Reconnect Feb- Mar 2016 Issue 41

The good living and community magazine for Exeter, Plymouth and across South Devon FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 ISSUE 42

produce k energy k land k homes k community k wellbeing k arts

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OUR BIG FESTIVALS GUIDE It’s time to plan your Summer fun!

DIP INTO NATURAL PAINTS Colour without chemicals

A LIFE OF MOMENTS

PUTTIn' ON MY TOP ACTS

Mindfulness for young people

Coming to a village near you...

GoingOut

Now even bigger - same unique selection for Reconnect readers

local people local events local food local health local environment

Here at ENHC we offer a wide range of complementary therapies provided by experienced and highly professional practitioners. The centre, which has been established since 2001, is also renowned for its excellence in training courses. Conveniently situated in the city centre, we have full reception cover and beautiful spacious treatment rooms for therapists to hire or, for bigger workshops, courses and classes, we have a well appointed large training room. Please call on 01392 422555 for more details.

School of Bodywork Professional Massage Training

LYDIA AUGUSTINE Specialising in a range of problem skin conditions: Acne, Pigmentation, Vascular, Hair Removal, Beauty Treatments and Massage Mobile: 07594014396 Email: dermatherapyaesthetics@ outlook.com www.dermatherapyaesthetics.co.uk

Devon School of Reiki Providing High Quality Usui / Holy Fire Reiki Training & Treatments

MASSAGE THERAPIST Clinical / Relaxation / Sports Massage Kat Collier Bsc (Hon) QTS, ACMT, FHT Mob: 07943 142470 Tel: 01363 83775 Em: kat@massagehw.co.uk www.massagehw.co.uk

THE DEVON SCHOOL OF REFLEXOLOGY

Retreats, Courses for Children, Workshops & 1-2-1tuition also available

01392 422555

Spring/Autumn courses 2016

Centre Manager: Ali Morrish

For more details: www.devonreflexology.com Email: devonreflexology@hotmail.com

MORE EXETER NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE PRACTITIONERS MO MORRISH RSHOM Homeopathic medicine www.the homoeopathicpractice.co.uk Authentic Ceremonies www.authenticceremonies.co.uk ANNA PARIS Ac.M.MBAC Traditional acupuncture, Toyohari 5 element & Manaka styles E: amparis1@btinternet.com SUSAN QUAYLE Maternity reflexologist, fertility, ante natal, labour, post natal & baby, aromatherapy, massage Tel: 01626 862469

LESLEY HARPER Nutritional Therapy www.lesleyharper.co.uk TANYA DESFONTAINES Craniosacral Therapy T: 07971 913002 E: Tanya@fifthworldcranial.co.uk GUNDA FIELDEN MSTAT Alexander Technique T: 01803 782743 E: gundafielden@tiscali.co.uk

SARAH HENDERSON Remedial and Therapeutic Massage Therapist APNT Dip, BCMA reg, www.renewmassages.co.uk

ELEMENTS MASSAGE THERAPY Cathy Payne Hot Stone Massage, Swedish Massage, Indian Head Massage, Reiki, Pregnancy Massage www.facebook.com/ elementsdevon T: 07595 479463

LISA TATE Remedial, pregnancy & therapeutic massage, Myofascial release T: 07561 519344 E: lisa@lisatatetherapies.co.uk

JULIE BLADON Lomi Lomi Massage / Yoga / Meditation T: 07754 983498 W: juliebladon.com

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www.schoolofbodywork.com info@schoolofbodywork.com 07711 656 011

Award-winning Training in Professionalism and Excellence

Contact: Samantha Goddard, Principal 07870 167701 • info@devonschoolofreiki.co.uk www.devonschoolofreiki.co.uk www.reikirascals.com

• Introduction to Massage • Myofascial Release Diploma • Special Needs Massage • Hands-Free Techniques • Deep Tissue Massage • Indian Head Massage • Swedish Massage Diploma • Advanced Techniques • Remedial Diploma • Thai Massage

RACHEL CAREY Bi-aura Bio-energy Healing, Tui Na Chinese Medical Massage, Therapeutic Oil Massage, Reflexology www.rachelcarey.co.uk T: 01392 758439 KATHERINE JENKINS Hypno-counselling T: 01392 811836/07890 364847

Find out more about us on facebook Follow us on twitter @ExeterNaturalHC Exeter Natural Health Centre, Queens Walk, 83/84 Queen Street, Exeter, EX4 3RP

e: info@enhc.org w: www.enhc.org

DR SARAH BRYAN PH.D Holistic therapeutic, sports, remedial & deep tissue massage, Myofacial Release, Clinical Aromatherapy T: 07949 654779 W: www.sbholistic.co.uk NOVA JONES MASSAGE Traditional Swedish Massage Therapy T: 07939004890, Nova Jones Massage on Facebook MICHELLE HOLLOX APNT DIP, BCMA REG Myofascial Release and Swedish Massage T: 07947 757239 E: mholloxmfr@gmial.com

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Upfront IT'S WHAT WE'RE ABOUT

Broughttoyou by...

IN THISISSUE...

Page 39

VILLAGES IN ACTION 5 Right up your street

EDITOR Martin Foster

THRIVING OUTDOORS 6 Re-wilding for Spring!

CLEAR THE SCREEN

8

Outside chance for teens WELLBEING EDITOR Kate Philbin

NEW GOING OUT 9

Now with added events

GARDENING TIPS SALES SUPPORT Melissa Merrington-Pink

12

New jobs for new season

STEINER THE TIMES 12

A new free school? Never!

ADMIN MANAGER Beth Foster

LOCAL PRODUCE 14

Veg box and online shop

SUGAR MONSTER

17

Tasting sweet success

ECO HOMES

19

Dip into natural paints

GIVING GARDEN 21

WELCOME... ... to the February/March issue of Reconnect. As I write this, we’re all still pondering on what a weird, frost-free and wet (oh, so wet) Winter it is, and wondering if we should stop producing a magazine and start building an ark...

But I know that when you read this, Spring will be bursting through (although it might be wearing wellies) and we’ll all be feeling twitchy and just dying to get out there and do stuff.

So this issue is simply heaving with all you need to know about outdoor things to do and see now and over the coming months - exploring nature and creativity for your own wellbeing; enough events to keep you up all night (and all day too), including our new-look GoingOut section and a unique guide to festivals in the SW; camps, especially for kids and families; and land project workshops and volunteering to keep you down to earth.

All that plus the usual regulars - and news of our exciting new online developments. Enjoy!

Martin

COVERSTORY...

The good living and community magazine for Exeter, Plymouth and across South Devon FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 ISSUE 42

Community gets involved

FESTIVAAAAAAL! 22

produce ❋ energy ❋ land ❋ homes ❋ community ❋ wellbeing ❋ arts

Please take one

FREE !

Guide to Summer fun

WELLBEING 24

Stay healthy - naturally

CLASSIFIEDS

FEATURES WRITER Jon Stein

TWITTER EDITOR Matthew Rochford

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Jenny Foster

STAY IN TOUCH...

EDITORIAL: 01803 868455 NEW ADVERTISING: 01803 868455 CURRENT ADVERTISERS: 01392 346342 EMAIL US: editor@reconnectonline.co.uk or adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk SEND US STUFF BY POST: 45 Punchards Down, Follaton, Totnes TQ9 5FD FOLLOW US AND READ US ONLINE: www.reconnectonline.co.uk facebook.com/reconnectmagazine twitter.com/reconnectmag www.reconnectonline.co.uk

OUR BIG FESTIVALS GUIDE It’s time to plan your Summer fun!

DIP INTO NATURALPAINTS

Check out the small ads Page 5

FOOD WRITER Jane Hutton

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AND FINALLY... 42

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Colour without chemicals

A LIFE OF MOMENTS

PUTTIn' ON MY TOP ACTS

Mindfulness for young people

GoingOut

Coming to a village near you...

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Main image: festival fun and games by Stone (www.stonefree. org) - see page 22. Along the bottom, left to right: mindfulness at Sharpham - see page 29 ; natural paints pic courtesy of Earthborn - see page 19; Namvula, just one of the artists appearing at Village in Action gigs - see page 5.

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news&views

Two students in a print workshop run by Sara Evans at Seale Hayne.

Women’s Pilgrimage on the Dorset Jurassic Coast Mon April 18th - Thurs April 21st Led by Humanist Counsellor Fran Fleming and Interfaith Minister and Celebrant Natasha Hood.

Starting from Golden Cap cliffs, along Dorset Coast Path, including Chesil beach, the Othona Community and St Catherine’s Chapel.

Multi-faith and no-faith all welcome.

Call Fran on 01297 445078 or email franrois@hotmail.com

Creative HANDS pass on skills

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GROUP of artists have come together to create, exhibit their work and pass on their skills through workshops.

Hannah’s Artists And Designers (HANDS) is a group resident at Hannah’s at Seale-Hayne, near Newton Abbot, Devon, working in painting, illustration, photography and printmaking; jewellery, ceramics and glass, blacksmithing, picture framing, bears, bags, and textiles!

Sara Evans offers regular pottery classes on Tuesday evenings and all day on Fridays for beginners as well as those experienced with clay.

With Noni McKenzie you can learn and practise the ancient craft of handloom weaving or knitting in her studio on Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Saturdays.

For those interested in all things glass, Jackie Bufton offers workshops in stained glass, fused glass and etched glass, over half or full days, for individuals or groups.

Sara Gilbert, painter and printmaker, runs print-making workshops – linocuts drypoint, collagraph and monoprints – for individuals and small groups. Chris and Jenny Higham offer painting tuition and both accept commissions. And Paul Stratton, illustrator and model-maker, gives lessons and also accepts commissions, especially for pet portraits.

Aspiring silversmiths and jewellers can learn professional techniques from Pete Reeves on a one-to-one basis. He’s also teaching how to re-fashion old jewellery into a more contemporary wearable piece.

HANDS also have their own picture framer (and photographer) in Graham Gilbert, who also offers a scanning and photographing service for artists. A giclée printing service up to A2 size is also available.

Visit www.discoverhannahs.org/sealehayne/arts/artists/workshops, email hands@discoverhannahs.org or call 07718 161079.

There’s so much to be grateful for...

SINGING coach and choir leader Pete Scott, right, says there’s much to be grateful for...

L

OOKING back, as one does at the start of a new year, I had a warm glow from how my Funky-Bizness choirs have grown.

But it’s not just the numbers. It’s the sheer fun had along the way.

Every session of singing is such a delight. To see people settling into the beauty of the sound they are making and lighting up inside is an enormous joy. Couple that with humour and you have a brilliant way to spend an evening.

Our first Performance Party in Exeter was just before Christmas and the choir sang beautifully (a choir personal best), creating a lovely atmosphere and rapport with the audience. Then my four-piece band took over and played some of my African-style guitar tunes. The already warmed up people responded and the room was rocking.

That much joy in a room is to be treasured - and we raised over £200 for Exeter’s homeless!

This year it has been a profound shock to me to discover how many people

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think they can’t sing.

I told you in the last issue about Diane, who after a bad experience at school thought she couldn’t sing. Whenever there was a carol service, funeral or gathering of any kind where people were singing she just mimed. She wanted to join in but couldn’t.

In the course of six oneto-one sessions with me before Christmas she completely transformed that and sang in loads of carol services and loved it.

It wasn’t hard. The breathing is most of it. Then songs on two or three notes to develop an inner sense of pitch.

Then suddenly there is all this joy to tap into. It’s so simple!

Then there was the singing round the Christmas tree in the café/foyer with my NHS workplace choir. Again so full of joy! That’s what Christmas is really about! Yes, so much to be grateful for!

Come try us out. On Tuesdays in St Sidwells Community Centre, Exeter (EX4 6NN) and on Thursdays at Pomphlett Methodist Centre, Plymouth (PL9 7BL). They both run 7.15-9pm and first sessions are FREE. Visit www. funky-bizness.co.uk/choir.

We’d love to see you there!

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

news&views Sing a song of transition DOES no-one listen when you start going on about low-carbon economies and the Transition movement?

Maybe you need to break into song…

The Something Wonderful in My Back Yard (SWIMBY) songbook is the work of friend of Reconnect Matt Harvey and award-winning composer Thomas Hewitt Jones – and you can download it free of charge from the website www.

SWIMBYmusical.com In it, you will find 12 songs with piano and guitar accompaniment – plus a knitting pattern for carbon dioxide particles and a recipe for Gullible Stew.

No, really.

SWIMBY was crowd-funded with help from 135 lovely generous people and also had funds from The Arts Council and Big Lottery.

There’s still work to be done. There are one or two more songs to come, Matt is scribbling away to write all the interlinking scenes and Thomas will have a whole lot of orchestrating to do!

Watch this space!

Warm your heart with these hot village tours

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S we go to press, early blossom is putting a spring in our step but it’ll be a month or two before we break out the barbie.

Luckily, Devonians can still get together in the warmth of their local village hall to enjoy high-quality entertainment. For 22 years now, the rural touring scheme Villages in Action has been taking world-class, awardwinning acts to village halls across the county.

This Spring, their programme ratchets up a notch and they offer low-cost tickets to over 65 live events, including: BBC Radio Two Folk Award-winners; plays to transport you from Fin de Siècle France to the Antartic; and touring musicians from South Africa and Zambia, not to mention belly-laughs from a much-loved Radio 4 Comedian.

Check out the full programme at www. villagesinaction. co.uk, where you can also find ways to support their ongoing programme, which relies on private funding.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Capella world music from Black Voices, above (in South Brent on March 11) and, left, Namvula, whose eclectic fusion of Zambian, Scottish and London can be heard at Sheldon village hall near Honiton (March 31), Harbertonford village hall (April 1) and Stokeinteignhead village hall (April 2).

Over 40s

THE Young at Heart Club in Exeter is open to anyone over 40 who wants to enjoy music, games, talks, bingo or just meeting people.

Coming events include: February 5th - Neighbourhood Friends; 19th – British Lung Foundation; 26th – Hidden Realms.

March: 4th – Quaker Movement; 11th – Devon Freewheelers; 18th – Moorvision.

Drop in at St Sidwell’s Community Centre, 1.30-3.30pm. Call 01392 666222.

New festie

THE band British Sea Power will headline a new festival in Totnes on August band holiday weekend, August 26 and 27.

Also on the line-up will be Luke Abbott, Matthew and Me, Rival Consoles and Heavenly Recordings – another announcement of artists is expected as we go to press – visit www. seachangefestival. co.uk.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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news&views Rewild yourself this Spring!

THE RSPB’s Morwenna Alldis always writes with passion, as you’d expect from someone who is becoming a regular in Reconnect. This time, though, she writes about things that are particularly close to her heart…

A

S someone who works within the conservation sector and lives with depression, I’m very aware of the powerful, positive effect that a connection with the natural world can have upon an individual’s mental health.

Being outdoors in nature has always been my passion and at those times when the socalled ‘black dog’ hounds my steps, I turn to nature for comfort, perspective, reassurance, relaxation and inspiration.

For me a connection with the natural world is fundamental to understanding

our place on this planet and a disconnection from nature can lead to feelings of loneliness, displacement and isolation. In today’s society where studies have shown that our relationship with nature is worryingly disjointed, it is perhaps unsurprising that one in four adults live with a mental health issue.

We also mustn’t ignore the links between the worrying decline of wildlife in the UK, as illustrated in the 2013 State of Nature Report, and the fact that four out of five UK children have no connection to nature. A recent survey has shown that fewer than 10% of children play in natural places, compared to 40% in the 1970s.

If we are to stand any chance of raising a future generation of nature guardians, it’s really important we inspire in young people a fascination, understanding and empathy for the natural world. And this starts in their homes, communities and schools.

As spring starts to emerge from her winter slumber, now is the perfect time of year to reconnect with nature – plus it doesn’t have to be time consuming either and you can get the whole family involved.

Check out the list of Springtime nature activities - even these little connections with nature can be a tonic for the soul and help to increase both your physical and mental wellbeing.

So get out there and re-wild yourself this Spring!

Simple Springtime nature activities l Take a 10 minute walk in a natural space like your local park or on the beach. l Top-up the bird feeders in your garden in readiness for the start of the breeding season in March/April. l Make birdseed cakes with the kids – great, messy fun for the family. l Watch the sun set. l Create a mini pond in your garden – a huge benefit for all sorts of wildlife. l Make a bug hotel in your garden. l Splash in a puddle. l Wrap-up and star gaze. l Bring nature into your workplace environment in the form of plants or natural ‘found’ objects like sea shells.

For more information on outdoor activities and top tips on how to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family, visit: www.rspb.org.uk/makeahomeforwildlife/ givenatureahomeinyourgarden/ www.rspb.org.uk/discoverandenjoynature/families/ index.aspx

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A craft course at Plymouth’s new haberdashery store and cafe, Make.

Sharpham at Capability fest THIS year marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, a designer who created a style that has shaped people’s view of the English countryside.

He is credited with landscaping Sharpham House and its grounds which will be taking part in the Capability Brown Festival. Visit www. capabilitybrown.org.

Sharpham Trust is also holding a Winter tree care and volunteer day on Sunday February 7, an annual event that highlights the work of volunteers. To find out more about the event and volunteering at Sharpham email volunteer@ sharphamtrust.org.

CVS project

SOUTH Hams CVS (Community & Voluntary Services) has launched a year-long project, Facing Forward to 2020, to celebrate their 20th anniversary of supporting local voluntary and community action. The Facing Forward project will help strengthen VCOs that support older and vulnerable people.

Find out more at www. southhamscvso.org.uk.

news&views

BEAUTIFUL ROOMS for groups and individual practice.

FOR TALKING THERAPIES AND HOLISTIC HEALTH

Craft courses on the menu

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ALLING all craft lovers. Make is a new haberdashery store and café that’s running a variety of creative craft workshops in Plymouth.

Situated at 140 Vauxhall St, next to Sutton Harbour and the Barbican, the shop was set up by Lizzy Evans, owner of the award-winning button shop, Funky Poppy.

Lizzy said: “There are lots of different workshops coming up over the coming months, so why not spend some time getting creative with fellow craft enthusiasts?”

Make is offering a Get to Know Your Sewing Machine workshop for beginners, which includes an introduction to what the various parts of the machine do, as well as tips on basic maintenance and needle types.

Or for people with sewing experience, the Meitte Flare workshop offers the chance to make a new piece of clothing using a simple pattern.

Make Creatives is a Wednesday evening session, from 7-9pm, which provides a forum for crafters to get together to share ideas and swap tips with fellow crafters and finish their latest projects.

For more information visit www.makeat140.co.uk or call 01752 600130.

www.thepracticerooms.co.uk 15 - 16 Castle Street, Exeter EX4 3PT

Totnes Progressive School I g n i t i n g

b r i l l i a n c e

We are an independent school where academic success is the result of understanding each student’s educational needs. If you’d like to see your child thrive in a genuinely progressive environment with small class sizes and excellent teachers, please get in touch on 01803 864 484 to arrange a visit. totnesprogressiveschool.co.uk

Harbour arts

VISIT the Harbour House gallery at Kingsbridge to explore the work of primary school children (Primary Colours – February 5-24), sixth form students (Six – March 1-5) and local artists (Trees – open art exhibition, March 19-April 13). Visit www. harbourhouse.org.uk.

City Bike Shed THE Bike Shed Theatre in Exeter has launched “a whole new look”, including a new website, newsletter and trailer. Visit www. bikeshedtheatre.co.uk to find out more.

War Games

WAR Games, an exhibition exploring “the fascinating relationship between conflict and children’s play” will run throughout March at the V&A Museum of Childhood. Visit www. plymouthmuseum.gov. uk.

Tony Beard, left, receives the watercolour painting from Jason Rice, on behalf of the Dartmoor Folk Festival Association.

Festival says thanks to Wag REGULAR visitors to the Dartmoor Folk Festival will recognise Tony Beard, aka the Wag from Widecombe and presenter of BBC Radio Devon Sunday Request Show, as compere of the Music Hall, held on the last night of the festival for the past 35 years.

Tony was presented with a watercolour painting by the Dartmoor Folk Festival Association (DFFA) in recognition of his contribution to the festival over the last four decades.

The painting by South Zeal artist Kari McGowan, shows a scene from the festival, including children broom dancing, musicians, step dancing, morris men, people watching, a marquee and Dartmoor hills in the background. l Turn to page 22 for details of the 2016 Dartmoor Folk Festival and other festivals across the SW.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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Camps promote re-enchantment of childhood

New arts and ecology hub

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HE statistics are alarming.

The average 8-12 year-old is exposed to five hours’ screentime every day. Teenagers look at their smartphones on average 200 times a day (are us adults really any better?). Children’s roaming area has diminished by around 90% in the last 30 years. Experts have identified 13 potential barriers to nature-connection and screens are a major factor - for everyone, not just for children.

The impact of all of this is a lot less time spent outside.

According to WildWise, which runs camps and courses for children, adults and families, there is an effective antidote to too much screen time.

“Time in nature will take us back to a time of simple curiosity,” said Wildwise director Chris Salisbury, “when our instincts were for play and adventure..... a sort of time-travel back to childhood.

“Many of us can remember our childhood when that connection was strong. It concerns me that we are breeding a generation of children without this foundation and Wildwise’s aim is to address that.”

WildWise organises thrilling encounters with nature as part of a diverse programme of events for

children, teenagers and families.

Said Chris: “Our aim is to connect children to nature, but it is increasingly apparent that if we miss out their parents or carers then that connection will only occur in isolated pockets.

“Given half a chance, children love digging in the mud, splashing in streams or chasing butterflies, but it is often the adults who care for them that don’t always support access to the outdoors for children. We don’t want children only to experience nature while they are on camp or during day visits. So, if we can also encourage adults to rediscover what nature brings alive in us, we are supporting both them and their children. We call it a process of re-enchanting.

“And let’s not leave it to the children - re-enchanting our own, continuous childhood, could be just as important.”

Visit: www.wildwise.co.uk.

THE

BEAUTY

Wildwise say time in nature can take us back to a time of simple curiosity.

ROOMS

AN international hub for arts and ecology has been created in Dartington.

The Centre for Contemporary Art and the Natural World (CCANW) has relocated there from the University of Exeter campus and is joined by RANE (Research in Art, Nature and Environment) from Falmouth University.

In preparation for the launch of a new MA/ MFA in Arts and Ecology at Schumacher College in September 2017, CCANW will be supporting a programme of activity, including residential short courses, lectures and talks, conferences and symposia, artist networking events and other artist-led events.

Starting in January, CCANW is holding an exhibition of research findings and work created during 12 residencies across the South West and at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. For more information visit: www.schumachercollege. ac.uk.

AT

AR OMAT I KA ©

MOTHERS DAY COMPLETE BLISS SPA PACKAGE £79 (NORMALLY £100) BACK MASSAGE, AROMATIKA SIGNATURE FACIAL, JESSICA GELERATION PEDICURE

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86 QUEEN ST EXETER EX4 3RP 01392 256788

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Goingout

NO local people local events local food local health local environment FEAT W

OURBIGGUIDETO BIG LOCAL EVENTS ARTS & CRAFTS THE FIRST HUMANS Until April 2 ‘Contemporary art with a prehistoric feel”, Plymouth Arts Centre, www. plymouthartscentre.org.

LINE-UP Until March 16 Monohrome objects in

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2016 monthly roller disco, Hannahs at SealeHayne, Newton Abbot, 3.30-9.30pm, www. discoverhannahs.org.

New-look listing with extra high-quality content!

WELCOME to the new-look GoingOut pages, with a new catagorised format, more entries and an even more comprehensive version online at www. reconnecthub.co.uk (part of the comprehensive SW HubCast network) - or visit it via our new website at our usual address, www.reconnectonline.co.uk.

ADAM GARRATT Until March 12 Suspended nylon 3D ‘drawings’. Gallery 333, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk.

ARTISTS’ REFLECTIONS Until February 7 Artists create reflections on RAMM collections.

Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM), Queen Street, Exeter, 10am to 5pm. www. rammuseum.org.uk EXETER’S FINE ART COLLECTION Until April 4 Topographical prints drawings and watercolours of Exeter, Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 10am to 5pm. www. rammuseum.org.uk

FREE URING ENTR ONLINE MOR IES AND E IN EXPO -MAG SURE

CLASSICAL MUSIC

To get YOUR event listed online and maybe in the magazine too, simply register at ReconnectHub and type it in FREE of charge!

And to advertise on these pages or online, call Martin on 01363 868455 or email editor@reconnectonline.co.uk. styled groups, Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey, 10am to 5.30pm. www.crafts. org.uk.

BETWEEN THE MESS AND THE MACHINE Until February 28 Work created by the students and staff at Coombeshead Academy, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, 10am to 4pm. www.discoverhannahs. org/seale-hayne PRIMARY COLOURS February 5-24 A celebration of the creativity of young artists from 13 local primary schools

Harbour House The Promenade Kingsbridge, 10am to 5pm, www. harbourhouse.org.uk RICHARD SALTER February 5-27 Retrospective of the artist Richard Slater, Artmill Gallery, 83 Hyde Park Road Plymouth, 9.30am5pm.

SIX March 1-5 Kingsbridge Community College A Level art and photography exhibition, Harbour House,Kingsbridge 10am-5pm. www. harbourhouse.org.uk

TREES: OPEN ART EXHIBITION March 19-April 3 A varied exhibition featuring local artists’ responses to the theme of trees, Harbour House Gallery, Kingsbridge.

10am-5pm, www. harbourhouse.org.uk.

CHILDREN AND FAMILY EVENTS GANGSTA GRANNY February 2-6 Friday nights are about to get more exciting than Ben could ever imagine...

Northcott Theatre, Exeter, www. exeter northcott.co.uk.

PHYSICAL COMEDY WITH LE NAVET BETE February 15-18 Physical comedy half-term workshop for 13-19-year-olds, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk.

EXTRAORDINARY SCHOOL FOR KIDS March 26 Activity-packed bushcraft day for 8-12 yr olds (during Easter hols), WildWise, Dartington Estate, Totnes, 10am-4pm, www. wildwise.co.uk ROLLER DISCO February 27 The Revolution Skate team return for their

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA February 4 BSO conductor Pete Harrison, ‘Epic Galactic Soundtrack’ The Great Hall, Exeter University, 7.30pm, www.exeter.ac.uk.

EXETER PHILHARMONIC CHOIR WORKSHOP February 6 A choral workshop on Verdi’s requiem led

by Andrew Millington, Exeter Philharmonic Choir, Mint Methodist Church, Exeter, 9.30am-5pm, www. exephil.org.uk.

ELLEN KENT’S TOSCA February 18 An Ellen Kent production of Puccini’s Tosca, Princess Theatre Torquay, 7.30pm.

NORTHERN BRASS February 21 Accomplished brass quintet plays works by Ewald, Scheidt, Bizet

LINE-UP: at Devon Guild of Craftsmen until March 16.

PRIMARY COLOURS: Kids’ stuff at Harbour House in Kingsbridge

LE NAVET BETE: Physical comedy workshop.

Last Friday of each month at St John’s Church, Bridgetown

February 26th

The John Langan Band and Nessi Gomes Exceptional night - book early (£12/£10)

March 25th

Fraser Anderson & Red Foot Crow Both brilliant bands (£12/£10) Tickets at Sacks Wholefoods in Totnes or online www.wegottickets.com Doors open 6.30pm for delicious organic soup, locally brewed craft beers, and scrummy cake.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Loving the land: Acoustic Haven supports The Hillyfield and The Living Projects www.thehillyfield.co.uk www.acoustichaven.co.uk

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

9

LOTS more events and info online:

GOING OUT

MARK STEEL: At Exeter’s Corn Exchange on tour with his latest stand-up show, Who Do I Think I Am?, on March 20. .

WILDWISE

Reconnect with the Wild Spring 2016 Events in the Wilds of Devon MAR 26: EXTRAORDINARY SCHOOL FOR KIDS (8-12 YRS) - DARTINGTON APRIL 4: NIGHTPADDLE ON THE RIVER DART - TOTNES APR 29: WILD FOOD POP UP FEAST - DARTINGTON APR 30/MAY 1: OVERNIGHT RIVER PADDLE - TOTNES MAY 2: WILD FOODS BY CANOE - TOTNES MAY 7: SEASHORE EDIBLES DAY - EAST PRAWLE MAY 21/22: COASTAL WALKABOUT - EAST PRAWLE

For more info and our full programme of events: 01803 868269 | info@wildwise.co.uk | www.wildwise.co.uk

p U g e n s i i R Sing Voice Camp on Dartmoor dedicated to the joy of singing!

July 22nd to 31st 2016 beautiful Dartmoor meadow * organic food community living * gospel to jazz, blues to taize

info & booking: www.riseupsinging.co.uk 10

& Kamen. NADSA Concerts, Courtenay Centre, Newton Abbot, 3-5.45pm, www. nadsa.co.uk.

VIOLIN RECITAL BY EMMANUEL BACH February 28 Violinist Emmanuel Bach performs Bach sonatas and other works, Exeter Bach Society, Exeter Cathedral, 7.159.30pm, www.exeter bachsociety.org.uk.

CHORAL CLASSICS & SCHUBERT MASS IN G March 12 A concert of choral classics performed by the South Devon Choir, Central Church, Torquay, 7.30-9.45pm. www. southdevonchoir.org.

DEVON YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA March 12 Monthly Saturday gathering day at Kay House, Exeter, 10am to 4.30pm, www.dyjo.org.

EXETER PHILHARMONIC CHOIR & SINFONIETTA March 12 Exeter Philharmonic Choir directed by Andrew Millington with The Sinfonietta.

Exeter Philharmonic Choir, Exeter Cathedral, Exeter 7.30-9.30pm.

SACCONI STRING QUARTET March 19 Music by Mozart, Schubert and Fitkin, NADSA Concerts, Performing Arts Centre, Teignmouth, 7-9.45pm. www. nadsa.co.uk.

MUSIC FROM SHAKESPEARE’S PLAYS March 19 Ashburton Singers, St Lawrence Chapel, Ashburton, 7.309.30pm.

PLYMOUTH PHILHARMONIC CHOIR March 20 Bach: St John Passion, BBC Music Plymouth Philharmonic Choir & Orchestra, Plymouth Guildhall, 7.30-10pm.

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CHOIRS

FARMERS MARKETS

BEREAVEMENT CHOIR Mondays through February and March Sing with Peter Scott at Heart and Soul Funerals, Riverstone, Buckfastleigh, www. heartandsoulfunerals. co.uk for details.

ASHBURTON Five days a week Tuckers’ Yard, Ashburton.

BOVEY TRACEY Alernate Saturdays Town Square, Bovey Tracey.

BUCKFASTLEIGH Every Thursday Globe Inn car park 9am till 12 noon DARTMOUTH Every second Saturday The Old Market, Dartmouth.

EXETER Every Thursday Junction of South Street and Fore Street.

EXMOUTH Every second Wednesday The Strand Gardens, Exmouth.

ILFRACOMBE Every first and third Saturday St Peter’s Church, Ilfracombe.

IVYBRIDGE Hartford Road car park, Ivybridge.

KINGSBRIDGE Every first and third Saturday Town Square, Kingsbridge.

MANATON Third Thursday Manaton Parish Hall Manaton.

NEWTON ABBOT Every Tuesday Courtney Street, Newton Abbot.

PLYMOUTH Every first Sunday Royal William Yard, Plymouth.

TEIGNMOUTH Every last Saturday The Triangle, Teignmouth.

COMEDY RORY MCGRATH February 4 Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk TOMMY TIERNAN February 12 Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter. www.exeter.gov. uk/cornexchange.

GARY DELANEY March 12 Mock the Week regular and one-liner maestro, The Flavel, Dartmouth, 8pm, www. theflavel. org.uk.

STEVE HALL - ZEBRA March 10 Writer for Russell Howard’s Good News and regular on Frank Skinner’s radio programme, The Flavel, Dartmouth, 8pm, www. theflavel.org.uk MARK STEEL March 20 A new stand-up show, ‘Who Do I Think I Am’?

Exeter Corn Exchange, Corn Exchange, Exeter, 8pm, www.exeter.gov. uk/cornexchange.

BRIAN CONLEY March 27 Babbacombe Theatre, Torquay, 8-10.00pm, www babbacombetheatre. co.uk

DANCE ZULU TRADITION February 3 Dance and Music from KwaZulu Natal with traditional costume and drumming, Villages in Action, The Village Hall, Lustleigh, 7-9pm. www. villagesinaction. co.uk.

EXHIBITI0NS WHATEVER THE WEATHER Until February 10 Exhibition exploring the weather, Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Queen Street, Exeter,

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

www.reconnectonline.co.uk/diary DEPRESSION DRAMA: Fake It ‘Til You Make It - at Barbican Theatre.

BJORK: Movie version of her Biophilia album - at Exeter Phoenix.

10am-5pm, www. rammuseum.org.uk HOME FRONT FASHIONS Until April 15 Part of a four-year programme focusing on WWI’s impact on the southwest, Royal Albert Memorial Museum, RAMM, Queen Street, Exeter, 10am-5pm.

LIVE MUSIC BARNFIELD BAR PRESENTS February 6 An evening of alternative acoustics and gypsy jazz, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm, www. barnfieldtheatre.org.uk HOWARD JONES February 7 Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, 7.30pm, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk THE SIMON AND GARFUNKEL STORY February 21 Barnfield Theatre, Exeter, 7.30pm, www. barnfieldtheatre.org.uk.

SONG FROM A SMALL TRAIN February 12/13 Fifty singers and musicians perform original songs of journeys and refugees, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth, 7.309.30pm.

STEVE KNIGHTLEY February 12 As part of his All At Sea tour, The Flavel, Dartmouth, 7.30pm, www. theflavel.org.uk.

DREADZONE February 13 Band plays a fusion of dub, reggae, techno, folk and rock. Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk.

ACOUSTIC HAVEN February 26 The John Langan Band with support Nessi Gomes, St John’s Church, Bridgetown, Totnes, doors open 6.30pm, tickets from Sacks Wholefoods in

Totnes and from www. wegottickets.com. www.acoustichaven. co.uk.

JO HARMAN March 3 Highly acclaimed young blues singer part of Vibraphonic Festival, Exeter Phenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk.

SKY + TUBES March 9 New music by Pete Canter for cello and jazz trio, plus music for alto flute and bass clarinet, part of Vibraphonic Festival, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk.

ACOUSTIC HAVEN March 25 Fraser Anderson Band, plus Red Foot Crow, St John’s Church, Bridgetown, Totnes, doors open 6.30pm, tickets from Sacks Wholefoods in Totnes and from www. wegottickets.com. www. acoustichaven.co.uk

WOODAH FARM PRACTICAL TASK DAYS February 27 Various tasks at this beautiful site on the last Saturday of every month, Devon Wildlife Trust, Woodah Farm, Doddiscombsleigh, 9.30am-2.30pm, www.drst.org.uk.

WOODAH FARM PRACTICAL TASK DAYS March 26 Various tasks at this beautiful site on the last Saturday of every month, Devon Wildlife Trust, Woodah Farm, Doddiscombsleigh, 9.30am-2.30pm, www.drst.org.uk.

RSPB - A New Approach to Bird Identification February 9 Southernhay United Reformed Church, Exeter, 7.30pm, www. rspb.org.uk.

RSPB - A morning trip to Riverside Valley Park February 26 Matford Marsh, Exeter, 9.25am.www.rspb. org.uk.

VOLUNTEER DAY February 7 A family day of volunteering at Sharpham House, Totnes, 10.30am to 4pm, www. sharphamtrust.org.

transgender pioneer, TARTE NOIRE The Flavel, Dartmouth, March 8 2.30 on Feb 2, 7.30 LIving in Uncertain on Feb 3, www.

Times (women only), theflavel.org.uk Bogan House, Totnes, 8pm, www.tartenoire.

JAR CITY co.uk.

February 3 Part of the Scandifilm FALLING season, Exeter Phoenix, February 19-24 Gandy Street, www.

Theatre Alibi with live exeterphoenix.org.uk. performance, projection and puppetry, Eeter SIGUR ROS: HEIMA Phoenix, Gandy Street, February 8 www.exeterphoenix.

Part of the Scandifilm org.uk. season, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, 7.30pm FAKE IT ‘TIL YOU MAKE IT February 26/27 LE MEPRIS Men suffering from February 9-11 clinical depression, Godard’s study of Barbican Theatre, a rock marriage Plymouth, 8-10pm, newly restored by www.barbicantheatre. the BFI, Plymouth co.uk.

Arts Centre, www. plymouthartscentre.org IMBALANCE March 18 BJORK: BIOPHILIA LIVE Fusion of acrobatics, February 11 dance and circus, Part of the Scandifilm Barbican Theatre, season, Exeter Phoenix, Plymouth, 7.30Gandy Street, www.

9.30pm, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk.

THE NEW WAY TO GET EVENTS barbicantheatre.co.uk.

GUEROS INTO RECONNECT MAGAZINE MIRROR MIRROR February 26-March 3 March 24 Witty and charming Living in Uncertain addition to Mexican Your event Times, Bogan House, new wave, Plymouth will also gain Totnes, 8pm, www.

Arts Centre, www. mirrormirrortheatre. valuable plymouthartscentre.org co.uk.

IDA and February 27 immediately Haunting and exposurePolish online THE DANISH GIRL controversial fim February 2/3 Follaton Community The story of a Cinema, Totnes, doors

westdorsethub

ON THE LAND AGROFORESTRY VOLUNTEER DAY February 3 Various seasonal tasks. www.treesforhealth.org.

WINTER TREE CARE AND VOLUNTEER DAY February 7 Sharpham Estate, www. sharphamtrust.org.

HEDGE LAYING February 20 A practical one-day introduction to the ancient art of hedge laying, Devon Rural Skills Trust Woodah Farm, Exeter, 9.30am4.30pm, www.drst.org. uk.

WARLEIGH POINT PRACTICAL DAYS March 17/18 Help out at the reserve with coppicing, path improvements and scrub clearance, Devon Wildlife Trust, Warleigh Point Nature Reserve, Plymouth, www.drst.org.uk.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

THEATRE MIRROR MIRROR February 25 Living in Uncertain Times, Bogan House, Totnes, 8pm, www. mirrormirrortheatre.co.uk JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR (Schools Version) March 3/4 Maynard School, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter, 2pm, www. barnfieldtheatre.org.uk SKIN DEEP February 5/6 The year is 1980 and four lives are about to be touched, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter, 7.30-8.30pm, www. cygnettheatre.co.uk

Get your events in RECONNECT mag Register at: reconnecthub.co.uk then add your events.

It’s easy & totally free.

FILM

open 7pm, www. follatoncommunity cnema.co.uk UNDER MILK WOOD March 26 ‘Surreal’ and ‘raunchy’ version of classic Dylan Thomas play for voices, Follaton Community Cinema.co.uk, doors open 7pm, www. follatoncommunity cinema.co.uk

TALKS AND GROUPS VICTIMS OF DECEPTION February 25 Monthly meeting and talk with Ash Jones of SCLT, Exeter U3A, Mint Methodist Church, Exeter, 10am-12am.

SOCIAL READING GROUP Tuesdays through February and March.

For the bereaved with Sarah Hopkins, at Heart and Soul Funerals, Riverstone, Buckfastleigh, www. heartandsoulfunerals. co.uk for details.

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP March 3 Learn to take photos of your 3D artwork with Mei Lim, Devon Guild of Craftsmen The Tin Shed Studio, Shaldon, 10am-4pm.

reconnecthub The new way to get YOUR event into Reconnect’s GoingOut pages TO ADVERTISE your event on our new diary website, Reconnecthub, simply visit www.reconnecthub.co.uk and register then you can enter your own events.

AND some of them will appear in the next (Apr/May) issue of Reconnect magazine.

AND they will be viewed through other EventHub websites (across the SW).

AND it’s all FREE! (There are some online advertisements available too and it’s first come, first served - so call Martin now on 01803 868455)

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

11

ORGANICGARDENING OK, so it rained. It rained a great deal. But get over it it’s a new season and Joa’s got so many jobs for you to get stuck into, starting with some sowing...

Time to start sowing and planting

W

ELL, what a wet Winter we have just had. I just hope that by the time this goes to print the ground may have dried up a bit. It’s the beginning of a new growing year, so let’s all keep our fingers crossed that it’s going to be a plentiful one.

For those of you with green houses it’s time for repairing, cleaning and sowing. Now, I know I’ve said this before but don’t forget you don’t have to sow a whole packet every time the majority of seeds will last two or three years if you store them properly in a cool dry place (a biscuit tin in a cool shed is ideal).

Keep an eye on the forecast for frosts because plants in an unheated green house may still need just a little more extra protection. A small paraffin heater on its lowest setting will keep it at bay and it’s amazing how much protection a piece of horticultural fleece can give.

If you’re growing your seeds on a window sill in the house, don’t forget that as soon as your seedlings start to come through the compost, you’ll need to turn the pots or trays every day to stop them becoming tall and straggly.

Outside, it’s tidy-up time.

Remove any old and unwanted plants, weeds and canes left from the previous season. Spread homemade compost or wellrotted (over a year old) manure over your beds. No need to dig it in - the worms will do it for you.

Feed any Autumn-planted brassicas with liquid comfrey or a general fertiliser and pick your purple sprouting broccoli regularly to encourage more

spears - you’ve waited months for it to produce so you might as well get the maximum crop from it.

Seed potatoes are now available.

As always we will have a selection of certified organic early and main crop at both the nursery and our market stall at Totnes market.

Chitting or sprouting is not essential but does help them get off to good start. Place them in seed trays or egg boxes for a few weeks in the green house or on a window sill. The growing shoots should be nice and short and stocky, not tall pale and spindly because these will probably get damaged while being planted out. If you want to grow larger spuds rather than lots of small ones, remove all the shoots bar the three strongest ones. Also, when planting don’t forget to label which are your early potatoes and which are your main crop. Earlies you dig up from July onwards, as and when you need them, and your main crop are ready for harvesting in the Autumn for using and storing over the Winter months (I’ve just finished mine!).

Garlic bulbs, onion sets and shallots will also be available now. Split your garlic bulb into cloves and plant 1-2 inches deep. Onions and shallots need just the bottom half of the bulb pushed into the soil. Do check them regularly after planting because birds just love to undo all your hard work by pulling them back up. Deter them by hanging a few old CDs from canes. l We will be back at Totnes market from mid-February on Fridays and mid-March on Saturdays. Growers Organics in Yealmpton will be reopening on Monday February 15.

Strawberry fields forever...

OK, well maybe not a whole field but how about at least a small patch?

Make sure your area of land has been weeded thoroughly - these plants are going to be in this bed for the next 4-5 years before they will need replacing. If you’re planning to plant lots, you may wish to get a few different varieties. By purchasing an early, main and late variety you could be picking fruits for around 5-6 weeks.

Plant them 20-30cm apart in straight rows, which will make it easier to weed between them - and easier too to pick your lovely strawbs. And don’t forget that if you wish to increase your crop this can be done very easily by removing runners (small plants that grow on the ends of long stems from the parent plants) and potting them up into individual small pots and then out into the garden. Roll on Summer - I can almost taste them now…

Whatever jobs you find yourself getting up to in the garden, enjoy!

Reconnect’s Organic Gardening column is written by Joa Grower of Growers Organics. Meet her at Totnes market on Fridays and Saturdays.

Visit www.growersorganics.com, or call 01752 881180.

12

State-funded Steiner education? Never!

THE last couple of years have been a busy time for the Steiner movement - and for their Exeter school in particular. Head Alan Swindell, right, picks up the story...

T

HREE years ago, nothing, and now look at it. I can’t believe what I am seeing...

It was a grandparent speaking, fresh from a Christmas assembly in which our pupils and many of their parents had filled our new hall to bursting on the final day of term. Three years ago the Steiner Academy Exeter did not exist: no teachers, no pupils or parents, no premises. Now, after two years on a temporary site, we are starting to fill our beautiful new home at Thomas Hall, on the south western edge of the city.

It is sometimes difficult to remember how far we have come in such a short space of time. Steiner education, state funded? Never. In most other developed countries of the world, yes, but surely not here, where it had only been available to those who could afford it? And in Exeter? And in purpose-built classrooms, nestling in beautifully landscaped grounds?

Today the dream has indeed become a reality: 250 children converge daily on Thomas Hall from all over Exeter, their number growing annually. (The

full capacity of 625 will be reached by the end of this decade with an age range from 4-16.)

Parents and teachers attracted to our school are looking for something different.

In a sense, the whole educational sector is on the same journey: something needs to change, but no one is quite sure what. All good schools know that enthusiasm is the friend of real learning, not fear, and yet much that is done in the name of education feeds the latter and stunts the former.

Steiner schools have offered a different model for over 90 years, adapting core principles to every imaginable cultural context, but never losing sight of the need to bring the right thing at the right time with creativity, artistry, activity and in response to the child’s developmental needs, not in response to the latest policy knee-jerk.

Our school offers the Steiner curriculum as an antidote to the anxiety and fear that are so evident in education and the world at large. Enthusiastic children learn, and through their learning they aspire to be part of the world and to contribute to it, ready to engage with its complex challenges. Perhaps our school’s whirlwind journey over the last three years has not only provided a new school, but also a working example to its pupils on how to achieve the improbable through enthusiasm and hard work.

Does your mum deserve pampering?

WE all deserve a little pampering, of course, but who deserves it most of all? Need another clue? Well, it’s Mother’s Day on March 6…

One local business, with shops in Exeter and Totnes, has arranged a very special treat for the mum in your life – a complete, luxurious spa treatment (normally £100) for just £79.

The Beauty Rooms at Aromatika uses their own locally made, organic, natural products, and the Bliss Spa Package includes a back massage (ooooh…), the Aromatika Signature Facial (aaaah…) and a Jessica Geleration pedicure (mmmm…).

Aromatika first opened treatment rooms at its Totnes branch at 63 Fore Street and very soon saw its potential. So when they opened their second branch in Exeter in 2014, beauty rooms were at the centre of the business.

Aromatika’s founder Lisa Hosking said: “We renovated an elegant Victorian townhouse on Exeter’s

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

Queen Street into a boutique day spa, with four spacious treatment rooms.”

As well as the Mother’s Day special, Aromatika offers a range of packages, including: the one-hour Escape and Unwind (express facial and manicure or pedicure - £45); the new 2hr 30min Tranquility Spa Package (signature facial and full body massage); and the 4hr 30mins Ultimate Indulgence (Frangipani body scrub, full body massage, classic facial and a luxury manicure or pedicure).

To find out more, visit www.exeterbeauty.co.uk or www.totnesbeauty. co.uk.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

The Totnes Library Writing Group, which has produced a book titled Gallimaufry.

Fancy a bit of what does you good?

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Library group produces book GALLIMAUFRY means a ridiculous medley or a hodge-podge and it is the title given to the first ever collection of poems, short stories and memoirs by The Totnes Library Writing Group.

The group started in 2013, bringing together writers from Totnes and the surrounding area to share their writing, take part in workshops and discuss problems and challenges.

The group includes a gardener, care worker, home tutor, counsellor, IT expert, bowls player,

theatre producer, artists, teachers, psychologist, editor, journalists and a film maker. Some are established writers, while others are beginners.

One of the contributors to the book said: “Writing can be such a solitary business. It’s so good to have a warm, supportive group to meet up with on a regular basis.”

For more information please contact the library on 01803 862210. To purchase a copy of the book, email Fiona Murray at: fmurray0@yahoo.co.uk.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

E all know that reducing our alcohol consumption makes sense, but for many of us the idea of cutting back on something we enjoy or omitting it from our lives all together can leave us feeling a bit depressed.

But, what if we focused on what we can increase in our lives rather than what we reduce or omit? Maybe doing what truly nourishes us is more likely to extend our lifespan than avoiding what might kill us.

Daverick Leggett, who runs Rise Up Singing, a camp on Dartmoor that takes place in July, believes so.

He said: “The desire to sing together is as ancient as human civilization itself and recent studies have proved what we already know - that singing together actually improves our health and wellbeing.

“The National Trust recently commissioned a study which showed how increasing our connection with nature is positively correlated with a decrease in negative social behaviours. And, of course, various studies over the years have shown how our sense of belonging and connection within

our community is the best indicator of a long and healthy life.

“So, what better way to invest in your health and wellbeing than to join a camp like Rise Up Singing? This quietly passionate camp creates an inclusive, welcoming and fertile sense of tribal community and combines the beauty of Dartmoor with the uplifting opportunity to sing every day.”

This year’s camp runs from July 22-31.

“Maybe instead of focusing on the don’ts, it’s time to focus on the dos,” says Daverick.

“Don’t agonise about counting the drinks or the calories. Get yourself down to a Devon meadow and sing your heart out!”

For more information call 01803 762417.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

13

School Farm at Dartington - a veg

box scheme with a difference. local people food local health local environment LOCAL PRODUCE local events local

Go Vegan city events THERE will be a chance to again enjoy a taste of vegan delights in April, courtesy of Exeter Friends For Animals and Fairfoods.

The Go Vegan 2016 launch event will be held at St Stephen’s Church on Exeter High Street, Saturday April 2, 11am-3pm.

Then, on Saturday April 23, the Vegan Fair & Bake Sale will be held at the Palace Gate Centre, 10.30am-3pm – expect cakes and bakes, plus stalls, information, nutrition corner, raffle and vegan café. All proceeds to animal campaigns.

Look out too for news of a film, street stalls and a Great Vegan Breakfast – dates TBC. Visit www.effa-uk. org or their Facebook page, email mail@ effa-uk.org, or call 07796 581915.

Veg box scheme benefits growers and community

T

HE concept of veg boxes is familiar to everyone but one scheme operating in South Devon is a little different. And what makes it different is right there in its name: School Farm Community Supported Agriculture (CSA).

A CSA is a membership farming scheme and that connection to the community has benefits on both sides: the farm can be sure of a market for its produce (always a major concern for the smaller grower); and the customers know exactly where and how (and by whom) their food is being produced.

School Farm at Dartington, now in its fourth year of production, is currently open to new members who for their £450 membership will receive a range of freshly harvested, organic vegetables (roughly 5-10 items per week).

Chantelle, a long-standing member of the scheme, said: “It’s excellent value for money. It works out at around £15 per week for a largish box of fresh, organic produce – it feeds our family of three hungry people with some to spare.”

Members also receive a monthly CSA newsletter with recipes and farm updates, and are invited to attend events, volunteer days and courses at the farm.

Said Chantelle: “Members are encouraged to get as involved (or not) as they want, and there are regular child-friendly open days for families to see the farm, learn how crops grow, and meet the staff, volunteers and other members.”

Grant funds fruitful project ORCHARD Link has secured a grant of £40,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund to revitalise community orchards in South Devon and support and sustain the groups who are looking after them.

Orchard Link, a voluntary group of local orchard owners, is working with South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Unit to deliver the two-year project.

An Orchard Link spokesperson said: The community orchards grow just over 1000 trees and are within walking distance to thousands of people. They are open access and so are an important open green space as well as a wildlife resource and landscape heritage feature.

“The sites vary in condition but all have the enthusiasm of volunteer groups who just need the skills and expertise to manage them to their full potential. Visit www. orchardlink.org.uk.

School Farm is run by Jenny Gellatly, Melissa Harvey and Laura Green. Email members@schoolfarmcsa.org.uk or visit www.schoolfarmcsa.org.uk.

Egg producer lays out for new premises

L

OCAL organic egg producers Laydilay have moved into new premises as demand for their organic meringues, mayonnaise and macaroons continues to grow.

Laydilay started making meringues in 2007 – first in their home kitchen and later in community kitchen space rented in Exeter for one day a week. In 2009 they added mayonnaise to their range and rented a kitchen in Ashburton full-time.

Sales continued to grow and they’ve been looking for suitable premises for two years, pausing only to pick up an award in the finals of Soil Association Awards in 2014.

Now they’ve moved into four rooms one of them an office – “No more kitchen table bookwork for me!” says Laydilay’s Mandy Johnson.

“We’ve found a great place in Buckfastleigh, in the same building as Clive’s Pies and next door to Dragonfly, so we feel very at home,” says Mandy.

Meanwhile, the egg producing unit near Ashburton continues to grow too, the latest extra flock of 450 hens taking the total to 2,250.

“We make every effort not to cull our older hens and currently have some for sale looking for a retirement home,” Mandy said. “They are two years-old and are still laying well but we need the shed space for our young hens. Anyone interested should ring Andy on 07980 746622.

Visit www.laydilay.co.uk.

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local people local events local food local health local environment LOCAL PRODUCE Assembly puts local produce online

Natural Wood

A

100% Local & Sustainable from Dartmoor

NEW online service will allow shoppers in the Kingsbridge area to buy fresh produce direct from local farmers and makers.

As from the end of January, customers can order food on The Food Assembly website (www.thefoodassembly. com) and collect weekly on Wednesday evening from The Help the Aged Centre, Quay House, near Kingsbridge library.

FIREWOOD

£75 per m3 - Free delivery within 7 miles

ROCKET LOGS

Garden log candles - £20 plus delivery Emily Reed, the beekeeper at Village Farm, below, is organiser of The Food Assembly.

The Kingsbridge Assembly is organised by Emily Reed, the beekeeper at Village Farm, East Portlemouth, an ambitious regenerative ‘Farm for the Future’.

As well as helping to create a sense of community and supporting local business, says Emily, the direct sales allow a better price for the producer (83.3% of sales) while still maintaining competitive prices for the customer.

Weekly shoppers can choose from a wide range of local products,

Planks, cladding, rocket-logs, raised beds and timber for all your needs.

Call Doug on 07976589927 or visit www.thehillyfield.co.uk

The Food Assembly came to the UK in July 2014 and assemblies have opened across the country since then.

“The assembly is a fair and sociable way to sell directly to the local community,” says Emily. “Community is at the heart of The Food Assembly - it connects neighbours to farmers, neighbours to each other, and everyone to their food. Each Food Assembly is a neighbourhood meeting point.”

QUALITY TIMBER

At School Farm Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) we believe in fresh local food, produced in a way that cares for people and the planet.

including: artisan bread from The Bakery, Frogmore; organic milk from Challon’s Combe dairy in Aveton Gifford; 100% pasture-fed lamb from Village Farm, East Portlemouth; fresh local fish straight off the boats from Britannia Shellfish, Beesands; beers from South Hams Brewery, and more.

From June to December we distribute a weekly box of seasonal, freshly picked vegetables to our members. All produce is grown by our own hands at our three-acre site on the Dartington Estate.

We are now open to new members for the 2016 season! If you are interested in joining, please contact jenny@schoolfarmcsa.org.uk.

Membership costs £450 per year, with the option to pay monthly or all in one go (a limited number of subsidised places are available).

“People can get better food than at the not-so-super supermarkets,” said Emily, “and there’s nothing like meeting the farmer who picks your vegetables and coming together with your neighbours.”

Visit www.thefoodassembly.com.

Call Andy on 07980 746622 - www.laydilay.co.uk

Community food store up for award AS we go to press, Exeter’s community-owned Real Food Store is up for Best Independent Food Retailer in the Food Reader Awards – and as you read this, they might even be celebrating having won it!

As one of three finalists in the category, they went head-to-head against Cornwall butchers Philip Warren and Stein’s Deli in Padstow.

Finalists were decided by 110,000

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

BEAUTIFUL ROOMS for Bodywork practitioners.

reader votes in 13 categories and two rounds of voting and the winners were due to be announced on January 25.

We at Reconnect love the store but have issues around the timing of the Food Readers Awards – come on, guys, spare a thought for small indie magazine deadlines!

Find out if they won on their website, www.realfoodexeter.co.uk.

FOR TALKING THERAPIES AND HOLISTIC HEALTH

www.thepracticerooms.co.uk 15 - 16 Castle Street, Exeter EX4 3PT

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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Steve Knightly: on a tour of nautical venues, including Widecombe Sailing Club!

What’s new in new media?

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Launch of moorland sail club

SINGER Steve Knightley, frontman for folk band Show of Hands, is currently on a nautical tour taking in a variety of venues from seaside halls and boats – and the very land-locked Café on the Green at Widecombe, which has formed the Widecombe Sailing Club just so he’ll play there too. Visit www.steveknightley.co.uk.

Pilgrimage follows coast

A WOMEN’S Pilgrimage along the Dorset Jurassic Coast is open to women of any faith or no faith.

It will be led by humanist counselor Fran Fleming and interfaith minister and celebrant Natasha Hood, from Monday April 18 to Thursday April 21.

Call Fran on 01297 445078.

Dance and drum weekend

SHUMBA Arts will “welcome in the Spring with embodied rhythm and celebration” at a weekend of dance and drum in Dartington on March 12 and 13. Find out more at www.shumba.org.uk, email shumbaarts@gmail.com or call 07955 304747.

Oaks sell for animal charity

PSYCHIC tarot reader Bell Bartlett has 18 young oaks in pots, grown from acorns collected in Dartington, which she is selling for £5 in aid of The Tree of Life for Animals, a charity in Rajasthan.

Find out more at www.tolfa.org.uk and contact Bell through www.conscious-tarot.co.uk.

E’VE worked hard to develop and improve Reconnect magazine over the past year – but we’ve also been beavering away behind the scenes to improve our online presence.

And, with a little help from our friends, it’s now all online for you to check out.

First, to our website… www.reconnectonline.co.uk The same address we always used, of course, but with a brand new website, thanks to our friends Robert and Natassia Doets at Doets Design (www.doetsdesign.com).

If you can’t get hold of a paper copy of the mag, you want to look up something on the move, or you want to share the magic of Reconnectland with friends and family farther afield, go to our website. You can read every new issue (and all our back issues too) there.

If you want information about advertising, that’s all on our website too – and when you DO advertise, your advertisement will also be in the online version of the mag AND on our new dedicated

advertisers page.

As well as reading the whole mag, page-bypage, you can also read selected articles, blogstyle, in our new article archive.

You can read a little about the team who put Reconnect together on the ‘About us’ page – and find out where you can pick up a paper copy of the mag.

The events diary has always been a popular and active part of the Reconnect website and now there’s a direct link to our new online events listing site… www.reconnecthub.co.uk You can also access this one directly, of course.

For Reconnect readers, it provides a comprehensive guide to the sort of events you tell us you want to see, from right across the Reconnect region.

BELOW: the homepage of Reconnect’s new website.

Just visit the site and scroll down to see what’s happening over the next seven days – or search specific types of events, or over specific dates. Visit the site to discover lots more great functions - and turn to page 9 in this very issue to check out the new GoingOut section.

You can also follow Reconnect on social media. Facebook (search for ‘Reconnect magazine’) is down to editor Martin Foster, so don’t expect too much (reckons he’s pretty busy producing a magazine), but we’ve got Matthew Rochford at So What Social Media (www. sowhatsocialmedia.com) looking after Twitter so that’s much slicker.

We are Kingfisher Print & Design.

Working in partnership with Reconnect to print this magazine in an environmentally responsible way

www.kingfisherprint.co.uk sales@kingfisherprint.co.uk 01803 867087

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local people local events local foodNaturally local health local environment news&views nourishing Spontaneous theatre in uncertain times

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HAT is happening in the world?

How does it affect us?

What do we need to do?

These are just some of the questions posed

by Playback Theatre South West in a series of performances designed to engage the community in conversation about current world crises.

There are two performance Playback Theatre - engaging the community in a companies, Tarte conversation about world crises.

Noire and Mirror Mirror, who are theatre and the actors give offering performances called Living artistic expression to memories in Uncertain Times – Thriving and experiences, allowing or Surviving. All Tarte Noire personal stories to be heard. The performances are women-only. performances also evoke feelings of connection with others and remove These companies have worked feelings of isolation. in Plymouth with the charity START (Students and Refugees All the performances are at Bogan Together) sharing performances House in Totnes: Tuesday, January and workshops with people from 26, by Tarte Noire (women only); Eritrea, Syria, Iran, Sudan Iraq Thursday, February 25, by Mirror and Afghanistan since 2008. The Mirror (men and women); Tuesday, city is a major dispersal area for March 8, by Tarte Noire (women refugees and asylum seekers in the only); Thursday, March 24, by South West and the huge refugee Mirror Mirror (men and women). migration has been one of the most Performances start at 8pm (doors prominent issues in these times. open 7.45pm) and admission is Playback Theatre is a form by £10/£8 donation. Visit www. of spontaneous improvised playbacktheatre-sw.co.uk.

Meditation & Mindfulness teachings for a happy heart from the new kadampa tradition

WAS cutting down on sugar one of your new year resolutions? Struggling? JANE HUTTON is here to help...

How to slay your sugar monster

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E’RE well into 2016 now. As the new year dawned, did you make the perennial promises to bust bad habits - go to bed earlier, drink less, exercise regularly, eat better? How’s it going? If your heartfelt resolutions have already drifted, don’t be too hard on yourself.

Research shows that it takes around 21 days to change a habit, but what about habits you find almost impossible to break? These are addictions rather than habits, often with substances like nicotine, alcohol, sugar and even stressful situations at their root. As this is a healthy food column, let me address arguably the biggest addiction – sugar!

Did you know that sugar lights up the same parts of the brain as cocaine? Weight gain is also a common side-effect of what in actual fact could just be a stressful job! While space is limited here to really go into how to separate yourself (and your brain) from the sugar monster, there are easy things you can do to try to break the habit of reaching for sugar because of sudden hunger, or comfort, or as a reaction to stress in 2016.

Food-wise, eat breakfast, and then regularly throughout the day; carry small packets of nuts

and seeds (not dried fruit) in your bag in case hunger strikes when you’re out and about; make sure every meal or snack isn’t just sugary carbs by adding protein and healthy fat (yogurt, avocado, eggs, meat, hummus, cheese, beans). Watch portion sizes – in general, people eat far too much.

For situational powder kegs, keep a food diary to see where your trigger points are, and address them – choose to take control.

Having a nonsugary snack handy while you break this habit is useful (protein-based ones are ideal) with the goal being not to use food at all.

Comfort food can be another red flag moment.

Do you feel like piling your plate with buttery mash after a hard day at work - and then wonder why your weight has crept up?

Alternatives that are just as tasty and satisfying, and help you lose weight, are out there. The recipe below is for a fabulous replacement for mash. And it can make brilliant bubble and squeak cakes to top with an egg or two. Gorgeous!

So, in 2016, make small changes to tackle your worst food choices or habits, and see your energy increase, your weight reduce, and your mood improve. Check out my new recipe hub for lots of foodie inspiration at www. functional-foodie.com.

Butterbean Colcannon

Mondays 7.30pm to 8.45pm

at Totnes Natural Health Centre, The Plains,TQ9 5DW With Kadampa teacher Matthew Rochford

Jan 25th to Feb 8th and Feb 22nd to Mar 21st £6 per class or £30 for a 6 class card

meditationinplymouth.org/totnes | @totneskadampa fb: /totnesmeditation | tel: 01752 224 137 Ashoka Kadampa Buddhist Centre | Charity No: 1082245

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

INGREDIENTS: 1x400g can butter beans, drained and rinsed; vegetable stock to cover the beans; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp fromais frais/crème fraiche/ natural yogurt; 2 good sprigs fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tbsp rapeseed oil; 100g onion, finely sliced; 100g green cabbage, shredded; 1 garlic clove, crushed; 25ml water; 1/4 teaspoon soy sauce METHOD: Put the beans in a saucepan and barely cover them with stock. Bring to a boil and simmer for 5-10 minutes until

the stock has been reduced to about 25ml (1fl oz). Mash the beans and mix in the mustard, fromage frais and parsley. Leave to one side in a bowl. Heat a tablespoon of rapeseed oil and soften the onion. Add the cabbage and garlic, then the water and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook, covered, for about 10 minutes until the cabbage is soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Tip the onion into the mashed beans and mix well. Serve sprinkled with grated cheese, parmesan or fresh herbs.

Naturally Nourishing is written by nutritionist and “confirmed foodie” Jane Hutton. Find out more about her eating plans, masterclasses and recipe blog at www.trinityholistics.co.uk.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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One of Alastair Inglis’s cleft wood rustic gates.

local people local events local food local health local environment ECO HOMES Community group hits £390k target EXETER Community Energy (ECOE) raised their target £390,000 in less than three weeks with a community share offer to fund solar panels on nine rooftops in the city and surrounding area.

Four systems have already been installed: Great Moor House, home of Devon Heritage Centre and the Met Office Archive; Exeter Library; Wonford Community and Learning Centre; and Shillingford Organics.

The next five systems will be installed during February and March: Ashwood Automotives; Newcourt Community Centre; Pinhoe Road Baptist Church; The Beehive and Honiton; and Glasshouse Lane Medical Centre in Topsham.

Find out more at www. ecoe.org.uk.

So what’s stopping us going renewable?

EVERYONE is agreed that an energy system based on renewable sources is the future. So how fast can we get there at a reasonable cost? And what are the barriers? Olly Frankland of Regen SW has some answers.

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HESE questions have come to the forefront of UK politics with the Paris climate change agreement and the focus on cost control from government.

The renewable energy sector contributed 25.3% of the UK electricity generation in the second quarter of 2015 - up from just 4% in 2008. The South West is seeing some of the most pronounced gains, due to our excellent wind and solar resources and the dynamic companies and entrepreneurs who have driven the sector.

The South West has also seen an explosion of community energy groups, developing their own local energy resources for the benefits of their community.

The key challenge for renewable energy in the UK is drastic reductions in support from the government – at the same time as they are propping up fossil fuel and nuclear generators.

The new subsidy system for small scale renewables (Feed-in Tariff or FIT) has a system of caps on deployment and less budget.

The other key barrier to development of new renewable energy projects in the South West is the lack of capacity on the grid, particularly for larger projects.

There are solutions to challenges posed by the limits on the grid including: flexible grid

connection agreements; energy storage alongside renewables to reduce peak output; and demand side response, where consumers adjust the amount of electricity they use at particular times.

Renewable energy is at a crossroads; having grown rapidly it is now having to adapt to continue that success without government support. The solution is a radical smart decentralised energy system – which the south west is well placed to lead. Regen SW is committed to making this a reality. l VISIT the Smart Energy Marketplace at Sandy Park, Exeter on March 17 to find out more. Go to www.regensw.co.uk/renewableenergy-marketplace and use the discount code ‘Reconnect’ to receive £5 off a delegate ticket.

Alastair back on gate duty GREEN woodworker and scything teacher Alastair Inglis has moved back to Devon after a period away in West Wales.

And that’s good news for local gardeners because his handmade gates, beautifully crafted in cleft wood, are available once again. He also makes natural wood pieces for interiors and the home.

He will also again be offering his scythe sales and advice service from mid-April, running through the Spring and Summer.

Call Alastair on 07796 805453, email al.inglis@yahoo. co.uk, or search for ‘Rural Skills & Scything South West’ on Facebook.

New recruit Roger is just the job

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HEN Roger Hawkins applied for a driver’s job at Refurnish, the community furniture reuse project, he explained that he had worked for the past 30 years as an antique restorer.

As a result, he’s now spending two days a week in their workshop repairing, restoring and upcycling solid wood vintage and antique furniture that Refurnish previously would not have been collected and would most likely have gone to landfill or for wood recycling.

Refurnish’s David Banks exaplined: “This temporary work will help Refurnish do a feasibility study looking at a Roger in the workshop at Refurnish. possible new training scheme aimed at socially excluded up a new scheme to offer accredited people across South Devon - which we furniture restoration training to people hope will attract Big Lottery funding. who are socially excluded.

“Roger was a real find. He’s got wide David explained: “Learning skills in experience in antique restoration and a real working environment can help French polishing – and he’ll also be these people build up their self-esteem developing ideas for using pallet wood and sense of worth and lead either to to create original furniture designs.” paid work or further studies.”

Some of Roger’s work will be sold He also reported that the Wrangaton at the Refurnish warehouse shop in warehouse shop has been much Wrangaton (just off the A38) but most busier recently – due in part to a new, of it will find its way to The Re-Store at sign-written delivery van and the Dartington or be sold online. welcomed installation of heating.

David says that Refurnish are also Visit www.refurnish.org.uk, call 01752 looking at the possibility of setting 927002.

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Blue is the colour... pictures of natural

paints courtesy of Earthborn . local people local events local food local health local environment

Revealing paint’s true colours

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WO things we all know about ‘natural’ decorating materials: they don’t smell like some evil cocktail of chemicals (because they’re not); and they cost more than their modern synthetic counterparts.

But when you start to scrape the surface, there’s a lot more to natural paints than meets the eye. And we promise not to overdo the painterly metaphors…

The word ‘traditional’ is frequently splashed around in the natural paint market and with good reason.

Their simpler recipes might suggest they are primitive in comparison to their chemically enhanced cousins, but knowledge of them has survived hundreds, if not thousands, of years so they have a proven track record.

In fact, before the development of commercial production over the past half a century or so, professional decorators used to make them up on site to their own recipes.

The vast majority of synthetic finishes are about just that – the finish. But many natural products also have inherent beneficial properties.

Limewash and silicate masonry paint, for example, are both highly alkaline and, therefore, biocidal (they destroy harmful organisms). They are also naturally fire-resistant and silicate paint is washable, so is ideal for use in public communal areas.

We know natural paints don’t bring nasty chemicals into the home, but they are also better for the health of buildings. Synthetic paints, which can trap moisture in the walls and don’t generally accommodate naturally occurring movement, can be particularly detrimental to older buildings with solid walls that were never designed to be ‘shrinkwrapped’ in plastic paints.

So if we accept that decorating isn’t just about slapping a quick coat of Morning Sunrise on your bedroom walls, we should consider breathability and vapour permeability in the structure and avoid introducing complex volatile chemicals into our living space.

But if you read the label of a paint can, it’s not always clear what you’re getting.

It often doesn’t even say on the tin what it should do… And there’s a very good reason for that, of course. Many synthetic paints contain a cocktail of detergents, fungicides, preservatives, carcinogenic solvents and sometimes toxic metals – none of which makes for a very positive sales message.

Most natural paint manufacturers

Energy project looking for investors A TEIGNBRIDGE community energy project is looking for investors for their forthcoming share offer to be launched in March Teign Energy Communities (TECs) grew out of interest within Transition Newton Abbot and was launched a little over a year ago.

In December, the group signed the first TECs contract for a solar PV installation at Teign School, Kingsteignton. Panels

to be installed in February half-term by a local installer.

“We want as many local people as possible to have a stake in this venture. On the launch of the share issue, priority will be given to all staff and parents at Teign School, as well as registered members of TECs.” Find out more at www. teignenergycommunities.co.uk/ invest.

proudly boast about how few ingredients they use.

No-one’s denying that, generally speaking, modern paints are durable, consistent, quickdrying and offer a huge range of colours compared with the natural alternatives.

But natural finishes can look and behave much like their synthetic counterparts and are also tensionfree, breathable and pleasant to use.

They are also often produced by much smaller companies: ethical

businesses that do what they do because they believe in it and want to make a positive difference.

We know from supporting smaller, independent and sustainable businesses in the food, drink and health sectors, that such qualities can cost. But this often isn’t true of the paint market, where many products are similarly priced, or even less expensive, than their synthetic counterparts.

And in any case, you might decide your home, family and community are worth it.

To find out more about natural paints, and other natural and sustainable building and decorating materials and techniques, visit www. mikewye.co.uk.

ReFURNISH Helping people and reducing waste

ReFURNISH your home with furniture and appliances at prices you can afford* *Discounts on proof of benefit entitlement

SHOPS AT WRANGATON, NEWTON ABBOT, TOTNES, BUCKFASTLEIGH, CREDITON & TAVISTOCK + Upcycling - The ReSTORE @ Dartington Shops

FREE COLLECTION of reusable furniture, appliances & other household goods.

www.refurnish.org.uk 01752 927002 Charity Reg No. 1129455

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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The John Langan Band -

at the Haven on Feb 26. local people local events local food local health local environment

Interior stylist puts on designer show

Heavyweights at Haven IF you haven’t yet made it along to Acoustic Haven in Totnes, you have two chances to check it out in February and March when they again bring in some heavyweight musical talent.

On February 26, The John Langan Band returns with their wild gypsy balkan folk set, plus support by the exquisite heart-melting singer songwriter Nessi Gomes (“Definitely arrive early not to miss her!” says Mr Haven, Doug King-Smith).

March 25 is the final Haven of the season with a blow-out evening featuring the full Fraser Anderson Band, plus Red Foot Crow, a Falmouth-based super group in the making (“They’re formed of exceptional musicians whose musical scope is staggering,” says Doug).

And if the music isn’t enough, you can also enjoy the delicious cafe and fine ale from New Lion Brewery and the Albert.

Doors open at St John’s Church in Totnes at 6.30pm and tickets are available from Sacks Wholefoods in The Narrows at the top of Totnes and online from www.wegottickets. com.

More information on www.acoustichaven.co.uk.

THE art of interior design is explored in Line Up, an exhibition of contemporary hand-made objects, curated by interior stylist and author Sania Pell.

First on show at London’s Flow gallery, the exhibition has now reached Devon and runs at Devon Guild of Craftsmen, in Bovey Tracey, until March 6.

Inspiration for the show came from the collections at Kettle’s Yard historic house and gallery in Cambridge, where curator Jim Ede integrated his own art and craft collections into the setting of his domestic home.

Line up - at Devon Guild of Craftsmen until March 6.

The 17 artists Sonia has selected are frequently featured in her editorial shoots for interior design magazines. The

pieces are mainly ‘lined up’ on shelves, coloured only black and white - but subtly varied and individual.

The men’s group that gives all men a voice THERE are a number of closed men’s groups across South Devon, where the men taking part usually have a connection with each other through previous ‘men’s work’.

Totnes Open Men’s Meetings, though, now celebrating its second birthday seeks to create a space accessible to any man, regardless of age, ethnicity, sexuality, background, and with or without previous experience of men’s work.

Co-founder Nemo Jones said:

“To create a ‘safe container’ for the sharing of personal stories and experiences, a clear structure was required to meet this ambitious goal of total inclusivity.

“The structure that emerged is a simple format of timed ‘rounds’ allowing each man an equal amount of time to be heard.

When a man speaks there is no interruption, talking over or commenting from the other men. What each man says is up to the individual. We’ve found that the subject matter spoken

about can be ‘deep’ despite the limitation of time.

“The structure of the meeting evolves based upon feedback received — the holding group discussing tweaks and alterations. All men involved in the holding do so on a voluntary basis and are involved because they find the project fulfilling.”

The cost is only donations to cover the cost of the venue: usually either Birdwood House or Bogan House in Totnes.

Email totnesomm@gmail.com.

www.steineracademyexeter.org.uk 01392757371 Places available for reception NOW admin@steineracademyexeter.org.uk Open mornings every first Friday of the month - visit the website for more details Steiner Academy Exeter, Thomas Hall, Cowley Bridge Road, Exeter EX4 5AD

www.steineracademyexeter.org.uk 01392 757371 admissions@steineracademyexeter.org.uk

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Lots to do, left - want to get involved?

Below, Zoe with daughter Lili. local people local events local food local health local environment NEWS&views

Jeff Sleeman Life Coaching, Personal Development and Wellbeing

“Simple and profound techniques to get you to where you want and need to go”

Creating a garden with much to give

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ETTLES and brambles are being cleared away to make place for a new community garden on the Dartington estate near Totnes.

The half-acre Foxhole Community Garden is being brought back to life as a social and therapeutic horticulture project, thanks to the campaigning efforts of local gardener, Zoe Jong. The dream is to create a safe accessible garden to host a lively timetable of events and activities, from parent and toddler groups to art and gardening workshops, with regular volunteer days where people can get involved in any aspect of the garden that interests them.

Zoe explained: “The intention is to work closely with existing local projects. This garden isn’t a food share scheme and it’s not an allotment site but the aim is that people will always leave here with something they need - whether that’s some harvest, a full tummy from lunch, time spent with other people and outdoors or a new skill.”

At present volunteer days run on Tuesday and Thursday, from 9.30am-3.30pm. In February the work mainly involves the heavier tasks of clearing debris, fencing, etc. As the year progresses there will be a wider range of activities and sessions suitable for a wider group of people, including parents and young children.

On Saturday, March 5, a team from Embercombe, experienced at co-ordinating community build days, will arrive at the garden to transform the site with raised beds

and seating. Everyone is welcome to join the fun - all ages, abilities and for however long they have to give.

On Saturday, March 19, the garden will host a ‘Singing the Garden to Life’ celebration where people can drop in 10am-3pm for hot soup, music and singing, including a workshop with award-winning local choir director and composer Helen Yeomans.

For up to date details on these events and volunteer days visit www. foxholecommunitygarden.org.uk or facebook.com/foxholegarden.

T: 01392 811 168 | M: 07977 272 174 contact@jeffsleeman.com | www.jeffsleeman.com

Empowering families across Devon & Cornwall since 1999

Handmade Garden Gates & Fences Natural rustic style Bespoke Designs in Green Cleft Wood Alastair Inglis 07796 805453 al.inglis@yahoo.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

21

a a a a a a a a v i t Fes local people local events local food local health local environment

Our unique guide to festivals and shows in the

Laugh Out Loud

February 3-12 Venues across Exeter Exeter comedy festival including Mark Thomas, Dave Gorman, Stewart Francis, Josie Long and lots more. www.lolexeter.com

BBC Radio 6 Music Festival

February 12-14 Venues across Bristol Top music acts, including Primal Scream, Tricky and Roni Size. www.bbc.co.uk/events

Peninsula Arts Contemporary Music Festival February 26-28 The House - Plymouth University performing arts centre PL4 8AA New technologies and approaches to composition and performance www.plymouth.ac.uk

The Independent Bath Literature Festival February 26 – March 6 Venues across Bath

Top writers discuss their work, including Sebastian Faulks, Tracy Chevalier, Pat Barker and more. www.bathfestivals.org.uk

Swanage Blues Festival

March 3-6 Venues across Swanage, Dorset BH19 1LB Forty acts in 70 gigs across 18 indoor venues. www.swanage-blues.org

Vibraphonic Festival

March 3-23 Venues across Exeter Wide range of musical genres at live performances across the city. www.vibraphonic.co.uk/

Teignmouth Classical Music Festival

March 4-6 Venues across Teignmouth Organised by the South Devon Singers and featuring top local amateur and professional musicians. www.communitychoir.co.uk

Dartmouth Comedy Festival

March 8-12 The Flavel, Dartmouth, TQ6 9ND With Gary Delaney, Rob Beckett, Patrick Monahan and more. www.theflavel.org.uk

Teignmouth Drama Festival

March 17-19 Shaftesbury Theatre, Dawlish, EX7 9PB Festival of one-act plays now in its 20th year. www.teignmouthdramafestival. org.uk

Bristol International Jazz and Blues Festival March 18-20 Colston Hall, Bristol BS1 5AR Over 50 concerts, including Maceo Parker, Melody Gardot and Courtney Pine . www.bristoljazzandbluesfest. com

Exeter Festival of South West Food and Drink

April 22-24 Exeter Castle and Northernhay Gardens Food and drink from across the area with demonstrations, information and inspiration. www. exeterfoodanddrinkfestival.co.uk

Budleigh Jazz Festival

April 22-24 Venues across Budleigh Impressive jazz and blues line-up, including Zoe Schwarz Blues Commotion, Julian Marc Stringle, Tina May and Scott Hamilton. www.budleighjazzfestival.org

Cheltenham Jazz Festival

Apr 27-May 2 Venues across Cheltenham Mix of international jazz stars, homegrown talent and up-and-coming new artists, including Christian Scott, Tunde Adjuah, Tim Berne’s Snakeoil, Becca Stevens Band and Julian Arguelles. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com

THE festival programme for 2016 is bigger than ever. Come with us on Reconnect’s annual tour of Summer fun. And look out for more information over the coming issues. See you in the sun (or possibly mud)...

The Gathering

April 29-May 1 Tapeley Park, Instow, EX39 4NT “Pretty much a non-stop, didjeoriented open mic and jam session,” say the organisers. www.anticearthworks.co.uk

Paignton Bike Festival

April 29-May 1 Paignton Sea Front Bikes, music (including, Lorraine Crosby Band, Jonny Warman and Hells Bells), bikes, bmx and bikes. www.bmad.co.uk/festival

Bristol Folk Festival

April 30-May 1 Bristol Folk House, BS1 5JG and St George’s, BS1 5RR Two of the best and most respected venues in Bristol with a line-up that includes 9Bach, Gigspanner, Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin. www.bristolfolkfestival.co.uk

Dart Music Festival

May 13-15 Venues across Dartmouth Mixed genre event with acts covering acoustic, rock/pop/ reggae/ska, big band, jazz, folk/ country, classical, blues/soul, sea shanties and choral. www.dartmusicfestival.co.uk

Crediton Folk Weekend

May 13-15 Crediton Rugby Club, EX17 1EP A favourite with fans of ‘real folk’. No details at time of going to press. www.creditonfolkweekend.co.uk

Plymouth Film Festival

May 13-15 Plymouth Arts Centre Founded in 2013 as a local event, this one’s grown quickly and now shows national and international films alongside the work of the best in the West. www.plymouthfilmfestival.co.uk

Devon County Show

May 19-21 Westpoint, Exeter, EX5 1DJ You all know what to expect. But will it rain? www.devoncountyshow.co.uk

Bath International Music Festival Beautiful Days August 19-21

22

May 20-30 Venues across Bath Starts with Party In The City on

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

the Friday. No line-up yet, but it will not disappoint. www.bathfestivals.org.uk

Vegfest

May 21-22 The Amphitheatre, Bristol BS1 5DB Stalls, demonstrations,caterers, workshops... and definitely no meat products. www.vegfest.co.uk

Camping Be Cider Seaside

May 27-29 Bredy Farm, Dorset DT6 4ND Bands are Shoot The Moon, Eat Your Greens and Burnout-13.

The booze is, presumably, mainly cider... www.fuelledbycider.com

No Man’s Land Festival

May 27-29 A hidden forest in the South West, Somerset Whole host of dance DJs and stages called Planet Grunt, The Asylum, Enchanted Woods, Bass Station and The Techno Dome. www.nomanslandfestival.co.uk

Bude and Stratton Folk Festival

May 27-30 Venues across Bude, Cornwall Programme to be announced.

It’ll be very, very folky... www.budefolkfest.com

Dot to Dot Festival

May 28 Venues across Bristol Celebrating 10 years in 2016, with a huge line-up, including Saint Raymond, Swim Deep and the notto-be-missed Fat White Family. www.dottodotfestival.co.uk

Bath Fringe Festival

May 27-June 12 Venues across Bath 17 days of music, comedy, drama and the indefinable. www.bathfringe.co.uk

Love Saves the Day

May 28-29 Eastville Park, Bristol BS5 6XA A “love-fuelled weekend” of bands and DJs. www.lovesavestheday.org

Sharpham Open Day

July 2-3 Sharpham House, Ashprington, Totnes TQ9 7UT Sharpham House and grounds open, with food and drink, kids’

fun and performa www.sharphamtr

Kingsbridge Fo Festival

June 3-5 The Town Square TQ7 1HZ The perfect blend and live music - v friendly. www.kingsbridgefo

Let’s Rock Bristo

June 3-5 Ashton Court, Bri Amazing line-up including Jason D O’Connor, Jilly So Blancmange, UB4 Cry and more. S Powderham Cast on July 2. www.letsrockbrist

Exeter Respect

June 11-12 Belmont Park, Ex A celebration of t of diversity in the food, dance and alcohol). www.exeter-respe

Eden Sessions

June 14-15 Eden Project, Corn Lionel Richie on s amazing venue. www.edensession

Shaldon Festiva

June 16-19 St Peter’s Church, 0DB High quality clas concerts in the vi www.shaldonfest

Gold Coast Oc

June 17-19 Croyde Line-up is TBA as so keep an eye o www.goldcoastoc

Teignmouth Fol

June 17-19 Venues across Tei Line-up is TBA as so keep an eye o www.teignmouth

3 Wishes Faery

June 17-19 Mount Edgecumb Cornwall PL10 1H Family-friendly fe faeries and fun (a www.faeryevents.

International Se Festival

June 17-19 Venues across Falm Some of the best around in pubs, and on stages ac www.falmouthsea

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

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Stonehenge Summer Solstice Festival June 18-20 Stonehenge, Wiltshire SP4 7DE Celebrate the Summer Solstice at Stonehenge (sunrise is at 4.50am, incidentally). www.stonehengecampsite.co.uk

Glastonbury Festival

June 22-26 Worthy Farm, Somerset BA4 4AZ You might have heard about this one. And it all sold out before they’d even got up to do the milking. www.glastonburyfestivals.co.uk

Folk on The Quay

June 25-26 The Quay, Poole BH15 1HD Four outdoor music stages, two ceilidh dances and over 20 teams of morris dancers. www.folkonthequay.co.uk

Frome Festival

July 1-10 Venues across Frome, Somerset BA11 1BE Music, drama, exhibitions and more at this cultural feast. www.fromefestival.co.uk

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mouth TR11 3QY t shanty singers bars and shops cross the town. ashanty.co.uk

July 2 Powderham Castle EX6 8JQ Amazing line-up of 80s names, including Jason Donovan, Hazel O.Connor, Jilly Somerville, Blancmange, UB40, Hue and Cry and more. www.letsrockexeter.com

Wonder Fields

July 8-10 Great Fulford, Dunsford EX6 7AJ Bands and DJs and all manner of festival fun www.wonderfields.co.uk

Budleigh Salterton Festival

July 8-16 Venues across Budleigh Salterton Big-name classical gigs (The Hearth Quartet, Erebus, Martin James Bartlett, London Bridge Trio and many more) in the evenings, plus free lunchtime concerts featuring local and upand-coming artists. www.budleighmusicfestival.co.uk

Way With Words

July 8-18 Dartington Hall, Totnes TQ9 6EE The internationally famous literary festival right on our doorstep. This year’s names include Terry Waits, Simon Armitage, Mary Portas, John Hegley, Deborah Moggach, George Monbiot, Penelope Lively, Ben Okri, Caroline Lucas... you get the idea. www.wayswithwords.co.uk

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Priddy Folk Festival

July 8-10 Priddy Village, Wells BA5 3BB 25th anniversary year so expect something a little special details TBA. www.priddyfolk.org

Larmer Tree Festival

July 13-17 Larmer Tree Gardens, Wiltshire/ Dorset border Quirky festival that never disappoints - usual mix of music, comedy, workshops, carnival and kids’s stuff. www.larmertreefestival.co.uk

Glas-Denbury Music Festival

July 15-16 Denbury near Newton Abbot TQ12 6DQ Rich mix of musical flavours from across the genres. www.glas-denbury.co.uk

Rock Oyster Festival

July 15-16 Dinham House, Nr Wadebridge PL27 6RH ‘The Big Summer Party’ with bands, DJs, hot tubs, yoga and all the trimmings. Details TBA. www.rockoysterfestival.co.uk

Chagstock

July 22-23 Chagford, Devon EX20 2PR Big news is that The Stranglers will headline, plus Ferocious Dog, Tankus The Henge and more. www.chagstock.info

the better for that. www.lapstock.org.uk

they never disappoint. www.beautifuldays.org

Kozfest

Purbeck Folk Festival

July 29-31 Near Uffculme EX15 2AW Festival hosted by psychedelic rock band Deviant Amps. www.deviantamps.com

Sidmouth Folk Week

July 29-August 5 Venues across Sidmouth Tens of thousands of visitors will attend more than 700 diverse events, including gigs, workshops and dance displays. www.sidmouthfolkweek.co.uk

Green Gathering

August 4-7 Piercefield Park, Chepstow, NP16 6BE All shapes of festival fun “powered by wind, sun and people”. www.greengathering.org.uk

Dartmoor Folk Festival

August 5-7 South Zeal, Dartmoor, EX20 2JL A small festival described as “so DIY... and so professional”. www.dartmoorfolkfestival.org.uk

Holifair Family Festival

August 12-14 Holifield Farm Project, Cornwall, TR12 6UJ For people with special needs, and their friends and families. www.holifieldfarmproject.co.uk

Love Summer Festival

Womad Festival

August 12-14 A ‘cartoon camp’ fancy dress theme and a secret location in South Devon - find your innerhippy... www.lovesummerfestival.com/ cartooncamp

Port Eliot Festival

Green Man

Lapstock

Beautiful Days

July 28-31 Cirencester, SN16 9LL Top world music acts - a favourite not-too-far-away festival for Reconnect readers. www.womad.co.uk July 28-31 St Germans, Cornwall, PL12 5BQ Wonderful venue with an impressive range of cultural delights (music, dance, poetry, film, food, etc, etc). www.porteliotfestival.com July 29/30 Lapford Mill, Nr Crediton, EX17 6PU Small village festival - and all

August 18-21 Brecon Beacons, Wales.

Winner of Best Festival at Live Music Awards, it’s too early for details but they always have an impressive line-up. www.greenman.net August 19-21 Escot Park, EX14 3AZ/EX11 1LU Another really big one for local festie fans. No names yet but

August 25-28 Purbeck Valley Farm, Nr Swanage Good line-up here - just announced are Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman, Eliza Carthy and Billy Rowan (The Undercover Hippy) - more to follow. www.purbeckvalleyfolkfestival. co.uk

Sea Change

Venues across Totnes August 26-27 New for 2016 and organised by award-winning Totnes record store Drift. British Sea Power head the line-up, along with Luke Abbott and Matthew & Me. www.seachangefestival.co.uk

End of the Road

September 2-4 Larmer Tree Gardens, Dorset Music, comedy, films, literature, workshops, natural health... but no details yet. The perfect season-closer. www.endoftheroadfestival.com

Exeter Open Studios

September 10-25 Studios across Devon A chance to see artists’ work where it was created when artists open their doors. www.devonartistnetwork.co.uk

Two Moors Festival

October 20-29 Venues across, Dartmoor and Exmoor Classical music gigs in venues across the two moors. www.thetwomoorsfestival.co.uk

Exeter Respect Festival

December 4 The Phoenix, Exeter Exeter’s Respect Festival present their first winter showcase of live world music. Line up includes The Barefoot Bandits, Lewis Esparon, Vivid Vague and Ruby May. www.exeter-respect.org l ANYTHING TO ADD? Tell us about your favourite festival - email us at editor@ reconnectonline.co.uk

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

23

wellbeing

email: food wellbeing@reconnectonline.co.uk local people local events local local health local environment

THE natural health and personal development PAGES Inside wellbeing...

Finding Active Hope

SailadayEco retreats at sea Free counselling session More retreats at Sharpham Abusive relationships

25 26 29 30

Growing the grown-ups

33

Celebration of Summer light Helping bereaved reconnect Mindfulness for young people Emotional Health with Leigh

34 35 37 39

And there’s lots more to read inside

Kate Philbin

Reading the map of experience Spreading

W

HEN we have strong experiences, different parts of our body relax, feel excited or tense up, creating a map of that experience that may last our whole life, explains Craniosacral therapist Nick Rampton.

“With unresolved issues, physical or emotional, part of that map can create localised impactions in parts of our body’s fascia,” says Nick.

“Our fascia has the ability to isolate many of these impactions, to some degree, reducing their detrimental effect on the rest of our system.

“The body can be hugely protective of these areas, and may not allow a therapist near unless it has leadership in a session, and has complete trust in the therapist’s gentleness, astuteness and ability to Nick Rampton with a client. be totally non-judgmental. sensitivity that they can both feel Once the issue is willing to be through external organs into inner touched upon, and met, it’s energy ones, and connect with some of the should start to change in line with client’s most sensitive memories, the client’s needs.” remnants of which can be felt subtly Nick is Upledger Institute trained. He in the physical body.” described the process of training to Craniosacral sessions can sometimes tune into the body’s rhythms: “We be experienced as deep catharsis were told to forget anything we knew or enlightenment, however the most about sensing energies, and to feel common experience is that of deep into the physical rhythms of the body. relaxation interspersed with gently We took turns to feel into another’s reliving old memories and releasing breathing, then another’s heart them. rhythm. Then we were instructed For more information contact Nick to feel for minute rhythms present on 07792 594634 or visit www. within another’s head. Craniosacral craniosacraltotnes.co.uk. therapists are taught to develop such

BEAUTIFUL ROOMS for Counselling & Psychotherapy.

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Therapeutic life on the ocean wave

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DVENTURE therapy is an increasingly popular approach to personal development. Now, experienced skipper and psychotherapist Richard Lannowe Hall has combined his two passions to create a company specialising in marine-based retreats.

SailadayEco offers three and fiveday retreats at sea, encompassing basic sailing tuition off the coast of Cornwall. No previous sailing experience is required and the retreats also include tailored exercises to enhance people’s connection with the environment, such as blind helming, zen sailing and plenty of time for meditation and reflection.

Richard has spent the last 10 years working to improve the wellbeing of people of all ages. In 2015, he was awarded the Queen’s Honour Award, British Empire Medal, for his services to Marine Adventure Therapy in the UK. He said: “A direct encounter with

natural elements is transformative, restorative and wellbeing-enhancing.

Providing our guests with a meaningful encounter with nature while at sea can help them to experience a powerful inner connection.”

The experience has proved to be particularly powerful for those seeking to achieve mindfulness, to improve their emotional relationships or to improve their self-confidence or body-confidence.

The retreats also offer the best of organic Cornish food and are open to individuals, families or small groups of up to four guests.

Richard is also able to offer certificated Continuous Professional Development (CPD) sessions for both practitioners and students looking to develop their own understanding of how this type of therapy can work for their own clients.

For more information, dates and cost, visit www.sailadayeco.com or email hall51@btinternet.com. All profits go to charity sailadayok.

Sarah wins free place on Genesis CONGRATULATIONS to Sarah Evans, who won the competition in our last issue to win a free place on InterBe’s Genesis Programme.

Sarah will be joining fellow participants as they embark on a two and a half day journey to seek to change their lives by changing their stories.

Simon Daly, who delivers the programme said: “The Genesis programme is designed to help people to start living a life they love. We look at the role that stories play in helping to shape our experience of life. By ‘stories’ we mean the dialogues that go on in people’s minds and the way they think and speak about themselves and the world around them.

“Through enquiry and discussion,

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we begin to unpick some of the disempowering stories that people have about themselves, which prevent them from achieving their full potential, and we consider how they could create more empowering alternatives. When people are prepared to embrace this in their lives, the results are transformational. As stories change, lives change. We call this process Narrative Transformation.”

InterBe works with some of the largest organisations in the UK, using Narrative Transformation to change cultures, transform conflict and improve lives.

The Genesis Programme takes place on April 15-17 and July 8-10. It costs £199. For more information visit: www.interbe.co/ courses or call 01392 346224.

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Start your journey to better hearing From diet to looking after your ears in damaging environments – common threats to your hearing in the home – how to defend your ears at work and play – causes of hearing loss – and more.

Discover how to tailor your lifestyle in the environment you live in to reduce the level of hearing impairment you might encounter later on in life.

Get your free Hearing Fitness Guide today!

Call us free on 0800 612 7994 Please quote FF RC 01 when calling or complete and return the FREEPOST form below.

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Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

25

WELLBEING local people local events local food local health local environment Free counselling session with Juliette

W

Try something new in 2016...

Enrol on a counselling course Courses in Exeter starting in Spring: Certificate in Counselling Our popular, part-time entry-level course is open to all

Advanced Diploma in Counselling This advanced course is accredited by the BACP

Diploma in Supervision This course offers an ideal opportunity for a range of professionals, whose role includes supervision

Diploma in Counselling Children & Adolescents Post-qualifying training for existing counsellors

Learn more at our Spring Taster Day For further information or to apply: 01392 219200 / enquiries@ironmill.co.uk

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01803 862565 Ola Chiropractic Centre, 5a Fore Street, Totnes, Devon TQ9 5DA

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ITH so many to choose from, how do you find the right counsellor and not end up wasting precious money, time and energy?

Counsellor Juliette Medder suggests people take advantage of her free introductory counselling session so they can be sure they will be able to work together effectively.

“Having a good working relationship is widely understood to be essential for effective therapy to occur, so this free first meeting is important,” she explains. “It gives you the chance to explore whether I am the right counsellor for you - someone with whom you feel safe and comfortable to work with.

This first session is also a time for you to give a brief personal history, or outline the nub of a problem, or voice your hopes from therapy.

Juliette Medder with a client Then, if you feel counselling with me could be beneficial, we can set unresolved, past conflicts.” up another session. And if not, there is Juliette works with a whole range no obligation to continue.” of issues, including: anxiety, stress, Juliette trained as a humanistic, depression; relationships ; low-self integrative counsellor. Her work is esteem; abuse (emotional, physical rooted in attentive, compassionate and sexual); unresolved childhood listening but incorporates elements of issues; eating disorders; loss and grief; Gestalt, CBT, NLP and on occasion, and body image. drawing and Sand Tray.

Sessions cost £40, with some concessions. For more information Juliette says: “We will explore the visit www.juliettemedder.co.uk or call present to get a sense of what is 07923 894499, or 01803 529892. happening for you consciously, with Sessions in Totnes, Torbay and the option of also working with more Newton Abbot. hidden issues to examine patterns and

Time to embrace your future self our own unique gifts WHAT is calling you to come into and yet we need being? That is the support and perhaps perfect question healing. to ask yourself at “When we judge the start of a new ourselves we lose year, according connection, so it is to coach and vital to find those women’s support who listen, share and group facilitator, encourage.”

Katheryn Elaine Katheryn’s book, Hope.

Waking Women – a “Consider what Call to Feminine seed within your Consciousness, will heart wishes be published in 2016. to grow,” said She wrote it as part Katheryn. “This of her own journey is a time to One of Katheryn’s paintings to grow and become put aside past aware of the innate limitations and to love and power of shift out of fear, her life and she describes it as “a fully embracing the future self that book to help women take their path desires to lead an inspired life of because they are tired of being fulfilment and courage.” tired”.

She explained why her business is Katheryn added: “These women called The Seed Coach: “There are are seeking not only meaning layers within our heart and each and purpose in life, but also that layer can unfold so we come closer something that wants to break free and closer to the core, where the so they too wake up.” seed of our life dream is resting.

Katheryn will be offering a regular “When we live only from habit Women’s Support Group and and duty, those layers tighten like Women’s Workshop in Totnes. bandages and we forget who we Contact her to reserve a place at really are. We lose faith. An inner www.theseedcoach.co.uk or call lack of flow creates an outer lack of 07971 416630. flow. We are all born to contribute

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The Nautilus Rooms

Courses & Workshops February 5-6 2016 Certificate in Sandplay, with John Daly AIST (First of four 3-day weekends)

February 13 2016 Massage for Couples, with Anna Karthauser

March 5 2016 Working with Trauma using Mindfulness as a Resource, with Sarah Clevely

March 12 2016 Seated Massage Workshop, with Anna Karthauser

April-December 2016 Foundation Course in the Principles of Psychosynthesis, with Marie Beresford and Sam Wenham (Ten Saturdays between April and December)

April 2016 Introduction to Sandplay Therapy, with Ruth Baker AIST

June 2016 Introduction to Sandplay Therapy, with Ruth Baker AIST

September 9-11 2016

Fabulously located in the centre of Totnes, yet tucked away in a quiet alley, with easy access to short and long term parking.

We have space for a few more therapists to join us. if you are looking for a wonderful venue for a group, meeting or CPD event, do come and check out our lovely group room.

Certificate in Creative Supervision 1, with John Daly AIST (First of two, 3-day weekends)

September 16-18 2016 Certificate in Therapeutic Art 1, with John Daly AIST

REGULAR GROUPS & EVENTS Wednesday evenings (7-8.30pm fortnightly) Waking Women - a group to support women to grow their inner-potential, with Katheryn Hope

Thursday afternoons Munay Ki Certificate Course - ancient Initiations to heal old wounds, with Lori King

FIND OUT MORE

Call now 07736 3344

54

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Emma Cunis

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For John Daly’s courses, email ruthbaker1@gmail.com For Anna Karthauser’s courses, email anna@karthauser.org For Sarah Clevely’s courses, email sclevely@gmail.com, or call 07779470746/ 01392 432952, visit www.sarahclevely.co.uk For Marie Beresford and Sam Wenham’s courses, call Marie on 01803 867328 or email Sam at livingspirit3@gmail.com For Ruth Baker’s courses, email ruthbaker1@gmail.com For Claire Mulholland, email claire@coactivecreators.com, www.facebook.com/coachclaire. co/7809197529 For Katheryn Hope call 01647 441235 For Lori King, email beatthatdrum.info@gmail.com, call 07896 569678, visit www.beatthatdrum.com AIST - Association of Integrative Sandplay Therapists

The Nautilus Rooms • 35a Fore Street • Totnes • TQ9 5HN www.nautilusrooms.uk info@nautilusrooms.uk Call Ruth on 07736 334454 or Peter on 07826 414404

27

WELLBEING local people local events local food local health local environment

Craniosacral Therapy Release through gentleness Nick Rampton Follaton, Totnes 01803 847638/07792 594634 www.craniosacraltotnes.co.uk

Upledger Institute Training

Domestic Abuse Awareness Training & Pattern Changing Course 15-session course Tuesday mornings February 2016 Phone text 07562 380 703 sueley222@gmail.com endabuseuk.org.uk

Counselling: past, present and future KEN Rabone, Director of Training at the Dartmoor Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy in Newton Abbot, tells Reconnect about his 20 years working as a therapeutic counsellor in the South West.

How has counselling changed over the last 20 years?

We’ve seen the rise and rise of the counselling profession to a position of significant influence within the workplace, NHS, schools, drug and alcohol agencies and a huge number of organisations working with the disadvantaged and vulnerable sections of our society. Governments around the world have recognised the importance of mental health and wellness and I fully expect its expansion and influence to continue.

Are there still jobs for counsellors?

The number of full-time employment opportunities for those in training has increased. The profession is still predominantly part-time in the South West but this suits many people: they work as accountants and therapists, or artists and therapists, or teachers and therapists - almost as many combinations as you can imagine. The changing world in which we live today has driven the demand for qualified counsellors and they are needed more than ever in our communities. I fully expect the expansion of demand and employment opportunities will increase, so it’s a very good time to enter the profession.

What makes a successful counsellor?

In my experience, success is born out of a passion and a vision for the work that truly resonates with your own sense of wellbeing in the world. The work is not without its challenges but it also brings many joys. The other important factor for success is an ability to care for yourself as well as you care for others - a wonderful benefit of becoming a Counsellor is the selflearning that arises from embarking

on such a journey of self-discovery.

What does the future hold?

Technology is changing our world at an astonishing pace and I think we are involved in a struggle to maintain the compassionately relational, person-to-person principles of the profession. Unfortunately, within the NHS people can now find themselves referred to a computer programme for depression and anxiety. This seems to be based almost entirely on the criteria of financial saving rather than personal effectiveness.

One really scary prospect for the future is that this trend could continue and instead of a live counsellor being the first stop for someone with mental health, career, relationship or other issues, we may well be asked to consult a computer - the personal ‘avatar’ counsellor - for feedback and advice. The personal avatar counsellor will be stocked full of good health information, and offer its ideas and helpful advice. It may even assess that the person has a problem beyond its scope and recommend the person see a real counsellor.

This kind of crystal ball gazing is disturbing. Advancing technology might threaten to make the counselling profession one dimensional and impersonal. It might even suggest that artificial counsellors will become crucial to the profession because there simply won’t be enough human counsellors to meet the growing demand. I believe the demand for relational person-toperson therapy will grow and we all have to play our part in the struggle for a person-centred practice in all the caring professions. These kinds of struggles are happening in all of our communities and workplaces all of the time. These relational, human principles lie at the heart of our work at the Dartmoor Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy, both in the counselling training and the counselling services we provide.

The Dartmoor Centre is a notfor-profit community interest company. To find out more about their work and courses visit www. safespaceforcounselling.com or call 07801 248421.

£41.85 Book a series of ads this size and it will cost you just £41.85 a month - including free editorial. Call Martin on 01803 868455.

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Sharpham House, which

will local this year host retreats. local people local events local food health local environment WELLBEING

INSIDER ART FORTHCOMING COURSES IN EXETER ART IN HEALTH: Practical Applications ART IN MENTAL HEALTH: A Foundation Course in Art Therapy SANDTRAY THERAPY WITH PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: All courses are suitable for practitioners and students of many disciplines

Sharpham planning more retreats

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ORE than 1500 people benefitted from mindfulness teachings at The Sharpham Trust last year so it will come as no surprise to hear that more mindfulness retreats and courses are planned for 2016.

Trust Director Julian Carnell said: “Our retreats at Sharpham have been hugely popular and the feedback has been terrific. Our retreatants say they love staying with us in this beautiful part of the world, which really helps them to develop a mindfulness practice, so we will be welcoming more people to Sharpham again this year.”

In 2016 the Trust will be hosting retreats across the estate – including in The Barn Retreat Centre, in Sharpham’s woodland campsite, and within Sharpham House itself.

Here is a round-up of some of the retreats. For the full programme, see the website, www. sharphamtrust.org/Calendar .

Creating Space - a creative retreat for women A new addition to the programme, this is a women-only retreat exploring mindfulness through creativity. This retreat - led by Karmini Gupta – runs February 4-7 and features creative exercises to teach different ways to respond to stress and anxiety and techniques to develop mindfulness through creativity. It is ideal for women who feel stuck creatively or who want to explore their natural creative flow in a supportive, female environment.

Bringing singing to mindfulness & mindfulness to singing This retreat runs February 25-28 and participants will be singing together in unison and in harmony, led by Emily Roblyn, a Devon-based vocal leader experienced in singing with mindfulness. She’ll be teaching a variety of songs and styles, from gospel and chants to pop songs

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and Taise (meditational singing). All are welcome on this retreat and no previous experience of mindfulness, singing or the ability to read music is necessary. The programme includes three 30-minute guided meditation sessions and opportunities to sing in the extraordinary acoustics of the spiral staircase at Sharpham House and in outdoor locations in the beautiful gardens (weather permitting).

Moments to Savour - conscious cooking and mindful eating In these new retreats (April 7-10 and July 7-10), participants will explore mindful awareness through the food they harvest, cook and eat while at Sharpham House. The retreats are partly in response to some fantastic feedback from retreatants responding to the vegetarian food grown and served at Sharpham House, and offer the chance for participants to connect with the land, the process of food preparation and themselves.

There will also be a season of themed retreats at The Barn Retreat Centre, including: Transition and Transformation, February 7-13; Discovering the Boundless Heart, February 21-27; Embodied Mindfulness, March 13-19. Days of Silent Meditation will be held at The Barn throughout the year, including one on Saturday March 26.

Visit www.sharphamtrust.org, call 01803 732542 or email bookings@sharphamtrust.org.

Clinical supervision, arts supervision and mentoring for artists and arts and health practitioners For information visit www.insiderart.org.uk or e-mail info@insiderart.org.uk

Weekend Retreat for Young People

Open to all adults aged 16-25 years £40

28 - 30 May 2016

www.gaiahouse.co.uk MEDITATION RETREATS IN THE BUDDHIST TRADITION

Gaia House, nr Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ12 6EW

Counsellor and Psychotherapist With optional use of Sand Tray and Drawing/Painting as Therapeutic Tools w w w. j u l i e t t e m e d d e r. c o . u k 01803 529 892 | 07923 894 499 | info@juliettemedder.co.uk

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WELLBEING Changing patterns to change your life

Barnfield Hill Therapy Rooms

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New therapy rooms for rent Light and airy rooms with own waiting room. Flexible hours and low rates for counsellors and therapists Central Exeter location Contact: Julie McNichol 01392 256711 4 Barnfield Hill, Exeter, EX1 1SR

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR AN EFFECTIVE MASSAGE TREATMENT? ARE YOU IN PAIN?

ELD under a tap that has poison rather than water flowing from it is how Sue Ley describes being in an abusive relationship.

She points out that, even when the tap is turned off (in other words, when an individual leaves the relationship), the residue of that poison remains.

“It can be hard to cleanse yourself of that poisonous residue,” said Sue. “It tells you that you are not good enough, you are to blame, it is all your fault. If you have experienced an abusive childhood then maybe you have never experienced life without the poison.

“The Pattern Changing Course I run is, in essence, a poison-washing process, based on extensive experience and knowledge. I supply the anti-poison soap and shampoo, although only you (the client) can choose to wash the poison off.”

Changing these patterns can have big implications, as Sue explained: “The statistics are pretty shocking.

Two women are killed every week and two men are killed every month as a result of domestic abuse.

“Abused children have triple the risk of developing lung cancer or heart disease; and a 20-year difference in life expectancy. One in five of all children in the UK are exposed to domestic abuse and 80% of exposed children go on to develop

Controlling and coercive behaviour in relationships is now illegal. psychological disorders as an adult.

“In the last 10 years, child abuse has risen by 25% and since 2013 there has been a 31% increase of domestic abuse-related crimes. This work is important and greatly needed.”

Controlling and coercive behaviour in relationships is now illegal and a criminal offence since the introduction of new legislation on December 29 last year.

For a limited period, Sue is offering free basic domestic abuse training to professionals to help them recognise domestic abuse within the framework of the new legislation.

For more information visit www. endabuseuk.org.uk or email Sue at sueley222@gmail.com.

Inspired by her own journey from illness

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approach was the most ER own journey from sickness to effective way to recover health is one of and now I want to I provide effective and enjoyable the things that inspires share this with others.” treatments to help people get therapist Daniella Daniella completed Saunders in her quest to out of pain, move freely and specialist training in help others. get on with their lives.

CFS/ME Recovery and Daniella suffered from now offers individual Expect a positive and enriching severe fibromyalgia coaching plus an for seven years experience, adapted to suit online programme, as and now uses part of the Chrysalis your needs, professionally and her experience to Effect Recovery compassionately given. support others in Programme. The My practice is in central Exeter. understanding how to programme is based combat the effect that on eight key areas, SARAH COLLIER MASSAGE THERAPY stress can have on which include digestive Daniella Saunders their life.

Call: 07946 836073 www.sarahcolliermassagetherapy.com heath, emotional support, adrenal and Daniella spent 25 years thyroid function, behaviour change experience working as a Registered and relationships.

Nurse before choosing to retrain in holistic health. She now uses a Sarah C ReC ad Jan 2016.indd 1 7/1/16 22:13:46 A one-day workshop provides combination of health coaching and practical guidance in recovering therapies to help people decrease from long-term stress or fatigue. symptoms and regain their health.

Workshops are being held at The Massage and Well Being Centre, “My main area of interest is supporting Exeter on Thursday, February 25, people who suffer from stress and Classes Targeted advice and Plymouth Natural Health & anxiety, and helping people recover Healing Centre on Friday, March Books from chronic fatigue syndrome, ME Eating plans 4. The cost is £70 (£60 if you book and fibromyalgia,” Daniella told Free resources Online courses three weeks in advance).

Reconnect.

Healthy recipe blog Daniella also runs a health and “Often chronic stress and fatigue 1-2-1, online, phone/Skype wellbeing group in Plymouth on the can have a wide array of debilitating second and fourth Thursday of each symptoms, including pain, headaches, ME, gut disorders, mental health nutrition, month, where people can learn about digestive issues, depression, anxiety, cancer recovery & weight management. holistic health in an informal and nausea, dizziness, allergies, and friendly environment and discover how insomnia. It is common for these Jane Hutton email: enquiries@trinityholistics.co.uk The Functional Foodie issues to impact on work, finances, to use therapies. For more information visit www.synergyholistichealth.co.uk or more info: www.trinityholistics.co.uk T: 07841 344934 and to affect relationships with family and friends. I found that a holistic call 01872 278123.

Real food, Real life,

Real health

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A space for calm and reflection at The Nautilus Rooms.

WELLBEING

Centre expands and consolidates

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HE Nautilus Rooms in Totnes continues to expand and consolidate its practitioner and client base.

Massage therapists Anna Karthauser and Julia Rowntree offer a range of holistic massage and bodywork and are always interested in special assignments such as hen parties and baby showers for which they get great reviews. Anna is also running some workshops, including one for couples on February 13 (the perfect Valentine’s gift?)

Macrobiotic health and life counsellor Emma Cunis ran a very successful women’s health evening - keep an eye out for more, including one aimed at counsellors and psychotherapists about links between nutrition and mental health.

And Katheryn Hope, a coach who specialises in working with women, runs discovery days and a regular Waking Women group to support women growing their inner-potential.

Lori King is running a Munay Ki certificate course, The Nine Great Rites held sacred by the Q’ero, Shaman of Peru - ancient Initiations that transmit the data needed to heal old wounds and “create an energy pattern to serve the Earth and all her beings”.

Catherine Hale is a sexual shamanic empowerment coach, who works with people to support them into developing a healthy relationship with their sexuality, and Karar Hill, working as a psychotherapist with the team, also offers cranio sacral therapy.

In March, Nautilus Rooms welcomes psychotherapist Sarah Clevely, well known in the area as a teacher of mindfulness and a somatic experiencing practitioner. Her workshop, An Introduction to Trauma using Mindfulness as a Resource, is likely to be highly popular.

Lisa Garvey Williams and Caroline Nottage will join Nautilus Rooms this month.

Nautilus Rooms co-founder Ruth Baker says: “There is a positive atmosphere in the team as our client base grows.

We are able to offer a rich and varied menu of resources, workshops, trainings and events as well as regular treatments to assist in daily life.”

Ruth added that the centre’s group room is available for hire and would be ideal for singing or music practice.

Visit www.nautilusrooms.uk and search for Nautilus Rooms Totnes on Facebook. Call Ruth Baker on 07736 334454 or Peter Baker on 07826 414404.

Mark Edlund Plater

Member of the British Acupuncture Council

Acupuncture Integrated Method

Acupuncture integrated method

Practice for 19 years in Totnes Fees are based on income or means

01803 862803 07506 179808

mark.edlundplater@gmail.com

‘Chinese equivalent of physiotherapy’

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UI NA is Chinese the system in a way medical massage that many western style used to treat approaches have not.” long-standing physical Alongside Tui Na, Rachel problems such as back uses Bi-aura, a physical pain, and problems therapy that works on affecting the neck, the bio-energy field, or shoulders, arms and aura, and balances the hands, including frozen chakras. She explained: shoulder, carpal tunnel, “Like Tui Na, Bi-aura tennis elbow and general has its roots in Chinese tension caused by stress. culture. The movements used are similar to Tai Rachel Carey, who has Chi, or Chi Gung, and been practising massage it sometimes feels very for nearly 20 years, similar to carrying out finds this approach to Rachel Carey Tui na, except that I am be particularly popular working away from the body. with clients.

“In fact, with Bi-aura, even though I’m She said: “Tui Na is used in China not touching the body it can feel as alongside acupuncture and herbal though I am contacting the physical medicine, so it could be seen as the body on a deeper level than when Chinese equivalent of physiotherapy. using hands or elbows to work into the It works by using deep, rhythmic body’s tissues.” massage techniques along the meridians, acupressure and light Rachel is available for appointments manipulation of the joints. at locations in central Exeter, including Exeter Natural Health Centre in “It is great for increasing energy flow, Queens Walk, and Revolution in Fore removing blocks and freeing up the Street. physical body. Clients often come for Tui Na having tried other forms For more information call Rachel on of treatment for a number of years 01392 758439 or text 07804 575787 and find this approach reaches into for appointments.

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est. 1999

“I have attended over 4,000 funerals in my career and I have never seen such a beautiful, heart-felt funeral.”

Chapel Attendant

Funeral Home Riverstone, 18 Dart Mills, Buckfastleigh TQ11 0NF High Street Shop 7 High Street, Totnes TQ9 5NN

01803 840779 / 01364 643522 www.heartandsoulfunerals.co.uk Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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WELLBEING Allowing nature to calm the mind

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TOUCH NATURE,TOUCH SOUL A UNIQUE RETREAT AT SEA Experience a therapeutic restorative immersion in nature.

3 or 5-day sessions Our experienced skipper/guide supports you to use your body and mind to set your course. www.sailadayeco.com• hall51@btinternet.com

FAMILY HOMEOPATH PRACTISING IN EXETER FOR 25 YEARS “The beauty of homeopathy lies in its simplicity, the power of homeopathy lies in its depth.”

Mo Morrish at Exeter Natural Health Centre

01392 214074 • mo@thehomoeopathicpractice.co.uk

Visit www.thehomoeopathicpractice.co.uk 32 32

become quieter VERY time we and we become consciously meditative. In the connect with middle of the night, nature we are our minds can brought back to a become still and we state of balance and experience silence harmony. It may the conscious mind only be for a fleeting is switched off. moment - the sight of a rainbow, the heat This is the realm of the sun on you of intuition and face on a Winter’s visualisation, allowing day, the hoot of an the connection owl… to ourselves and the world around This is the reason, us. It is the same according to Annie Annie Wilson frequency as the Wilson of Nature’s magnetic frequency Way Counselling, of earth - 7.83HZ.” why nature and wilderness therapy has become such a popular Annie hosts Nature and Wilderness therapeutic approach.

Group Therapy Sessions, held “Nature calms the mind and allows outside in the beautiful Devon us access to the unconscious,” said countryside, that follow the cycle Annie. “Our brain wave state is of nature, moving through the constantly changing depending on seasons. They use nature’s how alert and how active our minds ingredients - sticks, leaves, flowers, are. mud, stones, shells and feathers - to make art forms and express For example, in the early afternoon innermost feelings, “bringing the we maybe be at our most alert in inside out, making the unconscious doing, thinking, striving mode. This conscious”. is where we experience stress and anxiety and when our inner voice is For more information call 07760 the loudest.

439760, email: anniwils@ Then in the evening we may start talktalk.net, or visit www. to experience relaxation, our minds natureswaycounselling.co.uk.

Increasing energy flow with patches

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AIN-RELIEF, woundhealing, weight management, sleep disorders, fitness and detoxing… just some of the applications for the therapeutic patches developed by Volker Schumacher, a German natural health practitioner, psychotherapist and business coach.

The patches balance and increase energy flow without the need for needles, medicines, drugs or chemicals. According to Volker they treat a whole Volker and Iris Schumacher. range of symptoms in a natural way without any body’s cells. This balances and side-effects. They also work increases energy flow naturally and on animals. the effect can be amazing. I have The plaster-like patches contain used the patches to treat a whole organic materials, including range of different conditions.” oxygen, glucose, amino acids and Volker is inviting Reconnect readers water. He says they are clinicallyto come to an information event proven and have been shown to (every first and third Friday, 8pm, reduce pain for around 90% of at Arcturus Clinic, 47 Fore St, users in just a few minutes.

Totnes) or invite him to visit them at Volker said: “I was one of the home to experience the patches for earliest practitioners of kinesiology themselves. For more information in Germany. For many years, I visit www.volker-schumacher.com have focused on energetic healing or call 07821 115528. and psychosomatic insights. I His wife, Iris, offers Soul-Journeys encourage my clients to focus their - deep contact to the inner-child, mind on being aware of wholeness particularly in the case of cancer and health (The Law of Attraction). diagnosis ,and Psychosomatic “I developed these patches to Therapy for German-speaking stimulate the body’s acupuncture people. Call 07821 115528 or visit points which, in turn, stimulate the www.die-praxis-unter-der-linde.de.

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WELLBEING Winning the circular argument ARE we alone in the universe?

Rupert Callender of Green Funerals, right, reckons not…

I

Grown-ups with more growing to do

I

to develop the insight and tools they need to embrace the challenges that this deep relationship brings.

“Grow the Grown Ups creates a safe space for families to be together, with others, living simply, away from the usual demands and distractions of daily life” said Fiona.

“Parents are given the space to reflect on their values, and deepen their connections with their children.

“As the parents explore their own growth, children explore the land: playing in the woods, digging in the garden or feeding the sheep, overseen by compassionate carers.“ Nina Farr, who took part in the family camp in 2014, explained how her experience at Embercombe contributed to the relationship between her and her son: “Being led by the hand by my two year-old and shown Embercombe through his eyes and at his pace is a memory I will treasure forever.

“To be absolutely present with him and see him explore the literal world at his feet is something I had never experienced before. Today, we make time to do this often, and I will forever be grateful for this skill learned at camp. With the new perspective that being truly present with my children gave me, we all experienced more of those moments of wonder that bind us together as a family.”

Grow the Grown Ups Summer Camp runs from May 29 to June 3.

To book your place or find out more visit www.embercombe.org/growthe-grown-ups.

Equine facilitated learning and connecting with horses...

Workshops, adventure days and one-to-one sessions for both adults and young people from £45 per person I L I TAT E D LE

AC

A R N I NG ·

QUI NE · E F

T won’t just be radishes that are grown at Embercombe this Summer. At the end of May, the land prepares to welcome families into Mac Macartney’s ‘garden to grow people’.

Embercombe’s Grow the GrownUps Summer Camp is a selfdevelopment programme for adults with young children. The programme aligns with the Children’s Fire concept, which is at the heart of everything Embercombe teaches.

The concept, which is part of the Earth teachings of the elders of ancient America, states that no law, no action of any kind, shall be taken that will harm the children seven generations hence. A Native American proverb says: “Treat the earth well. It was not given to you by your parents, it was loaned to you by your children. We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.”

Embercombe’s Fiona Barnes explained: “Grow the Grown Ups is an acknowledgement and celebration of each parent’s contribution to the future of our planet, to the world of our longing, and a recognition of how a small re-alignment now may have a far-reaching impact on future generations.”

The programme recognises that, as each child grows, so can the parents. Parenthood is an opportunity for adults to continue their own journey of development; to grow in consciousness and depth.

The path of a mother or father is sometimes a challenging one and the course offers parents the space

HAVE always had an interest in unusual belief systems and the past two summers have seen a resurgence of one that fascinated me in the 90s - crop circles.

A nuisance to hard working, beleaguered farmers, a confirmation of alien presence to others, a complex sociological game to academics, genuine art to some, crop circles have grown and withered and grown again echoing ancient fertility rituals practiced by our ancestors.

For me, circles of any kind call to mind ritual, and the preparations involved.

People all over the world know the power of forming a circle, from the mysterious creators of Stonehenge to the quiet sincere bravery of the Quakers. Even our galaxy spins like a cartwheel.

When we stand in a circle facing each other, we are both exposed and supported at the same time. The structural and social integrity is clear: the circle must remain unbroken, or we become a disintegrating, straggly line, separate, alone,

drifting away from each other. The ceremonies we perform in honour of our dead are like crop circles. We face each other emotionally and physically. We are supported by the stalk of our fellow human beings, there is no trick involved, no hierarchy, the walls that hold us up are each other, there is just a centre we all agree on – love.

And if we are among the lucky few, we track it’s circumference like satellites from birth till death. I like to hope that our dying lets us break through this ring and we burn up into the middle like a shooting star.

A return to the source.

A fanciful spin to put upon a valuable loss of income to the custodians of our countryside, an indulgent interpretation of an act of vandalism?

Perhaps. But it is also a powerful reminder that magick is simple and hidden in plain sight; that the things which we constantly fear are breaking down, for instance, the very fabric of our society, can be counteracted by standing together, facing each other, encircling and protecting our centres, our hearts.

Of course we are not alone in the universe. We have each other. www.thegreenfuneralcompany.co.uk.

Sue Blagburn BHSAI

07831 865259 sue@adventureswithhorses.co.uk

www.adventureswithhorses.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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WELLBEING

Interacting with the environment at a solar celebration.

PSYCHOTHERAPY & COUNSELLING We provide therapy and counselling for individuals, couples and families

Our team of practitioners are: • Highly skilled and experienced

• Experienced in working with mental health and trauma; and

• UKCP, BACP and HPC registered

• Abide by a strict code of ethics

Waterloo Wellbeing Centre, Plymouth PL1 5RN Call 01752 560002 Visit www.psychotherapyplymouth.co.uk

Health & wellbeing

I

N these dark days of Winter, the Summer Solstice can seem a long way off. But, actually, the year has already turned and Healing Hearts and Landscapes are inviting people to turn their hearts and minds to the long days of Summer and to plan how they will “engage deeply with self, community and Earth to celebrate.”

Environmental arts and Veriditas Labyrinth facilitators Zoe Hudson and Sue-Claire Morris are hosting a solar celebration from June 17-24 at the Anilio Centre, which is part of the Kalikalos Holistic Network on mainland Greece.

Describing the event as “nourishment for mind, body and soul”, Zoe explained: “We will be working creatively and engaging with the trees, mountains and ocean in the beautiful landscape of the Pelion in Greece.”

The solar celebration involves interacting with the environment and responding through movement, poetry, storytelling and environmental art, including co-creating a labyrinth with natural materials.

A celebration of Summer light

Working with the emotional and physical

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EOPLE facing emotional challenges often suffer physical ailments and illnesses that can be linked to unresolved emotions and inner-conflict, says Bethan Parfitt.

Bethan, who works under the name Divine Blossom, is a qualified reflexologist, Reiki practitioner and massage therapist who focuses on identifying imbalances within the body.

“People who visit me for relaxation and relief from the symptoms of illness are often harbouring emotions that need releasing,” she said. “By changing the unhelpful behaviour or situations that cause people stress or discomfort, it is possible to increase their level of wellness.”

Bethan combines counselling with hands-on therapies to provide relief from both physical and emotional symptoms.

“The heart of the service I offer is supporting individuals to identify

Seek peace of mind?

Contact Peter Crowe Counselling & psychotherapy 01392 966845 www.petercrowe.co.uk 34

Sue-Claire said: “It is about celebrating the light at this magical time in the wheel of the year and expressing our inner-flame. We will work individually, in partnerships and as a group. On the morning of June 21, we will be celebrating the Solstice with ritual of drumming and dance and having a fire circle.”

The Kalikalos Holistic Network offers a summer programme of holistic workshops, retreats, and alternative holidays, with a community-building experience modelled on Findhorn in Northern Scotland.

The Solar Celebration costs 480 Euros, inclusive of accommodation and healthy vegetarian meals. Visit: www.healingheartsandlandscapes. co.uk or call Zoe on 07826 440931 or Sue-Claire 07913 891804. To book visit: www.kalikalos.com.

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their imbalances and empowering them to achieve a sense of wellbeing through increased inner-strength and confidence,” she said.

“I use an integrative counselling approach to support people emotionally. We work towards identifying distressing emotions, enabling clients to express difficult feelings and thoughts, and develop new coping strategies. I also help people to experience relaxation and the physical release of tension, which contributes towards a greater sense of wellbeing.”

It is down to the individual to choose the main emphasis for their treatment.

If the main aim is relaxation, they can choose reflexology or massage. If the client desires more emotional support, they can opt for a counselling session, or a combination of both counselling and complementary therapies.

Visit www.divineblossom.co.uk or call 07541 748140.

Genesis Change your stories, change your life

“It was truly mind-blowing.” “Inspired and inspiring”

Held back in life?

Book onto this two and a half day transformational course and learn how to change your life by changing your beliefs.

April 15-17 July 8-10 £199 – bursaries available

www.interbe.co/courses 01392 346224

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Technology can help us hear perfectly - even in tricky outdoor situations.

Special events for the bereaved THE latest in an occasional series called Postcards From The Edge, sees SIMON SMITH of Heart and Soul Funerals with details of two very special events to help the bereaved reconnect…

time to chat afterwards over tea and biscuits.

The other is a Social Reading Group with Sarah Hopkins and runs on Tuesdays 2-4pm.

For book-lovers and non-readers alike, you are invited to a small, friendly, weekly group to enjoy great stories and poems. A range of classic and modern literature will be read aloud and THE bereaved are the biggest everyone has their own copy to community on earth, but many follow as they wish. people still feel very alone in their We listen together, pausing to grief and it can be difficult to find share spontaneous personal ways to get back into the stream responses and find out what the of life and to meet people. writing means to When you lose a us. This group is partner, you also offered to help lose part of your relieve the low identity and going feelings of loss out with friends by encouraging as a three isn’t new connections easy. So Heart with stimulating and Soul Funerals readings and likeis offering two minded people. opportunities to Friends and family help anyone who members welcome feels bereaved too. to establish new Simon Smith connections.

Both will take place at Heart & A Bereavement Soul Funerals, in our beautiful Choir, which friend of Reconnect riverside barn at Riverstone, 18 Peter Scott runs every Monday, Dart Mills, Buckfastleigh TQ11 2-3pm, is a chance to sing 0NF. Donations welcome. Visit simple songs together – it’s easy www.heartandsoulfunerals.co.uk. to join in, have fun and there’s

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Hearing better than nature intended?

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EW hearing aid technology can take the stress and misery out of hearing loss – but can it really make us hear better than someone with normal hearing? “ The reality is that hearing aids strive to win back the happy situation you were in a few years ago when you were less likely to mishear sound,” says John Morey of bloom, the hearing specialists.

“As time marches on, you may still hear people talking to you and understand most of what is being said, but you can begin to miss some words – sometimes with amusing results, some more serious.

“Imagine if you’re in a restaurant, you’re a vegetarian, you’re offered

a ‘piece of steak’ and you thought they said ‘pasta bake’! Not disastrous - but not funny if you still have to pay for it!

“In fact, technology today copes with noisy restaurants so this is unlikely to happen – and it’s not inconceivable that with the right hearing aids you CAN hear better than someone with so-called normal hearing.”

The best way to find out is with a free trial, as offered by bloom hearing for the new Unique.

“Early reports from trials so far suggest it lives up to its name,” says John.

To arrange a trial locally, call 0800 612 7994. And please mention Reconnect when you do.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

35

Exeter Natural Health Centre

practitioners giving free massage tasters local people local events food local health local environment WELLBEING at a Gandy Streetlocal Christmas event.

CFS/ME Recovery Programme Individual Health Coaching Workshops - Stress & Fatigue Health & Well Being Group Online Health Store

Daniella Saunders Tel: 01872 278123 www.synergyholistichealth.co.uk

Time to reinvigorate your passion!

IT’S almost St Valentine’s Day and Spring is coming soon, so make it a time for reinvigorating passion! ALI MORRISH of Exeter Natural Health Centre has more advice for newly-qualified therapists...

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HE cold Winter days at the start of the year are enough to make anyone a little sluggish and blue, but now’s the time to start cooking up plans to get the energy back into the work you love.

We all go through peaks and troughs as practitioners and that’s why being a part of a team that can help and support you is so useful in terms of developing your business.

Here at ENHC one of the main ways we promote what we do is to be visible and useful in our community. No one will be queuing up on Exeter High Street to see you if they don’t know who you are or where you are! So as a centre, we do our best to keep our name on the street and to encourage new footfall.

Just before Christmas, ENHC took part in the Gandy Street Christmas event, providing free massage tasters down on the street - literally selling our wares! We will also be giving a free sample of what we do here at ENHC at a special evening laid on for Gandy Street local business traders in March. We have partnered up with Exeter Phoenix for several years now, and once again we were delighted to sponsor the programme for the wonderful Quirk Theatre at Christmas.

Our Wellbeing at Work programme takes us into our broader community and it’s great to be able to take bodywork and stress management into different workplaces, including Steiner School, HM Prison, Kier Highways, Network Rail and even HMRC. Our local development officer for Healthshield, with whom we have a longstanding working relationship, said recently, “I love working with your team - they are professional, friendly and I couldn’t ask for more. I am NEVER disappointed” We do all this and more to make ourselves visible and create opportunities for therapist to join in and make themselves more visible and, of course, to get more work. A therapist who recently joined our Start Up Programme sent me a lovely email following the Gandy Street event: “What a fabulous evening. I am so utterly blessed to have found you all.

Thank you so much Ali for a great opportunity to give taster sessions. It’s certainly the way forward. Thank you for your support and kindness”.

Being a part of a busy well established multi-disciplinary clinic means practitioners don’t have to work in isolation. They and their clients have a professional and welcoming environment to work from and the benefit of a big ‘family’ in which to grow and nurture their business - and, most importantly, themselves.

For more details on our Start Up Programme or for any information about joining our team, hiring rooms, treatments, classes and training courses, please call Ali Morrish on 01392 422555, visit www.enhc.org, email info@enhc.org

Mo celebrates his complementary roles IT’S always particularly rewarding when one strand of your working life compliments another and Mo Morrish, of the Exeter Natural Health Centre, says that working as a homeopath for 25 years has been an excellent preparation for his work as a celebrant.

He explained: “Both roles require a deep listening, to the patient or to the family. Both depend upon seeing a pattern in complexity, to get a sense of the underlying cause and so the best medicine - or a sense

36 36

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of what needs to happen for the family, and so the most suitable ceremonial structure. And both aspects of my work benefit hugely from clarity of communication, attention to detail, and kindness.

“Each aspect complements the other and allows me to deepen, both as a practitioner and a person. What a fortunate fella!”

To find out more about either of Mo’s roles, email him at mo@ authenticceremonies.co.uk, or mo@ thehomoeopathicpractice.co.uk.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Liz Turner of Trees for Health has set up a new venture, Into Yoga and Nature.

local people local events local food local health local environment WELLBEING

T

HE woman behind Trees for Health, the organisation that aims to reconnect people with woodland, is setting up a new venture, Into Yoga and Nature, to run yoga classes and nature retreats.

Retreats will draw on some of Trees for Health’s work, including activities such as wild food, outdoor cooking and studying trees. These activities will have a meditative approach, says Liz, and will follow a Hatha yoga practice with Traditional Tantra and Vinyasa.

“Tantra is a living body of knowledge that sees everything in the universe as interrelated,” says Liz. “The yoga includes observation of the body’s interaction with Earth and cosmic energy.”

Classes will run through February on Thursdays (except half term February 18) and March (except 31st), from 11.30am-1pm at Chapel House Studios in Totnes. There is also a half-day Early Spring Retreat on March 5, 10am-1pm at Harbour House, Kingsbridge.

Liz’s yoga plans take root See the website www. intoyogaandnature.co.uk for full details or contact: liz@ intoyogaandnature.co.uk or 07765 631877. Trees for Health has volunteer days with the Land Projects Network every 3-4 weeks on a Wednesday. Check the website for dates www.treesforhealth.org or email liz@treesforhealth.org.

Creating the stories you need to tell

S

ANDPLAY has transformed counsellor Ruth Baker’s work – and made her a big favourite with local charity shops!

“Sandplay can cut through old thought patterns and present issues which have not previously been considered – and that can mean huge shifts in the clients’ process,” says Ruth, who works at The Nautilus Rooms, the new therapy centre she opened last year with husband Peter.

The practice of sandplay is as A sandplay training course at The Nautilus simple as it is effective. Small Rooms. good collection. One charity shop told models of objects and characters, me they looked out for me and kept known as miniatures or symbols, are items for me; another told me I bought placed in a tray of sand and a story items which no-one else would think is created. Sometimes the meaning of buying! From personal experience is clear, sometimes it may become I know just how important it is to be apparent at a later time - perhaps able to find the right symbol when appearing in a dream or simply you are immersed in the process of coming to the conscious mind. creating a tray.”

“I use it with individuals of all ages, The Nautilus Rooms is hosting couples and in supervision,” says Ruth, a number of training courses in who now also runs and hosts sandplay sandplay therapy in conjunction training courses for other therapists. with The Association of Integrative “It’s based on Carl Jung’s concept Sandplay Therapists. These that the psyche has an autonomous are suitable for a range of disposition to heal itself. It helps practitioners, including psychologists, to facilitate the healing process by psychotherapists, counsellors, youth helping to create new neural pathways workers, social workers, teachers, in the brain, allowing new ways of teaching assistants, coaches, play thinking, feeling and behaving.” therapists, etc.

Ruth’s vast collection of symbols The courses are experiential and includes toys and figures that interactive, with a maximum of represent aspects of daily life and eight per course, and consist of: archetypal forms.

Introduction to Sandplay Therapy; “I have spent the last couple of years Certificate in Sandplay Therapy; and a Diploma in Sandplay Therapy. building a large collection of symbols,” Emphasis is placed on the work of she says. “My own sandplay training Jung, Neumann and the archetypal showed the importance of having and transpersonal perspectives. a large symbol collection to work with - and especially in training. My If you are interested in the professional collection is the result of spending courses, or sandplay therapy for your hours searching in charity shops, own personal development, call Ruth combined with purchasing more Baker on 07736 334454 or email specialist items I see as essential for a ruthbaker1@gmail.com.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Experienced psychotherapist, counsellor and supervisor

sensitivity, kindness, and calm, combined with her “ Hélène’s non-judgemental insight have enabled me to make immensely significant and positive personal changes. ” Hélène Demetriades MBACP Senior Accredited Dartington, Totnes info@helenedemetriades.co.uk 01803 868655 www.helenedemetriades.co.uk THE GENTLE BUT POWERFUL METAMORPHIC TECHNIQUE IS ALSO AVAILABLE.

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37 37

Gaia House’s annual group

retreat for young people. local people local events local food local health local environment WELLBEING

From co-dependency into interdependency WHAT does it mean to have a ‘conscious relationship’?

Sexual Shamanic Healer and Sexual Empowerment Coach Catherine Hale, right, shares her thoughts…

W

E are all born into a relationship with someone who has the responsibility to take care of us.

In an ideal life this caregiver would give us all that we need and then, over time, gently move away so we can step into greater responsibility for our lives.

However, for most of us, our childhood needs aren’t completely met and we step into adult life not knowing how to take full responsibility for our lives.

From this place of limited personal responsibility we enter into intimate relationships where we unconsciously hope for all our needs to be fulfilled by the other person.

The difference with a conscious relationship is that it gives us the opportunity to take responsibility for who we are and for the lives we have created. We can take a look at ourselves. Everything we normally hide - our addictions, and

challenging behaviours - can be reflected back to us by our partner and the truth can begin to be revealed.

Sharing this journey of revealing the truth with another person is one of life’s most challenging adventures. In this willingness for truth we’re able to identify how we pretend and lie, and create a false self-image.

Part of taking responsibility is about doing our own work, looking at where we need to grow and to shed the skin of falsity. Many of us need support in the area of intimacy and sexuality and are looking for a space where we can talk about sexuality, to know ourselves as sexual beings and to be met with acceptance.

Join me for one of my upcoming events, or book a 1:1 session so you can step into 2016 out of codependency into interdependency, the path of true love and the opportunity for complete freedom.

Catherine is holding a series of workshops for women, including: Womb Medicine: Connecting with the Wisdom of our Wombs, in Totnes on February 7; and Anatomy of Arousal: Her Hidden Pleasure, in Glastonbury on March 5. Visit www. tantricawakening.org.

Where young people can connect

F

OR the eleventh year running, Gaia House is hosting its popular annual group retreat for young people.

Open to all adults aged 16-25, this tailored silent meditation retreat offers the chance to “step outside life’s busy routines and learn to connect to our direct experience and bring wise, compassionate responses to each moment in our lives”.

Jake Dartington will be leading the retreat alongside Paul Burrows.

Jake said: “We will learn ways to respond creatively to the obstacles and habits that appear to obscure our innate qualities of wisdom and compassion. Our exploration will be supported by meditation instructions, Dharma talks and meetings with the teachers in small groups. ‘Dharma’ is the term used in the Buddhist tradition, to refer to the teachings of the Buddha.”

Jordan Hendrie, who participated in the 2015 retreat, said: “The Young Persons’ Retreat at Gaia House gave me an insight into meditation, and was an opportunity to develop my understanding of the practice together with like-minded people. I believe the retreat has had a lasting benefit in terms of my ability to deal with stressful situations, and I feel I have increased in confidence now as the retreat was something I did on my own.”

Jordan is hoping to participate again this year.

Gaia House is a silent meditation retreat centre offering meditation instruction and teachings drawn from a variety of Buddhist traditions.

It is located in countryside a few miles outside Newton Abbot. Gaia House is a registered (non-profit) charity committed to preserving, protecting and enhancing emotional, psychological, physical, and spiritual health through meditation. All retreats are held in silence, with the exception of Family Retreats.

Co-director Diana Parratt said: “We’re delighted our Young Persons’ Retreat is becoming increasingly popular each year, with many participants returning annually. We’ve been running the retreat since 2005, and we keep the price as low as we can to ensure that it’s accessible to as many young people as possible.”

The Young Persons’ Retreat runs this year from May 28-30. Find out more at www.gaiahouse.co.uk or call 01626 333613.

BEAUTIFUL ROOMS for Therapy and Healing.

FOR TALKING THERAPIES AND HOLISTIC HEALTH

www.thepracticerooms.co.uk 15 - 16 Castle Street, Exeter EX4 3PT

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www.reconnectonline.co.uk

local people local events local food local health local environment

EMOTIONAL HEALTH

WELCOME back to Emotional Health and our continuing exploration into all things emotional. This time, LEIGH SMITH looks at how bringing creativity into our lives can improve our overall health and wellbeing...

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) (Stimulates the immune system to function optimally)

The Bowen Technique

Exploring the art of living

T

HERE is a growing body of evidence that being creative can dramatically improve health and increase our wellbeing.

In 2011 the British Medical Association published a paper on the ‘Psychological needs of clients’, which showed that when arts and creativity were introduced to health care, positive outcomes became noticeable, the need for medication was reduced, time spent in hospital was reduced, and relationships between doctor and client where improved.

So, what is creativity then?

Well, creativity isn’t the same as being artistic, so don’t worry if you don’t consider yourself ‘arty’.

Creativity involves a way of ‘being’, a way of ‘thinking’ and noticing our own unique attitude to life.

What we are talking about here is ‘everyday creativity’; the way in which we navigate our day-to-day challenges. How we creatively cope with adversity, weaving possibilities into our world and our relationships.

Bringing a curious awareness to our inner creative impulses can offer the creator new resilience, perspective, and aliveness in the moment, and create joy, and purpose in our lives.

How might this look?

Right now there is a lot of talk about creativity.

Many parents are concerned their children are spending too long on screen-based activities and losing their innate creativity; concerned that schools are destroying creativity, and that our very future depends on our ability to apply creative strategies to the threat of climate change.

There exists a clear link between creativity and better physical and mental health. So let’s get creative; let’s move towards a happier, less anxious and more resilient 2016.

No matter how old you are, or how ‘arty’ you feel yourself to be, it’s

time to bring a little creativity into our lives.

Think back to the last time you allowed yourself to doodle, daydream or get absorbed in designing your flower beds.

Remember how good it felt to become lost in completing a crotchet blanket or a bit of whittling?

Did you get the sense of time dissolving and the world standing still? This is mindfulness in action, staying focused and attentive to one task allows the stress and tensions of our world to fade into the background.

So what do you fancy? A bit of a knit? A photography project? Time spent redesigning your garden or a mosaic mirror? Or perhaps your creative self will become absorbed in reading about religions or opinions which differ from your own - historical novels, or unknown lands. Perhaps it’s time to plan a trip and have a completely creative adventure exploring another culture.

Whether your creative plans involve a poem a day or a year’s sabbatical travelling the world, you will immediately feel the benefits of getting your creative juices flowing. Start gently: a little flourish of parsley on your sausage and mash; a notebook in your bag to capture those momentary insights; a doodle pad next to the office phone. Setting yourself up with a huge project can lead to a sense of overwhelm and fear of judgement.

Together, let us step into our creative selves; dance with our imaginations; meet in curiosity and nudge colour into grey corners of our routine lives.

Let us remember what it is to live without a deadline or the pressure for our endeavors to be productive and useful.

Let us value our imaginations as an instrument of survival, and together, let us creatively thrive.

Leigh Smith is director of studies, course designer and tutor at Heartwood Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy Training.

Visit www.heartwoodcounselling.org or call 01803 865464.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Arcturus Clinic, Totnes Home Visits AMANDA MORRIS

For an appointment please call 07931 505 312

amanda@amandamorris.co.uk www.amandamorris.co.uk

CLT – MLDUK – CertECBS – BTPA

Handmade, herbal, vegan, natural & eco-friendly body care products Local outlets: •

The Chelston Wellbeing Centre, Torquay

•

Oats Healthy Living Store, Brixham (or mail order)

www.greenwyse.co.uk --Consultations with Dawn Ireland Medical Herbalist www.torbay-herbalist.co.uk 07962 664 294

Andy Thompson, Clin. Hom, Dip. B.F.D. ‘Helping you to heal yourself’

BioEnergetic Health

An innovative testing and treatment method effective for acute, long-term and difficult-to-diagnose health problems.

Free taster sessions at the BioEnergetic Health Clinic and Greenlife in Totnes 07503 111057

www.bioenergetichealth.net

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

39

ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE

The Alexander Technique Poise is our natural starting point… …we just need to be ‘re-minded’

classifiedads - WELCOME TO THE RECONNECT SMALL ADS -

MASSAGE

FOR READERS...

our classified ads are the at-a-glance, alphabetical listing for services and products. Who can resist the small ads? Who knows what, or who, you might find?

FOR ADVERTISERS...

jennyquicktm@gmail.com www.jennyquick.co.uk • 07925 654228 MEDITATION MP3

Positive Affirmations & Meditation MP3s • Confidence for Children and Teens • Rose Quartz Meditation • Power Up! 25 Positive Affirmations to Start Your Day • Power Down! 25 Positive Affirmations to End Your Day

these pages are the most affordable way to get your message across. The single and double column boxes, below, cost just £55 and £98, respectively. We can help with content and design. The lineage ads cost just 90p a word, with a minimum of 20 words.

Call to find out more about the single and double column boxes or email your classified ad to adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk (please include a postal address and phone number if they’re not in the ad) and we’ll simply send you an invoice.

REFLEXOLOGY

THE DEADLINE... for the April/May issue is Tuesday March 1, but call us as soon as possible and we’ll get the ball rolling.

Search for “Stefania Lintonbon” on iTunes, Amazon and in the Google Play Android Store

and psychotherapist.

Psychosynthesis and Core Process. Working with Relationship, Depth, Integrity and Soul.

Central Exeter, Totnes and Plymouth. Www. davidoxleycounselling. co.uk 07876 051093.

www.positiveaffirmationsandaudiostories.co.uk PositiveAffirmationsAndAudioStories @AffirmHappiness stefsvoice@mail.com • 07946190026

REIKI

BODYMIND THERAPY TRAUMA release through somatic and personal story work, presence-based approach. Coaching: Bringing your Gifts and Solo Performance.

Agata Krajewska, ATH Registered, 07795002816, www. yournaturalpresence.com.

COUNSELLING SHIATSU

DAVID OXLEY MA Fully qualified Accredited BACP counsellor

CREATIVE COUNSELLOR Heartful, Supportive Counselling. Creative Exercises including Art, Sandplay, etc.

Adults, Young People, some concs available.

Ruth Jenni Adv Dip Couns, 07974097787, www.oakflower. co.uk. Dartington, Buckfastleigh, Newton Abbot and on Skype.

COUNSELLORS! If you need to find more clients, you could get your message out here for just 90p a word - email admin@ reconnectonline.co.uk for more information.

In small confidential groups and using nature’s ingredients sticks, leaves, flowers, mud, stones, shells & feathers - we will explore the depth of our souls, making art forms to express our inner-most feelings Join our monthly group sessions, 9.30am-12.30pm, one Saturday each month at two venues: Lupton House, Torbay & Ash Tree Farm, Dartmouth - also one to one counselling, specialist trauma focused therapy and sand tray therapy

Contact Annie: 07760 439760 anniwils@talktalk.net www.natureswaycounselling.co.uk (One-day experiential workshop for Mental Health Professionals April 2016)

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S0-IS-IT HEALING USING Words, Sound, Music, Movement, Energy, Mudras. To help any problem (physical, emotional, mental, spiritual). Bookings, call 01752 500426. Many blessings from illona.

Small ads with BIG impact!

Reconnect classified lineage ads are just 90p a word, with a minimum of 20 words and a single column box (like those above) are just £55, or £24.75pm.

Call us now on 01803 868455 or email us at adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk.

Therapeutic Counselling Supervision Hypnotherapy and Stress Management

Pat Hoare

Outside group therapy sessions

HOLISTIC COUNSELLOR specialising in trauma/ abuse, and for those feelings/emotions difficult to put into words. Working with art, sand and outside among nature. Annie, www. natureswaycounselling. co.uk, call 07760 439760.

RELAX, CLEANSE, STRENGTHEN. Full hour or 45-minute treatments at Totnes Natural Health Centre. Nicola Moulton - Reflexology Practitioner MBRCP R Assoc BRCP OM, 07522 344291, nicolasuzanne@hotmail. co.uk.

THERAPEUTIC COUNSELLING

THERAPY IN NATURE

NATURE AND WILDERNESS THERAPY

HAWAIIAN Lomi Lomi massage in Totnes and Plymouth with Helena Akashi. Benefits include detoxification, stressrelease, deep relaxation and inner-peace, balance and harmony and more. 07742 199262, akashialoha@gmail.com, www.infinitewonderswithin. com.

Over 32 years’ experience - offers confidential therapeutic counselling for individuals and couples.

PAT HOARE. DIP. COUNS. B.A.C.P. ACCREDITED

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24a Gandy Street Exeter EX4 3LS Tel: 01392 410090 Email: pat@pathoare.eclipse.co.uk Web: www.caseconfidential.com

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email: localwellbeing@reconnectonline.co.uk people local events local food local health local environment WORKSHOPS&COURSES

FIND SOME SPACE IN THE CITY

ADVERTISE your workshops or courses here. It costs just 90p a word, with a minimum of 20 words. Or book a 1/8-page in the Wellbeing section and get free entries here! Email us now at adverts@ reconnectonline.co.uk, or call us on 01803 868455.

TUESDAYS

SOCIAL Reading Group for bereaved with Sarah Hopkins, Heart and Soul Funerals, Riverstone, Buckfastleigh TQ11 0NF. Tuesdays 2-4pm: February 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd; March 1st, 8th, 15th and 22nd.

Donations welcome. www. heartandsoulfunerals. co.uk.

SING Til You Zing! Funky Bizness community choir, St Sidwells Community Centre, Exeter EX4 6NN, 7.15-9pm, www.funkybizness.co.uk.

THURSDAYS

SING Til You Zing! Funky

Bizness community choir, Pomphlett Methodist Church, Plymouth PL9 7BL, 7.15-9pm, www. funky-bizness.co.uk.

www.sharphamtrust. org, call 01803 732542, email bookings@ sharphamtrust.org.

CREATING Space - a creative retreat for women led by Kamini Gupta, Sharpham Trust, Ashprington, Totnes, www.sharphamtrust. org, call 01803 732542, email bookings@ sharphamtrust.org.

SUNDAY 7

WOMB Medicine: Connecting with the Wisdom of our Wombs, Totnes, catherine@ tantricawakening.org, www.tantricawakening. org.

THURS 25-SUN 28

BRINGING singing to mindfulness & mindfulness to singing led by Emily Roblyn, Sharpham Trust, Ashprington, Totnes,

SATURDAY 5

Exeter Natural Health Centre, off Gandy Street Contact Ali on 01392 422555/info@enhc.org

ANATOMY of Arousal: Her Hidden Pleasure, Glastonbury, catherine@ tantricawakening.org, www.tantricawakening.org.

“

SAT 19

SAT 19/SUN 20

METAMORPHIC Technique workshop with Helena Demetriades, Dartington, 10am-5pm each day, £145. Suitable for beginners and those wishing to train as practitioners. See courses page at www. helenedemetriades.co.uk.

la Chirop Claire Ryan - O

Let Reconnect spread the word for YOU Call 01803 868455 www.passionatepresence.org Email adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

Hillyfield Hens

Holistic Therapies for the Mind, Body & Soul

Compassionately-reared poultry

] Body Massage (Swedish, Aromatherapy, Therapeutic) ] Indian Head Massage ] Reflexology ] Hopi Ear Candling ] Holistic Facials ] Reiki

Spring chickens!

] Special Offers ] Packages ] Mobile service Gift Vouchers available To find out more, please call or visit online

Beryl Roseblade MICHT MFHT,

£18.00 Brixham ▪ Paignton ▪ Torquay Tel: 01803 853605 Mob: 07753 471618

www.restoremetherapies.com

You can advertise in this classified section for as little as £18 (therapists get a free picture, while space allows - first come, first served). Call Martin now on 01803 868455.

herapy t Katheryn Trenshaw d e s i t r e dv

Centre d We a PassionateotPresence s an neExpression T n i for Creative s room phone: e s 863552 ou1803 ri(0) +44 s r u o f d ha skype: katheryntrenshaw just a npost@ktrenshaw.com i h t i w s email: e i onnect c e enquir R f o s day couple of lished being pub ractic Centre

SPRING Equinox Veriditas Labyrinth workshop in Seaton, East Devon.

Healing Hearts and Landscapes, with Zoe (07826 440931) and SueClaire (07913 891804), www.healinghearts andlandscapes.co.uk.

Restore-me Therapies

www.reconnectonline.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Training room for up to 25 people seated Smaller spaces for one-to-one client meetings Affordable rates (from £12ph) - pay as you go City centre location with nearby parking Perfect for any green business or group

MARCH

FEBRUARY THURS 4-SUN 7

• • • • •

“

MONDAYS

BEREAVEMENT choir with Peter Scott, Heart and Soul Funerals, Riverstone, Buckfastleigh TQ11 0NF. Tuesday 2-4pm.

February 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th. March 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th. Donations. www. heartandsoulfunerals. co.uk.

Exeter rooms to hire on demand – pay as you go

Various breeds Affordable prices Reared naturally on Dartmoor!

Plus free and friendly advice and support!

Visit www.thehillyfield.co.uk Email jennfoster58@googlemail.com.

Call Jenny on 07976 504 918 or Doug on 07976 589 827

Editorial: 01803 01803 868455 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk editor@reconnectonline.co.uk Editorial:

41 41

And finally...

BACK in the late Seventies, there was a cult magazine on an illegal subject edited by... guess who?

Oh no, it’s him again...

Back to a time when Foster did it with frequency...

G

OT your ears on, good buddy? Does that mean anything to you? The Americanism is a clue, but even if I tell you it was a phrase used by CB radio enthusiasts, you might be none the wiser. In fact, it played a vital part in the creation of Reconnect. Sort of.

CB, or Citizen’s Band, is a personal radio system that first appeared in the States back in the Forties and really took off in the Seventies when solid state technology allowed the design of smaller units, and provided a means of personal communication on the move.

This was waaaaay before mobile, or cell, phones; although CB radio is still used today in some specialist applications (hillfarmers, for example) and by some diehard enthusiasts.

The radio units then came in the form of handhelds (think walkie-talkies the size of housebricks with aerials like fishing rods), in-car units and base stations for use at home. But it was the in-car units that captured the imagination of US motorists, who used them to chat to each other about everyday nonsense (a sort of Facebook over the airwaves, really) and especially to warn each other of the presence of cops (Smokey Bear in CB slang) struggling to impose the US 55mph speed limit. You might remember its greatest on-screen moment when CB radio took the starring roll in the movie Smokey and The Bandit, easily upstaging the super-tashed Burt Reynolds.

In the land of the free and the raving, CB radio was another example of

‘

...a (by definition) antiestablishment stance; it was even the first magazine on an illegal subject to be stocked by newsagent WH Smith...

freedom. In the UK... it wasn’t. CB radio first came to these shores illegally, operating on the same 27MHz AM frequency used in the States and it was then that I became involved as the editor of the first UK magazine on the subject, Breaker.

As an ambitious 25-year-old journalist, this was my big break: a national magazine; a less than serious, and at times downright surreal and scurrilous editorial policy; pretty much complete control; a (by definition) anti-establishment stance; it was even the first magazine on an illegal subject to be stocked by newsagent WH Smiths. This magazine had it all. All except a subject matter that I had no more than a theoretical interest in…

But to the career-building journo this was no barrier. I was happy to play around with CB radio enough to know what the enthusiasts wanted and I was learning a lot about putting a magazine together. And having great fun writing bad jokes (no change there then) and a wild time with the journos from the publisher’s other magazines (some of which I was contributing to on a freelance basis).

But as well as kicking off my magazine editing career, that early involvement in CB radio has also pretty much defined my relationship with technology every since. To me, it is what they called back then ‘black box technology’. Press the ‘on’ button, use it to make your life easier/ more fun/more exciting, turn it off. If it doesn’t work, call someone who knows how to fix it.

I later edited hi-fi magazines on exactly the same level: the techno geeks did their techno testing in their techno labs; the hi-fi geeks insisted on using their gold speaker cable in the same direction as it was manufactured (no, really, they did); and I got to listen to music on some wonderful hi-spec systems and to

put together the magazine (Stereothe magazine, trivia fans) I knew the readers wanted.

Today I see new media in much the same light.

As the owner of a small, local business, and particularly one based in the media itself, I recognise the value of Twitter, Facebook, blogs and the internet generally - but I don’t use it like the next generation does, as a source of all knowledge and entertainment and a tool to improve all aspects of their lives.

I believe there will always be a demand for paper media. No matter how sophisticated Kindle gets, it will always feel special to hold a book in your hands; to pass it on with a recommendation; to line them up on your bookshelf like literary merit badges. And no matter how slick online magazines become, people will always want to grab a paper version; to flick though it whenever and wherever they want.

Despite a storm of online entertainment, radio, TV and even cinema continues to thrive. Different media offers different things to different people.

But the areas where new and old media overlap are really exciting.

At Reconnect we use new media to augment what we do in the mag.

We use Facebook and Twitter to spread the word about what you’ll find in new issues, what our friends in the community are doing and a whole load of other stuff we feel deserves repeating.

Our new website allows you to read the latest issue, and back issues, online; to access our archive of articles; to check out our advertisers; to find out more about the mag (including how to advertise – the lifeblood of a free magazine, of course) and takes you straight into the new ReconnectHub, the online events

‘

Call Isha Olsen-Wells on 07805419864 ishahahaha@hotmail.com

Passionate Presence Centre for Creative Expression phone: +44 (0) 1803 863552 skype: katheryntrenshaw email: post@ktrenshaw.com

Re-Membering l Re-Invention l Re-Vision Two-hour, one-to-one sessions for professional, personal and artistic development - by phone or Skype

Based in the Totnes & at the Ola Centre

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TRADITIONAL MASSAGE FROM EAST & WEST

Holistic Oil Massage Deep Tissue Massage Thai Yoga Massage Thai Foot Massage Tok Sen Available to teach Thai Yoga Massage

diary that’s going to keep you SO busy in 2016.

The various experts we’re working with in each area of new media constantly introduce me to new things we can do and you can expect more in the future. But rest assured, the paper version will always live on. It is what our accountant likes to call our ‘core business’. I know it as something I love. And from the feedback we get, we know many of you do too.

Paid-for magazines can look to their growing (or otherwise) circulations as a measure of their success, but things aren’t quite as simple for a free magazine. We know though that our outlets (from libraries and wholefood stores to galleries and cafes) welcome the new issues with open arms when we drop them off; that enthusiastic readers have been in asking if it’s arrived yet.

And we also get positive and incredibly warm feedback through phone calls, emails and, yes, through new media.

So no matter how much of the magazine we put online (and the website will continue to allow you to read every issue online), readers still want the good old (yes, yes, ‘old’, I’m fine with old) tactile paper version.

One final point. While each new issue flies out of distribution outlets (you can see the full list online, incidentally - see, augmenting all over the place), we are always looking for new ones. We’d particularly like to be getting more mags into Torquay, Paignton, Dartmouth and Plymouth, so if you have a shop or appropriate business in any of those areas and fancy a few Reconnect readers dropping in to say hi, email me at editor@reconnectonline.co.uk. l Read more about Reconnect’s new online activity on page 16.

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

Feel welcome to sign up for our free newsletter at

www.passionatepresence.org www.reconnectonline.co.uk

NEW 8 WEEK MINDFULNESS COURSES START AGAIN IN MAY 2016

MINDFULNESS FOR EVERYDAY LIFE. SATURDAY MORNINGS OF MINDFULNESS 10.00AM-12.30 13TH FEB, 12TH MAR AND 23RD APRIL 2016.

Feel like you are not in charge of your mind?

Barefoot Mindfulness run mindfulness courses for individuals, couples and businesses to help everyone develop new skills to relieve stress and improve experiences by changing how we relate to our thoughts and feelings. It can also help us to be more aware of good things in our lives. Anyone can learn mindfulness and gain something valuable from it. Come and join us and see for yourself.

Contact us for more information: T: 01752 777239, E: mindful@barefootmindfulness.co.uk A: 1 Officers Quarters, Crownhill Fort, Crownhill Fort Road, Plymouth PL6 5BX

www.barefootmindfulness.co.uk

C A S T L E F I E L D

FINANCIAL ADVICE FOR THE THOUGHTFUL INVESTOR

Castlefield combines the pioneering talents of Gaeia and Barchester Green, to create a single financial advisory firm that focuses on responsible investment above all else.

Alongside our in-house investment management expertise, whether we’re advising on establishing an investment portfolio, arranging for its ongoing management or helping you to plan for your retirement, rest assured we not only understand that personal values play a big part in how you make choices in life, but we’re fully equipped to implement them too.

That’s why we work closely with our clients to help them to define exactly the kinds of investments they’d like to favour, as an integral part of ensuring that we fulfil their financial objectives.

Our clients know that their investments can have the best possible environmental, social and financial impacts. If you’d like to discover thoughtful investment for yourself, contact us today.

Castlefield.com T: Salisbury (01722) 331 241 Twitter.com/_castlefield

E: queries@castlefield.com

Financial advisory services are provided by Castlefield Advisory Partners Limited (CAP). Investment management services are provided by Castlefield Investment Partners LLP (CIP). Castlefield is a trading name of both CAP and CIP and the property of Castlefield Partners Limited. CAP and CIP are both authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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