FACING ADDICTION AND MENTAL HEALTH
IRD Duhallow Hosts Informative Talk On Addiction
On Tuesday the 28th, the James O Keeffe Institute in Newmarket was abuzz with discussions, insights, and inspiration as the community gathered for the Addiction and Mental Health Awareness Event organised by IRD Duhallow. The event aimed to shed light on the critical issues surrounding addiction and mental health, providing valuable information and fostering understanding. The event featured an esteemed panel of experts who shared their experiences, expertise, and
personal stories. Events like these play a crucial role in raising awareness. By understanding addiction and mental health, we can better support those affected and reduce stigma. There are resources available, and no one needs to face these challenges alone. Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to this meaningful event.
1st-5th July Little Chefs and Artists
8th-12th July Nature Detectives
15th-19th July Whizz Kids
22nd-26th July Nature Camp
29th July-2nd August Little Chefs and Artists
6th-9th August Whizz Kids m to 1pm k ed which 57 or less!
LITTLE CHEFS AND ARTISTS CHILDREN ENJOY BAKING AND COOKING THINGS FROM START TO FINISH AND A VARIETY OF ARTS AND CRAFTS.
NATURE DETECTIVES WE SPEND MAJORITY OF THE DAY OUTSIDE EXPLORING AND APPRECIATING OUR NATURAL SURROUNDINGS ACTIVITIES INCLUDE FINDING INVERTEBRATES AND OTHER LIFE IN THE RIVER, NATURE HUNTS ETC.
School Aged
LACE
WHIZZ KIDS IS ALL ABOUT SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS AND COMPUTERS; THE CHILDREN WORK IN SMALL GROUPS TO RESEARCH AND DECIDE ON A FINAL EXPERIMENT THAT THEY WILL CARRY OUT AT THE END OF THE WEEK; THEY PREPARE A POWERPOINT PRESENTATION ON THEIR EXPERIMENT OF CHOICE AND PRESENT IT TO THE GROUP WE WILL HAVE A LITERACY TEACHER DOING ACTIVITIES WITH THE CHILDREN ALSO AND SOME TTRS (TOUCH TYPE READ SPELL) ON THE COMPUTERS. THIS CAMP WOULD BE BENEFICIAL FOR CHILDREN WITH DYSLEXIA OR READING DIFFICULTIES DUE TO THE LITERACY AND TTRS ACTIVITIES
CAMPS ARE SUITABLE FOR ALL PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN
Editors Note
As the vibrant month of Bealtaine draws to a close, we reflect on the changing seasons and the promise of summer. In this issue, we bring you a range of topics that touch upon our local community. We are gearing up for the local elections as candidates prepare to compete for seats. Amidst the politics let us not forget spiritual milestones. Families gather to celebrate First Holy Communion - a rite of passage for our young ones. Their faith reminds us of the bonds that tie our community together. Our local heritage takes center stage with Liscarroll NS Ball Wall. This initiative not only enhances our school grounds but also preserves our cultural legacy. We also delve into the world of holistic well-being with Craniosacral therapy.
Want to send us something? The next issue of Discover Duhallow releases on June 14th!
Email: Discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com
Phone: 029-60633
Facebook: Discover Duhallow Magazine
Instagram: Discoverduhallowmag
Have you been thinking about joining a group, getting some more exercise, and meeting new peoplewell now is your chance!!!
IRD Duhallow Walking and Social Group meet every Monday at 12pm and every Wednesday at 11am at the Island Wood in Newmarket.
All fitness levels welcome, 30 min and 60 min walks - this is an opportunity to meet people, enjoy the fresh air and increase your step count!!!
To register or for further info please contact Elmarie Young 029 -60633 or email Elmarie.young@irdduhallow. com.
LEFT: IRD Duhallow’s Walking and Social Club participated in Darkness into Light Kanturk and raised €155
Mallow Adult Learning Centre.
Do you need help with reading, writing, spelling and numeracy?
Do you know someone that needs help? If so, we can help
Monday - Thursday 9.30am - 1.30pm Friday 9am – 12.00pm
Top floor, Parish centre, Mallow
Contact the adult learning centre for more information. 022 42642
Duhallow Choral Sings Kanturk Hospitals Praises
On the 12th of May, Duhallow Choral Society had the pleasure of presenting a cheque for €3,210 to Ber Goggin and Mary O’Connor of Kanturk Community Hospital. The funds were raised from their concert on the 2nd of April. Thanks to everyone who supported and contributed to this worthy cause. To date, Duhallow Choral Society has raised over €500,000 for local charities.
"If I can assist you in any way, contact me"
Bealtaine Arts & Crafts at Millstreet Library: A Celebration of Creativity and Camaraderie
For Bealtaine, Millstreet Library hosted an Arts & Crafts workshop. The library buzzed with creativity and camaraderie. The arts & crafts workshop was led by Amanda Wright who focuses on the intricate art of macrame. The ladies who participated immersed themselves in the project, creating beautiful and unique creations. Under Amanda’s expert guidance, attendees not only learned the delicate techniques of this age-old craft but also enjoyed a fulfilling and joyous experience. The workshop served as a testament to the community spirit of Bealtaine, bringing people together to celebrate creativity and craftsmanship. In addition, Millstreet Library’s Knit & Natter group received a heartwarming surprise and were thrilled to receive handmade crocheted blankets from Millstreet Community School Transition Year Students along with their teacher Jennifer O’Donoghue. It is inspiring to see different generations coming together, sharing skills, and spreading warmth. Here’s to more moments of intergenerational joy.
Banteer Endure Further Water Outage Issues
Another water outage occurred in the Banteer area on Friday 17th May which is unacceptable with at least 6 water outages now in as many months.
Banteer and other areas supplied from the Poulgorm pumped station need a short term plan for a water supply that is available 24/7 to schools, businesses, childcare centres, businesses, farmers, and householders who are depending on same with some of these having to close if water is not available. The long term plan is for a new reservoir system to be installed by Irish Water in 2027 at the very earliest.
A new 6 inch rising main was installed in 2023 from Banteer to the Derry Reservoir with the intention of pumping water to the Derry reservoir, and a new 4 inch distribution main was installed also from the Derry Reservoir to supply Banteer and Duinch, Gouganes. This would allow the Derry Reservoir to be used as back up supply. However a new pump needed for this just above Banteer on the Nadd road has not been installed yet. It was due to be installed in Aug 2023 and is now over 9 months late.
This pump installation would make 8000 gallons of reservoir capacity available which would provide some back up for a short duration only.
Other options that should be pursued now by Irish Water are:
• Connect Banteer and other areas to the Ballinatona water supply permanently
• Provide 24/7 curator cover at the Poulgorm pumped station which will ensure that any trips and problems with pumps etc are dealt with straight away
• Provide a storage of bottled water at location/s convenient to all users to use in the event of a water outage
• Install additional temporary reservoir capacity at the Derry Reservoir
This issue will be discussed at the next Community Council meeting
Railway Nears Completion
The major construction project at Banteer Railway station will soon be coming to an end and will be of major benefit to all users of Banteer station.
Thanks to Irish Rail and Jons contractors who have worked closely with local stakeholders in ensuring the project progressed with minimum delays and issues.
Irish Rail and Jons expressed their thanks to all neighbours and the local community for their help and co-operation.
Irish Rail has also sanctioned the surfacing of the laneway at the rear of the railway station, adjoining the Sportsfield area. This will comprise the preparation of the existing surface and the application of a double surface dressing layer(tar and chippings) as a wearing course. Jons Civil Engineering will arrange for this work to be carried out. The local Community Council and Banteer Tidy Towns are also working with Irish Rail on other improvements at the railway to make a safer exit using one way system, additional parking at the Station and painting etc of fencing.
Banteer Sportsfield Draw
Banteer Sportsfield/Park draw is now on for 2024! This annual draw is for the ongoing operation, maintenance and development of the facility. Tickets are available from members. Please support as your support helps us make it better for all users.
Plans for this year include:
• subject to Sports capital funding, upgrade of old dressing rooms,
• goal posts replacement
• sanding/aeration works
• planting of trees /shrubs
• boot washes
• café equipment
• solar PV
• And more The regular annual operation and maintenance works are very important to maintain the facility to the highest level. These costs are now approx €40k p.a + which are funded by our annual draw. First draw is planned for end of May.
Text Alert Money Due For 2024
Please pay to your local Community Council members.
Note: nonpayment will mean you will no longer get Comm Alert texts. Please forward €10 to Norah O’Riordan Nadd, Eleanor Duggan, Denis Withers, Mary Cahill, or John Buckley
Duhallow News
Cill Mhín Kiskeam Dance Their Way To Munster Fleadh In July
Well done to the Cill Mhín Kiskeam junior and senior Set Dancers and Conor Herlihy in the Sean Nós competition, who qualified for the Munster Fleadh in Dunmanway. Best of luck to them in Tipperary in July!
ABOVE
BOTTOM LEFT:
Senior Mixed Set: Shane O Riordan, Gavin Daly, Micheal Cronin, Adam O Connor. Elisha Daly, Ellen Daly, Aoife O Riordan and Celine Kelleher.
What’s On In Duhallow
Edel Quinn Hall, Kanturk
Monday
Foróige
7.30-9pm
Ages of 12-17yrs. Time: Every Friday Morning 10:30am-12:00am
Tuesday
Social Dancing With Dan
8-10pm All Welcome!
Wednesday
Taekwondo
6-8pm All Welcome!
Temperence Hall, Kanturk
Tuesday
Kanturk and District Trout Angling and Fly Fishing Club
7-9pm
New Members Welcome!
First Wednesday of the Month Kanturk Flower Club 8pm
Monday, Tuesday, Friday
Yoga - Assorted times
Please contact Simon on 0873379121 for further information.
Newmarket Knitting and Crochet Group
Venue: CYMS Hall, Newmarket
Time: Every Friday Morning 10:30am-12:00am
The groups chosen charity is providing blankets to The Blankets of Hope Cork. Further Information from Rita 086209745
Tureencahill Summer Bridge
Venue: Tureencahill Community Centre, P51T663
Time: Every Wednesday Afternoon at 1:00pm
Friendly, non competitive, cup of tea. All welcome.
Contact: 0876476536
CYMS Hall Dancing
Venue: CYMS Hall Newmarket, P52 V596
Admission: €10
Time: 9:00 - 11:30pm
Organised by John Joe Dances 087 9735113
May
Friday 31st
Jer Healy The Singing Jarvey
Freemount Social Dancing
Venue: Freemount Community Center, P56 P893
Admission: €10
Time: Sundays 3:00pm-5:30pm
June
Sunday 2nd
Michael Collins
Sunday 9th
Glen Flynn Sunday 16th
Declan Aungier
An Cultúrlann, Newmarket
Friday May 31st
First of the Summer Wine. Wine Tasting Event. 7.30pm - 10pm Details Jonty on 087 66000 18
June
Thursday 6th
Alzheimers' Cafe. 11am - 1pm
Saturday 8th
Morty's Rambling House. Music stories and chat. 8pm
Sunday 9th 8pm
Fifteen
A nostalgic trawl through the 80s. An evening of musical theatre. €10
Saturday June 15th 8pm
AFRO-Trad concert with Tim O' Shea and guests
Kanturk Fitness Classes
Venue: USA stores, Greenane Street, Kanturk
Mondays
9.30am: Beginners fitness
6pm: Boxercise
Tuesday
9am: Legs, Bums, and Tums
6pm: Dance Fitness
Wednesday
6pm: Dance Fitness
Friday
9.30am: Circuits
€10 pay as you go or 6 classes for €50
Message Deirdre O’Sullivan or text 087 9273672 for details/ bookings.
Aubane Set Dancing
Venue: Aubane Community Centre P51 EP49
Time: Mondays 9:15pm
Mass Dates for Your Diary
June 5th 8pm
Mass in Gneeveguilla Cemetery
June 7th 8pm
Mass in Shrone Cemetery
June 10th 7.30pm
Mass in Drishane Cemetery
June 10th 8pm
Mass in Rathmore Cemetery
June 17th 8pm
Mass in Old Chapel Cemetery
June 21st 7.30pm
Mass on Token Fire Mountain.
2024’S First Holy Communions Continue Throughout Duhallow
ABOVE
Duhallow News
An Overview of the 2024
By NOLLAIG MURPHY Development Officer, IRD DuhallowLocal elections take place every five years in Ireland, the purpose of which is to elect Councillors to our Local Authorities. The Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage oversees the operation of the local government system, providing the policy framework within which local authorities work and deliver services to the communities that they represent and serve.
This year’s local elections will take place on Friday, 7th of June 2024, by order of the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Mr Darragh O’Brien TD. Polling will take place at polling stations across the country between 7am and 10pm. Elections to the European Parliament will also be held on the same day. Voters will therefore be presented with two ballot papers, one for the election of County Council members and the other for the election of members of the European Parliament.
The local elections in a national context:
There are 31 local authorities in Ireland, with 26 of these being county councils. Three of the local authorities are city councils – Cork, Dublin and Galway. There are also 2 City and County councils – Limerick and Waterford. At present, there are 949 councillors across the 31 local authorities in Ireland. The primary purpose of the Elected Members is to develop and implement policy for the range of services delivered by the local authority. Councillors have a mandate to make policy and represent the public. However, the Chief Executive of the Council and the Management Team
members are tasked with day to day running of the organisation and implementing the policy decisions of the elected Council.
What voting process is used in Irish Elections?
When you vote in an election in Ireland, you are asked to give your vote in order of preference. This is because Ireland uses an electoral system called proportional representation with a single transferable vote (PR–STV, or PR for short). This system is used for voting in General, Local, European, Presidential and Mayoral elections. However, it is not used for referendums. By using this system, a voter can vote for as many or as few election candidates as they wish, which gives a wider variety of choice. Voters cast their votes in order of preference, however only one preference in your vote is active at a time. The vote stays with your first preference candidate unless they do not need it anymore - either because they have been elected and your vote has become one of their surplus votes or the candidate has been excluded from the count. If your vote is transferred, it passes to your next highest preference for a candidate still in the running. Your vote could transfer a number of times at the same election to your lower preference candidates.
What is the role of a Councillor?
Councillors make decisions about the operation of the local authority and the services it provides. They have a legislative role and an advocacy role within the local authorities. The role of a councillor is busy, varied and comes with a lot of responsibility. Councillors play an important role in the development of policies and the making of decisions about issues
that impact their local community, in diverse areas such as housing, planning and environmental protection. They are also responsible for the governance and oversight of the Council, which includes ensuring the proper operation of the local authority and the making of critical decisions about budgets.
How many seats are to be filled in Cork and Kerry County Councils?
55 seats are to be filled within Cork County Council and 33 seats are to be filled within Kerry County Council.
How many candidates are running for election in Cork and Kerry County Councils?
A total of 122 candidates have been officially nominated to stand in the upcoming elections for Cork County Council, and 77 candidates have been nominated in the Kerry County Council elections.
Why is it important to vote?
According to the Electoral Commission, ‘Not voting is giving up your voice - Elections are decided by the people who go out and vote’. Councillors have an important role in overseeing the activities of the local authority and ensuring that it operates effectively. As local authorities operate in a complex environment and interact with a wide range of stakeholders, it is essential that there is a strong governance structure in place that ensures they function properly. Importantly, Councillors identify problems and track local issues and bring this knowledge back into the Council chamber to ensure better outcomes for the well-being and quality of life of the people and communities they represent.
Duhallow News
2024 Local Elections
Cork County Council: Kanturk Local Electoral Area (4 seats)
Candidate
Political party, if any:
Bradley, Ted Green Party/Comhaontas
Glas
Cronin, Finbarr Non-Party
Doyle, Ian Fianna Fáil
Kealy, Becky Aontú
Moynihan, Bernard Fianna Fáil
Murphy, Trish Fine Gael
O’Connor, Brendan Independent Ireland
O’Keeffe, Evelyn Sinn Fein
O’Shea, John Paul Fine Gael
Ring, Andrew Social Democrats
Cork County Council: Macroom Local Electoral Area (6 seats)
Candidate
Political party, if any:
Burgess, Harriet Green Party/Comhaontas Glas
Coughlan, Martin Non-Party
Creed, Michael Fine Gael
Kelleher, Dermot Independent Ireland
Looney, Michael Fianna Fáil
Lucey, Ted Fine Gael
Lynch, Eileen Fine Gael
Moynihan, Gobnait Fianna Fáil
O’Leary, Rosarie Aontú
O’Sullivan, John Sinn Féin
Kerry County Council: Castleisland Local Electoral Area (4 Seats)
Fitzgerald, Fionán Fianna Fáil
Bell, Deirdre Sinn Féin
Bowler, Paul Green Party
Farrelly, Charlie Non-Party
Fitzgerald, Fionán Fianna Fáil
Healy-Rae, Jackie Non-Party
Keane, Michelle Non-Party
Ni Riordáin, Cáit Aontú
O’Connell, Bobby Fine Gael
Mallow Local Electoral Area (5 seats)
Candidate Political party, if any:
Cannon, Ross The Irish People
Curry, David Social Democrats
Hayes, Pat Fianna Fáil
Kenny, Eoghan The Labour Party
Madden, Liam Fine Gael
McNally, Paul Green Party/Comhaontas Glas
Murphy, Gearóid Fianna Fáil
O’Brien, Melissa Sinn Féin
O’Shea, Tony Fine Gael
Scully, Paddy Aontú
Kerry County Council: Killarney Local Electoral Area (7 Seats)
Candidate Political party, if any
Abdul Kadir, Kamaruzzaman Non-Party
Cronin, Brendan Non-Party
Grady, Martin Non-Party
Healy, Dermot Fine Gael
Healy-Rae, Maura Non-Party
Kelleher, Niall Fianna Fáil
Kenneally, Caroline Sinn Féin
Krasnenkova, Natalia Non-Party
Leen, William Non-Party
Mahmud, Iqbal Non-Party
McGuckin, Diarmuid Non-Party
Moloney, Marie Labour
O’Callaghan, Niall Botty Non-Party
O’Connor, Alan The Irish People
O’Donoghue, John Kerry Independent Alliance
Switzer, Damien Sinn Féin
This year’s local elections will take place on Friday, 7th of June
Exam Season is Upon Us
By ALICE O’BRIEN Alice O’Brien Counselling, NewmarketIt’s that time of year again; the sun is out, the skies are blue, and the sound of neighbourhood children playing goes on long into the evening. Lawnmowers are running and weeds are being pulled. All very carefree and easy. Unless there are exams in your household. The atmosphere is less sunny in the home of the exam student, with Mothers - and the occasional Father - stressed, tense, and overly using gentle encouragement to study. It might not be researched based information, but it is a proven fact that parental stress of exams is far greater than that of the stress for
the student themselves.
Study plans, curriculum’s, and teacher encouragement as well as many grinds can all help students to manage their stress. No such services are available for the mammies who rely on minimal information and a series of grunts.
So here is a few pieces of advice to get the parents though the exam season:
• Try to remain calm, especially when talking to your student. Children, even the older ones sense the stress and react with hostility at times. So, work on your stress techniques, get out for a walk or do some gardening.
• Keep focus on the here and now- try not the think too far ahead. Right now your
household is only preparing for exam, there is no need to focus on points or results- that will all work out in time.
• If you need to feel useful then work on practical things. Make sure there is enough food in the fridge, meals are regular and nutritious and sleep patterns are maintained.
• Keep it real- do not allow catastrophic thinking to creep in. It is a set of exams, it signifies the end of schooling but it does not define them as a person. They will make you proud in many ways during there life that will have nothing to do with exams.
So, keep calm and carry on takes on a whole new meaning from now until the end of June.
Boosting Brain Health
By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE New Leaf Health StoreAs we age our brains undergo natural changes; for example it’s quite normal to experience mild memory loss. We can proactively work towards better brain health to slow down the aging process.
Regular exercise and a healthy diet are really important for your overall health but also for your brain. Exercise not just your body, but your brain too. Reading, doing puzzles, playing music and other mentally stimulating exercises will help keep your brain functioning well.
Our nutrition is also really important. B vitamins support brain function as we age. In our diets,
we get B vitamins from protein, green leafy vegetables and some peas and beans. To be sure that you are getting enough from your diet, you can supplement with a good quality B complex. Terranova’s B Complex with Vitamin C and Biocare’s Methyl B Complex are “Methylated” B complexes. Methylated vitamin B supplements are more bioavailable and easy for the body to absorb. Fish oils are great for brain health, but very few of us eat the recommended amount of oily fish in our diets. There are omega oils for vegetarians which are seed based like Testa. For those who eat fish, the Wild Atlantic Omega 3 from anchovies is a great option. It has added D3 and Astaxanthin, a super-antioxidant and lecithin,
which helps get DHA into the brain. If you are concerned about your cognitive function, then adding MCT oil into your diet has been shown in studies to help to slow the decline. One Nutrition Pure MCT oil can be added to coffee, shakes, dressings, and smoothies. The Irish Company FabU has a great supplement called Brain Focus which has 7 active ingredients tailored for your brain, focus and mental performance. Its main ingredient is the edible mushroom, Lions Mane. Many studies have found that Lions Mane improves memory and cognitive function, provided it’s taken consistently. Research specifically with Alzheimer patients has suggested that it improved their brain function.
All Ireland Champions
Huge congratulations to our dynamic duo Edel Reen and Christine Moynihan who were on the winning team along with Adrianne Lynch and Jacqueline Breen, and won the All Ireland Championship Ladies Shield in Pool at the Gleneagle hotel. It is a fantastic achievement to see women in pool go from strength to strength. Well done!
Knocknagree - Kenya:
A clothes collection in aid of Fr. Sean Cremin’s Missionary work will take place on Tuesday 4th / Wednesday 5th June from 7pm –9pm.
Drop off point: Rathmore Community Centre.
Contact Breeda: 087 2974431. Nuala: 086 3906434 Mary: 086 05560609. No Duvets or Pillows accepted. Wishing Fr Sean a speedy recovery.
Congratulations to Thomas O'Sullivan on his Silver Team All Ireland Community Games Medal with his Kerry Under 13 Cross Country Team at the National Community Games Finals held in Gormanstown Co. Meath!
Duhallow News
Share The Bucket Gneeveguilla Community Facility Group reminds you that Share the Bucket takes place weekly. The draw is every Friday evening in Teach Fáilte @8.30 pm and can be viewed live on our Gneeveguilla Community Facility Group Facebook Page. This week’s jackpot was €210 and the winner was Shane Dillane.
To celebrate the Bank Holiday Weekend we are going to have an EXTRA DRAW for €100
Tickets cost €2 each or 3 for €5. They are available at Teach Fáilte and can be bought online at https://tinyurl.com/y2ade5om or in local businesses where you see the Green Share the bucket.
Your support is greatly supported and all funds will go towards our new proposed community facility. We would like to thank our local businesses, shops and pubs who continue to support our project.
An Cultúrlann
There will be a fun discussion of each wine as Guy Boursot takes you through their background in an enjoyable and unpretentious way! Guy and his colleague, John Passmore, a South African wine expert, will also talk about the latest news and trends. Tickets are €40 per person on https://ticketstop.live/events/209
A NEW VOICE CRONIN FINBARR
We are Hiring
Afterschool Assistant Vacancy
Afterschool assistant needed at Tir na nOg Ballydesmond from September 2024 for 20 hours per week term-time only. No experience is necessary but an interest in caring for children is a requirement. The ideal candidate must be reliable, warm, motivated, fun, and enthusiastic.
Please email the cover letter/curriculum vitae to tirnanogballydesmond@gmail.com
Early Years Educator Vacancy
Due to expanding our team at Tir na nOg Ballydesmond, we are seeking to recruit an Early Years Educator to join our team. The ideal candidate will hold a minimum Level 5 childcare qualification and have fluent English. The ideal candidate must be warm, energetic, enthusiastic, and able to work in a busy environment. If this sounds like you, please email a cover letter and a curriculum vitae to tirnanogballydesmond@gmail.com
Duhallow News
Feis Laitiarain
Cuilin Uí Chaoimh
Venue: Cullen GAA Pitch, p51 E891
When: Sunday 2nd June, 12pm
Competitions:
• Singing
• Ballad Groups & Poetry (gaeilge agus Béarla),
• Music (solos/duets/trios/ bands),
• sports
Age Groups:
• Faoi 8
• 8-10
• 10-12
• 12-14
• Ós cionn 14
Concert followed by Seisiúín in Fleming’s Pub Cullen
For more info, contact: 086 2173796 087 32316298
What Is Craniosacral Therapy?
By GEORGE RICKARDCraniosacral & Massage Therapist
George
RickardCST-T is fully insured and a registered therapist with the IACST -Irish Association of the Craniosacral Therapists
#1196, and as a Holistic and Sports Massage Therapist with IMTA Irish Massage Therapist Association #2658.
“IN 2005, I was a qualified Holistic Massage and Sports Massage therapist. I was set to go down the route of becoming a physical therapist, but I realised I wanted to work with clients on a deeper level, working with more aspects of the person besides just physical issues. It is these other issues, such as emotional stress stored in the body, that often cause problematic physical symptoms.
I was lucky to have craniosacral therapists among my massage clients, and they opened my eyes to other, more holistic ways of working with the body.
In 2008, I took my first course in CST. I also did other bodywork courses including shiatsu, Indian head massage, and sound healing, but CST is the one that I have always resonated with the most.
After taking time out from the training to have a family, I returned to complete my CST qualification last year with Upledger Ireland and am now a fully registered member of IACST (Irish association Craniosacral therapy)
What is Craniosacral Therapy (CST)?
Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a hands-on, light touch therapy that enhances the body’s natural capacity for healing. It uses the weight of a 5-cent coin (5 grams) on the head and lower back to assess and treat the craniosacral system.
The craniosacral system consists of the membranes and fluid that surround and support the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the head (cranium) down to the bones at the base of the spine (sacrum), hence its name. The system is intricately connected with the rest of the body. Therefore, by gently creating changes in the craniosacral system, the entire body can selfcorrect.
Craniosacral work is frequently used in the treatment of the following conditions:
• Chronic pain
• Neck and back trauma and pain
• Whiplash and head Injuries
• Post-concussion syndrome
• Post-surgical recovery
• Headaches and migraines
• TMJ and chronic facial pain
• Ear and sinus problems
• Sciatica
• Trigeminal Neuralgia
• Post-viral syndromes/long covid
• Problems with breathing and swallowing
• Autonomic nervous system dysfunction
• Chronic stress
• Anxiety and depression
• Insomnia
• Emotional trauma and prolonged grief
• Acute stress, injury, and trauma
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• CNS/Neurological disorders
• Learning disabilities and ADHD
• Birth trauma
• Infant/paediatric conditions
• Fibromyalgia and rheumatic pain
What to expect from a treatment?
Treatments last for 50 minutes, and for the first session, a questionnaire with health considerations is completed.
The session is performed with the client lying on a treatment table with shoes off while the Craniosacral Therapist sits working at the client’s head, middle torso, and/or feet.
Experiences during a CST session are as individual as the clients and therapists themselves. Experiences may vary from session to session. At times, a client may fall asleep, may
recall memories, will experience sensations within the body such as tingling, hot/cold, pins and needles, pulsations, a stretching of tissues in particular parts of the body, increased fluid flow, or energy flow.
At various times, the client may need to move arms or legs as a normal part of the process. This can be facilitated by the therapist.
Clients may also experience an emotional release, tears, or even laughter.
The treatment is deeply relaxing and promotes improved functioning of the craniosacral system and, by extension, related
Duhallow News
systems in the body, including musculoskeletal, immune, respiratory and endocrine systems.
Contraindications for CST:
• Recent Head Trauma
• Skull Fracture
• Acute Stroke
• Cerebral Aneurysm
• Or any other condition in which fluid pressure changes within the skull could prove detrimental.
These will all be covered in the Medical History Section with your first session. I will refer you back to your Medical Practitioner should
there be any cause for concern.
How many sessions will I need? The number of sessions required depends entirely on the condition being treated. Acute injury and disease states can benefit enormously from 2 - 6 sessions; with chronic debilitating disease or severe injury, it is usually necessary to work for longer. The recommended interval between sessions are usually a week to a fortnight apart.
For further information or to book an appointment, contact George on +353 87 2643542 or email: grcranio@gmail.com
Testimonials
I received a wonderful Craniosacral session from George recently and felt the weight of an old headache lift and be relieved. George has a wonderful caring and compassionate way. I am glad to have found him on my healing journey.
Fiona 52, Blarney, Co. Cork
Having had some problems with my hip, knee, and lower back recently, I decided to contact George. I had several craniosacral sessions, and I must say, I found them extremely beneficial, and a very relaxing experience. Overall, a very satisfactory experience.
Diarmuid, 79, Kanturk, Co. Cork
Breaking Stigma: IRD Duhallow’s Empowering
Evening on Addiction and Mental
Health
IRD Duhallow hosted an evening of information and discussion on addiction and mental health. Pictured are Brigid-Ide Walsh, Maura Walsh and Helen O’ Sullivan of IRD Duhallow, Billy Dennehy, Cork County Council, Sergeant Mark Daly, Garda Kathryn Canty and Guest Speakers Tony O’ Reilly, Brenda Dennehy and Ciarán Carey
Duhallow News
Liscarroll’s Memorable Weekend!
Liscarroll National School had a memorable weekend filled with festivities. The school community came together to mark two significant events.
The highlight of the weekend was the official opening of the “Ball Wall” – a brand-new addition to the school’s facilities. The Ball Wall, located near the school’s playground, provides an exciting space for handball and hurling. Students, teachers, and parents gathered to witness the ribboncutting ceremony, and the cheers echoed as the first ball rebounded off the wall.
Simultaneously, the school’s 5th Class celebrated the launch of their Heritage Keepers Book. Over the past year, these young historians delved into local
history, interviewed community members, and researched Liscarroll’s heritage. Their book is a compilation of stories, photographs, and fascinating facts about the area –from ancient ruins to folklore and traditions. Many local historians and landowners were invited in to the school to speak on all the places and events mentioned in the book. Fifth class then visited all these sites. The class worked tirelessly in conjunction with ‘The Burren Trust’ to produce this wonderful publication.
5th class joined by Cllr John Paul O’Shea, Liam Madden, Gearóid Murphy, Michael O’Shea and Michael Moynihan TD
2nd left to right-Willie Stokes, Dónal Ó Cáinte, John O’ Connor, Pat O’ Brien (These all came and spoke with 5th class about various historical sites around the parish and also met us at the locations when out on our trips.)
Congratulations to Liscarroll National School on a successful weekend of celebrations!
Duhallow News
Crossword sponsored by Duhallow Community Food Services
Across
1. Buccaneers (7)
5. African equine (5)
8. Serious (5)
9. Disregarded (7)
10. Abhorrent (7)
11. Beer mug (5)
12. Intense (5)
14. Thicket (5)
19. Regular hexahedrons (5)
21. Residence (7)
23. Greed (7)
24. Deportation (5)
25. Choose (5)
26. Journeyman (7)
Down
1. Rector (6)
2. Kind of puzzle (5)
3. Deluge (7)
4. Grabbed (6)
5. Regions (5)
6. Edges (7)
7. Fervent (6)
13. Vegetable (7)
15. Remnant (7)
16. Abrasion (6)
17. Photographic equipment (6)
18. Aft (6)
20. Change position (5)
22. Ways out (5)
Solution: Issue 114, MAY 17th, 2024
Duhallow News Duhallow News Duhallow News
Complete the crossword and post with your name and contact details to:
Discover Duhallow Puzzle Competition, James O’Keeffe Institute Newmarket, Co. Cork
Or simply scan completed puzzle or take a snap with your phone email to discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com
Terms & Conditions:
Deadline for submissions is noon on Friday, JUNE 7th 2024.
First correct entry drawn will win a €20 voucher, valid for three months from date of issue, to be redeemed for food at the Duhallow Community Food Services. No cash alternative. Winner will be named in subsequent issue of Discover Duhallow. One entry per person. No correspondence will be entered into. Voucher to be collected from Duhallow Community Food Services, Newmarket.
Congratulations to Anna ORiordan, Kilbrin who wins a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services!