Ask The Experts

Q: What are the benefits of receiving hypnotherapy for weight loss - and does it work?

A: For weight loss calls, I'll ask how much they weigh and will explore the triggers for overeating. I will assess the client's early years and their relationship towards food. When a client is in a trance state, I will communicate with their subconscious. Imagery, education, and positive affirmations are used, to highlight the benefits of being fit, and healthy. The work comes from the client. What hypnotherapy does, is to change negative behaviour linked around food and exercise. Over time the results can be very positive, and can boost confidence. Yes, it can work if the commitment is there. The number of sessions will depend on the client's weight and circumstances. Usually, it may take six sessions to complete a treatment plan. Valerie Davis, VM Hypnotherapy (vmdavishypnotherapy.webnode.com)

Q: Is Rotary a male-only organisation and do you have to own a business to join?

A: There are a few myths surrounding Rotary, but let me dispel these. We’re an open organisation of both men and women who believe in helping others. Although it started out as a men-only organisation, the constitution changed in 1989 to allow women to join. You also don’t need to be a business owner (or old) to join. Members of all ages include people like teachers, nurses, builders, estate agents, prison officers and many more. For more information email rotarynorthbynorthwest@gmail.com Christine Atkinson, Rotary in Bromley Borough

Q: Why does my skin type change from oily to dry?

A: A number of factors can be responsible for the change in your skin type. If your skin is suddenly dry, you could be dehydrated. Alternatively, weather conditions (especially now it’s winter!), hormonal changes, lifestyle factors and your dietary choices can also have a huge role to play. Maria, Trendy Beauty (trendybeauty.co.uk)

Q: I’m a mum looking for a part-time flexible role, do these jobs exist?

A: Yes, there are lots of part-time flexible roles, promise! If we can take one positive from the pandemic, it is that more employers have discovered that flexible working is possible and there has been a shift from the 9 to 5 to a hybrid way of working. There are a number of part-time and flexible agencies and family friendly employers that embrace women returners and will have flexible working high on the agenda. Ensure your CV is up to date and includes the transferable skills you have as a parent – no gaps allowed! Think about your values and target organizations that represent those values and finally find a coach, a mentor or an organization to help you on your journey back to work. Jane Knight, Successful Mums (successfulmums.co.uk)

Q: I have family ashes which I don’t know what to do with. Can Brightwater help me?

A: Yes, of course. It’s really important that Brightwater is available to everyone, including those who prefer cremation. We have beautiful Niches overlooking our gardens, where families are already laying their loved ones to rest. One lady had her husband’s cremated remains at home for 18 years before she found us and felt we were perfect for him. The real beauty is that the visiting experience is the same, whether for those put to final rest above ground in our mausoleum, or those in the cremated remains Niches. Come and have a look around! Jackie Heasman, Brightwater Memorial Park (brightwater.group) May 2022 Life in... Orpington 15