Health & Wellbeing

Health & Wellbeing Massage is the message for babies & parents

Baby massage has long been advised by experts as a way for parents to calm, and bond with, their newborn child. And a new series of videos put together by Dorset HealthCare’s Perinatal Service provides simple, practical tips on how to do it. Nursery nurse Claire Starling says baby massage has a range of benefits for both parents and children, from easing teething pains to improving sleep patterns. She has created a number of short clips to help demonstrate how a baby can be soothed and relaxed through two different massage techniques. The first involves gentle stroking, which calms a baby and increases circulation, while the other helps babies suffering from eczema and cradle cap, as well as stimulating their immune system. The sun’s arc is sinking lower, and the days are shortening but nature is still delivering its healing surprises. It is now mid-autumn and seasonal gales have cast the remaining leaves to the ground. Whilst out walking alongside a small woodland, I notice some fine crimson leaves and the familiar pink haze of a spindle tree shimmering against the crisp blueness of an autumnal sky. Up close, my eyes delight on the zingy orange berries that burst out from their lipstickpink pods; tiny baubles that dangle from the spindle’s thin branches, bringing a burst of colour to this weather-torn hedge land. If not subjected to annual cutting by a mechanical flail, a spindle tree, such as this one, can live for over 100 years and grow 9m tall. The straight and strong pale wood that it produces was once used for making the spindles that spun and wound the thread from wool, giving the plant its common name. They are found throughout Europe and typically along the margins of ancient woodland. I barely regard them all year, even their pretty white starshaped flowers in Spring can go unnoticed. It is only now in their late November colours that they steal the show. Yet it is a hedgerow tree that I hold very dear. I still recall my childhood excitement when I first encountered the spindle’s exotic fruits. My father collected the seeds and grew them in his Dartmoor garden. Long after his death, his spindle tree continued to flourish and with it, all the wildlife that it attracted: holly blue butterflies, ermine moths, ladybirds and lacewings. Although all parts of the spindle tree are toxic for humans, (like poor Sleeping Beauty who pricked her finger on a spindle), they provide

VIDEO: Newborn Bonding Nursery Nurse Claire Starling Claire said: “Baby massage behaviour, crying and body not only helps the baby, it language to increase the provides an opportunity ability to nurture and care for for parents to spend quality their child. time with their child instead “Massage not only has the of just seeing to their daily physical effect of soothing needs. and calming a baby’s body, it “It helps gain a deeper and also has psychological more confident effects – giving them a sense understanding of their baby’s of feeling safe, secure, loved and cared for. “It’s an ideal way to enhance bonding and attachment.” Baby massage can also sooth babies to sleep, aid digestion, ease teething pains, improve circulation and improve weight gain. And research suggests it can significantly help mums who may be suffering with postnatal depression, or are at risk of depression, to interact with their child. Claire added: “You can massage your baby as much as you want. “Some parents give daily massage as part of a routine, especially at night to sooth them to sleep. “Others choose to massage their baby when they want to feel close to them or want to offer a different activity.”

n You can watch the films online at: dorsethealthcare.

Spindle tree colours bring back memories

50 nhs.uk/baby-massage-videos important winter food for birds, mice and even foxes. It was mostly the robins I remember though. They would lay their claim and fiercely defend the berries. Robins, it turns out, are fundamental to the distribution of this native plant. As I wander on, I eventually remember Euonymus europaea, the botanical name for a spindle tree, based upon ‘eu’ the Greek prefix for ‘good’. In Celtic folklore, spindle’s magical properties make it a ‘lucky tree’. I certainly feel blessed seeing it today; the bright orange seeds for my own garden clasped tightly in my hand feel as precious as jewels sent by my father from some far away shore. Dr Susie Curtin

Health & Wellbeing Let’s talk about communication

By Alice Johnsen

During any stressful period of our lives, one of the first things to suffer is very often good communication. Our concentration and attention to detail is not as good as when we are not over stressed. Our reactions are based more on emotion than logic. When our stress levels are high, we are more likely to use the emotional right side of our brain rather than the logical left in order to take decisions. This can mean that we react in a fast but unconsidered way, which can add to bad communications within either a professional or personal relationship. Our emotional resilience is lowered by stress, which can affect the way we react to other people’s decisions. That can lead to a greater risk of misinterpretation and a breakdown of clear understanding. So how to solve this? First, recognition. If you recognise communication within any relationship needs improving, you have taken the first step to clarity. Secondly, in order to address this successfully, finding the right time and place to discuss the issues is key. To get the best out of a potentially difficult conversation it is sensible to identify a good time of day when neither party is distracted (no phones in the room) or tired and when the risk of interruption is low. Both parties need to agree that all cards must go on the table but – and this is essential – with kindness. Consider how you would feel if you heard the words you speak spoken to you. Next, in a conversation like this, it is so important that you really, really listen. Also that you accept there may well be a need to embrace change or to compromise. To quote Jim Rohn: “Effective communication is 20% what you know and 80% how you feel about what you know.” Finally, if you can, return to the conversation after a few weeks have passed – don’t just leave it as a one-off. Be honest about what has or has not changed and what is or is not working for you. If you are aware of what is increasing the stress for either party that has caused the initial breakdown of communication, look to address that too. Be calm, flexible and kind. Be patient. Communication is so key to our every interaction. It deserves protecting. Alice Johnsen is a life coach based just outside Sherborne. 07961 080513 alicejohnsen.co.uk

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Health & Wellbeing Weed is good for you! (Dandelions that is)

Think before you dig up your dandelions. They are one of the most useful herbal medicines we have and you can use the whole plant. As a species, we developed alongside the flora and fauna of the natural world. Plants and berries and the odd bit of meat was our staple diet until we started to farm. Our bodies have not evolved as fast as our technology hence many ailments and diseases arising from processed foods and chemicals that we are not equipped to deal with in large loads. To remain healthy you need to have a slightly alkaline internal environment and to do this, you need to eat lots of dark green, leafy vegetables which carry magnesium, iron and calcium as well as vitamins, proteins and minerals vital for our cellular structure. BLANDFORD Park in or close to Salisbury Road (wherever you can find free parking!) near the cemetery. Visit the war graves etc and notice, grouped together, the ornate and well maintained graves of the local Romany families. Head north up Shaftesbury Lane for half a mile then left, south west, down Tin Pot Lane, then turn right, north east to enter the Milldown Nature Reserve which is worth spending some time exploring, especially if your visit is in the flowery season. At the south west end of Milldown you can join the Dandelions have been used for years as an aid for all manner of ailments from arthritis to heart disease, to cirrhosis of the liver to skin problems, haemorrhoids, eczema and alcoholism. Basically, they get the system moving by stimulating your liver and gall bladder to produce digestive juices. This not only allows better assimilation of your food, former Slow and Dirty Railway line and head south east for a couple of furlongs, passing a playing field on your right. Cross the playing field to join Park Road and head south east, then down Damory Street until you reach East Street, the town centre. Make your way West along East Street where there are lots of small and interesting shops. The church is on your right, which is worth a visit. It was, like much of the town, built by the Bastards following the great fire which destroyed everything in 1731. Notice the water fountain at the corner of Church Lane. Opposite the church is an alleyway down which is the

A walk around...

but can also alleviate elimination it can help with bloating and flatulence. clearing uric acid which They act as a slight laxative accumulates in joints causing and a diuretic (making you arthritis and gout. Stopping pee more) aiding elimination your body holding onto of toxins, extremely water lessens oedema or important for keeping your water retention which in turn blood clean and body keeps blood pressure down healthy. Clean, healthy blood and helps to clear out any allows the movement of urinary tract infections. oxygen and nutrients as well The liver and it’s ability to as hormones to travel around clear toxins in closely related the body freely. to the skin and both can be You can treat dandelion helped taking dandelion. leaves as a food and add Lastly, the flowers (which them to a salad or even eat are sometimes made into them as a little appetiser wine) contain a nutrient that before your main meal. The increases the levels of dried root can be made into a acetylcholine in the brain, a powder and has been used as depletion of which is linked a rather revolting (in my to Alzheimer’s. opinion) substitute for coffee. Both the root and leaves are also tinctured; a used to extract all it’s nutrients. As the plant Fiona Chapman is studying naturopathy and herbal medicine at is useful for the College of Naturopathic Medicine

with retired Dorset rights of way officer Chris Slade

52 process where alcohol is

The Romany graves in Blandford Cemetery

town museum, which is worth a visit (if open). It is run by volunteers with free entry (donations welcome). Continue along East Street past the car park until on your left is an alleyway leading to/past Morrison’s supermarket and car park, beyond which is an area of pleasant parkland alongside the Stour, the parish boundary. After exploring it, make your way back to the west end of East Street where there is a junction with Salisbury Street which you follow north east for about a mile until you find your car.

FLU FIGHTERS: Age UK is urging all senior citizens to have their flu jab. Inset: Chief executive oficer Dave Thorp

Age UK urging flu jab for senior folks

Age UK North, South & West Dorset flu vaccine. Antibiotics and other (NSWD) is urging older people to get medication won’t help to prevent you the flu jab. from getting flu. With coronavirus sticking around, the “There are different flu strains, so each charity is encouraging them to protect year the vaccine is created to protect themselves and others, and prevent against the most prevalent strain.” hospital admissions. Flu is a seasonal illness which is Chief executive officer Dave Thorp usually at its most prevalent from said: “This year has been exceptionally October to March each year. Flu is hard for older people. We know the much more than a nasty cold. In combination of cold weather, shorter England, flu caused more than 1,700 days and seasonal flu means winter is admissions to hospital in people aged already a tough time for some of the 65 and over in 2018-19. most vulnerable people.” The ageing process weakens the immune system meaning our bodies are less able to fight off illnesses. This happens even if you are fit and healthy. Low mood? Feeling Stuck? Angry? Dramatherapy could help. Dave Thorp added: “The best way to Rebecca Peacock protect yourself and others is to get the HCPC registered 07388110895 peacocktherapy.co.uk

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When the home that you love has become too much for you to cope with, and you worry about the everyday things like cooking meals and caring for yourself, then it may be time to consider an easier way of life. St Denis Lodge is a beautifully appointed house with an attractive garden and conservatory. We would welcome an opportunity to show you why it is one of the most highly regarded homes in the area. Contact Vicki Elesmore on 01747 854596 St Denis Lodge, Salisbury Road, Shaftesbury, Dorset SP7 8BS

Health & Wellbeing Make your own...

cleansing balm

By Victoria Brunton

In the last edition, I shared with you my lovely moisturising DIY deodorant bars and today I have one of my top favourite natural skin care recipes to share with you. A nourishing make-up remover and cleansing balm. With this colder weather, it’s more than important to ensure your skin is being kept nourished. I have created a lovely night time skin cleanser which will do just the trick. Water free and consisting of only natural ingredients, you won’t even need to moisturise after cleansing. For this simple recipe you will need the following ingredients: 2 tablespoons Shea Butter 1 tablespoon Cocoa Butter 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil 1 teaspoon Rosehip Oil 5 drops Geranium Rose Essential Oil By Finola Brennan Yoga Instructor and

Ayurvedic Therapist at The Cedar Tree the-cedar-tree.co.uk For some, winter is a wonderful time for slowing down, and cosying up in front of a blazing fire with a cup of cocoa or mulled wine. If that’s not you, perhaps you are ready to pull the duvet over your head in an attempt to stay there until spring. You aren’t alone, especially with the environment we find ourselves in at present. Worry, fear, stress and anxiety compounded by conflicting views, sometimes voiced with great gusto...it’s hardly any wonder we can feel a bit 5 drops Patchouli essential oil Place the Shea Butter, Cocoa Butter and Coconut Oil in a glass bowl and melt over a double boiler or microwave. Keep stirring until all the oils and butters have melted. If using the microwave, give a stir every 30 seconds. Let the mixture cool slightly for about 5 minutes and then add and stir in the Rosehip Oil and essential oils. As strained at times. Thankfully we have a tool to help. Many of us are unaware our breath has a great power that can be harnessed to help overcome moments of anxiety, stress, fear or anger. A breathing practice called the seven/eleven breath, is a simple technique that will help empower you to remain in control. When you first learn the following steps, find a comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed. Close your eyes and begin to notice your breath, observe where you can feel the breath in your body. It may be at your nose, or at your mouth, it may be at the top of your chest. Just take a little bit of time to notice this. If you find thoughts start with all my other recipes, use whatever essential oils provide you with a feeling of calm. Pour the mixture into a glass jar or a container of your choice, allowing it to cool and solidify before use. If you wish to speed up the cooling process, pop it in the fridge. To use, take a scoop of the balm with your fingers and to distract you, this is perfectly normal, as soon as you notice just begin to watch your breath again. Try to encourage deeper breaths to fill your lungs, rather than shallow breathing. Then begin to count to three as you inhale and five as you exhale (or similar, as long as your exhale is a little longer than your inhale). Settle into a rhythm focusing on your breath and counting. Practice for two or three minutes, knowing that at any point you can return to your normal breathing pattern. Eventually you may be able to increase the ratio, inhaling to five, exhaling to seven, then progress to inhale for 7 and exhale for 11. Essentially what you are doing is sending your massage into your face and neck. For a spa like feeling, leave the balm on for a few minutes and then place a warm muslin cloth over your face and inhale the fragrance before gently wiping off the cleanser. Alternatively use a reusable makeup remover pad to wipe off any excess oil. The butters and oils will have already started moisturising so a thin layer will remain for overnight moisturisation. This cleansing balm can also be used as relief for dry elbows and feet as well as a hand and nail cream - so what’s there not to like! If you are looking for natural, eco-friendly gifts this year, my handmade Kunewyk Moisturising Bars and Christmas gift sets are now available online at kunewykwoods.co.uk –proceeds go towards tree planting in Dorset. Prices

Breathing through tough situations

54 start at just £4.75. body the message that all is well and it can get out of its fight or flight ...busy, worried, anxious mode and relax. With practice this will become a natural technique you can do anywhere, to help bring a sense of calm and balance to when things become strained. Quick recap! Close your eyes and begin to notice your breath. Observe where you can feel the breath in your body Focus on your breath Deep breathe, fill your lungs Inhale for 3, exhale for 5 Settle into a rhythm focusing on your breath and countIng Increase your inhale to 5 and exhale to 7, eventually increasing to inhaling for 7 and exhaling for 11.