International Therapist

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

The leading magazine for professional therapists

Spring 2021

fht.org.uk

Gentle slumber Penny Price looks at how aromatherapy can aid sleep

Sun protection – We take a look at the important topic of sun protection The longest nerve – supporting clients with sciatica

Issue 136

$

Software for people who care Cliniko is practice management software trusted by over 25k healthcare practitioners around the world. It has everything you need to manage and grow your business, all in one place.

Run your practice from anywhere on any device, without compromising on patient privacy. Easily add bookings to your business website, accept online payments, and enjoy digital patient forms and treatment notes. Cliniko can help you to do it all, from automating appointment reminders to hosting secure telehealth calls, and so much more.

Whether you’re running a practice on your own or managing a team, Cliniko is easy to use for all people who care.

Start your 60-day free trial at cliniko.com/international-therapist

2 International therapist

Spring 2021

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

The leading magazine for professional therapists

Spring 2021

fht.org.uk

Issue 136

Inside...

32

Spring 2021

13

Gentle slumber Penny Price looks at how aromatherapy can aid sleep

Sun protection – We take a look at the important topic of sun protection The longest nerve – supporting clients with sciatica

Cover feature Gentle slumber

Features

14

Aromatherapy and sleep Penny Price looks at how aromatherapy and different essential oils can help to aid sleep

38

18

41

Members' pages

The longest nerve Jane Johnson, FHT accredited course provider and physiotherapist, gives an insight into sciatica and how therapists can support clients living with the condition

Pushing back Parkinson's John Molyneux, 2020 FHT Sports Therapist of the Year, talks about his recent quest to support clients with Parkinson’s disease

42

Learning

32

Sun protection As we approach the warmer months, we take a look at the important topic of sun protection

44

34

Regulars

And our survey says...

We reveal some key findings from our 2021 FHT Member Survey

26

Mountains of life and business In this short book excerpt Maria Mason, FHT Vice President, shares an insight into team management at her award-winning salon, Beauty Time

37

Social prescribing Farrah Idris, MFHT, gives an insight into working as a link worker during the COVID-19 pandemic

38

Products from the heart Lucy Stevens, MFHT, shares the highs and lows of her journey in launching her own range of skincare

Spring 2021

Myofascial release at home Amanda Oswald, FHT accredited course provider, shares her secrets on how to work fascia into your self-care routine

Lessons of a lifetime A series of stories and learnings from our FHT Virtual Congress speakers about the year that has shaped us all

8 News update 10 Things for Spring 11 Top blog 12 Viewpoint 13 Essential oil profile – Marjoram 20 6 ways to 24 Ask an expert 30 Here for you 36 Local groups 48 Medical A-Z – Anosmia 52 A day in the life of… Stephanie Chaytor, 2020 FHT Beauty Therapist of the Year 63 Industry news 66 Guest column... Caroline Nokes MP

26 49 Members news 53 Competition 54 New products

21 FHT Virtual Congress 50 Research 56 CPD questions 57 Reading rooesm and spiral quiz 58 FHT learning 60 FHT accredited courses

10 International therapist 3

Power Up Your Practice with

Appointment Management SMS & Email Reminders Invoices & Payments Treatment Notes Reports & Analytics Telehealth

Reduce your no-shows, streamline your operations, and claim back your evenings.

Online Bookings Free Training Free Data Import Money-Back Guarantee

Start a Free Trial Now to get

50% OFF for 6 months From

£4

PER WEEK

with 50% offer

Loved and trusted by over 27,000 practitioners

4 International therapist

.com

Spring 2021

Letter from the editor

Federation of Holistic Therapists 18 Shakespeare Business Centre Hathaway Close Eastleigh Hants SO50 4SR T. 023 8062 4350 E. info@fht.org.uk W. fht.org.uk Editor Karen Young Deputy Editor Leanne Sheill Creative Director Peter Davies Designer Caitlyn Hobbs Advertising Leanne Rowley T. 01727 739183 E. leanne@centuryone.uk Deadlines – Summer 2021 (Issue 137) Editorial – 29 April Display adverts – 24 June Published – 16 July Senior management team Beverley Bartlett, Trevor Cleal, Jade Dannheimer, Julie McFadden, Annie Walling, Karen Young.

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.

Hello,

I

t’s hard to believe that this is the fourth issue of International Therapist that has been published since COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. I hope that despite the huge challenges it has placed on so many of our members, both personally and professionally, you are managing to stay safe and well and looking forward to treating clients in person again soon, if you aren’t doing so already.

While we’re not completely out of the woods yet, things are starting to look up and one thing that is becoming increasingly clear is that local communities need our members’ support, now more than ever, to help them get ‘back on their feet’, mentally, emotionally and physically.

This is a key message that we have been driving home to government officials throughout the pandemic and also during a recent panel event, Holistic Therapy: COVID-19 Reflections and Opportunities Ahead, hosted by the All Party Parliamentary Group for Beauty, Aesthetics and Wellbeing - you can find out more and watch a recording of the event on our blog (blog.fht.org. uk) by typing APPG-BAW into the search box.

As sleep is a cornerstone of good health and something that has been impacted in most people by COVID-19, our lead feature in this issue focuses on how aromatherapy can help to promote a good night’s slumber. We of course appreciate that lots of therapies can help to promote sleep, but as the contributor, Penny Price, is speaking on this topic at our Virtual Congress, it seemed a perfect opportunity to highlight how this modality in particular can be

helpful. And bearing in mind that our members’ health and wellbeing – and quality of sleep – is just as important as their clients’, Penny has kindly shared some recipes for you to try at home, if you ever experience sleep problems (see page 14 for more information and safety notes). Which then leads us nicely onto another self-help article in this issue: myofascial release at home, by Amanda Oswald (page 42).

Other features you can enjoy include a piece about promoting sun safety in clients as we approach the warmer months (page 32); how to support clients with sciatica (page 26); the highs and lows of launching a skincare range (page 38); and lessons learnt from COVID-19 by a number of our Virtual Congress speakers (page 44).

Enjoy and stay in touch!

Karen Young, Editor

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spring 2021

International therapist 5

President's welcome

Welcome

A

People have generally been feeling a bit down and I think a chance to treat themselves to some personal care will be greatly appreciated"

s each nation starts to ease its way out of the lockdown, we can all look forward to a brighter future, where life and work return to normal and we get to enjoy doing what we do best – socialising and connecting with other human beings, and sharing our experiences.

I think as practitioners we are likely to see a surge in work when our therapy doors are fully open again. People have generally been feeling a bit down and I think a chance to treat themselves to some personal care will be greatly appreciated. Clients are now feeling more empowered than ever to make decisions about their health and wellbeing and I think this is something that will help to drive therapy businesses forward.

For those of you who have enjoyed staying in touch with clients, family and friends online during the pandemic, I hope you will be making the most of our Virtual Congress taking place on 13 and 14 June this year.

There are now more than 50 seminars to choose from and at just £30 a ticket for both days (or £25, if you’re a student member), I think it’s a really cost effective way of gaining new knowledge from experts in our industry.

The other great thing about this online event is that you can access the seminars anywhere,

anytime, across the Sunday and Monday.

For more information, see page 21 or visit fht.org.uk/virtualcongress Finally, why not add entering one of our FHT Excellence Awards to your goals for 2021? You are of course welcome to focus on what you have done over the past year to help support clients during the pandemic, but you can also reflect on work that you did immediately prior. We’ve even added a brand new category this year – the FHT Inclusive Business of the Year award, for those members embracing inclusivity and diversity in their therapy practices.

Whichever category appeals to you, please don’t hide your light under a bushel.

Entering the awards gives all of us at the FHT a really good insight into the work you are doing a day-to-day basis, which helps us promote and really champion you and the therapies you practice at the highest level.

See fht.org.uk/awards for more.

Until next time, stay safe and well and I wish you all the best as you return to work.

Christopher Byrne, President

FHT Governing council President

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

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

6 International therapist

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

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

Mary Dalgleish ICHT (International Council of Holistic Therapists)

Judith Hadley ATL (Association of Therapy Lecturers)

Maria Mason HBEF (Health and Beauty Employers Federation)

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

Lay member

Helen Chambers (representing the interests of the public) Spring 2021

Harness the power of aromatherapy 100% pure essential oils | hydrolats | carrier oils pre-blended massage oils | cosmetic bases 10% off for registered FHT members* www.baseformula.com

*Visit website for more information.

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

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

in

f

Link, like & follow US

Award Winning Training School Visit Web Site for Regular Dates

www.gatewayworkshops.co.uk Spring 2021

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 International therapist 7

News

NEWS

The latest health, therapy and business news...

Building sustainability into hair and beauty

Scotland approves new MS drug Zeposia, a drug developed for adults with multiple sclerosis (MS), has been approved by the Scottish Medicines Consortium.

The medicine is administered as a tablet and works by retaining immune cells in lymph nodes. It is said to improve heart rate functionality and prevent the risk of an MS relapse by 38%.

According to the BBC, Scotland has the highest rates of people living with MS in the world, with around 15,700 patients seeking support for the condition.

The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has not approved the drug for use in England and Wales. A request for further evidence has been made prior to another review later in the year. n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-136-ms-drug

Experts at the University of Southampton are helping the hair and beauty industry to reduce its carbon footprint and cut costs.

Dr Denise Baden is working with beauty professionals to help them embrace sustainability and encourage their clients to save energy, water, and use fewer chemicals at home.

Through the Eco Hair and Beauty Project, Denise is working to identify key areas in which hairdressing salons could save energy.

Denise said, ‘Hairdressers and beauty therapists are in a unique position to combat climate change. As they chat to their clients, they have an ideal opportunity to highlight practical ways that individuals could adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.’ n Access the report at fht.org.uk/ IT-136-sustainability

Student nurse numbers rise in 2020 A review of the numbers of student nurses

by The King’s Fund has found a 25% rise from 2019 to 2020.

The increase in 6,000 students accepting a place onto nursing courses is said to be partly due to a boost in placement funding as promised in the NHS Long Term Plan, published in 2019.

The King’s Fund said, ‘the rise in student nurse places in 2020 suggests that NHS organisations feel more confident about offering additional placements and that the additional funding from central bodies is having a positive effect on the number of people in training.’ n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-136student-nurses

8 International therapist

Spring 2021

News

in brief The smartphone brand encouraging people to #switchoff Tech company, Vivo, has launched a controversial new campaign, #switchoff, to encourage users to turn off their devices and spend time with loved ones instead.

In their short video advert, Vivo show a family spending time at home but enthralled by their devices. To end the clip they pose the question, ‘Many of us spent 2020 together, but did we really spend time together?’

The campaign aims not to prevent people from using technology but to approach it mindfully and empowers people to choose their own breaks, referred to as #switchoff time. n Access the report at fht.org.uk/IT-136-switch-off

Biggest year for Veganuary movement The Veganuary movement, which encourages people to try going vegan for a month, has seen it’s ‘biggest year yet’ in January 2021.

More than 440,000 people signed up to try going vegan for the month, with one person signing up every three seconds.

Veganuary was launched in 2014 and the charity has now grown to offer an abundance of information, advice and recipes for all those thinking about changing their diet and lifestyle. n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-136-veganuary

Skincare line for men of colour launches

New funding to help schools open their sports facilities Sport England is investing £10.1M of government money to help schools open their facilities to the public after lockdown restrictions are lifted.

This funding comes in addition to £1.5 million awarded by the Department for Education to help schools deliver extra-curricular activities.

Schools Minster Nick Gibb said, ‘Keeping children and young people active has never mattered more. This investment in school sport and swimming facilities will boost the opportunities for pupils to stay physically active.’ n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-136-school-facilities

Ceylon, a skincare range designed specifically for black skin has been launched by entrepreneur and activist, Patrick Boateng.

Patrick created the brand after struggling with acne and hyperpigmentation. Ceylon is said to be the first product to be created with male dark skin in mind.

Patrick said that the dermatology industry suffers from racial bias. He said, ‘since it is largely built on the understanding of white skin, much of what we develop to treat skin disorders is a result of that.’ n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-136-skincare-line

Northern Ireland urged to create loneliness strategy The Northern Ireland Executive is being urged by the British Red Cross (BRC) to form a loneliness strategy.

According to a report by the charity, the negative impact of loneliness on mental health has soared since the pandemic with one in five adults (19%) saying that emotional support would’ve helped them while local restrictions were in place.

'The Longest Year: Life under local Spring 2021

restrictions' report identified two groups that are likely to be most affected, the ‘newly vulnerable’ and those ‘on the brink’, who are also likely to be struggling financially.

The BRC said that having a strategy in place will ensure that support is available for NI citizens in the long-term. n Read more at fht.org.uk/IT-136lonliness-NI International therapist 9

Things for Spring

Things for Spring “And blossom by blossom, spring begins”

Sign up for something new.

Consider the last time you took part in an event for charity, a new class or even had a spoken agreement with a friend. The act of signing up for something can create a kind of contract in our minds, a promise to ensure we will get there one day.

Whether it’s for this year or next, take the plunge and sign up to something new!

Get green fingered. Love spending time in nature? Whether it’s your garden or a window ledge in your home, check out our list of easy-torear plants for Spring at fht.org.uk/blog-plants

Feel inspired. Attend the FHT Virtual Training Congress on the 12-13 of June for a range of insightful seminars by our panel of expert speakers. Build your experience and enjoy learning from the comfort of your own home, visit fht.org.uk/ virtual-congress to book today.

Share your sensory know-how.

Aromatherapy Awareness Week takes place in June (8-13), a time to celebrate the power of essential oils and promote the benefits of aromatherapy. If you’re a qualified aromatherapist, you'll be able to download a range of resources from the members area of our website (fht.org.uk/members-area) from May. Celebrate other cultures. Eid al-Fitr is a Muslim holiday, also known as the ‘festival of breaking the fast’, which takes place on Wednesday 12 - Thursday 13 May. Carry out some research into the festival by speaking to friends or watching YouTube videos showing events from around the world.

Feel inspired to take part? Perhaps start by reflecting on the sacrifices of those who have taken part in Ramadan, maybe give to a charity as is common in Muslim culture and of course enjoy the celebrations as part of the day.

10 International therapist

Stand up against racism.

Tuesday 25 May marks one year since the death of George Floyd. The #BlackLivesMatter movement has encouraged us all to question the society that we live in and look at our own unconscious biases. Keep questioning, keep looking and keep demanding racial equality as we move forward in 2021. If you missed our ‘Accessible to all’ article published last year, which includes links to useful resources and FHT’s anti-racism commitment, visit fht. org.uk/accessible-to-all

Listen in. We are thrilled to share that we have recently launched the International Therapist podcast.

In our first episode of the Virtual Congress series, we speak to Marie Duggan from Butterfly Touch Therapies. fht.org.uk/ international-therapist-podcast

Connect with the child inside you.

In yoga practice, the purpose of the child pose is to help us reconnect with the child inside us. Give yourself permission to step away from your responsibilities for a while and enjoy being silly, whether it’s dancing freely, finger painting or climbing trees.

Welcome in Summertime. The longest day of the year falls on Monday 21 June, a day celebrated by cultures around the world. Say hello to summer by seeing in the sunrise, spending time outdoors and even giving an offering to Gaia, goddess of ‘mother earth’.

Did you know? 'Solstice' is derived from Latin and means 'the sun stands still'.

Spring 2021

FHT Blog

Top blogs

FHT regularly shares blog posts to keep members updated with the latest in the industry. We look at the most popular posts in recent months...

WORLD CANCER DAY 2021 Thursday 4 February marked World Cancer Day, a day to unite people, communities and countries to raise awareness and take action against cancer.

To mark the day, Cancer Research UK encouraged people to support their lifesaving research by wearing a Unity Band or by making a donation.

As part of the day, we wanted to recognise our members who support people living with and beyond cancer, and to say a big thank you for making a difference to the lives of so many.

The following articles provide examples of how complementary therapies can support people living with cancer, they are available for FHT members to view and download to share more widely. n In International Therapist Summer 2018 we published an article by Jane Sheehan, MFHT, about establishing a new delivery model for a complementary

therapy service based within an NHS palliative care unit. Jane discusses how complementary therapies can support adults living with cancer and how they can be integrated within a multidisciplinary team. fht.org.uk/IT-136-palliative-care n In 2014, Carol Samuel, FFHT, co-authored a study looking at how complementary therapies can benefit people after cancer. fht.org.uk/IT-136-after-cancer n Patricia McDaniel, MFHT, reflects on

working with clients affected by trauma and cancer in an article published in International Therapist Winter 2016. fht.org.uk/IT-136-cancer-and-trauma Please join us in raising awareness by using the hashtag #WorldCancerDay2021, by sharing the resources available at cancerresearchuk.org and the above articles, to raise awareness of the benefits of complementary therapies in supporting cancer care.

CELEBRATING RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS DAY Each year on the 17 February, individuals, groups and workplaces from around the world are encouraged to carry out a small act of kindness.

The aim is to spread joy far and wide, with no other goal than to make someone else happy.

As part of Random Acts of Kindness day, we asked FHT staff to send a small gesture to one another, all created for free or relatively cheap.

Coronavirus restrictions have meant that staff had to think outside the box a little more this year and send a virtual gesture, here are some of our favourites…

n A PowerPoint presentation with a kind message at the end n A video featuring handpainted stones n A series of cute baby animal photos n A promise of a cup of coffee when FHT staff return to the office.

Staff commented on the idea to say that it put a smile on their face and that it was a ‘lovely start to the week’.

n Artwork made with natural materials n A thoughtfully put together Spotify playlist n A short ‘Which cat are you?’ quiz n An outdoor swimming journal

Spring 2021

International therapist 11

Have your say

Viewpoint Microbes feature 'Many thanks for the informative article on microbes, I was pleased to see the feature looking at the importance of PPE - exactly what I feel has been needed at the current time. This type of copy coming from a trusted membership body is vital.

‘Regarding diversity, I can’t help agreeing with your member Farrah Idris (who contributed to Viewpoint in the last issue) that an opportunity was missed. It was a fantastic chance to gather experiences, insights and issues being faced by therapists from BAME backgrounds.’ n Debbie Thomas, MFHT

(Issue 135) Safe Practice

Safe Practice

Microbes and massage Anne Ferguson, Peter Mackereth and Ann Carter take a look at infection control and massage.

O

ver the past year, COVID-19 has rightly dominated our concerns about staying safe and preventing cross-infection, but there are other potentially nasty bugs that we need to bear in mind as professional therapists.

Microbes include bacteria, viruses, protozoa and fungi, which are part of the world’s ecosystem — from the forest floor to the human gut — and we would not be able to survive without them. While we generally think of microbes as a problem in health and therapy care, the majority are harmless; their presence can even have benefits, such as being protective or taking part in the production of essential nutrients and digestive processes.

However, some microbes are known as ‘opportunistic’ and a few as ‘pathogenic’, meaning that they can cause disease, particularly if the immune system is unable to mount a successful defence.

The terms ‘endogenous’ and ‘exogenous’ are used to describe where microbes are found. Endogenous are those found in and on the body and are referred to as ‘normal flora’, such as Staphylococcus epidermidis, 38 International therapist

Corynebacterium spp.

Exogenous micro-organisms live outside the body, typically in water, soil and buildings. Examples include Legionella pneumophila, which can be found in plumbing and air conditioning systems, and Tetanus bacilli, a micro-organism found in soil.

The chain of infection The way in which micro-organisms spread is referred to as ‘the chain of infection’ and consists of the following: A source and/or reservoir; An exit point; A means of spread; An entry point; A susceptible host (for example, someone with a compromised immune system).

■ ■ ■ ■ ■

The ‘source’ is where the micro-organisms live permanently, for example, the human body or the environment. Reservoirs are where they can temporarily survive and multiply, such as standing bowls of water.

Experts often use the terms ‘source and reservoirs’ interchangeably, however, it is useful to note the distinction. A source is

where a micro-organism normally resides, but as therapists, we can create reservoirs unintentionally through unsafe practices, for example, preparing lotions and creams with unwashed hands.

Like any living organism, they require a food source and water, so the potential reservoirs already mentioned in this article provide the perfect environment for microorganisms to survive. Some are tougher than others and can even survive in dry conditions, on bedding and surfaces, such as Staphylococcus aureus, a micro-organism found on the skin of approximately 30% of the population. As the human body has entry and exit routes, these can be used to identify ways of breaking the chain of infection. For example, with a Norovirus — a virus that can be spread when people have diarrhoea and/or vomiting — entry can be via the mouth, through contaminated food and drink (oral route) or from contaminated hands or utensils.

Indirect is most commonly via the hands, which is why hand decontamination is so important in preventing the spread of infection. Areas of frequent surface contact, such as light switches, curtains, keyboards, handles, containers and worksurfaces provide opportunities for the spread of micro-organisms.

Droplet is the spread of micro-organisms by talking, sneezing or coughing. The droplets land either directly on someone else or on objects that we touch, which enable indirect spread to ourselves or others. An example of indirect spread is the common cold, which is spread not only by people coughing and sneezing, but also by contamination of objects we touch, hence the need to wash our hands.

Airborne is when the infectious particles are so small, they can be carried widely in air currents and stay in the air for hours, as happens with the Tuberculosis bacilli.

Method of spread

Multidrug-resistant organisms

The method of spread is described as indirect and direct contact, droplet and airborne.

Direct spread involves body-to-body contact, as with skin diseases such as impetigo.

Factors that increase the risk of severity of infection are the ease of spread of the organism, its virulence and the susceptibility of hosts. Multidrug-resistant organisms

Winter 2021

Winter 2021

make it difficult to provide invasive investigations such as arthroscopy, surgery, cancer treatments and accommodating the person in clinical and therapy settings.

For example, a hospital or treatment room would need to be deep cleaned if it had been used by a patient with Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA). Staphylococcus aureus has two forms – Meticillin-sensitive (MSSA) and Meticillin-resistant (MRSA). It is estimated that about 1% of the population carry the resistant strain, MRSA. Samples are taken for screening from the nose, throat, armpits and perineum, as the organism is generally found in these areas, though not every site will necessarily be colonized. However, if the nose and nasopharynx are implicated, this is generally taken as evidence of carriage.

Hands can be temporarily contaminated, as can wounds, and this can eventually develop into colonisation and then infection.

In the context of providing massage in hospitals, hospices and domiciliary care, there is the possibility of therapists encountering clients with medical devices, stomas, wounds, ulcers or damaged/broken skin. These clients have reduced barriers to microbes entering and causing infection,

which might be life threatening. Additionally, anything that weakens the immune system puts the patient at increased risk, including: Being elderly or very young Underlying disease, e.g. cancer or chronic respiratory conditions Medication that interferes with the normal functioning of the immune system, e.g. chemotherapy or steroids Irradiation, e.g. radiotherapy Surgical wounds Medical devices in place, e.g. catheters, feeding tubes ■ Obesity, due to skin folds and poor mobility.

■ ■ ■

■ ■ ■

Infection can be localised to a defined area, such as a wound, or the nasopharynx, in the case of the common cold. With sepsis, the infection spreads from the initial site to the whole of the body, causing an overwhelming immune response. If this happens, the patient will become acutely unwell and can develop signs of circulatory shock and possibly organ failure. The most common sites where these serious infections originate from are the respiratory and urinary systems.

Other sources are surgical sites, skin and wounds, medical devices, central  International therapist 39

Editor’s comment: Thank you for your feedback, Debbie, and we welcome BAME members to send in their comments and articles (see fht.org.uk/it for guidance on submitting articles).

Online chat Instagram International Therapist Winter 2021 @the_wellbeing_alchemist Loving the Wild Swimming feature! @love_reflexology Your front cover artwork is beautiful x

LinkedIn @Rachel Hunter I’m doing #100smiles as part of random acts of kindness day, after being given someone’s paracetamol in petrol station whilst struggling with a tooth infection and they didn’t have any in stock. The retail assistant took hers out of her pocket and gave them to me! The world needs more kindness, so I decided to do something over the next year to (hopefully) bring a smile to 100 people’s faces!

12 International therapist

Twitter Pro-touch awareness month @MaryAtkinsonChi A big thank you to staff at @fht_org for dealing with my queries. There is so much to be thinking about at the moment and I feel grateful to be so well supported by my professional body. @massage4dementia I attended 'Unconscious Bias' #Training with @FHT_Org & @theewgroup. I relate with #excluding microaggressions: paying more attention to phone than the person, bias helps us survive but that should be balanced with deep listening, engagement & selfawareness #tuesdayvibe #equity

Free Facebook group to support therapists ‘I felt inspired last year when I was nominated as a finalist for the FHT Complementary Therapist of the Year award with my business Rebalanceyou - receiving that news during the first lockdown was such a boost and has encouraged me not to give up. I wanted to keep trying to help others with their health and wellbeing wherever I could, so along with a friend we have set up a free Facebook group offering support to all.

‘We have called the group ‘Holistic Health 2021’ (not to be confused with a popular event in the therapy calendar with the same name!). The holisitc view is that our mind, body and soul are intimately interconnected. With experts in different areas, the group will cover topics such as anxiety relief, positive awareness, happiness, gaining control, mental calm, grounding, breathing techniques, energy therapies, nutrition and mind and body connections.'

Visit fht.org.uk/hh-2021 to join. n Ali Skanderowicz, MFHT

Please keep in touch with us...

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

Spring 2021

Essential oil profile

Marjoram

Sweet marjoram is a bushy, perennial herb that typically grows up 30cm in height, with hairy stems, green oval leaves and clusters of small white flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region, the essential oil is steam distilled from the plant’s leaves and flowering tops. It has a warm spicy aroma, is yellow to pale-amber in colour and has a middle note.

Sweet marjoram has been used since antiquity for culinary purposes, with the ancient Greeks also using it in perfumes, cosmetics and medicines. It is said to have been used as ‘strewing herb’ – tossed across the floor of dwelling places and other buildings to mask unpleasant odours.

Therapeutically, sweet marjoram is valuable for calming the mind and emotions, easing painful joints and muscles, and for soothing menstrual cramps. It may also be helpful for balancing the circulatory system, as a digestive stimulant and for respiratory infections.

Therapeutic properties

Key uses

Analgesic, antibacterial, anti-infectious, antispasmodic, antiviral, calming, carminative, expectorant, hypotensive, neurotonic, sedative, stimulant (digestive), stomachic, vasodilator.

Warming, calming

Indications

Botanical family Lamiaceae

Chemical composition Alcohols – monoterpenols (up to 50%): terpinen-4-ol, α-terpineol, linalool Hydrocarbons – monoterpenes (up to 40%): γ-terpinene, α-terpinene, sabinene, p-cymene Esters – linalyl acetate Other – (Z)-sabinene hydrate 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.

Spring 2021

Agitation, anxiety, arthritis, bronchitis, bruises, colds, coughs, diarrhoea, flatulence, flu, grief, headaches, hypertension, insomnia, menstrual cramps, muscular aches/ pains/ spasms, rheumatic pain, rhinitis, sinusitis, stress-related conditions.

Blends with Basil, bergamot, cypress, lavender, lemon, orange, rosemary.

Safety data Some sources indicate that sweet marjoram should be avoided during pregnancy while in Essential Oil Safety, Tisserand and Young (2014) state that sweet marjoram has no known hazards or contraindications, and the essential oil does not appear in

tables (11.1 and 11.2) that list essential oils to be avoided or restricted by any route during pregnancy and lactation.

Research Biofilms and infection Biofilm is a term used to refer to a colony of micro-organisms that have grouped together in a sticky layer and adhered themselves to a surface, which can include human tissue.

They are often resistant to conventional antibiotics and are said to contribute to more than 80% of human infections (Lagha et al, 2019). Recent laboratory tests indicate that Origanum majorana and two other essential oils (Thymus zygis and Rosmarinus officinalis) displayed powerful antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against Methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus

isolates (Ben Abdallah et al, 2020) and urinary tract infections caused by Escherichia coli (Lagha et al, 2019).

Menstrual cramps A randomised, double-blind clinical trial (Ou et al, 2012) showed that an unscented cream containing a blend of lavender (Lavandula officinalis), clary sage (Salvia sclarea) and marjoram (Origanum majorana), which all contain analgesic properties, reduced the duration of menstrual pain experienced in patients diagnosed with primary dysmenorrhea. Those taking part in the trial massaged the cream into their lower abdomen daily, from the end of the last menstruation to the beginning of the next. T

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

For references and further reading, visit fht.org.uk/IT-references International therapist 13

Illustrations: Shutterstock

a

M

(Origanum majorana)

Aromatherapy

14 International International therapist therapist 14

Spring 2021

Gentle slumber Penny Price looks at the importance of sleep and how aromatherapy and different essential oils can aid a good night’s slumber.

T

he pandemic has been a very anxious and stressful time for us all and has no doubt impacted everybody’s quality of sleep at one point or another. It is also evident that sleep disturbance is a common symptom of ‘long COVID’, a term used to describe signs and symptoms that can last weeks or even months after the infection itself has passed (NHS, 2020; NICE, 2020).

Now, more than ever, it is vital that both we and our clients find ways to get a good night’s sleep in order to allow our bodies and minds to recover from all that we have to process on a daily basis. A growing number of studies have shown that aromatherapy can effectively improve both sleep quality and quality of

Spring 2021

life, and by combining the therapeutic benefits of massage, positive touch and essential oils, it is one of the best complementary health disciplines to do this.

Sleep and health The power of sleep should not be underestimated – our bodies need it just as much as air and food in order to function properly. It is while we are asleep that the body heals itself, restores its chemical balance, and the brain forges new thought connections and memories. Studies have shown that a good night’s sleep can help to support our immune system, regulate our weight, boost mental health and increase fertility (NHS, 2018). 

International therapist 15

Aromatherapy

Conversely, getting less than seven or eight hours of sleep on a regular basis can lead to health consequences that affect us on a physical, mental and emotional level. For example, regular poor sleep puts us at an increased risk of serious medical conditions such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes. It can even shorten our life expectancy (NHS, 2018).

Noticeable signs of sleep deprivation include: n Excessive sleepiness n Frequent yawning n Irritability n Daytime fatigue n Irrational fear n Irrational overreaction to everyday events n Increased stress levels n Digestive problems n Disruptions to the hormonal system n Aches and pains, and more.

Often, aromatherapy gets overlooked as an intervention to encourage and promote good sleep. Essential oils are fairly inexpensive and easy to introduce to a daily and nightly routine, and with an array of essential oils that can help a person to relax, mentally and physically, there are plenty to choose from. Using aromatherapy can make it easier for you and your clients to fall asleep, stay asleep and sleep more soundly.

Below are four essential oils I recommend to others and use myself to help improve sleep, relieve stress, lift mood, and boost performance…

Essential oils to aid sleep

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) Lavender is analgesic (pain-relieving), anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic (anti-cramp) and hypotensive (balances high blood pressure) and is mainly used for treating headaches, burns, and many other ailments.

However, true lavender (not to be confused with lavandin oil) is best known for its sleep inducing and stress-relieving properties, which are truly amazing.

True lavender that is grown at high altitude (around 1,600 metres) maximises the sun’s ultra-violet rays to produce an oil that has a wide range of 16 International therapist

therapeutic effects. It is also distilled for up to five times longer than lavender oil used for perfumery, to ensure that all the volatile molecules are present and active.

The profile of a high-quality true lavender essential oil will contain up to 50% linalool (alcohol) and 50% esters.

Linalool is a very gentle molecule that helps to relieve stress and calm the mind, while esters are known to be calming, sedating, anti-inflammatory and cell-regenerating. Studies using lavender oil as a sleep aid show great improvement in sleep and also fewer trips to the toilet during the night (Azri et al, 2010).

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Bergamot essential oil has a beautiful, citrusy aroma and is produced by simply pressing the fruit’s peel and filtering it before use, making it very natural and pure. The oil is uplifting, calming and digestive, and extremely good for a range of skin problems, including eczema.

Bergamot essential oil contains all of the same key constituents as lavender, so all of the key notes, but just not in the same order! A typical bergamot profile might contain 45-65% linalool, along with nerol and geraniol (all alcohols) and 30-60% linalyl acetate, as well as geranyl acetate and neryl acetate (esters), making it regenerative, anti-stress, anti-anxiety and good for helping to promote sleep.

It does surprise some people that this oil, which has a top note, is so relaxing, but it truly is. A study recently published in Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine showed that a blend of bergamot, lavandin and ylang ylang significantly improved sleep quality in cardiac patients compared to a placebo oil (McDonnell and Newcomb, 2019).

Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) Ylang ylang is an essential oil distilled from the plant’s beautiful creamyyellow blossoms.

Traditionally, it was used as an aphrodisiac, as an anti-anxiety medication, a sedative and also as a relaxant. Today it is used to increase

self-confidence, reduce stress and anxiety, and help with hyperactivity and decreased sex drive. The main calming ingredients in ylang ylang are again from the alcohol and ester groups, making it calming, sedative and anti-stress. There is also a proportion of sesquiterpenols in the oil’s profile, that add to its calming and sedative effects.

Research has shown that inhaling a blend of lavender, ylang-ylang, and bergamot once a day for four weeks reduced anxiety and increased quality of sleep. It was found to lead to reduced blood pressure, pulse rate, subjective stress and state anxiety levels in clients with hypertension, as well as reducing nocturnal urination, compared to the placebo and control group, which resulted in deeper and more satisfying sleep (Hwang, 2006).

Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) Geranium essential oil has a wide healing arena, with anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, sedative, anxietyreducing, and muscle-relaxing effects (Sulong, 2006). It also facilitates blood circulation and eases breathing. I use it most for skincare as it is adaptogenic – this means that the oil adapts to the type of skin it is applied to, so it can help to balance dry, oily, combination, troubled or acne-prone skins equally well. It also helps to regenerate the skin.

Kim et al (Kim et al, 2011) reported that geranium essential oil is one of the most effective essential oils for reducing menstrual-related anxiety and, most importantly, disturbed sleep from hot sweats, cramps and bad dreams.

Apart from its pleasantly sweet and floral aroma, geranium essential oil is excellent as an aid to help ease stress and insomnia. With a varied blend of chemistry, including alcohols, esters and aldehydes, geranium is able to help calm and relax, bringing on a feeling of well-being. As with other oils featured in this article, the alcohol and ester molecules will sedate, calm and help to dispel stress and anxiety, while the aldehydes are anti-inflammatory and relaxing. Used in the bath before bedtime, it can encourage a good night’s sleep and help you to sleep for longer.

Spring 2021

Aromatherapy

SAFETY NOTE If you have particularly sensitive skin, a history of allergies, are taking medication or you are pregnant, speak to a professional aromatherapist before using essential oils. Never ingest oils or apply neat (undiluted) essential oils to the skin.

How to use these oils at home Here are a few recipes if you would like to try these essential oils for yourself: Relaxing Vaporiser Blend 4ml Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) 2ml Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) 2ml Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Blend together in a 10ml amber glass bottle with dropper lid and use around eight drops in a vaporiser a couple of hours before bedtime.

Sleepy Bath Foam 98ml Bath foam base 15 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) 15 drops Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) 15 drops Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) 15 drops Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Mix the bath foam base with the essential oils in a mixing bowl, then using a funnel, transfer into a 100ml bottle with a pump top. Use two to five pumps in each bath and soak for 20 minutes.

Night Cream 99ml Moisturiser cream base 8 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) 8 drops Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) 7 drops Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) 7 drops Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) Mix the cream base and essential oils in a bowl and transfer to a 100ml jar Spring 2021

with lid when fully whipped. Use every evening after cleansing. This recipe can also be used as a hand cream.

You can also put two drops of lavender on your pillow before bedtime or use the vaporiser blend (again, two drops is enough) to help you sleep.

Supporting your clients If you are a qualified aromatherapist, all of the above recipes can be made for your clients. A thorough consultation would be required to check the suitability of each essential oil and to also check the reasons for lack of sleep, which they can then be guided on. For example, n Eating too close to bedtime or an unhealthy diet n Drinking too much caffeine later in the day n High alcohol consumption n Sleeping in a cluttered room n Sleeping in a room that is too hot and not aired properly n Sleeping on an old or uncomfortable mattress n A regular habit of ‘late to bed, late to rise’ n Stress and anxiety, or a ‘chatty’ head at bedtime n Newborn baby in the house n Misuse of essential oils – more than two drops of lavender on a pillow can actually prevent sleep, or the client may be using a cheap brand that is not real lavender.

Keen to learn more?

Penny will be giving a seminar on aromatherapy and sleep at this year’s FHT Virtual Congress – for more information, see pages 21-23.

As qualified and professional aromatherapists, I think that during this pandemic there are many people we can help by using essential oils. A good night’s sleep is the best medicine to help prevent stress and anxiety, as well as the fear of getting this virus. In fact, by boosting our immune system, it may even help to protect us against COVID-19. A good diet and exercise also does help a great deal. I wish you all success in your treatments — take care, stay safe and sleep well. T

Penny Price is the founder of Penny Price Aromatherapy (penny-price.com) and Penny Price Academy (aromatherapy-courses.co.uk) and grew up with aromatherapy. Her mother, Shirley Price, began her career in aromatherapy in the 1970s and Penny followed in her footsteps, training in 1981 and then teaching from 1983.

International therapist 17

Survey

And our survey says…

We reveal key findings from the 2021 FHT Member Survey.

Survey

hank you to the 748 members who kindly responded to our 2021 FHT Member Survey.

This annual survey is really important to us all at FHT, as it gives us an insight into what matters most to you as a member. This in turn helps us to improve our membership services, so that we can continue to represent you in the best way possible.

T

Issues that concern you most as a therapist

About you…

Other concerns included:

Employment status

Not surprisingly, the responses we received in this year’s survey had a strong focus on COVID-19, with members expressing particular concern about what the future holds; the governments’ lack of understanding of the therapy industry (something we have worked hard to change); professional therapists not having the same work rights as statutory regulated health professionals; and the impact of COVID-19 on income, the wider economy and, of course, the health and wellbeing of their clients and the wider population.

n Lack of recognition from the medical profession and other professionals.

Self-employed n Keeping skills up to date and staying compliant (visit our website at fht.org.uk for information about our 2021 Virtual Congress and Working for yourself often allows greater flexibility but it can result updates to our coronavirus statement and FAQs). n Maintaining high standards in professional practice and training in feelings of isolation, and particularly during really challenging times, such as the pandemic. Please make the most of the virtual (belonging to the FHT and being listed on our Accredited Register helps meetings on offer from our local groups until they are able to run to set our members apart from those who are poorly or non-qualified). face-to-face meetings again (fht.org.uk/local-groups) - it's always good to connect with others who understand how you feel.

What causes and values are most important to you?

Just under 300 urvey respondents answered this question, with common themes including… n Offering a good service to clients and helping to improve their Pre-COVID, where do you provide treatments? health and wellbeing. The words professional, honesty, integrity and kindness were frequently used.

In your own home 38% n Sustainability, environmentally-friendly and ethical products and practices also featured highly, alongside animal and human welfare.

In your clients’ home 33% n Diversity and inclusivity is important to our members too, including In a health and wellbeing centre 14% making services accessible to those who may be in most need of treatments but are less able to afford these.

In your own business premises 13% n This year, there was an increase in the number of members who referred to the importance of supporting mental health and In an office or other business premises (e.g. corporate massage) 6% wellbeing, no doubt due to the impact we know COVID-19 is having on people from every walk of life. n Promoting self-help and self-care in clients.

89%

What’s important to you as a member?

98%

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

95%

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

95%

95%

95%

Being kept up to date with industry news via International Therapist The above results show how much you value robust industry standards, professional magazine FHT provides an education programme for CPD

Being kept up to date with industry news online

representation and keeping up to date with the latest information and skills.

18 International therapist

94%

FHT holds the largest Accredited Register independently approved by the PSA

Spring 2021

Survey About International Therapist Most popular regulars

72% Ask an expert 70% Research 69% Industry news 62% Essential oil profile 62% CPD questions 58% Medical A-Z

Most useful feature articles

73% Treatment / therapy-focused articles 68% General wellbeing 63% Self-help 60% Case studies 57% Advanced / technical articles

98%

of you feel that the overall quality, illustrations, design and articles are good or very good

About your clients…

The most popular treatments with clients

52% Reflexology

51% Body massage

82%

of you read each issue of International Therapist for 21 minutes or more (with 30% reading IT for more than an hour)

You describe your clients as people seeking support with

76% Long-term health conditions 62% A preventative approach to health 62% Relaxation or pampering 33% Amateur or recreational sports activities 9% Professional sports activities 8% Aesthetic improvement COVID-19 and government restrictions permitting, you regularly support clients

34% Aromatherapy

28% Reiki or healing

83% With stress and anxiety 72% With low back pain 67% With joint problems/mobility issues 48% Who regularly engage in exercise or sport 42% W ith a diagnosed mental health condition (e.g.

28% Sports massage

39% W ho care for family and friends 35% W ho are pregnant or struggling to conceive 34% W ho are health professionals (e.g. nurses) 32% W ith sports-related injuries 28% A ffected by cancer 14% W ith skin problems affecting their quality of life/

depression, dementia, PTSD)

27% Indian head massage

27% Remedial massage 15% Facials (beauty)

Statistics like these really help us to highlight the vital role our members have to play in supporting health and wellbeing.

Results from our 2020 FHT Member Survey – and our special Covid-19 surveys – were shared with each UK government in support of our members returning to work as soon as possible.

Go to page 53 to see our winner of the £100 John Lewis & Partners gift card and a year’s free FHT membership, and our runners up who have won a £20 John Lewis & Partners gift card.

Spring 2021

International therapist 19

Illustration: Shutterstock

body esteem

Advice

W

hether you have had a digital presence for years or are new to the world of DMs, hashtags and reels, going back to basics may just be the transformative exercise your social media needs.

6

You likely know what you hope to achieve through your business, but have you considered the purpose of your social media activity? To help you create an effective digital strategy, it is important to take some time to get to the root of what you want to achieve. More followers or clicks to your website are of course a key goal, but what action do you want someone to take when they get there?

A few ideas could be, ‘I want to grow my client base', ‘I want to connect with a community of therapists’, or ‘I want my platforms to promote the importance of therapies'.

ways... to make social media work for you

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

Decide who The first step is pinpointing your ideal followers as these are the people who will help you meet your goal. We’ve outlined a few questions below to help you build a better picture of them...

• Who are they?

• Do they live locally?

• What is important to them?

• What platforms are they likely to be using?

• Whose social media accounts do they follow?

• What is it they might like about those accounts?

• What are their likes and dislikes?

• What language might they use?

• What causes are they passionate about?

From here you can understand the most effective ways to connect with those people. For example, if you are looking to broaden your client base, you’ll want your followers to live locally.

Try searching for local businesses or locations and following people who regularly visit. If you’re looking to connect with other therapists, joining communities such as an FHT Local 20 International therapist

Support Group Facebook page might be a good place to start!

The perfect profile The moment your soon-to-be followers hit your profile they should feel a connection with the imagery, content and language used. Create a mood board inspired by your research and regularly check-in on your feed to ensure you are keeping up appearances.

Tip! Ensure your business information and call to action is clear and at the top of your profile.

A content schedule Meet your new best friend. Begin by mapping out key dates in your diary and events of importance to your ideal follower. Consider content ideas based around your diary, taking a think-outside-the-box approach and considering how you could differ the content on each platform.

You don’t have to rigidly stick to the schedule, if something more topical comes up simply move your idea to another day or ditch it all together.

Some online planners we love are Asana, Trello and Todoist.

Maintenace Your content schedule will go a long way towards helping you produce regular content but it’s just as important to be active on your profile and maintain communication with your followers. Comment on other people’s posts, follow new people and look for ways to make your social media useful to you. That could be using your social media as a place to connect with others, a place to learn or to simply provide some daily inspiration.

Tip! Try little and often, five minutes at breakfast, lunch and after work should help you keep a routine.

Review Book out regular time to look at your social media activity and make sure you haven’t strayed too far from your initial purpose. If you have, consider why that might be and set some rules to ensure it doesn’t happen again, unless there's a good reason you have changed direction.

Most importantly, give yourself a pat on the back for all your hard work and the improved engagement on your channels! T Spring 2021

Illustration: ©Shutterstock

Know your purpose

Training

Join us for our first ever Virtual Congress!

T

13 – 14 June 2021

he FHT is delighted to announce that, for the first time, our annual training congress will be hosted virtually, allowing you to learn from leading experts in the therapy industry, wherever you are.

The 2021 FHT Virtual Congress is a two-day event which features expert speakers,

insightful semainars and show discounts to enjoy in the comfort of your own home.

Your ticket will gain you access to the whole twoday event and will unlock more than 50 seminars to broaden your knowledge, gain valuable CPD and to take the next step in your therapy career. Take a look through what our event has to offer...



Get your ticket today!

Your ticket will gain you access to all areas for the full two-day event.

Ticket prices: £25 FHT Student Members £30 FHT Members £45 FHT Non-members Learn more and book your ticket today at fht.org.uk/virtualcongress

Spring 2021 21 International therapist

InternationalSpring therapist 21 2021

Training

Virtual Congress journal You will be provided with a Virtual Congress journal, which will be key to making your virtual visit a great success.

The journal will help you to plan out your day, jot down points of inspiration, reflect

Live webinars

Access anytime seminars

Our live webinars will give you the chance to engage with our expert speakers. Learn alongside other attendees and bring the live show feel to your front room!

No two webinars will run at the same time which means you won’t miss out. You can discover our live webinar schedule online to start planning your day. Webinars include: • Rising to the challenge: how we adapted to the needs of NHS patients during the pandemic • Laughter yoga • Medical and scientific jargon explained

Our access anytime seminars range from 30 minutes to one hour in length and will allow you to schedule your day to suit you. Whether you are an early bird, or a night owl, the flexibility of the event allows you to be inspired by expert speakers at any point over the two days. This also means that you can tailor your day to suit your interests, with seminars on specific modalities, business, specific conditions and general interest topics.

Our modality specific seminars will equip you with new knowledge, understanding and insights into different pathways within your complementary, sport or beauty therapy. Just some of the topics being covered in the modality seminars include:

on what you have learnt and plan positive steps in your personal development and therapy career. Complete your journal throughout the congress to achieve your annual CPD requirement as an FHT member, all from this one event.

Complementary therapy seminars • A matter of some gravity • Palliative care and complementary therapy • Aromatherapy and sleep • Basic reiki working with family and friends • Chi Medics anatomical reflection theory • Complementary therapies in cancer care for massage, reflexology and reiki practitioners • Crystal reflexology fusion • Energy therapies – history, philosophy and ethical practice • Examination of six essential oil constituents • Face reading basics for your professional toolbox

Show offers Why not break up your CPD day with some retail therapy? Your ticket will unlock exclusive show offers for you to stock up on your therapy essentials or to treat yourself with discounts that you will not want to miss.

22 International therapist Spring 2021

With over 50 seminars featured within the programme, take a look at our webpage to discover them all: fht.org.uk/virtualcongress

InternationalSpring therapist 22 2021

Training

• Holistic approach to health •H ow sound can help us tune in to ourselves and raise our vibration •H ow to hack the nervous system all of the time, every time • I ntroduction to colour, crystals and flower essences •K inesiology five-element (5E) massage introduction • Lava shells •L iving in the now: tuning forks and internal time consciousness • Massage and microbes

• Pregnancy massage incorporating shiatsu and acupressure • Question time - an audience with Jane Sheehan and her gurus • The power of movement • The story massage programme positive touch with storytelling • What do your clients need to recover from post viral fatigue?

Sports therapy seminars • Chair yoga for all • Foundations in exercise rehabilitation • Introduction to trigger point therapy • Kinesiology tape - myth or legend?

• PFP and ITB in runners • Running gait analysis • The role of the deep spinal stabilisers; 'the forgotten five!'

Beauty therapy seminars •H ow to make a 100% natural foundation and concealer • How to start your own product making business Business seminars Our business seminars give you the opportunity to step back and take the time to enhance your business skills. What has the past year taught you? And what steps can you take to lead your practice to success? Take time to evaluate with our

23 International therapist Spring 2021

business seminars, which include: • Using a wellbeing toolkit for self-care in the workplace • Heart centred growth - both personally and professionally • Growing your business online: the essentials Seminars on specific conditions Our general interest and specific conditions seminars educate you on topics which would be useful to therapists across the board. Learn some of the fundamentals in therapy practice, gain a deeper understanding into various conditions and ailments and develop a wider perspective on the therapy industry. These seminars include: • An engineering perspective on post-traumatic stress • Gut and environment and their role in chronic musculoskeletal conditions • Living pain-free: myofascial release exercises for all • Plantar heel pain General interest seminars • Anatomy of the foot and ankle • How important is good posture?

• Hypnotic language skills for therapists • Relaxation, meditation and mindfulness for therapists T

InternationalSpring therapist 2021 23

?

Q&A

Ask an expert

O

ne of my former clients is taking legal action against someone regarding a health issue I supported them with. I’ve received a letter from the client’s solicitor, asking for copies of their treatment notes.

From a data protection point of view, should I share this information?

A: Julie McFadden, FHT’s Registrar and Compliance Manager, says: By law, anyone can ask you for a copy of information that you have relating to them. This is referred to as a ‘subject access request’ (SAR) and in this instance, its sounds as if the client has given their solicitor permission to request

information from you on their behalf.

There are a few limited exemptions, but on the whole, you are legally obliged to supply the required information within one calendar month of receiving the SAR. While we strongly advise any member receiving an SAR to refer to the Information Commission Officer’s website and helpline for guidance, in the instance outlined above, it is likely that you will need to: n Contact your client to check they have appointed this solicitor and are happy for you to provide copies of the information requested. n When you are pulling together the client’s information, read the solicitor’s letter carefully, to ensure that you aren’t

supplying above and beyond what is requested. n Send your client the information you have gathered before passing this on to the solicitor, and ask the client to confirm, preferably in writing, that they are happy for you to send this securely to the solicitor. n Keep a record of what you sent the solicitor and the date it was sent.

not guarantee immunity; n Your client hasn't noted any unusual symptoms or changes in their health since the vaccine; n You are following government guidance for close contact services, applicable to the country where you live/ work; n You have carried out a risk assessment; n You note on the client’s records that

you have considered/carried out all of the above.

In the event that we learn new information from reliable sources and our guidance on this matter changes, we will of course let members know. *Visit fht.org.uk/NHS-vaccination to be redirected to the relevant link on the NHS website.

On the ICO website, you will find some user-friendly guidance, called ‘How to deal with a request for information: a step-bystep guide’ (you can access this page via fht.org.uk/IT-136-ICO).

You can also contact the ICO helpline for further guidance on T. 0303 123 1113 or use the ‘live chat’ service available on their website at ico.org.uk

I

f my client has had a COVID-19 vaccine, how long will I need to wait until I can massage them?

A: FHT’s Editor and Communications Manager, Karen Young, says: As far as we are aware, there is no official guidance on this matter. However, as long as your client has not suffered any side effects in the days immediately after receiving their vaccine (please see the NHS website* for more information), we cannot see any reason why treatment should not go ahead. Please note that this is providing that: n Your country’s government has clearly indicated that personal care/ close contact services, can now fully resume (if not and the government has indicated that treatments can only be carried out under very specific circumstances, please ensure that you are following current guidance and restrictions in place); n You are doing pre-COVID checks to ensure you and the client do not have any COVID-19 symptoms – it is important to remember that having the vaccine does 24 International therapist

Spring 2021

?

Q

A client recently asked if diffusing essential oils to help her sleep at night might be harmful to her dog. Can you offer any guidance?

A: Aromatherapy product supplier, Base Formula, says: Diffusing essential oils around dogs is generally considered safe, in low concentrations, if you follow these simple guidelines: The first thing to remember when diffusing oils is that your dog has an incredibly powerful sense of smell.

They have about 300 million olfactory receptors compared to humans, who have around five million. What may smell subtle to us may be overwhelming for your pet.

It’s also important to consider that your dog may not have the same tastes as you. Dogs are similar to humans in that they have an amazing innate wisdom, so allow them to use that wisdom and give them the freedom to either inhale or avoid a particular scent. You can do this by simply leaving the door open in the room you’re in, so your pet can choose to leave. If your dog regularly chooses to leave the room when you diffuse an oil, you should either stop using that oil or avoid diffusing it when your pet is around.

When diffusing, use a water-based diffuser and ensure that it is in a pet-proof location so your dog can’t knock it over, accidentally get it on their coat or skin, or ingest it. We’d advise using only three to four drops of oil for short-bursts of time. Some

I

’ve recently joined – do you have any information about massage and cancer?

A: Leanne Sheill, FHT’s Deputy Editor, says: We’re often asked if we have information or articles on a particular topic and there are actually a few simple ways that you can Spring 2021

Q&A

electrical diffusers have intermittent settings or an auto-shut-off function, which are ideal.

Always use good quality, 100% pure essential oils and avoid buying cheap oils that may have been adulterated with potentially toxic chemicals. Make sure that the room is also well ventilated to prevent a build-up of vapour. When diffusing a new oil, observe your pet’s behaviour to check for any reaction.

If your dog shows any sign of sensitivity, stop diffusing immediately and get them some fresh air. Seek professional advice if you are concerned.

There are various oils listed as being potentially toxic to dogs. These include (but aren’t limited to): cassia, cinnamon, clove, citrus (d-limonene), oregano, pennyroyal, peppermint, pine, rosemary, sweet birch, tea tree, thyme, wintergreen and ylang ylang.

The risk is generally reported as being from topical or oral exposure in inappropriate doses, but we would prefer to err on the cautious side and recommend avoiding these oils in diffusers, too.

Signs of toxicity can include skin irritation, hair loss, hypersalivation, coughing or retching. In more severe cases animals may experience behavioural changes, depression,

search for this on our website (fht.org.uk).

The first, and probably quickest, is to use the search box that appears at the top of our homepage. As well as pinpointing any articles we have uploaded to our online reading room, putting in one or two search words will also bring up relevant training courses, job opportunities, and other related items featured on our website.

Another option is to go straight to the reading room, which you will find in the

loss of control of over movement, tremors, seizures, breathing difficulties, vomiting or diarrhoea.

You should avoid using essential oils around puppies less than 10 weeks old, with pregnant or nursing dogs, or dogs with known breathing difficulties. Seek professional advice prior to using oils if your dog is epileptic, prone to seizures or is taking any medication, as certain essential oils may be contraindicated.

NB: Using essential oils to treat dogs and other pets is a controversial topic and there are conflicting views. While the holistic veterinary community embraces their use for animal health and wellbeing there is little research and hard evidence to back up their purported benefits.

When used improperly, essential oils can be extremely dangerous for pets and we do not advocate applying them topically or administering them internally without professional guidance.

Members’ area. Here you will find an article archive, where we have uploaded more than 450 individual articles and research items; an International Therapist archive, where you can browse through previous issues of the magazine, online; and links to recent e-newsletters we have sent out to members.

Finally, there is the FHT blog (fht.org.uk/blog), where again, you can use a search box to find relevant posts. T International therapist 25

Advice

26 International therapist

Spring 2021

Advice

The longest nerve

Jane Johnson, FHT accredited course provider and physiotherapist, gives an insight into sciatica and how therapists can support clients living with the condition.

S

ciatica is a term used to describe irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve. This is the largest nerve in the body, running from the lower back to the buttock, down the leg and into the foot. It is formed from the lumbar nerves L4 and L5 plus the sacral nerves S1, S2 and S3. Irritation or compression of the nerve affects its function (see item A in Table 1).

Spring 2021

Anyone can get sciatica but the condition mostly affects people in their 40s or whose jobs require working in physically awkward positions. The most common cause of this condition is a herniated disc in the lumbar spine but anything that compresses or irritates the nerve can cause it to occur (see item B in Table 1).

It is a painful condition, but pain is not

the only symptom (see item C in Table 1). Whilst radicular (radiating) pain can occur from the lower back running to the bottom, down the back of the leg and even into the foot or the toes, in severe cases people may also experience muscle weakness and problems walking. The pain is often described as ‘shooting’, or as 'a painful numbness’. It can significantly  affect a person’s quality of life, for

International therapist 27

Advice

SCIATICA – THE BASICS A. Sciatic nerve function n Provides motor function to the hamstrings and adductors. n Provides indirect motor function to calf muscles, anterior lower leg and, some of the intrinsic foot muscles. n Provides indirect sensation to the posterior and lateral lower leg, and the plantar foot.

B. Common causes of sciatica A herniated or bulging disc in the lumbar spine n Spondylolisthesis – misalignment of one vertebrae relative to another n In an older person - spinal stenosis n Lumbar or pelvic muscle spasm n Inflammation n A ‘mass’ - malignancy or an abscess n

C. Symptoms of sciatica Pain in the buttock n Lumbrosacral radicular lower limb pain n Sensory disturbance - numbness, hot/cold/tingling/burning sensation n Muscular weakness n Gait dysfunction n Reflex impairment n Oedema n

D. Medical and non-medical support for clients with sciatica Understanding the condition n Pain medication n Continuing with everyday activities n Taking regular exercise n Using heat or cold for pain relief n In the side-lying position, placing a pillow beneath the knees n Gentle massage n Corticosteroid injection n Surgery n

example, they may be unable to sit or stand for more than a few minutes, may have pain bending over to brush their teeth or they may be unable to sleep due to pain. For many people this affects their ability to work, causing them to be on sickness absence.

How a therapist can support a client with sciatica Sciatica is a condition for which hands-on treatment of the local area may not be appropriate. However, there are many other ways in which a therapist can support someone living with sciatic pain.

The first thing to do when treating a client with sciatica is to quantify as best you can, 28 International therapist

how much pain the person is in and to what level the condition is affecting their life. One way to do this is to ask them about their symptoms using a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) or a Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Both the VAS and the NPRS have been adopted as recommended outcome measures by the Faculty of Pain Medicine and the British Pain Society (British Pain Society, 2019).

A VAS and NPRS are similar in design and require the client to score their pain along a horizontal line (scale), with the far left anchor (often marked as ‘0’) representing ‘no pain’ and the far right anchor (often marked as ‘10’) representing ‘worst imaginable pain’ or similar.

The reason for finding out your client's

level of pain is because it helps when setting a treatment goal, as well as for documenting whether their pain reduces and by how much. For example, if a person reports that their buttock and hamstring pain is 9/10 on a NPRS, one of your goals might be to reduce buttock and hamstring pain from 9/10 over a two-week period.

People sometimes feel that their pain is unrelenting, but you can help them to identify those times when they may not have 9/10 pain (for example), and which factors aggravate or ease their symptoms. Helping a client to identify that there are times when they may be pain free, even if for only a few minutes, can be comforting for them.

There is a lot you can do to help a client with sciatica (see item D in Table 1). The first thing to do is educate them about the condition. This could be as simple as describing it to them, or you could show them a video such as the one made by the NHS (we have provided a shortcut at fht.org.uk/nhs-video). You can help your client to set realistic expectations by communicating to them that for most people, symptoms will resolve within four to six weeks. Understanding a condition can help a person feel less anxious about it, which in turn may help them better manage their symptoms.

Where pain is severe, taking medication is important and over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories can be helpful. Sometimes medication to treat Spring 2021

Advice

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

Some people find specific back exercises useful - the NHS have a list of simple exercises you can share which can be found at fht.org.uk/nhs-exercises.

Where the symptoms of sciatica are not improving, a local corticosteroid injection may be required, and in rare cases, surgery is needed.

Conclusion

nerve pain or to relax muscles is prescribed by a GP. It is obviously outside the scope of the massage therapist to recommend medications, but they can encourage a client to take medications that have been prescribed and to advise them to follow their GP’s advice regarding how and when to take their medication.

Other ways your client could selfmanage their symptoms is to use hot or cold applications, whether that’s a wheat bag, for example, or a topical cooling spray.

The application of heat can help to reduce muscle spasms and cooling can help reduce the pain.

Massage can be helpful for clients where there is muscle spasm. Gentle massage to the area of spasm using simple effleurage and petrissage strokes may be all that is required to sooth the area. When resting in the prone position, a client may need to place a pillow beneath their abdomen to reduce the degree of lumbar lordosis that naturally occurs when lying face-down.

If they are unable to rest this way, a side position could be used. If the pain is acute, it is not appropriate to massage the area of the symptoms, instead massaging the hands or feet can be soothing and help reduce Spring 2021

overall muscle tone.

Gentle passive stretching can further reduce the spasm and it can be helpful to demonstrate simple stretching techniques to your client. Where the sciatica affects the buttock and hamstring, simple buttock and hamstring stretches could be used, for example.

Perhaps the most important way you can help your client is to encourage them to maintain their daily activities as much as they can and to take regular exercise.

This is advocated by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, along with manual therapy, including massage (NICE, 2020). Short walks within a person’s pain tolerance are advocated as prolonged rest should be avoided.

Whilst hands-on therapy can be helpful for people with sciatica, it is equally important for us to check in with the client on a weekly basis to determine whether there has been any improvement in their symptoms and function.

Important questions to ask are whether they have managed to keep mobile and whether they have managed to walk around — even if it is simply within their own home. Knowing that there is someone checking up on you can help a person to stick to a routine, even if that is as simple as walking around their living room for 10 minutes, three times a day. Movements like stretching their arms above their head and simple shoulder rolls can also help to ease upper body tension that might accrue from sitting still.

Asking a client to keep a diary that focuses on what they can do, rather than what they can’t, can be very motivating. It can help them to focus on the fact that they may be experiencing a reduction in pain and an improvement in function, even if these are only slight. At a time when many of us cannot physically get our hands on clients, we can still provide care and support via video consultations or over the phone. This may be invaluable for those clients who live alone and have no one else to talk to, when their pain may be all they have to focus on. T

Jane Johnson is an FHT accredited course provider and a physiotherapist with a passion for helping therapists to gain confidence in hands-on techniques. A massage and sports massage therapist for many years, she appreciates the value of touch and thrives on sharing the many tips she has picked up over the years. Jane is the author of six books for therapists: Soft Tissue Release, Therapeutic Stretching, Deep Tissue Massage, Postural Assessment, Postural Correction and The Big Back Book; Tips and Tricks for Therapists. You can contact Jane on her Facebook page @thefriendlyphysio

International therapist 29

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

Representing you during COVID-19 Throughout the pandemic, we have been working hard to support our members’ and represent your interests at government level. As well as regularly updating our website and sending direct emails to keep you informed of any changes that will impact your practice, other recent ‘behind the scenes’ activities include: n Providing statistics, information and case studies to different UK governments to highlight the valuable contribution our members make to health and wellbeing and to facilitate their return to work as quickly as possible. n Writing letters to various MPs and authorities, calling for urgent action and support for the industry. n Speaking to Cabinet Officers and Ministers about the important role that professional therapists have to play in supporting those whose health has been adversely affected by the pandemic, which will simultaneously help to take pressure off the NHS. As a core member of the Integrated Healthcare Collaborative, we also supported letters sent to Health Ministers across the UK (12 February), asking them to grant dispensation for complementary, traditional and natural healthcare therapists to support NHS staff during COVID-19 restrictions (read more at theihc.org.uk/news).

Please keep an eye on our online coronavirus pages for the latest information at fht.org.uk/coronavirus

30 International therapist

2021 FHT Excellence Awards open for entries!

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

After the unprecedented year we have all experienced, it has never been more important to recognise the many ways professional therapists can make a real difference to others.

Last year we introduced the category, FHT Green Therapy Business of the Year, and we are excited to roll out that award for the second year running. We are also delighted to announce a brand new category for 2021, the FHT Inclusive Therapy Business of the Year award, for therapy businesses embracing diversity and inclusion, as part of our ongoing commitment to support inclusivity within the industry.

Our full range of awards categories are: • Complementary Therapist of the Year

• Sports Therapist of the Year • Beauty Therapist of the Year • Student of the Year • Tutor of the Year • Local Group Coordinator of the Year • Green Therapy Business of the Year • Inclusive Therapy Business of the Year Entering the FHT awards is free of charge and you can enter, or nominate someone else, for more than one category. The winner of each category will receive a certificate, trophy, logo for marketing materials and PR support to help spread the word in their local area, and nationally.

Finalists will be published on the FHT website in August and the winners announced the week commencing Monday 22 November. Entries close on Wednesday 30 June.

To enter, visit fht.org.uk/awards

Helping you to celebrate Aromatherapy Awareness Week this June Aromatherapy Awareness Week, which runs from 7 June, is a great opportunity to promote to potential clients and employers the many health and wellbeing benefits this complementary therapy has to offer. And as government restrictions start to ease across the four nations, hopefully this year, the majority of our aromatherapy members will be in a position to offer treatments during the week itself!

Look out for more information in May, when we’ll be providing you with ideas and a range of resources* to make the most of this event including: n A free promotional leaflet/poster, to print and distribute in your area. n A promotional image and cover/ banner image for use on your social media profiles.

n A template press release that you can send to your local press and radio station.

All of these resources, along with our other promotional downloads, will be made available in the Members' area at fht.org.uk/members-area.

And remember – if you hold an event to celebrate Aromatherapy Awareness Week, we'd love to know! Be sure to send us a couple of paragraphs about what you did, along with high-resolution pictures, so we can give you a mention in International Therapist and/or online.

Email Leanne at lsheill@fht.org.uk writing 'Aromatherapy Awareness Week' in the subject box. *You must be an FHT Member or Fellow and hold a level 3 qualification in aromatherapy to download the FHT’s Aromatherapy Awareness Week promotional posters, banners and other support material

Spring 2021

Support

FHT IN THE PRESS

FHT regularly contributes to a number of consumer and trade publications, 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

JAN/FEB/MAR 2021 ISSUE 37 £6.00

21

THINGS

TO DO

NOW

to ensure a brighter future

Using guest blogging to reach

NATURAL HEALTH

A NEW AUDIENCE

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

In each issue 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 January, February and March issues, we covered cedarwood, neroli and lime.

Rebu ild the business you want Turning new clients into regular clients

Dealing with emotional BLE TO ALL ACC ESSI release

BUSINESS

FHT

looks Therapist’s Leanne Sheill The Federation of Holistic to make your therapy practice at simple steps you can take more inclusive…

DEVELOP your healing intuition

T Psychedelics and HE death of George Floyd Matter the rise of the Black Lives of us to movement has led many

treatment.

the next CBD?

clients that you have considered such matters will help to increase their confidence in you as a

base…

S REALISTIC COMMITMENT

to share equality It’s not unusual for businesses for these goodand diversity policies, only to go by the wayside a intentioned documents of It’s often not through lack

few months later. policies were unrealistic caring but because the was a lack of structure in the first place or there

therapist.

REACH OUT People from diverse groups sometimes prefer to stay within their own communities because they

PLUS, the latest

research, mental health, vitamin C, recipes, social media audit, discovering obsidian, understanding anxiety in young people, and dealing with Candida, books and so much more… your progress.

IMAGERY

can relate to helps to Seeing images that you comfortable. When make you feel instantly your therapy choosing images to promote for photos with diverse practice, keep an eye out of free stock image models. There are a number promoting diversity (see websites that focus on and genderphotos. nappy.co, eyeforebony.com use images or vice.com). Alternatively, how a client might feel illustrations that reflect a picture of a calming after a therapy, such as scene or relaxing colours.

When contacting these another group of people. the benefits that your groups, look to focus on to them and make it therapy practice can bring information easy for them to share the

TAILOR YOUR PRODUCTS

LANGUAGE

go a long way to The language you use will of clients to use encouraging a diverse range will resonate your services. Not everyone so look with the same approach diverse at what language your surround groups of clients might the themselves with and take time to tailor the way you For communicate with them. example, technical jargon might be stressful for certain to clients or you might like basic sign some learning consider are hard of language for clients who hearing. n

readily feel more comfortable and if there are any groups accepted. Try researching help you reach out to or charities locally that could

Step back to maintain these commitments. at every aspect of your and take a critical look actions you can take to business, outline simple set regular dates to review make a difference and

CASE STUDY: CREATING A SUBSCRIPTION BOX

work well for different them that makes them you have, skin types? The more understanding see that you care the more your clients will effectiveness of their about them and the overall

of how these can impact have a good knowledge those affected. Where appropriate, communicating to your BAME

can take to consider what actions we encourage inclusivity promote anti-racism and Below are six small in our business practices. all make to offer a more changes that we could in turn will help to inclusive service, which attract a more diverse client

product that works well could introduce a new Make sure to do some for your BAME clients. too - what is it about research on these products

more widely.

work better on some Skincare products naturally Think about whether you skin types than others.

i

The FHT offers a range

of

membership benefits to the largest holistic therapists and runs Register for independently Accredited therapists. For complementary healthcare more information visit call 023 8062 4350.

www.fht.org.uk or

ADDITIONAL KNOWLEDGE

part of the BAME (Black, Sadly, people who form community can be Asian and Minority Ethnic) issues including sickle more prone to certain health and getting seriously cell disease, kidney failure It is important ill from viruses such as COVID-19. complications and to to be aware of these health

holistictherapistmagazine.com 28

HOLISTIC THERAPIST 2021

The UK’s top holistic wellness magazine

HOLISTIC THERAPIST MAGAZINE

FEB 2021

PLANT PROFILE:

NEROLI

The Federation of Holistic Therapists (fht.org.uk) explores the health benefits of neroli

THERAPIES | BEAUTY | WELLNESS | MEDITATION | ESCAPES

Revealed!

SEE PAGE 101

• Calming morning rituals • Try conscious creativity • Healing meditations

NATURAL notebook Naturopathy ABC FIX YOUR BROKEN HEART

INSTANT ENERGY BOOST

+ QIGONG MOVES TO TRY TONIGHT

10 little changes to do right now

BANISH YOUR LIFE’S CLUTTER Feel light, bright and totally free

NATURALHEALTHMAGAZINE.CO.UK

HOW WE BEAT ANXIETY

£4.99 FEB 21

NH columnists share their stories

THERAPY HANDBOOK

NEW REMEDIES This year’s hottest holistic trends

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 10 BEAUTY BLUNDERS AND THEIR NATURAL SAVIOURS

• THE JOY OF BUTI YOGA • GET EMOTIONAL AND STOP WRECKING YOUR HEALTH

Mani Norland, principal at The School of Health (schoolofhealth.com), says: R is for Relaxation One of the key principles of natural cure is relaxation, and this is something that even the most orthodox of medics would not disagree with. When the body and mind relax, tension is released from muscles, the body softens, blood pressure and other functions can return to normal. During deep relaxation, the channels of healing are opened.

PA G E-T

THE UK’S TOP HOLISTIC WELLNESS MAGAZINE

Feel calm, stress less, create joy

Neroli essential oil is derived from the flowers of the Seville orange tree, which were traditionally used in bridal wreaths, thanks to their delicate appearance and aroma. Even today, neroli remains a popular ingredient in eau de cologne, as well as other perfumes and skincare products. In the world of aromatherapy, neroli is perhaps best known for its relaxing and calming effects and is also said to be particularly beneficial for sensitive skin.

Safety note: never ingest plant essential oils or apply to the skin undiluted.

STAY YOUNG SECRETS

U

ER RN

HOT or NOT News, trends and tips from NH HQ

In Failosophy (£10, 4th Estate) Elizabeth Day brings together all the lessons she has learned, from conversations with the guests on her How to Fail podcast, to stories shared with her by readers and listeners (and from her own life), then she distils them into various principles of failure. Practical, reassuring and inspirational, these principles offer a guide through life’s rough patches.

From failed exams to romantic breakups; career setbacks to confidence crises; navigating anxiety to surviving loss, Failosophy celebrates the fact that failure connects us – it is what makes us human, after all.

ED’S PICK

HEATING UP ‘Ta-da’ list Instead of ending your day focused on the items you didn’t tick off on your to-do list, celebrate the things you achieved with a ‘ta-da’ list.

COOLING DOWN Perfect mani-pedi Swirly, gloopy nail-art is on the rise – a good excuse to make dodgy DIY manicures look (accidentally on purpose) deliberate – yes!

50%

of British women have taken up a new hobby since the pandemic began, with cooking, baking and gardening appearing at the top of the list.

Serenata Flowers

naturalhealthmagazine.co.uk

13

Holistic Therapist Magazine (HTM) is a quarterly trade magazine offering a balance of business and industry features, with a circulation figure of 15,000.

As part of the FHT’s ongoing commitment to support and encourage inclusivity across the industry, in the January issue of HTM, our Deputy Editor, Leanne Sheill, shared six simple steps to help readers create a more inclusive practice – from creating a realistic equality and diversity policy, to researching products and their suitability for different skin types and colours.

Doctor’s notes Dr Michael Dixon, GP and chair of the College of Medicine, talks frankly about those discouraging people from having the COVID-19 vaccine In this issue, I am going to be a bit controversial. I may even anger some you, but the issue concerned is too important to ignore.

Up and down the country, myself and colleagues are vaccinating patients as fast and furiously as we can so that we can begin to see an end to this terrible plague. What troubles me greatly is the misinformation about vaccines, which is leading many – particularly in the BAME communities – to refuse vaccination. The result is that those who need and would benefit from vaccination the most are becoming those most likely to refuse it.

Newspaper reports highlight this misinformation might be coming from particular sections of faith communities and last week there was mention that some of us involved in complementary medicine are also suggesting that our patients should not be vaccinated. No doubt most of this is mischievous misreporting but mud sticks.

For many years I have practiced integrated medicine or, as HRH The Prince of Wales calls it, 'The best of both worlds' – the best of Spring 2021

both conventional medicine and complementary therapy. It must never be 'either/or', on either side. Vaccination offers us a way out of this terrible pandemic and though of course every individual must make their own decision, it greatly worries me that some of our most vulnerable patients are being misinformed. Furthermore, they are likely to be ostracised even further in future, if any form vaccine passport is required.

'No man is an island', as John Stewart Mill tells us, and our actions as health professionals and whether our patients and clients take up vaccination has huge implications, not only for the individuals concerned, but for everyone.

I believe it is the duty of complementary therapists, every bit as much as it is of conventional clinicians, to encourage our patients to get vaccinated. Of course, as I say, everyone is free to make their own personal decision on this but influencing others not to have vaccination, especially if they are vulnerable, I feel verges on the criminal. This is a time to stand up, stand together and be counted, and put an end to this terrible scourge.

If your clients are worried about having a COVID-19 vaccine, please encourage them to look at reliable information on the NHS website (fht.org.uk/NHS-vaccination) or to speak to their GP or midwife.

International therapist 31

Health

Sun protection

As we approach the warmer months, we take a look at the important topic of sun protection.

C

ontact with skin is central to our work as therapists, putting us in a fantastic position to advise our clients on how to prevent sun damage. In this feature we set out to dispel some myths by taking a deeper look at the incredibly clever organ that protects our bodies.

Skin recap Melanocytes are cells found in the basal layer of skin, which produce melanin. The amount of melanin we have determines the pigment of our skin. Regardless of colour, all skin types generally have the same number of melanocytes — interestingly, however, melanocytes are typically larger in black skin than they are in white. The key determinant of skin tone is the amount of melanin that these cells produce; Asian people have, on average, twice as much melanin as white people, while African people have around three to six times more melanin (skincancer.net, accessed 2021).

Melanin protects our skin from the damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight.

UVA rays from the sun deplete the collagen in the skin, leading to wrinkles and skin discoloration, while UVB rays burn the skin which can cause cell deformities and the development of skin cancer (skincancer.org, 2019). Despite having higher levels of melanin, people from BAME backgrounds can still develop skin cancer as a result of sun exposure if not wearing the appropriate SPF protection.

Sun exposure isn’t the only cause of skin cancer; it can be hereditary or as a result of certain skin conditions. However, more than five cases of sunburn can double your risk of melanoma (skincancer.org, 2021), with Cancer Research UK stating that 86% of melanoma skin cancer cases are preventable (Cancer Research UK, accessed 2021).

The sun is often strong enough in the UK to cause damage even on a cloudy day, 32 International International therapist therapist

so experts advise applying sunscreen daily, no matter the weather (Cancer Research UK, 2021). The NHS recommend buying sunscreen with an SPF factor of 30 or higher and at least a four-star UVA protection rating (NHS, 2019). Dr Steven Wang from skincancer.org advises to consider the best ‘overall strategy’ to protect your skin. He said, ‘It’s important not to rely on sunscreens alone. No single method of sun defence can protect you perfectly.

Sunscreen is just one vital part of a strategy that should also include seeking shade and covering up with clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses' (skincancer.org, 2020).

Sunscreens As a product your clients need to wear daily, it is important that they find a sunscreen that is right for their skin and pairs with their wider values. There has been concern raised in the industry about potential hormone disruptors in sunscreens, these can be avoided by choosing mineral-based products which still provide good protection from the sun.

For clients looking for an organic mineralbased product, they might be interested in the Weleda Edelweiss sunscreen.

Dija Ayodele, founder of The Black Skin Directory, spoke to FHT about the ‘white ghostly cast’ left by mineral sunscreens, which she said is something that can be particularly undesirable for people with black skin and may even discourage them from using sun protection. She said, ‘Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as their active protective ingredients, which cause this white cast left on the skin. If someone with darker skin wants to use a mineral sunscreen, they often have to search hard to find a suitable product. Fortunately, brands are cottoning on to this and investing in more technology to improve the finish of their products so that they are more cosmetically elegant. One such brand to consider is Ultrasun with a wide array of

sunscreens to suit all skin tones.’

Advising clients By encouraging your clients to wear the correct sun protection all year round, you are looking out for their health and wellbeing, not just today but in the long-term too. It is key that the subject is approached sensitively as your client may not be aware of all the facts and sharing too much at once could overwhelm them. Keep in mind that they may have a history of skin cancer that you are not aware of, whether that be themselves, though this should come up in their consultation, or a close friend or relative. See our tips below...

Information to hand Due to COVID-19 it may not be sensible to keep leaflets in your clinic, but keeping a poster nearby may spark a conversation about skin protection when your clients visit. If you work on a mobile basis, another idea could be to include a link to one of our resources opposite on your website, social media or emails.

Approach the topic casually If your client hasn’t come to you specifically for skincare treatment or advice, you could mention that the weather is looking particularly sunny soon and that you’d recommend using a good SPF to protect from the sun.

Or drop in a ‘new fact’ you’ve learned, even when the weather isn’t quite so hot – who knew that wearing SPF all year round is important because sun damage can still occur on a cloudy day?

Be prepared If your client wants to know more, have a meaningful conversation with them about the subject and then signpost them to where they can find more information - we’ve listed some references in this feature that might be of use to you.

Spring Spring 2021

Health

SUN SAFETY RESOURCES A list of organisations providing more detailed information about skin protection.

Conclusion It is needless to stress the importance of protecting ourselves from sun damage, as therapists you know better than anyone that the skin needs to be cared for and considered at all times.

Charities Skcin and the British Association of Dermatologists both run sun safety awareness campaigns in May. Find out how you can get involved by visiting their websites listed in our resources section below and look out for more from the FHT. T

MYTH BUSTER n People with black skin can’t get skin cancer In a paper published in 2017, it was reported that African Americans were four times more likely to present with advanced stage IV melanoma and 1.5 times more likely to die from melanoma than Caucasians (Mahendraraj et al, 2017).

The Black Skin Directory – A website providing skincare advice and product suggestions for people with black skin. n blackskindirectory.com British Association of Dermatologists – A charity focused on the practice, teaching, training and research of dermatology, BAD run an annual Sun Awareness Week campaign in May. n bad.org.uk British Skin Foundation – A charity funding research into all types of skin diseases, including skin cancer. This website includes helpful information about how to spot signs of skin cancer. n knowyourskin.britishskinfoundation.co.uk Skin Cancer Foundation - A charity empowering people to take a proactive approach to daily sun protection and the early detection and treatment of skin cancer. n skincancer.org Skcin - A charity with a mission to prevent skin cancer through education. Skcin promotes the Melanoma and Skin Cancer awareness month each May. n skcin.org Melanoma UK - A charity with a vision to increase the UK's awareness of melanoma, and its prevention through advocacy, education, and research. n melanoma.org.uk

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

n Only sun exposure causes skin cancer Skin cancer can run in the family or be as a result of certain skin conditions. n You only risk sun exposure on hot days Damage from UVA and UVB rays is still possible on an overcast day in the UK. n Skin cancer only affects older people Skin cancer, like any form of cancer, can affect people at any age. Cancer Research UK found that most sun damage occurs by the time we are 18 years old, so it is important to prioritise skin protection from a young age (Cancer Research UK, accessed 2021).

Spring 2021

International therapist 33

Book Excerpt

The

mountains of life and business In this short excerpt from a new book, Beauty and the Best, Maria Mason, FHT Vice President provides an insight into team management at her award-winning salon, Beauty Time.

I

think it's important to always aim to be someone your team can look up to; never ask anything of them that you are not willing to do yourself, invest in them and show them their worth. It goes without saying that sometimes you will employ people who are not a natural fit in your team and business, and these are the difficult times that require you to be brave. Respect that the team members who give their all to you, deserve to work in a healthy and productive environment.

I've been fortunate to have had longevity with many of my team and, on average, many have worked for me for over 15 years. I have always supported and encouraged my therapists to enter awards, with many having gone on to win national awards. Entering awards as an individual isn’t for everyone, but those who stand centre stage in your business understand that without the support of the team and reputation of the salon, winning is not possible, as each supports the other.

You invest a lot of time, love and energy into your team and you will be there with them on the most precious days of their lives. Wedding days, baby days and sometimes sad days... they become like family to you and often, just as important as your own close family. One of the hardest lessons by far is when the time comes for them to move on and to wish them luck, as they begin the next chapter in their own life. Then it’s time to look back and be thankful for the days, 34 International therapist

years and times they gave to you and your business.

Finding the right people for the right job is key. The customer journey, expectation and excitement comes from the first mention of your business, whether it is by word of mouth, recommendation, search engines or social media. That first phone call, that first opening of the door to your salon, is vital to the lasting impression you leave in the mind and experience of your clients. I am proud that our reception team have always provided an outstanding service.

You learn a lot about yourself managing a team. When we have had team members who aren't suitable or who we have had to let go due to salon standards not being met, you realise the importance of your own mental health. Trying to be kind with dignity and not becoming defensive are hard lessons to learn but you begin to realise that some will treat their role in your business as just a job, while for others it is definitely a career.

You have to stay focused and see what is right for your business. If your clients have been visiting your salon for many years, it is the standard and professionalism that keeps them coming back. Always seek to find and invest in people with your own vision. For the right people, the rewards and job satisfaction are clear to see – if you have the right person in the right role, paired with a great business, it will result in years of wonderful employment and personal growth for both. T

BEAUTY AND THE BEST This recently published book features stories by 22 inspiring beauty therapists. They each share their highs, lows and wisdom to help others achieve success in the beauty industry. Co-edited by Susan Routledge and Andrew Priestley, Beauty and the Best is available from amazon.com (RRP: £12.99).

Spring 2021

ONLINE COURSE FOR THERAPISTS

NOT mirror neurons!

EXPLORE THE SCIENCE OF HOW & WHY WE FEEL WHAT OUR CLIENTS FEEL

NOT about being nice!

SOMATIC EMPATHY EXPLAINED

emotional contagion? projective identification? somatic counter-transfer? interpersonal physiology?

ABSOLUTE AROMAS

Experts in Aromatherapy Since 1994 Absolute Aromas offer an unparalleled range of over 140 essential oils and a wide selection of carrier oils and base products for the discerning therapist. Our Organic range is 100% organic and certified by the Soil Association.

Tel: +44(0)1420540400

www.absolute-aromas.com

Email: sales@absolute-aromas.com

Discover the social neuroscience of an ancient intelligence we share with other species.

Learn how somatic empathy works so that you can safely help your clients without fear of 'taking on' or 'picking up' harmful states.

With biologist, bodyworker & author, Dr Cindy Engel | £149

www.cindyengel.com

We are the first NHS trust-approved training school offering peer reviewed accredited training and unique supervised practice placements, within Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust.

We provide a wide range of professional and interest courses from professional qualifications in Aromatherapy, Massage, Reflexology, Emmett Practitioner and Daoyin Tao, to introductory and specialised CPD including Certificate in Cancer and Palliative Care, HDFT Certificate in Complementary Therapies, Pain Management, Advanced Pathology and Recognising Red Flags.

Attention Therapists - Looking for an award winning vegan skincare range to use in your treatments?

At Bespoke Aroma SPA we like to do things a little differently.

With one to one advice and support, free on-line training and no high initial order value,

We can also deliver bespoke training packages within your organisation.

For our full range of courses, dates and prices please get in touch: email hdft.Natural.Healthschool@nhs.net or call 01423 557316 www.nhsnaturalhealthschool.co.uk

why not refresh and restock with us?

For an informal chat, advice or further information on our trade price list, email

joevans@bespokearoma.co.uk

Spring 2021

Natural Health School QPV.indd 1

International therapist 35

08/01/2020 12:02

Local Groups

Local groups COVID-19 has meant that sadly, FHT local groups (LGs) have been unable to meet face-to-face since March. In this issue of International Therapist, we are bringing a special focus to the innovative ways LGs have come together, bringing a much-needed sense of community and togetherness.

Self-care Indian Head massage at Waterlooville We asked our FHT Local Group Coordinators, ‘What’s the first thing you’ll do as a group when you are able to meet in person again and restrictions allow?’

Miranda Whelton, Colchester Coordinator, said, ‘Celebrate!’

We had a very successful virtual meeting with Mary Atkinson, FFHT, on how to conduct an Indian Head Massage on yourself, writes Waterlooville Coordinator, Hazel Tudor. Not only did Mary guide us through how to conduct the massage, but she also taught us about the history of the treatment. Mary shared an incredible story of when she experienced the treatment in India, it all sounded very different to the treatment room settings that

we are used to!

It was so enjoyable, seeing 32 smiling faces on the screen. We all benefitted from giving ourselves a massage and waved goodbye at the end with ruffled hair and feelings of relaxation. It made me realise how important our local group meetings are and how much we have missed meeting up with each other. In the meantime, we are looking forward to being able to do more Zoom meetings and learning virtually.

Healthy Steps at North Birmingham We were pleased to welcome Janet Capstick and Jackie Buller from the FHT accredited Healthy Steps programme, writes North Birmingham Coordinator, Alison Clamp. Janet and Jackie explained that through the programme, they work to facilitate group sessions to people who are classed as medically vulnerable. Most of their work is carried out in care homes, supporting people living with medical conditions such as lymphoedema, Parkinson’s, chronic pain, dementia and cancer. They demonstrated the therapeutic movements that form the sessions, which was very interesting to see.

Janet and Jackie explained that through their programme they have seen positive outcomes for people living with a variety of conditions, but especially lymphoedema.

They also said how much fun everyone had 36 International therapist

during the class and that participants of all abilities were able to see a big improvement in their movement.

We were a group of 10 and it was so lovely to see other therapists while learning something new. We have all discovered a new therapy which could be offered to vulnerable clients who may not be able to receive hands-on treatments.

Laura Woolridge, Stourbridge and Dudley Coordinator, said, ‘Celebrate, and just have a social catch up - maybe arrange a meal to meet up!'

Alison Brown, Worthing Coordinator, said, ‘Hug each person as they come through the door!’

Hazel Tudor, Waterloovile Coordinator, said, ‘A welcome back free social evening with homemade cakes and a huge hug to everyone who comes through the door.’

Annie Barret, Bath Coordinator, said, ‘A shared reiki session, hopefully at a retreat day!’

Louise Black, York Coordinator, said, ‘Take some home baking to the first meeting to celebrate!’

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.

Find your nearest local group at fht.org.uk/local-groups

Spring 2021

Profile

The final link...

Farrah Idris, MFHT, gives an insight into being a link worker during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Y

ou could say my career has taken a cyclical route, rather than a defined trajectory. I have been a frontline worker in various statutory and voluntary settings for more than 20 years. During that time, I witnessed how health and social inequalities can contribute significantly to a lack of choices, poor health and low confidence. In my role as an independent domestic violence advocate (IDVA), I was already incorporating wellbeing into client support plans but wanted to gently introduce the aspects of self-care through a holistic lens. This combination of practical advice and wellbeing strategies had a noticeable effect on my clients – with many going on to take positive strides in their lives.

Seeing my clients’ health improve and confidence grow helped to deepen my appreciation for complementary therapies.

I decided to retrain as a complementary therapist and support people with lifelimiting conditions, so began working in oncology wards and later started working in palliative care at St Joseph’s Hospice, Hackney.

I read an article about GPs referring patients to link workers to engage with them on a deeper level and to offer appropriate non-medical resolutions - also known as social prescribing. It was an ‘a-ha’ moment for me as for many years I had felt that complementary therapists (and key workers) were doing this without it being formally recognised. This collaborative and innovative approach excited me and last year I left my clinical role to start as a link worker attached to four GP practices.

Supporting patients The patients I work with on a day-to-day basis can vary greatly in their health and social needs. There are, however, reoccurring themes of mental health, obesity, cancer, substance misuse, social isolation and food poverty.

Once a referral has been received, the patient completes a PAM (Patient Activation Spring 2021

Farrah Idris in her role as a link worker before the pandemic Measure) to formally document the assessment. My engagement with them can be between one to three sessions, depending on their priorities and how soon the issue can be resolved. The number of times a patient is re-referred to the service is not limited, and they can self-refer at any time.

If the nature of the patient’s issue is social and requires practical advice, I refer them to specialist organisations such as the Citizens Advice Bureau or local foodbank. I also refer patients affected by health issues that can be supported through complementary therapies or wellbeing practices. Over the past year I have forwarded patients onto practitioners in yoga, Pilates, mindfulness, reiki and breathwork, as well as acupuncturists, osteopaths and clinical hypnotherapists - just to name a few!

I have been remote working since the start of the pandemic, so all interactions with patients are carried out over the phone, via video communication, or by email.

These changes have provided some clear pros and cons. On the one hand they have enabled me to support the most vulnerable

of patients, and at the same time it is a shame not to be able to pass patients on to hands-on therapies.

Rewarding work I have seen changes in so many patients, from how they regard themselves to their approach to health and using wellbeing practices to support their choices. It may be an 80-year-old who has done yoga for the first time, or an 18-year-old who uses aromatherapy to ease anxiety. In both cases it is a first for them, but certainly not the last.

Being a link worker and complementary therapist enables me to have meaningful conversations with patients and empower them to make positive self-led choices.

Feeling fulfilled in my work is important to me and my current role certainly achieves that for me. T Farrah Idris is a complementary therapist and tutor who is currently a link worker in Tower Hamlets, London. She specialises in hypnotherapy and supports patients in oncology and palliative care wards.

International therapist 37

Skincare

Products from the heart

Lucy Stevens, MFHT, shares the highs and lows of her journey in launching her own range of skincare, Orchard View naturals.

T

he story of my skincare line began in 2009 after I qualified in aromatherapy and introduced bespoke essential oil blends into my therapy treatments.

I soon found that my clients loved the natural aromas and importantly, began to notice benefits to their skin.

I started creating skincare products on a shoestring, using some of the income from my therapy work. At the time, I had little knowledge of product formulation, cosmetic legislation, or where to start when it came to creating a brand. I might never have chosen to go down this path if I had known what I was about to take on back then, but sometimes the best things in life start by taking a leap of faith.

My vision was to create a skincare and wellbeing brand with essential oils at the heart. I’d always taken a cruelty-free, plantbased, ethical approach in my therapy

38 International therapist

work and it was important to me that those values extended into the products too.

I started by diving into research, seeking clinical evidence to back up my choices of the best botanicals for different skin types and conditions – I had also earmarked essential oils that I’d seen successes with in my therapy sessions. From there, I began testing ingredients and comparing differences in quality from one supplier to the next.

As well as carefully choosing essential oils for their therapeutic effects and exquisite aromas, I needed emollients to soften and soothe the skin, without leaving a greasy residue. I opted for polyunsaturated base oils, which leave behind a matte finish. It can be hard to convey to consumers that not all oils are greasy, so I tend to use blogs and newsletters to get this message across.

Essential oils can get bad press if they

are not used wisely, but there is plenty of evidence to show their skincare benefits.

There is an alchemical process that happens when essential oils are blended, they need time to mature before the true result becomes clear. Some formulas seem to work almost instantly, while others take months or even years before ingredients sit comfortably together.

There’s nothing more exquisite than sitting amongst molecules of rose, frankincense, bergamot and lavender as they sing and dance around a room. This is the part of my skincare business that I love the most – being hands-on with the oils, getting to know their personalities and matching them to a desired outcome.

Design Once I was happy with my formulas, the next step was designing the look of the product. I have always I enjoyed working Spring 2021

Skincare

with words and imagery this brought another creative element to my work. I took the time to research the psychology of colour and thought carefully about the messages I wanted to get across in my branding.

I threw around lots of ideas for a brand name — it’s surprisingly hard to come up with something original! I considered what would reflect the brand heritage, which led me to choosing Orchard View, my first home in Somerset, where my skincare journey first started. It seemed there was a kind of ‘golden glow’ attached to it.

When considering packaging for my products, I decided to use recyclable glass bottles with a deep purple colour and to leave them unboxed. The tint of the bottle helps to protect the contents from light degradation and reflects the gender neutrality of the products.

Leaving the products unboxed avoids any unnecessary waste and ties in with my overall sustainable approach my publicity leaflets, wrapping and postal bags/boxes are all made from recyclable materials.

I created a logo using basic software, before designing and printing my own labels. It was a challenge to fit all of the information required on the labels along with the branding. Ingredients are legally required to be listed in descending order of quantity, using International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients terms, along with potential allergens, the name and address of the person responsible for creating the products, shelf life, quantity, batch number and usage directions.

cosmetic scientist for my cosmetic safety assessments. The route to compliance can be long with bumps in the road, especially if you’re feeling your way as I was. It’s vital to be compliant, out of respect for the safety of your customers, to avoid falling foul of the law and for your own peace of mind. Trading Standards can inspect at any time and you want to be ready when they do. I’ve had a site visit, been selected at random to send a product for testing and had to provide proof of the percentage of natural and organic ingredients plus the cruelty-free and vegan status of one of my body oils.

I remember my first challenge test... I awaited the outcome with bated breath.

To my relief, everything performed exceptionally well, apart from a soap containing dried rose petals, which contaminated the product. Needless to say, I immediately adjusted the recipe to exclude the petals!

Other legal aspects include registration of products with the authorities on a central database, compilation of a product information file with records of recipes, ingredients, suppliers, labelling, good manufacturing practice, any claims made and sources to prove them, material safety data sheets (SDS) and more. I’ve learnt that having suppliers who are willing and able to provide SDS are worth their weight in gold.

Each time a batch is made, records need to be kept for traceability of ingredients and to evidence the protocols in place. The amount of behind-thescenes work can sometimes seem overwhelming. I’d describe the creation

process of the products, for me, as a labour of love.

Product launch Once the formulation, design, assessments and registration had been completed, I approached the daunting step of launching onto the marketplace.

I had no advertising budget and no contacts in high places, so started by spreading the word the best way I knew how – sending out press releases, posting on social media and making contacts with potential stockists.

I knew customer service would be important to my brand and the overall consumer journey. I wanted to show my appreciation to customers so included personal touches like hand-written notes or a complimentary sample with their order, along with quality content in free newsletters and on my blog.

It’s heart-warming that some of my very first customers are still with me today.

I think that’s because my approach to business is about creating and nurturing relationships - once people try the products and get to know me, they’re invested. It’s no coincidence that my therapy clients also buy my skincare

Compliance When creating and marketing cosmetics, language is vitally important too. The Advertising Standards Authority write, 'If you are making a claim which goes beyond a simple cosmetic effect for the product, you should hold robust evidence to support it' (ASA, 2014).

Claims to heal eczema or acne, for example, are unacceptable. Terms like relaxing, soothing or nourishing are fine to use.

To ensure my products would be legally compliant, I attended some cosmetic legislation courses, met with Trading Standards, approached my local authority regarding challenge testing and found a Spring 2021

International therapist 39



Skincare

products, or that I have independent stockists with similar ethics, some of who are therapists. These people understand the brand and its ethos, they know that everything I do is from the heart.

My products have been featured in several magazines, newspapers and online. Being featured as an ‘editor’s favourite’ in a Beauty Bible book and having my products chosen as gifts for customers at the Scarlet & Bedruthan spa hotels in Cornwall are two of my highlights.

Today Much has changed over a decade. I decided to discontinue my original line which included cleansers and body lotions, as I couldn’t afford to keep producing such a wide range. Instead, I stayed true to my roots and focused on my specialism of face and body oils.

Today I am proud of my small, honed range with ingredients informed by many years of experience, research and study.

When I first started, natural wellness brands were few and far between, but we all know that they have now become 40 International therapist

very much mainstream. This is fantastic for the consumer, but it makes it hard for small businesses to stand out from the crowd. The oversaturated marketplace in combination with everchanging social media algorithms, makes it increasingly more difficult to reach consumers.

Algorithms are set to give businesses low visibility unless you have a budget to advertise, which for me has meant that where my posts used to reach hundreds of people, I’m now lucky if they reach 20.

The pandemic has inevitably affected the therapy side of the business and has had an impact on product sales.

It’s brought it home how closely my skincare business is linked with my therapy practice; I've never seen them as separate entities, the two are intrinsically linked. I’ve kept the online shop open and redesigned the website, despite sales being unpredictable over the past year.

There have been positives though, people are more aware of where they’re spending money and are showing a renewed interest in supporting local businesses, I’ve also noticed that more people are buying products as gifts.

Brexit has also brought challenges.

Previously, cosmetic products were registered on a European database but now everything must be re-registered on the new UK Submit Cosmetic Products Notification Portal. Because of the costs and administration involved in complying with new export legislation, I’ve sadly had to cease sales to the EU and Northern Ireland, where I had a stockist and a small number of loyal customers.

Time will tell how COVID-19 and Brexit will affect the global botanicals market, although supply shortages and price increases are likely. What the future holds I haven’t yet worked out. For now, I’ll be sitting tight, continuing to produce products with current stock and closely watching for any developments. It’s 15 years since I began working as a therapist and 12 since the first Orchard View naturals skincare products were launched, which feels like an achievement and a milestone.

My advice to anyone thinking of getting into the business of making skincare would be to do something active, whether it’s enrolling on a course, trying a recipe or sketching out a business plan.

Your destination may be exactly as you imagined, or it may be something else entirely - think of it as an adventure. T

Lucy Stevens, MFHT, is an aromatherapist based near Langport, Somerset. She provides natural, holistic facial treatments and launched her own skincare line, Orchard View naturals, in 2009. ovnaturals.co.uk

Spring 2021

Profile

Pushing back Parkinson’s

John Molyneux, 2020 FHT Sports Therapist of the Year, talks about his recent quest to support clients with Parkinson’s disease

V

isiting the area where I grew up, I’ve just walked into a pub to meet some old friends I haven’t seen for a while. I recognise that one of them has Parkinson’s disease (PD). I can tell from his gait, his posture and the fixed stare on his face. But when talking with him, he has no idea: he hasn’t been diagnosed. What do I do? I can’t say to him, 'By the way, I think you may have Parkinson’s'.

I asked his closest friend to nudge him to go to the doctor, which he did, and eventually my old mate was diagnosed with PD. I then made it my mission to study PD, because I wanted to help him and be at his side during his journey.

Through another client called Barry who has PD, I came across a book called Goodbye Parkinson’s, Hello Life! It’s a fascinating read and shows how to use music, movement and rhythm to reduce PD symptoms, which the author refers to as the Gyro-Kinetic Method. Barry’s wife, Sherrill, was constantly researching new Spring 2021

ways to help with his PD diagnosis and this particular method seemed to help reduce the tremors. This led to more research and then Sherrill came across PD Warrior, a revolutionary exercise programme designed by Australian neuro-physiotherapists to help slow the progression of PD symptoms. When PD Warrior training became available in London, Barry and Sherrill very kindly sponsored me to take the course.

The course was in two parts: 15 hours of remote learning and then a seven hour practical assessment at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in Queen Square. I am not a natural academic so certainly found this a challenge. The course, Neuroplasticity in Parkinson’s, covered such a wealth of information. Let’s just say that by the end, after reading all the science and theory of PD, alongside papers by brilliant scientists (world leaders in their field), my brain hurt! However, I passed the course and went to work at applying my new knowledge and skills.

PD Warrior has been a game changer. I have been using it for 18 months now and Barry, who is 75-years-old, has remained stable with no deterioration. My mate from the pub has also improved in all areas and is better now than he was pre-diagnosis.

I train both men via Zoom every week for 20–30 minutes, Monday to Friday. I have added other techniques and exercises

based on their individual needs, and the combined results of doing these daily, highintensity exercises have been amazing. I always do a review at the end of the month and ask for a list of day-to-day things they are struggling with, to work on in the following month — this might be taking a bath or pulling in a chair at the dining room table. Regardless of the task, by the end of the month we have beaten it and moved on.

We have a system now, where they lie on a heated mat for 10 minutes after exercising.

The mat really helps deal with the muscle stiffness associated with PD that I can’t treat in person due to being in lockdown. There is no way I could have found the time in my schedule to treat my PD clients daily before lockdown. I will definitely be including online sessions in my repertoire when the world is open again and we can go back to treating clients in their homes. T

John Molynuex, MFHT, 2020 FHT Sports Therapist of the Year, is the founder of MolyFit (molyfit.co.uk) and specialises in supporting clients over the age of 65. He is the author of two books aimed at keeping older people active, A Better You in Later Life and An Even Better You in Later Life.

International therapist 41

Self-help

Myofascial release at home

Amanda Oswald, FHT member and accredited course provider, shares her secrets on how to work fascia into your self-care routine...

M

yofascial release is a therapy that is focused on releasing restrictions and trigger points that have formed in fascia and contribute to chronic pain conditions. Most people think of it as hands-on therapy, but the beauty of myofascial release is that you can do this for yourself through stretches or exercises using simple tools such as balls.

In its natural state fascia is a complex, three-dimensional web of free moving structural tissue that constantly shapes and reshapes itself in response to our movements and the demands we make on it. When healthy, fascia moves fluidly and seamlessly to distribute tension and maintain balance in the body.

However, fascia can suffer accident or injury or be damaged in some other way, for example, by surgery. When this happens, the fascial web can snag and lose its ability to move freely. This 42 International therapist

causes fascial restrictions and trigger points to form, and it is these that can lead to chronic pain. Other major causes of fascial restrictions are the overuse and underuse of our bodies associated with modern lifestyles, psychological stress and trauma.

Self-help myofascial release is an effective way of helping yourself out of chronic pain as it progressively allows your body to release and rebalance. We call it the ‘slow fix’ because it takes time for your body to undo itself. Working regularly with your fascia can bring long-term benefits of improved balance and posture, as well as decreasing pain and movement restrictions.

General principles Heat before you treat When your body is cold, fascia is tighter and harder to treat. Like putty, it becomes softer and more pliable as it warms up. You can warm your body through exercise or through damp heat, such as taking a shower.

Little and often is best If you try to do too much too soon this can lead to irritation and more pain in the short term. Limit your sessions to 20-30 minutes a day and work on different areas using a range of exercises to help release restrictions.

Stay within your comfort zone The rule of ‘no pain, no gain’ doesn’t apply when working with fascia. If working on an area causes intense pain, your fascia will tighten to protect itself as opposed to releasing and letting go. Use a scale of 0 to 10, where 0 is no pain and 10 is excruciating, and keep your pain levels at an acceptable maximum of 7.

Maintain the pressure Fascia is a slow releasing tissue and responds best to sustained pressure, so staying in a single stretch or on a tender point for longer allows time for the fascia to start to let go. Compared with muscle exercises, you don’t need Spring 2021

Self-help Visit paincareclinic.co.uk for more about our self-help myofascial exercises, products and training.

Throat stretch Cross your hands on your chest just under your collarbones. Gently pull your hands down, keeping your jaw relaxed. Tip your head back until you feel a stretch in your throat. Turn your head to the side to feel a stretch into the side of your neck and ear.

Neck stretch Seated or standing, let your head drop forwards. Allow the weight of your head to create a stretch which you may progressively feel in the top of your head and down your neck and back. To deepen the stretch, place your hands on top of your head without pulling your head forwards.

Ball on side of neck Lie on your side and place the ball so that it fits comfortably on your neck just below your ear. Be careful not to place it too far forwards as this will feel uncomfortable and may restrict your breathing.

to repeat each stretch or exercise more than once in a session.

Pay attention to your body Fascial restrictions and trigger points create referred pain patterns that can spread through lines of tension in your body. As you work to release these, you will often feel pain in other places. This is generally a good indication of where you should work next.

Ball exercises You can use inflatable myofascial balls, trigger point balls or other balls.

However, we generally don’t recommend anything harder than a tennis ball as this can be painful and cause your fascia to tense up. Wherever you are, lie or lean against the ball for 90 to 120 seconds, allowing time for the fascia to release.

You don’t need to roll around, just use static pressure. Sometimes you may feel a slight intensifying of sensations before they start to reduce. Don’t worry if you don’t feel any changes at first – if Spring 2021

Ball on armpit Lie on your side with your lower arm above your head and a pillow under your head for comfort. Feel along the side of your armpit with your other hand to locate the outer edge of the shoulder blade.

Place the ball anywhere here.

you have been in one place for at least two minutes then the fascia will have started to release, but sometimes it takes a few repeats before you start to notice a difference.

Stretches Unlike muscle stretches which last for 20 to 30 seconds, a fascial stretch needs to last anything from 90 seconds to five minutes for maximum benefit. We recommend you start by holding each stretch for 90 to 120 seconds. Go into each stretch progressively, and when you feel a sense of resistance, wait until this loosens before you deepen the Keen to learn more? Amanda will be giving a seminar on myofascial release at this year’s FHT Virtual Congress – for more information, see pages 21-23

stretch further. As fascia releases, so do the tissues contained within it, this means you are stretching your muscles and nerves at the same time.

If any of these exercises make your symptoms worse, common sense says stop! T

Amanda 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 further training in fascial techniques in the USA, UK and Europe.

Besides her clinic work, Amanda teaches Practical Myofascial Release to therapists and promotes self-care myofascial release techniques for all. paincareclinic.co.uk

International therapist 43

Business

44 International therapist

Spring 2021

Business

Lessons of a

lifetime

A series of stories and learnings from our FHT Virtual Congress speakers about the year that has shaped us all.

DR ESE STACEY Consultant in sport and exercise medicine, writes...

I am a consultant at a clinic in Brighton and London where I mainly treat patients with chronic musculoskeletal disorders such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue.

When the pandemic hit, I went from holding three face-to-face consultations a week to none. Luckily, the overall response has been positive and my patients seem to appreciate remote consultations. With any chronic illness it can be difficult to navigate public transport and the travel time involved can often leave patients feeling fatigued, so my patients have been particularly grateful for virtual consultations.

Virtual consultations will never replace face-to-face completely because physical examinations are sometimes necessary. Being in the same space allows me to quickly become attuned to a patient’s wellbeing — it’s difficult to explain how or why this is but I believe that it is something that happens subconsciously.* When first holding remote consultations, I found that this instant intuition was lacking, however, I have since learnt that it comes back when I listen and watch more carefully. If

Spring 2021

I treat the consultation as a merely mechanical set of questions and answers, an adequate connection is not made and the consultation does not progress as well.

In my face-to-face clinics, I would routinely examine patients before giving advice. Examination via remote consultation is tricky, while you may be able to instruct a patient to perform a set of movements, a hands-on feel is necessary to understand the full nature of the movement. For example, patients with chronic inflammation have stiff soft tissues, which is very apparent to the touch — I would also use ultrasound to assess soft tissue joints and look for signs of inflammation (this isn't currently an option). When the hands-on part is missing, it does makes it much more difficult to perform a physical assessment.

Since the pandemic, I’ve seen fewer patients but spent more time ‘connecting’ with the ones I have seen — this has been invaluable and something that will be central to what I take forward from this past year. *Editor’s note: If you also experience this, you may be interested to read Cindy Engel’s article on somatic empathy – see page 57 for more information.

ALISON BAILEY Complementary therapy coordinator at Weston HospiceCare, writes...

I work within a multidisciplinary team to provide support for people living with a life-limiting illness, and their families.

The complementary therapy service supports those staying at the hospice, as well as day patients who attend for wellbeing activities. We also provide a community service for those who are too unwell to visit.

When the first lockdown was announced, we provided relaxation sessions on Zoom but found people reluctant to join in. The nature of Zoom was quite alien to us all, but we soon adapted to a new way of thinking. The biggest lesson the pandemic has taught me is how to be flexible and adapt to change quickly to respond to individual needs.

I think most people will agree that nothing can replace hands-on therapies, however, I do believe there is a window for continuing to offer support virtually.

For those clients who have fears about leaving their home, the virtual sessions have really helped. Most people say they feel anxious before a Zoom session but that the relaxation techniques they practice with us help them to have a better night’s sleep and feel less anxious.

Below is some feedback from a client who accessed our virtual wellbeing service during the pandemic...

'The wellbeing centre has been the most helpful experience during my cancer journey. I attended a Zoom session where I was able to speak openly, hear others experiences and share helpful tips. They have also provided other ways to cope that were beneficial to me at home such as visualisation, breathing techniques and meditation.

Finally, it was so good to be able to socialise and laugh despite everything.

I have only been out for medical appointments so to be able to access support from the wellbeing team has meant a lot to me during this difficult time.'

International therapist 45

Business

PETER MACKERETH AND ANN CARTER Educational advisors and lecturers at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester, write...

Shortly after the pandemic began, like many retired nurses and healthcare professionals, I (Peter) received an email asking if I would like to temporarily return to practice. I wanted to help so filled out the relevant forms and was soon contacted to return as a bank nurse helping with COVID-19 screening. Wearing PPE and abiding by social distancing was necessary but challenging when you are so used to using therapeutic touch. As a clinical hypnotherapist, trained in relaxation, I did have a few opportunities to share techniques with anxious patients as they arrived for medical procedures. I worked from April to November at The Christie, supporting patients and reconnecting with colleagues I had worked with for the last 20 years.

In January 2021 I was asked to join a vaccination centre as a nurse. I finish each shift feeling honored to be contributing to the vaccine rollout — by being part of the effort, it feels like you are contributing to the positive movement forward out of these difficult times. I have met many older people and those shielding who have had little or no contact with family and friends, normal life and all its joys and challenges has been put on hold. So, I think for many people their vaccination appointment can be an exciting day out – not only to receive the vaccine but to be once more in the world, albeit briefly. For those who are nervous of injections I again have had the opportunity to use, share and teach relaxation skills to ease needle anxiety.

Ann Carter and I have also been training therapists and health care

46 International therapist

professionals in providing therapeutic interventions virtually. Our students have been completing reflective tasks, which allows us to live vicariously through them, giving us a window into their practice at this time and sharing with us the difference it has made. In offering this training, Ann and I have rapidly upskilled ourselves in developing, delivering and evaluating Zoom courses for therapists on creative imagery and progressive muscle relaxation.

We have also taken up requests for numerous articles and online conferences over the last year, one of which will be our talk on ‘Microbes and Massage’ for the FHT’s Virtual Congress on the 13 –14 June. Despite the pandemic we have both been busier than ever, we are so looking forward to the easing of the lockdown and a coffee and cake in a café in Didsbury!

For us, one of our most important learnings has been to keep an eye on the latest from professional bodies such as the FHT. We will not go back to what we did before in the same way, for example, virtual communications are going to be with us for the foreseeable future.

Patients, clients and therapists will be cautious about contact with strangers, and we will all be thinking about our close contact with vulnerable people and ways of staying safe. Very importantly, the world has been woken up to the importance of handwashing, something health professionals and therapists have been championing way before COVID-19.

CLAIRE RIDDELL Sports massage therapist and FHT accredited course provider, writes...

I am sports therapist based in Nottingham where I run my own clinic, called Pressure Point. I also deliver a variety of VTCT qualifications. In the first few months of 2020, I found myself busier than ever and couldn’t have envisaged the changes and adaptability needed for the rest of the year.

I find it hard to relax sometimes, so to see my diary empty during lockdown was upsetting, but after my fifth 1,000-piece jigsaw I found that I had gradually managed to adapt to a slower pace of life!

I discovered that the situation I found myself in wasn’t all bad, it granted me more time to spend on different areas of my business — from my website, to accreditations, courses, workbooks and videos. Like a lot of people, it has made me re-evaluate the way I work and I have since started to pencil in admin days to ensure I continue focusing on these areas of my business.

Since I trained over 20 years ago, I haven’t gone this long without physically supporting a client. I felt like I was going to my first day at school when we could open again in July 2020, I was very nervous and even wondered if I would remember how to massage! Seeing clients again was like catching up with old friends, I realised I need my clients as much as they need me.

Here are just a few of the lessons I have learned as a result of the pandemic... n Make time for yourself regularly, the most effective way to do this is to block it out in your diary. n Seeing six clients in one day is enough, consider the strain on your own body. n Keep learning - the more you know, the more you realise you don’t know. n The theory part of courses can easily be carried out online, something I probably wouldn’t have considered before the pandemic. n Update your social media regularly, not to promote yourself but to let clients know you are still there if they need you.

Spring 2021

Business

Keen to learn more? All of the contributors to this article will be giving a seminar at our FHT Virtual Congress – for more information, see pages 21-23.

GWYN FEATONBY 2018 FHT Tutor of the Year and complementary therapy lead at the NHS Natural Health School writes...

I work in the Sir Robert Ogden Macmillan Centre Complementary Therapy Service, at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (HDFT NHS Trust), where we predominantly provide therapies to support patients undergoing anti-cancer treatments. The past year has provided challenges for us, as I’m sure it has most complementary therapists!

As you can imagine, the group of patients we support are particularly vulnerable to infection and the decision to stop any non-essential contact was the best way to reduce risk for them.

Unfortunately, those patients who were not on active cancer treatment also had to stop coming in for their complementary therapies (CTs) because the cancer unit needed to become what was termed a 'clean unit' or one with minimal traffic, the objective being that the less people our patients (and staff) encountered, the better protection we could offer patients visiting for essential care.

This had a massive impact on both the patients and the staff. Patients are used to having CTs to support symptom management and having this withdrawn was difficult for them. Stress levels were elevated due to fear around the virus, but also because some treatments and investigations were stopped due to the associated risks during the pandemic.

Patients were being managed by staff wearing full PPE, physical contact was 'essential only' (no friendly contact gestures) and they could no longer bring a support friend to appointments — these were all contributing factors for increased stress during what was already an anxious time.

It was frustrating not being able to support our patients in the way we knew best. We were redeployed into other roles as staffing levels were impacted due to

Spring 2021

either sickness or self-isolation. As time went on however, it became clear that these changes may become the norm for the foreseeable future and that more action was needed to ensure we were able to deliver a service.

At the school, we quickly adapted to using social media platforms to offer distance learning which involved reformatting the training to provide clarity.

We were able to keep learners motivated by demonstrating practical skills virtually and when we did manage a practical exam in November, we were delighted to see that all the students graduated with merits and distinctions.

Re-establishing the patient services took a lot more ingenuity. Using data from our services, we were able to identify therapies that could be delivered remotely in novel ways. The patients had reported great benefits from the acupuncture service, so we were able to develop a simple training programme for the CT staff and devise clear information, diagrams and adhesive ear seeds for the patients to apply at home.

Relaxation therapy was also offered on a one-to-one basis by telephone, and we provided video recordings for relaxation, acupressure, reflexology self-treatment and aromatherapy, which our patients could access via YouTube and WhatsApp. The CT team now see patients again but there is no denying that wearing PPE has taken some of the fun out of it. The students also report that PPE is the biggest problem for them when doing their hands-on training. That said, by adapting the way we offer our services we are proud to have continued supporting our patients and students. We do feel very lucky to have been part of a

supportive team during this time and of course, as employees we have not had the same financial implications as our self-employed colleagues. That said we have been all too aware of the terrible implications of the pandemic on our colleagues within the main hospital.

As time goes on, it is important to take away the lessons from the pandemic in relation to our practice. One of the biggest concerns for us initially was that progress made with promoting the importance of CT’s would be lost, as the crisis absorbed resources and changed the landscape of care within the NHS. This was not the case — in fact, it has become apparent how much the complementary therapy service is valued by the integrated team, as we receive requests and demands from clinicians to reinstate the service as soon as possible. Adapting our work to continue to meet patient needs was highlighted early in the pandemic as a priority. This sends a strong message to our colleagues in the industry that CT can be seen as a core provision, rather than as an ‘added bonus’ which is what we have previously been perceived to be.

We have many financial and clinical constraints within the NHS. Our ability to meet the national strategy for healthcare while in a crisis demonstrates that complementary therapists both can and will rise to the challenge to deliver safe, competent care whatever the situation.

As services evolve and evidence grows to support the benefits we offer, it is important that we embrace change rather than resist it. If the team had been asked previously whether we believed a remote service could benefit the patients, we would have said no. What we have learned, is that we can indeed offer adapted interventions and still see benefits that are greatly valued by fellow clinicians. This new knowledge means that we can offer measurable support for patients who cannot access hands-on therapies whatever the reason, increasing our ability to support patients, and students in a fair and safe way. T

International therapist 47

Medical A-Z

ANOSMIA Anosmia is the loss or change in a person's sense of smell.

CAUSES Loss or change in sense of smell typically occurs following a cold or flu, a sinus infection, or as a result of an allergy or nasal polyps (NHS, 2020).

Anosmia is a well-known symptom of COVID-19, which means a large percentage of the population may be experiencing symptoms. Loss of smell is also common in people over 60; it is reported that over 75% of people over 80 have an olfactory impairment (Boyce JM and Shone GR, 2006).

It can also lead to phantosmia, smelling things that are not there, such as burnt toast or smoke, and parosmia, noticing a change in how things smell.

The severity of anosmia can range from slightly annoying, to having an impact on eating and quality of life (Ageing Care, 2020).

ORTHODOX TREATMENT Treatment for anosmia varies depending on the underlying cause and severity. If caused by an allergy or infection, sense of smell can be improved by cleaning the inside of the nose with a homemade saltwater solution. If symptoms are still occurring after a few weeks or months, a doctor may prescribe decongestants, antihistamines, a steroid nasal spray or drops.

COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY Smell training is said to support improvement in olfactory function. This involves working with professionals to test smell-ability, improving proficiency by regularly smelling essential oils and suggesting other resources for self-help.

A study in 2009 found that participants reported an improved sense of smell when given four essential oils (rose, eucalyptus, lemon and clove) to smell twice a day for 12 weeks. Of the test group, 45% reported some improvement in olfactory function compared to the group who didn’t participate (Hummel et al, 2009).

Research also indicates that regularly 48 International therapist

changing the variety of essential oils used while smell training can also be beneficial to improvement in olfactory function. A study commissioned by smell training company, Fifth Sense, monitored 86 people with anosmia over 12 weeks. Participants were split into three groups, a control group, a group receiving ‘typical’ smell training and the third group carrying out ‘modified’ smell training (receiving two different batches of smells over the period). The study concluded that some additional benefit can be gained from using a wider range of odours over a longer period than the 12 weeks used in earlier studies (Bordman, 2015).

Some studies indicate that acupuncture may help people to acquire a sense of smell. A study in 2016 tested Chinese acupuncture on 50 people who had reported losing their sense of smell. Of those, 25 were given traditional Chinese acupuncture three times a week over the course of four months and 25 were observed. Improved olfactory

In an article published in our online reading room, Heather Dawn Godfrey, MFHT, looks at how essential oils may have a significant role to play in aiding the recovery of post-viral anosmia, as well as alleviating other long-term symptoms of COVID-19 fht.org.uk/IT-136-RR-anosmia function was found in eleven patients treated with acupuncture, compared with four patients in the observation group (Dai et al, 2016).

NB: The information provided in this article is not all 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. T

References For full references, go to fht.org.uk/IT-references Spring 2021

Members News

Members News Anya Rae, 2020 FHT Student of the Year, talks about her background and ambitions for the future…

M

y very first job was working as a Saturday girl for a herbalist. By the age of 17, I was living and working abroad throughout Greece, Israel and Egypt.

When I returned to the UK I got a job as a swimming teacher and lifeguard in the Lake District. From this, I progressed into sports and leisure management and several years later, became a tutor for the Health and Safety Executive.

During this time I had two children and when my eldest son had to leave mainstream education due to autism and challenging behaviour, I was forced to step back from my career to home school him. As a single mum I needed to work, so I set up a pet services business to support our small family. When my son turned 18, I decided I wanted to re-train as a therapist, as complementary therapies had helped me to manage ankylosing spondylitis, a condition that is part of the rheumatoid arthritis family. After completing some reiki training, I signed up to study a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in complementary therapy at Ayrshire College, alongside a meditation teacher training course and sound therapy course in Glasgow.

Within Ayrshire College, there is an organisation called Bridge to Business, which offers mentoring, guidance and the possibility of a grant. They helped me to develop a business plan for 12, 24 and 36 months, which gave me a clear vision of where I wanted to go and the steps I needed to take to get me there.

My ultimate goal was to have my own health and wellbeing centre.

When COVID-19 arrived unexpectedly, I decided to make the most of the time I had during the lockdowns and completed some additional online training. I also progressed from my HNC to a HND, which I am still working towards, and when restrictions allowed, completed my training in reiki Spring 2021

and I am now a reiki master. As a result of working closely with my training provider, she became aware of my background and gave me a free franchise to become a training provider in reiki, sound healing and meditation.

The lockdowns also gave me time for lots of decorating and gardening, so I decided to try my luck and put my house up for sale, just as the market was peaking. It sold in record time and I managed to find a substantially cheaper house in a rural village and offered the estate agent a deal to take it off the market, so that I could place a bid on some commercial premises going to auction the same day. My offer for the house was accepted and that evening, I was also the proud new owner of an old vets building.

Things were moving quickly and thanks to receiving my enterprise grant of £5,000, I had some much-needed cash for essential repairs. One of the things that really attracted me to the premises was a huge studio upstairs, which with a little imagination could become a yoga, sound bath and meditation studio.

I am currently scrubbing, sanding and painting, in an effort to get my healing centre ready to open when the right time comes. My vision is to have different therapy rooms that I rent out to other therapists, a beauty room, a chill out area for tea between classes, and the studio upstairs will be rented out when I am not doing classes. I am also looking into developing my own range of aromatherapy products and hope to stock a variety of holistic products within the centre.

In addition, I am setting up a community enterprise project that will assist those with mental health issues, including depressed and suicidal teenagers and their families, and hope to run holistic training courses on a regular basis.

All in all, it’s been a whirlwind year, but I’m excited for the future! T

My ultimate goal was to have my own health and wellbeing centre. When COVID-19 arrived unexpectedly, I decided to make the most of the time I had..."

Anya Rae, 2020 FHT Student of the Year

International therapist 49

Research

New licensing process for MYMOP and MYCaW

M

YMOP (Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile) and MYCaW (Measure Yourself Concerns and Wellbeing) are validated patient-reported outcome measures that many therapists use in order to evaluate treatment outcomes and whether, for example, their clients have seen an improvement in their symptoms or concerns, or reduced their medication.

In our 2021 FHT Member Survey, just under a quarter of respondents

indicated that they had used MYMOP, MYCAW, WEMWBS (Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scales), PAM (Patient Activation Measure) or another type of measure / research tool to evaluate treatment outcomes.

Following the retirement of Dr Charlotte Patterson, who created both MYMOP and MYCaW, Drs Helen Seers and Marie Polley founded Meaningful Measures Ltd in August 2020, which now oversees the licensing process for

both measures, and provides support and advice on capturing person-centred outcomes.

A free licence for both MYMOP and MYCaW is available to all non-profitmaking organisations, while profitmaking organisations and individuals (including private practitioners / complementary therapists) will need to pay a fee.

For more information about MYMOP and MYCaW, visit meaningfulmeasures.co.uk

Removing make-up and atopic dermatitis

H Reflexology and migraines

F

or many, the key symptom of a migraine is a moderate to severe headache but other common symptoms include nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light and sound (NHS, 2021). As well as being considered one of the most disabling diseases, statistics published on the Migraine Trust’s website indicate that chronic migraine affects two per cent of the world population; that an estimated 190,000 migraine attacks occur in the UK every day; and that migraines cost the NHS around £150 million per year (Migraine Trust, 2020).

The results of a recent pragmatic study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice involving 20 subjects indicates that reflexology may have potential in relieving migraine symptoms (Smith and Thurgood, 2020).

All of the subjects had a medical diagnosis of migraine and self-referred for treatment, receiving a series of six reflexology sessions. Measure Yourself 50 International therapist

Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP) questionnaires were used at each appointment to record the subjects’ chosen primary symptoms and other data.

The results showed that 75% (15/20) of subjects had an improvement of two or more points in their overall MYMOP profile, with the greatest improvement found for symptom one, their chosen primary symptom.

In the conclusion, the authors also comment, '90% of the participants of this data collection had MYMOP profile changes of one or more points over six treatments of reflexology. This change is recognized as being of clinical significance to the individual. A fully randomized controlled trial is needed to confirm that the results we have seen in our small data collection are repeatable and generalizable. However, from the results of this case series, it is suggested that a series of six reflexology treatments could be a beneficial initial treatment for women with migraines.'

arsh rubbing of the skin can potentially worsen symptoms in those who have atopic dermatitis. A study published in Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology looked at the effects of rubbing the skin when removing make-up in 35 female subjects with mild atopic dermatitis on their faces (Hosokawa et al, 2020).

The subjects were given a cleansing oil that had a higher cleansing ability and required less rubbing than the products they had been using prior to the study.

After four weeks, a skin evaluation showed a significant decrease in skin dryness, scaling, irritation, erythema, itchiness and transepidermal water loss and a significant increase in moisture-retention.

Spring 2021

Research

Community support and Parkinson’s disease

P

arkinson’s disease is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world, with an estimated 145,000 people living with a Parkinson’s diagnosis in the UK in 2020 (Parkinson’s UK, 2021). It is a progressive disease caused by a reduction in dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine plays a vital role in regulating movement of the body and it’s the reduction in this chemical that is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with Parkinson's, including the three that are most common — tremor (shaking), slowness of movement and rigidity (muscle stiffness). In addition to the physical symptoms associated with the condition, many also experience mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and memory and sleep problems.

Social prescribing is an initiative gaining huge traction in England that enables GPs and other health professionals to connect their patients with a range of non-medical services, often available within the wider community, to help meet their

health and wellbeing needs in a more holistic way.

A recent study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice examined the benefits of (and barriers to) participating in a free, community-based Parkinson’s programme in America (Spencer et al, 2020). Through the programme, those with Parkinson’s and their families can access a wide range of activities, from support groups

and yoga, boxing and chair exercise classes, to speech and voice classes and educational meetings.

For the purposes of the study, a total of 85 people elected to take part in a survey – 64 had participated in the programme and 21 had not.

When asked how they had benefited from taking part in the programme, four key themes emerged from the responses given by participants: a sense of community and belonging; increased knowledge and understanding of the condition and coping strategies; a sense of hope and improved outlook on life; and physical improvements.

For those who had not participated in the programme, the chief reason given for this was living too far away or transport challenges. Another was fear of seeing symptom progression in others attending the programme, which the authors said ‘highlights the importance of future initiatives to dispel the potential misconceptions that individuals cannot live fulfilling lives throughout the PD [Parkinson’s disease] diagnosis’.

Progressive tendon-loading exercises for patellar tendinopathy

P

atellar tendinopathy (PT), also known as ‘jumper’s knee’, is a common injury in athletes, which usually presents as load-related pain in the patellar tendon, just below the kneecap. It is estimated that as many as 45% of elite athletes participating in sports that involve jumping, such as basketball and volleyball, suffer from PT (Lian et al, 2005). As well as resulting in time away from training and competitions, PT can also impact the athlete’s ability to take part in other physical activities, both personally and professionally.

An open-access study recently published in British Journal of Sports Medicine compared the effectiveness of progressive tendon-loading exercises (PTLE) with eccentric exercise therapy (EET) in 76 subjects diagnosed with patellar tendinopathy (PT), and found that PTLE provided superior clinical outcomes compared with EET after 24 weeks followup (Breda et al, 2020).

The authors comment that, 'The improved performance of PTLE is Spring 2021

important and clinically relevant as EET is commonly used in clinical practice and currently the recommended therapy in some guidelines (eg, NICE guidelines).

Our findings also indicate that PTLE is still beneficial in patients who previously did not improve during prior treatment for PT. We, therefore, recommend a PTLE programme with additional exercises targeting risk factors, load management and patient education as the basis of treatment for physically active patients with PT.'

The study indicated that additional benefits of PTLE included a higher return to sports rate compared with EET and that the exercises were significantly less painful to perform.

Access the full article by visiting the British Journal of Sports Medicine website (bjsm.bmj.com) and typing ‘103403’ in the search engine.

References For full references, go to fht.org.uk/IT-references International therapist 51

PRE - COVID-19

Profile

A Day in the life of...

Stephanie Chaytor, 2020 FHT Beauty Therapist of the Year and owner of salon, Karma Beauty and retail shop,Karma Boutique...

7:30am –

My miniature dachshund, Winston, wakes me up nice and early for his breakfast. He’s not much of a morning pup so climbs back to bed as soon as he finishes eating, while I eat my bowl of porridge.

8:00am -

I carry out my skin routine and finish with a little bit of make-up, just to add a glow to my cheeks. I pop my uniform on, clean my teeth and feel ready to conquer another day as a multi-business owner. Since launching my salon I have branched out and opened my own boutique shop.

8:30am - I only live around the corner from my salon, so a brisk 10-minute walk and I’m opening the salon doors. First in, I flick the kettle on, which is clearly the most important task of the day. Mornings tend to go quickly, the team and I have a catch up – I reflect on how grateful I am to have such a strong team, we all care for each other like sisters. I print off the therapists’ day sheets so they know when and who to expect, as well as how to prepare the treatment rooms.

9:30am -

The first clients arrive at the salon. During this time, I head to my office to check emails for each of the businesses, ensuring the online orders from the weekend have been posted out correctly and on time. I check through

52 International therapist

my stock and order what’s needed. It’s not often that a day goes by without a delivery arriving, which needs adding to my online boutique and displaying in our in-store space. Managing this on my own can be hard but I love it and wouldn’t change it for the world.

11:00am - I am thankful for my lovely receptionist who not only helps me with admin over the day, but also brings me a much-needed cup of tea herbal this time but I enjoy an English breakfast tea too.

1:00pm -

Lunchtime! By this point my belly is rumbling, a warm meal and a chat with the team is needed. I make sure I take a lunch break every day, it’s so important to have some time to switch off and just be ‘Steph’.

1:30pm -

After spending the morning ensuring my boutique is stocked, organised and looking beautiful, it is time for me to see clients.

Seeing clients is the best part of my job

and something I could never give up!

Clients come to me for a range of different treatments, from microblading to reflexology. I can be fully booked months in advance sometimes, so my regular clients book fortnightly rolling appointments to make sure they can get seen. To keep me sane, I have beauty days and aesthetic days, so I’m not jumping from an intimate wax to microblading. Today is a beauty day, filled with gel nails, eyebrow waxes and facials.

8:30pm -

Despite a busy day, my passion for cooking takes over as soon as I am home. On a Tuesday, my fiancé and I cook together. He prepares the food ready for when I walk through the door and we cook a wonderfully fresh dinner, before catching up at the table.

Finally, I melt away in a warming bubble bath – my favourite time of the day, before turning in for the night. T

Spring 2021

Competition

Competition Win one of ten FHT business packs,

worth £22 each.

A

s the UK starts to ease its way out of the latest lockdown, why not get off to a great start with the FHT business pack, containing everything you need to promote your professional status to clients.

The business pack is made up of 272 pieces of marketing collateral, including: l Appointment cards – 100 cards per pack with space for your client’s name, appointment date, time, the treatment they have booked with you and your business details. l Loyalty cards – 50 cards per pack with ten stamp areas. l Gift cards – 20 cards in the design of your choice, with space for you to write any treatment or £ value and your business details, plus envelopes. l Marketing leaflets – 100 leaflets including space for your business details to distribute in your local area. l Membership cardholder and lanyard – simply insert your membership card into the protective card holder and display your professional status at all times. l Cotton tote – perfect for carrying supplies to your clients’ homes/premises, this 100% natural cotton bag has a long handle for comfortable wear.

Illustration: Shutterstock

Do we have your latest email address?

Throughout COVID-19, we have been sending regular emails to our members, providing up-to-date information and advice, as well as links to useful resources for when it is safe to return to practice.

If you have not been receiving these, make sure we have your latest email address by visiting fht.org.uk/email

Spring 2021

To enter, please answer the following question: What six items make up the FHT business pack?

A) Appointment planner, FHT calendar, gift cards, a membership cardholder and lanyard and a cotton tote.

B) Business cards, posters, leaflets, FHT stickers and a cotton tote.

C) Appointment cards, loyalty cards, gift cards, marketing leaflets, membership cardholder and lanyard and a cotton tote.

Simply email your name, address, membership number and answer to Leanne Sheill at lsheill@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 Hampshire, SO50 4SR The closing date is Saturday 29 May 2021.

For full competition terms and conditions, visit fht.org.uk/competitions for full T&Cs

Competition winners -

International Therapist, Issue 135 Competition: Six Base Formula essential oil mood gift sets, worth £17.50 each Winners: Tracey Nixon, MFHT Neil Boocock, MFHT Paula Goddard, FFHT Christine Ainscough, MFHT Anne-Marie Rose, MFHT Valerie Evans, MFHT Time to Heal (p28): one of three copies of Time to Heal – Tales of a Country Doctor, by Dr Michael Dixon Winners: Christina Menig, MFHT Joanna Wragg, MFHT Sara Lucy Morgan, MFHT Spiral quiz (p57): £20 John Lewis & Partners gift card and a copy of Pilates for Rehabilitation, by Samantha Wood.

Winner: Tina Proudfoot, MFHT 2021 FHT Member Survey: £100 John Lewis & Partners gift card and a year’s free FHT membership, and £20 John Lewis & Partners gift card for runners up Winner: Christine Gomm, MFHT Runners up: Panna Vaidya, MFHT Venia Byrom, MFHT Didem Uruk, MFHT Jody Ross, MFHT Denise Macey, MFHT International therapist 53

New products

1 3

THE GURU’S GUIDE TO REFLEXOLOGY BY JANE SHEEHAN

2 4

The Gurus’ Guide series is designed for experienced reflexologists and those just starting out. The second book in this series focuses on hormones and the thirteen specialist gurus explore puberty, fertility, infertility, pregnancy, maternity and menopause.

The book is split into two sections, the first looking at reflexology techniques and the second explaining how to support yourself as the therapist, as well as your clients.

Price: £29.99, available from footreading.com

WRAP AROUND WRIST SUPPORT The Actimove® elastic wrap-around wrist support provides adjustable support with padded comfort for aching and fatigued wrists. Balanced warmth and medical compression features support pain relief and the perforated material provides comfort and good breathability.

This product can be worn on either arm to support weak, aching and fatigued wrists during sports.

Price: £10, available from physique.co.uk

New products

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

ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY AND PATHOLOGY FOR THERAPISTS AND HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS BY RUTH HULL Written in a clear, no-nonsense style, this textbook is aimed at complementary therapy students up to level three, or any healthcare student requiring a detailed knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology.

Designed for use both in the classroom and as a home study resource, it contains updated graphics and tables throughout to modernise the book for today’s student.

This book also features comprehensive muscle tables of origin, insertion, innervation, action and contains the basic pathology of significant diseases and disorders.

RRP: £21.99, available from lotuspublishing.co.uk

NEAL’S YARD CHILDREN’S HAND WASH

This handwash cleanses little hands, leaving them smelling fresh and clean. Formulated with a naturally soothing blend of chamomile, lavender and propolis, the wash is designed to provide calming qualities.

This product has been demagogically tested as being gentle enough to be used on newborn babies weighing 6lb 10oz and over.

Price: £7.50, available from nealsyardremides.com

We love

FHT Editor and Communications Manager, Karen Young, shares her favourite product with our members.

‘I have quite a few favourite products but I have to say, my favourite brand of deodorant for some time now is Fit Pit. It smells lovely (I’m currently using Fit Pit Woman, which is scented with lavender and bergamot), is easy to apply, performs well and is 100% organic.

I also like the fact that it’s handmade in the UK and comes in a glass jar which I can reuse or recycle – another two big ticks for me, as I continue my efforts to make more environmentally-friendly choices.’

Price: from £4 (25ml) available from thegreenwoman.co.uk Please note that product descriptions featured on these pages are provided by the supplier/manufacturer.

54 International therapist

Spring 2021

The WaveStone, the ergonomic Massage Stone. Hand Carved from White Jade made to give a unique Massage Experience for your clients whilst saving stress on the Therapists Wrists, Hands and Fingers.

FHT & IMA accredited courses earning CPD

WaveStone Online Workshop

New for 2021 WaveStone Heated case

WaveStone Spheres

Courses are done either online, on location or with one of our approved instructors at various location in the UK. Why not look into doing a course ASAP so that you will be able to offer WaveStone treatments as soon as lockdown is over.

WaveStone Vegan

friendly Balms For further information visit www.thewavestone.co.uk

Spring 2021

International therapist 55

Continuing Professional Development

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

Q

In her article, Penny outlines how the properties found in four essential oils can help to improve sleep. Explain how four different essential oils can help to address another health and wellbeing issue.

Q

More evidence is emerging regarding the serious impact sleep deprivation can have on our health and wellbeing. Research how a lack of sleep is bad for your health, using reliable sources of information.

THE LONGEST NERVE (P26-29)

Q

Explain how you would use a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) or a Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) to help your client understand their own pain levels and how to manage the pain they are experiencing.

SUN PROTECTION (P32-33)

Q

Detail the most effective strategy to protect your skin from the sun, explaining why it’s important to avoid UVA and UVB rays.

Q

Provide a case study of a time you have approached the subject of sun protection with a client, outlining the steps taken and the overall outcome.

(This activity would be worth 5 CPD points – for more guidance and a case study template, see fht.org.uk/cpd.)

PRODUCTS FROM THE HEART (P38-40)

Q

Explain the compliance processes that need to be considered when launching products on the market.

Q

What issues does Brexit present to small businesses exporting products and how might this impact therapists?

Q

Research some passive and active stretches that could be suggested to help a client with sciatica and explain why these stretches are particularly beneficial to improving pain in those with the condition.

56 International therapist

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

3 Professional representation.

4 The industry’s leading professional therapist magazine.

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

6 Discounted continued professional learning.

7 The UK’s largest local group network.

8 FHT branded products and member discounts on therapy supplies.

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

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

MYOFACSIAL RELEASE (P42-43)

Q

Outline the different exercises you can carry out at home and why these are particularly beneficial to releasing fascia. T For more information about how to gain CPD points by reflecting on your favourite articles, visit fht.org.uk/cpd

2021 Annual membership fees* FHT Member: £62.99 FHT Associate: £68.24 Student Member**: £24.99 FHT Affiliate: £36.74 Overseas Member: from £73.49 Qualified Combined Medical Malpractice, Public and Products insurance: from £46.81

1 Professional status and recognition.

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

Terms and conditions apply.

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

Illustrations: Shutterstock

AROMATHERAPY AND SLEEP (P14-17)

10

Top

reasons for being an FHT member

Spring 2021

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 to log in and have a browse.

Feeling what our clients feel In this article, shiatsu practitioner and author, Cindy Engel, PhD, explores the topic of ‘somatic empathy’ – a therapist’s ability to ‘feel what their clients feel’.

Having experienced this phenomenon very early on in her therapy career, Cindy researched the subject for many years. She discovered that somatic empathy, in its simplest terms, is 'a natural way of understanding others without language. It is how we understood each other before we evolved language and it is how we understand each other non-verbally'. fht.org.uk/IT-136-RR-somatic-empathy

Essential oils as an aid to post-viral anosmia Anosmia is a loss or change in a person’s sense of smell, which can be caused by viral infections, including COVID-19. Aromatherapist and author, Heather Dawn Godfrey, MFHT, looks at how essential oils may have a significant role to play

FHT Spiral No. 38

in aiding the recovery of post-viral anosmia, as well as alleviating other long-term symptoms of COVID-19, such as fatigue, depression and lack of concentration. fht.org.uk/IT-136-RR-anosmia

Using compatible methods Rafe Nauen, MFHT, provides a short introduction to three methods he often combines to support his clients: Family Constellation Therapy (FCT), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and Matrix. 'By combining these three together, clients report remarkable shifts in how their families ‘fit’. People find it becomes much easier to shift in the ‘here and now’ when they recognise where their attitudes and core beliefs derive from'. fht.org.uk/IT-136-compatible-methods

1

5

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

8 12

The winner will also receive a copy of Know Your Body and Know Your Body Workbook, by FHT Vice President, Mary Dalgleish, worth more than £30 (anatomyandphysiology.co.uk).

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

13

9 14

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

Entries to be received no later than 31 May 2021.

CROSSWORD CLUES 1. Foot bones (11) 2. Lateral curvature of the spine (9) 3. Eg. corneum, lucidum (7) 4. Protective covering that insulates axons (6,6) 5. High blood pressure (12) 6. Symptoms of this type of polyp can include a runny nose, reduced sense of

4

15

10 6 2

smell and snoring (5) 7. Cancer of the white blood cells (9) 8. A substance that inhibits or kills bacteria, eg. penicillin (10) 9. P ainful involuntary contraction of the muscles (5) 10. E rector - - - -, small muscles that make hairs stand on end when contracted (4)

11 7 3

11. F enced it (anag.), containing harmful bacteria (8) 12. Hearing impaired (4) 13. A cid recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy (5) 14. - - - - - - - - spine, spondylosis, screening (8) 15. Arms and legs (5)

Where’s the solution for spiral no. 37?

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. 37 featured in issue 135 (Winter 2021).

Spring 2021

International therapist 57

Courses

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

Please check online for updates…

Please note that due to coronavirus (COVID-19), there may be some changes to FHT Hosted Courses scheduled to take place over the coming months.

We will be closely monitoring the situation and will let members know as soon as possible if any courses are affected, and explain the options available to you.

For the latest information, please visit fht.org.uk/training

58 International therapist

Spring 2021

Courses

TRIGGER POINTS FOR BEGINNERS

Discover how the EMMETT technique addresses pain and body movement.

This course contains eleven moves which have been specially selected from the EMMETT techniques practitioner course.

Course tutor: Various Course dates: n 12 June — Guildford n 11 September — Harrogate Prices start from: £100

This workshop will teach you how to identity and deactivate trigger points, how to teach clients to deactivate their own trigger points and the theory surrounding these.

Course tutor: Jane Johnson Course dates: n 5 June — Manchester n 26 June — Bristol Prices start from: £110

Couch required Model required

INTRODUCTION TO PRACTICAL MYOFASCIAL RELEASE This face-to-face course is suitable for any bodywork or movement therapists interested in learning more about fascia and myofascial release. Learn about the properties of fascia, how chronic pain develops and practice simple yet effective techniques for the whole body.

Course tutor: Amanda Oswald Course dates: n 5 June — London Prices start from: £120

POSTURAL ASSESSMENT Many therapists believe there is a relationship between posture and pain and clients are often fascinated to know more about their posture, too. Discover more about postural assessment and understanding what your observations mean in this valuable webinar.

Course tutor: Jane Johnson Webinar date: n 7 May — Anywhere Prices start from: £10

TAPING FOR BEGINNERS This course will teach you how to safely and effectively use elasticated theratape for clients with common musculoskeletal conditions.

Course tutor: Jane Johnson Course dates: n 24 July – Manchester Prices start from: £110

ADVANCED CRYSTAL THERAPY FOR PRACTITIONERS AND HEALERS – LEVEL 1 This course will enable therapists to gain an understanding of what crystal therapy is, how it works and how crystals can be incorporated into a wide range of complementary therapies to enhance and refine treatments.

Course tutor: Shirley O'Donoghue Course dates: n 11 – 12 September — Basingstoke Prices start from: £200

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

Course tutor: Cameron Reid Course date: n 15 – 16 May 2021 — Anywhere Prices start from: £160 Visit fht.org.uk/training for our full list of courses and to book your place.

Spring 2021

International therapist 59

Main picture: Shutterstock

FHT Hosted Courses give you the opportunity to develop your skill set and grow your treatment offering.

The courses gain you one point per hour to go towards your continuing professional development (CPD) and FHT members benefit from a discount 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.

EMM-TECH SHORT COURSE

T

Courses

FHT accredited course providers NEWS

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

FHT accredited course provider news I had a long-held wish to take my Total Release Experience® programme into prisons, knowing how the benefits would allow the prisoners to let go of their past and any anger.

In 2016 I had a chance conversation with one of my clients, who told me he worked in a prison and put me in touch with a colleague.

My son Daniel and I had no experience in this new world we were entering but were focused on our purpose.

Our first day was a pivotal one, 12 inmates were in attendance and we suddenly felt the pressure to engage and intrigue – could we do this? I drew a deep breath

IRELAND

Deirdre Murray Holistic Sligo deirdremurrayholistic.ie Golden Egg Holistic goldeneggholistic.com Irish Institute of Nutrition & Health Ltd iinh.net Kerry School of Reflexology kerryreflexology.com Pyramid Holistic Centre pyramidholisticcentre.ie Saint Martin’s College of Orthopaedic Therapy stmartinscollege.ie Tara School of Reflexology & Therapies www.taraschoolofreflexology.ie The European College of Reflexology and Massage ecrm.ie

SCOTLAND

Hailey Dallas Brows Ltd Haileydallasbrows.com Holistic Ecosse makima@hotmail.co.uk

60 International therapist

Mind Detox Academy minddetoxacademy.com Rosslyn Alternatives rosslynalternatives.co.uk New Shiatsu and Thai Massage Training Scotland stmts.co.uk Start with Touch Ltd startwithtouch.co.uk The Glasgow School of Massage theglasgowschoolofmassage.com Therapia School of Reflexology therapiagourock.com

NORTHERN IRELAND

Angel Haven angelhaven.co.uk Body and Sole School of Complementary Therapies bodyandsoleschool.co.uk Dorothy Kelly Academy of Reflexology dorothykellyacademyofreflexology.com

and started to introduce who we were and what we were there for. They all engaged and went with the flow. An officer walked in towards the end of the session and said, ‘I have never seen them so quiet, what have you done with them?!’.

After two and a half years, we have witnessed prisoners letting go of their past, coming away from drugs and finding peace in themselves.

Caroline Purvey, accredited course provider and founder of TRE UK®, wrote Feel it to Heal it where she shares insights from her eight years of experience, including her time working in prisons. Find out more at tre.com.

Elaine Curry Wellness Academy with Calm Confident Kids calmconfidentkids.co.uk elainecurry.com Logan Wellbeing and Medical loganwellbeing.com New Beginnings School of Natural Therapies angelsanctuary.co.uk Sheila Nugent School of Reflexology sheilanugentschoolofreflexology.co.uk

NORTH WEST

Acupuncture Training for Therapists Ltd acupuncturetrainingproviders.co.uk Angela Pollard Therapies angelapollardtherapies.co.uk New BodEquality www.bodequality.com Breathworks breathworks-mindfulness.co.uk British Academy of Crystal Healing britishacademyofcrystalhealing.co.uk

Spring 2021

Courses Dorn Method Academy UK (Jacqui) dornmethodlakedistrict.co.uk Dorn Method Lake District dornmethodlakedistrict.co.uk Female Fitness Academy the-ffa.com Gaia School of Natural Health gaiaschool.org.uk Greenhouse Therapies New greenhousetherapies.co.uk KORE Academy Ltd koretherapy.com Natural Touch Training naturaltouchtraining.co.uk Reiki Tradition reikitradition.me.uk The Master Academy/ Urban Body Balance urbanbalance.co.uk

NORTH EAST

Jong Baik Education jongbaik.co.uk New Soundaffects Soundaffects.uk.com The No1 Pain Relief Clinic theno1painreliefclinic.co.uk

YORKSHIRE AND THE HUMBER

Anna-Louise Haigh anna-louisehaigh.com Ashwood Beauty & Holistic Academy ashwoodacademy.co.uk Chi Medics ™ chi-medics.com Elemental Women New elementalwomen.co.uk Eve’s Garden (Alison Valerie Peart) eves-garden.co.uk NHS Natural Health School nhsnaturalhealthschool.co.uk Pain Care Clinic paincareclinic.co.uk New The Sound Therapy Company thesoundtherapycompany.co.uk Total Therapies Training totaltherapies.co.uk

EAST MIDLANDS

Fertility Massage fertilitymassage.co.uk Holistic Tai Chi Qigong Training Academy UK hqtauk.com Infinity Training Academy infinitytrainingacademy.co.uk Lindsey Lodge Hospice lindseylodhehospice.org.uk Penny Price Aromatherapy Ltd aromatherapy-courses.co.uk/ Pressure Point pressurepoint.me Shirley Price International College of Aromatherapy shirleyprice.co.uk The Active School of Complementary Therapy ukmassagecourses.com Total Body Therapy gentlereleasetherapy.com Tri-Dosha tri-dosha.co.uk

WEST MIDLANDS

Ascent Therapies Training Academy ascent-therapies.co.uk Bespoke Beauty and Holistic Training bespokebeauty0@gmail.com Central School of Massage

Spring 2021

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

WALES

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

SOUTH WEST

Abbigail Langstone-Wring Weymouth Dorset dorsetclinicalreflexology.co.uk Amethyst Trust amethysttrust.co.uk Barnes School of Sports Therapy barnesclinic-school.com Cheltenham School of Complementary Therapy & Beauty thetherapyschool.co.uk Coastal Therapies coastaltherapiesdevon.co.uk Core Elements coreelements.uk.com Cotswold Academy of Health and Beauty cotswoldacademy.co.uk Devon Academy of Complementary Therapies devonacademy.co.uk Functional Anatomy New functionalanatomy.com II Intuitive Ltd 2intuitive.co.uk JemmaCo Limited

jemmaco.com/training Light Touch Therapy Training New lightouch.co.uk Lovegrove Essentials Ltd lovegroveessentials.com Massage for Dementia massagefordementia.co.uk Sunshine Hair & Beauty Training Academy sunshinetraining.co.uk The Children’s Reflexology Programme kidsreflex.co.uk The Seed Institute theseedinstitute.co.uk Touchline Training Ltd touchlinetraining.co.uk Tranquillity Zone Training tranquillityzonetraining.co.uk University of St Mark & St John marjon.ac.uk Weston Hospicecare westonhospicecare.org.uk With Intention Healing withintention.co.uk

SOUTH EAST

New Aromalyne aromalyne.com Brighton Holistics brightonholistics.co.uk Brighton School of Massage brightonschoolofmassage.co.uk Calming Influences Ltd calminginfluences.com Centre for Nutrition Education and Lifestyle Management cnelm.co.uk Cherubs Training Academy - Hampshire cherubsbabyhealth.com College of Classical Massage Ltd collegeofclassicalmassage.com Elemi Training elemitraining.co.uk Freedom Therapies Training freedomtherapies.co.uk Hawaiian Massage UK Training Centre huna-massage.com Holistic Beauty Academy holisticbeautyacademy.co.uk HypnoTC: The Hypnotherapy Training Company hypnotc.com Innamincka Training Services itsperou@depinaperou.plus.com Jane Sheehan footreading.com London School of Complementary Health Ltd lsch.co.uk Lucis College lucisgroup.com Mary Atkinson Holistic Therapy Courses maryatkinson.org.uk Peter Symonds Adult and Higher Education College psc.ac.uk Purple Turtle purpleturtletherapy.co.uk Reflexmaster reflexmaster.co.uk RJ Buckle Associates rjbuckle.com Shakra Centre shakracentre.com Shared Beauty Secrets sharedbeautysecrets.com Story Massage storymassage.co.uk The Academy of New Systematic Kinesiology kinesiology.co.uk

International therapist 61

Courses The Advanced Attraction Company Ltd carolynebennett101@gmail.com New The College of Functional Kinesiology functionalkinesiology.co.uk The Five Key Programme keyworkshops.co.uk The School of Abdominal Sacral Massage abdominal-sacralmassage.com Total Release Experience (TRE UK®) treuk.com Training4Healthcare training4healthcare.co.uk

EAST OF ENGLAND

Academy of Advanced Beauty academyofadvancedbeauty.com Cameron Reid Training cameronreidtraining.co.uk New Culinary Medicine College culinarymedicinecollege.com Functional Reflex Therapy functionalreflextherapy.co.uk Gladwell School of Massage gladwellschoolofmassage.com Helen Mary Perkins helenperkins.com Hypnosis Courses Ltd New hypnosis-courses.com Ingrid Perrin New roseonthegreen.co.uk On the Spot Training Centre sallymorris.co.uk Phoenix Holistic & Complementary New Therapy Training phoenixhbnt.co.uk Progressive Kinesiology Academy UK progressive-kinesiology.co.uk SKN-RG Academy skn-rg.com The Abbeyfields Clinic theabbeyfieldsclinic.co.uk The Holistic Academy holistic-academy.co.uk The Lancaster System lancastersystem.co.uk

LONDON

Ayurveda Pura Academy ayurvedapura.com Eva Nagy Massages New evanagymassages.co.uk

Gong Bodywork doewarnes.co.uk Jivita Ayurveda Ltd jivitaayurveda.com Kneads Must / Kneader Massage (KOM) kneadsmust.com London College of Massage/ Massageworks londoncollegeofmassage.co.uk London Institute of Thai Yoga Massage learntomassage.co.uk New Magni Academy magniskin.co.uk Neal’s Yard Remedies School of Natural Medicine nealsyardremedies.com School of Natural Therapies schoolofnaturaltherapies.co.uk Shen Mantra shenmantra.com Spanu Massage spanumassage.com St Mary’s University smuc.ac.uk/shortcourses UnitedMind Ltd unitedmind.co.uk Ziggie Bergman zonefacelift.com Ziggie Bergman with the London School of Reflexology zonefacelift.com

NATIONAL

Anatomy and Physiology Online anatomy-and-physiology-online-courses. co.uk Essential Training Solutions Ltd essential-training.co.uk Gateway Workshops gatewayworkshops.co.uk Health Kinesiology UK healthkinesiologytraining.com Jennifer Young and Beauty Despite Cancer beautydespitecancer.co.uk London School of Massage londonschoolofmassage.co.uk Stonebridge Associated Colleges stonebridge.uk.com The Balance Procedure Limited thebalanceprocedure.com The College of Bowen Studies thebowentechnique.com The Chrysalis Effect thechrysaliseffect.com

Training By Professionals VTCT Approved Centre

Sports • Remedial • Holistic Courses & Workshops For All Course Details Contact:

tel: 07796 297071

www.prestontherapycentre.co.uk 62 International therapist

Vitali-Chi Headquarters v-chi.com Wavestone Therapies Ltd thewavestone.co.uk Womb & Fertility Massage fertilitymassage.co.uk

INTERNATIONAL

American Fitness Professionals & Associates afpafitness.com Beijing ReStart Biotech Ltd 5restart.com Blossom & Berry Baby Massage & Yoga Training blossomandberry.com Butterfly Touch Therapies Limited butterflytouchtherapiestraining.com Cosmo Kemp School of Thai Yoga Massage cosmothaiyoga.com Extraordinary Kinesiology extraordinarychannels.com Health Coach Institute, LLC healthcoachinstitute.com Institute of Transformational Nutrition (ITN) transformationalnutrition.com Jari Jari Spa jarijari.com.my Liddle Kidz Foundation liddlekidz.org MSTR mcloughlin-scar-release.com New Vision Therapy newvisiontherapy.co.uk PureAroma Healing Academy purearoma.com.tw Rapid NeuroFascial Reset rapidnfr.com Rinalda Therapeutic Kneads rinaldatherapeutickneads.com Shenzhen Hui Yun Aroma Health Consulting Co. Ltd huimeichiang@gmail.com Shiny Forest Ltd shinyforest.com Singapore SPA Institute spainstitute.com.sg The Institute of Aromatherapy aromashoppe.com Please visit fht.org.uk/accreditation for more information about FHT accredited qualifications and short courses.

Stay up to date with all the latest news by following us Facebook facebook.com/fht.org.uk Instagram @internationaltherapistmag Twitter @fht_Org

Spring 2021

News

Industry news

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

Orchard View Naturals celebrates more than a decade since the launch of it’s Triple Rose Facial Oil The Triple Rose Facial Oil was first launched in 2009, by aromatherapist Lucy Stevens at Orchard View Naturals and has been celebrated in the press and media for a decade. It first appeared in the press when Sarah Stacey of the Beauty Bible wrote about its benefits and featured it in a skincare special for a UK national newspaper.

Consumers often call it ‘liquid gold’ because of the authentic golden colour and velvety texture. While the formula is the same as it was at its launch, the packaging has since been updated and the name is now Vital Botanical Facial Oil, to reflect its affinity with the properties that support a radiant look. This it is 99% organic and 100% natural, with a deep, rosy aroma which is calming and relaxing.

Since its launch, OV naturals skincare has strived to be as sustainable as possible, sourcing carefully from independent suppliers and avoiding unnecessary packaging. Vital comes in a recyclable glass bottle, with the choice of pump, pipette initially and then for refills, a screw-cap option to help reduce waste. n RRP: £16, available from ovnaturals.co.uk

Public Health England publishes advice on tackling inequalities in physical activity A new guide for those working in the fitness sector called ‘Understanding and addressing inequalities in physical activity’ has been published by Public Health England to help break down the barriers that prevent people from taking part in exercise.

It identifies three key areas to consider, to examine the barriers to people exercising community consultation and to adopt a holistic approach to protected characteristics and intersectionality.

One of the authors of this guidance, Jessica Jackson, research nurse in health, psychology and social care at University of Derby, said, ‘There is a wide range of evidence-based interventions which aim to increase population based physical activity.

‘However, evidence suggests that many interventions exacerbate inequalities for communities with protected characteristics […].

‘It is hoped that this information will be useful for commissioners, from a variety of sectors, to proactively work towards equal opportunities for all individuals in health and wellbeing.’ n fht.org.uk/IT-135-social-inequalities

Spring 2021

A guide to talking therapies For those currently in therapy, seeking therapy, considering returning to therapy, or supporting a loved one through it, The Essential Companion to Talking Therapy by Karin Blak provides a helpful guide to understanding talking therapies.

Author and relationship therapist Karin Blak looks into the facts of how therapists work and clarifies questions, misunderstandings, myths and grey areas in talking therapies. The book is designed to compassionately guide the reader through the entire therapeutic journey, from considering therapy and finding the right therapist, to knowing when to end therapy, and when to return. n RRP: £14.99 from watkinspublishing.com

Candle brand launched by make-up artist Terre candles were launched in 2016 by Sandra Fuzier, an inspiring French make-up artist who developed a passion for painting. This passion for creating art opened up a world of possibility where Sandra’s creativity aligned with her desire to connect with others.

Understanding the connection between our senses and emotions became a backdrop to her creative life and she began to explore her love for fragrance. Inspired by the calming energy and warmth of a candle and how this could create complexity within a fragrance, the concept of Terre was born. Terre is designed to energise the senses and create an atmosphere of serenity and calm. n terrecandle.co.uk International therapist 63

"A sort of bible for anyone who wants to know about the process of finding a therapist, becoming a therapist, what to expect and how to get the most out of your journey, and then some."

Hazel Butterfield, Presenter on Women's Radio

"A beautifully written demystification of the

"A clear, humane and honest guide full of

therapeutic journey – an invaluable book."

insider tips to support anyone in therapy."

Malcolm Stern, psychotherapist and author of Slay Your Dragons With Compassion

Alice McGurran, welldoing.org

Available to purchase online and in all good bookshops.

www.watkinspublishing.com 64 International therapist

Spring 2021

CPD Complementary Therapies in Cancer Care

eLearning for Massage Reflexology or Reiki Adapt Your Therapies To Treat Patients With Cancer .

Unique eLearning course created from award winning Cancer Care Workshop Also suitable for healthcare professionals working within Oncology.

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

of

."

A family run business developing and producing 1 00% natural Beeswax based products.

• Our Massage Wax range offers professional therapists a variety of delicately formulated aromatic blends - one to suit every client!

• A fantastic alternative to massage oil - with no spills!

• Leaves skin nourished and hydrated without feeling oily • Protects delicate skin, perfect for Baby massage (Be Sensitive) • Recyclable packaging • 1 00% Natural Ingredients.

Visit our website to see our great multibuy offers and for more information on our product range

www.highlandwax.co.uk Highland Wax Company, Foynesfield Cottage, Nairn IV1 2 5SA 01 667 451 736 info@highlandwax.co.uk

Spring 2021

FHT Accredited Courses by

Core Elements

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

International therapist 65

Guest column

employment and it will send a message that the treasury recognises the therapy industry is important for wellbeing.

We have all suffered from loneliness over the past year, missing those small social contacts that just keep us ticking over. I don’t mean the loss of the Christmas party, the summer weddings or the annual holiday, I mean those everyday opportunities to sit and have a chat. My hairdresser, has acted as my informal counsellor on many occasion, and the same goes for Reena, my beautician. I am missing this valuable time, as I am sure so many others are while the therapy industry is closed.

and finally...

Caroline Nokes MP discusses the budget and her work towards boosting the government’s financial support for therapists.

S

pringtime in Parliament does not necessarily herald pastel hues and a brighter outlook, but it does bring the budget, which is a political opportunity never to be missed. Much of January and February has been spent in consultation with the Chancellor and his team, trying to convey the message that it is important to have an economic recovery that works for the whole of the UK population.

As Chair of the Women and Equalities Select Committee my focus in every discussion has been about the 51% of the population who are women. I have found the Chancellor to consistently be receptive to the message that any recovery cannot leave women behind and he knows (largely because I have told him repeatedly) that the wider wellbeing industry employed 300,000 women in 2020. When I say employed, I mean in the 66 International therapist

widest possible sense, because I am very conscious that many are self-employed, or are directors of limited companies — the entrepreneurs and self-starters that our economy thrives on in the good times and desperately needs right now.

But it is not all about women. It may be that only 11% of those in the sector are men, but they are an integral and valued part of the industry. I am very conscious that both my hairdresser and manicurist are male, who have to try to repair the damage I inflict on my own appearance, poor souls. Interestingly, 40% of the manicurists at the nail bar I visit are male.

It will come as no surprise that I have been pressing hard for a VAT reduction for the sector. I think this makes fiscal sense, giving small businesses just a bit of a break as they begin to reopen after the most horrific year. It’ll keep some businesses viable, some people in

Tackling loneliness has been on the government’s agenda for years, and as we look to the rest of 2021 it has come to the fore even more. Recovery can’t just be about the economy; it has to be about our physical and mental resilience. I will be pressing ministers over the course of the next few months to work out what the wellbeing recovery plan looks like. COVID-19 has taught us that physical wellbeing is very important to be able to resist the worst ravages of disease, I don’t want to see a nanny state obesity programme but a holistic approach to empower people to take charge of their own wellbeing.

Of course, I could be overly optimistic, but I am looking to 2021 as an opportunity to learn the lessons and look forward. The tragic loss in February of Captain Sir Tom Moore reminded us of his incredibly positive outlook and the mantra, ‘Tomorrow is a good day’ — it is time to make sure the tomorrows of 2021 are good days. 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. carolinenokes.com

Spring 2021

Running your own business?

Protect it.

Our business stock and equipment insurance can provide cover from £1,000 to £10,000 for accidental loss and damage. It includes: • business contents used and kept at the premises, or in your employee’s home, for business use • any stock or equipment in transit • the personal belongings of your employees or visitors to your business premises It also covers glass breakage, personal assault, rent of business premises and loss of money.

Not yet taking advantage of our insurance policy?

Make sure you ask your current provider what’s included, or contact our team for more information about upgrading.

INSURANCE PROVIDED BY

Call 023 8062 4350 or email info@fht.org.uk FIND OUT MORE AT FHT.ORG.UK/INSURANCE Spring& 2021 Terms conditions apply. See fht.org.uk for details.

International therapist 67

Peace of mind for you with our

tailor-made insurance Now with personal accident cover as standard At the FHT, we’re extremely proud to support members with our robust package of membership benefits. And thanks to our insurance partners Hiscox, we’re also able to ensure that you’re covered with an insurance policy that keeps you and your clients safe.

Our medical malpractice, public and products liability insurance policy covers more than 360 therapies, with lots of added extras included too: • Up to £5,000 to cover expenses that arise from identity fraud • Up to 30 days cover to work abroad • Replacement official documents if lost or irrevocably damaged

Not yet taking advantage of our insurance policy?

Make sure you ask your current provider what’s included, or contact our team for more information about upgrading.

INSURANCE PROVIDED BY

Call 023 8062 4350 or email info@fht.org.uk FIND OUT MORE AT FHT.ORG.UK/INSURANCE Terms & conditions apply. See fht.org.uk for details.

68 International therapist

Spring 2021