaline water straight from the tap.

Find out more at www.water-for-health.co.uk 54

with the latest advanced filter technology thanks to the ZeroWater filtration system which combines five sophisticated patented technologies that work together to remove virtually all dissolved solids from your tap water.

These are the only pour-through filters on the market certified by the NSF to reduce lead and chromium. ZeroWater filtration also reduces fluoride and other unwanted contaminants such as asbestos, plastics, pesticides, oestrogen, mercury and lead from your water.

Find out more at www.zerowater.co.uk

SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

WATER BOTTLE BEST BUYS Sip your way to good health with our tried and tested favourites.

ION8 Vacuum Flask Designed to replace single-use plastic bottles, these brightly designed stainless steel alternatives from Leakproof fit in all cup holders, bike bottle holders and rucksack side pockets and are, of course, 100% leakproof so no spills or drips. Shop at leakproof.co.uk

Quokka Ice Bottle This is everything you need and more in water bottle - attractive, leakproof, easy to clean, lightweight and BPA free! It’s double twist opening at the mouth and neck also gives you the freedom to add ice and various fruit infusions. Perfect for work, yoga or a picnic in the park. Available from Amazon.

Did you know?

It’s thought that 7.7 billion plastic water bottles are used and thrown away every year. But you can help to reduce your own carbon footprint by making small changes, such as carrying a reusable water bottle wherever you go. Not only will you reduce your own single-use plastic consumption, but you’ll stay hydrated and save money too.

ZeroWater Portable The ZeroWater Portable combines all the top-performing filtration tech of the ZeroWater filtration jug but in a convenient cup with textured easy grip lid. It means you can enjoy great tasting (and much purer) water out of your tap whether you’re at home or out and about.

Find out more at zerowater.com SPRING 2020 | HOLISTIC SCOTLAND

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COMPETITION

WIN a wild food foraging experience T

he Scottish Wild Food Festival is back for another year in 2020 and, to celebrate its return, we are offering one lucky reader the chance to win a two-hour Wild Food & Natural Remedies Walk with Lauren Lochie of Herbal Homestead.

Our winner will join Lauren, who promotes outdoor education and natural wellness, for a unique experience to:

craft workshops and wild food demonstrations; as well as learn about medicinal plants and the benefits of wild teas.

- Learn how to identify plants and fungi - Find out about plants’ traditional and medicinal uses - Sample wild ingredients and learn how to prepare them.

- Learn how to harvest local plants to make a wild pesto, foraged tea and herbal vinegar or oil

The one-day festival is one of the highlights of Foraging Fortnight, which brings together events across Forth Valley and Loch Lomond, Fife, Lanarkshire, and Moray as well as in Orkney - with new dates to be confirmed.

Lauren will also host a range of workshops and walks at The Scottish Wild Food Festival, which is funded by Forth Valley and Lomond LEADER and is set to take place at Cardross Estate for a second year.

Visitors will be able to take part in foraging walks and woodland trails; wilderness 56

To be in with a chance of winning the prize, email your name, address and telephone number, with Scottish Wild Food Festival in the subject line, to competitions@holisticscot. com by 12 noon on 30 May, 2020.

To find out more, go to foragingfortnight.co.uk/ scottish-wild-food-festival/ The prize is valid until October 2020.

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T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S

AIN’T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH

Wild meditation and gemstone foraging in the Scottish Highlands

W

hile more and more of us are turning to meditation to help calm our minds and become more mindful, Tony Jackson adopts the technique for a very different purpose. He practises wild meditation at the summit of Scotland’s mightiest Munros to open his inner vision…

For nearly 35 years, I have been studying the subtle anatomy of man, through all manner of subjects and throughout this time I have gradually developed my own meditative practice. I don’t usually do it in any urban environment.

Instead I prefer meditating in the great outdoors. I will happily hike for miles into the mountains and make my way to the summit of a Munro. There I will sit in as comfortable position as I can arrange with the right clothing and my back to the wind, I enter within.

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AIN’T NO MOUNTAIN HIGH ENOUGH “We all think – we have a mind or mental body, we all feel – we have an emotional body.”

I choose wild and remote locations because in such places there is no ‘thought pollution’; I can hold the same thought for ages on a mountain or faraway beach. In a town or city, with so many people present this task is far more difficult. A mountain atmosphere is far purer.

It’s an unchanged natural environment and the subtle nature of such places is simply extraordinary.

We all live in a multi-dimensional reality; we all have inner vehicles - subtle bodies, we all use these every second of our lives. Yet for the most part, most people are completely oblivious to the inner reality of their being.

We all think – we have a mind or mental body, we all feel – we have an emotional body. We all have chakras, the frequently misunderstood subtle energy centres that allow passage of many different human energies from one level to another within us, manifesting as change in the health or ill health of our outer physical body.

Yet this knowledge is kept hidden from society – by society. There is so much more to learn and understand about us 58

through studying our inner nature; go within and you won’t go without.

About 25 years ago, I became aware of a ‘current’ of subtle energy which would seem to ‘ripple’ across my chest in a constant direction upwards.

I would see it whether my eyes were open or closed, whether I was meditating or not. Nobody else could see it. I couldn’t understand what it was. I found no reference to it in any books at the time.

It wasn’t until 2003 that I managed to identify it. My then wife and I undertook pioneering research into energetic healing using crystals and minerals. She was acutely clairvoyant and could see all subtle energies both within and around the human body and all crystals and stones and we uncovered something that we then called the ‘psychic energy system’; a closed energy circuit that seemed to travel up, interweaving around the chakras and then descending back down again. It performs a very special function in us and I now understand it to be Kundalini. Every time I meditate now, I see my Kundalini channel.

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Gemstone foraging Tony also has a passion for hunting Scottish gemstones, such as Aquamarine, Topaz and Sapphire…

In July 2017 I was eight miles from my car on a remote mountain, high up in Cairngorms and had been searching all day; I’d found nothing. I decided to sit and meditate for a while. I closed off my outer senses and entered within. Within a few minutes my vision opened and I could see all the beautiful subtle energy streams flowing all around me, through the air, through the ground and through me. I also began to sense the Mountain Deva.

Every Munro is 3,000’ or more in height and standing atop each one is a colossal Deva a further 1000’ in stature like a great sentinel, overseeing all the processes of Nature in its domain. It instantly became aware of my attention. We engaged with one another and offered each other spiritual respect. We were two beings in two different evolutionary kingdoms but we were, albeit briefly, connected.

These Devas have very few interactions with human beings; because people are generally ‘asleep’ and have no awareness of them. I remember asking for some help in finding the crystals I was searching for. The wind brought my consciousness back to my physical body and I was again, sitting on the mountain once more.

I got up on my feet and continued my searching. Within 10 minutes I found my first Aquamarine crystal. I had been searching on and off for 25 years for it and here it was in my hand. I turned to the Deva and offered my thanks and appreciation. I found two more that afternoon. Since then, I have returned several times to the same Munro and have meditated on the summit in the same place and engaged with my Great Friend. I have many times watched the energies there and felt so fulfilled to return home and back to work again the following day.

Tony Jackson is the author of The Element of Harmony crystal healing book and now runs the Wild Scotland Meditation Facebook group for people who would like to meet and further explore meditation and self-development in the wild.

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T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S

Argyll A breath of fresh air

W

ith its stark and rugged coastline and open waters, rural Argyll has become something of a go-to location for outdoor adventurers and thrill-seekers alike.

Much of its harsh Highland landscape remains untouched – harking back to a more primitive Scotland, as if frozen in time.

Its deep valleys cradle tidal lochs surrounded by jagged hills and mountains which are carpeted, in places, by heather and shrub.

The green slopes are punctuated by freshwater streams and waterfalls, with the odd sheep or Highland cow.

The views are breath-taking and the sharp wind exhilarating. The weather is unpredictable, to say the least.

Walking or hiking here really gives you the sense of being against the elements. But the biting wind leaves you revitalised and positively glowing.

There’s certainly plenty to do, whether it’s kayaking, sailing, bagging one of the mighty Munros, or pitching up your tent for Scotland’s only solar-powered outdoor festival this September to practise with fellow yogis on the banks of Loch Fyne.

Whatever you class as outdoor adventure, it’s easy to find your freedom here. The air really doesn’t get much fresher.

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Argyll Aird’s Hotel & Restaurant Scottish Luxury Hotel of the Year 2020

Where to stay Lynda Hamilton Parker checked into Aird’s Hotel & Restaurant – a luxury home from home in the heart of Port Appin

Nestled beside Loch Linnhe in the coastal village of Port Appin (20 miles north of Oban) is Aird’s Hotel & Restaurant – recently crowned Scottish Luxury Hotel of the Year 2020.

Still family-owned and run, the boutique hotel with its charming whitewashed fascia was a welcome sight after our 3.5-hour drive from Fife in extreme winds.

There had been an Amber weather warning in place for the West Coast but, being two adventurous souls, my husband and I set off with our two young boys anyway.

The weather on the drive up wasn’t all that bad, but we were keen to get a heat and out of the driving rain which had been constant since we left Perth.

By the time we arrived, it was blowing a gale, but the hotel team soon came to our rescue to help with our luggage. The hotel manager welcomed us personally and seated us by the roaring fire in the hotel lounge.

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The décor may have epitomised Highland luxury, but the ambience simulated a cosy home from home and we couldn’t have received a warmer welcome.

This hospitality continued throughout our stay, from the complimentary chocolates, basket of fruit, and decanter of Whisky Mac (a traditional local drink taken by the fishermen while out at sea) prepared in our suite for our arrival, to the outstanding dinner service from manager Robert McKay and his young protégé in the hotel’s candlelit conservatory overlooking the loch and lighthouse.

There was plenty of local seafood on the menu, ranging from mussels and langoustine to salmon and stonebass, and of course vegan and vegetarian options too.

We were very well catered for and even enjoyed complimentary tea and pastries in the comfort of our own suite prior to breakfast.

While we were there, the weather took a turn for the worse, but we still managed to walk the Port Appin loop and explore its two ancient caves.

We plan to return in the Summer (without the kids) to explore the loch and its native wildlife a little further.

There’s no end of things to do, from navigating the area’s scenic cycle paths, to kayaking, sailing and boat trips to explore the area’s castle ruins or spot the local birds, otters and seals.

The hotel even offers in-room therapies and treatments, such as Traditional Chinese and Japanese Acupressure, Reflexology and Esui Reiki.

Prices for an overnight stay at Airds Hotel & Restaurant, which has also previously been named Best Fine-Dining restaurant on the West Coast of Scotland and the Most Romantic Hotel in the UK, start from £325 per night based on a double room with two people sharing and includes breakfast, dinner and VAT. Seasonal packages are also available. For more information, including reopening dates, visit www.airds-hotel.com, call 01631 730236 or email airds@airds-hotel.com

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Argyll’s zerowaste festival Now a firm feature in the Scottish festival calendar, Scapa Fest is set to take place for a third year this 4-6 September on the banks of Loch Fyne.

Not only is Scapa Fest Scotland’s first zero-waste, leave-no-trace, yoga, outdoor education and adventure festival, this year it will become the country’s first ever solar-powered outdoor festival.

The three-day event, which takes place within the idyllic Ardkinglas Estate, was created to promote mindful living as part of an all-encompassing experience, which gives festival goers the chance to learn from world class experts and influencers in yoga; mind-body health; outdoor education, and environmental action.

It encourages a totally different way of living and thinking to leave people feeling refreshed and inspired.

This year’s line-up includes environmental activist Rob Greenfield, who has just chalked up a year of living entirely on selfforaged food, and Jambo Truong, a Forrest Yoga Guardian and co-founder of Yoga Bodyworkers.

There will also be plenty of yoga and meditation, woodwork, water sports, traditional crafts, herbal medicine, film screenings and foraging walks for all ages and abilities.

And, as the sun sets in the evenings over Loch Fyne, everyone is invited to gather for a ceilidh – a truly magical experience by the light of the fire.

Find out more at scapafest.com

Pic credits: Arcantide

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T H E G R E AT O U T D O O R S

Fire & Rain AFTER THE STORM

David and Ute

W

hen Ute AmannSeidel’s partner, David, proposed to her at the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, she couldn’t have been happier.

Her retreats not only focus on self-care, connection and a sense of community, but on solitude and time to reflect.

Then, just four weeks later, she was dealt a devastating blow. David, who was otherwise well, had an asthma attack and was taken to hospital.

While Ute hosts cookery workshops, yoga classes and walks in nature, these are purely optional and there’s no formal therapy or requirement to talk here whatsoever.

Sadly, he passed away before Ute could get to him.

They were both 50.

“Grief is chaos. Crippling and unpredictable, it doesn’t follow any pattern,” says Ute.

She didn’t even get to say goodbye.

“It’s deeply personal and different for everyone. You can’t run away from it; it will always catch up with you.

“My world fell apart from one second to the other,” says Ute. “It felt as if a large part of me had died with him and I could barely function.

“Many things lost their meaning. Others – like being in nature and reading helpful words – became lifesavers.”

“But it can sometimes feel good to fully lean into the pain as you connect to the love you share with the person you lost.”

Ute’s loss inspired her to create Fire & Rain Soul Spa – offering small group retreat holidays for widows and widowers in feel-good locations around Scotland.

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“…being in nature and reading helpful words – became lifesavers”

Scotland’s free natural health and wellbeing and more mindful living magazine.

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advertising@holisticscot.com

Not only have Fire & Rain’s retreats helped many guests to process their grief, they’ve helped Ute too.

“After about 18 months, I was walking along the canal and realised I didn’t want to die anymore. One day, but not yet.

“Instead, I want to make every day until I see him again as meaningful as possible.

“The pain hasn’t become any less and I still miss David every moment of the day.

“I don’t want it any other way.

I don’t want to move on, but forward.”

Fire & Rain Soul Spa is a finalist in the Outstanding Innovation category of the Holistic Scotland Magazine Wellbeing Awards 2020.

Find out more at fireandrain.scot

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