IT Summer 2020

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

The leading magazine for professional therapists

Spring 2020

Issue 132

fht.org.uk

Health and happiness

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Mindful beauty – A look at an eco-friendly beauty salon

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Fuelled by plants – Plant-based diets and sports performance

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Promoting happiness in ourselves and others

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Experience. 16 years specialising in the professional therapist sector OUR LOCATION

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I see clients at locations, in Amersham and Watford, covering teh local area of north

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west London

020 864 1135

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HYPNOTHERAPY, NLP & COACHING IN LYMINGTON, HAMPSHIRE

North East Therapies

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Hypnotherapy, NLP & Coaching in Lymington

Reflexology, Massage & Aromatherapy treatments in Newcastle

Hello and welcome to my website.

Welcome to our website Muiatem quis verita auda quam, nate si ium quas a ne pror ad que sunt, accum, que re odis sequid untemquodi vel maximint vel in eatestestem rerferrum etur aliquib usdaerat qui nitatur? Igent od quiae natiant volorestia nonsed magnat.

Ex eosam quae volupta tibuscidelis dellacc aborit exerioribus magnihi liatur alignim ilitas quatem sit abori dolupta nimi, con eversperci cupta il ilic tempor audit ex exped quam explandaecum quam inullup tatur?

Aborpore eum que ea sectur, ut ullecum era velecullab ipienduntus dolorepel il iumquia debis ventur, samendam, tem at optas nist untur? Idellatem quatur aut aut qui offici netur, con natesed ut et maiore aceat harum utem debit, sitatest, quaest quis eiciminciet latur minverum alique rempost voluptat doluptat aut reriones expeles

OUR LOCATION Our Therapy Clinic is based in Newcastle and covers the local area and all of North East England

077 2864 135

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My name is Juliet Sims and I am a fully qualified, experienced Clinical Hypnotherapist, Master NLP Practitioner, Master Time Line Therapy® Practitioner and Life & Business Coach. My practice is based in Lymington, on the edge of The New Forest, close to Southampton, Hampshire.

I am committed to helping people overcome their personal challenges and achieve positive change in their lives, whether this be on a personal or professional level. I am experienced in working in many areas and I use advanced techniques to help people achieve the change they are looking for.

MY LOCATION I work from my private consultation room in Lymington, Hampshire and also offer Coaching sessions over Skype and FaceTime.

07768 183543

Juliet Sims HYPNOTHERAPY, NLP & COACHING IN LYMINGTON, HAMPSHIRE

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Is there something in your life you would like to change?

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The website provider for professional therapists * Google analysis independently verified by Private Practice Hub. See www.webhealer.net/blog for details.

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Contents Contents Contents

I N T E R N AT I O N A L I N T E R N AT I O N A L N TT E R N N A N A A LL II N E R A TT II O O N

Spring 2020 Spring 2020 Spring 2020 Spring 2020

fht.org.uk

Issue 132

The leading magazine for professional therapists

fht.org.uk

Issue 132

The leading magazine for professional therapists The leading magazine for professional therapists

fht.org.uk fht.org.uk

Issue 132 Issue 132

The leading magazine for professional therapists

Health and Health and happiness Health and happiness Promoting happiness happiness in ourselves Promoting happiness and others

Inside...

Inside...

spring 2020 spring spring 2020 2020

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38 38

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Features Features Features Health and happiness

20 20

Health and happiness We look at what makes us Health and happiness

We look at what makes us happy and how to happiness We look look at promote what makes makes us We at what us happy and how to promote happiness in ourselves andto with tips from happy and how how toothers, promote happiness happy and promote happiness in ourselves and others, with tips from psychology expert, Vanessa King positive in ourselves ourselves and others, others, with tips from from in and with tips positive psychology expert, Vanessa King psychology expert, expert, Vanessa Vanessa King King positive psychology positive

20 20 20 26 26 26

44 44

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A look at plant-based diets and sports performance A look look at at plant-based plant-based diets diets and and A sports performance sports performance performance sports

TherapyAid Th erapyAid Jackie Hamilton, MFHT, TherapyAid

Jackie Hamilton, MFHT, talks about supporting unpaid carers Jackie Hamilton, MFHT, Jackie Hamilton, MFHT, talks about supporting unpaid carers through hersupporting not-for-profi t organisation, talks about about supporting unpaid carers talks unpaid carers through her not-for-profit organisation, Therapy Aid.not-for-profi through her her not-for-profitt organisation, organisation, through Therapy Aid. Therapy Aid. Aid. Therapy

30 30 30

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34 34 34

Member survey results Member survey results We reveal our 2020 survey Member survey results

We reveal our 2020 survey results and discover We reveal reveal ourwhat 2020matters survey most We our 2020 survey results and discover what matters most to our members results and discover discover what what matters matters most most results and to our members to our our members members to

38 38 38

Put your best business foot Put your best business foot forward Put your best business foot forward Jane Sheehan, shares some business forward

Jane Sheehan, shares some business tips FHT members frombusiness her recently Janewith Sheehan, shares some some business Jane Sheehan, shares tips with FHT members from her recently updated Sole Trader tips with with book, FHT members members from her her recently recently tips FHT from updated book, Sole Trader updated book, book, Sole Sole Trader Trader updated

44 44 44

Mindful beauty Mindful beauty Joanna Taplin, 2019 FHT Beauty Mindful beauty

Joanna Taplin, 2019 FHT Beauty Therapist of the Taplin, Year, talks her Joanna Taplin, 2019about FHT Beauty Beauty Joanna 2019 FHT Therapist of the Year, talks about her eco-beauty Sunshine for theher Soul Therapist of ofsalon the Year, Year, talks about about her Therapist the talks eco-beauty salon Sunshine for the Soul eco-beauty salon salon Sunshine Sunshine for for the the Soul Soul eco-beauty

Spring 2020 Spring 2020 Spring Spring 2020 2020

Members’ pages Members’ pages Members’ pages 51 Members’ news

26 26

Regulars Regulars Regulars

8 8 10 8 8 10 12 10 10 12 18 12 12 18 24 18 18 24 29 24 24 29 36 29 29 36 42 36 36 42 47 42 42 47 50 47 47 50 50 50 61 61 66 61 62 61 66 66 66

News update News update Viewpoint News update update News Viewpoint Things for Spring Viewpoint Viewpoint Things for Spring Here forfor you Things for Spring Things Spring Here for you Ask Herean forexpert you Here for you Ask an expert Essential oil profile – Jasmine Ask an an expert expert Ask Essential oil profile – Jasmine Local groups Essential oil profi profile le – – Jasmine Jasmine Essential oil Local groups Top blog Local groups Local groups Top blog Six Topways blog to...

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Industry news Industry news Dr Michael Dixon Guest Column... Dr Michael Dixon discusses his topDr five Guest Column...

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Dr Michael Dixon Dixon Guest Michael discusses his top five frustrations a GP discusses his hisastop top five ve discusses fi frustrations as a GP frustrations as as a a GP GP frustrations

51 52 51 51 52 54 52 52 54 55 54 54 55 55 55

Members’ news New products Members’ news Members’ news New products Competition New products products New Competition FHT Awards Competition Competition FHT Awards FHT Awards Awards FHT

40 48 40 40 48 56 48 48 56 57 56 56 57 58 57 57 58 58 58

FHT learning Research FHT learning learning FHT Research CPD questions Research Research CPD questions Reading room and spiral quiz CPD questions questions CPD Reading room and spiral quiz FHT accredited courses Reading room and and spiral quiz quiz Reading room spiral FHT accredited courses FHT accredited accredited courses courses FHT

Learning Learning Learning 40 FHT learning

66 66

International therapist International therapist International International therapist therapist

3 3 3 3

Everyday essentials for therapists

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4 International therapist

Spring 2020

Letter from the editor

Federation of Holistic Therapists 18 Shakespeare Business Centre Hathaway Close Eastleigh Hants SO50 4SR T. 023 8062 4350 E. info@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk Editor Karen Young Deputy Editor Leanne Sheill Creative Director Peter Davies Advertising Tom Mayo T. 020 3603 7943 E. thomas@centuryonepublishing.uk Deadlines – Summer 2020 (Issue 133) Editorial – 24 April Display adverts –26 June Published – 17 July Senior management team Beverley Bartlett, Trevor Cleal, Jade Dannheimer, Julie McFadden, Annie Walling, Karen Young.

The wrap your magazine has arrived in is 100% compostable. Please dispose of in your compost heap, or in food or garden waste bins where accepted by local authorities. Do not place in plastic recycling.

International Therapist is printed on FSC© responsibly sourced paper. If you can bear to part with your copy please pass it on to a friend to read or recycle.

Hello,

G

iven the gravity of the current situation we are in, I hope you don’t mind me giving a small drum roll and 'Ta-da!' as I introduce you to our new-look International Therapist.

As you can see from the cover and content, we’ve pulled out the feather dusters and given your favourite magazine a good spring clean. Along with a fresh design, we’ve also introduced a few new regulars including a guest column with Dr Michael Dixon, GP and national lead for social prescribing (see page 66).

I’m sure that many of you will appreciate that a lot of the content in this issue was already under way before COVID-19 had hit our nation’s headlines, which means some of the articles will highlight practices or events that sadly aren’t possible at this time.

We hope that where this is the case, rather than feel dejected, you will feel inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead, when you are once again able to provide your full and invaluable support to others.

As always, we’d love your feedback about any aspect of the magazine, so please send your comments to the team at internationaltherapist@fht.org.uk or get in touch via social media.

You may have also spotted that our lead feature in this issue is about health and happiness (page 14) and while it wasn’t intentional, the timing is more than a little fortuitous. Now, perhaps more than ever, we

need to find ways to focus on the positives and stay connected with others.

The good news is that if we or our clients are currently struggling to focus on what is going well in our lives, research shows that happiness, compassion and kindness are skills that can be learned and enhanced, thanks to the neuroplasticity of our brains – something that 84% of our members believed was the case in a recent FHT social media poll (thank you to those who took part).

And as Gelong Thubten, a Buddhist monk and meditation teacher, told delegates at the recent Mindful Living Show, ‘Joy is accessible even in the darkest of places’. Many experts also agree that small moments of joy can be just as beneficial as the big moments.

Enjoy, and above all else, stay well.

Karen Young, Editor

Useful FHT contacts Accreditation – Annie Walling E. accreditation@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk/accreditation

CPD requirements – Heidi Hinton E. cpd@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk/cpd

International Therapist – Leanne Sheill E. lsheill@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk/it

Membership and insurance – Beverly Bartlett E. info@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk

Press and media – Karen Young E. kyoung@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk/press-and-media FOLLOW FHT on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, LINKEDIN & INSTAGRAM

FHT is a trading name of the Federation of Holistic Therapists, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under fi rm reference number 502095. You may check this on the Financial Services Register by visiting the FCA’s website, register.fca.org.uk or by contacting the FCA on T. 0800 111 6768. Registered in England and Wales, No. 02864349. Registered offi ce: Chilworth Point, 1 Chilworth Road, Southampton SO16 7JQ. This issue of International Therapist has been published on behalf of the Federation of Holistic Therapists by Century One Publishing, Alban Row, 27-31 Verulam Rd, St Albans AL3 4DG. The Federation has taken all reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in the magazine. Except in respect of death or personal injury caused by the Federation’s negligence, the Federation shall not be liable, by reason of any error in or omission from the information contained in this or any previous editions of the magazine, for loss or damage whatsoever arising therefrom. Neither FHT, Century One Publishing nor the authors can accept liability for errors or omissions. Neither the Federation nor Century One Publishing necessarily associates itself with any views that may be expressed in this magazine, to which readers are invited to submit articles of general interest for publication. Responsibility cannot be accepted for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs either as prints, digital or transparencies. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form or by any means, whether electronic, mechanical or optical without written permission from the Federation.

Spring 2020

International therapist 5

Presidents welcome

Welcome

I

“

Nothing moves hearts and minds quite like a human story, so please share yours with us, so that we can keep banging the drum and get our voices heard.

hope you are keeping safe and well, and that you like your first new-look issue of International Therapist, with a fresh redesign and some new regulars.

On the topic of ‘all things new’, this year’s FHT Excellence Awards boasts a brand new category: FHT Green Business of the Year. Based on what you have told us in our annual member survey (see more on page 34), we know that sustainability is becoming increasingly important to many of you. So, if you, or someone you know, has launched a green product or you’re going the extra mile to make your business practices as environmentally friendly as possible, please get your nomination in to us before the closing date of 30 June at fht.org.uk/awards.

If you are particularly modest about your work (which is a trait of many people in our profession) or simply in two minds about entering any of the awards categories, please remember this: we can’t promote best practice and the many benefits therapies have to offer if we haven’t any real-life examples to show the world at large. Nothing moves hearts and minds quite like a human

story, so please share yours with us, so that we can keep banging the drum and get our voices heard.

Before signing off, it would feel wrong not to make a reference to the coronavirus, which has had a huge impact not just on you and your clients, but globally. As therapists, it is of course vital that we keep ourselves and our clients as well as possible, at all times, by following best practice and advice from the government and other authorities.

But we also have the privileged position of being able to help keep our clients grounded during times of personal and national unrest, by sharing with them self-help techniques they can use to help calm the mind and body and boost their immunity.

Stay well and remember to take good care of yourself before taking care of others albeit remotely.

Christopher Byrne, President

FHT Governing council President

Vice presidents Christopher Byrne ICAT (International Council of Acupuncture Therapists)

To learn more about the work of the FHT Governing Council and the individual board members, please visit fht.org.uk/about-us

6 International therapist

Gerri Moore IFHB (International Federation of Health and Beauty Therapists)

Herman Fenton HFST (International Council of Health, Fitness and Sports Therapists)

Mary Dalgleish ICHT (International Council of Holistic Therapists)

Judith Hadley ATL (Association of Therapy Lecturers)

Maria Mason HBEF (Health and Beauty Employers Federation)

Dr Kaur Thandi Birinder PACT (Professional Association of Clinical Therapists)

Lay member

Helen Chambers (representing the interests of the public) Spring 2020

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News

NEWS

The latest health, therapy and business news...

in brief

Playing tennis is better for the prevention of musculoskeletal problems than going to the gym, according to a study by experts at Liverpool Hope University.

In a study of 90 healthy participants, one group played tennis and the other took part in running, cycling or going to the gym. Each group took part in regular tests which looked at upper body strength, lower body strength, muscle fatigue and body composition.

The results found that the group who played tennis had better musculoskeletal function than those who went to the gym.

■ Access the report at fht.org.uk/IT-132-tennis

Fitness seat for cars in development Experts at Jaguar Land Rover are creating a car seat designed to trick the brain into thinking it is walking.

The car manufacturer hopes to improve customer wellbeing through technology that uses a series of actuators in the seat foam to create frequent micro-adjustments.

By simulating pelvic oscillation, the seat could combat some of the health risks of sitting down for extended periods of time on long journeys.

■ Find out more at fht.org.uk/IT-132-car-fitness

8 International therapist

The largest study on touch to date, called the Touch Test, has been launched by Goldsmiths University, in partnership with the BBC. Questions in the Touch Test are focused around how important touch is to people and their comfortability with physical contact.

Following the #MeToo movement, the survey will look at whether millennials prefer more or less physical contact than previous generations.

The questionnaire also looks at the effect of touch on health and wellbeing, as well as how it relates to empathy, loneliness and the size of social circles.

It takes between 20 and 40 minutes to complete, dependent on the responses given.

Results will form part of a BBC television series called the Anatomy of Touch, due to air in Autumn 2020, as well as appearing in scientific journals.

■ To take the survey, visit gold.ac.uk/news/the-touch-test/ ■ Find out more at fht.org.uk/IT-132-touch

Five times as many young people want to work in the leisure sector More young people want a career in art, culture, entertainment and sport than there are jobs available, according to the Your Voice survey.

Researchers spoke to 7,000 people aged between 14 and 18 in the UK to assess the disconnect between aspirations and accessible jobs.

The young people surveyed confirmed they felt confident in their career aspirations and did not report an interest in any other sector.

Experts say the report sparks concern over the breadth of work options that

young people are considering. From the 87% of 18-year olds who selected sectors of interest, the majority (68%) only identified one career path of interest.

The report outlines that more support from schools and colleges is required to bridge the gap between aspirations and career accessibility. This advice includes encouraging support from parents and having regular and broad career talks in schools.

■ Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-131-leisurejobs Spring 2020

Pictures and illustrations: Shutterstock

Playing tennis better for musculoskeletal problems than the gym

New study analyses the power of touch

News

Scottish government calls for cosmetic procedures to be regulated Proposals have been put forward by the Scottish government to ensure nonhealthcare professionals have a licence before giving cosmetic procedures such as dermal fillers or lip enhancers.

Anyone can currently provide these treatments and there are frequent cases of clients having issues post-treatment.

A public consultation will run until the end of April, with the Scottish government aiming to roll out legislation by the end of the year.

The Department for Health in the UK has said it is looking into additional safeguards, but it has not yet looked to build in industry legislation.

■ Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-131-regulation

Zero HIV transmissions in the UK by 2030 HIV transmission in the UK could be eliminated by 2030, according to a report by Public Health England.

The report details a rapid decline in cases of HIV in the UK from 2014 to 2018. The decline was particularly prevalent in gay and bisexual men with the figure falling 35%, from 3,480 in 2014 to 2,250 in 2018.

Evidence shows that combination prevention, including the use of

condoms, expanded testing and preventative drugs, has been effective in reducing HIV prevalence in Britain.

Continued decline and the possibility of eliminating HIV transmission could be made possible dependent on sustained efforts and expansion of preventative schemes.

■ Access the report at fht.org.uk/ IT-131-hiv

Blue light can disrupt sleep and cause damage to skin cells Exposure to blue light can disrupt the circadian rhythm and create damage in skin cells, according to a study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science.

The coloured light has been found to trigger cells in the skin to ‘think’ its daytime, even at night.

Like other processes in the body, the skin is focused on repairing damage during the night and preparing for the next morning.

This study measures the skin cell damage over different times of the day when exposed to blue light.

Findings show an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, DNA damage and inflammatory mediators, all of which have been shown to accelerate the ageing process.

■ Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-132-skin Spring 2020

Ethnic inequalities in UK sport participation Long-term figures published by Sport England show a lack of sports participation in black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities.

Sport England have combined two years of data looking at responses of more than 100,000 people to find a noticeable gap in BAME participation levels across the country.

Inactivity among people with ethnic backgrounds has been consistently more than 3% lower in the past three years than that of white British adults.

The study highlights the need for change as the UK population growth of people from black, Asian and minority ethnic groups is projected to grow from 1 in 5 to 2 in 5.

A campaign has been launched by the charity to lower the participation barriers and to shine a spotlight on the deep-rooted inequalities that lead to people from BAME communities missing out on opportunities to get involved with sport.

■ Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-132-sport-participation International therapist 9

Have your say

Viewpoint

Star Communication: Taster treatments at Forth Valley Sensory Centre Shirley commented on just how relaxing it really was. The wonderful smells combined with Shirley’s skill transported people away from the thronging crowds and into their own world.

At Forth Valley Sensory Centre, providing accessible experiences is a key part of the ethos. The Centre runs lots of different groups and classes, from cooking to self-defence, art to theatre trips. It is all about being inclusive, building confidence and helping people to live as independently as possible.

Shirley brought along her reflexology table and aromatherapy diffuser, and despite the packed halls, two choirs and a busy day, all those who had a session with

Volunteers needed for Healing Hands Network The Healing Hands Network (HHN) is a charity that provides therapies to the survivors of war overseas.

We are looking for therapists to volunteer in Bosnia for two weeks at a time (usually between May and October 2020).

The work will involve providing therapies to people who have been affected by war, typically sent to us from societies such as The Concentration Camp Union, Women Victims of War, Mothers of Srebrenica and Civil War Victims.

All you need to volunteer: ■ A complementary therapy qualification and insurance ■ The funds to cover your flights and accommodation (all of which will be organised for you).

■ Donate two weeks of your time to provide therapies in Bosnia.

We can guarantee that volunteering with HHN will be a lifechanging and very special experience, and Bosnia is the most beautiful country.

If working in Bosnia is something you would struggle to commit to, you can also volunteer your time to help war veterans in the UK instead.

We also run regular courses to benefit your practice and are a great team of people who share the same passion for therapies.

Please visit healinghandsnetwork.org.uk for more information. You can also read an article by HHN’s founder, Sue Stretton, at fht.org.uk/amputees-healinghandsnetwork ■ Julie Farmer, Healing Hands Network.

10 International therapist

■ Martin Allen, Fundraising and Publicity Manager at the Forth Valley Sensory Centre.

Getting oil stains out of clothes Dewi Smith, MFHT, contacted FHT asking if it was possible to post a question to members to ask does anyone have a formula for removing massage oil stains from cotton polo shirts. We put this question to our members on social media, please see the most popular responses below.

Washing soda

@btnholistics White vinegar and soda crystals. @aclamp Use washing soda crystals. @Vikitherapist Washing soda is what I use.

Washing up liquid

@lisacuthbert Washing up liquid neat leave it for 15 mins then wash top as normal. @Sarolta Biro Washing up liquid and hot water.

@Maggie Fisher Iten I usually put a tad of washing up liquid on the stain and put it in the wash (or pre-wash it with washing up liquid and still do the first). Most stains come out like that. @thechikimonkey I always put some washing up liquid in with my usual washing liquid. It works on getting grease and oil off dishes and it works on towels and clothes.

Spring 2020

Illustration: Shutterstock

There is a myth that if a person loses one of their key senses, for example their eyesight, then another will become stronger in order to compensate. While this is not correct, it is however true that those with sensory loss do appreciate their other senses and experiences much more.

This was one of the reasons the team at the Forth Valley Sensory Centre were delighted to welcome reflexologist, Shirley McCorquodale, MFHT, to our recent fayre. The event was organised to raise money for the centre, which helps people with sight or hearing loss living in the Forth Valley area to be as independent as possible.

Have your say

FHT Vice President Maria Mason visits the Robert Clack school Jodie and I teach at the Beauty Academy as part of the Robert Clack School in Dagenham, Essex. We would like to express our sincere thanks to Maria Mason for the visit she made to us in December 2019.

Maria was incredibly knowledgeable and experienced with levels of expertise rarely seen in the industry today. Our students were overwhelmed with respect for her and feedback from so many of them included the word ‘inspirational’. She went above and beyond in the time, care and empathy she extended to us all.

The students learnt so many tips and

good working practices, making it easy to see why she is one of the most successful salon owners in the country. Maria even included a very detailed talk on the importance of insurance for beauty therapists along with support, advice and knowledge on all aspects of the beauty industry.

FHT Vice President and award-winning salon owner, Maria Mason, said: ‘It was a pleasure to meet Julie and Jodie and their students who are clearly passionate about their chosen career path. I was impressed by the new purpose-built facilities and the incredible support that the head, Mr Russell Taylor, gave to vocational qualifications.’

Maria’s seminar enabled the students to gain two CPD points which will greatly enrich their CVs. The impact of her visit will support us in producing outstanding therapists, helping to raise the standards within the beauty industry.

■ Jodie Rose and Julie Wallis, Beauty Therapy Lecturers at the Robert Clack School.

Online chat Twitter Gut health by Dr Ese Stacey @framarhealth The gut and microbes play such an important role in our health. In this fascinating article in the latest @fht_org magazine, Dr Ese Stacey discusses the link between gut health and inflammation in the body.

Instagram International Therapist Winter 2020 arrives @backtobeautydevon My International Therapist magazine arrived today just in time for the weekend #fht_org #fht #learningallthetime #complementarytherapies #healthylifestyle #healthandwellness #bideford #torrington #northdevon

Spring 2020

“She made me feel very inspired to open my own salon and hopefully get to show the world what I can do, she was amazing!

Thanks Maria, you have shown me something I didn’t know.”

Sienna White, Student

Facebook Celebrating successes Rebecca Ayres @reactiv8therapy Thank you to the FHT for their continued support in celebrating my 2019 Sports Therapist of the Year win. It is an absolute privilege to be in a position to use my 15 years clinical massage experience combined with ScarWork to improve the lives of my clients.

Please keep in touch with us...

Email lsheill@fht.org.uk Facebook facebook.com/fht.org.uk Instagram @internationaltherapistmag Twitter @fht_Org FHT website fht.org.uk write to 18 Shakespeare Business Centre, Hathaway Close, Eastleigh, Hants, SO50 4SR

International therapist 11

Things for Spring

TUNE IN Get inspired by In the Moment’s regular podcast.

Featured guests include Kim Joy Hewlett from the Great British Bake Off and Mike Berners-Lee.

Spring is the perfect time to grow your own plants. Perhaps you’re already a seasoned gardener, why not give yourself the challenge of growing something new? The garden centre, Thompson and Morgan, have listed their top 10 plants for 2020. thompson-morgan.com/top-10-new-plantsfor-2020

calmmoment.com/ podcast/

"

Live life in full bloom" MAKING MACRAMÉ

Things for spring

Teach yourself the mindful knotting technique of macramé and create beautiful items for your home at the same time. youtube.com/macrameschool

RAISE AWARENESS

Show the world at large the benefits your therapies have to offer through awareness days, weeks and months ■ 18 May Mental Health Awareness week.

Head outside and join a community of runners at your local Parkrun. Find your closest Parkrun at parkrun.org.uk.

TAKE A BITE Eating seasonal produce is said to be better for our health due to increased nutrient qualities in foods. Look out for locally grown produce over the next few months, like asparagus, beetroot and blackcurrants.

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■ 10 June Aromatherapy awareness week.

FHT will be producing a range of resources for members to share, please see page 18 for more info.

GO OUTSIDE Embrace the change of the seasons and head outside to take in all that nature has to offer.

■ Walk the coast of Devon while practicing mindfulness techniques on a walking retreat on 8 June. sharphamtrust.org ■ Discover the benefits of forest bathing. The National Trust have put together a list of forests to explore in the UK. nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/a-beginners-guide-toforest-bathing

Spring 2020

Pictures and illustrations: Shutterstock

MOVE YOUR BODY

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3/31/20

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Thank you to all those working in and supporting the NHS at this challenging time.

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FHT’s members are looking forward to returning to full practice, as soon as it’s safe to do so, to help you support the nation’s health and wellbeing.

CPD Complementary Therapies in Cancer Care

eLearning for Massage Reflexology or Reiki 20% Discount Available (until the 30th June) USE CODE ‘Learning20’ on the website.

Adapt Your Therapies To Treat Patients With Cancer Unique eLearning course created from award winning Cancer Care Workshop Also suitable for healthcare professionals working within Oncology.

Learn in your own time, in your own home, at your own pace www.butterflytouchtherapiestraining.com E: marie@butterflytouchtherapiestraining.com Spring 2020

International therapist 13

Wellbeing

Health and happiness

We take a look at what makes us happy and how we can promote happiness in ourselves and others, with top tips from leading positive psychology expert, Vanessa King.

14 International therapist

that doing kind things for others makes us feel happier (Action for Happiness, 2019).

In some respects, the findings of these public opinion-based reports come as no big surprise, because according to Vanessa King, Action for Happiness’ positive psychology expert and author of 10 Keys to Happier Living, our brains have a natural tendency to notice and focus on the negative. ‘In psychology there’s a phrase that "bad is stronger than good". From an evolutionary point of view, our brains are hardwired to notice what’s wrong and we tend to experience unpleasant emotions more readily and strongly than positive ones. This kept us safe when, as a species, we were hunter-gatherers, but it doesn’t help so much in our lives today.’

Of course, good things DO happen to us, on a daily basis – it’s simply that for many of us these things pass us by unnoticed, overshadowed by the seemingly ‘bad stuff .’

Yet when we notice the good things, even if these are tiny, it can have psychological benefits. The good news is that if we are struggling to tune into our more smiley side, research now shows that happiness, compassion and kindness are skills that can be learned and enhanced, thanks to the neuroplasticity of our brains.

But what determines how happy we feel in the first place?

In pursuit of happiness ‘Many factors influence how happy we are,’ Vanessa told the FHT. ‘Some of these we simply can’t change, such as our genes and our upbringing. But providing we have enough to eat and somewhere safe to live, a significant proportion of our happiness comes down to our thoughts and actions.

And this is a good thing, because these are things that we have some control over.

Better still, a fundamental ingredient in

human psychological wellbeing is a sense of agency – a sense of control. By taking any positive action, no matter how small, we can start to fuel and help sustain our happiness.’

So how do we go about improving the way we think and act in order to make us happier? And how does being happier make us healthier?

‘At Action for Happiness, we have distilled thousands of research papers into our 10 Keys to Happier Living,’ says Vanessa. ‘Each of the 10 Keys are things that we can do that can have the most influence over how we feel. The first five focus on our outside world, while the remaining five focus on our inner world. But it’s a menu, not a prescription or list that has to be worked through in a certain order. What works for each of us will be different and we all need different things at different times.’

The majority of our members will already be doing a number of these things, but there may be other areas you and your clients might like to explore...

1

The GREAT DREAM 10 Keys to Happier Living Giving – do things for others Giving to others doesn’t have to involve money. It can be as simple as a smile or giving someone a moment of your attention, or your time, care or skills.

When we give to others, without expecting anything in return, not only is it nice for the person on the receiving end, it releases endorphins and activates the reward centres in our brain, as if we are getting a gift or reward of some kind. This makes us feel happier and even more inclined to give again. Whether it’s a random act of kindness or planned voluntary work, studies have shown that different forms of giving can help to increase our longevity Spring 2020

Pictures and illustrations: Shutterstock

W

e all know that being happy makes us feel good but did you know that the social movement Action for Happiness has brought together compelling evidence that happier people tend to have better overall health and live longer than their less happy peers?

Being happy is also contagious – if we’re happy, those around us will be happier, too - and we are more likely to be engaged and productive at work, to volunteer in the local community and be morally and financially responsible.

Yet before COVID-19 had even reached our shores, a number of recent reports were already suggesting that many of us living in the UK are not as happy as we once were or would like to be, and particularly in comparison to those living in Finland and other Nordic countries, which dominated the top five spots in the 2020 World Happiness Report (Helliwell et al, 2020).

The Office of National Statistics (ONS) has been measuring the UK’s wellbeing since 2011 and for the first time this February, reported a significant fall in both our life satisfaction and ‘feeling that things done in life are worthwhile’ (ONS, 2020). Average anxiety ratings also remained high, with around 10.6 million people reporting high anxiety. Suggested reasons for these statistics include economic and employment concerns surrounding Brexit, along with widespread media coverage of business failures, including Debenhams going into administration and Boots and Marks & Spencer among those announcing store closures (Booth, 2020; Elliott, 2020).

The Kindness Report published by Action for Happiness in December last year also revealed 60% of us feel that people in Britain have become less caring over the last 10 years, even though 79% of us believe

Wellbeing

Spring 2020

International therapist 15

Wellbeing

TED TALK

– ROBERT WALDINGER

‘What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on happiness’ Robert is the fourth director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, which has tracked the lives of 724 adult men for more than 75 years, from two very different socioeconomic backgrounds. In this 12-minute talk he reveals that the key to health and happiness is not money, fame or success, as many people think.

It’s forming strong, meaningful relationships. Visit ted.com and search for Robert Waldinger (Brown et al, 2003); reduce cognitive decline (Dunn et al, 2011), blood pressure (Whillians et al, 2016), and symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression (Lyubomirsky, 2008); and improve emotional wellbeing and sense of selfworth (Luks, 1988).

3

the quality of our relationships that matter most (Uchino, 1996).

Exercising – look after your body

Being active isn’t just good for our physical health – it makes us happier, too. Dr John Ratey, a Harvard University professor of psychiatry, has described aerobic exercise as ‘Miracle Gro for the brain’. This is because just 20 minutes of aerobic exercise induces beneficial responses in the brain, including an increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein associated with cognitive improvement and the alleviation of depression and anxiety. Ratey’s research has shown that children who exercise before school have improved academic performance, while aerobic exercise helps adults to think more clearly and effectively (Ratey and Loehr, 2011).

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Awareness – live mindfully

Mindfulness has been shown to help people manage pain and reduce blood pressure, anxiety and depression. In some situations it can also benefit the immune system and improve certain skin conditions. Recent research has shown that an eight-week mindfulness meditation class can lead to structural brain changes including increased grey-matter density in the hippocampus, known to be important for learning and memory, and in structures associated with self-awareness, compassion and introspection (Action for Happiness, 2020).

Relating – together we’re stronger

Trying out – keep learning new things

‘As human beings we are social creatures and have evolved to live in social groups,’ says Vanessa. ‘Whether we are introvert or extrovert, we all need to feel connected to people. If we don’t feel connected to others – if we feel lonely for prolonged periods of time - that can actually increase our chances of depression and be as bad for our physical health as smoking or obesity.’

Research has shown that having strong connections with family, friends, colleagues and the community increases our immunity to infection, lowers our risk of heart disease and reduces mental decline as we get older (Dickerson and Zoccola, 2009).

Research also shows that it’s

‘As well as exercise helping our brains, it’s good to exercise our brains, too,’ says Vanessa. ‘Being curious about new things can be a rich source of enjoyment and fulfilment throughout our lives.

Learning as we get older is also a great way of keeping our brains functioning as we age. Trying new experiences can

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expand our sense of time and it can also feed our creativity. New ideas come from connecting seemingly disparate things in our minds, so the more diverse information we feed our brain, the more we can make different connections, which fuels our creative thinking.’

Direction – have goals for the future

Feeling good about the future is important for our happiness and setting goals is a way of turning our values and dreams into reality. ‘It’s not just achieving our goals that influences our happiness,’ Vanessa advises. ‘Planning and working towards our goals can also bring a sense of fulfilment. And it’s not just about big life goals – micro goals matter too, because being able to identify that you have made progress is an important psychological need. If the micro goal links back to our bigger aims and priorities, then all the better.’ What’s important is to choose goals that relate to something you want to achieve and having the ability to pre-empt and resolve any problems that arise.

Resilience – find ways to bounce back

Life is full of ups and downs. We all experience stress, loss, failure or trauma.

But how we respond to these events has a big impact on our health and wellbeing.

There will always be times when we can’t choose what happens to us but, in principle, we can choose how we respond to any given situation. Recent research has found that we can learn how to be more resilient (Reivich K and Shatté A, 2003) and the real plus is that all of the other nine keys to living a happier life outlined

by Vanessa and Action for Happiness contribute to our resilience.

Emotions – look for what’s good

Research shows that regularly experiencing positive emotions – like joy, gratitude, contentment, inspiration and pride – creates an

Spring 2020

Wellbeing

8 9 10

‘upward spiral’, helping us to build our resources and become more resilient (Action for Happiness, 2020b). While we need to be realistic about life’s ups and downs, it’s helpful to focus on the good aspects of any situation. Drip feeding ourselves positive emotions can help us buffer against stress and if we experience more positive emotions than negative ones, the scales will tip in our favour and we will feel happier – something known as the ‘positive ratio’. And positive emotions don’t need to be huge sources of joy.

Spotting a robin in your garden or noticing a pleasant smell all count.

Acceptance – be comfortable with who you are

No-one is perfect. It’s important to accept who you are, warts and all, and not least because many experts believe that you cannot be truly compassionate to others until you are compassionate to yourself.

‘We all have strengths and weaknesses,’ Vanessa explains. ‘Studies show that if you can identify your strengths and use those in new ways, not only will this make you happier, it can make you healthier and more effective at work. Using our strengths is the biggest potential we have to contributing to the world and achieving a sense of meaning’. Notice your self-talk too. If you have a harsh inner critic, can you change it into a wise coach?

Helping clients identify ‘what’s right’ 'If a client has a long-term condition, and particularly if pain is involved, this is likely to be at the forefront of their mind.

As I mentioned earlier, that’s because our brains are hardwired to focus on what’s wrong, so a great way to help your client is to try and encourage them to also focus on something that’s right. You could ask them about any positive changes they have noticed since their last treatment (or highlight this to your client, if you use MYMOP or another patient-reported outcome measure). As human beings, we like to see progress.

'You could also encourage them to keep a journal, where each day they jot down three things that have brought them pleasure or enjoyment, or they are grateful for. This isn’t to diminish the seriousness of their condition, but just to help them identify those things that are OK or going well. Research shows that noticing what is good in life – no matter how small – can have a positive impact on our wellbeing and reduces our propensity to feel down.'

Empowering clients 'Having a sense of control over our own health – active coping - is very empowering.

If your client is already doing things to help improve their health and wellbeing, be sure

Meaning – be a part of something bigger

‘Feeling that what we do contributes to something bigger and beyond ourselves is an important ingredient in happiness, as it improves wellbeing and happiness and builds our resilience’, says Vanessa. ‘But finding meaning isn’t always easy.

For some, it’s about finding a job or activity that you are passionate about or having a deep connection to the natural world. Our friends, family and community are also sources of meaning.

But giving to others – the first of our 10 Keys to Happier Living – is a great place to start if you are struggling’.

Bringing happiness into the treatment room

We asked Vanessa to share with us some tips on how FHT members could help to improve their clients’ happiness, as well as their own...

Spring 2020

themselves a note to do the exercises when they get home). But make sure they aren’t too harsh on themselves if they don’t manage to achieve their goal. We’re only human and our ‘inner critic’ can trigger our brain to go into ‘fight or flight’ mode, in the same way as an external threat. Help them to think about turning their inner critic into a wise, kind coach.'

Be compassionate to yourself 'Compassion is not just about being empathetic. It’s noticing when someone is suffering and having the courage to alleviate that. We’re often good at doing it for others, but not for ourselves. If there is something on your to-do-list that will improve your health and happiness, don’t put it off because there are ‘more important things’ on the list. Treat yourself as you would treat others.'

Micro breaks 'Remember, even the smallest thoughts and actions can make a big difference. Try to take micro breaks throughout the day.

Just a minute or two of mindful practice or mind wondering has been shown to improve wellbeing, and particularly when you are really struggling – it will help to improve your performance and concentration levels.' T References For full references, go to fht.org.uk/ IT-132-happiness

to praise and encourage this. Sharing selfhelp tips and techniques will also help to create a sense of self-efficacy in your client.'

Anchoring client goals 'If you are setting your client a goal, such as doing a set of exercises at home between treatments, get them to visualise when and where they will do these exercises – it could increase their chances of doing it by up to 50%. Ask them what might get in the way of doing their exercises (getting up late) and how will they will overcome this (writing

For more information...

Visit actionforhappiness. org where there is a wealth of different resources, courses and events that focus on improving the nation’s happiness. There is also more information about Vanessa and her book, 10 Keys to Happier Living, which is a practical guide to the science of happiness and full of activities to try (available from Amazon).

International therapist 17

Support

On these pages, we highlight some of FHT’s activities that aim to get you and your therapies the recognition they deserve

We are pleased to announce that the 2020 FHT Excellence Awards are now open for entries.

First launched 10 years ago, the FHT Excellence Awards showcase how you, our members, are making a difference to people living in your local community – from helping clients to improve their health and wellbeing, to providing tailored learning and support to students and qualified therapists.

This year, we have introduced a new category – FHT Green Therapy Business of the Year – as we know that more than 50% of our members are embracing sustainability and looking at ways to make their business practices more environmentally friendly.

Our full range of awards categories are: ■ Complementary Therapist of the Year ■ Sports Therapist of the Year ■ Beauty Therapist of the Year ■ Student of the Year ■ Tutor of the Year ■ Local Group Coordinator of the Year ■ Green Therapy Business of the Year

Make the most of Aromatherapy Awareness Week this June Aromatherapy Awareness Week 2020, which runs from 8 June, is a wonderful opportunity to show potential clients and employers the many benefits this complementary therapy has to offer.

FHT is putting together some useful resources to help you spread the word in your local area, even if social distancing measures are still in place and mean you aren’t able to carry out treatments during the week itself. You can: ■ Download: the FHT’s free promotional leaflet/poster to distribute; an image to post on social media; and a cover/banner image for use on your social media profiles* ■ Contact your regular clients and local businesses during Aromatherapy Awareness Week, offering a discount or offer of your choice that applies to their next or first aromatherapy

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Entering the FHT awards is free of charge and you can enter, or nominate someone else, for more than one category.

As well as gaining much deserved recognition, our winners will receive an award trophy, special logo and certificate.

Finalists will be published on the FHT website in July and the winners announced later in the year (date to be confirmed).

To read some top tips and enter this year’s awards, visit fht.org.uk/awards

treatment with you.

■ Contact your local newspaper or radio station, or send a press release, telling them what you are doing to celebrate Aromatherapy Awareness Week, or giving information about – for example - how essential oils can be used safely at home. Remember to insert your special Accredited Register mark ■ Social distancing measures permitting, get together with other FHT members from your local group to organise an event where taster treatments are available. You could consider donating all or a portion of the proceeds to a local charity – it is likely whoever you are supporting will help to promote the event in return, which means more people to treat! *You must be an FHT Member or Fellow and hold a level 3 qualification in aromatherapy to download the FHT's Aromatherapy Awareness Week promotional posters, banners and other support material

Visit fht.org.uk/aromatherapy-awareness-week from 8 May to download your free resources.

Spring 2020

Illustrations: Shutterstock

Here for you

2020 FHT Excellence Awards open for entries

Support

Kate Mulliss, MFHT, gives aromatherapy presentation to GPs at Clinical Open Day

IN THE MOMENT In The Moment is a monthly lifestyle magazine covering wellbeing, creativity, good living and travel, with a circulation figure of 50,000 readers.

In the February 2020 issue, the FHT provided a five-page feature on aromatherapy, covering the therapy’s history, it’s therapeutic benefits, how to use oils safely at home, five short essential oil profiles, and the benefits of visiting a professional aromatherapist.

NATURAL HEALTH With a circulation figure of 40,000, this monthly magazine provides readers tips on how to look and feel their best, naturally.

In each issue, the FHT provides a plant profile, highlighting BREAK the health benefits of a plant FREE & THRIVE typically used in aromatherapy. £10 In the December 2019, January 2020 and February 2020 issues, The Recl aim LOVE LIST your peace we covered frankincense, geranium and jasmine.

NATURAL HEALTH Author of A Mindful Menopause RADIANT NEW YOU (International Therapist, Autumn AGELESS BEAUTY 2019), Clarissa Kristjansson, also contributed a full-page article to the December 2019 issue, offering readers tips on how to PERMISSION incorporate simple mindfulness to FEEL techniques into their daily routine.

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FHT IN THE PRESS

FEBRUARY 2020

The FHT was delighted to have the opportunity to give a presentation on aromatherapy to GPs and other healthcare professionals attending a Clinical Open Day in Bristol this February.

Organised by Dr Elizabeth Thompson and Dr Duncan Still from the National Centre for Integrative Medicine (NCIM), the one-day training event attracted more than 80 delegates and focused on how inflammation, which underpins many chronic conditions seen in daily practice, could be addressed using an integrative approach.

FHT member, Kate Mulliss, provided a 40-minute presentation that outlined which essential oils are commonly used in aromatherapy for their antiinflammatory and analgesic properties, while highlighting the importance of stress relief and supporting the client’s mental and emotional needs, which can also have a positive impact on symptoms and pain perception.

In addition, delegates got to enjoy a sensory experience towards the end of the talk, with Kate introducing them to the aroma of three essential oils cited in the presentation: spikenard, bergamot and lavender.

‘I was absolutely delighted to be approached by the FHT to give this aromatherapy presentation,’ says Kate, an experienced aromatherapy practitioner and training provider. ‘It was a fantastic opportunity not only to provide an overview of evidencebased aromatherapy approaches to chronic inflammation and autoimmune conditions, but to emphasize the importance of professional practice and what to look for when choosing an aromatherapist.’ The closing slides of Kate’s presentation signposted delegates to the FHT website and highlighted the benefits of referring patients to therapists listed on an Accredited Register.

FHT regularly contributes to a number of consumer and trade publications, to help promote you and the therapies you practise to the public, and to reinforce the importance of best practice. Recent highlights include:

The four-step plan to unlock your emotions and tap into your potential

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PLUS: HOW SUSTAINABLE IS YOUR HOME? WRITE AN OPEN LETTER TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF NATURAL REMEDIES TO REDUCE INFLAMMATION SIX DAILY RITUALS TO START THE YEAR

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NH FC Jan 2020.indd 1

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29/11/2019 14:49

International therapist 19

Fuelled by plants

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t’s been reported that Google searches for ‘vegan nutritionist’ have risen by 400% since the Netflix documentary The Game Changers was released in September 2019.

Executive producers of the documentary, James Cameron, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jackie Chan, set out to challenge the popular belief that a meat-based diet is essential for athletic performance. They in fact argue that the consumption of meat and dairy is detrimental to sporting achievements.

In this article, we look at whether a vegan or vegetarian diet can improve success in sport and have a positive impact on our overall health.

Increased stamina Athletes can experience brain fatigue and 20 International therapist

exhaustion when undertaking extended periods of physical activity. This is commonly due to a lack of glycogen stores in the body, ordinarily gained from eating high-quality carbohydrates with a lower glycaemic index (GI) which release sugars into the body at a slower rate (Murray and Rosenbloom, 2018).

Numerous studies on the most effective diet for athletes have found that the intake of high-quality carbohydrates far outweighs the need for protein and fat in the diet, although the latter are still considered necessary energy sources for performance in sport. In a panel report conducted in 2018, experts agreed that carbohydrates are the substrates most efficiently metabolised by the body and the only macronutrient that can be broken down rapidly enough to provide energy

during periods of high-intensity exercise (Kanter, 2018).

High-quality carbohydrates can be found in foods such as potatoes, whole grains and legumes, which provide a range of nutrients and release sugar and starch slowly. Low-quality carbohydrates such as pastries, white bread or sugary drinks, typically provide less nutrients and release sugar more quickly (Harvard, 2018).

Interestingly, research indicates that most athletes don’t consume the levels of carbohydrates they need to meet their sporting requirements. In a study looking at the dietary intake of 116 nonelite athletes participating in a winter triathlon, Masson and Lamarche (2016) asked 34 women and 84 men to fill out a food frequency questionnaire during their training period. Findings showed Spring 2020

Illustrations: Shutterstock

Following the popularity of the Netflix documentary, The Game Changers, we take a look at plant-based diets and sports performance.

Sport

that only 45.7% of the athletes reported consuming the recommended intake for carbohydrates for an athlete of 7–10g a day (Masson and Lamarche 2016).

Lower body-fat percentage Research indicates athletes with a lower body-fat percentage will have enhanced endurance ability, as carrying reduced weight is less taxing on the body. In a study on the link between body-fat percentage and performance ability, researchers looked at the statistics of 261 collegiate football players. Researchers concluded that an increase in body fat was negatively correlated with performance (Miller et al, 2002).

Multiple studies consider plant-based diets best for achieving a lower body-fat percentage because foods typically have low glycaemic index values and are rich in fibre, keeping us fuller for longer. In a recent study of 64 overweight women following a vegan diet for 14 weeks, researchers found a reduction in body weight by an average of 3.2kg. Weight loss occurred despite the absence of limits on portion size or energy intake, an indicator that the changed diet kept the participants feeling full (Barnard et al, 2005). Research looking into how filling different foods are found that boiled potatoes were rated seven times more satisfying than a croissant, meaning a person is less likely to consume unnecessary calories (Holt et al, 1995).

Improved muscle efficency Diet is said to influence several factors related to muscle efficiency, from increasing the flow of oxygen to the muscles, to how quickly muscle damage is repaired. Research suggests consuming more plant-based foods could be the answer to speeding up these processes during and after physical exercise.

Protein Though carbohydrates have quickly become recognised as the most important source of energy during physical activity, it is widely accepted that endurance athletes still require more protein than the average person. In a controlled study, researchers from Japan found that endurance athletes require between 1.65 and 1.83g of protein, compared to the average recommended daily allowance (RDA) for an inactive Spring 2020

person of 0.8g (Kato et al, 2016).

The nine essential amino acids found in protein sources are essential for helping athletes repair from muscle damage and recover from high intensity workouts. But does the quality of protein differ dependent on its source?

Meat, fish and eggs hold all nine of the vital amino acids necessary for helping us grow and repair muscle tissue, as do certain plant-based foods such as grains, lentils and soy. Both meat and plantbased foods provide benefits beyond the nine amino acids, for instance, animal protein can contain high levels of heme iron and vitamin B12, while plant proteins contain phytonutrients and antioxidants. Some plant-based foods can lack the heme iron and vitamin B12 found in meat, and there are some phytonutrients and antioxidants missing from animal protein (Johnson, 2018).

If an athlete were following a vegan diet, they may have to consume a higher quantity of plant-based foods to gain the same amount of protein as its animalderived counterpart. For those interested in researching the protein levels in plant-based foods in comparison to animal products, the US Department of Agriculture run a searchable database which offers a nutritional breakdown (US Department of Agriculture, 2020).

Increased blood flow Scientists have found a link between what we eat, the viscosity of our blood and the dilation of blood vessels. It is believed eating certain foods can improve blood flow, circulating more oxygen to the muscles during exercise.

Franz (2011) ran a pilot study on 14 women for six weeks, looking at the effects of a vegetarian diet on blood fluidity. Half of the participants were asked to follow a meat-based diet and half a vegetarian diet.

Following the trial, an increase in blood fluidity was noticed in the vegetarian group and a decrease was found in the group eating meat. Franz concluded that a vegetarian diet can positively influence the rheological behaviour (flow) of blood.

A systematic review of three randomised controlled trials noted that the positive correlation between a plant-based diet and blood viscosity could be the combination of an increase in antioxidants and a reduction of saturated fat (Naghedi-

Baghdar et al, 2018).

The ingestion of nitrates from vegetables such as beetroot, kale and spinach have been found to increase plasma nitrates in the blood (Jonvik et al, 2016). Plasma nitrates facilitate relaxation effects in the muscles in turn dilating the blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow throughout the body.

Mosher et al (2016) investigated the effects of nitrate supplementation on resistance exercise performance. In the double-blind study, 12 active men were asked to drink beetroot juice for six days before being asked to lift weights until failure. Results showed increases in resistance exercise performance with an average of 19.4% in repetitions and 18.9% in weight lifted (Mosher et al, 2016).

Reduced inflammation Periods of intense training are necessary for improving athletic performance.

This has been shown, however, to lead to inflammatory effects such as muscle soreness and impaired recovery (Barros et al, 2017).

Inflammation is a natural process in the body that begins the healing of damaged cells or the fighting of foreign invaders. It’s a positive response but has been proven to cause more harm than good if it takes place for longer than necessary. Diet is known to either help speed up the inflammatory response or extend it, leading to chronic inflammation (Felman, 2012).

Banard et al (2011) analysed a 2017 meta-analysis of 18 studies to determine whether vegetarian diets reduce inflammation in the body. The researchers found vegetarian diets consumed over a two-year period reduced the concentration of C-reactive protein (a marker of inflammation), suggesting International therapist 21

Sport

that plant-based foods have an antiinflammatory effect. The review concluded that the reason may be the high levels of antioxidants consumed from a plantbased diet.

It is thought that the absence of foods that increase inflammation is another benefit of a vegan diet. Foods which contain a high saturated fat content are found to contain inflammation markers such as increased levels of C-reactive protein and haemoglobin A1c (Giugliano et al, 2006).

In a cross-sectional analysis, Ley et al (2014) found that red meat is associated with unfavourable plasma concentrations of inflammatory biomarkers. Researchers looked at a cross-section of the Nurses’ Health Study, where BMI data and blood collection were taken of 3,690 people following a red meat diet over a one-year period. It was found that they had increased levels of C-reactive protein, haemoglobin A1c and stored iron, all markers of a rise in inflammation (Ley et al, 2014).

Enhanced immune function Despite the well reported health benefits of physical activity, extended periods of exercise are in fact a stressor that can lower the immune system (Pedersen et al, 2002). The immune system not only defends the body from infection but also influences tissue repair, metabolism, thermoregulation, sleep and mental health.

In the weeks following a marathon, runners often suffer with upper respiratory tract infections such as a sore throat, stuffy nose or cough, something that scientists put down to a weakened immune system. A double-blind study on 75 marathon runners that looked at the impact of beta glucan supplements (sugars found in oats and barley) found significant improvements on symptoms of physical health. Participants were asked to complete a health log for a month following their marathon and upper respiratory tract infections such as a sore 22 International therapist

throat, stuffy or runny nose and cough were reported by only 8% of subjects in both treatment groups, compared with 24% of placebo subjects (Talbott, 2009).

Carbohydrate supplements such as beta glucan are found to be the most effective for minimising immune disturbances during exercise recovery. Data from two studies of 30 marathon runners and 10 triathletes show higher plasma glucose levels associated with participant with the carbohydrate ingestion, compared to placebo. Higher plasma glucose levels suggest a decrease in physiological stress (Nieman, 1998).

The debate The Game Changers documentary has sparked controversy within the health and fitness world, challenging popular beliefs such as protein being the number one dietary requirement for athletes.

New research into vegan diets indicates that increasing the amount of plantbased foods in our diet can provide huge benefits. But does this mean that consuming animal products is bad for us?

As highlighted in the ‘lower bodyfat percentage’, ‘increased blood flow’ and ‘reduced inflammation’ sections in this feature, studies show that meat consumption can have a detrimental effect on sporting performance, and for a multitude of reasons.

For those of us who aren’t athletes, general advice is to consume a varied diet and to cut down on red meat where possible (Wang et al, 2018). It is important to note that meat and dairy provide necessary vitamins that can be difficult to

gain through a plant-based diet. Anyone looking to move to a vegan diet is advised to do their research first to ensure they are consuming the correct levels of dietary nutrients required (Johnson, 2018).

As more of the general population and athletes switch to a plant-based diet, there will no doubt be more research emerging in this field soon. It is worth bearing in mind that the nutritional value of any animal or plant-based product will depend on its source and quality which can be hard to establish when reading available studies and other literature in this field.

The rise of veganism

This January 400,000 people signed up to Veganuary, a campaign which encourages people to try going vegan for a month in the hope that they will keep up the change. This figure has risen from 250,000 participants in 2019 with 47% of those reporting staying vegan post-January (Veganuary, 2019).

In 2018, 16% of all new food launches were vegan, a double from 8% in 2017 (Mintel, 2019). Brands such as KFC, Galaxy and Greggs have been seen to be ‘cashing in’ on new vegan products, bringing out meat-free alternatives such as the famous vegan sausage roll and KFC’s ‘zero chicken’ burger. T

What information can we trust?

Evidently, there is a huge amount of money in the food industry and it is often questioned whether research is carried out with a commercial bias in mind.

So, what information can we trust?

If members would like to know more about the benefits of certain diets, we would advise researching the topic as thoroughly as possible or seeking advice from a Nutritional Therapist or other expert in diet or nutrition. In order to give nutritional advice to clients, you must hold an appropriate qualification to do so.

It is also important to note that researchers are legally required to disclose whether they are affiliated with an organisation to ensure studies are as credible as possible, and this information is usually located at the end of a study.

References For full references, go to fht.org.uk/IT-132-plant-based Spring 2020

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?

Q&A

Ask an expert Business and therapy advice for our members.

Q I

have a client who regularly cancels at the last minute.

What should I do?

Jane Sheehan, author of Sole Trader, says:

A: We’ve all had clients who are consistently late or fail to show up.

While I accept that life can sometimes get in the way, each time you keep your diary free for a client who is a regular ‘no show’, you are being deprived of valuable income and another client misses out on the opportunity to have a much-needed treatment.

You have several courses of action open to you: ■ Ring the morning of the appointment to remind them ■ Charge a cancellation fee ■ Collect their treatment fee prior to booking any future appointments ■ Refuse to rebook.

I will not ring a client if they miss an appointment. If it is genuine, they will ring back full of apologies, to rebook. If it is not genuine, they do not rebook.

If you find charging a cancellation fee difficult, my friend asks that the cheque is made payable to her preferred charity, so that she doesn’t benefit from the payment. She finds it much easier when she knows that the money is going to a good cause.

If a client cancels and they are normally reliable, you can send a card or message to say ‘sorry you had to cancel your recent appointment. It’s always good to see you – please give me a call to rebook’.

Highlighting your cancellation policy at a client’s first appointment is a good way of starting as you mean to go on.

■ For more business tips from Jane and the chance to win a copy of her book, Sole Trader, see page 38.

Want to share with other FHT members your tips on how to manage clients who cancel at the last minute?

Email Leanne Sheill at lsheill@fht.org.uk

Q I

am a multi-disciplined therapist. Do I need to achieve 10 CPD points for each therapy I practice?

FHT’s Education Executive, Heidi Hinton, says:

A: We ask that within your annual CPD activities you ensure that you have developed in relation to all of the therapies you practice.

However, you do not need to complete 10 CPD points for each therapy you are qualified in – just a total of 10 CPD points overall.

It is handy to know that ‘generic’ CPD will develop you in all of your therapy disciplines. Examples of generic CPD include first aid courses, business development, anatomy and physiology learning, and more.

For example, if you are qualified in body massage and reflexology, you would need to ensure that you are developing in both of these therapy disciplines. For instance, one year, you might write up a massage case study (5 points), attend a workshop on reflexology (4 points – 1 point an hour), and complete an A&P spiral quiz in International Therapist (1 point). The following year, you might complete a first aid qualification for therapists (15 points).

Q

I am an aromatherapist and recently discovered I’m pregnant. Which oils should I avoid and which are safe to use?

Mary Dalgleish, FHT Vice President and aromatherapist, says: A: Although pregnancy is sometimes seen as a ‘no go’ area for aromatherapy treatments, essential oils can provide many benefits throughout pregnancy, as well as during labour and in the postnatal period.

The same cautions that apply when giving aromatherapy treatments to pregnant clients also apply to the pregnant therapist, including which oils are safe to use, their dilution and keeping the treatment room well ventilated.

The main concerns during pregnancy are that some essential oils have hormone-like activity, which may disturb the finely tuned balance of hormones in the pregnant body, or that the oils may harm the foetus or cause miscarriage.

Some essential oils do have hormone-like behaviour, for example, oestrogenic activity has been found in anethole-rich oils such as aniseed and sweet fennel, so these should be avoided during pregnancy. It is also recommended that clary sage and jasmine aren’t used until labour or post-labour, if desired, as they have the potential to trigger uterine contractions.

Essential oils can cross the placental barrier and potentially affect the foetus. However, the amount of essential oil that actually enters the mother’s bloodstream is tiny and therefore the amount reaching the placenta is miniscule, if proper dilutions are used. There are no recorded instances of harm being caused to an unborn child through essential oils used in

For further information and guidance, see fht.org.uk/cpd 24 International therapist

Spring 2020

?

Q&A

aromatherapy treatments.

There is also no conclusive evidence that essential oils are abortifacient when used as part of an aromatherapy treatment and those labelled as abortifacient are potentially toxic and not used in aromatherapy practice. These include sassafras, wormwood, cassia, pennyroyal, mustard and elecampane.

There is some confusion over the safety of lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia Vera) in pregnancy and at one time its use was discouraged because it was considered emmenagogic (promotes menstruation). Juniper was also advised against because it is diuretic and it was thought that it could reduce the amount of amniotic fluid in the body. However, there is no evidence to back up either of these concerns and again, if used in correct dilutions, these oils pose no problem at any stage of pregnancy.

The skin is often more delicate and sensitive during pregnancy, even in those with no history of sensitive skin.

Chamomile and tea tree essential oils can cause skin irritation or sensitisation in some individuals, so adjust the concentration or don’t use if these cause a reaction. Similarly, avoid using oils

Spring 2020

that contain high levels of phenols, ethers and aromatic aldehydes, as they can irritate the skin due to their molecular shape. These oils include oregano, thyme, clove, cinnamon (leaf and bark), cumin, aniseed, fennel, star anise, sweet birch and wintergreen.

Sage and hyssop contain aromatic ketones, which can be stored in the body if used daily for lengthy periods, so are best avoided.

During pregnancy, the recommended dilution is 1% or less for all skin applications and no more than four drops of essential oil in a dispersant when bathing.

During pregnancy, you may have a heightened sense of smell, so a 1% blend will be less offensive to your olfactory system. It is also best not to use any one oil continuously for more than three weeks. Your clients will still benefit therapeutically from treatment when using a 1% dilution and if you need to avoid one or two oils, as there is a wide variety of ‘safe’ oils to choose from.

It is generally accepted that citrus oils are safe during pregnancy and these have no reported adverse

effects on mother or her unborn baby. The following oils, if used in correct dilutions, are safe during pregnancy: benzoin, bergamot, black pepper, chamomile (Roman and German), eucalyptus, frankincense, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, juniper, lavender (Lavandula angustifolia Vera), lemon, mandarin, marjoram, neroli, petitgrain, rose otto, sandalwood, sweet orange, tea tree and ylang ylang. However, it is important to bear in mind that much depends on the individual and what is appropriate for one person may not be for another.

If you offer other treatments within your practice, your pregnancy may be an ideal opportunity to cut back on aromatherapy treatments and encourage your clients to try other therapies that don’t involve the use of essential oils and may put less strain on your own body.

Ultimately, you need to feel comfort– able and do what makes you feel safe during your own pregnancy. T General guidelines for treating pregnant clients are available at fht.org.uk/members-area

International therapist 25

Pictures and Illustrations: Shutterstock

"During pregnancy, the recommended dilution is 1% or less for all skin applications and no more than four drops of essential oil in a dispersant when bathing."

Therapy

Therapy Aid THERAPY AID

THERAPYAID

Jackie Hamilton, MFHT, talks about supporting unpaid carers through her not-for-profit organisation, TherapyAid.

I

attended a one-day therapy workshop in 1997 and have been hooked on therapies ever since. I originally trained in beauty therapy, reflexology, aromatherapy and Indian head massage, all while working fulltime. Shortly after qualifying I left to work for myself, teaching therapies in schools and colleges around Essex, before opening my own school, the Jackie Hamilton School of Therapies, in Norfolk in 2005.

26 International therapist

Attending the FHT Conference in 2018 had such an effect on me that it sparked the next step in my career. The talks by Dr Michael Dixon and Sir Sam Everington on integrated healthcare particularly stayed in my mind. They encouraged us to ‘win over the hearts’ of medical professionals by communicating the incredible benefits therapies can have on patients and the NHS. It was a life-affirming moment, and soon after that I came together with 30 other local therapists to brainstorm

HEALTHCARE STARTS WITH SELFCARE

how we could integrate further with the medical profession.

Starting out We had our first official meeting in January 2019 with no agenda, as I had no idea where to start. Despite this, the meeting was very productive. I heard for the first time about Patient Participation Groups (PPG) which seemed an ideal way to meet practice managers at local surgeries. I asked everyone who attended to join their local surgery’s PPG with the Spring 2020

Therapy

Benefits to carers Giving unpaid carers some dedicated time to de-stress puts them in a better position to care for their loved ones, and means they are more likely to stay in better health themselves.

Sarah, who cares for her autistic son, said, ‘TherapyAid helped to stop the chatter in my head, I feel like I can think straight for the first time in ages.

‘It’s made me feel like myself again,

listened to. It’s helped me cope with the stress of being a full-time carer.’

Denise, a 75-year-old carer, said, ‘I have been my husband’s main carer for over 10 years, leaving me busy, tired and stressed.

‘I often meet other carers in the same position, and they have no help in the house. It is a hidden problem that carers get very tired in themselves.

‘I hadn’t had reflexology before and was amazed at the benefits received

from this treatment. I am sleeping much better and feeling more relaxed, my general wellbeing has greatly improved. I hope that other carers can benefit from this treatment too.’

Paul, who cares for his wife, said, ‘I was very sceptical before I started having treatments and was surprised how differently I felt, mentally and physically.

‘I didn’t even realise that I needed the time-out and I have more patience with my wife now.’

members, and some are disabled or elderly people whose own health often comes last on the agenda. A typical day for a carer involves them worrying about the person they care for, getting frustrated with the lack of support they receive and focusing on getting through the day with a lack of sleep.

We support people from the ages of eight to 98 in their home and in nearby clinics. Sessions last one hour and the carers can choose between massage, reflexology, Indian head massage, reiki, Bowen, hypnotherapy, aromatherapy or acupuncture. They can access the

Above: Jackie Hamilton receiving MHFT Complementary Therapist of the Year

hope that at least one out of ten would be amenable. I knew that if we didn’t try, the answer would always be no.

We were achieving small milestones, but I knew that it could be a long road to achieve our end goal. I thought while we are waiting for change, why not get some funding and start supporting people who don’t realise the benefits of what we do? I asked two of my tutors, ‘shall we start a not-for-profit organisation and start treating people who can’t afford therapies?’ They replied a resounding ‘yes!’

TherapyAid TherapyAid was officially launched in May 2019 at a mini conference I organised called Together we are Stronger. My key speaker was none other than Norman Lamb MP, who commented, ‘what you can offer, as therapists, can be life changing and in a way make life really worth living, so I strongly endorse what you are trying to do through this project and congratulations for getting it underway’.

TherapyAid is currently a not-forprofit organisation run by a network of professional therapists, providing five free complementary therapy sessions to unpaid carers.

We decided our focus should be supporting unpaid carers because there are 100,000 in Norfolk alone, who save our local social services £1.6 billion a year. And they’re just the carers we are aware of, there’s a lot of people that don’t consider themselves carers because they believe they are ‘just looking after a loved one.’

Some carers are children who come home from school and look after family Spring 2020

TherapyAid service by email, phone, or through an online application submitted by a referrer such as social services or a local care organisation. We get quite a lot of carers message us on social media too, which is fantastic.

About our team Our invaluable team consists of 40 therapists across Norfolk, the majority of who are FHT members. All our therapists are self-employed and work on an ad-hoc International therapist 27

Therapy

Tips for therapists

If you’re looking to launch a not-forprofit organisation, here are my tips on how to start.

1 Get a group of like-minded professional therapists together 2 Find a mission/vision 3 Think of a name 4 Once you have the name get your website domain sorted - it costs about £5.

5 Set up an email address.

6 Set up a not-for-profit bank account 7 Set up a Facebook page and start posting 8 Attend networking events 9 Start fundraising 10 Apply for funding 11 Apply for charitable status

basis. I have been very lucky in that I have run my school for many years and have graduates from all over the county, as well as connections with many other therapists, which has really helped us build our pool of staff.

While carers receive free treatments, the therapist is paid £25 for four of the five sessions provided - we ask that they provide one session as a donation to TherapyAid. Many of our therapists have been carers themselves, which really helps them to understand our clients. For example, one of our therapists has cared for her husband for 20 years, another is a parent to an autistic child. They make a wonderful team and have a fantastic understanding of what we are trying to achieve through TherapyAid.

Funding TherapyAid We applied for funding from Norwich Charitable Trust before officially setting up TherapyAid, which is effectively a pot of money that can only be accessed by residents of Norwich city. We were very lucky to have been granted £7,350 to help us provide therapies to unpaid carers in Norwich.

Before we received the funding, we thought ‘let’s just start with ten or so clients around Norwich’ but we soon realised we could do a lot more. Despite 28 International therapist

being able to grow more quickly than we first thought, we knew we had to keep raising money. At the end of 2019 we held a therapy weekend and a quiz night which raised a combined total of £1,600.

Fundraising is ongoing and something that is always at the forefront of our minds, to the point that when my dad passed away in December, I asked for donations to TherapyAid instead of flowers. When tutors use my school premises, I put the fees they pay into TherapyAid. We also have donation boxes throughout the school and students are encouraged to have donation boxes in their treatment rooms. The money raised through these efforts has so far helped us to branch out to Norfolk, Great Yarmouth, North Norfolk, Breckland and Broadland.

We have become a community interest company (CIC) as we go through the process of applying for charity status. A CIC is a type of company introduced by the government in 2005 designed for social enterprises that want to use their profits and assets for the public good.

We are hopeful that our charity status will be approved and that our Together we are Stronger Facebook group will encourage others to set up similar projects. T

Visit jackiehamilton.co.uk for more information about Jackie’s school and therapyaid.co.uk for more about TherapyAid.

What are your thoughts?

Do you have any comments or suggestions you’d like to share with other members on these topics? Please email Leanne at lsheill@fht.org.uk writing ‘TherapyAid’ in the subject box.

Jacki Hamilton, MFHT, runs her own therapy teaching practice in Norfolk called the Jackie Hamilton School of Therapies. In 2019, Jackie set up the not-for-profit organisation, TherapyAid, which provides therapies to carers. Jackie was awarded 2019 FHT Complementary Therapist of the year at the FHT Excellence Awards.

Jackie is also coordinator of the Norwich local group.

Spring 2020

Essential oil profile

Jasmine

(Jasminum officinale)

Originating from Asia, the jasmine plant produces small green leaves and delicate white flowers that are prized for their beautiful scent.

Jasmine flowers have been used by various cultures since antiquity for personal adornment and religious ceremonies, and to relieve respiratory complaints and skin wounds. They have also been used in classic perfumery since the 16th century.

Jasmine absolute is produced from the hand-picked flowers through solvent extraction. It is often referred to as the ‘King of Oils’, which Davis (2005) attributes to its ‘masculine nature’, being viscous, dark orange-brown in colour, with an ‘animal quality’ and long-lasting aroma.

Like rose, it is one of the most expensive oils to purchase, due to the volume of flowers required to produce just a small amount. For the same reason, the oil can be subject to adulteration, so it is important to always source from a reputable supplier.

Jasmine is often favoured by aromatherapists for its strong antidepressant and aphrodisiac properties. A number of sources indicate that the oil is an ideal choice for clients who have sexual problems or loss of libido stemming from anxiety, fear, depression or tension, however it is also helpful for those who have mild depression, are indecisive or lack confidence.

In skincare, jasmine is good for dry and sensitive skin, believed to promote elasticity and reduce the appearance of stretchmarks and scarring.

Like rose essential oil, jasmine has an affinity with the female reproductive system.

Therapeutic properties

Depression Sexual problems

Antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, calming, galactagogue, hormone-like, sedative, tonic (uterine).

Botanical family Oleacea

Chemical composition Esters – benzyl acetate, benzyl benzoate, linalyl acetate, methyl jasmonate Alcohols – phytols, linalool, geraniol Ketones – cis-jasmone Other – indole Phenols – eugenol The chemical composition of any essential oil or absolute can vary greatly, according to the plant species; climate, altitude and soil where the plant is grown; and when it is harvested. Refer to the manufacturer’s safety data sheet for a breakdown of an oil’s chemical profile.

Spring 2020

Indications Amenorrhea, anxiety, childbirth, confidence (lack of), coughs, depression, dysmenorrhoea, frigidity, impotence, lethargy, loss of libido, post-natal depression, restlessness, skin (dry, sensitive), scarring, stretch marks.

Blends with Clary sage, lavender, melissa, rose, sandalwood, ylang-ylang.

Safety data Tisserand and Young (2014) indicate that jasmine absolute is ‘a moderate-risk skin sensitiser that has caused problems in 0–1.2% of people with dermatitis when tested at 2 or 3%. There may be

a slightly higher risk from jasmine absolutes to people of Asian origin, compared to those with black or Caucasian skins. However considering the issue of adulteration in jasmine absolute […] it is possible that adulterants might have played a part in some of the allergic reactions reported.’

Several sources indicate the oil is useful during childbirth but should not be used during pregnancy, as it is a uterine stimulant.

Research Despite its reputation as a useful antidepressant and aphrodisiac, there is sadly

little research available for jasmine absolute. Most of the studies cited by Tisserand and Young in Essential Oil Safety (2014) relate to skin sensitivity, which has perhaps been the preferred field of study, as the plant’s aromatic properties are commonly used in cosmetics and perfumes.

There are some studies that indicate the plant may be useful for wound contraction and healing (Mortazavi H et al, 2020) and for its antimicrobial (Gunasekara T et al, 2017) and antibacterial properties (Khan UA et al, 2013), however these have focused on extracts from the plant’s leaves rather than flowers. T

NB: Only members who hold an appropriate aromatherapy qualification, accepted by the FHT for membership and insurance purposes, can make, use and supply aromatherapy blends and other products containing essential oils.

For references and further reading, visit fht.org.uk/IT-references International therapist 29

Illustration: Shutterstock

Key uses

Efficient posture Allyn Edwards and Sue Weller provide an introduction to core postural alignment and how poor posture can affect the abdominal viscera.

30 International therapist

Spring 2020

When working in an office enviroment

Anatomy & Physiology

C

ore postural alignment (CPA) is a very gentle form of bodywork that aims to restore and maintain an efficient upright posture for optimum health. While the technique has been through several refinements and name changes over the years, it stems from the work of two pioneering chiropractors, Dr John Hurley and his wife, Dr Helen Sanders, in the 1920s.

PEP talk Originally a structural and mechanical engineer, John Hurley was interested in how gravity interacts with the structure of the body. Newton’s third law of motion states that ‘for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction’. This means that as gravity is pulling us down towards the centre of the earth, there is an equal and opposite force pushing us away from it – something that is known as the ‘ground reaction force’.

If the relationship between gravity and the ground reaction force is optimal, then they balance each other out and the body will appear to be ‘weightless’ and at ease. It will display both poise and grace and require the least amount of resources to hold itself upright. In engineering, using the least amount of resources is described as efficiency. In CPA, we describe the most efficient posture as the static upright physiological efficient posture (PEP).

When a PEP is lost, as a result of injury, trauma, or long-term physical, chemical or emotional stress, the body is pushed into a state of allostasis, which means all of the body’s systems have to work much harder to restore balance.

If we were to stand someone in front of a plumb line, a PEP would look something like the illustration on page 32.

The plumb line would bisect the body equally, left to right, and the head, shoulders and hips would be level and parallel. Side on, it would pass through

Cell

Spring 2020

Lymph

the middle of the ear, shoulder, hip, knee and ankle. Or, more precisely: Posteriorly, the external occipital protuberance, the seventh cervical spinous process, the fifth lumbar spinous process, the first sacral median crest and the gluteal crease.

Laterally, the external auditory meatus, the sulcus intertubercular of the humerus, the greater trochanter of the femur, the anterior proximal tibiofibular joint and the talocalcaneal sulcus.

John and Helen discovered that when the body has a PEP, two specific anatomical points within the pelvic region have a particular dynamic relationship to each other. In CPA we refer to this relationship as the primary alignment. If this relationship becomes lost, then the body loses its PEP. During a CPA session, we assess and then restore the client’s PEP, drawing on John and Helen’s knowledge of chiropractic, anatomy and physiology, engineering and what we would now call myofascial release.

'While the technique has been through several refinements and name changes over the years, it stems from the work of two pioneering chiropractors, Dr John Hurley and his wife, Dr Helen Sanders, in the 1920s.' releasing the persistent distortion patterns in the major postural muscles. This uses a unique finger-tip pressure to release the myofascia.

Appraisal

CPA consultation

Assessment

It begins with a simple, yet quantifiable, postural assessment using a plumb line. Once it has been established where the primary alignment is displaced, then the position of a Assessment neuromuscular holding point can be calculated along with a full postural prescription.

Alignment The client lays prone on a treatment couch while an alignment is given.

An alignment consists of maintaining a gentle contact on the relevant neuromuscular holding point while

Blood

Liver

Gall bladder

Following the alignment, a postalignment assessment is made and the improvement can be instantly measured and recorded.

Posture and the cloacal response The ‘cloacal response’ is an old-fashioned term for the body’s natural ability to detoxify itself via the bowels. Being placental animals, humans only have an embryonic cloaca, which divides to form the rectum, bladder and genitalia.

The typical pathway a toxin takes from being in a cell to being excreted from the body is as seen in the flow chart below:

Bile

Bowel

Exit

International therapist 31

Anatomy & Physiology

If the flow is impeded at any of these stages, then the system will back up and the toxin will not be able to leave the cell.

Postural distortion can lead to a problem at any or all of these stages.

A typical sequence of lateral postural changes can be seen in diagram 1 below. Initially, the paraspinal muscles – namely the iliocostalis, longissimus and multifidus – will tighten to hold the body upright against the pull of gravity.

If the alignment isn’t corrected then the larger postural muscles are recruited, such as the abdominals, psoas, lattismus dorsi and the diaphragm. It is important to note these changes are not related to age but rather to the amount of strain on the body as a result of losing its PEP. This can happen at any age. Once a PEP is lost, the strain to the system causes distortion (as outlined above) and the distortion itself puts further strain on the system, which becomes self-perpetuating.

We refer to this as the strain-distortionstrain cycle, which gives rise to the postural compensation patterns we see in our practice rooms. These can lead to neurological, myofascial and mechanical dysfunctions, resulting in problems with joints, muscles, fascia, the internal organs and physiology.

As you can see from diagram 1, there are plenty of changes occurring in the body. For this article we are particularly interested in the changing positions of the abdominal organs and diaphragm as the posture becomes increasingly distorted.

It can be clearly seen that the angle of the ribs, and therefore the position of the diaphragm and the abdominal viscera, sit in a more inferior position. The internal pelvis can be thought of as a shelf on which the internal organs sit. When tilted anteriorly, the shelf tips and the organs slide, resulting in a sagging of the visceral organs, which is known as Visceroptosis visceroptosis.

The domino effect of visceroptosis Visceroptosis makes it much more difficult for an organ to function properly and to act in concert with the other organs, all of which affects the body’s 32 International therapist

The PEP as seen at plumb line diagram 1

ability to process and eliminate toxins and other waste.

The lymph Visceroptosis of the diaphragm leads to a constriction of the aortic hiatus, which in turn impacts the thoracic lymphatic duct.

The thoracic lymphatic duct is the main lymphatic channel from the lower extremities and the abdomen, transporting four litres of lymphatic fluid per day. It plays an important role in bringing the lymphatic fluid back to the heart where the lymph is mixed with the blood and re-circulated. The movement of the lymph is mainly controlled by breathing, and for maximum movement of the diaphragm (and therefore the functioning of the thoracic lymphatic duct), a PEP is the ideal posture. A study in 1979 by prominent lymphologist, Dr Jack Shield, showed that deep diaphragmatic breathing, which is not possible with diaphragmatic visceroptosis, creates a vacuum effect that pulls the lymph superiorly (upwards).

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Anatomy & Physiology

restore and maintain primary alignment, allowing the diaphragm and abdominal organs to resume a more normal position and relationship with each other, and gravity, leading to improved function.

During an alignment, the practitioner administers gentle signals to the body around the postural muscles, including the abdominals, which stimulates the lymphatics, encouraging cells to release their toxins into the bloodstream. The blood flows more freely to the liver, the liver is able to function more efficiently, and the bile duct can secrete more bile into the intestines. Peristalsis can resume at a better rate, encouraging greater and more complete motility throughout the bowel with an eventual improved cloacal response.

Additional benefits of CPA

The liver, gall bladder and bile

The blood

Bowel function itself can be upset by visceroptosis, along with disturbances to the lumbo-sacral and pudendal plexi, the sympathetic nerve supply from Thoracic 10 to Lumbar 2, and the parasympathetic nerve supply from the vagus nerve and Sacral 2 to Sacral 4. Peristalsis is often impaired leading to chronic constipation or diarrhoea.

Changes to the attachments of the puborectalis muscle also alters the anorectal angle, impeding evacuation.

Visceroptosis can impact the carval hiatus of the diaphragm and the inferior vena cava. During normal inspiration, the inferior vena cava is stretched open and this increases the size of the vessel, drawing more blood up towards the right atrium. This has the effect of ‘milking’ the inferior vena cava superiorly, aiding venous return. Reduction in this function can potentially lead to blood becoming trapped in the lower extremities and abdomen, resulting in chronic passive venous congestion, poor venous return or neurocirculatory asthenia.

Spring 2020

The function of the liver, gall bladder and bile can be impeded by visceroptosis, as well as disturbances to the lumbo-sacral plexus, the sympathetic nerve supply from Thoracic 6 to Thoracic 10, and the parasympathetic nerve supply from the vagus nerve and Sacral 2 to Sacral 4.

The bowel and elimination

Restoring primary alignment Over a course of alignments, CPA aims to

Allyn Edwards and Sue Weller are both registered chiropractors and have been refining and teaching core postural alignment (CPA) since 1998.

CPA is an FHT accredited short course and is open to practising therapists who hold a bodywork qualification. www.coreposturalalignment.com

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Main picture and Illustrations: Shutterstock

Constriction of the thoracic lymphatic duct can cause oedema of the legs and feet, as well as congestion in the organs of the abdomen and pelvis. There can also be a pooling of the lymph in the cisterna chyli leading to a back up of lymphatic fluid.

With a forward head posture there can also be constriction of the right and left lymphatic ducts.

Of course, removing postural distortions and restoring primary alignment have many more benefits than just to the cloacal response.

Joints can be re-aligned more easily as you are not working against the paraspinal muscles. Muscle release techniques are more effective, as the larger postural muscles can release the holding patterns they have had to adopt. The twists and restrictions in the fascia are more easily removed as there is less postural disturbance to the fascial system holding them there.

Postural re-education is easier as the body isn’t trying to avert collapse. As the energy channels within the body are lined up, the body will accept energybased techniques more easily. Wellness will be enhanced because of increased vital capacity, improved circulation, lymphatic drainage, a decrease in visceroptosis and a return to homeostasis. T

Survey

And our survey says…

We reveal key findings from the 2020 FHT Member Survey.

T

hank you to the 626 members who took the time to respond to our 2020 FHT Member Survey.

The annual survey is really important to us all at FHT, as it gives us an insight into what matters most to you. This helps us to improve our membership services and continue to represent you in the best way possible, providing true value for money.

What causes and values are most important to you?

Employment status

87% Self-employed

10% 9%

If you ever feel isolated why not attend or set up an FHT local support group in your area, where you can gain much-needed support, learn about new therapies and share ideas.

Therapists being valued – being respected by the medical profession and the wider public comes high on the list of importance.

Where do you provide treatment?

13%

Promoting a wellness lifestyle – living well is important to our overall health and can make a huge difference to the symptoms we see some of our clients coming to see us with.

In your clients’ home

42%

7%

In your own home

Mental health – FHT members are seeing more clients who are struggling with their mental health, as well as noticing a rise in mental health issues in the wider world.

In a health and wellbeing centre

9% In your own business premises 8%

7%

Using organic and sustainable products – tying in nicely with doing your bit for the environment, making sure to only use organic and sustainable products in your practices is important to FHT members.

In an office or other business premises (e.g. corporate massage)

What’s important to you as a member?

99%

FHT members adhere to a respected Code of Conduct and Professional Practice

14%

Environmental issues – considering the environment within your practice. Our members practice a range of environmentally friendly initiatives, from using less plastic to washing towels on a lower temperature.

About you…

46%

46%

Offering a good service to clients – values such as honesty, integrity and kindness arose frequently. Providing an excellent service and continuing to meet the needs of clients was important to members.

96%

FHT runs an Accredited Register, which has been independently approved by the Professional Standards Authority

96%

Being kept up to date with industry news via International Therapist magazine

94%

FHT provides an education programme for CPD

92%

FHT campaigns for its members in political, educational and therapy forums

The above results show just how much you value robust industry standards and keeping up to date with the latest information and skills.

34 International therapist

Spring 2020

Survey

Your issues and concerns as a therapist

19%

Growing and marketing my business

16%

Poor standards in professional practice and training, which affects the reputation of professional therapists and the industry

16%

Keeping skills up to date and completing CPD

13%

Lack of recognition from medical and other professionals, which in turn has an impact on integrating therapies into mainstream healthcare

13%

Personal health and safety

12% Client wellbeing and satisfaction About your clients‌

The most popular treatments with clients

50% Reflexology

46% Body massage

You describe your clients as people seeking support with

70% Long-term health conditions 60% Relaxation or pampering 52% A preventative approach to health 28% Taking part in amateur or recreational sport 6% Aesthetic improvement You regularly support clients

82% With stress and anxiety 65% With low back pain 54% With joint problems/mobility issues 38% Who regularly engage in exercise or sport 37% With a diagnosed mental health condition (e.g. depression or dementia)

36% Caring for family and friends 27% Affected by cancer 26% Who are health professionals (e.g. nurses) 25% With sports-related injuries These results show a wide range of ways you help to support clients' health and allows us to demonstrate this to both the public and key influencers in healthcare.

About International Therapist

32% Aromatherapy

32% Reiki or healing

99%

of you feel that the quality, photographs, design, articles and advertising are either good or very good

82%

of you read each issue of International Therapist for 21 minutes or more (with 32% reading it for more than an hour)

Most popular regulars

25% Indian head massage

21% Sports massage

73% Ask an expert 66% Research 65% CPD questions 58% Industry news 58% Medical A-Z

22% Remedial massage 14% Facials (beauty) Reflexology is the most popular treatment with clients, narrowly overtaking last year’s number one therapy, body massage.

Spring 2020

80% Treatment/therapy-focused articles 68% General wellbeing 63% Self-help 61% Case studies 59% Research International therapist 35

Illustration: Shutterstock

Most useful feature articles

Local Groups

Local groups ScarWork talk and demonstration at Wrexham The Wrexham local group welcomed local therapist, Sarah Roberts BSc Hons, who gave a talk on ScarWork, writes Wrexham Coordinator Carole Roberts.

Sarah is the owner of the successful Estyn Wellbeing Centre, based in Wrexham. She began by explaining that ScarWork was first developed by a lady called Sharon Wheeler and that it looks to improve the feel and function of scars underneath the skin.

Sarah spent the evening sharing her passion and explaining the therapy. Her interest in this technique started as a

result of observing the impact of breast cancer surgery on a family member, who was finding her residual scarring very painful. Sarah started learning more about the therapy and became ScarWork

accredited in June 2019.

The main message of the evening was that physically carrying a scar can cause emotional and mental trauma and that this gentle massage treatment can have beneficial effects for the client, regardless of how many years the scar has been there. The feedback from the group was very positive and we wish to thank Sarah for taking the time to speak at our meeting. â– Read an article about ScarWork therapy at fht.org.uk/IT-125-scarwork.

Nottingham group members learn about how the gut can affect the skin Our local group enjoyed a talk from dermatologist and business owner, Corina Lucian, about the connection between the gut, skin, and emotional health writes Nottingham Coordinator Jacky Huson.

Corina graduated from a university in Romania in 1993 before gaining experience with a paediatric dermatologist, specialising in how to treat

teenage acne. She then moved to the UK and used her skills and experience to set up her business, Corina Lucian SkinCare.

Launching our 2020 programme, Corina gave a talk to 20 of our group members on her research and insights into the relationship between gut health, skin and mood. She referred to Dr Ese Stacey's article, Gut Reaction, in the Winter 2020 issue of IT magazine, which explains how

stubborn eczema, facial rosacea and acne are related to gut dysbiosis and low-grade chronic inflammation.

To identify gut imbalances in her clients, Corina uses a health questionnaire which is focused around lifestyle. We all completed the questionnaire and found it an edifying experience. The questionnaire is used to highlight lifestyle changes that could be made, as well as suggest possible supplements to support diet and help to improve skin conditions.

We all learnt a lot from Corina and are very grateful to her for delivering a talk to our local group.

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Spring 2020

Local Groups FIND YOUR LOCAL GROUP Local groups are a valuable hub for all those with a passion for therapies.

Hear from excellent speakers about the latest therapies and business ideas, take part in outings and social events, enjoy treatment swaps and share best practice.

Cancer care in Hereford

Discovering Ayurveda with Katie Chester It was a small group of us for Katie Chester’s talk on Ayurveda, due to the adverse weather conditions caused by storm Ciara, write South Oxon local group Coordinators, Rhonda Hinson and Chris West.

Katie explained the basic philosophy of Ayurveda and marma points, giving demonstrations and providing useful handouts.

We learnt that Ayur means life and Veda means knowledge, or science. It is the oldest healthcare system on the planet, going back five thousand years. It combines nutrition, yoga, herbal remedies, breathing exercises, meditation and massage to heal the body and spirit.

We filled out a questionnaire to determine our dosha type. During our Spring 2020

EAST OF ENGLAND Colchester Ely Essex Hertfordshire Luton Newmarket Norwich

of Commons in 2016, to promote the integrated health care agenda. She would love to see more practitioners documenting their successes so that the body of information about the fantastic work that can be done gets the recognition it deserves.

The message of the day was that we should document our treatments well, using patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) if possible or by writing up case studies. The overall goal is to share this information so that the industry becomes more widely recognised.

Working safely with cancer patients does require specialist knowledge and we would highly recommend the standard of teaching and knowledge that Angela demonstrated to us.

NORTH EAST Durham Newcastle Tees Valley

Picture: Shutterstock

Angela Green, an FHT accredited course provider, drove all the way from Cardiff to give a talk to our local group about how to work safely and effectively within a cancer and palliative care setting, writes group Coordinator Carina Stinchcombe.

Cancer support has been an area of medicine that has seen considerable integrations with complementary therapies. Patient wellbeing, emotional readjustment, sleep and pain management, to name a few, are all areas that can be well served by complementary therapies.

Angela is passionate about integrated health and gave a presentation to the former All-Party Parliamentary Group for Integrated Healthcare at the House

South East London

EAST MIDLANDS Alfreton Leicester Lincoln Northampton Nottingham

life these change due to age, lifestyle and where we live, among other factors. We looked at qualities of each of the doshas and were given tips to bring ourselves back into balance.

There are some 37 marma points on the head and 107 in total around the body.

In Ayurveda these are healing points, a network of subtle nerves which absorb and discharge energy. Katie demonstrated a few of the marma points on the head, which can help with sleep and calming.

There were lots of laughs throughout the evening, we all enjoyed the demonstration and found the talk very informative and interesting.

SOUTH EAST Basingstoke Brighton and Hove Chichester Dartford, Gravesham and Medway Eastbourne and South Downs Horsham and Crawley Isle of Wight North Kent Oxfordshire (South) Waterlooville Worthing

SOUTH WEST Bath Bournemouth Bristol NORTH WEST Ipplepen Blackpool Mendip Chester Liverpool and Rainhill Plymouth Salisbury Manchester (North) Swindon Manchester (South) Taunton Morecambe Bay Wigan, Leigh, WALES Rainford and St Newport Helens Pontyclun and District NORTHERN Swansea IRELAND Wrexham Antrim Belfast and District WEST MIDLANDS Lisnaskea Birmingham (South) South Tyrone Coventry Hereford IRELAND Stoke-on-Trent Donegal Stourbridge and Dudley SCOTLAND Ayrshire YORKSHIRE AND THE HUMBER LONDON Calderdale Brixton and Harrogate Kennington Kirklees North London Leeds North West York London

DID YOU KNOW?

Attending a local group meeting can gain you two CPD points if the subject relates to professional development.

Find out what subjects are covered as CPD at fht.org.uk/cpd.

CAN'T FIND A GROUP IN YOUR AREA?

Why not become a local group coordinator?

It is a very rewarding role, and there is a range of additional benefits available exclusively to coordinators. Go to fht.org.uk/create-your-own-local-group for more information.

MORE INFO

For group contact details and information about forthcoming meetings, go to fht.org.uk/local-groups

International therapist 37

Business

Put your best business foot forward Reflexologist and foot reader, Jane Sheehan, shares some business tips with FHT members from her recently updated book, Sole Trader.

I

have a birdwatcher friend called Martin who talks a lot of sense.

He was teaching me about the finer points of ‘twitching’. Twitchers are very serious birdwatchers who have a list of birds that they’d like to see in their lifetime. They set about systematically trying to tick off each of the birds on their list. Some have more than one list, for example a local list, a national list, a migration list and so on. He explained that there are different ways to go about birdwatching and the more you think about this, the more you realise that finding clients isn’t dissimilar.

Different ways to birdwatch

1 2 3 4 5

Stand outdoors and hope that if you stand there long enough, all the birds on your list will come to you (which is highly unlikely).

Find out more about each species and put out their favourite food to attract them (probably a more successful approach).

Find their preferred habitat and go there (Martin’s preferred option, which gives him a higher chance of finding what he’s looking for).

A fourth option, which I think Martin may consider ‘cheating’, would be to combine options two and three above and achieve an even better score!

Serious twitchers also have a network where they inform each other of birdwatching opportunities.

38 International therapist

Different ways to find clients

1 2 3 4 5

You can just set up your service with an ‘if I build it, they will come’ attitude, a bit like standing in a field hoping to find the right birds.

You can work out what your potential clients actually need, want or desire, and set that up as ‘bait’ to attract them.

You can investigate where you might find your ideal client. What’s their natural habitat? Take yourself out to where they are and you’ve more chance of finding your clients and them finding you.

Combine options two and three above and achieve a greater potential client base and even have them come to you.

Network with other non-competing therapists.

Spring 2020

Business

Actions: Who is your ideal client?

How can you reach them?

What offer can you give them to entice them to use your services?

Set up your cancellation policy.

Spring 2020

What’s your USP?

In marketing circles you’ll hear the term USP used quite a lot, which stands for unique selling point. Have a think about you and your business. What is it about you and your business that is unique? What is the discriminator that sets you apart?

Why should a potential client come to you rather than go to a competitor? When you know the answers to these questions, you will have identified your USP and be able to make all your potential clients aware of what it is. Why are you so unique that they should be beating a path to your door? Sometimes it’s one thing or sometimes it’s a set of things. Remember to drop it into all your conversations about your business, all your leaflets, business cards and client-facing messages.

Actions: What is you USP? How are you going to let your prospective clients know?

Synergistic offerings

Who do you know who offers services that would work in harmony with what you do? What I mean by this is who offers services that may be of benefit to your clients, that will enhance the service that you offer rather than compete with it?

For example, as a reflexologist and foot reader, I have a list of synergistic services that I can recommend to my clients, such as: ■ Nutritional Therapist ■ Chiropodist ■ Herbalist ■ Jewellery maker The latter is probably a less obvious synergistic, but we swap news about where the next local fair or event is and have stalls next to each other so that we can rave about each other to potential clients. People who like her jewellery tend to like my treatments.

Actions: Get to know synergistic service suppliers in your area and assess their reliability, honesty, integrity and expertise. Remember that in recommending them, your reputation is also at stake, so you need to make sure that you are happy to recommend them.

Before buying, see if you can enjoy greater discounts by teaming up with others and buying in bulk. T

MEMBERS’ PRIZE DRAW For a chance to win one of two copies of Jane’s book, Sole Trader – The Holistic Therapy Business Handbook (third edition), send your name and FHT membership number to Leanne Sheill at lsheill@fht.org.uk writing ‘Sole Trader’ in the subject box.

Closing date: 29 May 2020. Terms and conditions apply fht.org.uk/termsandconditions

About Jane Sheehan Jane Sheehan is a reflexologist who specialises in foot reading. She has appeared on national TV and spoken at international events on the topic of foot reading and runs an FHT accredited course in the subject. She is also the author of several books, including Let’s Read Our Feet and The Foot Reading Coach. www.footreading.com

International therapist 39

Illustrations: Shutterstock

Martin took me on a 24-hour bird race to ‘spot’ as many birds as possible in the given time. Within minutes we got into an argument about what constituted an acceptable ‘tick’. We hear the call of a great tit, ‘teach-er, teacher-er, teach-er’.

He recorded it on his list. I was horrified.

‘But you didn’t see it. That’s cheating’. He argued, ‘When your mum calls you on the phone, you don’t have to see her to know that it’s her.’

I learned that changing the way you do things can improve your success. It also got me thinking – when is a customer not a customer? Either when they purchase something and return it (although you give a refund and on paper it looks like you’ve lost nothing, you’ve lost the initial postage, time and, let’s face it, time is money, and unless the item is in pristine condition you’ll have to resell it at a discount), or when they make a booking and fail to show up or regularly cancel or postpone (you’ve therefore lost the opportunity to do something more profitable with that time slot).

There comes a point when you have to recognise that there are some clients who you can do without. Recognising them and having the courage to say ‘no’ is a learned skill but one that you need to develop rather quickly if you want your business to succeed. Even better would be to pre-determine a policy which will help you to avoid attracting such behaviour in the first place. For example, in the case of cancellations, maybe it would be good to have a clearly defined cancellation policy that the client is made aware of at the time of booking.

See Jane’s Ask an expert on page 24 for more information on no-show clients.

Courses

Ready, skill set, go!

Upcoming courses hosted by the FHT, helping you and your career flourish.

Please check online for updates…

Please note that due to coronavirus (COVID-19) there may be some changes to FHT Hosted Courses scheduled to take place over the coming months. We will be closely monitoring the situation and will let members know as soon as possible if any courses are affected and explain the options available to you. For the latest information, please visit fht.org.uk/course-listings

FHT hosted courses give you the opportunity to develop your skill set and grow your treatment offering.

The courses gain you one point per hour to go towards your continuing professional development (CPD) and FHT members benefit from a discount of at least £10 on each course.

Take a look at some of the courses we’re hosting. Visit our website to find more information on prerequisites, finer details and to discover further courses before securing your place.

Couch required Model required

RELAXATION, MEDITATION AND MINDFULNESS Discover relaxation, meditation and mindfulness skills to benefit your treatments and enhance your personal development. Learn techniques and advice to help your clients reach deeper levels of relaxation.

Course tutor: Christine Browne.

Course dates: ■ 4 July – Basingstoke Prices start from: £100

40 International therapist

Spring 2020

Courses

This CPD introduction to working with those affected by cancer covers the condition, the treatment, side effects and the ways in which therapists can help.

Course tutor: Jennifer Young.

Course dates: ■ 6 September – Milton Keynes ■ 18 October – Cardiff ■ 29 November – Liverpool Prices start from: £65

OSTEOPATHIC TECHNIQUES – SPORT AND SPINE Learn the most useful osteopathic soft tissue and articulation techniques, including techniques for the spine, pelvis and some peripheral joints, and how to personalise your treatments for different clients.

Course tutor: Cameron Reid.

Course dates: ■ 12 – 13 September – London ■ 26 – 27 September – Manchester ■ 10 – 11 October – Belfast ■ 21 – 22 November – Colchester Prices start from: £205

EMM-TECH SHORT COURSE FIRST AID FOR THERAPISTS – EMERGENCY FIRST AID AT WORK This course, which covers the full content of the emergency first aid at work training, is specifically designed for therapists in the therapy and salon environment.

Course tutor: Karen Murrell.

Course dates: ■ 17 October – Portsmouth Prices start from: £110

FOOT READING This course will give you another dimension into understanding the imbalances in your client's feet when the physical imbalances don't align with any problems that your client has.

Course tutor: Elie Pettitt.

Course dates: ■ 6 June – Milton Keynes Prices start from: £115

Spring 2020

Discover how the EMMETT technique addresses pain and body movement.

This course teaches eleven moves that have been specially selected from the EMMETT techniques practitioner course.

Course tutor: Penny Gibbons.

Course dates: ■ 11 July – Coventry Prices start from: £100

DISSECTION WORKSHOP This unique opportunity allows you to see the structure that you massage daily at King's College dissection lab before you are free to enjoy the Gordon Museum.

Course tutor: Jane Johnson.

Course dates: ■ 23 October - London Prices start from: £135

THE HEARTS PROCESS Learn how to bring about a sense of calm with well-intentioned touch and the sound of a calm voice, for situations when massage and aromatherapy is inappropriate.

Course tutor: Angela Pollard.

Course dates: ■ 12 – 13 September – Sunderland ■ 17 – 18 October – Leicester Prices start from: £200

DORN METHOD AND BREUSS MASSAGE Learn this non-manipulative treatment to correct misalignments of the spinal column and joints to support clients who suffer from conditions such as sciatica and common back, neck and joint issues.

Course tutor: Alexandra Schneider.

Course dates: ■ 26 – 27 September – Leeds Prices start from: £200

TABLE THAI STRETCH MASSAGE Learn how to use your body weight to apply a deeper, more effective massage and integrate Thai yoga techniques to give a massage that clients will love.

Course tutor: Kathryn Ellis.

Course dates: ■ 28 – 29 November – Peterborough Prices start from: £205

Visit fht.org.uk/training for our full list of courses and to book your place. T

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Main picture: Shutterstock

CANCER AWARENESS FOR HOLISTIC AND BEAUTY THERAPISTS

FHT Blog

SELF-HELP TECHNIQUES TO BOOST YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING AT HOME FHT Vice President Mary Dalgleish gives five top tips for looking after your own health and wellbeing while socially isolating. From reflexology and aromatherapy to small changes you can make to your diet and lifestyle, Mary covers it all.

CELEBRATING SOCIAL PRESCRIBING DAY FHT celebrated Social Prescribing Day on the 12 March alongside the College of Medicine, the Social Prescribing Network and many other organisations. To promote the benefits of social prescribing, we shared a video highlighting the positive impact it has for patients and the NHS. Social prescribing provides doctors with alternative and more appropriate ways to support a patient, such as signposting them to complementary therapies, encouraging them to join a walking club, or joining a Knit and Natter group. Schemes across the country have proven successful ways to improve the health and wellbeing of patients and to take pressure off the NHS.

Top blog

The FHT blog (fht.org. uk/blog) brings you the latest therapy news, health information and business resources. Here are some top posts that members have enjoyed in recent months...

FHT VICE PRESIDENT MARIA MASON LISTED IN TOP 100 BEAUTY INFLUENCERS OF 2020 FHT Vice President Maria Mason has been listed as a Top 100 Beauty Influencer by Professional Beauty.

Maria is an award-winning salon owner and was nominated by Professional Beauty members for being one of the people currently making the biggest impact in the beauty and spa market.

42 International therapist

STRESS AWARENESS MONTH 2020 As part of Stress Awareness Month this April, FHT helped members spread the word about how therapies can help support clients affected by stress.

According to our 2020 FHT Members’ Survey, 82% of members regularly treat clients with stress and/ or anxiety. Stress Awareness Month is a fantastic way to show current and prospective clients how therapies can help them to combat stress.

Spring 2020

FHT Blog

FIVE HEART WARMING STORIES DURING THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK At a time when much of what we see on the news has been doom and gloom, we wanted to share a few of the stories that have made us smile since the outbreak. Highlights include the three elderly ladies self-isolating in one house and the communities coming together to support each other.

TOOLS TO HELP YOU SUPPORT CLIENTS REMOTELY

DEVELOPMENT AND LEARNING FROM HOME Attending a course is a fantastic way to complete Continuing Professional Development (CPD), but did you know that you can also complete CPD from home?

FHT’s Education Executive, Heidi Hinton, shares her top tips for continuing professional development and learning at home.

While seeing clients in person is not possible during social distancing, we’re delighted to learn that many of our members have been starting to look at ways they can support them remotely, to help boost their physical and mental wellbeing and keep their spirits up during these difficult times.

In this blog item, we highlight some of the ways that you can work with clients remotely while still meeting the terms and conditions of your insurance with the FHT.

MEDITATION AT HOME

SUPPORTING YOU DURING THE COVOID-19 OUTBREAK The past month has been a difficult time for so many of us as a result of the social distancing measures put in place by the government. We understand that not being able to practice must be incredibly tough, both financially and not being able to support clients with the power of touch.

Throughout March and April, FHT has been sharing blogs to keep you updated with the latest coronavirus (COVID-19) news, business support and tips to manage your own health and wellbeing.

To read more, visit fht.org.uk/blog and enter a title to the search box.

Spring 2020

International therapist 43

Pictures and Illustrations: Shutterstock

What better time to put your own health and wellbeing at the top of your agenda? The ancient art of meditation can help decrease stress and lower blood pressure.

This blog item features free access to sunrise meditation, a practice by accredited course provider Marie Duggan from Butterfly Touch Therapies and reiki master Marion Eaton’s meditation, Ether to Spirit, which can also be found in International Therapist Winter 2020.

Beauty

Mindful beauty

Joanna Taplin, 2019 FHT Beauty Therapist of the Year, talks about her eco-beauty salon Sunshine for the Soul. around the house and the main bathroom was out of bounds! When my daughter started school, I began the whirlwind process of looking for my own premises.

About Sunshine Sunshine for the Soul (Sunshine) was set up five years ago as a true boutique. My clients are surrounded by flowers when they come for a treatment; the idea is that they feel as though they are sitting in the garden on a sunny day.

Eco-Beauty

Starting out I worked in salons full-time when I qualified, which helped to build up my career but proved tricky with having a young child. Changes in my homelife around the time my son started secondary school meant I needed to go freelance to fit in around him.

A few years later, I met my husband and fell pregnant with my little girl. The equipment soon became too heavy to carry around, so I started working from home. This worked out brilliantly when my daughter was born because family could come over and help and it meant I could still breastfeed between clients.

I loved offering my services from home, but it got to the stage where home didn’t really feel like home anymore. My family was given strict instructions to tiptoe 44 International therapist

products and it's very high end, in an old-fashioned kind of way. Many salons nowadays work to a conveyor belt system; the minute one treatment is about to end, the next is due to start. It drives me to despair because it’s an absolute luxury going for a treatment and clients should never be rushed. I truly believe that a client’s experience of Sunshine starts the moment they’ve made an appointment; their whole journey should be amazing, a completely holistic experience.

I’m the sole therapist at Sunshine and work by appointment only. It is a private clinic exclusively for ladies and I offer a full menu of treatments, from organic face and body treatments to advanced electrolysis and skintag removal. My favourite treatments are the healing modalities. I love reiki and crystal therapy and really enjoy giving my two-hour organic holistic facial. A facial is an understatement really, as the treatment starts with soaking the feet and finishes with an organic tea and plant-based muffin – it’s the quickest two hours of their lives!

It’s the ethos of Sunshine that sets it apart from other salons; I will only stock 100% natural and certified organic

Since opening Sunshine, I have only worked with companies that share the same ethos and whose products are 100% organic, vegan, and have absolutely no animal testing.

I’ve always had an interest in natural ingredients, but I only started looking into the ingredients of products properly when my father was diagnosed with cancer. I started a quest to find foods and products that would help ease his symptoms but was shocked to find that while many of the companies deemed their products to be natural, these were actually chemical laden. I discovered that legally, cosmetic products only need to have 1% natural or organic ingredients to be able to be sold as a natural or organic product.

After that point I knew I had to put time and effort into researching my stockists at Sunshine. My process is to find out more about the company online, looking for certification, and then I contact them directly. My chosen professional skincare company is Pinks Boutique.

For UK companies, I tend to look for approval by the Soil Association; it’s the highest certification of organic in the world and it means that every single ingredient, from the soil it has been grown in to the packaging, has been Spring 2020

Illustration: Shutterstock

I

’ve been interested in beauty since I was a little girl, but it wasn’t until my eldest started school that I decided to study a diploma in beauty therapy. I had already found my passion for researching cosmetic ingredients by the time I qualified in 1998 with the ‘student of the year’ award.

I was given a placement in a salon in my final year of studying where I spent most of my time working in reception, advising clients on what products would work best for them. It was important to know what went into each product so that I could tailor my suggestions to the individual.

A few years after qualifying I decided to study as an aromatherapist.

Aromatherapy is something I think you need to know as a beauty therapist, so that you can understand the core ingredients in products and how these work.

Beauty

Sunshine is a 'Love my Beach' business, a stamp to say Joanna considers the impact of the business on local beaches.

Spring 2020

International therapist 45

Beauty

Clients

Above Outside Joanna Taplin's salon, Sunshine for the Soul

At Sunshine I am constantly looking for new ways to be eco-friendly. approved by an officer. Learning all the organic standard grades from around the world has helped because once you’ve got that knowledge, you know whether you can trust a company. For example, my tan range, Eco by Sonia, comes from Australia and is certified as Australian food grade organic, which is a trusted certification process in Australia.

At Sunshine I am constantly looking for new ways to be eco-friendly. For instance, instead of using heavy towels for every client, I use sarongs, which are 100% cotton and dry in no time because they’re really thin. I make a lot of my own natural organic cleaning products for cleaning the salon and am a great advocate of Keep Britain Tidy initiative and Love My Beach – after all what we use inevitably goes down the plughole. When I go to beach cleans, I find it surprising how many products get washed up on the shore. Taking care of the environment is something that is important to me, personally and professionally.

46 International therapist

Promoting Sunshine When I opened five years ago, promoting Sunshine was a bit of trial and error. I started off by saying all of my products were vegan, but soon noticed clients stepping back when they heard this word. I quickly learned that saying 100% plant-based or ‘animal and cruelty free’ was more appealing. Now it makes me smile that vegan has become a trendy buzzword.

I think it’s wonderful that more and more people are getting behind the eco-friendly movement and I would encourage any therapist to promote natural products. I think it’s easier to do now because people are choosing to live cleaner and more sustainable lifestyles. I would be cautious about doing it for profit only, however – it has to be something you’re genuinely interested in. Research it, live it, and you will naturally want to tell the rest of the world about it.

Sunshine tends to attract clients who really love pampering, and I find that a lot of people come to Sunshine to see me, as a therapist. I want to empower women and give them the tools to be able to make smart choices when they’re shopping for products.

When clients come for a consultation before their appointment, I tend to tell them more about Sunshine and its ethos.

I also have leaflets within the salon about eco-initiatives so that more information is available to them if they would like it. I love to advise and help my clients to detox their beauty regimes and live cleaner lifestyles for themselves and for the environment.

In 2016, I trained with Jennifer Young so that I could treat clients living with and beyond cancer, which is something I am really passionate about. I love to offer a service outside of a hospice or hospital environment as I feel it’s important for my clients’ emotional wellbeing. One recent testimonial moved me to tears; the client said that when she was driving home it just occurred to her that it was the first time in a long time that she wasn’t treated as somebody with cancer, she was just treated as her. It was so powerful.

Going forward, I hope to constantly expand the holistic offering at Sunshine, building on 21 years of beauty therapy experience with plant energy, crystal energy and healing. T

What are your thoughts?

Do you have any comments or suggestions you’d like to share with other members on these topics? Please email Leanne at lsheill@fht.org.uk writing ‘mindful beauty’ in the subject box.

JOANNA TAPLIN is the owner of eco-beauty salon, Sunshine for the Soul. She is a holistic beauty therapist with 21 years' experience in the industry and has worked with major skincare brands. Joanna prides herself on treating clients holistically, offering 100% natural and organic treatments tailored to each client.

Spring 2020

Advice

T 1

Start off on the right foot Sadly, our industry can attract individuals looking for a treatment of a sexual rather than professional nature. Make sure that you reinforce your professionalism from the outset, to discourage inappropriate requests. When promoting your business, use professional-looking photos rather than personal ones, consider calling yourself a ‘professional massage therapist’ rather than a ‘masseuse’, and avoid using phrases like ‘sensual massage’ and email addresses or public user names that sound suggestive (for example, hothenry@emailprovider.com).

2

Reinforce that you’re a professional Despite your best efforts, you might still get the occasional call or message from someone looking for more than just a treatment. Simply ignore these where you can, or stress that you are a professional therapist who abides by a strict Code of Conduct and Professional Practice and that you don’t offer services of that nature. If someone is persistent, block their number or messages and if at any stage you feel your personal safety is at risk, contact the police.

3

Make sure someone knows where you are If a new client is visiting your home, particularly for the first time, you could make a comment when they arrive to

Spring 2020

6

ways... to protect your personal safety

In this new regular, we’ll be offering six top tips to support you, personally and professionally.

suggest that someone else is in the building, even if that’s not the case. Or if you are visiting a client, you could ‘buddy up’ with a friend, who you call before and after treatments, so that they know where you are and how long you will be. ‘Lone worker’ apps that use GPS tracking are now available and allow you to log visits and discreetly raise an alarm in an emergency.

4

Trust your instincts If you arrive for a treatment and immediately feel uneasy, make an excuse to cancel the session before it starts. If the treatment has already started and you feel unsafe, calmly give a reason to leave the room (perhaps you left something in the car) – you can always return for your things another time, with a companion.

5

Be aware of your surroundings When you enter someone else’s premises, try to keep your bearings as you move through the property and how you can make an exit, if necessary.

If you arrive to treat a client and there are others present who make you feel uneasy, make an excuse to leave.

6

Stay vigilant after the first treatment If you initially felt a little uneasy about seeing a client and your first visit went OK, don’t forget that initial gut instinct.

Continue to be vigilant at future appointments.

Remember, the majority of clients are nice, decent people, and anyone who you are little unsure of can usually be detected at the point of enquiry, but it’s always best to be prepared. T International therapist 47

Illustration: Shutterstock

hankfully, the vast majority of clients are genuine, decent people.

However, it is always important to consider your personal safety and particularly when meeting and treating a client for the first time.

Our 2020 FHT Member Survey highlighted that 87% of our members are self-employed, with more than a third (42%) working from home and nearly half (46%) providing treatments in their clients' homes. A substantial number of you also indicated that you work in other contexts where a colleague, relative or friend may not be in the same building, or potentially out of earshot if you needed assistance.

If any of the above applies to you, below are six simple measures you can take to help prevent and manage any potentially difficult situations, should they arise.

Research

Reflexology reduces back pain following coronary angiography

C

oronary angiography (CA) is a procedure used to diagnose coronary artery disease. It involves the insertion of a catheter into the femoral artery, via a puncture in the groin area, and injecting a dye to assess the extent and severity of the condition.

CA requires the patient to have complete bed rest for several hours after the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding and other complications.

Anecdotal evidence suggests that this immobility can lead to low back pain in many patients, however pain medication can carry with it undesirable side-effects, including vomiting, which would affect the patient’s ability to remain still.

The findings of a randomised controlled trial that evaluated the effects of foot reflexology on back pain following CA was recently published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical

Practice (Kardan et al, 2020).

Conducted in 2018–2019, 120 patients were recruited to the study and randomly allocated to either a control group, receiving routine postangiography care, or a reflexology group. Those in the reflexology group received an eight-minute treatment to each foot, which included a gentle two-minute warm up of the feet and ankles, including mobilisations, followed by a short routine that paid particular attention to the spinal column and solar plexus reflex points. Back pain intensity was measured using a visual analogue scale at the point of admission, immediately after the intervention, then at two hours, four hours and six hours after intervention.

The results showed that while back pain intensity significantly increased after CA in both groups, the pain intensity in the reflexology group at all post-intervention measurement time points was significantly less than in the control group.

The authors concluded that ‘foot reflexology is effective in significantly reducing back pain after coronary angiography’.

Adding hip exercises to quadricep exercises helps clients with knee osteoarthritis

K

nee osteoarthritis (KOA) can affect bone, cartilage, synovium and meniscii, and typical symptoms associated with the condition include pain, stiffness and reduced joint mobility.

With one in four people over the age of 55 experiencing symptoms of KOA, interventions that help to improve symptom management without the need for medical care are highly desirable, as these have the potential to minimise the escalating social and personal cost associated with the treatment of this

48 International therapist

common condition (Hislop et al, 2020).

A systematic review and metaanalysis recently published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (Hislop et al, 2020) looked at the effectiveness of adding hip strengthening exercises to quadricep exercises in people with KOA, and whether these would improve pain, function and quality of life. In addition, they looked at the type of hip strengthening exercise with the greatest evidence for improving pain, function and quality of life.

Eight studies, covering a total of 341 Spring 2020

Research

A

cne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that typically affects the face (99% of cases), chest (60% of cases) and back (15% of cases), with up to 95% of adolescents experiencing the skin condition to some extent (NICE, 2019).

It is characterised by non-inflammatory lesions known as comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and, in more severe cases, inflammatory lesions (papules, pustules, nodules and cysts).

The condition can lead to scarring and changes in pigmentation, which in turn can contribute to psychological problems including an increased risk of depression, suicide, anxiety and low self-esteem.

Helichyrsum odoratissimum (L.) Sweet is a perennial shrub that has been used traditionally in the treatment of wounds, burns, eczema and pimples. In a paper recently published in Frontiers in Pharmacology, researchers provide details of their investigation into whether a methonolic extract of H. odoratissimum had the ability to target bacterial growth and pathogenic factors associated with acne progression.

The results were positive, with the authors concluding that ‘this study provides scientific validation for the traditional use of H. odoratissimum as a possible treatment for acne, based on its antimicrobial effects and antiinflammatory potential.'

Access the full paper at: fht.org.uk/IT-132-research-acne

participants, met the inclusion criteria and based on the available data, the researchers found that: ■ Adding resistance hip exercises to quadriceps exercises has short-term benefits on patient-reported outcomes and physical function in people with KOA ■ Hip exercises that include a resistance component appear to have the greatest benefit over quadriceps exercises alone ■ There is no difference between highintensity and low-intensity resistance hip exercises across short-term outcomes ■ Functional neuromuscular hip exercises combined with quadriceps Spring 2020

Pranayama breathing improves asthma control Asthma is a chronic condition that affects respiration, with symptoms including breathlessness and wheezing. There are currently 5.4 million people in the UK receiving treatment for asthma: 1.1 million children (1 in 11) and 4.3 million adults (1 in 12) (Asthma UK, 2020).

A small study involving 55 people with asthma looked at the effects of pranayama (conscious breathing, as practised in yoga) on asthma control, pulmonary function and quality of life v (Erdogan Yüce G and Tascı S, 2020).

The findings indicated that pranayama applied for 20 minutes once daily for a month improved asthma control and quality of life in the study participants, but it did not improve their pulmonary function test results.

Music therapy reduces pain and anxiety during colonoscopy

C

olonoscopy is widely used to detect a number of bowel diseases, including colorectal cancer, and also to detect and remove polyps. Many patients find the procedure uncomfortable or painful, which can be exacerbated by feelings of embarrassment, fear and anxiety associated with this invasive procedure.

A recent study looked at whether music therapy could help to reduce pain, anxiety and patient discomfort during colonoscopy (Çelebi et al, 2020).

One hundred and twelve patients were randomly assigned to either a control group or intervention (music therapy) group. All patients received a low dose of Midazolam 2 mg (conscious sedation)

improved physical function (walking) but not patient-reported outcomes.

In terms of how hip resistance exercises in addition to quadricep exercises may benefit function in people with KOA, the authors commented, ‘Strengthening the hip muscles, particularly the hip abductors, might improve pelvic drop and trunk control during stance phase. This has the potential to reduce the knee adduction moment and has implications for medial knee compartment load.’

Access the full paper at: fht.org.uk/IT-132-research-KOA

before the procedure.

Those in the intervention group were also supplied headphones with appropriate music selected by the Turkish Music Research and Promotion Group, and were advised that they could adjust the volume and stop and start the music as they wished. Those in the control group received standard nursing care.

The findings of the study showed that music therapy during colonoscopy reduced pain and anxiety, increased comfort, and positively affected vital signs in the music therapy group. The authors concluded that, ‘since music therapy is an inexpensive, simple, non-invasive and non-pharmacological method without any side effects, it might be used as an adjunct to analgesics and sedatives for patients undergoing colonoscopy’.

References For full references, go to fht.org.uk/IT-references

Pictures: Shutterstock

Study validates traditional use of Helichrysum for acne

International therapist 49

Profile

A Day in the life of…

Ruth Tucker, link worker and community builder... knees. There are various options for this and my background as an exercise professional allows me to assess what would be most appropriate. We look at the NHS website to explore options and decide a group setting would be best as it would increase the patient’s confidence in the exercises and would involve social interaction. This was a simple signposting referral.

8:30am –

6:50am –

I work locally so am in the office early. Today I am based at one of the two surgeries where I am a link worker, the College Surgery Culm Valley Integrated Centre for Health in Cullompton, Devon.

Dr Michael Dixon, lead for social prescribing in England, employed me at the practice under the title of ‘health facilitator’ more than ten years ago. This is where the idea of social prescribing in a GP practice was born, at the time we were known somewhat as ‘trail blazers’ for this type of work.

7:10am –

The advantage to starting early is that it gives me time to catch up on emails, admin, and check my appointments diary.

Patients are usually referred by health professionals who feel a more holistic approach could benefit the patient.

Depending on the reason for referral, appointments last between 30 and 60 minutes. Referrals can range from simple signposting, to working out a way forward for someone with more complex needs.

11am – I have a meeting with the

8am – My first patient was referred

As a link worker, I need to keep my finger on the pulse as to what’s happening in the community. I regularly

for advice regarding exercise for arthritic

50 International therapist

Community LiFE Hub committee. This is an extension of my role and it is very important that I touch base regularly so that the group of volunteers feel supported.

12pm – It’s my lunch break and I go for a 20-minute walk as it’s very important to look after ourselves.

1pm –

conduct outreach work which can involve anything from picking up leaflets, going into community centres, visiting schools, and attending local council meetings.

Today I’m meeting with the headteacher of a local primary school to talk about launching activities to support young children and parents. It was very nostalgic for me as it was the school that my daughters and I attended - it’s really changed in appearance, a reminder that none of us are getting any younger!

2pm –

Time to do some admin.

Blocking out time for admin work is important, particularly if there have been some complex referrals during the day. My priority is to connect the dots with regards to my social isolation referral this morning.

First, I speak to the patient’s GP to ensure they are informed and are happy with the outcome of the meeting. I also use this time to check my emails again.

4pm –

Time to go home. It’s been a busy and varied day and I am leaving with a great sense of achievement.

5pm –

I arrive home after popping to the shops and start cooking the evening meal, spaghetti bolognese.

6:30pm –

I wind down with some brain training and relaxation after a nice hot bath. Perfect! T Spring 2020

Illustration: Shutterstock

6:10am –

My alarm goes off to the start of another day. My husband and I begin our familiar routine, I make coffee while he uses the bathroom, then it’s my turn. My routine takes longer than his and when my husband remarks as to why, I say it’s called ‘putting my face on’!

My next patient was referred because they felt socially isolated. They reported feeling very lonely and said that they needed help at home.

The priority was ensuring they had help managing daily tasks and a way to meet people in a way they felt comfortable with. Together we looked at local groups and transport options, first consulting with their GP, community matron and befriending services, to ensure health and safety aspects were considered.

We looked at the centre’s Community LiFE Hub and how it could help with their anxiety. The Community LiFE Hub is home to various groups run by volunteers and works in harmony with the Natural Health Practice with the Clum Valley Integrated Centre for Health. The Natural Health Practice provides a variety of complementary therapies, with the therapists providing free ‘taster sessions’ in the hub as well as individual sessions for reduced rates.

I spotted an up-and-coming relaxation class, so we discussed the option of this to help with my patient’s anxiety.

Members News

Members News

R

esearch shows massage therapy in the workplace can improve discomfort for those experiencing back pain, as well as reduce blood pressure and improve feelings of stress and fatigue.

I have seen these benefits first-hand since starting to provide complementary therapy treatments to NHS staff at the Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH).

I was first approached by the wellbeing team at the RDaSH in early 2019 to see if I was interested in providing complementary therapy sessions to their workforce. Following a short pilot receiving positive feedback, I started to offer therapy days at locations close to where staff work in Doncaster and across Rotherham.

These days take place once or twice a week. Sessions last at least 25 minutes and staff can choose from a range of complementary therapies, including massage (back, neck and shoulder, foot and leg, hand and arm, and face and head) or reflexology.

The pace is very different from my private practice, where I see a maximum of four people a day for between 60–90 minutes. The appointment timetable also changes frequently, reflecting the reality of a dynamic workplace, centred around the care of patients and important meetings.

For many staff it is their first experience of massage or reflexology, with some admitting that they rarely take time for themselves. Twenty-five minutes can be a short amount of time to provide the support that some staff Spring 2020

"I am often blown away by the number of comments I receive from staff about them feeling valued by their employer as a result of the programme." require, especially if they have more complex needs. In the back of my mind I remember that I have the option to refer staff to other support systems if need be.

RDaSH has an ageing workforce and around 80% of staff are women. It is for this reason that the health and wellbeing team are looking into how they can better support women who are experiencing the menopause, in a bid to reduce the impact of symptoms. RDaSH’s staff health and wellbeing package also includes free exercise sessions, referral

for musculoskeletal physiotherapy and free weight management courses, all with potential to support the symptoms of menopause.

The programme is evaluated by staff and collated by the health and wellbeing team. Feedback has been positive so far but I think it would be interesting to measure their experience using a system such as Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP) scale. Staff often only attend one session; however, many people have said they would like to attend a series of treatments. It would be interesting to look at the feedback if I were to offer a series of treatments and compare that to the response after just one session.

I am often blown away by the number of comments I receive from staff about them feeling valued by their employer as a result of the programme. I’m sure this feeling of being valued must benefit the overall wellbeing of the team, which is reflected in the quality of care they provide to their patients.

Providing treatments for NHS staff is also a fantastic way to increase recognition of complementary therapies.

For me this is the real meaning of the term complementary therapy, working alongside care providers to complement the work they do, in turn enhancing and improving that experience.

I’ve been made to feel so welcome by the teams I’ve treated, there has even been cake! I feel that my work really supports the important work that they do in providing the amazing NHS service we have. T International therapist 51

Picture: Shutterstock

Nikki Wall, MFHT, talks about providing complementary therapies to NHS staff

1

New products

ELEMIS PRO-COLLAGEN CELEBRATION DUO Introducing the pro-collagen celebration duo, a limited-edition combo containing the award-winning pro-collagen marine cream and the procollagen cleansing balm in the sell-out neroli aromatic.

Step one of this powerful duo, pro-collagen neroli cleansing balm dissolves make-up, daily grime and pollutants while uplifting senses with the delicate aromas of the Mediterranean, leaving skin feeling deeply cleansed and nourished, with a glowing complexion.

After cleansing, follow with the anti-ageing, pro-collagen marine cream, formulated with a powerful blend of padina pavonica and chlorella.

Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles in 14 days, improve hydration and leave skin feeling firmer and looking more radiant.

Both products have been launched to celebrate 30 years of innovation for Elemis.

RRP: £95, available from elemis.com

2

New products

COMING FULL CIRCLE

NAQI MASSAGE LOTION SPORT NAQI Massage Lotion Sport is an oil-rich formula designed to stimulate quicker recovery and restore the muscle’s normal activity, without causing the skin negative side effects of mechanical handling during a massage.

Designed with extended massages in mind, it’s oil-water emulsions and hydrating liquid crystal formula provides exceptional glide, while limiting the greasy feeling. This combination makes the product economic in use and easy to wash off without leaving behind any stains.

Price: £11.99 for 500ml, available from physique.co.uk Member offer: 10% off Physique items at checkout when purchasing from fht.org.uk/ physique

52 International therapist

4

A look at some of the latest products that might be of interest to our members...

3

MOTIVATION CARDS – JANE SHEENAN

Jane Sheehan has launched a range of motivation cards which are already proving to be popular with reflexologists, therapists and clients. The cards have photographs on one side and on the other, quotations from a mix of inspirational people such as Mother Teresa, Bruce Lee, Desmond Tutu, Eleanor Roosevelt, Steve Jobs, Aretha Franklin, Muhammad Ali and Audrey Hepburn.

Jane has always used inspiration cards at the end of her foot readings to gain additional insight into her clients’ thoughts and feelings. They were hugely successful, but when she could no longer source any more, Jane decided to make her own version as they are, in her words, ‘a valuable part of my foot reading tool kit’.

Price: £12.50, available from footreading.com

Suzanne Ruggles MSc, DipHE, MFHT, spoke at the 2019 FHT Conference in November about her charity, the Full Circle Fund, which provides evidence-based support in hospitals.

In this book, Suzanne shares a childhood vision which gave her the early clues for humanity’s interconnectedness with nature and the higher realms. Nature as a repeated motif for hope, threads throughout her book.

The story tracks back and forth through Suzanne’s life from the point that she was admitted to hospital with septicaemia and a deadly form of meningitis. As her condition worsened in a dramatic unfolding of events, Suzanne tells how she begged to be given the chance to live to finish her beloved patient project. She received an answer; the first of many heartrending signs of divine help and with it is the realisation that her life had come full circle.

Price: £9.95, available from suzanne-ruggles.com

Spring 2020

New products

5 6

DERMALOGICA – VITAMIN C EYE SERUM

This vitamin C eye serum delivers a bioavailable vitamin C complex to the skin around the eyes to brighten and firm.

Polyphenol-rich arjun tree extract and skin-nourishing chia seed oil rehydrate the skin, improving elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines. Nutrient-dense tremella mushroom and micro-algae blend locks in moisture, while poria mushroom helps boost skin’s natural luminosity.

This new product forms part of Dermalogica’s age smart system.

RRP: £63, available from dermalogica.co.uk

TRIGGER POINTS BY AMANDA OSWALD

A new self-care book by FHT Member, Amanda Oswald.

This book explains how the reader can take control of chronic or recurring pain to achieve positive results.

New science has revealed the effectiveness of trigger-point massage to target pain, from migraines and back pain, to repetitive strain injury.

By locating and manipulating the trigger points that are the source of pain, it is possible to dramatically relieve the pain and help to prevent its return.

Using the detailed illustrations in this book, readers can learn to identify and locate trigger points accurately and follow reliable expert advice on how to massage their own trigger points for maximum benefits.

Price: £9.99, available from amazon.co.uk

8

MOVEMENT INTEGRATION BY LUNDGREN AND JOHNANSSON Throughout history, there has been constant development and efforts made to better understand human form and function. The aim of this endeavour has been to find a more suitable way to understand and describe human movement.

This book is another contribution to this work and another step in its development.

The purpose of this book is to describe the vast human complexity by means of these two concepts that can be used to more easily approach and work with the human form and function in movement.

RRP: £24.99, shop on Amazon or visit lotuspublishing.co.uk

7

PURPLE FLAME COLOUR CHANGING AROMA DIFFUSER

The 101 aroma diffuser uses advanced ultrasonic technology which produces vibrations at a frequency of two million times per second, without using heat as heat alters and destroys the properties of essential oils.

This vibration releases tiny droplets of water vapour which are highly beneficial for the skin and general wellbeing. It has been known to provide relief for symptoms of respiratory problems.

The water vapour improves air quality and prevents damage from second-hand smoke, stale air and allergens.

Price: £29.15, available from purpleflame.co.uk

We love

We asked FHT Vice President and complementary therapist Mary Dalgleish to share her favourite product with our members.

‘I enjoy using Khadi Auyurvedic facial oils in combination with my Kansa Wand to keep my skin looking healthy. The combination of massage with the lovely ingredients in these oils helps to gently exfoliate and nourish the facial skin. Khadi do several varieties, my current favourite is Rose.’

Price: £15.52, available from amazon.co.uk Please note that product descriptions featured on these pages are provided by the supplier/manufacturer.

Spring 2020

International therapist 53

Competition

Competition

8

lucky members will win an FHT candle of your choice and room spray, worth £20

E

njoy the relaxing aromas of our 20cl natural plant wax candle, handmade in the UK for FHT. Candles are made with a soya and rapeseed vegetable oil blend from raw and sustainable sources, naturally coloured and subtly scented with essential oils.

■ Our Relax blend includes: geranium, lavender, sweet orange and ylang ylang.

■ Our Meditate blend includes: bergamot, clary sage, ho wood oil and ylang ylang.

■ Our Inspire blend includes: lavender, mandarin, neroli and rosemary.

No paraffin, animal or beeswax-based products are used and FHT’s candles

FHT’s 2020 AGM

are packaged in recycled glass and a cardboard gift box.

Room spray Our vegan therapy room spray has a natural vegetable base and is also handmade in the UK for FHT’s shop.

Our Relax blend comes in 100ml glass bottles and includes geranium, sweet orange, lavender, lavandin and ylang ylang essential oils.

The spray is alcohol and VOC free, nonflammable and packaged in a cardboard gift box.

To view these products online and see our full range of FHT products, made with our members in mind, visit shop.fht.org.uk

Illustration: Shutterstock

The closing date is Saturday 29 May 2020.

Visit fht.org.uk/competitions for full T&Cs

International Therapist, Issue 131

Ether to Spirit prize draw (p41) Brigitte Hackney, MFHT Jean Mulqueeny, Student Member Michelle Wood, MFHT

54 International therapist

Simply email your name, address, membership number and answer to Leanne at lsheill@fht.org.uk, typing in FHT competition’ in the subject box or complete our simple online form at fht.org.uk/IT-competition. Alternatively, send your answer and details on a postcard to: FHT competition, FHT, 18 Shakespeare Business Centre, Hathaway Close, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 4SR

Competition winners Feel Better in 5 prize draw (p29) Sarah Rodgers, Student Member Gillian Wilson, Student Member

The annual election of the FHT Governing Council is scheduled to take place at the annual general meeting on 15 July at 10am, at our offices in Eastleigh, Hampshire.

Information about the members standing for election will be available on our website from1 June (fht.org. uk/governing-council).

You will be invited to vote online, or you can obtain a postal ballot form by contacting Annie Walling at awalling@ fht.org.uk The closing date for nomination is 30 June.

To enter, please answer the following question: What two main ingredients are our candles made with?

A) Coconut oil and paraffin B) Beeswax and soya C) Soya and rapeseed vegetable oil

Base Formula competition (p53) Helen Kerridge, MFHT Jan Mullen, MFHT Alison Plant, AFHT Hattie Prior, Student Member Rosalind Rodger, MFHT Rebecca Wadsley, MFHT

Spiral £20 John Lewis gift card & Dead Sea soap (p55) Winner: Karen Burns, MFHT Runner-up: Joanne Newman, AFHT 2020 FHT Member Survey Winner: Victoria Framingham, MFHT Runners-up: Michael Cooke, MFHT Terhi Makela, MFHT Caroline Malone, MFHT Steven Marfleet, Student Member Helen Merrifield, MFHT

Base Formula competition Spring 2020

let’s

celebrate

YOU!

Entries to the 2020 FHT Excellence Awards open 24 April It’s never been more important to showcase your work and show the many ways professional therapists can make a real difference to the health and wellbeing of others. The winner of each category will receive a certificate, trophy, logo for marketing materials and PR support to help spread the word in their local area, and nationally. We are also excited to introduce a new category this year - FHT Green Therapy Business of the Year!

Visit fht.org.uk/awards

2020 FHT Excellence Awards ad - FINAL (signed off).indd 1

The categories for 2020 are: • FHT Complementary Therapist of the Year • FHT Sports Therapist of the Year • FHT Beauty Therapist of the Year • FHT Green Therapy Business of the Year • FHT Student of the Year • FHT Tutor of the Year • FHT Local Group Coordinator of the Year

to find out more and submit your entry

09/04/2020 13:52:39

Continuing Professional Development

CPD questions Below are questions relating to key articles in this issue of International Therapist. To gain three CPD points (unless otherwise stated), answer one or more questions relating to the same article, using a minimum of 300 words in total. If you don’t think the questions are helpful, don’t be afraid to pose your own, to any of the articles featured in the magazine.

Q

When helping a client living with a long-term condition, how could you work with them to identify any positive changes since their last treatment? For example, refer back to a MYMOP or other patient-reported outcome measure.

3 Professional representation.

7 The UK’s largest local group network.

Q

Reflexologist and foot reader, Jane Sheehan, provides tips on different ways to find a client.

Explain the steps you would take to find your ideal client.

Q

In a panel report conducted in 2018, experts agreed that high-quality carbohydrates are an important source of energy during periods of high-intensity exercise.

Research the most beneficial food groups for success in sport.

Efficient Posture (p30-33)

Q

Provide a case study of how you have supported a client affected by poor posture. (This activity would be worth 5 CPD points – for more guidance and a case study template, see fht.org.uk/cpd)

2020 Annual membership fees* *Ask our membership team about paying by Direct Debit – it could save you 5% on membership fees. **Includes case study insurance cover. £24.99 deducted from full membership fee on qualifying and upgrading.

Terms and conditions apply.

8 FHT branded products and member discounts on therapy supplies.

9 Free listing on FHT’s Accredited Register, independently approved by the Professional Standards Authority (if eligible).

10 FHT is a not-for-profit organisation run by therapists, for therapists.

Mindful Beauty (p44-46)

Q

Eco-beauty salon owner, Joanna Taplin, writes about the steps she takes to ensure her products are 100% organic. Research the Soil Association and explain the steps they take to approve a product as being completely natural. T For more information about how to gain CPD points by reflecting on your favourite articles, visit fht.org.uk/cpd

For membership and insurance information or an application pack, visit fht.org.uk or call T. 023 8062 4350.

FHT is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Ref: No. 502095

Illustrations: Shutterstock

Put your best business foot forward (p38-39)

Fuelled by Plants (p20-22)

56 International therapist

2 Campaigning, promoting and protecting your interests as a professional therapist.

6 Discounted continued professional learning.

The Office of National Statistics (OFS) released a report this year showing a significant fall in wellbeing in the UK since 2011. Referring to the Useful Resources cited in the article, research some of the different causes that can affect happiness.

FHT Member: £62.99 FHT Associate: £68.24 Student Member**: £24.99 FHT Affiliate: £36.74 Overseas Member: from £73.49 Qualified Combined Medical Malpractice, Public and Products insurance: from £46.81

1 Professional status and recognition.

5 Tailor-made comprehensive therapist, salon and clinic insurance policies.

Q

Inflammation is a positive bodily response but has been proven to cause more harm than good if it takes place for longer than necessary.

Research the causes of chronic inflammation in the body and explain how to prevent it occurring.

reasons for being an FHT member

4 The industry’s leading professional therapist magazine.

Health and Happiness (p14-17)

Q

10

Top

Spring 2020

Learning

Reading room

In the reading room section of the FHT website, you will find more than 450 therapy and business-related articles and research summaries, with more added regularly.

Visit fht.org.uk/readingroom log in and have a browse.

Letters to Matthew Louise Bates, MFHT, has been working as a complementary therapist since 1999. When her son Matthew died at the age of 27, she started journaling as a way to help process her loss and she is now sharing her heartfelt writing in her new book, Letters to Matthew. ‘It’s about grief and how we can move forward after the death of a loved one. In Letters to Matthew, I share my personal journey and how I combined all my knowledge as a complementary therapist to help myself’. In her article for the reading room, Louise explains a little more about her book and shares three of her letters to Matthew. fht.org.uk/IT-132-RR-letters

How burn out can turn out In 2012, Jane Loewy, MFHT, was leading a busy life. She was a PE teacher, school governor, training in different therapies, volunteering at a local rugby club, organising events and cycling to work. Fast forward to 2016 and everything is on hold as she comes to terms with a diagnosis of fibromyalgia and joint hypermobility syndrome. Jane’s GP put her in touch with the charity, Salus Fatigue Foundation (SFF), which proved a pivotal moment in her recovery. Learn about the highs and lows of her journey and SFF, where she supports others affected by debilitating fatigue. fht.org.uk/IT-132-RR-burnout

FHT Spiral No. 34 Test your A&P knowledge and win a £20 John Lewis & Partners gift card The winner will also receive a copy of The Art of Observing and Adjusting – an innovative guide to yoga asana for your postural type, by Vayu Jung Doohwa (lotuspublishing.co.uk).

Write your answers in a spiral from the start, working in an anticlockwise direction, towards the centre of the grid. The last letter of each answer is the first letter of the next. The shaded diagonal line will spell out a part of the brain.

TO ENTER Simply email the word that appears in the diagonal shaded boxes to kyoung@fht.org.uk (writing Spring spiral in the subject box) or send your answer on a postcard to the usual FHT address. Please include your name, address and membership number. Standard competition terms and conditions apply (visit fht.org.uk/competitions).

Entries to be received no later than 29 May 2020.

CROSSWORD CLUES 1. - - - - - - - arrest, muscle, cycle (7) 2. Coin oddly (anag.), a type of joint involving oval shaped bones (9) 3. These are most likely to occur during the rapid eye movement phase of sleep (6) 4. Largest organ of the body (4) 5. Pain caused by irritated or damaged nerve(s) (9) 6. ‘Male’ sex hormones, including testosterone (9)

7. Small tears in the dermis often caused by sudden growth or weight gain, eg pregnancy (7,5) 8. I rid focus (anag.), induces or causes sweat (9) 9. Expel air from the lungs suddenly with a sharp, short noise (5) 10. Irregular - - - - - - - - -, arrythmia (9) 11. Shinbone (5) 12. Rhinitis, hives, or trouble breathing

can indicate this type of reaction (8) 13. A common stimulant that increases alertness and can disturb sleep (8) 14. The orbicularis oculi helps to close this (6) 15. Having a physical or mental condition that limits movement, senses or activities (8)

Where’s the solution for spiral no. 33?

We do not publish the spiral solutions in International Therapist, as completing spirals from the magazine can count towards your CPD (one CPD point per spiral quiz, a maximum of five points per year). Turn to page 54 for the name of the member who sent in the first correct spiral solution to be independently drawn from all eligible entries sent in by the allocated closing date for spiral no. 33 featured in issue 131 (Winter 2020).

Spring 2020

International therapist 57

Courses

FHT accredited course provider NEWS

Caroline Purvey, founder of TRE UK, receives a global changemaker award At the 2019 Vision, Visibility and Voice conference in Manchester, FHT accredited course provider, Caroline Purvey, was honoured to receive the ‘Global Changemaker of the Year’ award in recognition of the innovative training she provides globally.

‘Following training in South Africa with David Berceli eight years ago, I vowed that I would evolve his work and make the Total Release Experience (TRE) available in the UK. I was a woman with a vision and

IRELAND

Deirdre Murray Holistic Training deirdremurray2@gmail.com Golden Egg Holistic goldeneggholistic.com Irish Institute of Nutrition & Health Ltd iinh.net Kerry School of Reflexology kerryreflexology.com Pyramid Holistic Centre pyramidholisticcentre.ie Saint Martin’s College of Orthopaedic Therapy stmartinscollege.ie Soul Balance Holistic Training soulbalance.com Tara School of Reflexology & Therapies maureenholistictherapies.com The European College of NEW Reflexology and Massage ecrm.ie

SCOTLAND

Hailey Dallas Brows Haileydallasbrows.com Holistic Ecosse makima@hotmail.co.uk Rosslyn Alternatives rosslynalternatives.co.uk Start with Touch Ltd startwithtouch.co.uk The Glasgow School of Massage theglasgowschoolofmassage.com Therapia School of Reflexology therapiagourock.com

NORTHERN IRELAND

Angel Haven angelhaven.co.uk Body and Sole School of Complementary Therapies bodyandsoleschool.co.uk

58 International therapist

Dorothy Kelly Academy of Reflexology dorothykellyacademyofreflexology.com Elaine Curry with Calm Confident Kids calmconfidentkids.co.uk Logan Fertility Centre loganfertility.com New Beginnings School of Natural Therapies angelsanctuary.co.uk Sheila Nugent School of Reflexology sheilanugentschoolofreflexology.co.uk

NORTH WEST

Acupuncture Training for Therapists Ltd acupuncturetrainingproviders.co.uk Alternatively Better alternativelybetter.co.uk Angela Pollard Therapies angelapollardtherapies.co.uk Ashwood Beauty & Holistic Academy ashwoodacademy.co.uk Breathworks breathworks-mindfulness.co.uk British Academy of Crystal Healing britishacademyofcrystalhealing.co.uk Dawn Alderson & Co Training Academy dawnalderson.co.uk Dorn Method Academy UK (Jacqui Hamer) dornmethod.org Dorn Method Lake District dornmethodlakedistrict.co.uk Female Fitness Academy the-ffa.com Gaia School of Natural Health gaiaschool.org.uk KORE Academy Ltd koretherapy.com NEW Natural Touch Training naturaltouchtraining.co.uk Reiki Tradition reikitradition.me.uk

FHT ACCREDITED COURSE PROVIDERS Q FHT accredited qualification(s) SC FHT accredited short course(s)

mission,’ says Caroline. ‘I returned home, opened my Yoga Studio, set up TRE UK® and began to share what I knew.’

‘In 2015 I created my training programme which is made up of a series of self-care workshops. My training programme is now FHT accredited, I was so proud to receive accreditation. Since setting up my courses, I have trained people face-to-face in Malawi, across the UK, and online, as far as New Zealand.’

‘Who knows what tomorrow brings? I continue to give gratitude, and nothing brings more joy than seeing the transformations in others where they had no hope.’

For more information visit treuk.com

The Master Academy/ Urban Body Balance urbanbalance.co.uk

NORTH EAST

Anna-Louise Haigh anna-louisehaigh.com Eve’s Garden (Alison Valerie Peart) eves-garden.co.uk Jong Baik Education jongbaik.co.uk Kinesio UK kinesiotaping.co.uk NHS Natural Health School nhsnaturalhealthschool.co.uk Pain Care Clinic paincareclinic.co.uk The No1 Pain Relief Clinic theno1painreliefclinic.co.uk Total Therapies Training totaltherapies.co.uk

EAST MIDLANDS

Cameron Reid Training cameronreidtraining.co.uk Chi Medics ™ chi-medics.com Extraordinary Kinesiology extraordinarychannels.com Fertility Massage fertilitymassage.co.uk Helen Mary Perkins helenperkins.com Infinity Training Academy infinitytrainingacademy.co.uk Lindsey Lodge Hospice lindseylodhehospice.org.uk Lumiere College lumierecollege.co.uk Penny Price Aromatherapy Ltd aromatherapy-courses.co.uk/ Progressive Kinesiology Academy UK progressive-kinesiology.co.uk

Spring 2020

Courses

Routes to Healing routestohealing.com Shirley Price International College of Aromatherapy shirleyprice.co.uk The Abbeyfields Clinic NEW theabbeyfieldsclinic.co.uk The Active School of Complementary Therapy ukmassagecourses.com Total Body Therapy gentlereleasetherapy.com Tri-Dosha tri-dosha.co.uk Vitali-Chi Headquarters v-chi.com

WEST MIDLANDS

Ascent Therapies Training Academy ascent-therapies.co.uk Bespoke Beauty and Holistic Training bespokebeauty0@gmail.com Central School of Massage centralschoolmassage.com Chakrascension™ Centre chakrascension.org.uk Core Postural Alignment coreposturalalignment.com Just BE (Butterfly Experience) with Jacqui Mexson Jacqui.mexson@virginmedia.com Lorraine Davis Holistic Healthcare and Education Centre lorrainedavistraining.com Lymphcare UK CIC lymphcare.co.uk Lymphoedema Training Academy Ltd lymph.org.uk Meridian School of Massage & Bodywork naturalhealth-centre.com Microsystems Therapies and Training annavenables.com Paadena School of Yoga & Thai Yoga Massage Therapy paadena.co.uk The UK Dorn Method Centre dornmethod.co.uk Time and Fitness for You timeandfitnessforyou.com/bt-workshop/ Timeless Partnership Ltd timelesspartnership.co.uk Tranquil Heart Training Academy tranquilheart.co.uk

WALES

Angela Green Complementary Therapies angelagreen99@yahoo.co.uk De Prez Training challengeconquered.com Gaia Education gaiaeducation.com Glyndwr University glyndwr.ac.uk Gower College Swansea gowercollegeswansea.ac.uk HB Training Wales Ltd hbtraining.org In The Pink! Therapies and Training inthepinktherapiesandtraining.co.uk Pembrokeshire College pembrokeshire.ac.uk Physiotherapy and Complementary Therapies Ltd nwcom.co.uk Sally Kay reflexologylymphdrainage.co.uk Seren Natural Fertility

Spring 2020

serennaturalfertility.co.uk TEACH Therapy teachtherapy.co.uk The School of Naturopathic Nutrition Lovenaturopathy.co.uk

SOUTH WEST

Abbigail Langstone-Wring Weymouth Dorset dorsetclinicalreflexology.co.uk Amethyst Trust amethysttrust.co.uk Barnes School of Sports Therapy barnesclinic-school.com Cheltenham School of Complementary Therapy & Beauty thetherapyschool.co.uk Coastal Therapies coastaltherapiesdevon.co.uk Core Elements coreelements.uk.com Cotswold Academy of Health and Beauty cotswoldacademy.co.uk Devon Academy of Complementary Therapies devonacademy.co.uk Devon School of Massage and Bodywork dpt.nhs.uk/locations/link-centre-ilfracombe II Intuitive Ltd 2intuitive.co.uk JemmaCo Limited jemmaco.com/training LMC Training massagefordementia.co.uk Lovegrove Essentials Ltd lovegroveessentials.com Spanu Massage spanumassage.com Sue Chinn Holistic Training Academy suechinn@btinternet.com Sunshine Hair & Beauty Training Academy sunshinetraining.co.uk The Children’s Reflexology Programme kidsreflex.co.uk The Good Hand Holistic Therapy Instruction thegoodhand.info The Seed Institute theseedinstitute.co.uk Touchline Training Ltd touchlinetraining.co.uk Tranquillity Zone Training tranquillityzonetraining.co.uk University of St Mark & St John marjon.ac.uk Weston Hospicecare westonhospicecare.org.uk With Intention Healing withintention.co.uk

SOUTH EAST

Academy of Advanced Beauty academyofadvancedbeauty.com Accredited Massage Courses Ltd accreditedmassagecourses.co.uk Aquamassage Ltd aquamassagetherapycushion.co.uk Ayurveda Institute of Europe ayurvedainstitute.org Ayurveda Pura Academy ayurvedapura.com Brighton Holistics brightonholistics.co.uk Brighton School of Massage brightonschoolofmassage.co.uk Calming Influences Ltd calminginfluences.com

Centre for Nutrition Education and Lifestyle Management cnelm.co.uk Cherubs Training Academy Hampshire cherubsbabyhealth.com College of Classical Massage Ltd collegeofclassicalmassage.com CPD Health Courses cpdhealthcourses.com Elemi Training elemitraining.co.uk Freedom Therapies Training freedomtherapies.co.uk Functional Reflex Therapy functionalreflextherapy.co.uk Gladwell School of Massage gladwellschoolofmassage.com Gong Bodywork doewarnes.co.uk Hawaiian Massage UK Training Centre huna-massage.com Holistic Beauty Academy holisticbeautyacademy.co.uk HypnoTC: The Hypnotherapy Training Company hypnotc.com Innamincka Training Services itsperou@depinaperou.plus.com Jane Sheehan footreading.com Jivita Ayurveda Ltd jivitaayurveda.com Kneads Must / Kneader Massage (KOM) kneadsmust.com London College of Massage/ Massageworks londoncollegeofmassage.co.uk London Institute of Thai Yoga Massage learntomassage.co.uk London School of Complementary Health Ltd lsch.co.uk Lucis College lucisgroup.com Mark Stevens, Hands on Holistics hands-on-holistics.com Mary Atkinson Holistic Therapy Courses maryatkinson.org.uk Murrells Hall NEW vibrozone.com Neal’s Yard Remedies School of Natural Medicine nealsyardremedies.com Nicki Lee Massage Therapy & Training nickileemassage.com On the Spot Training Centre sallymorris.co.uk Peter Symonds Adult and Higher Education College psc.ac.uk Purple Turtle Academy ptmassagetherapycourses.com Reflexmaster reflexmaster.co.uk RJ Buckle Associates rjbuckle.com School of Natural Therapies schoolofnaturaltherapies.co.uk Shakra Centre shakracentre.com Shared Beauty Secrets sharedbeautysecrets.com Shen Mantra shenmantra.com SKN-RG Academy skn-rg.com St Mary’s University smuc.ac.uk/shortcourses

International therapist 59

Courses Story Massage storymassage.co.uk The Advanced Attraction NEW Company carolynebennett101@gmail.com The Five Key Programme keyworkshops.co.uk The Holistic Academy holistic-academy.co.uk The Lancaster System lancastersystem.co.uk The School of Abdominal Sacral Massage abdominal-sacralmassage.com NEW Time for a Change timeforachange.uk.com Total Release Experience (TRE UK®) treuk.com TouchPro touchpro.co.uk Training4Healthcare training4healthcare.co.uk UnitedMind Ltd unitedmind.co.uk Ziggie Bergman with the London School of Reflexology zonefacelift.com Ziggie Bergman zonefacelift.com

NATIONAL

Anatomy and Physiology Online anatomy-and-physiology-online-courses. co.uk Dynamic Massage dynamicmassage.co.uk/ handsfreemassage.com Essential Training Solutions Ltd essential-training.co.uk Gateway Workshops gatewayworkshops.com

Health Kinesiology UK hk-uk.co.uk Jennifer Young and Beauty Despite Cancer beautydespitecancer.co.uk London School of Massage londonschoolofmassage.co.uk Stonebridge Associated Colleges stonebridge.uk.com The Balance Procedure Limited thebalanceprocedure.com The College of Bowen Studies thebowentechnique.com The Chrysalis Effect thechrysaliseffect.com Wavestone Therapies Ltd thewavestone.co.uk Womb & Fertility Massage fertilitymassage.co.uk

INTERNATIONAL

Akademi Ayu Jelita SDN BHD joanphang@yahoo.com NEW American Fitness Professionals & Associates afpafitness.com Beijing ReStart Biotech Ltd 5restart.com Blossom & Berry Baby Massage & Yoga Training blossomandberry.com Butterfly Touch Therapies Limited butterflytouchtherapiestraining.com Cosmo Kemp School of Thai Yoga Massage cosmothaiyoga.com Health Coach Institute, LLC healthcoachinstitute.com Institute of Transformational Nutrition (ITN) transformationalnutrition.com

Jari Jari Spa jarijari.com.my Liddle Kidz Foundation liddlekidz.org MSTR NEW mcloughlin-scar-release.com New Vision Therapy newvisiontherapy.co.uk PureAroma Healing Academy purearoma.com.tw Rapid NeuroFascial Reset rapidadhesionrelease.com Rinalda Therapeutic Kneads rinaldatherapeutickneads.com Shenzhen Hui Yun Aroma Health Consulting Co. Ltd huimeichiang@gmail.com Shiny Forest Ltd shinyforest.com Singapore SPA Institute spainstitute.com.sg The Arvigo® Institute LLC arvigotherapy.com The Glam Factory Salon & Academy the-glam-factory-salon-academy.business. site The Institute of Aromatherapy aromashoppe.com Wellness Cosmetology Sdn Bhd. beaubelle.com

More info Please visit fht.org.uk/accreditation for more information about FHT accredited qualifications and short courses.

See your advertisement here International Therapist has a circulation of 16,000 per issue and offers a broad range of articles from aromatherapy and electrolysis, to sports injuries and regulation updates. The magazine is a membership benefit and is not available off-the-shelf or by subscription.

It is predominantly read by professional therapists and students who are members of the FHT, and is distributed to colleges and universities, private therapy training providers, NHS authorities and other parties interested in therapy training and practice.

Get in touch To see your advertisement in the leading magazine for therapists contact us today: Stewart Dymock stewart@centuryonepublishing.uk 01727 739 194

60 International therapist

Spring 2020

In your next issue of I N T E R N AT I O N A L

The leading magazine for professional therapists

fht.org.uk

Summer 2020

Issue 133

Man-kind – a look at what male clients are coming to see members for and how you can help to support their mental health and wellbeing Shinrin-Yoku – an introduction to the mindful practice of forest bathing and its many health benefits

Plantar fasciitis – an overview of this common condition and tips on how to assess clients and support their rehabilitation Onwards and upwards – FHT experts share how they intend to boost their therapy businesses after COVID-19 Spring 2020

International therapist 61

Illustration: Shutterstock

The skin collaborative – two FHT members join forces so their clients can benefit from skin camouflage and ScarWork

News

Industry news

The latest news from leaders within the health and wellbeing industry…

Sterex develop first Level 5 qualification in advanced blemish removal Electrolysis experts, Sterex, are delighted to announce the successful completion of the first ever Level 5 qualification in advanced blemish removal.

The successful delegate was Sterex trainer, Janet Turner, an experienced practitioner in electrolysis, who co-wrote the course with Sterex’s Education Manager, Christine Hughes.

Janet said, ‘Developing the newly launched Level 5 Advanced Blemish Removal Course for Non-medical Aesthetics has been a mammoth task.

It has taken almost two years to bring together all the learning resources and in-depth research needed to meet the exacting standards required by VTCT (ITEC).’

To deliver this Sterex/VTCT course, trainers need to have completed the level 5 qualification and have current clinical experience in the subject.

■ Sterex.com

Comfort Zone creates spa treatment menu for InterContinental London Sponsor of the 2019 FHT Conference and luxury skincare brand, Comfort Zone, has created a new treatment menu for The Spa at InterContinental London - The O2.

The menu will include facials, massages and sensory treatments, along with an exclusive Meridian Time Ritual, which incorporates ancient traditions

from Oriental, Mediterranean, Indian and Arabian cultures, designed to nourish and illuminate the skin.

All treatments will use Comfort Zone products, which are created with natural ingredients and are free from animal derivatives.

■ comfortzone.com

Pukka’s new Peace Tea aims to reduce stress Herbalist Sebastian Pole has combined a range of nurturing plants to create Peace, the latest addition to the Pukka tea range.

The comforting blend brings together hemp leaf, to support a healthy physical reaction to pressure and tension, and ashwagandha, to help improve energy and calm the nervous system.

Other ingredients include chamomile, which reduces irritability and aids digestion; lavender, to lift the spirits, ease emotional pain and promote relaxation; and spearmint, to help calm and relax the digestive system, and open the mind.

Pukka Peace is naturally caffeine-free, ethically sourced and made from 100% organic ingredients.

■ Pukkaherbs.com

Be present, here and now, with Florais de Saint Germain Geranio (Pelargonium hortorum) is known as the woman’s flower essence, helping and supporting women through different body challenges. Geranio can also help us to become psychologically mature and more focused in the present moment, bringing serenity and clarity where negative thoughts and unfound fears arise.

For more information, contact Land of Reiki and Aroma, Florais de Saint Germain’s face in the UK. ■ saintgermain@landofreiki.co.uk 62 International therapist

Spring 2020

News

Professional Certified & Insurable Massage, Beauty & Spiritual Courses Come & Join The Thousands Of Therapists & Complete Beginners We Train Every Year n

n

Professional Standards Authority appoints new chair In April, the Professional Standards Authority appointed Dame Glenys Stacey DBE as the organisation’s new chair.

Dame Glenys originally worked as a solicitor but has a wealth of experience in leadership and management roles in both the regulatory and standards fields including as Chief Regulator and Chief Executive of Ofqual, Chief Executive of Animal Health, and most recently, as Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Probation.

Dame Glenys said, ‘I am delighted to be joining the Professional Standards Authority, which plays a vital role in protecting the public by raising standards in the registration and regulation of people working in health and social care. The challenges in the health sector have never been greater and I hope to be able to bring my previous experience in leadership and regulation to benefit patients and the public.’

The Authority oversees the Accredited Registers programme, a government-backed initiative that ensures the public, care commissioners and employers can choose a non-statutory regulated health practitioner with confidence. The FHT runs the largest Accredited Register of complementary therapists to have been independently accredited by the Authority.

■ professionalstandards.org.uk

n

n

n

UK & National Accredited Training School / Expert Tutors FREE Anatomy/Physiology & Therapist Accounts Manuals When You Book!

Professional Qualifications - One Day Recognised Diploma Courses Plus ITEC courses Small Classes Offering Individual Attention / Various Venues We Also Offer In-House Salon Training - We Train Therapists At John Lewis Spa, Many Top Hotels, Dior and Bobbi Brown

Accredited by ABT, FHT, CThA, Holistic/Beauty Guild, IPHM, ITEC, & Towergate Insurance

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Award Winning Training School Visit Web Site for Regular Dates

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Sport England announces £195m package to support sport and physical activity through coronavirus

Photograph, Shutterstock/Littlekidmoment

In March, Sport England announced it would be making £195 million of funding available to help the sport and physical activity sector through the COVID-19 crisis.

The package, which is a combination of National Lottery and government funding, will include emergency funds for clubs and community organisations, as well as financial support to fund new and innovative ways to keep people active and, when the period of restrictions is over, to help organisations get back to business.

■ sportengland.org

Spring 2020

International therapist 63

School of Natural Health, Covent Garden We are the first NHS trust-approved training school offering peer reviewed accredited training and unique supervised practice placements, within Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust.

Join us on one of our CPD courses and discover practical tips for enhancing your practice and giving your clients a unique experience.

Holistic Facial / 2 days / £290*

We provide a wide range of professional and interest courses from professional qualifications in Aromatherapy, Massage, Reflexology, Emmett Practitioner and Daoyin Tao, to introductory and specialised CPD including Certificate in Cancer and Palliative Care, HDFT Certificate in Complementary Therapies, Pain Management, Advanced Pathology and Recognising Red Flags.

Using natural and organic skincare, learn how to give a luxury facial treatment tailored to skin type, age and individual needs.

Rejuvenating Facial / 1 day / £160*

Using specific massage techniques, learn how to release muscular tension, improve circulation and enhance radiance.

We can also deliver bespoke training packages within your organisation.

CONTACT US TODAY 020 3119 5904 courses@nealsyardremedies.com www.nealsyardremedies.com/courses

For our full range of courses, dates and prices please get in touch: email hdft.Natural.Healthschool@nhs.net or call 01423 557316

See our website for full course details and upcoming dates

www.nhsnaturalhealthschool.co.uk The International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists

*All course fees correct at time of going to print and subject to change without notice.

Natural Health School QPV.indd 1

FHT Accredited Courses by

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Sports • Remedial • Holistic Courses & Workshops tel: 07796 297071

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24 Thomas Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL72BD

Spring 2020

The evaluation of healthcare is increasingly based on Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMS)

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY TRAINING “This will change the way you work at a fundamental level” You may be a massage therapist, or other type of bodyworker, with various tools already in your therapy kit. Here are some you will be really glad you added. Participants repeatedly tell us how incorporating CST changes the way they work, at the most fundamental level, giving them new insights into how the body functions and how they treat.

The Warwick Holistic Health Questionnaire is a valuable tool to assess complementary, alternative & integrative approaches to healthcare. Capturing outcomes of importance to clients and practitioners, the WHHQ uses positive statements to measure mental, physical, social and spiritual wellbeing.

Easy to use for both you and your clients, the questionnaire can help you to discuss and monitor progress together.

The WHHQ is underpinned by academic research and was developed in conjunction with C.A.M. practitioners and clients.

For further information visit www.warwick.ac.uk/whhq

There are five core classes starting with CST1: running in Brighton, London, Manchester and Perth.

Get in touch & find out more.

TRY OUR FREE 5-PART ONLINE INTRO www.upledger.co.uk 0800 690 6966

Looking for a professional therapist to join your team?

Advertise your job opportunity with us istin our o opportunit it t e is a reat a to reac ualified insured t erapists o are passionate a out t e or t e do doin so ou ll enefit from A listing on the F H T w ebsite

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A direct link to your j ob listing on the F H T ’ s monthly new sletter sent to more t an mem ers o a e opted in to recei e it A n announcement linking to your listing on our F acebook, T w itter and L inkedI n pages ic to et er a e more t an follo ers

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FHT job opps half page.indd 1 Spring 2020

10/09/2019 16:13 International therapist 65

Guest column

50% of the time. That has fractured the relationship between the patient and his/her registered doctor. That is a frustration because having a personal doctor is important for patients who are old, seriously ill or have a long-term disease. Research also suggests that the clinical care is better and cheaper when doctors and patients can have these close ongoing relationships, which are impossible given current pressures in general practice.

and finally...

Dr Michael Dixon, chair of the College of Medicine and social prescribing lead for England, discusses his top five frustrations as a GP.

L

ife as a GP is full of joy but also frustration. Some of these frustrations should be regarded as challenges to be overcome by strength of will – such as remembering the five different passcodes to get into my practice computer, patient notes and emails, and to access my Dictaphone and patients’ results (all of which I have to change every month!).

So, what are my most fundamental frustrations as a GP? Firstly, the ten-minute consultation is no longer fit for purpose. It is a constant source of frustration because either you can’t attend to all a patient’s needs and do what’s best for them in this time or you end up running very late and annoying others. The average doctor in Europe has 25 patient contacts a day, while in the UK we are almost double this. Patients come and see us almost twice as often as when I started as a GP, though the number of patients on my list is the same. The government promised 5,000 extra GPs but the absolute number of GPs has actually gone down ever since this promise was made.

66 International therapist

Central priorities can be equally frustrating. As the patient enters my consulting room, I see flashing lights all over the computer screen highlighting things that I need to check – blood pressure, smoking status, cervical smears and even sexual orientation. All

“

The average doctor in Europe has 25 patient contacts a day, while in the UK we are almost double this. of these distract from what the patient or I see as their main issues. I would like to do my best for each patient as they see it but I am judged and paid according to these often less important central priorities.

I used to see my own patients 80-90% of the time but because we now have to offer fast access and run a rota system, I now see my own patients only around

The fourth frustration, particularly to an older doctor, is the extent to which we have to work within the tramlines of care pathways, local prescribing formularies and complying with accepted populationbased evidence. It leaves little room for treatments that recognise the individuality of each patient and stops safe experimentation – for example, in complementary therapies – that the patient might want to try. Sometimes modern medicine seems bland and colourless, and places the patient at the bottom of the hierarchy of evidence and clinical opinion, when the patient should be at the very centre.

My final frustration is the mass media saying that general practice should be better and more accessible and the government promising better access but nobody doing anything to ensure that we have the means to offer this.

Where the money has filtered into general practice, it is all too often difficult to find the nurses, pharmacists or physiotherapists that the money might pay for. GPs want to do a good job and don’t like being the apologists for a system that has insufficient money or hands on deck. T

Dr Michael Dixon, LVO, OBE, is a GP, chair of the College of Medicine (collegeofmedicine. org.uk) and national clinical champion for social prescribing. He was chair of the NHS Alliance for 17 years and is a past president of NHS Clinical Commissioners.

Spring 2020

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