International Therapist - Winter 2022 by Karen

i n t e r n at i o n a l

The leading magazine for professional therapists

fht.org.uk

Winter 2022

Issue 139

Softly softly Results from FHT’s Long COVID Survey

Myofascial release and sports injuries

Winter 2022

Express yourself – expressive writing for self-care

International therapist 1

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Winter 2022

Contents i n t e r n at i o n a l

The leading magazine for professional therapists

Winter 2022

fht.org.uk

Issue 139

Softly softly Results from FHT’s Long COVID Survey

Inside...

Winter 2022

Myofascial release and sports injuries

Winter 2022

Express yourself – expressive writing for self-care

International therapist 1

Cover feature Softly-softly

Features

Softly softly The latest stats and facts and results from FHT’s 2021 Long COVID Survey

A Thai treat for the feet FHT accredited training provider, Lucy Trend, provides an introduction to Thai foot massage

2021 FHT Excellence Awards A short insight into the work of our 2021 FHT Excellence Awards winners

50,000 people are searching for YOU! FHT’s CEO, Monica Price, explains how to make the most of your personal profile on the FHT Therapist Register

Express yourself Sarah Kuipers explains how expressive writing can help to calm anxiety and process thoughts and emotions

Lash mapping Expert Lash Technician, Natalie Piper, provides a brief introduction to lash mapping

Winter 2022

Members' pages

22 40

Sports injuries and fascia Amanda Oswald discusses a myofascial approach to working with sports injuries

Long COVID research An introduction to two pilot studies looking at complementary therapy approaches to support clients with long COVID

46 Members news 54 New products 55 Competition

Learning 50 Research 52 Medical A-Z – dementia 53 Reading room and spiral quiz 56 CPD questions 57 NEW! Education matters 58 FHT learning 60 FHT accredited courses

Regulars 8 News 10 Things for Winter 11 Seasonal nutrition 12 Viewpoint 18 Here for you 20 Ask an expert 30 Essential oil profile – black pepper 39 6 ways to... 44 Local groups 63 Industry news 66 Guest column... Caroline Nokes MP

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Letter from the editor

Federation of Holistic Therapists 18 Shakespeare Business Centre Hathaway Close Eastleigh Hants SO50 4SR T. 023 8062 4350 E. info@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk Editor Karen Young Creative Director Peter Davies Designer Caitlyn Hobbs Advertising Stel Charalambous T. 01727 739190 E. stel@centuryone.uk Deadlines – Spring/April 2022 (Issue 140) Editorial – 4 Feb Display adverts – 1 April Published – 22 April Chief Executive Officer Monica Price This magazine is wrapped in carbon neutral polythene called PolyAirTM It is the only 100% recyclable carbon neutral material currently available. Please dispose of this in your plastic recycling bin.

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

appy New Year! I hope you had a nice break over the Christmas period, spending time doing the things you love most and boosting your energy levels for the year ahead. While it is hard to believe that we are entering 2022 with COVID still very much on our heels, I hope that two of the features in this issue help to demonstrate that, where appropriate, therapeutic interventions can offer valuable support to people experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of long COVID. To find out more, read our lead article, Softly softly, on page 14, which provides an insight into the findings of our 2021 FHT Long COVID survey. There’s also a special research feature on page 48, where you can learn about two pilot studies looking into complementary therapy approaches to support clients with symptoms of long COVID. If you’d prefer to focus on something other than COVID, I’m sure you will find one or two other topics of interest in this issue including MFR techniques for sports injuries (page 40), an introduction to Thai foot massage (page 22), the benefits of expressive writing (page 34) and the art of lash mapping (page 38). And there’s also a short write-up about each of our deserving 2021 FHT Excellence Award winners on page 26. On a personal note, I would like to take this opportunity to say a very fond farewell to you all, as I finally hang up my hat as editor of International Therapist and head for pastures new. I originally started work at FHT as a

part-time features writer more than 20 years ago and have learnt so much in that time. It really has been a pleasure supporting and representing such a wonderful collective of therapy professionals and my sincere thanks to those of you who have shared your wisdom and experience with me along the way. But most of all, my thanks to each and every one of you for doing the incredible work you do and the difference you make to other people’s health and wellbeing. You really are amazing. I now pass the editor baton across to Molly Denton, who I am confident will give her all to International Therapist and ensure that it grows from strength to strength and remains one of the most respected titles in the industry.

Karen Young, Editor

Useful FHT contacts Monic Price – Chief Executive Officer E. mprice@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk

CPD requirements – Gemma Craggs E. cpd@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk/cpd

International Therapist – Molly Denton E. mdenton@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk/it

Marketing – Cassim Gibbs E. cgibbs@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk

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

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

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

Winter 2022

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President's welcome

In this issue you will see a continued focus on self-care and what you can do as a therapist to look after your own wellbeing something that can easily be forgotten about until it’s too late"

elcome, everyone, to 2022. I hope you had a great Christmas and New Year and enjoyed some nice activities over the festive period. Looking back at the tail end of 2021, I am sure many of you will be filled with a sense of great achievement, especially our FHT Excellence Award winners and finalists. A big congratulations to you all and thank you for sharing your success stories with us, as it really gives the FHT and the industry something to shout about. If you’d like to know a little bit more about each of the winners, please turn to page 26, and no doubt we’ll be hearing more about their work in future issues. Looking forward now into 2022, we have just launched our very own official FHT Therapist Register, which we are very excited about. This will be the key register within the industry to signpost clients to, for qualified, experienced practitioners. Please make sure you update your personal profile on the register, providing your key contact details, a professional head and shoulders shot or business logo, and an introduction into what you do. If you’re not sure how to go about this, there’s an

article on page 29 that will help to walk you through the process, step by step. Our membership magazine continues to lead the industry in all things therapy and wellbeing and in this issue you will see a focus on self-care and what you can do as a therapist to look after your own wellbeing - something that can easily be forgotten about until it’s too late and we start to notice the signs of stress. As a keen ultra-distance runner, I use my time on long runs to clear my head; many a problem can be seen more clearly after we have taken a bit of time to breathe and let the mind settle. In this issue, we have an excerpt from Susan Kuipers’ new book, The Thriving Giver, that looks at how expressive writing can help to calm the body and mind (page 34) and FHT’s CEO, Monica Price, offers six top tips on how to boost our energy levels (page 39). So enjoy the magazine, take a break and have a great start to 2022.

Christopher Byrne, President

FHT Governing council President

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

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

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

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

Mary Dalgleish ICHT (International Council of Holistic Therapists)

Judith Hadley ATL (Association of Therapy Lecturers)

Maria Mason HBEF (Health and Beauty Employers Federation)

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

Lay member

Helen Chambers (representing the interests of the public) Winter 2022

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News

NEWS

The latest health, therapy and business news...

Ban on targeted advertising of non-surgical cosmetic procedures to under-18s Following a public consultation which ran from September to October 2020, the Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP) and Broadcast Committee of Advertising Practice (BCAP) are introducing restrictions that will prohibit targeted advertising of cosmetic interventions to under-18s. The new restrictions will come into effect on 25 May 2022 and will require that: n Ads for cosmetic interventions must not appear in nonbroadcast media directed at under-18s; n Ads for cosmetic interventions must not appear in other non-broadcast media where under-18s make up over 25% of the audience; and n Broadcast ads for cosmetic interventions must not appear during or adjacent to programmes commissioned for, principally directed at, or likely to appeal particularly to under-18s. CAP and BCAP will conduct a 12-month, post-implementation review to ensure that the new rules are functioning as intended. In a news item highlighting these changes, CAP and BCAP commented, ‘Children and young people are particularly vulnerable to body image pressures and negative body image

perceptions are prevalent amongst those groups, which can have an impact on their self-esteem, wellbeing, mental health and behaviours. In particular, the period of adolescence has been highlighted in the evidence cited by consultation respondents as a life stage in which children and young people’s body image positivity may rapidly decline. ‘Children and young people’s body image perceptions and their susceptibility to pressures to change their appearance, including considering cosmetic interventions as a potential means to address those concerns, are influenced by a number of social and cultural factors. Nevertheless, the evidence shows there is potential that exposure to different forms of media including advertising, particularly those that focus on body image ‘improvements’ such as cosmetic intervention procedures, is likely to exacerbate body image dissatisfaction and negativity during vulnerable stages of their lives.’ n To read the full news item from CAP/BCAP, visit fht.org.uk/ IT-139-news-CAP n To read the updated CAP guidance on the marketing of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, visit fht.org.uk/IT-139news-CAP-guidance

Scientists win Nobel Prize for touch research Last October, David Julius of the University of California, San Francisco, and Ardem Patapoutian of the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, California, were awarded the 2021 Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology for their research into identifying sensors on nerve cells that detect heat, cold and pressure. According to an article published in ScienceNews, ‘the

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laureates discovered proteins called receptors that turn the burning heat from chili peppers or a hot stove, menthol’s cooling sensation or the pressure from a hug into nerve signals that can be sent to the brain. Those proteins are crucial to the sense of touch and for feeling pain.’ n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-139-news-touch

Winter 2022

News Driving forward inclusivity in swimming According to research from Sport England, 95% of black adults and 80% of black children in England either can’t or don’t swim. This is closely followed by Asian adults and children, with 93% and 79% who can’t or don’t swim, respectively. In an article published in Health Club Management (healthclubmanagement. co.uk), Danielle Obe, Chair of the Black Swimming Association, highlighted further alarming statistics, including that of the 10% of athletes funded by UK Sport who were of Asian, Black and mixed heritage, only 1% were black, while among the aquatic workforce, only 3% of lifeguards, 3% of swimming volunteers and 2% of swimming coaches are of African, Caribbean and Asian heritage. Further still, Obe states that there is no representation at all at senior leadership or board level. Obe told Health Club Management, ‘We can’t drive forward inclusion and diversity in acquatics without first tackling inherent systemic and institutional inequalities – we need to address the economic and

social disparities between ethnic groups in the acquatics sector in the UK, which have led to these disproportionately low participation rates within African, Caribbean and Asian communities. ‘Established in 2020, the Black Swimming Association [thebsa.co.uk] began with a single commitment – to be the bridge between the acquatics sector and these disenfranchised communities. This isn’t a simple boardroom activity or quick fix, neither is it a one-size-fitsall approach, the sector must make a systematic, long-term and integrated approach to change. This begins with community engagement, research and collaboration to build trust, accountability and most importantly, build bridges into these disengaged communities the sector wishes to attract’. For more information about the Black Swimming Association, visit thebsa.co.uk n To read the full article published by Health Club Management, visit fht.org.uk/ IT-139-news-swimming

in brief Children of overweight mothers at higher risk of bowel cancer An American study recently published in Gut suggests that people whose mothers were overweight or obese when pregnant are at a higher risk of developing bowel cancer later in life. The research team commented, ‘Given population trends in maternal obesity, which has multiplied in prevalence by nearly six since the 1960s, we may see a growing burden of early-onset [bowel cancer] for decades to come’. n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-139news-cancer

COVID changes beauty trends According to Mintel, the COVID-19 pandemic has transformed the beauty industry and accelerated several existing consumer trends. These include ‘skinimalism’ – where shrinking budgets and more eco-conscious consumers are simplifying their beauty routines and buying brands that promote transparency, a minimalist approach and green credentials. Product houses are said to be tapping into this by promoting multifunctional products that, for example, act as both a lip balm and gloss. n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-139news-mintel

Study reveals link between air pollution and mental health

Exhibition shows off process of making homegrown clothes From 1 October to 18 December 2021, the Homegrown/Homespun Exhibition took place at the Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing the work of a regenerative fashion project spearheaded by designer Patrick Grant, his social enterprise, Community Clothing, and North West England Fibreshed. Throughout the spring and summer of 2021, the collaboratie turned unused land in Blackburn, Lancashire, into a field of flax and woad. The flax was then harvested, retted and spun into thread, which was woven live at the museum during the Winter 2022

British Textile Biennial 2021, to create the first Homegrown/Homespun garment for Patrick Grant’s Community Clothing line. Grant told the BBC, ‘In this country we used to be completely self-sufficient in clothing. Most clothes were linen or wool, and flax was grown all across the UK. In fact, in the 16th Century, it was law that every landowner had to dedicate a portion of their land to growing flax. We [the Homegrown/Homespun collaborative] want to see if it's possible to rebuild the UK flax and linen industry’. n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-139-newshomegrown

A study recently published in British Journal of Psychiatry indicates that exposure to traffic-related air pollution is associated with an increased use of mental health services among people recently diagnosed with psychotic and mood disorders such as schizophrenia and depression. Dr Ioannis Bakolis, Senior Lecturer in Biostatistics and Epidemiology at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, and lead author of the study, said, ‘There is already evidence linking air pollution to the incidence of mental disorders, but our novel findings suggest that air pollution could also play a role in the severity of mental disorders for people with pre-existing mental health conditions.’ n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-139news-pollution

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Things for Winter

Things for Winter ‘When snow falls, nature listens’ – Antionette van Kleeff

Star gazing. As the nights are longer, why not wrap up warm and see if you can spot some star constellations with family or friends? Rather than splash out on a new book or search online, you could even support your local library by requesting or taking out a book on the topic.

Dare to take a dip… In the Winter 2021 issue of International Therapist, we took a look at the physical and mental wellbeing benefits of immersing yourself in cold water and shared stories from FHT members who are regular wild swimmers. If you’re brave enough to give it a go this winter, you’ll find more information and top tips at fht.org.uk/IT-135-swimming

Spice up your refreshments. If you offer you clients a drink at the end of their treatment session, why not provide them with a herbal tea that contains a warming spice, such as lemon and ginger or apple and cinnamon?

Share the warmth with someone less fortunate. Winter is a beautiful season but a very difficult time for those who are homeless. Offer a blanket, warm coat or hot drink to someone homeless in your area or get involved with a charity such as Crisis (crisis.org.uk) - even if you missed the opportunity to volunteer with them for Christmas 2021, they still run lots of initiatives to support the homeless all year round.

Feeling creative? Search online or YouTube for some simple instructions on how to make a warming lavender, wheat or rice bag – perfect to ease any minor aches and pains and also great for popping in coat pockets to keep your hands warm when you’re out for a walk or star gazing!

Heat up your treatment menu. Winter is a perfect time to offer your clients a warming therapy! If you don’t already have a ‘hot’ treatment on your menu, why not make this one of your business objectives for 2022? There are lots to choose from including hot stone massage, Lava Shell massage, Shirodhara, candle massage, warm bamboo massage and Thai herbal compresses. (Remember: before booking, check you have any relevant prerequisite qualifications and that the FHT will accept the course for membership and insurance purposes.)

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Winter 2022

Nutrition

Eating

seasonally

lthough we’re in the midst of Veganuary, a plant-focused eating pattern doesn’t need to mean adopting a vegan or vegetarian diet. Rather, it’s about placing emphasis on eating more plant foods and fewer animal products. From an environmental point of view, even just a 30% shift towards more plants on our plates will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, and water and energy use. Little changes can have a big impact. Let’s look to some of the delicious local produce on offer throughout the British winter such as apples, aubergines, beetroot, cabbages, cauliflower, carrots, leeks, mushrooms, onions, parsnips, pears, potatoes and swedes. Many of these are perennial, but the star of the show really has to be the glut of often underrated root vegetables available to us at this time of year.

ROOT VEGETABLES While they might not be the most glamorous of produce, root vegetables are familiar, comforting and highly nutritious. They pack in essential minerals such as potassium and manganese, as well as vitamins A and C. Sadly though, vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and

swedes are often misinterpreted and avoided due to their higher carbohydrate content. However, carbohydrates in the form of fibre and starch that are found in whole, natural fruits and vegetables shouldn’t be feared. In fact, these complex carbohydrates are crucial for gut health. This is because dietary fibre and resistant starch can’t be digested in the small intestine. Instead, they pass intact through to the large intestine where they are fermented by the bacteria that live in the gut. By-products of this fermentation process are short-chain fatty acids, and these beneficial compounds help to maintain the lining of the gut and provide the cells that line the colon with a food source. On top of this, these bacteria (often referred to as the gut microbiota) protect us from harmful pathogens that cause sickness, train the immune system in our early years, and contribute to many of our metabolic functions. Although we don’t yet have a clear picture of all of the mechanisms the trillions of microbes living in our gut are involved in, one thing we do know is that microbial diversity in the gut is associated with positive health outcomes. One way we can increase our microbial diversity is by eating a diverse range of plant foods.

Claire Hunter, MFHT, is a nutritional therapy practitioner. Since qualifying in 2020, she has been helping people living on plant-based diets to optimise their nutrition and maximise their gut health. gonutsaboutnutrition.com

Winter 2022

WARMING ROOT VEGETABLE SOUP (SERVES 4, GENEROUSLY)

INGREDIENTS n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

2 leeks 2 carrots 2 stalks of celery 2 medium potatoes 1 parsnip 1 swede 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 cloves of garlic, crushed ½ tbsp freshly grated ginger ½ tbsp turmeric powder 1 tsp cumin powder 1 tsp ground coriander seed ½ tsp red chilli flakes 1.5 litres of vegetable stock Salt and pepper To garnish – fresh coriander, chopped

METHOD 1. Wash, peel, trim, and dice the vegetables into roughly 1-inch cubes. 2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan and gently fry the leeks, carrots and celery for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften. 3. Add in the crushed garlic, grated ginger and other spices, and cook for a further 2 minutes, before adding the remaining vegetables and stock. 4. Cover the pot and leave to simmer for 20-25 minutes until all the vegetables are tender. 5. Remove the soup from the heat and leave to cool for ten minutes before transferring to a food processor and blending (you may need to work in batches). Alternatively, an immersion blender will do the job.* 6. Season to taste and serve topped with the chopped coriander alongside some crusty bread. *If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can omit the blending step, or alternatively, blend half of the mixture and then combine back together. T International therapist 11

Have your say

Viewpoint Making the most of World Reflexology Week This year I decided to promote World Reflexology Week throughout the whole of September. I downloaded the FHT’s promotional material and every few days throughout the month, I posted different information on my business Facebook page, including an introduction to reflexology, the history of reflexology, what to expect during a treatment, how reflexology can help, and links to the research summaries shared on FHT’s blog. Throughout the month, I also sold prize draw tickets for the opportunity to win a reflexology treatment, with the winner announced at the end of September on social media. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, I managed to raise £140 for Alzheimer’s Society. I was overwhelmed by the response to my posts, which gained me lots of new clients, and existing clients who regularly have a massage treatment also booked in to try reflexology. As well as promoting reflexology to the general public, World Reflexology Week prompted me to re-read Eunice Ingham’s Stories the Feet Can Tell Thru Reflexology and Stories the Feet Have Told Thru Reflexology and interestingly, I got so much more from reading these books the second time around. September 2021 really was all about treating the feet! n Sharon Berry, FFHT

Inclusivity: keeping the conversation going I’ve just opened the recent issue of International Therapist magazine and I wanted to share some thoughts after reading the Editor’s letter. Your inclusion of transgender people in such a matter-of-fact but caring way in your letter is beautiful in its warmth and acceptance. You assume and invite a level of understanding and empathy which is perfectly pitched and which I found very touching. The small things (electrolysis sessions for instance) are often the big things. I have a lot of conversations with friends and colleagues around inclusion, and also with my son who, at 24, has seen some close friends struggle with not being accepted in their gender choices; usually by their parents, not their peers, who are often more understanding. One online resource I have found really interesting is Safe On My Table--Practitioners (facebook.com/groups/1487302727986635) – a Facebook group for therapists in America. The mission of #SafeOnMyTable is to connect transgender and non-binary people with safe and affirming therapeutic bodywork practitioners who are educated about their specific healthcare related needs. The group, which has over 1,500 members, share information about best practices, protocols, advocacy and research. As an FHT accredited Baby Massage Instructor, I also like to think about what I’m already doing in terms of my own courses and treatments, and how I can help to raise awareness among the parents and students I come into contact with. For instance, if the conversation turns to ‘fears’ for their children when they grow up, which can crop up in baby massage classes, this is a good opportunity

to have a balanced and neutral conversation within the group about gender identity. I also think experiences directly told to us by people from the transgender community are probably the most valuable way of educating ourselves. I know there is a lot of ground still to cover, but I think that keeping the conversation going and raising awareness where we can is the way forward. n Ingrid Perrin, MFHT Beauty Beauty

SUPPORTING

ATION TRANSFORM Autumn 2021

38 International

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, MFHT, Rani McMurran electrolysis talks about her gender work with trans to surgery. patients prior

been lthough I have ysis practicing electrol my for over 30 years, into actual journey

. to the patient practitioner closest to me often referred New clients are (GIC) Identity Clinic But from the Gender through the BIAE. nt or find my details also plays a significa ‘word of mouth’ is nity der commu part - the transgen quickly so word spreads very close knit, provider across a service when they come nal care and exceptio d who has delivere d to travel are also prepare treatment. They onal. professi the right far and wide for

providing clinical to electrolysis services 2004. didn’t begin until NHS England working experience of My very first patients came with transgender local an advert in my from placing electrolysis as ting highligh magazine, hair change ent method of Preparing for l is a prerequisite the only perman ed hair. Genital hair remova (MtF) removal for unwant a male to female contacted by to surgery for Soon after I was male (FtM) genital who was in the and female to patients. transgender patient for transgender oning and looking reconstruction to process of transiti required in order l. Electrolysis is for beard remova fund the different y for skin privatel to prepare the She had chosen procedures, which as ysis treatment g sequences of surgical no her own electrol with her to patient accordin to her work left vary from patient who commitment ion for NHS needs. MtF patients applicat clinical an their to of pursue time to her facial opt for the creation I had completed have chosen to funding. Once usually require happy to will be I’d if cavity nal asked m a noevagi hair removal she ning, the scrotum, perineu stage of transitio hair removal on ations consider her next prior shaft. Complic hair reduction and the penile has which required hair-bearing tissue uctive surgery can arise if the hair. g to genital reconstr ently cleared of to be a game changin not been perman within (GRS). This was ado, I in hair growing Without much This can result the proposal for me. positive cavity and around to make a very the neovaginal ble impossi decided I wanted this of is virtually the wellbeing opening. As this cause contribution to achieve eratively, it can helping her to to treat post-op feel patient’s life, by of functionality, concern in terms patient. her ultimate goal. cosmesis for the der patient l and acceptable My next transgen les for hair remova received to say she had Treatment timesca based contacted me treatment. patient to patient, for NHS funded can vary from authorisation the whole, if I would be of growth. On know density to on mately She wanted can take approxi my details to her full clearance ing willing to submit that I two years, depend Clinic (GIC) so 18 months to also Gender Identity d ’s brief. Patients red as an approve on the surgeon mber could be conside n time/nu in the r for hair reductio need to factor service provide required and their to GRS. I did exactly of appointments is treatment prior d As far as the latter officially approve pain threshold. that and became g my patients may require in 2004, extendin concerned, some help relieve and registered etic creams to to include this nt. topical anaesth electrolysis services der ort during treatme nt for transgen intermittent discomf hair in specialist treatme the ‘kill’ rate of pre-GRS stage. MtF patients, In the in faster patients is achieved much a strict and the gential area inhibiting The NHS has for on testosterone vetting process if the patient is ily, hair comprehensive because, ordinar oners who offer therapy. This is more and registering practiti which s, thicker much nt to patient genital hair is elsewhere of reduction treatme hairs growing e of membership persistent than includes evidenc tion e and Associa on the body. the British Institut permanent the (BIAE). Once My goal is to achieve months before of Electrolysis for three l has been given clearance at least to five funding approva then is based on four the patient can surgery, which taking a hair removal, with each cycle ed provider from growth cycles, register hair , the a choose in their In an ideal scenario ted practitioners 10 to 13 weeks. growth  a list of accredi e of active hair ’s GIC will send first full clearanc ed area or the patient directly to a register letter of referral t 39 International

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Autumn 2021

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Winter 2022

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Winter 2022

International therapist 13

Survey

Softly softly

ost people affected by coronavirus (COVID-19) have mild to moderate symptoms and recover relatively quickly. However, some people experience ongoing symptoms that can last for four weeks or longer. These symptoms, often referred to as ‘long COVID’ can be highly variable and wide-ranging and are not limited to people who were seriously ill or hospitalized with coronavirus.

WHAT IS LONG COVID? Interestingly, there is no universally agreed definition of the term ‘long COVID’. ‘Acute COVID-19’ is a term used by health professionals to typically describe the initial signs and symptoms that last up to four weeks. (‘Acute’ refers to the first signs of infection, rather than the severity of the illness.) If symptoms continue after four weeks, then the following two terms are typically used, both of which may also be referred to by the health authorities, 14 International International therapist therapist 14

As part of a short series of articles on long COVID, we take a look at the latest stats and facts and the results from FHT’s 2021 Long COVID Survey

researchers and media as ‘long COVID’: Ongoing symptomatic COVID-19: signs and symptoms of COVID-19 from four weeks up to 12 weeks. Post-COVID-19 syndrome: signs and symptoms which develop during or after an infection that is consistent with COVID-19, continue for more than 12 weeks and are not explained by another diagnosis. (NICE, RCGP and SIGN, 2020)

with self-reported long COVID), followed by shortness of breath (39%), loss of smell (33%) and difficulty concentrating (30%).

According to a recent statistical bulletin published by the Office of National Statistics (ONS, 2021), as of 2 October 2021, an estimated 1.2 million people living in private households in the UK were experiencing self-reported long COVID (symptoms persisting for more than four weeks after the first suspected COVID-19 infection, that were not explained by something else). The bulletin also highlighted that:

n As a proportion of the UK population, prevalence of self-reported long COVID remained greatest in people aged 35 to 69 years; females; people living in more deprived areas; those working in health or social care; and those with another activitylimiting health condition or disability. (ONS, 2021),

n Fatigue was the most common symptom reported as part of individuals' experience of long COVID (55% of those

n More than two-thirds (65%) of those with self-reported long COVID said that their symptoms adversely affected their dayto-day activities, with 19% reporting that their ability to undertake their day-to-day activities had been ‘limited a lot’.

As therapists, it is important to note that anyone who thinks they may have symptoms of long COVID are strongly advised to speak to their GP, who may suggest different tests to find out more about their symptoms and to rule out other Winter 2022 2922

Survey

underlying causes. (NHS England and NHS Improvement, 2021; NHS, 2021). While it is difficult to say how long a person’s long COVID symptoms will last, current evidence suggests that in most cases, symptoms will improve over time (NHS infom, 2021).

MEMBERS’ EXPERIENCES OF LONG COVID In October 2021, we launched a short survey to gain some insight into our members’ personal and professional experiences of long COVID. For the purposes of the survey, we defined long COVID as ‘signs and symptoms that develop during or following an infection consistent with COVID-19, which continue for more than 12 weeks and are not explained by an alternative diagnosis’ (NHS England and NHS Improvement, 2021; NHS 2021). We would like to say thank you to the 345 members and other therapists who took part in the survey, the key findings of which are outlined below.

ABOUT OUR SURVEY RESPONDENTS Of those who completed or partially completed the survey: n 88% identify as female, 10% as male and 2% as non-binary/prefer not to say n 89% are self-employed (other statuses included students, employees, volunteers and employers) n 83% live in England, 5% in Wales, 5% in Scotland, 5% in Northern Ireland, 2% Republic of Ireland or Overseas. The majority of those who responded are experienced therapists, with 43% practising for 16 or more years, 20% practising between 11 to 15 years and a further 16% practising between six and 10 years. Seventeen percent (60) have personally been affected by long COVID, with the most common self-reported symptom being fatigue/tiredness (affecting 78%), followed by a change in sense of taste or smell (60%), problems with memory and concentration or ‘brain fog’ (52%), headaches (52%), shortness of breath (50%), join pain (48%) and muscular/ soft tissue aches and pains (43%).

Winter Winter 2022 2022

CLIENTS' EXPERIENCES OF LONG COVID Based on the survey results, 147 respondents (43%) reported that they have supported clients with long COVID, while 107 (31%) reported that they have not supported clients with long COVID. This leaves 91 respondents (26%) who either chose not to comment or dropped out of the survey by this stage. Of those respondents who indicated they have supported clients with long COVID and who went on to complete further questions in the survey: n 90% reported that their clients had spoken to their doctor about their long COVID symptoms; n 38% indicated their clients were receiving conventional care (eg. from their doctor) alongside therapeutic support, 30% indicated their clients were not receiving conventional care alongside therapeutic

support, and 32% indicated their clients were a mixture of the two. n 49% of respondents said their clients had commented that they’d tried conventional care but felt it didn’t improve their symptoms, 40% of clients commented they had struggled to access support from their GP/ the NHS, 38% felt therapeutic intervention would be more appropriate, and 10% didn’t like to put pressure on the NHS system. In terms of how respondents supported their clients with symptoms of long COVID, 84% reported doing this ‘in person’, 13% over the phone, 13% via a video communication platform, 8% via email, 8% using distance healing/reiki and 4% via post, for example, sending clients aromasticks or other therapeutic products. The most commonly used treatments to help support clients manage or improve their long COVID symptoms

COMMON SYMPTOMS OF LONG COVID The most commonly reported symptoms include: Respiratory symptoms • Breathlessness • Cough Cardiovascular symptoms (heart and circulation) • Chest tightness • Chest pain • Palpitations General symptoms • Fatigue • Fever • Pain Neurological symptoms • Cognitive impairment (‘brain fog’, loss of concentration, or memory issues) • Headache • Sleep disturbance • Peripheral neuropathy symptoms (pins and needles, and numbness) • Dizziness • Delirium (in older people) • Mobility impairment • Visual disturbance

Gastrointestinal symptoms • Abdominal pain • Nausea • Diarrhoea • Weight loss and reduced appetite Musculoskeletal symptoms • Joint pain • Muscle pain Psychological/psychiatric symptoms • Symptoms of depression • Symptoms of anxiety • Symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder Ear, nose and throat symptoms • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) • Earache • Sore throat • Dizziness • Loss of taste, smell or both Dermatological symptoms • Skin rashes • Hair loss

(NICE, RCGP and SIGN, 2020)

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Survey

n Reducing the length of treatments, going at a slower pace and even taking short breaks. n Additional pillows and bolsters to support the client and enhance comfort. were reflexology (52%), Swedish or body massage (30%), aromatherapy (28%), reiki (22%), remedial massage (19%), sports massage (17%), healing (24%), Indian head massage (24%), myofascial release (12%) and mindfulness (4%). Clients’ self-reported symptoms and improvements Below is a table outlining a) some common symptoms associated with long COVID, as worded in the FHT survey b) what signs and symptoms clients reported they were experiencing and c) which symptoms clients felt their therapy treatments had improved. Adverse or unusual responses to treatment When asked, ‘Did any of your clients with long COVID experience any contra-actions or unusual responses to your treatments?’, 88% of respondents reported ‘no’ and 12% reported ‘yes’. Where further information was provided, the responses included: the client feeling more tired or symptoms worsening for a day or two after treatment but then much improved after; a change in

colour in the urine; feeling slightly sick or faint; the feet jerking or twitching when treated; and heightened emotional release (for example, crying). One respondent commented that, ‘My client had recurrences of purpling on the toe after a couple of treatments (has had probably ten treatments now, weekly). But after discussion with doctors at a hospital appointment for overall long COVID symptoms, they concluded that it was highly unlikely to be related to the massage treatment’. Adapting treatments for clients with long COVID In the survey, we asked members if they adapted their treatments when supporting clients with long COVID. Sixty said that they had made adaptations, including: n A change of position - treating clients in a seated or supine position rather than prone, to assist their breathing and make them feel generally more comfortable. n More gentle treatments, including lighter techniques, reducing pressure, avoiding sensitive areas.

n A number of respondents mentioned using reflexology instead of other treatments, perhaps to avoid physically working/applying pressure to larger areas of the body. n More communication than usual was also key – from regularly ‘checking in’ with clients, to spending much longer listening, as clients needed to talk more. Other adaptations included selecting products to use during the treatment or in the treatment area, such as essential oils, to assist breathing and promote relaxation. Self-care techniques for clients A total of 115 respondents reported that they had provided their clients with self-care techniques to help them manage or improve their long COVID symptoms. Of these, 17 provided the techniques instead of handson treatments, while the other 98 provided techniques to be used alongside (in between) treatments. The most popular selfcare techniques shared with clients were:

A Symptom of long COVID

B Percentage of clients experiencing the symptom

C Percentage of clients who felt treatment improved the symptom

Extreme tiredness (fatigue) Depression or low mood Stress or anxiety Muscular/ soft tissue aches & pains Difficulty sleeping/ insomnia Problems with memory/ concentration (‘brain fog’) Shortness of breath Joint pain Headaches Change to sense of smell or taste (anosmia) Dizziness Chest pain or tightness Heart palpitations Pins and needles Cough Tinnitus, earaches Feeling sick, diarrhoea, stomach upsets Loss of appetite/ weight loss Rashes/ dry skin / skin problems

92% 68% 68% 66% 65% 63% 56% 52% 48% 42% 36% 32% 26% 25% 22% 20% 19% 16% 11%

75% 56% 60% 55% 56% 33% 30% 39% 36% 12% 16% 21% 12% 15% 8% 12% 10% 5% 6%

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Survey

n Meditation/ mindfulness/ visualization/ relaxation techniques (51 respondents) n Gentle, graded exercises and stretches, including yoga and tai chi practices (43) n Breath work/ breathing exercises (40) n General guidance and advice around diet and nutrition (31) n Essential oil preparations, including aromasticks (28) n Working different reflex (reflexology) points (18) n Self-massage/ trigger point work (13) n Walking/ being outdoors/ fresh air (10) n Advice on staying hydrated (10) n Asking clients to rest when needed/ to listen to their body (9) n Journaling and bench marking progress in writing (5) n Therapy-specific self-care techniques, eg. manual lymphatic draining, emotional freedom technique (5) n Bach/ flower remedies (4) n Salt products, including bath salts and salt pipes (4) Other self-care techniques provided or suggested included listening to relaxing music, the application of hot and cold products, hypnotherapy techniques and Chinese medicine. Fifty-two percent of respondents indicated that the self-care techniques helped to improve their clients’ symptoms, 32% indicated these helped some clients but not all, and 16% indicated self-care techniques did not help their clients.

SUPPORTING CLIENTS WITH LONG COVID The results of FHT’s survey suggest that certain therapies and self-care techniques may be of benefit to clients experiencing symptoms of long COVID. This is very encouraging, particularly when we consider that many of these symptoms – including fatigue, stress and anxiety, and muscular aches and pains – can be difficult to treat effectively with conventional medicine (sometimes referred to as ‘effectiveness gaps’). It is also important to bear in mind that, where appropriate, supporting clients with mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms with complementary and other therapies could also help to take pressure off the NHS, which needs to prioritise clients with acute illnesses. However, it is important to note that Winter Winter 2022 2022

these survey results do not constitute robust ‘evidence’ and although many long COVID symptoms are typical of what is seen in day-to-day therapy practice, the medical and scientific communities still have much to learn about long COVID, the full impact of the virus on long-term health, and the successful management of long COVID symptoms. This is an everevolving situation, with new data and new variants of the virus regularly coming to the fore. When it comes to supporting clients with symptoms of long COVID, there are no black and white answers. As with any condition, every client’s experience is unique. Some people may experience severe or debilitating symptoms that impact their daily lives and quality of life, others may have more mild and ‘irritating’ symptoms. Some will see their symptoms wax and wane, overlap and change over time, others will wake up one morning and notice their symptoms have gone. Some may have pre-existing health conditions as well as long COVID symptoms. Others will be receiving ongoing medical care and assessment. And some may think they have long COVID symptoms, when in fact there is another underlying cause (which is why anyone who thinks they have symptoms of long COVID should be encouraged to see their doctor). What is key is that any therapist looking to support a client with symptoms of long COVID follows the principles of best practice including: n First, do no harm. If in doubt, or you simply feel uncomfortable about treating someone, do not treat them. n If you have any cause for concern about a client’s symptoms, refer them on to their GP or another healthcare professional. n If a client is receiving medical care for their long COVID symptoms, ask them to speak to their GP/ health care provider about having treatment before going ahead. n Carry out a full and detailed consultation, before every treatment, to help you determine if there are any red flags or health changes that may make treatment inappropriate. The information they provide you will also help you to adapt your treatments accordingly.

n If, after a full assessment, you and your client are comfortable to go ahead with a treatment: 1 A common phrase used by many therapists is ‘less is more’. Start very gently and take a graded approach (eg. provide shorter treatments with less pressure or exercises than usual to see how your client responds). 2 Adapt your treatments to suit their current needs at that given point in time and to ensure their comfort. 3 Monitor your clients closely throughout the treatment and contact them in the days immediately after for feedback about how they are feeling. Do not go ahead with any further treatments if they raise anything that concerns you and where necessary, advise them to see their GP. 4 Be prepared to spend a little extra time listening to clients with long COVID and validating their symptoms and concerns. 5 Keep detailed records about their treatments and treatment outcomes. Remember you can always offer self-care advice or hands-off treatments and support to clients who you are concerned about physically treating or who are particularly sensitive to touch. T

FURTHER READING On page 48, you will find information about two small studies currently being conducted into an aromatherapy and tapping protocol for anosmia, and Bowen therapy for long COVID symptoms. Susan Harrison (powertouchtherapy.co.uk), an advanced clinical massage therapist and trainer/ programme coordinator for Jing, has written an excellent article, titled ‘Working with the long COVID client: a massage therapist’s perspective’, published in CoKinetic Journal (July 2021, Issue 89, available at powertouchtherapy. co.uk/2021/12/13/treating-the-longcovid-client/

International therapist therapist 17 17 International

Support

Here for you On these pages, we highlight some of FHT’s activities that aim to get you and your therapies the recognition they deserve. FHT’s CEO, Monica Price, meets members and industry stakeholders at Professional Beauty Show and Awards Ceremony Professional Beauty is one of the UK's premier exhibitions and an event attended by lots of FHT members working in the beauty, aesthetics, spa and wellbeing sectors. FHT’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Monica Price, was delighted to attend both the exhibition and the prestigious Professional Beauty Awards Ceremony in London last October, where she had the opportunity to meet and network with FHT members, key stakeholders in the industry, and to promote the work of the FHT. She particularly enjoyed meeting longstanding FHT member, Shirley O'Donoghue, who is a crystal therapy expert, author

and Principle of Lucis College. Shirley commented, ‘The Lucis College stand at Professional Beauty Exhibition in October 2021 was busier than we have ever known before. We were having trouble with our card readers and someone came to our rescue, helping us to get it back online. It was FHT’s new CEO, Monica, who kindly helped us out! ‘We were so busy, we only had time to have a few words with Monica, but from that short meeting I felt privileged to be part of FHT. Monica’s vision for FHT’s future direction is forward thinking but more importantly, I feel she has a clear understanding of what it’s been like for therapists working at grassroots,

FHT members win 6 trophies at The NMC 2021

especially in the challenging times that we have all experienced over the last two years. She also has great enthusiasm to support and raise awareness of complementary and beauty therapies, so that our industry can again thrive and continue to grow in the public’s awareness’. Monica said, ‘It was my absolute pleasure to meet Shirley, who is both a long-standing member and FHT accredited course provider. She was very busy and surrounded by attendees, and I was delighted to see FHT’s marketing collateral all around her stand, promoting the work that we do. Shirley is a very inspiring member, who works tirelessly with her clients to help them lead a healthier lifestyle’.

The FHT was proud to once again sponsor and take part in the judging of The National Massage Championship (NMC) held at Olympia Beauty in October 2021, where four of our members came away with no less than six trophies! Now in its third year, the NMC saw over 50 qualified massage therapists and bodyworkers form around the world showcase their practical massage skills across six different categories. A huge congratulations to the following FHT members for gaining recognition for their excellent work and professionalism: FHT members Csenge (far left), Ionela (second left) and Slav (fourth from left) at the NMC 2021

18 International therapist

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Support

FHT IN THE MEDIA

FHT regularly contributes expert advice and information to the press and other media, to help promote you and the therapies you offer, and to reinforce the importance of best practice. Recent highlights include: FOR PROFESSIONAL COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE PRACTITIONERS

TALKRADIO FHT’s Chief Executive Officer, Monica Price, is a nutritional therapist and popular go-to expert for many local and national TV and radio stations. Among just a handful of media appearances in recent months, she enjoyed joining presenter Claudia Liza on talkRADIO on 3 December to talk about healthy eating during the colder months. Keep an eye for future media appearances on FHT’s social media channels. The UK’s top holistic wellness magazine HOLISTIC HEALTH HERO DECEMBER 2021

Tongue scraping is a traditional part of ayurvedic self-care and a great way to improve dental health. In fact, a study from The Journal of Periodontology has shown that a tongue scraper is 30 percent more effective at removing debris than a toothbrush, as brushing will loosen and move particles around, but probably won’t get rid of the bacteria. To fully reap the benefits, ayurvedic practitioner and co-founder of Escapada Retreats, Maeve O’Sullivan (escapadaretreat.com), recommends scraping your tongue once a day as part of your normal morning cleansing routine when you brush your teeth. Our go-to is My Tongue Cleaner from Urban Veda (£12, urbanveda.com).

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NATURAL notebook Herbal Medicine ABC Mani Norland, principal at The School of Health (schoolofhealth.com), says: B is for Burdock

HOW TO ACTIVATE YOUR INTUITION

Burdock is a wonderful big-leaved plant (dock means big leaf ), and its burs are the basis of Velcro. It’s also invaluable when working with the liver and skin. It’s a bitter tonic that supports the liver and gallbladder, increasing appetite and enhancing digestion. It’s highly beneficial for dry, scaly skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis thanks to its cooling and soothing properties. Collect the root after the first-year cycle (the plant is biennial).

SEE PAGE 42

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BRING the JOY

n Csenge Kerekes 2nd place: Freestyle Massage category 3rd place: Swedish/ Deep Tissue category n Tara Lee Oakley 2nd place: Swedish/Deep Tissue category (joint winner with Gabriel Ionut Lihoaca) n Ionela Eugenia Dogaru 3rd place: Freestyle Massage category Speaking about taking part and winning his awards, Slav told the FHT,‘The UK NMC championship is one of the toughest, not only

Winter 2022

creativity

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ST RO NGER

SPECIAL:

Understanding autoimmune disorders

The Federation of Holistic

Executive Therapist’s new Healing in Director, Monica Price, how to improve the looks at NHS al and

Menopause

your profession personal resilience, should we face restrictions again in the future…

MARKETING

Futureproof Thriving in a new world

PLUS,

S I write this, therapists are thankfully able to support their clients in person again. Yet, as we approach the winter cases of months, we are all very aware that ise again. In COVID-19 are likely to be on the r trictions are the event that any government res contact reintroduced to those offering close ways you services, let’s take a look at a few usiness… can help to protect you and your b

couch Revenue beyond the

rought For many therapists, the pandemic b n they had with it the stark realisation that whe hey had no to close their treatment room door, t s to you, other source of income. If this applie s offering can you look to expand your busines onal contact? with activities that don’t rely on pers dality that Perhaps you could train in a new mo uch as ffectively online, s can be delivered e aybe you counselling or nutritional therapy. M roducts that make and retail p could learn how to already are an extension of the therapies you h essential offer, such as soy-based candles wit el relaxed or oils or aroma sticks to help people fe uplifted, or to improve sleep.

the latest news registered and research,Getemerging consumer trends, people trafficking, social media, nutritional supplements, books, recipes, inspirational people, our festive gift guide and so much more…

g able to When we went into lockdown, bein s the Selfaccess government funding such a me relied on Employment Income Support Sche sessment therapists having submitted Self-as ly selftax returns to the HMRC. Some new enefit from employed therapists were unable b been up these schemes and those who had but hadn’t and running for a number of years vernment, registered their business with the go ort. were unable to claim financial supp only loyment isn’t the Although self-emp d type ‘selfoption, it’s worth visiting gov.uk an

Staying in touch

is a good If you haven’t done so recently, now refresh their time to reach out to your clients and e unable contact preferences, so that if you ar ow to see them in person again, you kn y you are able to stay in touch in a wa that doesn’t breach data protection regulations. Are they happy to be contacted by phone, text message or email? Would they be happy to , receive calls or newsletters from you so that you can provide them with

ay in touch some self-help tips? Being able to st r clients not only enables you to support you ring their remotely, it goes a long way to ensu loyalty.

Looking after you

g FHT When we carried out a survey askin munity members and the wider therapy com and their how COVID-19 had impacted them d from business, 65% said they had suffere % said increased stress and anxiety and 18 We had it had affected their physical health. ll human almost 2000 respondents. We are a ‘walk the and as a therapist, it’s important to r own talk’ and find ways to look after you when health and wellbeing, and especially pact on you circumstances have just as much im ds as they and your immediate family and frien stacked do your clients. When the odds feel well and against you, try to stay positive, eat lar bedtime, exercise regularly. Sticking to a regu e time you having a warm bath and reducing th to bed spend on devices just before you go hich is so will also help your quality of sleep, w dfulness important to health. Meditation, min tress levels and yoga are also great for keeping s in check. n

The FHT offers a range of

membership benefits to holistic t therapists. For more information visi www.fht.org.uk

information employed’ into the search field for f-employed about what you need to do as a sel

STUDY: REBUILDING AFTER DISASTER - HOW ONE BUSINESS ROSE FROM THEtherapist. ASHES 28

holistictherapistmagazine.com

HOLISTIC THERAPIST 2021

PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY AND HOLISTIC THERAPIST MAGAZINE Monica has also recently appeared in two popular trade magazines. In the December 2021 issue of Professional Beauty magazine, she talked about her plans for expansion, pushing for regulation and why holistic therapy is seeing a resurgence, while in the Autumn issue of Holistic Therapist Magazine, she offered readers some advice on how to improve professional and personal resilience, should the therapy industry face restrictions again in the future.

N AT U R A L FA C T S

n Slav Marinov Winner: Judges Excellence Award 1st place: Freestyle Massage category

STAYING

SHAMANIC

PATCHOULI

A growing number of studies have shown that a connection with nature makes us healthier and happier people, but recent research conducted by Goldsmiths University of London reveals how different natural settings prompt varying emotions. For example, blue environments (the sea, lakes and rivers) are most likely to promote feelings of inspiration and happiness. While woodland settings afford clarity, mountainous landscapes evoke feelings of optimism, and open settings like meadows and fields conjure excitement. “This research also demonstrated that aweinspiring settings like waterfalls were rated as more attractive and novel,” says researcher Anna Stewart. This suggests that if you’re looking for a significant mood boost, it’s best to choose an environment that you don’t get to see or visit very often.

05/11/2021 11:49

FHT

BUSINESS

Dealing with postCOVID anxiety

The Federation of Holistic Therapists (fht.org.uk) explores the health benefits of patchouli In Asia, the patchouli plant has been used throughout history as a traditional medicine, perfume and insect repellent, with the leaves often interspersed in textiles to protect them from moths and other bugs while in transit and storage. In aromatherapy, patchouli oil is considered soothing, balancing and grounding. It can help address stress, anxiety, depression and nervous tension, and calm an overactive mind. Patchouli is also an ideal companion for meditation and similar practices. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and cell-regenerating properties, it’s good for a range of skin complaints, including acne, eczema, sores and scar tissue. It may also be effective against fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Important safety note: never ingest plant essential oils or apply to the skin undiluted.

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NATURAL HEALTH In each issue of Natural Health, the FHT provides a plant profile, highlighting the benefits of a plant typically used in aromatherapy practice and driving readers to the FHT website. In the October, November and December 2021 issues, we covered may chang, ho leaf and patchouli.

because of the fantastic level of contestants but in addition you are judged under the watchful eye of the most skilful, experienced panel in the field. The UK judging team is like ‘who’s who’ in the world of massage. That makes me even more grateful and proud of my achievement. ‘As a massage therapist with many years of experience, I have already built a long list of loyal clients who I know trust and support me. Winning brought the added layer of recognition by the judges and the public, which truly means a lot to me. ‘However, taking part in a competition gives you a super boost, even if you don’t get a place on the podium. The preparation involved is a learning curve and seeing what the other therapists are demonstrating is like a free workshop! Everyone taking part had talent and

showed interesting moves and skills. That’s why I like participating - seeing old friends and making new ones was a big part of the event for me. The atmosphere was very friendly and relaxed, but you can’t help but get butterflies when it’s your turn to show your skills. It’s worth it and I encourage all my colleagues to sign up for the NMC in 2022.’ FHT Vice President, Mary Dalgleish, who was an expert judge at this year’s NMC, said, ‘A huge congratulations to all of those who took part in the competition and especially those who came away with a trophy. It was an honour to be invited once again to represent the FHT as a judge - I witnessed some amazing massage skills and techniques, and even though it was a competition, there was an amazing sense of support and togetherness among the competitors’.

International therapist 19

Q&A

Ask an expert

Q I

had not long qualified when the pandemic hit and I’m now struggling to get my therapy business back off the ground. Can you offer any tips and advice? A: Marie Duggan, founder of Butterfly Touch Therapies (butterflytouchtherapiestraining.com), says: Due to the impact of the pandemic, it’s more important than ever that we share ideas for building up new or existing therapy businesses and promoting the benefits of our services to clients and healthcare organisations. I would like to kick this off with some approaches I have used in the past. In 1998 I set up my business offering massage, Indian head massage and reflexology, and like most newly self-employed therapists, I was short on income but had time to invest in promoting my services. The sort of questions I asked myself back then, which apply equally well today, are: n Does your marketing material need an update? What does your brochure say about you and your services? Are all your professional memberships included, along with your insurance status? This demonstrates your professionalism. If you are listed on a professional register, add the link for this, too.

care, you may be able to volunteer your services in return for guidance, training and experience at a hospital or hospice. I created a Clinical Practice Pathway where therapists can do exactly that, helping them to gain confidence and experience under a clinical or complementary therapy lead. n Do you have a peer or mentor you can bounce ideas off? If not, why not join a local business club? You will meet people from all kinds of business with experiences and connections to share – this can often lead into an avenue of work you hadn’t previously thought to explore. n How do you sell your business? Research the different pathways on how you can access and connect with your chosen field and how to approach organisations. Explore each option carefully and note the head of departments and contact details. n Create professional documents for organisations you’d like to approach, such as: a) A one-page document with your name, business details, qualifications, insurance, and professional status, with links to where that can be verified, as well as a professional code of conduct. b) Write covering letters outlining how your therapies and services will bring value to their organisation and workforce. c) Package the above with your literature as an introduction to your services. n Brainstorm where you can promote what

n Have you thought of expressing your

vision? Create a vision statement and put it out there. It should embody who and what you represent and will resonate with the clients right for you. n Who is your client base? Are you wishing to branch out into other fields? Write down who you want to attract and what health areas you would like to work in. n Have you trained sufficiently? If you require further knowledge in certain areas, research appropriate training and how to gain experience in that field. For example, if you are interested in working in cancer 20 International therapist

you do at low cost. At the beginning of my business, I offered taster sessions of Indian head massage and reflexology once a month at my local Body Shop and Holland & Barrett. This was in effect only four hours of my time, once a month on a Saturday, which was prime time for customers. I was not selling any products, only my services, which complemented both of these businesses. I contacted local radio stations and papers to let them know I was offering ‘free’ taster sessions. I did this for approximately a year and made some amazing lifelong clients this way. n Demonstrations and talks are always a great way to meet local people and get your

business known. You could offer to do this at healthcare events, for example, that are promoting mental health, women’s health or cancer care, or at Women’s Institute group meetings. Sometimes there may be a small fee involved, other times not, but I usually ended up with at least one new client from these sorts of events. I hope you find some of these suggestions useful. It is a lot of hard work starting from scratch and I appreciate there is so much more to be explored, but I have always found that sharing ideas and approaches benefits everyone. A: Dawn Morse, founder of Core Elements (coreelements.uk.com), says: Starting your therapy-based business can be both exciting and nerve-racking, as there are many aspects to consider. Here are a few tips to help you move forward… n Think about your business name, images and logo that you want to represent you, as these will be with you for years to come. Do your research and ask family and friends for their opinions on your name and images, as they will offer honest feedback from a consumer’s perspective. You could also share these with your friends on Facebook and do a poll on a couple of proposed business names to see which one is more popular. n Consider the phrasing you will use to describe your therapy services. For instance, if you are a sports therapist, bear in mind that lots of people still think their problem needs to be sports-related to see a therapist who has ‘sport’ in their business title. Aim to provide short and concise explanations of your services where possible. n When you’ve developed your business name, it’s time to develop your logo, which should reflect your name and the industry that you work within. There are many websites that offer a free or reduced-price service, such as tailorbrands.com, freelogoservices.com and logomaker.com, which will enable you to create a basic logo. Winter 2022

n Once you have your business name, logo and a list of your services, it’s time to reach the public and there are many ways that you can do this without breaking the bank. Top tips include: a) A Facebook Business page: When developing this page, complete all the information sections including your location, services and pricing, along with the booking feature. Post regularly about what you do and how you can help others. Use this page to post in local groups about your services and create informational posts to share on your page and in local groups, as people will often respond and re-share these posts. b) Google Business page: These pages are free of charge and will enable you to reach clients on a local level. Google Business pages often rank higher than other businesses when people are searching for therapists in your area.

I've heard that it's not safe to work a pregnant client's shoulders because of a particular acupressure point – is this true?' A: Suzanne Yates, founder of Wellmother (wellmother.org), says: It is true that there is an acupressure point on the top of the trapezius - Gall Bladder 21 (GB21) which is also a trigger point. However, to give ‘advice’ such as ‘do not work the shoulders in pregnancy’ is overly general and unhelpful. Pregnant mothers often experience shoulder tension at all stages of their pregnancy and benefit from shoulder work. GB21 is a powerful point that can be included in a shiatsu or energy-based treatment, or released as a trigger point, providing the therapist is suitably trained, understands its effect and can evaluate its appropriateness. Working the point both ways is very similar, with the therapist using downward pressure for at least 30 seconds – a technique that a therapist is unlikely to carry out ‘accidentally’, unless they’ve had specific training about this acupressure/trigger point.

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Q&A

c) Website: Some businesses solely rely on Facebook and Google for several years without a website. But when time and budget allow, it’s useful to create your own website and to make this your information hub. Many of your clients will look at your website, even if they have found you via a Google search or social media channel, before they book an appointment. Look at sites such as GoDaddy.com or Wix.com to get started. Or you can build a Google website from your Google Business page. d) Social media accounts such as Twitter and Instagram are also useful for reaching a wider audience. If you specialise in sports massage or sports therapy, think about approaching a club that doesn't already have a club therapist. It’s likely that most local football and rugby clubs will have a therapist, however hockey,

GB21 is indicated for releasing neck and shoulder tension, enabling emotional release of anger and frustration, as well as releasing energy from the upper body downwards. It is a point on the Extraordinary Vessels, one of whose roles is to regulate our neuro-endocrine system. For this reason, it is often used to support breastfeeding and aid milk flow by removing blockages. It may also be used to initiate birth, helping the descent of the baby and releasing the placenta. For this reason, sometimes people think that it shouldn’t be used in pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Indeed, several other acupuncture points are sometimes ‘contraindicated’ in early pregnancy, despite there being no evidence that they have any adverse effects. I often include

running, cycling and cricket clubs may not. If they don't have the budget to take on a therapist, you could offer them a workshop on pre-season injury prevention and follow this up with an offer or ongoing discount for club members. For best engagement, make sure it’s a sport you have a genuine passion for, as prospective clients are more likely to connect with someone who’s ‘been there, worn the t-shirt’.

Looking for more top tips on how to grow your business? FHT’s Chief Executive Officer, Monica Price, will be running two seminars this January and February on how to develop your therapy business and build your bookings in 2022. See page 58 for more detail.

these points in my treatments, even sometimes during the first trimester, and sometimes teach my clients to use them themselves. However, it is always important to sense if a point is appropriate. Before I teach a client how to work different points for themselves, I first work these on my client and get them to tune into the effect. They know whether it feels helpful or not, how much pressure feels good and how long to hold it for. In this way, I find connecting with points is a way of supporting a connection with the body, which includes the baby. We need to remember that pressure and trigger points, and any massage technique, can only ever support what the body is naturally trying to do. Sometimes points initiate labour quickly, because that is what the body is trying to do. I am always careful with GB21, if I know that the client has a weakness in her cervix or lack of support in the pelvis, because it can have too strong a descending effect. If you understand how to include points such as GB21 they can add to your treatments. If you don’t, simply be aware of the specific point, but you don’t have to be nervous of working the surrounding area. T

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Picture credit: Suzanne Yates, Shiatsu for Midwives

Thai foot massage

A Thai treat for the feet FHT accredited training provider, Lucy Trend, provides an introduction to Thai foot massage 22 International therapist

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Thai foot massage

hai foot massage (TFM) is a very popular treatment that involves applying pressure and massage to the feet and lower legs, using a therapeutic balm or oil. A specially crafted rosewood stick is also used, to stimulate reflex points on the soles of the feet. Once one leg is finished, it is wrapped in a towel to keep it warm, using a very specific folding technique, while the other leg is worked. Many clients absolutely love this part of the treatment, especially if the towel is fluffy and has been warmed before it is applied. Once both legs are massaged and wrapped, some foot stretches and finishing techniques complete the treatment, which bring even more benefit to the whole experience.

Thai foot massage came about centuries ago to meet the needs of those travelling along the trade routes, such as the famous Silk Road

The origins of TFM Clients are often curious about the origins of the therapy and it is particularly fascinating if you’re interested in culture and travel, as TFM is ubiquitous in Thailand. In some places, especially along the tourist trails, it can seem as though every other place you pass offers foot massage; from temples to street bazaars, you are invited to put your feet up and watch the world go by. Traditionally all forms of massage in Thailand were a spiritual practice, offered for Dāna in temples and hospitals. Dāna is a Pali word that means ‘donation’ and for Thai Buddhists, it also refers to the practise of cultivating generosity. Nowadays, things have changed and beaches and resorts are full of places offering massage aimed at the tourist (for a set price, of course). This is not surprising, as TFM has always been influenced by travel and travellers. Indeed, it came about many centuries ago in response to the needs of those travelling along the trade routes, such as the famous Silk Road, with weary feet in need of care. Travellers and traders would stop at towns and ports along the route and would restore their energy with massage offered by local entrepreneurs who saw a gap in the market. The travellers and locals would share tips and techniques from different lands, and so knowledge migrated from as far afield as Europe, Africa, India, China, Indonesia and Japan. It is believed that using the stick Winter 2022

to press the foot was a technique that originated from Taiwan. And so we can see that throughout history, money has been made from the careful treatment of weary feet! Nowadays, a tourist in Thailand can pay as much for a one-hour foot massage as a Thai person’s working wage for an entire week. Just imagine the wealth of the traders on the trade routes of ancient times - a handsome price would have been paid for services in those thriving marketplaces, too.

Underlying principles of TFM To understand fully how TFM works would take many years of study of traditional Thai medicine, which is not practical or affordable for most students wanting to learn this therapy. However, if they respectfully honour the techniques and perform these just as they were taught, students will see that a lack of in-depth theoretical knowledge is not a challenge. What is important is the loving kindness with which we perform the massage and a respect for the teachers and lineage, no matter how close or far from the ancient roots of this practice. Then, in turn, as you gain experience, you learn much more about the routine. You’ll discover that it can be a relaxing and soothing treatment, or a stimulating and refreshing treatment, which can be both enjoyable and very powerful, resulting in healing on a deep level.

The benefits of TFM TFM is wonderfully adaptable to different situations. It takes place with the client in the supine position and can be performed with the client sitting up or lying down. They can also remain clothed, providing the lower legs are feet are accessible, so it’s great for people who have different abilities and needs. As the techniques are adaptable, therapists can also incorporate these into other routines and treatments. TFM feels pleasantly restorative and some of the many reported benefits include: n Relief from pain in the hips, knees, ankles and feet n Reduced stiffness, improved flexibility and posture n Improved circulation, lymphatic drainage and immunity n Balanced energy flow throughout the body n The promotion of restful sleep and clarity of mind.

Treating clients in the supine position TFM is ideal for people who don’t feel comfortable lying face down for a massage, as the client is face up for their full treatment session. Some feel claustrophobic in the face cradle, or find their sinuses get congested as the lymph clears, or they might feel too vulnerable when lying prone. For those clients who International therapist 23

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Thai foot massage

contraindications for TFM are mostly the same as for any other massage therapy. Here’s are some specific things to be aware of with TFM: Bending the feet out – if you’re not accustomed to the mobilisations used in TFM, you should go gently. If you’re already a Thai trained therapist, for example, in Thai yoga massage, this is less of a concern as you’ll have the relevant experience. Varicose veins - if your client says they have these, ask to see where these are, so you can be certain not to press on the site of the veins.

are wearing a face covering, treatments in the supine position may also feel less restrictive on their breathing. Some clients simply relax back on a comfy pillow and daydream or switch off, while others prefer to be more raised up so that they can take advantage of the opportunity for a chat and even a bit of a heart to heart. I’m sure we’ve all experienced this; what starts as a friendly conversation leads on to the client expressing their worries and concerns and what’s on their mind. In this sense, TFM truly benefits the mind, body and soul. And for those who do want to talk during their treatment, it has a social element too, which is very important to bear in mind for any clients who suffer from loneliness. Very often when clients get a chance to relax, their conversation also turns to holidays and Thailand in particular, naturally! Indeed, it’s an especially popular subject now, with many people chomping at the bit to get abroad again after all the recent COVID-19 travel safety restrictions. And whenever there’s talk of travel there are sure to be funny and interesting stories, which can help build a good client-therapist relationship. Nonetheless it’s important to remember to let the client lead the conversation, allowing for lulls so that they can fall into silence sometimes, too. It’s an important opportunity to switch off and notice the body relaxing and breathing more deeply, becoming aware of the sensations and 24 International therapist

energy flow. Part of the benefits of TFM is that it facilitates a more mindful, embodied state, tuning out the thinking and socialising brain (the prefrontal cortex), creating a space not just for relaxation, but for the body to switch into healing mode and for the energy to balance.

Contraindications and cautions As we all know, contraindications do not come as a set list of conditions, which prevent the person from receiving a particular therapy. With TFM, we can be sensible about these and look at them on a case-by-case basis. It’s also important to consider your own skills, so the more experience you have, the more reliably you can discern when to and when not to perform the therapy. You should always conduct a consultation prior to any treatment and the

First trimester of pregnancy – at our school, we recommend TFM is not given in pregnancy. There are several reasons for this, which we don’t have space to cover in this article. If you are trained in pregnancy massage, you can provide TFM confidently from 37 weeks onwards, if there are no contraindications. In fact, TFM could be good for swollen ankles, but only if it is lymphostatic and not lymphodynamic. Osteoporosis - avoid pressure on the bones and take great care of the joints. Hyper mobility – as for osteoporosis, people with this condition need strengthening, not stretching. They may also have associated syndromes which cause fatigue, so keep within the hour and advise rest after the session if this is the case. As always, be sure to remind the client to let you know how they are feeling throughout the treatment, so you can adapt your technique or pressure to suit. T

Lucy Trend is the director of Shiatsu and Thai Massage Training Scotland (STMTS), which offers a range of courses from beginner to professional level, including FHT accredited courses in Thai Foot Massage, Thai Yoga Massage and Onsite Seated Acupressure Massage. The FHT also recognises STMTS’s Wellmother Pregnancy Massage course, with relevant prerequisites. Lucy originally trained in shiatsu in Montreal, Canada, graduating in 1996. She then trained extensively in Chiang Mai, Northern Thailand, studying traditional Thai massage and herbal medicine with Surin Janpanet, a retired monk who trained in the temple for 12 years. stmts.co.uk

Winter 2022

We're going to have a party!

More details coming soon! We will let you know as soon as we set the date - please keep an eye on our social media channels and your emails! Winter 2022

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FHT Excellence Awards

Congratulations to the winners of our 2021 FHT Excellence Awards! In this article, we share a short insight into their work…

irst launched in 2011, the FHT’s Excellence Awards showcase how therapists are making a difference to people living in their local community, from helping clients to improve their health and wellbeing, to providing excellence in education or supporting other qualified therapists. This year we have added a brand new category to our existing portfolio FHT Inclusive Therapy Business of the Year award - to help bring recognition to the growing number of members whose businesses go the extra mile to embrace diversity and inclusion. Speaking about the FHT Excellence Awards, FHT President, Christopher Byrne, says: ‘Since their launch more than a decade ago, our awards have helped to shine a spotlight on some of the incredible work being carried out by FHT members and have even

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provided a valuable stepping stone onto greater things for many of our deserving winners and finalists. ‘In addition, we hope that our most recently added award categories – FHT Green Therapy Business of the Year in 2020, and FHT Inclusive Therapy Business of the Year in 2021– will help to bring into focus what ‘best practice’ looks like in areas that are of huge importance, not just in our industry, but on a global level. ‘I’d like to say thank you to all of our finalists and everyone who entered this year’s awards. As always, our judges felt privileged to learn about your work and wish you all the best for 2022 – please keep up the great work’. Look out for features in future issues of International Therapist and online, as we share the great work being achieved by our 2021 FHT Excellence Award winners.

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FHT Excellence Awards

FHT COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIST OF THE YEAR Winner: Stephanie Quigley, MFHT Stephanie’s journey as a therapist started in 2007 when she completed a HND in complementary therapy, closely followed by a degree in complementary healthcare. Initially working in private practice, Stephanie took up the role of Patient and Family Support Complementary Therapist at Beatson Cancer Charity, Glasgow, for five years. She is now the Lead Complementary Therapist at Cancer Support Scotland (CSS), where she is responsible for developing the therapy service, training volunteer therapists and delivering treatments to people affected by cancer. When the pandemic meant that those who usually accessed hands-on therapies through CSS no longer could, Stephanie developed a range of free, remotely accessible services, which many still use today. These include a telephone support service; online self-help guides, audio guides and videos; sending out personalised aromatherapy nasal inhalers; and live online mindfulness sessions. More recently, she developed The CSS Training Academy to provide oncology massage training, which helps to fund the charity’s wellbeing services. Speaking about her win, Stephanie says: ‘I’m absolutely delighted to receive an FHT Excellence Award. I’m extremely proud of the work I have been doing with Cancer Support Scotland, supporting the wellbeing of people affected by cancer. I’m overjoyed my passion for complementary therapy and innovative thinking is being celebrated by this award.’ Winter Winter 2022 2022

Highly commended: Malminder Gill, MFHT Malminder is a hypnotherapist, NLP master coach, life-coach, accomplished author and speaker, who regularly features in the media. She was nominated by one of her clients for providing complimentary mental wellbeing support to a women’s abuse charity, as well as a free coronavirus anxiety management programme, available to all on her website. Finalists: Basma Gale, Caroline Purvey, Alexandra Skanderowicz, Angela Vigus

I’m absolutely delighted to receive an FHT Excellence Award. I’m overjoyed my passion for complementary therapy and innovative thinking is being celebrated by this award.’

More online... To hear comments from the judges and to see this year’s winner’s acceptance speeches, visit fht.org.uk/blog and enter the name of the award winner.

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FHT Excellence Awards

FHT BEAUTY THERAPIST OF THE YEAR Winner: Geraldine Flynn, FFHT Based in Northern Ireland, Geraldine has been working in the field of beauty and holistic therapy for more than 20 years, specialising in semipermanent make-up (SPMU). A mum of three, she has worked hard to attain numerous qualifications and awards throughout her career, and trained with some of the best technicians from around the world to continually improve her techniques. She regularly attends industry conferences and has travelled extensively to use and demonstrate her SPMU skills. Each year, Geraldine offers discounted and free treatments to cancer survivors and is currently working on a survey with people affected by hair loss, to gather more information about the effects of alopecia. As she explained in her nomination, ‘semi-permanent make-up is not just used for cosmetic enhancement but can be life changing for those suffering hair loss and going through treatment for cancer’. Going forward, Geraldine has a plans to support regulation in the industry, so that SPMU technicians are accountable to best practices. Speaking about her win, Geraldine says: ‘It is a real honour to receive this award after such a disruptive time to our businesses. Receiving this title will instil confidence to attract new clients and my existing clients will be delighted for me, too. It is a huge compliment and reward for all the hard work.’ Finalists: Alison Day, Nima Shah 28 International International therapist therapist 28

FHT LOCAL GROUP COORDINATOR OF THE YEAR

FHT STUDENT OF THE YEAR

Winner: Jackie Hamilton, MFHT Jackie Hamilton has been Joint Coordinator, with Beverly Chilson, of the Norwich local group since its creation in 2018. The group has gone from strength to strength over the past three years and has excelled throughout the coronavirus pandemic. Jackie was quick to adopt virtual meetings when indoor gatherings were not possible and ensured her group had a varied calendar of events, including baby massage, ear reflexology, marketing and crystals, meaning her attendees could continue their learning, whatever their specialism. Jackie also runs the very interactive FHT Local Support Group Norwich Facebook page, with over 320 members. Here she uploads recordings of Norwich’s virtual meetings, creating an extensive library of videos that are presented by experienced therapists and tutors, which all members are free to explore. Jackie continues to thrive and work hard for her group, creating a connected and inclusive environment, even when therapists were missing the sense of community they had originally enjoyed at physical meetings. Speaking about her win, Jackie says: ‘I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of Beverly and myself. Beverly was working during lockdown as an NHS occupational therapist and is now firmly back in the FHT local group saddle! We know that being a therapist can be lonely and wanted to provide an encouraging space for all therapists.’

Winner: Suzanne Julian, MFHT Already a qualified therapist and former owner of a successful salon, it wasn’t until Suzanne lost a very dear friend to an illness stemming from work-related stress that she recognised she had a gift that should be used to help others find their work/life balance. To enhance her existing skills, Suzanne registered onto Butterfly Touch’s Complementary Therapies in Cancer Care course, but faced her own personal health crisis part-way through the training: she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. Initially putting her training on hold, she decided to resume just a month later, working through each module at her own pace. When nominating Suzanne, her tutor, Marie Duggan, wrote: ‘Although she was going for her cancer treatments during the pandemic and lockdowns, Suzanne also wanted to continue expanding her knowledge and experience so that when she was well again, she could support others going through the same journey. It was my pleasure and honour to give Suzanne her final certificate and nominate her for this award.’ Speaking about her win, Suzanne says: ‘I was delighted just to have been nominated for the award, so I was over the moon to actually win and receive this recognition from the FHT. The award provides a great platform for me to now promote my cancer treatments and help so many after my own experience.’

Finalists: Alison Brown, Janet Cairnie, Sarah Holmes

Finalists: Tracy Butler Simmons, Anya Rae Winter 2022

FHT Excellence Awards

FHT TUTOR OF THE YEAR Winner: Sandy Newbigging Sandy created the Mind Detox Method in 2007, to help others resolve the possible mind-based causes of their physical, emotional and life issues. Since then, he has delivered hundreds of 1-2-1 consultations, authored 12 books, created the Mind Calm and Body Calm meditation techniques, and appeared on three television series, demonstrating the power of his methods. He founded the Mind Detox Academy in 2008, where he has taught practitioners from over 25 countries, as well as the Mind Detox Online Club in 2016, offering weekly webinars, expert interviews, masterclasses and meditations. During the pandemic, Sandy offered extra support to his students and graduates including twice-weekly webinars and a free online masterclass on how to host webinars, so that they could offer uninterrupted support to their clients and sustain their own businesses. He did this, despite himself being stuck in Mexico for seven months, during which time he taught a series of online workshops and donated all of the revenue from these events to buy food for struggling local families. Speaking about his win, Sandy says: ‘It’s been a challenging time for us all and I’m grateful for all the FHT and its members have done to support their communities. I am especially proud of how my academy students and graduates have all done their best to be the peace and kindness that we wish to see in the world.’ Finalists: Marie Duggan, Sally Kay, Clare Riddell, Elaine Wilkins Winter Winter 2022 2022

NEW! FHT INCLUSIVE THERAPY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR FHT GREEN THERAPY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Winner: Lucy Stevens, MFHT Since setting up her own therapy business in Somerset in 2006, Lucy has gone to great lengths to try and place sustainability and ethics at its very core. As well as making her own range of plant-based skincare products that form part of her natural treatment offerings, every aspect of her business has been carefully thought through and considered. Among many other things, Lucy uses a green energy supplier; prints her publicity leaflets on 100% recycled paper; uses biodegradable, plantable pencils to write her notes; wears ethically produced therapy clothing; uses blankets made from recycled plastic bottles; and cleans her treatment room with eco-friendly cleaning products from independent companies. She also sourced locallymade, eco-friendly paint to decorate her studio and reclaimed furniture, and has created an aromatherapy garden outside, to encourage birds, wildlife and insects. The fresh flowers and herbs she grows are also used to decorate and scent the therapy room. Speaking about her win, Lucy says: ‘It’s such an honour to win this award. I hope that some of the little things I do within my practice to help the environment might inspire others to do the same.’ Finalists: Glynis Finnigan, Philippa Lee, Hannah Lovegrove, Melanie Price, Rima Shah

Winner: Ana Bott, MFHT Ana runs a massage clinic in Brighton and specialises in supporting transgender and non-binary clients, as well as therapy students and practitioners who want to create a truly inclusive practice. In addition to creating a treatment environment where her clients feel safe and relaxed, Ana has led seminars with national charities and created free resources for other bodywork therapists, to raise awareness about how massage can help a range of health and other issues that specifically affect the LGBTQ+ community. She has also amassed a strong online following, in the UK and overseas, and provides free information and self-help videos for transgender and non-binary people to help them better understand their body pains; reconnect and feel safe in their body; and reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, fear and intense gender dysphoria. She has also written a chapter on transgender inclusion for the most recent edition of Mosby’s Pathologies for Massage Therapy and a co-written and lectures on the world’s first LGBTQ+ inclusive healthcare course for manual therapists. Ana says: ‘Winning this award means the world, not just to me but to my transgender clients who are currently experiencing high levels of discrimination and lack of access to healthcare. For them to see someone specialising in their care win this award gives hope for the future. It means everything.’ Finalists: Hinna Bashir, Farrah Idris, Beverli Taylor T International therapist 29

Essential oil profile

Black pepper

(Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, better known as black pepper, is a climbing vine plant that produces heart-shaped leaves and spikes of flowers that bear up to 60 tiny round fruit (peppercorns). The essential oil is steam distilled from the crushed, almost-ripe fruit and ranges from nearly colourless to pale green in colour. It has a strong, spicy aroma and middle note.

Key uses

Warming, stimulating

Botanical family Piperaceae

Chemical composition Hydrocarbons – Monoterpenes: limonene (up to 25%), α-pinene, β-pinene, δ-3-carene, sabinene, terpinenes, α-phellandrene, myrcene. Sesquiterpenes: β-caryophyllene (up to 30%), β-bisabolene, α-copaene, β-farnesene. Alcohols – Monoterpenols: terpinene-4-ol, α-terpineol, linalool Ketones – di-hydrocarvone, piperitone. Aldehydes – piperonal. The chemical composition of any essential oil can vary greatly, according to the plant species; climate, altitude and soil where the plant is grown; and when it is harvested. Refer to the manufacturer’s safety data sheet for a breakdown of an oil’s chemical profile.

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Therapeutic properties Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, decongestant, diaphoretic, diuretic, eupeptic, expectorant, febrifuge, rubefacient, stimulant (digestive), tonic.

antioxidant and pro-oxidant properties’.

Research

groups, the experimental group showed better pain tolerance in the left and right upper trapezius and a more significant improvement in 10 motions compared to the control group.

Neck pain A study involving 60 participants with a history of neck pain were randomly divided into a control and experimental group Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects (Ou et al, 2014). Both groups Indications A study recently published applied a 2g cream directly to Anaemia, appetite (loss of), in the Chinese Journal of the affected area daily after arthritis, bruising, chilblains, Natural Medicine provides showering or bathing, for four constipation, coughs, fevers, further evidence that weeks. The cream supplied flatulence, muscle pain/ piperine, an alkaloid stiffness/ fatigue, rheumatism. to the experimental group isolated from Piper nigrum, contained a 3% concentration inhibits inflammation and of marjoram, black pepper, Blends with has analgesic effects, lavender, and peppermint, while Frankincense, marjoram, and therefore may have the control group applied an rosemary, sandalwood. a therapeutic role to play unscented cream. The results in the management of showed that while visual Safety data conditions such as sciatica analogue scale (VAS) scores Tisserand and Young highlight (Yu et al, 2021). T improved significantly for both that skin sensitization can be an issue when the oil is NB: Only members who hold an appropriate aromatherapy oxidised and therefore proper storage is essential (Tisserand qualification, accepted by the FHT for membership and insurance purposes, can make, use and supply aromatherapy and Young, 2014). They also blends and other products containing essential oils. Never state that ‘because of the ingest essential oils or apply to the skin undiluted. pungency of fresh pepper, it is often incorrectly assumed that the oil must be a strong skin irritant. It is not unusual For references and further reading, visit for a substance to have both fht.org.uk/IT-references

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Illustrations: Shutterstock

Originating from India, black pepper has been used as a culinary and medicinal spice for more than 4,000 years. Today, it is often a popular addition to sports massage blends, as the oil’s analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in the treatment of muscular pain, stiffness and fatigue. It is also believed to be helpful for rheumatic and arthritic pain. Thanks to its antispasmodic, carminative and stimulant effects, black pepper is beneficial for a range of common digestive disorders including flatulence and constipation. A number of sources suggest that it also stimulates the spleen, which supports the production of new blood cells, so it may be valuable where anaemia, heavy bleeding or bruising are indicated.

Digital

50,000 people

are searching for you!

In this article, FHT’s CEO, Monica Price, explains how you can make the most of your personal profile on the FHT Therapist Register

ounded an incredible 60 years ago, the FHT has always led the way as a professional association, and this includes hosting the largest register of complementary, holistic beauty and sports therapists in the UK. Our newly re-branded FHT Therapist Register went live on 9 January 2022 and offers all of the same fantastic features that it did when it was originally launched

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as the ‘FHT Directory’ in October 2013. It also offers the public, employers and care commissioners peace of mind when choosing a therapist, as only those FHT members who hold insurance and professional qualifications that meet robust industry standards are listed. And with our website having a ‘Domain Authority’ score of 49 (which basically means its content is considered relevant

and trustworthy) and 326,000 websites linking back to fht.org.uk from all over the world, whether you specialise in complementary, sports, beauty or hair treatments, the FHT Therapist Register really is the ideal place to get yourself seen! The FHT Therapist Register is a key place where people can learn about you, and contact you more easily. Not only will  International therapist 31

Digital

this be attractive to new clients, it will also improve your visibility on search engines, too. As a qualified member of the FHT, you can: n Add a photo, business logo or FHT stock image to your profile n Write a personal introduction, about you and your therapy business n Include extra contact details – your website, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and blog

n List up to two email addresses and three telephone numbers n Encourage clients to provide testimonials about you and your therapy services. In this article you will find some FAQs to help you update your personal profile page on the FHT Therapist Register. It’s very simple to update your details, and you can change these as little or as often as you like.

What’s the web address for the FHT Therapist Register? We will be directing the public and other users to fht.org.uk/findatherapist in our consumer campaigns and other communications, however the FHT Therapist Register can also be found via the main FHT website homepage (fht.org.uk).

Am I already listed on the FHT Therapist Register? If you were already listed on the ‘FHT Directory’, your profile will automatically appear on the FHT Therapist Register. If you previously opted out and would like to opt back in, please email optin@fht.org. uk (It may take up to seven days before you can then update your profile on the FHT Therapist Register.)

How do I update my profile? Simply follow these steps (see images above): 1. Visit fht.org.uk 2. Click on the ‘Members’ area’ tab, at the very top of the screen. 3. You will now be prompted to log in to the Members’ area, providing your username and password. (If you have recently joined the FHT, you will receive a welcome email containing your log in 32 International therapist

details shortly. If you have forgotten your password, select ‘Request new password’ when you arrive at the log in page. You will be prompted to provide your username or email address and will then be sent a link to reset your password.) 4. Once you have successfully logged in, you will be taken to a page that contains links to different FHT membership services and benefits. Under ‘Manage your membership’, select ‘Update your membership details and FHT Therapist Register profile’. 5. The next screen will show you your profile, as seen by the public. Select the ‘edit’ tab. 6. On the next screen, there are two tabs: ‘account’ and ‘main profile’. Before editing your account or main profile, please read

the guidelines on the right-hand side of each page. As well as providing some useful tips, you will also find three text samples that you can copy, paste and edit for your personal introduction. We also offer some stock images if you would prefer to use those instead of a headand-shoulder shot of yourself. 7. When you are happy with the information and picture you have added, select ‘save’ at the bottom of the page. Your profile is complete!

Will my profile automatically update? Any changes you make to your profile page will appear as soon as you click ‘save’ and the FHT will be sent an email to flag up any Winter 2022

Digital

updates you have made. Please note that we will amend your membership contact details held at the office to reflect those you provide for your profile, for instance, a different contact telephone number or email address.

and display a business address, or select ‘Show no address details’ from the ‘address privacy’ option when editing your ‘main profile’. As well as removing your home address from your profile page, this will also remove the Google Map.

One of the therapies I’m qualified in isn’t listed – how do I add this? Only the FHT can add therapies listed on your profile page. If you are qualified in a therapy accepted by the FHT, and this therapy is not listed on your page, it’s probably because we haven’t seen a copy of your qualification. Please email or send a copy of your qualification certificate to the FHT at info@fht.org.uk or upload at fht.org.uk/update-your-qualifications What if I do not want certain details to be visible on my profile page? When editing your profile, simply tick ‘Hide from profile’ to remove specific details from public view.

What if I don’t want my address to show? As the FHT Therapist Register uses Google Maps, we need an address so that people can find you when searching for a member in their area. The Register automatically imports the town, postcode, county and country from the latest ‘business address’ you supplied the FHT. If we do not have a business address for you on record, it will import your home town, postcode and county. The Register will NOT automatically import a building number or street, for business or home addresses. If you do not want any part of your home address displayed, you can supply Winter 2022

What can I say in my personal introduction? This is an ideal space to talk about you and your practice, and promote what you do. We have produced a number of guidelines to help you complete this section, as well as templates that you can copy, paste and amend online for your own profile (see opposite) – please visit fht.org.uk/ writing-a-personal-introduction. Do I have a limited word count for my personal introduction? Your personal introduction is set to a maximum of 750 characters. Please check that your introduction doesn’t stop mid-sentence, once you’ve saved it – a common problem if you are ‘copying and pasting’ text from somewhere else.

What sort of profile picture can I upload? To display properly, your picture must be square and 150 pixels by 150 pixels in size – if it is any bigger, it will automatically be downsized in order to meet this specification. A professional looking head and shoulder shot is ideal, or you can upload your business logo. If you would prefer not to include a photograph of yourself and do not have a logo, you might like to use a suitable free image from sites such as pexels.com, pixabay.com and unsplash.com

Personal Introduction Sample 1 “Hello and thank you for reading my profile. I have been a complementary therapist for nearly 15 years. While my main clinic is based at the ABC Health Centre in Town, I also work on a mobile basis, so that I can visit clients who have difficulty travelling to appointments. I enjoy supporting a wide range of clients, but my specialism is working with the elderly and helping those who have long-term mobility problems. You will see from the list below that I offer a wide range of complementary therapies, so that together we can choose a therapy - or combination of therapies - that best meet your individual needs. Please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any queries or to arrange a free consultation.” Personal Introduction Sample 2 “My name is Paul and I have been a sports therapist and personal fitness trainer for five years. Before training to be a therapist, I was a fitness instructor in the army. I am the official Sports Masseur for A Professional Football Team and work with both amateur and professional cyclists, supporting them throughout their training and pre/post-event. I also run a regular clinic at X Health Centre in City 1 and Y Establishment in City 2 where I see a wide range of clients, including people who have non-sports related injuries or problems. Whether you have a specific problem that you want to address, or are simply interested in improving your fitness levels and general well-being, I can help support you on your journey.” Personal Introduction Sample 3 “Thank you for viewing my profile page. My name is Anne and I am the owner of an award-winning salon and day spa in the heart of City Name, which offers a wide range of therapies and treatments to cater for all your beauty and well-being needs. My team of highly skilled and friendly therapists can offer you advice about which treatment is best for you – from different hair removal techniques and skin treatments, to complementary therapies and nutritional advice. Late night appointments are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays and we are also open on Saturdays.”

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Self-care

Express

yourself

In this excerpt from Sarah Kuipers' new book, The Thriving Giver, she explains how expressive writing is a useful tool for calming anxiety and processing thoughts and emotions

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Self-care

my had been a well-respected member of a strong and supportive nursing team working in accident and emergency for several years. They called themselves the ‘A&E Family’. Nursing was her vocation; she loved it, and had always been able to perform at her best while working with a group of colleagues who valued and respected each other. Unfortunately, shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020/2021, a new matron arrived who wanted to run things differently. Unhappy with the new leadership style, 40% of the team left. The sense of teamwork disappeared, and everyone had to protect their

own back. Having lost the support of her close group of colleagues, Amy felt isolated and vulnerable, fearful of making the slightest mistake. Eventually, the pressures of working in that hostile environment resulted in Amy taking several weeks off, due to work-related stress. Amy’s stress was amplified by her husband now working from home, and her four-year-old’s nursery being closed. She never had time alone – which had been one of her key coping strategies. Jogging, another outlet for stress, no longer seemed to help. She was finding it very difficult to control the feelings of anger, frustration and disappointment about the changes in her team.

committed to setting aside time every morning to doing it while she was off work. Alongside the writing, Amy also discovered that there were times when she also needed to reach out to a friend with whom she could share openly some of what she was feeling inside. WHY IS EXPRESSIVE WRITING SO POWERFUL? The process is a safe and healthy way to express your feelings, and helps you acknowledge, structure and organize your thoughts. As you follow the flow of whatever comes up, whether it is despair, frustration or a feeling of inadequacy, your writing can reveal the feelings hidden underneath, and help you gain

Through writing, you may recognize old behaviour patterns from the past that keep repeating themselves, prompting you to choose a different response in the future. You might reflect on issues that you wish to resolve, or seek solutions to a problem."

Amy relished the opportunity to use expressive writing to de-clutter her brain, emptying her mind of those swirling thoughts and releasing feelings onto the page. Having found a safe way to discharge her anger, she no longer needed to find a kickboxing class to express her rage! She also saw how the anger helped her connect to an inner strength and fierceness at work, making it easier to stand up for herself. Yet, at the same time, it masked the underlying anxiety, highlighting the need to develop some calming resources. Under the anger and frustration, she discovered a deep sense of grief at losing her supportive team, and sadness for her friends who had been forced to leave. Over the next week, Amy became significantly calmer, and able to think more clearly. Having noticed her anger flaring up when she didn’t do any writing over the weekend, she Winter Winter 2022 2022

a deeper understanding of yourself. Instead of allowing anger to simmer inside, writing offers you an outlet, without hurting anyone. Through writing, you may recognize old behaviour patterns from the past that keep repeating themselves, prompting you to choose a different response in the future. You might reflect on issues that you wish to resolve, or seek solutions to a problem. After initially expressing disappointment in yourself, you may begin to write in a more compassionate way. The processing that naturally happens through writing can help change the way you think about yourself, others and the world. You can be as creative as you like when describing your feelings, using images or the symbolic language of metaphors. If you are someone who tends to ignore your emotions, you  International International therapist therapist 35 35

Self-care

may be surprised how quickly you experience a sense of relief from not having to keep those feelings locked up inside. James Pennebaker and John Evans have written extensively on expressive writing and the growing evidence of a wide range of psychological and physical benefits (Pennebaker and Evans, 2014). Participants who wrote for 20 minutes about a traumatic or emotional experience on four consecutive days showed improvements in their physical health, with fewer visits to the doctor, as long as four months later (Baikie and Wilhelm, 2005). Another study (Lepore, 1997) demonstrated that one 25-minute session of expressive writing may reduce distress before an impending stressful event by lessening the emotional impact of intrusive thoughts. So, you may wish to try expressive writing before a situation which you expect to be challenging. TRANSFORMING GRIEF INTO GRATITUDE Let me tell you about a time when expressive writing helped heal my inner turmoil. That afternoon, I had been exploring the walled garden of a country mansion, pushing my friend Carole around in a cumbersome wheelchair. Her terminal cancer had spread throughout her body, yet she was determined to enjoy life. I negotiated alternative routes to avoid the steps so we could enjoy the magnificent rose gardens outlined by clipped box hedges, the fragrance of sweet peas and stunning herbaceous borders filled with delphiniums, salvia and gaura. We reminisced about all the companionable times we had spent walking along the coasts, rivers, hills and valleys of Europe. For me, it was painful to witness the deterioration in her health and know that soon I would lose such a special friend. After dropping Carole back home, I had an early night, unaware of the emotions simmering inside. A few hours later, I woke and tried all my usual tricks to get back to sleep. Finally, I switched on the light, got out some paper and started writing. All my thoughts, feelings and emotions 36 International therapist

EXPERIENTIAL EXERCISE: EXPRESSIVE WRITING For this exercise you will need something for making notes. Allow yourself 15 to 20 minutes. Switch off your phone and find a quiet space where you will be undisturbed and free from distractions. It is preferable to write by hand, rather than on a device. Instead of using your reflective journal, I suggest you use blank paper, so you can discard this writing. You can set the timer on your phone if you wish. If you feel daunted by the prospect of having to write for 15 to 20 minutes, it is better to write for five minutes than not at all. You can gradually increase the time until the process becomes easier. There are also some variations at the end of the exercise that you could try.

W rite for 15 to 20 minutes about: n whatever keeps you awake at night n anything troubling you, whether related to the past, present or future n your relationships with your partner, colleagues, friends or family n whatever is important to you n your work.

If you can’t decide what to write about, just start and see what comes up. As you are writing, you may find the following pointers helpful: n A llow yourself to express the full range of your thoughts and emotions, without worrying about grammar, punctuation or spelling. n R ather than describing in detail what happened, it can be more helpful to pay attention to your thoughts, feelings and sensations in your body. n Avoid judging, censoring or editing. n C ontinue writing until the time is up. If you get stuck you can repeat what you have written, or express your feelings about having nothing to write about.

2 3

When you have finished, scrunch your writing into a ball, or tear it up, then throw it away. pend a few moments checking in with yourself before rushing back S into life. n How are you feeling now? n What subtle shifts have you noticed?

You may sense that other emotions and feelings are simmering under the surface, which it would be helpful to express. If so, you might allow yourself a few more minutes to continue writing, or allocate another time to repeat the exercise.

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Self-care

MEMBER OFFER The Thriving Giver, published by Practical Inspiration Publishing, retails at £12.99 but FHT members can enjoy a 25% discount off their printed copy, plus free postage and packaging, by entering the code THRIVE25 when prompted at practicalinspiration.com

poured onto the page, opening a floodgate of tears. I expressed my grief and untangled the multitude of ways in which my dear friend had brought insight, richness and variety to my life. She had been there for me through my illness. Her insights into family dynamics had smoothed the way for me to release myself from the role of rescuer and peacemaker in my family. Forty minutes of writing led to a sense of appreciation for the gift of having such a wonderful friend, and how it was an honour to witness someone navigating the challenges of illness with such awareness and wisdom. Finally, I was able to drift off into a deep and restful sleep. This form of writing is now my constant companion through any turbulent times. Not only does it help me access, express and process whatever is troubling me, it often reveals new perspectives on a situation. It can be reassuring to know that this type of writing is for your eyes only. It can be cathartic to tear up, shred or burn whatever you have written, especially if you are concerned that someone else might read it. If you do choose to keep your writing, I encourage you to put it aside for several weeks before reading it, by which time you are likely to have moved on from that situation. The benefits of expressive writing can be gradual and cumulative. However, as you write, you may initially experience higher levels of distress, physical symptoms or negative moods. This is likely to dissipate over time, but if you are experiencing difficulties with your mental health or have a history of abuse or trauma, this exercise may not be appropriate, and it would be wise to seek professional help. Winter Winter 2022 2022

SET YOUR INTENTIONS I invite you to use this process each day for a week so that you experience the multitude of ways in which it can be helpful. To confirm your commitment, you may wish to write down in your reflective journal when you will do it and how long you will spend doing it. After a week, you may decide to continue using expressive writing every day, if only for five minutes. You can also use it as a tool to have at your fingertips whenever something upsets your equilibrium, or the next time your partner, a friend or a colleague is not around when you want to talk something through. EXERCISE VARIATIONS If the above exercise is not helpful for you, here are some variations you could experiment with, to see if they suit your needs better. Focus on positive experiences If you prefer not to write about painful experiences, focusing on positive experiences is another option. One study showed that writing about intensely positive experiences for 20 minutes on three consecutive days resulted in participants benefitting from enhanced positive mood, as well as fewer visits to the doctor, three months later (Burton and King, 2009). If you want to try this out, you could choose, for example, to write about a peak travel experience, or a special time with family or friends. Finger writing Another variation of this exercise is to simply use your finger to write with, instead of a pen. If you feel wary of writing on paper, this can give you more freedom to express secret thoughts, feelings or swear words.

Writing with your finger can also be helpful if you are taking a courageous first step in expressing the truth of a challenging situation. A different approach Whenever Adam is stressed, he gets out his notepad and starts writing. Since organization is not one of his skills, the process of offloading all his thoughts and feelings onto paper is very cathartic. Writing often reveals that some of his worries are related to things he needs to do, prompting him to create lists or an action plan. He also writes down all the positive and negative things that are happening in his life and then consciously crosses out anything irrelevant. He always articulates his thoughts and feelings about the positives. When there is something he perceives as negative, he then asks himself what actions he can take to mitigate it. The process often reveals a different perspective or a realization that the situation is not as intractable as he thought, and he finishes by switching to writing about what he is grateful for in his life. Adam finds this an invaluable tool, which enhances the quality of his life and his sleep. T

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

Sarah Kuipers worked with clients for over 20 years, primarily as a hypnotherapist and life coach, while bringing up three boys as a single mother before experiencing burnout. Since completing a Masters research study on stress, she has facilitated numerous courses on stress management and personal development for medical students. Her new book, The Thriving Giver, covers seven principles for health professional and caregivers to enhance self-care and prevent burnout. You can also find lots of free resources on Sarah’s website sarahkuipers.com

International International therapist therapist 37 37

Beauty

Lash mapping Expert Lash Technician, Natalie Piper, provides a brief introduction to lash mapping

ith such a wide variety in lash extension lengths, thicknesses and curls, it is easy to become complacent and stick to fail-safe styles and looks. Using lash mapping enables you to create a style that is best suited to your client’s eye shape and having a plan to follow will also help to speed up your application time.

Start with looking at your client sitting up, head-on. It is sometimes a good idea to mark on the client's eyelid where you can visibly see any areas that need a ‘little lift’, perhaps using a curlier lash. When using a lash map, remember that it is just a guide – every client is unique, so be sure to adapt as necessary and don’t let it stunt your artistic flair.

Done properly, lash mapping will… nH elp define and enhance the lashes and eye in the best way possible. nE nsure there is symmetry between both eyes. nA ct as a guide while you work and help build the exact style you require according to the client’s natural lashes and preferences. nE nable you to create different looks and styles. nA llow you to confidently blend different lash curvatures within the treatment.

Natalie Piper is an expert lash technician and business development manager for The Eyelash Design Company, which manufactures Lash Perfect. Lash Perfect Academy offers training in a range of lash and brow treatments. lashperfect.co.uk/training

HOW TO MAP There are many map guides you can follow to produce different looks, but we’ll focus on four popular styles: natural, cat eye, doll eye and hybrid/beachy. You can achieve these styles by choosing a range of small (S), medium (M) and long (L) length lashes to create a gradation of lengths.

Natural The lashes in the inner eye are always shortest for client comfort as well as style, while the rest of the lash line is covered with lashes one length longer, creating a very even and natural look.

Hybrid/ beachy It is possible to combine Classic lash application together with Russian lash application to create Hybrid lashes. Choose Russian lashes one-to-two lengths shorter than the Classic lashes. This gives a full, on-trend look with extra length scattered throughout, and is perfect for almond and roundshaped eyes.

Natural

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Hybrid/ beachy

Cat eye By following the shape of a winged eyeliner, the lengths start short in the inner corners, gradually increasing halfway, with the longest length sweeping out towards the outer corners. This lash mapping is perfect for almond, close-set and round eyes. Doll eye The lashes always evenly graduate from the shortest length you are using in the inner corner up to a peak with the longest lengths in the centre, then working back down in length at the outer corners. This creates a beautiful lash style and helps to open the eye – perfect for almond and wide-set eyes.

Cat eye

Doll eye

Winter 2022

Advice

Start exercising This doesn’t have to be a workout in a gym - it could be taking up your favourite sport or pastime that you haven’t done in a while, such as golf, tennis, running, walking, dancing or kickboxing. When you exercise your brain releases a surge of chemicals called neurotransmitters, which include endorphins, also known as the ‘happy hormone’. The increased blood flow will make you feel more alert and focused afterwards, which in turn will help you to sleep better. Your heart and muscles also benefit as the heart rate increases to circulate more oxygen through your body at a quicker pace, making your whole body feel energised.

Stay hydrated

It sounds simple, but not drinking enough water could be the reason you are lacking energy. Our bodies are made up of mostly water and if you are not drinking enough, this could be affecting your metabolism (your body’s ability to convert food into energy). Aim for six to eight glasses of water or healthy liquids a day and remember that there is water in fruit and vegetables, so these can help boost your hydration levels. If you have an intense workout, drinking coconut water afterwards can help replace the electrolytes your body has sweated out.

ways... to improve your energy levels

FHT’s Chief Executive Officer and Nutritional Therapist, Monica Price, offers six top tips to help you and your clients boost your energy levels

lifestyle factors including stress mean we often need to up our daily intake. Good sources include green leafy vegetables, wholegrain foods, beans, lentils, fish and supplements.

Eat more wholegrain carbohydrates

Up your intake of B vitamins

Healthy carbohydrates give your body energy, but if you are eating a lot of refined sugars, processed food and sugary drinks, these can leave your body feeling sluggish and bloated in the long run. Eat more wholemeal bread, pasta, oats and rice, as these are low glycemic carbohydrates that take the body longer to digest and will allow your body to have a more consistent source of energy throughout the day.

Known as the ‘vitamin B complex’, these eight vitamins play a vital role in boosting our energy levels through the synthesis and repair of DNA and RNA (which keeps our cells healthy) and by metabolising protein, fat and carbohydrate in the body. They are water–soluble, which means the body doesn’t store them, and certain

Sleep is so important for our health and wellbeing. If you spend most nights tossing and turning, this will leave you feeling exhausted the next day. Try eliminating any intake of caffeine after 5pm as this is a stimulant and your body will be fighting to go to sleep if you drink

Winter 2022

Get more sleep

it before bedtime. Inhaling lavender essential oil is also good for calming the body and mind and promoting sleep. Turn off your mobile, read a good book, and try and empty your mind. I keep a notebook by my bed, to write down all the things I need to do or I am worrying about, which means I can then allow my body and mind to relax and unwind.

Do things that make you happy Doing things that make you happy will have a positive effect on your body and energy levels. Surround yourself with positivity and make time for YOU. Ask yourself every day, ‘What have I done today to make me feel good?’ Doing anything you love energises your brain – it could be taking up painting, or salsa dancing, or simply seeing friends (never underestimate the power of a good conversation). Our bodies need this positive energy around us, just as much as a healthy diet. T

Visit fht.org.uk/energy-boosters to download this article and share it with your clients or feel free to share the link online. International therapist 39

Illustration: ©Shutterstock

ow that the holiday season is over and we look to a healthy and happy 2022, one of the main concerns that people have is their energy levels. The winter is often a time spent indoors eating lots of food and generally hibernating! Energy levels are low and sometimes it’s an effort to get going. Here are my top tips to help you and your clients kickstart the New Year...

Sport

Sports injuries and fascia FHT accredited course provider, Amanda Oswald, discusses a myofascial approach to working with sports injuries

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Winter 2022

Sport

n the last 15 years a new approach to anatomy and physiology is starting to turn the classic model of musculoskeletal (MSK) dynamics on its head. Since the first International Fascia Congress in 2007, research into fascia has increased exponentially, offering new ways to understand every aspect of how we function and move. Recent research findings indicate that fascia is not just another type of body tissue but is a bodywide network that plays a significant role in balance, movement, and proprioception. The fascial network wraps around and through all other structures including individual cells, muscles, nerves, blood vessels, bones and organs. Fascia also holds much of our body fluid which enables it, and everything contained in it, to glide freely. The fascial network also holds the structures of the body in balance. In the world of architecture this is known as ‘tensegrity’ – the ability of a structure, such as a swaying bridge or skyscraper, to move and self-support. In the body we call it ‘biotensegrity’ and as we walk, work, and

stretch our way through the day and night, we demand this balance from our bodies. The fascial body is both elastic and resilient, which means it can respond effectively to the demands placed on it. Loading or pre-loading fascial tissue with kinetic energy enables dynamic body movement. Just as you pre-load a catapult by pulling back the elastic before letting go, so pre-loaded fascia can move explosively as the energy held in it is released. When moving and resting, fascia can change shape and consistency, yet it always remains in perfect balance.

Fascia and sport The demands of sport can cause adverse changes in the natural balance of the fascial network. Both acute and chronic injuries can occur. The more intense the activity, the higher the load on the fascia, and repeated loading through training and competition can overload tissue tolerance to the point where injuries develop. Sometimes there may be a specific event that causes an acute injury, but for many sportspeople the changes build up gradually

over time into a chronic condition. This is because many sports require repetitive overuse of certain body areas, which gradually leads to changes in the fascia. At first, over-used fascia becomes more sticky and thickened, which restricts the normal gliding action. Many people notice this as a stiffness, for example, in their neck or hip. Changes in the fascial network in one area can lead to biotensegral stress and imbalance elsewhere; pulling like a snag in a jumper and potentially altering whole-body movement and balance. A common characteristic of fascial restrictions is that they refer symptoms to other areas of the body through the altered biotensegral network. Effective treatment of fascial restriction and injury requires a focus not just on where the pain is felt but also where it originates from. This is especially true as fascial restrictions tend to build up over time causing progressive changes to balance and posture and a sequence of injuries that are now causing symptoms.

The MFR approach Myofascial release, also referred to as MFR

MFR TECHNIQUES FOR TENNIS ELBOW ARM PULL

Make sure you are in a comfortable position, facing your client’s head. Hold their hand, using one of your own hands to cradle underneath and the other round their wrist. Be careful not to squeeze or cause a ‘burning sensation’ on their skin. Ask them to let their arm go heavy and pull it gently towards you by leaning back slightly to the point where you can just feel resistance. Maintain this light traction for at least a couple of minutes waiting for a sense of the tissues softening. It might help to imagine their arm is ‘telescoping’out or lengthening towards you. If their arm starts to move, maintain your traction and follow the movement, keeping their arm within their comfortable range of movement.

CROSS-HAND STRETCH

Position yourself facing your client’s arm. Cross your hands over their elbow, avoiding pressure on the joint, with one hand on their biceps and the other on their forearm. It helps to stand in a lunge position with your weight in your back foot, as this transfers your weight into your hands. Allow your hands to sink slightly in and wait for a sense of softening in the skin. You will then get a sense of your hands moving away from each other, even if they don’t physically move.  Winter 2022

International therapist 41

Sport

MFR TECHNIQUES FOR RUNNER’S KNEE LEG PULL

Make sure you are in a comfortable position, facing your client’s head. Hold their foot with one hand cradling the heel and the other placed on top of their foot. Ask them to let their leg go heavy and pull it gently towards you by leaning back slightly to the point where you can just feel resistance. Maintain this light traction for at least a couple of minutes waiting for a sense of the tissues softening. It might help to imagine their leg is ‘telescoping’ out or lengthening towards you. If their leg starts to move, maintain your traction and follow the movement, keeping their leg within their comfortable range of movement.

LEG ROLLS

Position yourself next to your client’s thigh, with your body pointing diagonally inwards and towards their feet. Place both hands on their thigh and allow them to sink in to the skin until you feel a softening, or even a sense of their femur. Using slight pressure, allow your hands to gradually roll their femur inwards and away from their hip, in a spiral movement. This should feel like the movement is originating from their hip as opposed to just their leg moving. As the tissues release you will feel the leg progressively roll inwards, and you will see their foot roll in too.

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body movement, changes in breathing, and emotional release. The techniques oulined in this article can be used to help with chronic injuries affecting the upper and lower body. As with all myofascial techniques they are simple yet extremely effective. Key points to remember are: nW ork directly on skin but do not use any medium such as oil or wax – you want to feel a sense of contact and traction with the tissues. nA lthough you are working on the skin, always remember this is the route into the fascial network – directly under the skin is a layer of superficial fascia which links deeper into fascia at every level. nT ake your time to ease into the technique – allow time to sink into the skin with

gentle pressure. This means you can feel more and it encourages fascial release. nM aintain your pressure for at least two minutes or longer to allow time for the fascia to start to release – this can feel like softening or lengthening of the tissues. nF ollow any movement in the tissues, but never force it – sometimes a limb may start to twitch or move or fascial release creates movement of your hands on the skin. T

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

Amanda Oswald is a leading UK myofascial release therapist and author of Living Pain Free: Healing Chronic Pain with Myofascial Release. Originally trained in clinical massage, she has completed extensive further training in fascial techniques in the USA, UK and Europe. Alongside her clinic work, Amanda teaches Practical Myofascial Release courses to therapists and promotes self-myofascial release for all. paincareclinic.co.uk

Winter 2022

Images: Shutterstock and Amanda Oswald

for short, is a holistic approach that takes into account whole-body balance and movement and treats fascial restrictions. Careful postural assessment is vital. Treatment may start with the area where the client is feeling current symptoms or somewhere else, depending on what is learnt from postural assessment. For example, lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), which is felt in the forearm, can typically be due to fascial restrictions in the neck. Likewise, patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee) is often due to restrictions that have formed in the hips. Chronic injuries such as these are caused by restrictions that have formed in the two girdles in the body – shoulders and hips – through which most movement is transmitted. Change the movement patterns and symptoms will develop elsewhere. In myofascial release the therapist applies sustained gentle pressure and waits for a sense of the tissues starting to release. Clients, particularly sportspeople, are often surprised at how such a gentle and relaxing treatment can work so deeply into the body. As well as relief from symptoms, sometimes clients may experience a sense of ‘unwinding’ in which the body lets go of stored trauma. This can take the form of

Practical Myofascial Release Diploma FHT accredited qualification

CranioSaCral Therapy Training “This will change the way you work at a fundamental level” You may be a massage therapist, or other type of bodyworker, with various tools already in your therapy kit. Here are some you will be really glad you added. Participants repeatedly tell us how incorporating CST changes the way they work, at the most fundamental level, giving them new insights into how the body functions and how they treat. There are five core classes starting with CST1: running in Brighton, London, Manchester and Perth. Get in touch & find out more.

TRY OUR FREE 5-PART ONLINE INTRO www.upledger.co.uk 0800 690 6966

We run Practical Myofascial Release courses for therapists who want to become myofascial release specialists – or integrate MFR into their current practice. Practical Myofascial Release is a structured approach to effectively treating common, complex and ‘hard to treat’ chronic pain conditions. Our courses combine myofascial techniques with self-help exercises for clients. “The very best course I’ve had the pleasure to attend! It’s served to ignite my passion in MFR further.”

Find out more paincareclinic.co.uk/professional-courses info@paincareclinic.co.uk | 0330 041 7271

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tel: 07796 297071

www.prestontherapycentre.co.uk

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Winter 2022

International therapist 43

Local Groups

Local groups Basingstoke group discuss best practice and crystal energy therapy

After introducing ourselves to the rest of the group, the opening discussion of our October meeting was, ‘What makes a good therapist great?’, writes coordinator, Patricia Harbot. Among the main points was the need to remain professional at all times, and to maintain a clean, tidy and warm clinic for each client. Other suggestions were to factor in a follow-up email to check how they were feeling after the treatment, requesting their feedback. We also talked about the importance of time management and providing ‘buffer time’ between appointments for cleaning and writing up notes. However our main topic of the evening was an introduction to crystal energy therapy, by Lynne Whiteland, based in Boars Bridge. We enjoyed hot drinks and biscuits while Lynne

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took centre stage. Her talk was witty, informative, and quite a personal take on how there is a relationship between our crystals and ourselves. We also learnt that crystal therapy is a very gentle treatment with very few, if any, ill effects, so it is perfect to use alongside other therapies or if a person is very frail or ill, as they do not need to be moved to receive the treatment. Crystal therapy can also be performed remotely, with permission from the recipients, so ideal for when you are unable to see someone in person. This was a super group meeting and we all had so much in common to share. We have also decided to set up our own WhatsApp group, in order to stay in touch between meetings and share information that way.

Winter 2022

Local Groups

Colchester group learn about the benefits of salt crystals

FIND YOUR LOCAL GROUP Local groups are a valuable hub for all those with a passion for therapies. Hear from excellent speakers about the latest therapies and business ideas, and chat to like-minded therapists. EAST MIDLANDS Alfreton Leicester Lincoln Northampton Nottingham EAST OF ENGLAND Colchester Essex Hertfordshire Norwich NORTH EAST Durham Newcastle Tees Valley

After a year-long wait due to the pandemic, we were delighted to finally welcome Dathan Berry from Solrox (Ocean Spa Therapy) to our meeting in September 2021, writes coordinator, Miranda Welton. One of the reasons I invited Dathan to speak to the Colchester group is because he sells salt lamps. His stall is a magnet at many mind-body exhibitions and, like so many other therapists, I have one in my treatment room, so naturally wanted to know more about their therapeutic benefits. I thought we would learn where it’s best to place a salt lamp, how long to have it turned on, how far the ions or energy reach, what effects it has on air quality, what it can help with and so on. However, Dathan’s talk was much more in depth, covering – among many other things - the formation and mining of salt, and how humans have used salt and understood its many health and food preserving properties for centuries, with blocks of salt kept in houses before fridges were invented. Even as far back as ancient Egypt, salt was used to draw out moisture and preserve meat and during the more recent Georgian and Victorian eras, saltwater drinking and bathing became a popular pastime. During the meeting, we all held cold crystals that had been in a fridge Winter 2022

and felt as they changed in our hands and created tastes in our mouths, and then held hot crystals, which have a different effect altogether. You can also massage with salt crystals, to help reduce pain or discomfort, or use them in a bath to help skin conditions, and so much more. All different grades of salt are mined - some are created into large structures, others turned into fine bath salts. The good thing to know is that however you physically use salt crystals, you will benefit from them. Dathan and his team are currently working towards having a short course accredited by the FHT, to help practitioners further enhance other therapy practices. It’s certainly something I wish to explore further. T

SOUTH EAST Brighton and Hove Chichester Dartford, Gravesham and Medway Eastbourne and South Downs East Kent Milton Keynes Oxfordshire (South) Waterlooville Worthing

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

DID YOU KNOW?

Attending a local group meeting even a virtual one - can gain you two CPD points if the subject relates to professional development. Find out what subjects are covered as CPD at fht.org.uk/cpd. CAN'T FIND A GROUP IN YOUR AREA?

Why not become a local group coordinator? It is a very rewarding role, and there is a range of additional benefits available exclusively to coordinators. Go to fht.org.uk/create-your-own-local-group for more information.

MORE INFO

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

International therapist 45

Profile

Members News Kathryn Wilson, MFHT, talks about her voluntary work in Nepal, where she taught reflexology to carers and staff at an orphanage

was a primary school teacher for 24 years, specialising in supporting children with special needs, before I trained as a reflexologist. After completing my initial level three qualification, I went on to train with Dr Carol Samuel, Barbara Scott, Ann Gillanders, Sally Kay, Sally Earlam and Susan Quayle, as well as completing a variety of online courses during the COVID lockdown. I learned a great deal from each and by having a variety of reflexology techniques at my fingertips, I feel I have the skills to adapt my treatments to meet the needs of each individual client. At the Christmas dinner table in 2019, my family and I were discussing our year and what we’d like to achieve in 2020. My brother runs a charity (driftwoodassociation.org), which supports projects in Nepal. I had always wanted to do something to help with the orphanages and schools that he works with and he mentioned that sensory experiences were what the children responded to best. This naturally led to a discussion about reflexology and touch, and the benefits that both can offer children. My brother asked if I would be interested in teaching reflexology to the carers and staff at a school and orphanage in Kathmandu. I knew straight away that this opportunity would play to all my strengths and experiences in both teaching and reflexology but this was not an opportunity in another UK town - it was in the heart of one of the world’s most hectic developing cities, in the foothills of the Himalayas. It would also be completely self-funded, apart from the accommodation and food, while I was staying at the orphanage. After some deliberation I decided to throw caution to the wind and my partner and I found ourselves on a flight to Kathmandu in less than six weeks. 46 International therapist

Arriving at the city is quite an experience in itself, with lots of high-altitude circling due to limited landing slots, sporadic weather conditions and a short runway in a valley surrounded by mountains. Obviously we made it but before we could get over the flight, my partner and I were bundled into a taxi and driven into the somehow ‘organised’ madness of Kathmandu. The next day we arrived at the orphanage. My fears of what we might experience dissipated in a second, as soon as we entered the school gates. We were enthusiastically welcomed by over forty smiling, happy children, many of them blind, deaf, or physically disabled, which immediately gave me some perspective on my privileged life back in west Wales. The children were cared for by the most wonderful family and a team of fabulous support workers. Before getting underway, we discussed common ailments experienced by the children and drew up a list. This included digestive disorders, coughs, colds, headaches, earache and toothache. I then set to work, providing daily reflexology lessons to carers and teachers from the orphanage, who practised on the children. Immediately I could see the importance of touch and physical connection to these children and how much they loved the oneto-one attention from an adult. They were all very keen to come and have a go and then ask for treatments on a daily basis. It goes without saying that all of the children loved receiving reflexology. Using Susan Quayle’s The Children’s Reflexology Programme, I started by teaching the different reflexology techniques, which quickly relaxed both child and adult into the session. I also used the teaching cards from The Children’s Reflexology Programme, to show each of the techniques used, as we worked through

I knew straight away that this opportunity would play to all my strengths and experiences in both teaching and reflexology" Kathryn Wilson, MFHT

Kathryn Wilson, MFHT, has been enjoying the benefits of reflexology for over twenty years, following her initial success with reproductive reflexology. She runs her own business, Cottage Reflexology, from a treatment room in her home in the Pembrokeshire countryside and runs parent and baby reflexology classes in her local town. facebook.com/cottagereflexology Kathyjo215@gmail.com

Winter 2022

Profile

the various ailments. Again, in line with Susan’s programme, we started and ended each session at the solar plexus, which is incredibly calming and worked well. The digestive system is a good example of the daily lessons I gave. We would start by discussing how the build-up of toxins in the colon can cause headaches, before working the big toe, which corresponds to the head area. From there, we looked at how the central nervous system supplies nerves to the entire body, and so we worked the spine. We then looked at the immune system and how important it was to keep that healthy. Then we moved on to the digestive system. I visually explained each part of the body we were working on, and how it was linked to the ailment we were covering. This step-by-step explanation helped the carers and staff to make sense of the moves and techniques and why we were doing these – starting at the mouth, down the oesophagus, into the stomach, through the intestines and right through to the bowel and anus reflexes. Lastly I moved on to the lymphatic system, where I explained the importance of eliminating any waste and unwanted products in the body, as well as the key role of the kidneys for filtering and eliminating excess water. Using this approach, we worked our way through each of the ailments on their list during my time there. Luckily the children and staff knew fairly good English and although the anatomy and medical terms were a bit tricky, with lots of miming and noises, we soon understood each other! I had also taken a children’s ‘About the body’ book with me, which meant I could show different Winter 2022

pictures to illustrate which part of the body I was referring to. Knowing some basic sign language also helped, as many of the carers and staff sign when communicating to the deaf children at the orphanage. As well as the reflexology, I also taught some English language and physical activities, as they do very little in the way of physical education. I taught them how to dance with colourful scarves, and how to use large gym balls for different exercises. I also introduced them to some parachute games. They all loved these activities, too, and we were very grateful to the local schools and a physiotherapist who kindly donated the resources we needed. I have many precious memories from my short time at the orphanage, which includes treating a 6-year-old boy nicknamed ‘The Tornado’, who really relaxed into and enjoyed his treatments. At first the staff were reluctant to let him join in with the sessions, as they assured me ‘he cannot sit still for a minute’. I decided to use this little ball of energy as my model for each session and he invariably fell asleep. When I went to prepare the room on my last day, he was lying on the floor waiting for me and just five minutes into the session, he was asleep. The staff were so shocked and impressed, they sent for the principal of the school to come and see! Another lasting memory was the interest my work ignited in a 24-year-old blind man. He came to the orphanage after losing his sight to a landmine, at just seven years old. It also claimed the life of his best friend. He wanted to learn the skills so that he could carry out reflexology on the younger children

in the orphanage. He was truly amazing. I taught him using my own feet and although he couldn’t see, his deep sense of touch and connectivity made him a great reflexologist. This was a week I will never forget, where my combined skills and experiences helped to make a difference to the lives of underprivileged young people who needed my support the most, in one of the poorest regions of the world. I would highly recommend an experience like this to all reflexologists out there with a nagging sense of wanderlust. T International therapist 47

Long COVID research We take a look at two pilot studies looking into complementary therapy approaches to support clients with symptoms of long COVID

THE ANOSMIA, ACUPRESSURE, AROMASTICK AND AROMAPOT PROJECT By project leads, Dr Peter Mackereth, Paula Maycock and Ann Carter

efore COVID 19 emerged, anosmia (the inability to detect odours) was a relatively unknown term outside of medicine; however, olfactory disorders are not new health concerns. Nasal polyps, enlarged turbinates*, as well as degenerative disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease can result in difficulties to detect odours. Patients who have had laryngectomies or tracheotomies may also experience hyposmia (decreased ability to detect odours) due to a reduced or absent nasal airflow. Head trauma and local disease, such as cancer (and some cancer treatments), can be linked with long-term disorders of taste and smell. For several years, our project team has worked in cancer care with patients experiencing symptoms such as anosmia and xerostomia (dry mouth) - often referred to as ‘difficult to treat’ concerns. To help ease these distressing side-effects of treatment, with some success, we have used various therapies such as acupuncture/acupressure, massage, essential oils and reflexology, often in combination. The challenge is that most of these symptoms require a series of treatment combinations and ongoing advice and self-care. What we do know is that these challenging symptoms can affect quality of life, in particular depressing a cancer patient’s mood and reducing their appetite (Bernhardson et al, 2009). 48 International therapist

Long COVID patients can ill afford the detrimental effects of anosmia, which is often experienced alongside fatigue, breathlessness, muscle and joint pain and insomnia. As therapists, we know that interventions that combine touch techniques with aromatherapy can have benefits on wellbeing. From our review of the literature, we have found that even odour-evoked memories can alter mood and be useful for helping with psychological and physical health concerns (Carter et al, 2019). For someone who has altered ability to smell, even using regular recall of an aroma could be potentially of benefit. Importantly, there are many factors that can increase and decrease nasal resistance. Both smoking and alcohol increase nasal resistance, as does infective rhinitis - all can compromise the ability to detect odours. Research studies have shown that marked sensation of increased airflow was demonstrated when substances such as camphor, eucalyptus, L-menthol, vanilla, or

lignocaine were applied to the nasal mucosa (Chaaban & Corey, 2011). In the last 12 months, our team has embarked on a pilot project with volunteers. The process seeks to evaluate the combination of twice daily aroma trainings, using three separate pots, each with a pad infused with a different single essential oil. Prior to the inhalations from each of the three aromapots, the volunteers are asked to carry out a tapping routine of specific acupressure points which link to olfaction and gustatory function. During the day, our participants supplement this routine with using an aromastick with the same combination of essential oils used in the three pots. Participants are advised to hold the aromastick 2 to 6cms away from the nostrils, then use a gentle breathing technique, which we call ‘3 Breaths to Calm’. This involves breathing in through the nose and then out through the mouth (Carter & Mackereth, 2019). Usually, this activity can be done before a coffee or tea break and

Dr Peter Mackereth was the clinical lead of the complementary therapy and wellbeing service at The Christie for more than 15 years. He is currently an honorary researcher and lecturer at The Christie and a volunteer therapist at St Ann’s Hospice. Paula Maycock is a senior complementary therapist at The Christie, Manchester. Ann Carter has worked as a complementary therapist and teacher since 1989 in hospices and the acute sector. Search for 'integrated therapies training' at christie.nhs.uk

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Research

BOWEN THERAPY STUDY By project lead, Jo Wortley

Acupressure points which can be stimulated through gentle tapping

before lunch, so approximately three times a day, linked to consumption of food and drink. Using questionnaires, we are collecting data at the start of an individual’s personal project and after five weeks of adhering to the routine. Our initial pilot work with six participants revealed improvements in anosmia after three to four weeks of using the protocol. We are also intending to gather qualitative data via interviews with volunteers about the experience of living with anosmia and using our aromatherapy and acupuncture protocol. Our purpose in using the protocol is to stimulate the participants’ parasympathetic response to the triggers of selected aromas, combined with gentle acupressure, so promoting olfactory and gustatory function. Currently we have four students, all aromatherapists, from our recent online ‘Therapeutic Uses of Aromasticks and Aromapots’ course assisting with the project. We hope to present our work in 2022, once the data has been collected from a larger sample. *Turbinates are several thin bony elongated ridges forming the upper chambers of the nasal cavities – these increase the surface area allowing for rapid warming and humidification of inhaled air.

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

Winter 2022

n February 2021, I joined forces with Dianne Bradshaw* to launch a quantitative observational study that would look at whether Bowen therapy might prove a helpful intervention in improving the symptoms and wellbeing of people affected by long COVID. The initial aim was to recruit 60 to 70 qualified Bowen practitioners, who would provide a series of six weekly Bowen sessions to self-elected clients (participants) who had been experiencing symptoms of long COVID for six months or more and were eligible to take part in the study. Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP) questionnaires were to be completed by each participant, with all of the Bowen practitioners taking part receiving online training to help them understand the aims and objectives of the study and how to use the MYMOP questionnaires appropriately, in order for the data to be valid. As with many complementary therapy interventions, in a ‘real world’ situation, Bowen sessions are adapted to meet the needs and presenting symptoms of the individual client, which may change from one session to the next. For this reason, the Bowen practitioners taking part were not required to follow a ‘standardized’ treatment, however they were asked to only use moves learned during their core Bowen training (modules 1 to 5). At the time of writing (December 2021), I am pleased to report that 30 practitioners managed to complete a series of six treatments with at least one study participant, producing a total of 26 valid sets of data. While I am yet to fully collate and compare the data, the initial results look very promising, with the majority of participants seeing an improvement in one or both symptoms that they were seeking help with, as identified in their MYMOP questionnaires. When comparing data taken from Weeks 1 and Weeks 7 only: n 14 out of 15 participants reported an improvement in their fatigue;

n 12 out of 14 participants reported an improvement in their mobility (walking, jogging or running); n 20 out of 22 participants reported an improvement in their general wellbeing. While these results look very positive, we do need to understand what happens to people who have no intervention over a 7-week period, to establish whether this is ‘normal’ recovery. It was also very pleasing to see that the vast majority (22 out of 24) highly recommended Bowen, rating it between 8 and 10 out of 10. While it’s involved a lot of time and effort, it’s exciting to be leading the way with this study and once it has been published, I will of course ensure that FHT members are made aware of the key outcomes. Although this study obviously focuses on Bowen therapy, it is important that as a community of professional therapists, we all share as much information and best practice as we can, to ensure the long-term safety of our clients and to also demonstrate the potential role that therapies may have in helping to support clients with long COVID, where appropriate. * Dianne, an experienced Bowen and McTimoney practitioner who worked on both humans and animals, sadly passed away several months after the study was launched. T

Jo Wortley is a Director and Senior Tutor at the College of Bowen Studies, which offers an FHT accredited practitioner qualification in the Bowen Technique, alongside a range of Bowen masterclasses. thebowentechnique.com

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Research

Migraines and music

igraine is a severe and painful health condition, with common symptoms including intense head pain (often on one side of the head); visual disturbances (such as flashing lights); sensitivity to light, sounds and smells; fatigue; and feeling or being sick (NHS, 2021; The Migraine Trust, 2021). It is believed to affect over a billion people worldwide and 10 million (one in seven) people in the UK. According to The Migraine Trust, an estimated 190,000 migraine attacks occur every day in the UK, with those affected losing a total of 25 million days from their work and education each year (The Migraine Trust, 2021). Not surprisingly, the Trust reports that the condition can also take a serious toll on relationships and mental health.

Inactivity and risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes

egular physical activity (PA) has many well-researched health benefits, which could potentially play an important role in mitigating the severity of COVID-19. Among others, regular PA can help to: n improve immune function; n reduce the incidence and symptoms from various viral infections; n reduce systemic inflammation (a main contributor to lung damage caused by COVID-19); n improve cardiovascular health; n increase lung capacity and muscle strength; and n improve mental health (Sallis et al, 2021). A retrospective observational study conducted in California, USA, and published in British Journal of Sports Medicine identified 48,440 adult patients with a COVID-19 diagnosis from 1 January 2020 to 21 October 2020, with at least three exercise vital sign measurements recorded from 19 March

50 International therapist

2018 to 18 March 2020. The researchers linked each patient’s self-reported physical activity category (consistently inactive=0–10 min/week, some activity=11–149 min/week, consistently meeting USA guidelines=150+ min/ week) to the risk of hospitalisation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and death after COVID-19 diagnosis. The results showed that ‘consistently meeting PA guidelines was strongly associated with a reduced odds for severe COVID-19 among infected adults. Specifically, when compared with those who reported being consistently inactive, those who were consistently meeting PA guidelines had lower odds of being hospitalised, requiring ICU admission and dying from COVID-19. Even activity levels that did not meet the PA guidelines were significantly associated with reduced odds of hospitalisation and death. ‘It is notable that being consistently

inactive was a stronger risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes than any of the underlying medical conditions and risk factors identified by CDC* except for age and a history of organ transplant. In fact, physical inactivity was the strongest risk factor across all outcomes, compared with the commonly cited modifiable risk factors, including smoking, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and cancer’ (Sallis et al, 2021). In the study’s summary, the authors suggest that the medical community and public health agencies should promote ‘the potential for habitual physical activity to lower COVID-19 illness severity’ and that ‘pandemic control recommendations should include regular physical activity across all population groups’. *The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention n Read the full study at fht.org.uk/ IT-139-research-COVID-inactivity

Winter 2022

Research

In a small pilot study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine, researchers in France sought to examine the impact of a patient-controlled music intervention on 20 episodic migraine patients (Palongue et al, 2021). Over a three-month period, the patients (17 females and 3 males) were required to complete one-totwo sessions of music intervention per day, with a minimum of 15 sessions per month. The music intervention was administered via a smartphone- (and computer-) based application called Music Care, which utilizes the ‘U’ sequence, designed to gradually relax the listener. Patients could adjust the length of the music intervention and choose their preferred style of

instrumental music. Following the intervention, patients reported a significant reduction in the frequency of migraine attacks, with 10 patients reporting a 50% reduction in the frequency of their migraine attacks. Some participants also reported a significant reduction in medication intake, duration of migraine attacks, and anxiety and depression. The authors concluded that this pilot study provides ‘evidence that music intervention may significantly prevent migraine attacks. Moreover, this method is easily accessible and administered. Future well-controlled clinical trials are necessary to further explore the efficiency of the intervention.’ n Read the full study at fht.org.uk/ IT-139-research-migraines

Research in brief Integrative medicine in convalescence from COVID-19 In an article published in EXPLORE, the authors give advice based on current evidence about diet, supplements, physical activity, stress management, and other helpful therapeutic modalities, to support convalescence from mild to moderate COVID-19 (Alschuler et al, 2020). Modalities covered in this article include qi gong, breathing exercises, mindfulness, aromatherapy and expressive writing. The authors state that ‘this advice will continue to evolve as we care for patients recovering from MtoM [mild to moderate] COVID-19. Ideally, a randomized trial would confirm the value of these therapies as well as any additive, negative, or synergistic effects. Until that time, the high safety profile of these recommendations align with the first principle of medicine, primum non nocere [Latin for ‘first, do no harm’].’ n Read the full article at fht.org.uk/IT-139research-COVID-integrative-medicine

Yoga, meditation and mindfulness in children’s oncology

Feel the benefit of FHT’s membership of the RCCM what it does, available on their homepage (rccm.org.uk) n If you are involved in research, the The FHT is a long-standing corporate RCCM can help to publicise your work on member and supporter of the RCCM their blog and Twitter, as well as in their (Research Council for Complementary newsletter. They can also help you to find Medicine). study participants or disseminate a paper The vision of the RCCM is ‘to promote or article you have had published. research that will widen the availability n The RCCM can offer advice on of and access to safe and effective research to individuals, from their expert complementary medicine for patients trustees. Please email info@rccm.org.uk within the National Health Service in the with your query, mentioning that you are UK, to help prevent disease and improve a member of the FHT. patients' health and quality of life’. n You can also sign up for the RCCM’s As the FHT is a corporate member of quarterly newsletter at rccm.org.uk/join the RCCM, as an FHT member you in and follow them on Twitter @theRCCM turn have access to: for the latest news and updates in the n A video explaining what RCCM is and world of CAM research.

Winter 2022

A review of the current literature on yoga, meditation and mindfulness in paediatric oncology was recently published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine (Stritter et al, 2021). Eleven studies met the review criteria, revealing the following highlights: n Yoga and mindfulness seem to be helpful methods to support children and adolescents during and after oncological treatment. n These interventions address physical as well as emotional challenges caused by the disease and the treatment. n Research must meet the challenge to develop suitable designs to further and better investigate the effects. n Read the full review at fht.org.uk/IT-139research-paediatric-oncology

Reflexology and pain intensity Certain psychiatric disorders are conventionally treated using electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which can result in memory impairment, headache and muscle pain. A randomized clinical trial published in Journal of Caring Sciences showed a ‘positive effect of reflexology on reducing the intensity of pain in patients receiving ECT’ (Aliashraf Jodat et al, 2021). n Read the full study at fht.org.uk/IT-139research-reflexology-ECT

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Medical A-Z

DEMENTIA Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a range of symptoms caused by different diseases that affect the brain including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies and frontotemporal dementia. Some people may have a combination of different types of dementia, which is commonly referred to as mixed dementia (Alzheimer’s Society, 2021; Dementia UK, 2021). Dementia is a progressive condition that gets worse over time, as more nerve cells die and the brain starts to shrink. Symptoms commonly include problems with memory, thinking, problem solving, language, visual perception, and changes in mood. However, each person will experience dementia differently, depending on which parts of the brain are affected and the type of disease causing the dementia (Alzheimer’s Society, 2021; Dementia UK, 2021). Dementia mainly affects people over the age of 65 and the risk of developing it increases significantly with age. When someone develops dementia before the age of 65, this is referred to as ‘young-onset dementia’. According to Alzheimer’s Society, there are more than 850,000 people in the UK living with dementia, 42,000 of whom are living with young-onset dementia (Alzheimer’s Society, 2021).

ORTHODOX TREATMENT There is currently no cure for dementia and many of the diseases that cause it are sadly terminal. Conventional treatment, including prescribed medication, is likely to vary according to the type of disease causing the dementia, how advanced the disease is, the type of symptoms being displayed and potential side-effects (NHS, 2021; Alzheimer’s Society, 2021). Drugs used to help temporarily reduce the symptoms of dementia include donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), galantamine (Reminyl) and memantine. Antidepressants may be prescribed to reduce anxiety and depression, and where challenging behaviour is an issue and it cannot be managed using different coping strategies, antipsychotics may be prescribed. For more information about dementia, 52 International therapist

visit alzheimers.org.uk, dementiauk.org and nhs. uk/conditions/dementia

COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY n Aromatherapy and agitation A small pilot study recently conducted across five residential care sites in Australia looked at whether topically-applied, individualised essential oil preparations showed any promise in alleviating agitation in people with dementia (Leach et al, 2021). The study findings ‘highlight some promising effects […] and indicate that a large multi-centre, cluster-randomized controlled trial of this treatment is feasible’. n Massage, other non-drug interventions and depression A systematic review and network meta-analysis published in British Medical Journal showed that 10 nondrug interventions ‘were as, or more, efficacious than drug interventions for reducing symptoms of depression in people with dementia and without a diagnosis of a major depressive disorder’ (Lassell et al, 2021). The 10 non-drug interventions cited were animal therapy, cognitive stimulation, exercise, massage and touch therapy, reminiscence therapy, multidisciplinary care, occupational therapy, cognitive stimulation and a cholinesterase inhibitor, exercise combined with social interaction and cognitive stimulation, and psychotherapy combined with reminiscence therapy and environmental modification. Read the full article at fht.org.uk/IT-139-researchdementia n Horse riding, gardening and wellbeing A small study that involved eight

people with dementia taking part in adaptive gardening or adaptive riding interventions found that both activities supported emotional wellbeing and quality of life. The authors concluded that ‘adaptive riding appeared to support longer durations of active participation with more complex forms when compared to adaptive gardening’ and therefore ‘more research is needed with a larger sample size to further examine similarities and differences’. Read the full article at fht.org.uk/IT-139research-riding T NB: The information provided in this article is not a ll encompassing and intended as an overview only. It should not be used for the purposes of diagnosis. Members or clients presenting with any symptoms should always consult a GP or other relevant health practitioner. The advice of a doctor, pharmacist or other suitably qualified person should be sought before taking any form of medication or treatment.

References For full references, go to fht.org.uk/IT-references Winter 2022

Learning

Reading room In the reading room section of the FHT website, you will find more than 450 therapy and business-related articles and research summaries, with more added regularly. Visit fht.org.uk/readingroom log in and have a browse. A time for Reflections

Looking for an article?

In 2019, Lina Ramchand, MFHT, published Reflections, a small booklet offering insights on how to rise above personal challenges that people regularly face. Some of the topics she covers include the value of commitment, the power of positive thinking, overcoming procrastination and the universal law of abundance. As many of her clients have found the booklet helpful, Lina wanted to share two excerpts with her fellow members: ‘Power of thoughts’ and ‘Faith and fear’. The article also provides details about Lina and where her booklet can be purchased, with a small percentage of the proceeds going towards the Children’s Literacy Charity. fht.org.uk/IT-139-RR-reflections

FHT Spiral No. 41

Have you ever thought to yourself, ‘I know I’ve seen an article about…’, but you can’t remember where? Here are three tips that might help you to find what you’re looking for: • Visit fht.org.uk and enter one or two key words into the search field at the top of the homepage (for example, aromatherapy [and] cancer). • Visit blog.fht.org.uk and again, enter one or two key words into the search box. • Browse recent back issues of International Therapist in the reading room section of the members area, at fht.org.uk/reading-room

Test your A&P knowledge and win a £20 John Lewis & Partners gift card

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The winner and one runner-up will also receive a copy of Theming Skills for Yoga Teachers, by Tanja Mickwitz, RRP £17.99 (singingdragon.com). Write your answers in a spiral from the start, working in an anticlockwise direction, towards the centre of the grid. The last letter of each answer is the first letter of the next. The shaded diagonal line will spell out a type of body tissue.

TO ENTER Simply email the word that appears in the diagonal shaded boxes to editor@fht.org.uk (writing Winter spiral in the subject box) or send your answer on a postcard to the usual FHT address. Please include your name, address and membership number. Standard competition terms and conditions apply (visit fht.org.uk/competitions). Entries to be received no later than 4 March 2022.

CROSSWORD CLUES 1. HDL is considered a ‘good’ type of this and LDL a ‘bad’ type (11) 2. This watery fluid passes through nodes (5) 3. Also known as ‘ginglymus’ or ‘ginglymoid’ (5,5) 4. Bone found on either side of the skull (8) 5. Go album (anag.), another name for

7 2

low back pain (7) 6. ___________ oculi, eye muscle (11) 7. Natural mouth lubricant (6) 8. Removed surgically, especially a limb (9) 9. Latissimus _____ (5) 10. Use fiction (anag.), able to pass eg. a disease from one person to another (10)

11. An event often associated with epilepsy (7) 12. Condition that can make skin itchy, dry, cracked and sore (6) 13. Medicines used to treat bacterial infection (11) 14. Type of ‘marks’ that can appear on the skin after sudden growth or weight gain (7)

Where’s the solution for spiral no. 40? We do not publish the spiral solutions in International Therapist, as completing spirals from the magazine can count towards your CPD (one CPD point per spiral quiz, a maximum of four points per year). Turn to page 53 for the name of the member who sent in the first correct spiral solution to be independently drawn from all eligible entries sent in by the allocated closing date for spiral no. 40 featured in issue 138 (Autumn 2021).

Winter 2022

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New products

Aimed at children aged five to 10, the first part of this book by expert child psychologist Dr Karen Treisman is an illustrated therapeutic story about Binnie the Baboon, with a focus on worry and anxiety. This is followed by a wealth of creative activities and photocopiable worksheets for children to explore issues relating to anxiety, worry, fears, and stress, and how to find ways to understand and overcome them. The final section of the book is full of advice and practical strategies for parents, carers, and professionals on how to help children to start to understand why they experience feelings of anxiety, and what they can do to help reduce and navigate it. This activity book, published by Jessica Kingsley Publishing, is complemented by a standalone picture book of Binnie's story. RRP: £22.99 (176 pages), available from uk.jkp.com

MINDFUL PURE ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND BY BASE FORMULA Mindful Pure is a warm, aromatic, deeply calming blend, to ground and soothe the senses and relax the mind and body. With frankincense, lavender sage, spike lavender, clary sage, sage dalmation, patchouli and petitgrain, this blend is ideal for supporting mindfulness practices and meditation, whether you’re a complete beginner or seasoned professional. It will help calm the nervous system and encourage clarity and self-awareness, supporting a deeper practice for those who practice regularly. For those who don’t, it can help encourage a deep sense of peace, calm, stability and wellbeing that regular mindfulness and meditation can bring. RRP: £7.20 (10ml), available at baseformula.com

DERMALOGICA SMART RESPONSE SERUM

BINNIE THE BABOON ANXIETY AND STRESS ACTIVITY BOOK BY DR KAREN TREISMAN

Winner of Woman & Home Beauty Awards – Best Beauty Innovation 2021, Dermalogica’s Smart Response Serum contains ingredients that are ‘switched on’ when they detect certain changes in the skin and work to reduce four common symptoms - redness, dehydration, dark spots and wrinkles. Among other ingredients, the serum contains gallic acid from Japanese cornelia cherry, to help soothe skin and reduce the appearance of redness; mannose-6-phosphate, to help smooth and firm the skin; hydrolysed wheat flour, rich in arabinoxylo-oligosaccharides, to brighten skin and help reduce the appearance of dark spots; and oligosaccharides from hydrolysed beta glucan, to help the skin maintain optimal hydration levels. RRP: £130 (30ml), available from dermalogica.co.uk

New products

4 3 A look at some of the latest products that might be of interest to our members... HOT STONES FROM PHYSIQUE

Physique Management have some great new hot stones to add to your kit. The Physique Mushroom Hot Stone is a trigger point massage stone, requiring only gentle effort when using during treatments. It’s the perfect tool for pointed pain relief and trigger point therapy for neck points, palms, back, legs and shoulder muscle points (£11.99). And Physique’s set of two Pressure Point Hot Stones (pictured above) have been ergonomically designed and expertly shaped for deep tissue massage. Ideal for trigger point release, sports therapy and remedial massage, this set is also particularly effective on rhomboids, splenius capitis and for meridian tracing (£11.99). Available at physique.co.uk

THEMING SKILLS FOR YOGA TEACHERS BY TANHA MICKWITZ

Considering yoga philosophy, mythology, poses, and nature, Theming Skills for Yoga Teachers provides guidance in how to skillfully theme yoga classes with greater depth and give students meaningful ways to integrate yoga into their lives beyond the mat. The book encourages autonomy of interpretation while also providing questions and exercises at the end of each chapter to help inspire ideas and form a synergy of practical application and creativity. This book allows both yoga teachers and trainees to create more meaningful yoga sessions and hone their teaching ability to provide a more memorable and holistic learning experience. RRP: £17.99, available at uk.singingdragon.com

Please note that product descriptions featured on these pages are provided by the supplier/manufacturer. 54 International therapist

Winter 2022

Competition

Competition Combat dry skin this winter with one of 10 Weleda Skin Food Body Lotions Ten lucky winners will each receive a Weleda Skin Food Body Lotion (200ml), which retails for £14.95!

very body needs a hero! Inspired by Weleda’s original Skin Food, which was first launched in 1926 and is still a bestseller today, this gorgeous new Skin Food Body Lotion provides intensive, long-lasting moisture, offering immediate comfort to dry or stressedout skin. It’s easily absorbed and relieves the feeling of tightness, leaving skin soft, supple and soothed, with a subtle sheen but no feeling of stickiness. Made with key botanicals packed with effective plant actives and a

natural fragrance synonymous with the iconic Skin Food original, this deeply nourishing lotion is a delight for all the senses. The vegan formulation is NATRUE-certified natural and 79% of its all-natural ingredients are organic quality. The fully recyclable lightweight bottle is made from recycled PET (RPET) for added sustainability. This truly is comfort food for skin and 10 lucky FHT members have the chance to try some! For more information about Weleda and to buy their products, visit weleda.co.uk

Competition winners International Therapist, Issue 138

To enter, please answer the following question: When was Weleda’s original Skin Food cream first launched? A) 1921 B) 2021 C) 1926

Simply email your name, address, membership number and answer to editor@fht.org.uk, typing ‘FHT competition’ in the subject box. Alternatively, send your answer and details on a postcard to: FHT competition, FHT, 18 Shakespeare Business Centre, Hathaway Close, Eastleigh, SO50 4SR The closing date is 4 March 2022. For full competition terms and conditions, visit fht.org.uk/competitions

Winner, receiving a set of Physique bolster cushions, massage oils and a Therapist Thumb massage tool: Hilary Livesey, AFHT Runners-up, receiving a Physique bolster cushion: Jilly Newnham, MFHT Ian White, MFHT

Apologies & Corrections We Viewpoint (Issue 138, page 12): ‘2021 FHT Student of the Year’ should read ‘2020 FHT Student of the Year’. An Interview With… (Issue 138, p20): ‘Chief Executive Director’ should read ‘Chief Executive Officer. Research (Issue 138, page 51): the myofascial release image should be credited to Amanda Oswald, founder of the Pain Care Clinic. Our sincere apologies for any inconvenience this has caused to our members and those individuals directly affected.

Winter 2022

Do we have your latest email address? Are you receiving our regular FHT News and FHT Education Extra newsletters, providing up-to-date information and advice, as well as upcoming training and CPD opportunities? If you have opted out or not been receiving these, make sure we have your latest email address by visiting fht.org.uk/email

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Illustration: Shutterstock

Spiral quiz (p57): Winner, receiving a £20 John Lewis & Partners gift card and a copy of The Thriving Giver, by Sarah Kuipers: Gill Greenwood, FFHT

Continuing Professional Development

CPD questions Below are questions relating to key articles in this issue of International Therapist. To gain three CPD points (unless otherwise stated), answer one or more questions relating to the same article, using a minimum of 300 words in total. If you don’t think the questions are helpful, feel free to pose your own, to any of the articles featured in the magazine. For more information about how to gain CPD points by reflecting on your favourite articles, visit fht.org.uk/cpd

Top

reasons for being an FHT member

1 Professional status and recognition. 2 Campaigning, promoting and protecting your interests as a professional therapist. 3 Professional representation. 4 The industry’s leading professional therapist magazine.

One of the most common symptoms of long COVID is chronic tiredness/ fatigue. Discuss how you would support and adapt your treatments for a client presenting with this symptom.

came about many centuries ago, in response to the needs of those travelling along the trade routes. Provide the historical background to one or more therapies you offer.

8 FHT branded products and member discounts on therapy supplies.

9 Free listing and personal profile on the FHT’s Therapist Register 10 FHT is a not-for-profit organisation run by therapists, for therapists.

EXPRESS YOURSELF (P28-30)

Sarah Kuipers explains how expressive writing is a useful tool for calming anxiety and processing thoughts and emotions. Do a little research and summarise any studies you find that have looked at the health benefits of expressive writing.

LASH PERFECT (P38)

In her article, Lucy Trend explains how Thai foot massage

Aftercare advice is an essential part of prolonging the life of a client’s lash treatments. What tips and advice would you offer clients after having false eyelashes applied?

2022 Annual membership fees FHT Member: £85 FHT Fellow: £105 Student Member: £50* Friend of FHT: £55 Overseas membership: from £95 Qualified Combined Medical Malpractice, Public and Products insurance: from £131.81 56 International therapist

6 Discounted continued professional learning. 7 The UK’s largest local group network.

A number of survey respondents indicated that they provided selfcare techniques to clients instead of a hands-on treatment. Discuss why you think that may have been and under what circumstances you would do the same.

A THAI TREAT FOR THE FEET (P22-24)

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

SPORTS INJURIES AND FASCIA (P40-42)

In her article, Amanda Oswald outlines four MFR techniques to address two common injuries. Outline other techniques that can be used to support clients with the same injuries. T For more information about how to gain CPD points by reflecting on your favourite articles, visit fht.org.uk/cpd

For membership and insurance information or an application pack, visit fht.org.uk or call 023 8062 4350. FHT is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Ref: No. 502095

*Includes case study insurance cover. Terms and conditions apply.

Illustrations: Shutterstock

SOFTLY, SOFTLY (P14-17)

Winter 2022

Training

Education Matters In this new regular, we aim to cover hot topics within therapy training and share success stories

foreword by FHT’s CEO, Monica Price, who also invites those involved in therapy training to tell her ‘What matters to YOU right now’? Education matters is the perfect title for this new section of the magazine because education really does matter. It’s exactly what underpins best practice in the next generation of therapists, as well as postgraduates looking to expand their skillset. Even as someone not directly involved in education, I know that the pandemic has had a huge impact on therapy training providers and therapy training standards. Lockdowns and government restrictions have meant empty training couches for months on end, followed by limitations on the number of students that can be safely taught in one class. It’s meant additional costs, to ensure appropriate COVID-19 measures are met. It’s meant apprentices being let go by salons that have had to close their doors or couldn’t afford to keep them on. We’ve also seen a really worrying surge in online courses for highly practical skills and this is a worry in an industry that is mostly unregulated. While these are obviously bigger issues we need to address as an industry moving forward, we do also have to celebrate some of the positives that have happened in the world of therapy education, despite COVID. This includes the launch of a new apprenticeship in Wellbeing and Holistic Therapy, for which I’d like to say a big thank you to FHT Vice Presidents, Gerri Moore and Judith Hadley, who helped to develop this alongside other industry stakeholders. And Winter 2022

we are also starting to see an increase in the number of CPD courses and webinars that focus on making therapy services more inclusive. I’m proud to say that FHT ran two Unconscious Bias webinars, available to both FHT members and staff, in January 2021, and Ana Bott, FHT’s Inclusive Therapist of the Year 2021, has co-written and lectures on the world’s first LGBTQ+ inclusive healthcare course for manual therapists (look out for more information about Ana’s work in a future issue of IT). But what I really want to know is, what does it look like on the ground? From the inside? If you’re involved in therapy education, what’s important to you right now? Is there anything as a professional association we can do to help support you and your students? I can’t make any promises but I’d certainly appreciate your candid feedback and if it’s in FHT’s power to help you with something, we will. At the end of the day, we all have a vested interest in making sure the public have access to the very best therapists this industry has to offer. And please share your success stories with us, too. We want to know about students and staff who have excelled and gained recognition for their achievements. About new training premises being built or extended. About new partnerships and projects getting underway, where your students are supporting people or businesses in their local community to gain valuable experience. Or maybe you’d like to see something else on this page, that I haven’t mentioned. Please get in touch with me at mprice@fht.org.uk writing ‘Education matters’ in the subject box and let me know what matters to you. T

My favourite teaching quote... From Monica Price

‘Education is empowerment’

Have your favourite quote featured here by emailing it to editor@fht. org.uk Please write ‘my favourite teaching quote’ in the subject box and tell us who the quote is by, in the body of your email.

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Courses

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

A message from Gemma Craggs, FHT's new Education Executive FHT hosted courses give you the opportunity to develop your skill set and grow your treatment offering. The courses gain you one continuing professional development (CPD) point per hour and FHT members benefit from a discount of at least £10 on each course! Take a look at some of the courses we’re hosting. Visit our website to find more information on prerequisites, finer details and to discover further courses before securing your place. Couch required Model required

And just like that… 2021 has been and gone! With a new year comes new opportunities and a great chance to turn a page and look forward with optimism and motivation to try new things in the year ahead. I am excited to be taking on the Education Executive role this year and am looking forward to bringing lots of new courses and topics to our education programme, to offer you a varied selection of training and learning opportunities to suit your interests and learning styles. As always, our education programme allows you to develop your skillset and grow your treatment offering. The courses gain you one continuing professional development (CPD) point per hour and as an FHT member, you benefit from discounted course prices. For those in the south of England, why not come along to our ‘How to Grow Your Business and Watch it Bloom’ seminar, delivered at our headquarters by FHT’s CEO, Monica Price! This seminar will get you inspired to spring into 2022 with new skills, and aims for how you can set your business up for its best year yet. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn first-hand how Monica has built a successful therapy practice, network with other therapists and build your own business. Please visit our website to find more information about prerequisites before you book, as well as other courses coming up in the near future.

FHT WEBINARS Get instant access to a selection of past FHT Webinars on topics ranging from sciatica to stretching and postural assessment. Each one-hour webinar gains you 5 CPD points alongside a reflective activity. At just £9 for FHT members, this is a great way for you to develop your knowledge at a time and place that is convenient for you.

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

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Courses

HOW TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND WATCH IT BLOOM FHT’s CEO, Monica Price, will be showing you how to grow your client base, develop your business and build your bookings in 2022. These past two years have been challenging and it is time to have a fresh start and look ahead at what the new year can bring. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to network with fellow therapists and learn new business skills. Come along to be motivated for your best year yet. This seminar will cover: n Why should clients choose you? n IT skills to build your profile n Tips on how to effectively market your business n Social media skills n Customer service to gain loyal clients n The benefits of successful networking n And more! Dates: n 27 January, Southampton n 1 February, Southampton Prices start from: £30

DETOX MASSAGE Learn this massage treatment which helps detoxify the body and discover the emotional links and areas of the body linked to digestion. Course dates: n 31 January, Virtual Prices start from: £90

HORMONES, MENOPAUSE AND ESSENTIAL OILS This course will identify how certain essential oils can bring about balance and harmony to the human being by supporting the hormonal system. Course date: n 5 March, Portsmouth Prices start from: £100

OSTEOPATHIC TECHNIQUES – SPORT AND SPINE Learn the most useful osteopathic soft tissue and articulation techniques and how to personalise your treatments for different clients. Course dates: n 5 – 6 March, Leeds n 19 - 20 March, Brighton Prices start from: £160

Winter 2022

CHAKRASCENSION™ LEVEL 1 - FOUNDATION LEVEL Learn how Chakrascension™ energy therapy was developed and gain in-depth information on the chakra system. Course date: n 2 April, Swindon Prices start from: £100

EAR CANDLING Learn how to safely and effectively provide an ear candling treatment and discover it’s history, benefits, contraindications and more. Course date: n 9 April, Dorking Prices start from: £100

CHAKRASCENSION™ 2 PRACTITIONER LEVEL CORE POSTURAL ALIGNMENT Learn about physiological efficient posture (PEP) and how the gravitational field can alter this to the detriment of our wellbeing. Course date: n 18 - 20 March, Middlesbrough Prices start from: £300

Learn how to give Chakrascension™ treatments and how to train others in Chakrascension™ Foundation Level. Course date: n 28 – 29 May, Swindon Prices start from: £200

EMM-TECH SHORT COURSE Discover how the EMMETT technique addresses pain and body movement and learn eleven moves from the EMMETT technique’s practitioner course. Course dates: n 19 March – Guildford n 15 July - Penrith Prices start from: £100

NEW VISION THERAPY WORKSHOP 1 – FOUNDATIONS FOR HEALTH Understand more about how important our central nervous system is to our wellbeing and learn techniques to restore balance. Course date: n 26 March, Bristol Prices start from: £130

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

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News

Industry news

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

A tribute to Wendy Arnold botanica2022 and ICAN join hands in May 2022

It is with great sadness that on behalf of her family, we write to inform our members that Mrs Wendy Arnold, Senior Fellow of the FHT, passed away on 23 December 2021. For more than five decades, Wendy was a well-known and highly respected member of the FHT and wider therapy community. She originally trained as a beauty therapist in the early 1960s and was in fact one of the very first students to graduate from Du Barry International, founded in 1962 by Mr Wallace Sharps, who was also the founder and President of the FHT. Over the years, Wendy went on to excel as a professional therapist, salon owner and training provider and throughout her career, shared Mr Sharps’ passion for promoting and maintaining high standards

and professionalism within the therapy industry. When Mr Sharps passed away in 2005, Wendy stepped in as the new President of FHT and gave her all to the role, ensuring that members continued to receive the same level of support and representation championed by her predecessor. Even when she retired from the industry, Wendy continued to show her support for the FHT by staying in regular contact with staff members and writing in to International Therapist magazine, to comment on various issues affecting her fellow members. Wendy will be sadly missed by all those who knew her. On behalf of us all at the FHT, thank you for everything, Wendy. May you rest in peace.

The renowned botanica conference series that showcases aromatherapy and herbal therapeutics is celebrating its 10th year with a special online event on 20-22 May 2022. In partnership with the recently launched International Clinical Aromatherapy Network (ICAN), botanica2022 has additional cutting-edge networking features built into its busy virtual conference and international trade show. Organiser and host of botanica2022 and ICAN, Rhiannon Lewis says, ‘Due to the ongoing uncertainties with international travel restrictions, botanica2022 will be a fully online event. What this means is that the conference can be further enriched in terms of content with even more lectures from world experts, a busy virtual trade show and a palette of dedicated networking opportunities that would not otherwise have been possible in a physical event’. The theme for botanica2022 of PAST-PRESENT-FUTURE provides the opportunity to consider the place of both aromatherapy and herbal medicine through the lens of the past, be inspired by current work from around the world and look ahead to the opportunities and challenges that the aromatherapy and herbal professions face. Participants can show their interest via the botanica2022 website and will receive news when the event opens for ticketing n botanica2022.com

Penny Price Aromatherapy’s continued commitment to essential oil safety and quality Penny Price Aromatherapy is committed to the safe and proper use of essential oils for all, which is why under the current changes to the Classification, Labelling and Packaging of Substances and Mixtures Regulations, they have added warning symbols to their essential oils. To allow space for this, their naturally farmed essential oils will now be supplied in a box and have child-proof lids. Customers can be assured that Penny Price Aromatherapy essential oils are still of the same high quality, sourced from the same suppliers, and are still COSMOS and ATC approved. Safety and quality – a winning combination for all. n Available from penny-price.com Winter 2022

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Certificate in Song Therapy “A modern therapeutic approach to well being through music and song”

Multi Award Winning National Massage, Beauty & Holistic Training School Come & Join The Thousands Of Therapists & Complete Beginners We Train Every Year n 60+ Professional, Accredited, Certified and Insurable Massage, Beauty & Spiritual Venue Courses n 20+ Venues UK, Scotland & Ireland n Excellent Online Professional Courses Manual/Videos/Tutor Support n Professional Qualifications - We Train Bobbi Brown, Top Hotels/Spas, CH4 Make up Artists & Celebrities n NEW! Award Winning Online Platform; Hosting Your Courses To Sell For Your Business

The Song Therapy Network offers flexible online training to those delivering informal music making programmes in community social care education Transferable Skills Sensitive Creative Leadership Awareness Person Centred Thinking Philosophy Child Psychology Neuroplasticity Mindfulness Therapeutic Music Making Security Acceptance Self Worth Confidence Understanding Empathy Students sponsored by the NHS Local Authorities International Charities and other NGOs

Next Intake January 2022 info@songtherapy.net www.songtherapy.net

song therapy network west street

creative skills and learning

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

Award Winning Training School Visit Web Site for Regular Dates

Link, like & follow US

www.gatewayworkshops.co.uk

Are you seeing more clients with swelling?

Illustrated books for physical therapy, anatomy, complementary therapy, health & fitness

Do you need increased knowledge & skills? Have you heard of Lymphoedema but want to learn more? training@lymph.org.uk

The Lymphoedema Training Academy (LTA) is an international, multi award winning education provider. Our training is provided by a team of leading experts with over 250 years collaborative experience enabling the most evidence-based training in the field.

www.lymph.org.uk

@lymphtraining

FHT Accredited Courses by

Core Elements

Level 3 & 4 Sports Massage Therapy Level 5 Diploma in Sports & Clinical Therapy

A body of work for the body that works

www.lotuspublishing.co.uk

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CPD courses including: Electrotherapy, Manual Therapy & Joint Mobilisations, Rehabilitation, Dry Needling, Dry Cupping, Taping, and Clinical Yoga - Online Live CPD courses now available To find out more email: Dawn@coreelements.uk.com or visit: www.coreelements.uk.com

Winter 2022

Complementary Therapies in Cancer Care

Become a Certified Oncology Complementary Therapist 15% OFF ALL COURSES - until Jan 31st Use code 'backtotraining15' on Checkout

Adapt Your Therapies To Treat Patients With Cancer • Fully Accredited eLearning courses created from AWARD WINNING Cancer Care Workshop

• Suitable for Massage, Reflexology, Reiki Therapists & Healthcare Professionals • Learn in your own time, in your own home, at your own pace

CMY

• Become a certified and fully insured Oncology Complementary Therapist. www.butterﬂytouchtherapiestraining.com E: marie@butterﬂytouchtherapiestraining.com

ABSOLUTE AROMAS

Experts in Aromatherapy Since 1994 Absolute Aromas always ensures therapists can buy our products with confidence that they are of the highest quality. We offer an extensive range of 140 essential oils and a wide selection of carrier oils and base products, all of which are selected from only controlled and sustainable sources. Our products are tested for their quality and purity in-house, to ensure we offer only the best for our customers.

n Get in touch To see your advertisement in the leading magazine for therapists, contact us today: Stylianos Charalambous stel@centuryone.uk 01727 739 190

Winter 2022

Tel:+44(0)1420540400

www.absolute-aromas.com

Email: sales@absolute-aromas.com

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Guest column

and finally... Caroline Nokes MP discusses the menopause and the need for us all to reinforce it is not a taboo subject or something that should compromise livelihoods and wellbeing

arliament at its best is thoughtful, consensual and actually gets things done. This was evidenced at the tail end of October 2021 when Carolyn Harris MP (co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Beauty, Aesthetics and Wellbeing) secured government support for her legislative crusade to see the cost of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) reduced for menopausal women. If it was Davina McCall who taught us that it’s ok to talk about the menopause, it was my indomitable colleague from Swansea who saw that this public recognition came to fruition with a Private Members Bill. The Minister agreed that HRT should be prescribed in future by annual prescription, which could see the cost reduced from over £100 per year to less than £10. Carolyn was incredible at building a crossparty coalition of MPs, activists, journalists, celebrities and all-round stars, highlighting the immense impact the menopause can have on women. We have all learnt a great deal from her campaign, which has helped thousands of women to spot their own menopause symptoms and even made some off use brave enough to head of to the

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GP to get our own prescription for HRT, if that’s our treatment of choice. Away from the main chamber in Westminster, the Women and Equalities Select Committee, which I chair, has started its own inquiry into menopause and the workplace, to try to understand the impact it can have on women’s ability to continue with their careers. I am always very careful to say that not every woman will be negatively impacted by their symptoms and some may get away with none at all, but we wanted to understand what the impact was for those who experienced severe symptoms. I have been really grateful to organisations like Standard Chartered who commissioned their own research in this area, discovering that as many as 50% of women turned down additional responsibilities at work and up to 25% considered leaving altogether. As I said in the House in the debate held to mark World Menopause Day, that is promotions gone, careers gone, incomes gone. And these are women who in many cases are at (or approaching) the peak of their careers. Businesses cannot afford to lose their experienced female staff, and if they do, they also lose the role models for a whole new generation of young women.

I know that as therapists, many of you will be supporting clients affected by the menopause, and you may even be experiencing symptoms yourself. Between us all, we have to continue talking about the menopause, beat down the taboo that it has been for too many generations of women and in my view, we also need to talk about it as much in schools as we do periods and contraception. It is a simple fact that every woman and transgender man will go through the menopause at some point, so we need to make that as easy as we possibly can. Part of that is about making sure workplaces don’t just have policies in place, but these are acted upon and effective. My Committee is expecting to make recommendations to Government in the Spring, after we have heard from a wide range of experts and organisations. Some of the most difficult to read evidence so far has been from women who are so scared of potential repercussions from their employers that they have asked to remain anonymous. In this day and age, that really should not be an issue but sadly the spectre of gendered ageism still raises its very ugly head. What has really struck me is the number of women who have told us they have to resort to disability discrimination legislation in order to bring cases to tribunal. As I keep saying, the menopause is many things, but it is not a disability! At this stage I cannot predict what those recommendations might be, but it has given me a great insight into the challenges too many women still face, and a chance to bring about faster change. T

Caroline Nokes was elected MP for Romsey and Southampton North in 2010. Caroline is the Chair of the Women and Equalities Select Committee, having previously served in the Cabinet as Immigration Minister. She is also a member of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Beauty, Aesthetics and Wellbeing, of which FHT is an Associate Member. carolinenokes.com

Winter 2022

How are

you?

Please tell us in our 2022 FHT Member Survey Your feedback is really important to us, so that we can make sure we are providing you with the support and services you need as a valued member of the FHT. We’d be really grateful if you could take 10 to 15 minutes to complete our 2022 FHT Member Survey, so that we can learn what’s important to you and how you think we’re doing as your preferred professional association. As a thank you, you can opt into our free prize draw. One lucky winner will receive a £100 John Lewis & Partners gift card and a year’s free membership to the FHT, and five runners-up will receive a £20 John Lewis & Partners gift card.* Visit fht.org.uk/member-survey

*Entries to be received by no later than 18 February, 2022. A prize of equivalent value to the John Lewis & Partners gift card will be provided if the winning member you would International If therapist 67 Winter 2022 lives outside of the UK. Standard FHT competition terms and conditions apply - please see fht.org.uk/competitions. like a printed copy of the survey, please contact us by calling us on 023 8062 4350 or emailing info@fht.org.uk

Invented to reduce RSI on the therapist’s hands.

Why not offer your clients something different for 2022? Wavestone Therapies offer Accredited one day courses and online workshops. Why not learn a new kind of treatment, whilst protecting your hands? To learn more about the Wavestone visit www.thewavestone.co.uk

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International Therapist - Winter 2022

Articles inside

New products

Guest column... Caroline Nokes MP

FHT learning

NEW! Education matters

CPD questions

Medical A-Z – dementia

Ask an expert

News

Things for Winter

Research

Members news

Local groups

Seasonal nutrition

Viewpoint