Look Local Magazine, April 2019 Edition, Issue 80 by Look Local Magazine

Your FREE Local Magazine www.look-localmagazine.co.uk

April 2019 Issue 80

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April 2019

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Welcome

Hello Readers, Welcome to the April 2019 Edition of Look Local Magazine!

28 Contents 06. Motoring: Volvo V60 Cross Country Review, by Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist. 11. Get the Look: Important things to consider when choosing a stone worktop with Coulon Stone. 18/19. News & Events: What’s On in our region. 21. Enjoy a family day out at the Abingdon Air & Country Show. 22/23. The Sound of Music: Simon Markland talks us through this months local music scene. 24. Health & Wellbeing: The hidden dangers of Mini Eggs. 25. Health & Wellbeing: Transition

through the seasons with Acupuncture at Thame Therapy Clinic.

26. Health & Wellbeing: Back Pain Case Study from Bowen Therapist, Jen Webster. 27. Health & Wellbeing: *NEW Wellbeing Column* by Linden 28. Health & Wellbeing: Live a hairfree life with ERA Skin & Laser Clinic. 29. Health & Wellbeing: *HEALTHY RECIPE idea by Flawsome Jem. 30. Health & Wellbeing: What you need to know about your child’s hearing by Aston Hearing Clinic.

With Easter in mind I want to turn your attention to a very important article on page 24, supplied by First for Safety Oxfordshire, about the hidden dangers of Mini Eggs. Most parents are aware of grapes being a chocking hazard for young children but many of us probably don’t even think about these little chocolate treats as being harmful. So please do take a read. It could help save a life. If you’re on a health kick at the moment but still want to enjoy a bit of chocolate over the Easter period then turn to page 29 where Flawsome Jem features her Chocolate Protein Muﬃns recipe - I’m going to give them a whirl myself as they sound delicious and healthy too! If you’re looking for activities to do with the family this month and into early May, Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway has lots going on plus the Abingdon Air and Country Show returns once more on Sunday 5th May. There’s still time to enter last issue’s competition to WIN TICKETS to this event. Head over to the Look Local website and click on the ‘competition tab’ on the main menu for rules of entry. Last but not least, I bring to you another new regular feature in this issue from ERA Skin & Laser Clinic. Turn to page 28 for their ﬁrst instalment. Until next month, enjoy reading...

Love Emma x E: info@look-localmagazine.co.uk W: www.look-localmagazine.co.uk For Advertising contact 07707 386034. /LookLocalMagazine

/LookLocalMag

BOOKING DEADLINE for May 2019 issue:

Friday 12th April

7,100 copies of Look Local Magazine are printed on a monthly basis and delivered to households in, Aston Rowant, Bledlow Ridge, Chalgrove, Chinnor, Crowell, Cuxham, Great Haseley, Great Milton, Henton, Kingston Blount, Kingston Stert, Lewknor, Little Milton, Milton Common, Postcombe, Sydenham, Tetsworth, Towersey and Watlington. In addition, the magazine can also be picked up from businesses in these areas and also Thame & Wheatley.

All material appearing in this publication is reproduced as supplied. Although every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers/printers cannot accept responsibility for the content of this publication. All artwork is accepted on the understanding that the description of goods and services are fair and accurate and permission has been given for use in this publication. Inclusion of advertisements does not imply endorsement by the publisher or printer. No part of this publication may be reproduced.

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Front cover image: Victoria Timms, Brill Photography | www.brillphotography.co.uk | www.facebook.com/victoriatimmsphotos

Spring has sprung and although still slightly on the nippy side, the evenings are lighter, the weathers brighter and we can all start to look forward to a lovely Easter break later this month.

April 2019

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In the spotlight... Volvo V60 Cross Country Review

MOTORING

arwriteups The SUV craze is as strong as ever, and that’s a good thing for automakers like Volvo. The company makes lots of them – but it’s also aware that these trendy vehicles aren’t for everyone. Thank goodness then for the Cross Country cars Volvo makes. These elevated versions of regular estates have been selling for more than two decades. Some would say they look better than SUVs. Not that that’s hard.

he normal V60 was ushered in last year, and it’s the newest kid on the block to get the ‘Cross Country’ makeover. Turning the ordinary V60 into the V60 Cross Country consists of the vehicle being jacked-up by 60mm, along with all-wheel-drive, comfier suspension, an off-road mode, hill-descent control and chunky external plastic cladding being added. The model also comes with a whole bunch of safety equipment. This encompasses driver alert with lane keeping aid and city brake with steering support. You get sat-nav, too. Alas, because the Cross Country is the ‘tough’ model, the options catalogue isn’t particularly substantial; there’s no higher-level ‘Pro’ variant, either. As an indication of the V60 Cross Country’s hardy appeal, the stock upholstery, for example, is a fabric and vinyl blend. So, this fresh car isn’t that different from any other Cross Country labelled Volvo before it. It wears its tough-look cloak well and houses a decent 1969cc, four-cylinder 190ps diesel turbo under the bonnet. Like it’s bigger brother, the V90 Cross Country, diesel seems to be the way to go for a hardcore estate. It delivers 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds and tops out at 130mph, which is more than enough for UK roads. Traction on and off the black stuff is impressive, too. The new model can scramble up and over tough terrain, and on the road, it glides effortlessly over pothole peppered surfaces. My only gripe is with the steering because, while its leisurely reactions are okay in the regular V60, it’s unsettling in the Cross Country variant. Because it sits a little higher, when you point it into a bend there’s a fleeting sense of no precision. If the Swedish automaker could add some more substance to the steering, it would finish off what is, all things considered, a relaxing estate car to drive.

In every other respect, this model is the same as the V60. The interior is immaculately assembled, with a striking design and quality-feel materials. Furthermore, the driving position is spot-on, topped oﬀ with Volvo’s legendary supportive seats. Then, in the rear, there’s more than enough leg and headroom for at least two adults. Another plus point is that the V60 Cross Country’s all-wheel-drive system doesn’t aﬀect boot space. Cargo capacity is 529 litres with the back seats in position, or a whopping 1,441 litres with them collapsed. The car also features many practical touches, like the fold-away luggage divider in the boot.

PRO’s & CON’s Comfort

Practicality

Grip

Steering

FAST FACTS (V60 Cross

Country D4 AWD automatic - as tested) Max speed: 130mph 0-62 mph: 8.2 secs Combined mpg: 42.8 - 47.9 WLTP Combined (l/100km) Engine: 1969cc, four-cylinder diesel turbo Max. power (PS): 190 CO2: 18” alloy 135g/km; 19” and 20” alloy 143g/km Price: £38,270

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April 2019

CASTLE MOTORS Motoring made easy. Family run business, established in 1980

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Home & Garden

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Home & Garden

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Home & Garden

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GET THE LOOK Questions you may forget to ask when choosing your stone worktop....

You’re

updating your kitchen. You’ve spent weeks contemplating cupboard colours, deliberating design details and have decided to go for a natural stone or quartz worktop – they’re a resilient, stylish focal point to any busy kitchen. Most of us don’t have much experience choosing worktops and there can be a lot to think about. You’re working with a stone mason or kitchen fitter and have decided on a stone, but what about those little details that can make all the difference. We’ve thought about those final questions you should ask before you give your worktop the go ahead. WHERE WILL THE JOINS BE? – If your project requires more than one length of stone – which is highly likely in a kitchen – check where your stone mason/fitter plans on creating the joins. Maybe they planned to put them either side of your sink but you’d prefer them to be hidden around the hob where there’s less light. WHAT SURFACE FINISHES DOES THIS STONE COME IN? - Not many people know that granites and marbles, and all other natural stones, as well as man-made stones don’t just come with highly polished, shiny surfaces. There are often options for matte finishes or varying degrees of flame brushed for a more rustic look. WHERE DOES THE STONE COME FROM? – Finding out the origin of your stone means you not only get to show-off about how exotic your worktop is, but it can also be an indication of quality. For example, a charcoal veined white marble from Italy will be far better quality than one from China.

HOW SHOULD I CARE FOR MY STONE? – Diﬀerent natural stones have diﬀerent care needs, and these

needs fit in to different lifestyles – some stones need more attention than others. For example granites are very durable, so wiping them down with an everyday kitchen spray is fine, whereas marble is more sensitive - avoid bleaches and hard chemicals. Also some stones expose marks and crumbs more than others. These details are useful to know when deciding which stone will slot in to your lifestyle best.

To discuss your stone project, visit our showroom on Wycombe Road, Stokenchurch.

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Home & Garden

Hardy Plant Specialists

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Home & Garden

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Home & Garden

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Wheatley Farm Shop

Welcome

to our farm shop where we stock

• Wild Bird Feed • Pet Food – brands include Burns, Natures Way, Chudleys • Heygates Farm Animal Feed • Animal Care including Hay, Straw, Wood Shavings for Horses, Rabbits, Guinea Pigs

Get ready for Spring with our: • New stock of Shrubs and Italian Plants • Garden Sundries & Seeds • Lawn Care Products • Large stock of Erin and Growise Compost/John Innes – Multi purpose 3x 50ltr for £12.00

Large selection of Home Grown Perennials ready to plant NOW! Beautify your garden this Spring!

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Ceramic Pots - New Range available

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Whi l Stoc st ks Last

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COME AN

NEWS & EVENTS in our region

A new ERA of Skincare comes to Thame town centre... Nestled just off the High Street at 98A High Street in one of Thame’s quaint, traditional buildings resides ERA Skin and Laser Clinic, a specialist practice headed up by Emma Rothery, an Aesthetic Laser Practitioner, and her team, offering cost effective body and rejuvenation treatments. Having undergone a full makeover, the beautifully refurbished building now comprises of 3 bright and airy treatment rooms dedicated to the following aesthetic procedures; - An LPA approved Laser Room – offering permanent laser hair removal, thread vein and age spot removal. We use 3 different types of laser including the Diode which removes hair quickly and painlessly. - A Cryolipolisis Room – offering fat freezing and body sculpting

- A Facial Aesthetics Room – offering dermal fillers, anti-wrinkle injections, radiofrequency, microdermabrasion, non-surgical face and neck lifting and Hydrafacial® The clinic also has 3 additional rooms available to hire by the hour or day for other therapists which includes use of the reception. There is plenty of onsite parking, along with free client WIFI and refreshments. Gift vouchers available. You can find Era Skin and Laser Clinic on Facebook or visit www.eraclinics.co.uk for further information.

Chalgrove Village Festival 6th May – 11am – Recreation Ground

lenty of attractions for all the family; this is the largest FREE festival in the county! We look forward to seeing you there. 10K Run - one of Oxfordshire’s most scenic courses with an undulating 10K single lap race through local villages and the surrounding countryside. Boot Camp Challenge - Are you ready to take on the Boot Camp? With 26 metres of inﬂatable fun! Enter your team for the Village Challenge. Jay Kumar & Dance Asia – as seen on TV – the fabulously talented dancers perform Bollywood routines – it’s even more fun if you join in! Panoramic Helicopter Flights – see Chalgrove from the skies as you have never seen it before - book early via the website to avoid missing

out. Fun Dog Show - The famous Chalgrove Fun Dog Show! Enter your best friend into a range of categories - Prizes to be won! Wayne Wonder - ready to keep both children and grown-ups wanting more! Wheatley Birds of Prey - once again, you have the chance to get up close to some of the most beautiful raptors in the UK. Local Stalls - We have a wide range of stalls exhibiting at the Chalgrove Village Festival, from all walks of life - some to sell, some to inform, and some to attract new members. Plus Live Music, Beer & Cider Tent - Food Court - Classic Car Show – Working Forge – Fencing Bouts - Steam Engines - Gin Palace – Fun Fair – WI Teas – Cash Prize Raﬄe Further information can be found online: www.chalgrovefestival.co.uk

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News & Events

The superb Dung Beatles to headline this years Music in the Park... Music in the Park returns to Elms Park, Thame, on Sunday 5th May.

et your dancing shoes ready! Featuring more than 30 performers across three stages, Music in the Park offers music and dance acts across a wide range of genres. Topping the bill on the main stage are the popular Dung Beatles. If you love Beatles music played the way the Fab Four intended, then The Dung Beatles are for you. According to Terry Bloxham of The British Beatles Fan Club, “The Dung Beatles are pure unadulterated fun - definitely not your average Beatles tribute band”. In 2014 they performed at Liverpool’s world famous “Cavern Club”. Recently they performed to a full house at The Waterside Theatre Aylesbury, along with pop legends John Otway, Howard Jones and Marillion, in support of the Friars Club tribute to David Bowie and the unveiling of his statue in Market Square. With such a wide variety of music and dance on offer, there’s sure to be something for everyone. The event will feature two main stages with live music and dance, and an acoustic stage. Have fun dancing the day away or chill out with a leisurely picnic. Of course, there will also be all the usual goodies you’d expect at a festival, including tasty real ales, a wide variety of delicious foods, fun activities for children and adults, and a range of trade stalls.

The 2019 Beacon Prize for poetry, open for entries... The timing is now just right for entries to our prestigious poetry competition for the Beacon Prize 2019. This is an exciting part of the 2019 Beacon Festival which takes place over the weekend of 21/22nd June.

he Beacon Prize for Poetry, which is promoted by Beacon Festival Literary Area and run by FOWL (Friends Of Watlington Library), will be judged by Mark Haddon, prize-winning author of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night”. Entry is open to writers of any experience - or none - in three age categories: adult, 12-18 years and under 12. The subject this year is “Stars”. The winning entries will be announced at the Festival and the winning poet in each category will be awarded a book token and Beacon Prize 2019 certiﬁcate. Additionally, all entrants will automatically be entered into a draw with the winner receiving a pair of Beacon Festival Weekend tickets (worth £45 each!) at least two weeks before the festival. If you would like to enter, please send your type-written poem of up to 40 lines to beacon.prize2019@gmail.com by Saturday 11 May. Alternatively, drop it into the Watlington Library clearly marked “Beacon Prize”. Further details, including terms and conditions, can be found at www.beaconfestival.net. “Watlington is teeming with talent of all sorts and we would love to showcase yours!”

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April 2019

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Local Event

Another great day out for all the family! One of Oxfordshire’s largest volunteer organised events, this year the Abingdon Air and Country Show will mark its 20th Anniversary on Sunday 5th May at Dalton Barracks, just off the A415 between Abingdon and Marcham.

hilst we are very proud of achieving this landmark we must not forget a date far more worthy of commemoration, the 75th Anniversary of D-Day and we hope to be able to mark that day almost 75 years ago with one or two aircraft in the flying display. We have all the usual ground attractions including music and dance, falconry, vintage vehicles and children’s attractions from fun fair rides to magic shows, re-enactment groups, trade stalls, craft marquee, food and drink, and once again, we have a number of exciting new additions including the Wallingford Dog Agility Team and Axceler-8 Hovercraft rides. We also welcome the return of many of our popular attractions including Team Green Rockets Children’s Motorcycle Team, the Mangledwurzels, Radio Days Big Band and Doctor Who’s Daleks and helicopter rides. In the air Classic Jets once again start the flying display with their highly technical model aircraft. The Beech 18 and Yak 3 return as do the AeroSuperBatics Wing Walkers. Also returning is Rich Goodwin in his Muscle Pitts repeating his 2018 race with a car! The very slow Antonov AN2, the world’s biggest bi-plane’, will drop The Renegades Parachute Display Team. This year we have a number of ‘teams’ in the display including a Gazelle Pair, the Fireflies Display Team, the Aerosparx Team, an Extra 300 ‘Little and Large’ Duo plus the HAAF (Historic Army Aircraft Flight) with their ‘four-ship’ of Beaver, Auster Sioux and Scout. As a tribute to those that were involved on June 6th 1944,

we have three iconic aircraft that flew on that momentous day and helped the beginning of the liberation of France, a Spitfire from the BBMF plus two from the USA, a P51 Mustang “Miss Helen” and a P47 Thunderbolt “Nellie”. We await participation from the RAF but we hope to have a Tucano in the flying display and a Hercules C130 on static. Tickets will be available on the day but reduced price advance tickets are available both online and from various outlets in an around Oxfordshire, for details of these and other up-to-date information please visit our website: www.abingdonairandcountry.co.uk We hope you will have another great day with us!

See you there! 2019 Sponsors

There’s still chance to enter our competition to WIN TICKETS to this years show. Visit www.look-localmagazine.co.uk to enter. Click ‘competitions’ tab.

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Sound of Music

elcome to our April 2019 Sound of Music feature. Here you will ﬁnd information on local musical events, upcoming concerts and where to ﬁnd the best music tuition in the area.

Thame has a variety of fantastic opportunities for budding musicians who wish to join together with other like-minded people. From bands to choirs to bell ringing! We also host a huge variety of annual musical events. Sunfest – Ickford’s Own Music Festival! This year The Rising Sun pub in Ickford along with Simon Markland from Thame Music Academy is proud to announce that Sunfest 2019 will be taking place on Saturday 29th June. Now in it’s third year this fantastic family friendly mini music festival has grown from strength to strength and is a fantastic day out for everyone! The main event takes place in the fantastic large beer garden at the rear of the pub with a marquee for live performances, a sheltered area for children and adults to get out of the sun, an array of play equipment and playground and a fantastic selection of food and drink available at the outside bar! Entry to the festival is free. This year the live music will be kicking oﬀ from 12:30 pm with a whole host of wonderful performances from local acoustic

guitarists/singers/duos taking us all the way to 7 pm. During the evening there will be two bands performing late into the evening! Updates and further info can be found via the ‘Sunfest’ Facebook page and The Rising Sun Ickford’s website. If you would like further information please contact The Rising Sun, Ickford via: Tel: 01844 339238 Web: www.risingsunickford.co.uk Facebook: Search ‘Sunfest Ickford’ Towersey Bell Ringers St. Catherine’s Towersey is a member of the Oxfordshire Diocesan Guild of Bellringers, South Oxon Branch. They are one of only a handful of 4 bell towers in the UK. The group currently practise every Wednesday evening and meet in the tower at 7:30pm. This is open to anyone would like to come along and see what church bell ringing is about and there is often the chance to have a go yourself if you would like! This is a very friendly local group and everyone is welcome. You may be surprised to know that there is a lot more to Church Bell Ringing than just pulling a rope.

Entertainment Full circle ringing is a skill that takes on average 8-12 hours of tuition to grasp but months of practice to perfect and learning to ring the bell is only the 1st step. Once you can control the bell this opens up the whole new world of Change Ringing! Village Voices Towersey Village Voices is a community singing group. They sing songs from many genres from all over the world including; traditional, folk, pop, ballads, gospel, jazz and blues. They practise the songs using ‘listening and copying’ techniques, simple rounds and chants to glorious harmony singing! Sarah Westcott, the music director, also leads ‘Sounds Fun!’ community choir in Oxford and believes everyone can sing. All are welcome to join and the choir has singers of all ages and both male and female, though they could do with some more men! They have been running since 2009 and do perform at local events including; Towersey Festival, Towersey Fete and Christmas events in Oxford and Chinnor. If you are interested in joining this fantastic local group they meet every Wednesday evening at Towersey Memorial Hall between 7:30 – 9:30 pm. The charge is £5 per week, £1 for students, and your ﬁrst visit is free! The choir does take some breaks over the summer, Christmas, New Year and Easter. For further information please contact the group via: Email: Villagevoices.towersey@gmail.com Web: www.villagevoicestowersey.com

o you love live music?

centre of Thame will be hosts regular live music every 1st or 2nd Saturday of the month, search ‘James Figg Thame’ via Facebook for further information. ‘The Listening Room – Upstairs At The Keys’ The Listening Room Upstairs at the Keys is on the third Friday of each month and will feature two artists in an intimate acoustic setting. Entry is FREE. ‘The First Thursday Music Club’ Takes place on the ﬁrst Thursday of every month at The James Figg pub, Thame. Come along early to this popular monthly event to book into a slot or just to enjoy the wonderful live music on oﬀer! Check out their Facebook page for further info. The event runs from 8 pm – 11 pm.. ‘Friday At The Fish’ Takes place every 2nd Friday of the month at The Old Fisherman, Shabbington. Check out their Facebook page for more info or just come along to play! The event runs from 7:30pm – 11pm. ‘Sunday Afternoon at the Swan’ – This friendly and relaxed open mic is run by Brian Taylor every 4th Sunday of the month at The Swan Hotel in Thame from 4:00 – 8:00pm. This is a brilliant opportunity for a relaxed musical Sunday afternoon and everyone is welcome to perform! There is also the opportunity to sing some karaoke! For further information please search ‘Sunday Afternoon at The Swan’ via Facebook. Brought to you by Thame Music Academy Tel: 07743 032292 Email: info@thamemusicacademy.com Web page: www.thamemusicacademy.com

Thame oﬀers some wonderful open mic events every month, these include: The James Figgs – This lively pub in the

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April 2019 Mary Davies Accounting Accounting / Bookkeeping Sole Traders / Partnerships Making Tax Digital for Vat Self Assessment CONTACT 07865 066621 marydaviesaccounting@mail.com

The hidden dangers of MINI EGGS... First For Safety are an Oxfordshire based safety group providing aﬀordable First Aid Training courses to parents. All members of the company are Emergency Service trained and this Easter, Director, Drew Kamphuis is reminding parents to supervise their children whilst eating Mini Eggs as the chocolate fuelled weekend approaches. The chocolate product is not suitable for children under four years-old, and Drew has recommended that parents always supervise their children aged up to 10 years old who eat them. She also advises that all parents be up to speed with what to do if a choking incident were to occur. Below are some useful tips: •

If you can see the object, try to remove it. Don’t poke blindly or repeatedly with your ﬁngers. You could make things worse by pushing the object further in and making it harder to remove.

•

If your child’s coughing loudly, encourage them to carry on coughing to bring up what they’re choking on and don’t leave them.

•

If your child’s coughing isn’t eﬀective (it’s silent or they can’t breathe in properly), shout for help immediately and decide whether they’re still conscious.

•

If your child’s still conscious, but they’re either not coughing or their coughing isn’t eﬀective, use back blows followed by chest thrust if not eﬀective.

•

If the blockage doesn’t come out after trying back blows and either chest or abdominal thrusts call 999. Keep trying this cycle until help arrives.

Contact First For Safety via the website: www.ﬁrstforsafetyoxfordshire.co.uk

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Health & Wellbeing

THE SEASONS OF CHANGE how the seasons can affect our health

Andy Roscoe, Acupuncturist and Director at Thame Therapy Clinic, offers an Acupuncture perspective on the changes accompanying the onset of Spring. Although the timings of our seasons are no longer reliable, we can all feel the signs that Spring is on the way, and by the time this article is published the daffodils may well be gone and signs of summer may even be around! After the dark days of Winter, Spring is the beginning of renewed growth, of new plans, of lighter mornings and evenings – what’s not to like?! Well, for some, the feelings of optimism in the air are soon replaced by a rush of energy that creates a kind of giddy mayhem. Tired minds and bodies are flooded with a relentless imperative to get going. Tired energy now gets spread even more thinly. Muscles and joints start to ache. Eyes get red and watery and we start to sneeze. Noses run and throats seize up. Voices get louder and minds get more restless. Soon we don’t know if we are coming or going. Some might start to think, “what’s the point… I can’t be bothered.” It needn’t be like this. As Acupuncturists we try and help people find a more sustainable and balanced life that allows a smoother transition from one season to another. Many of my clients have acupuncture on a monthly basis or seasonal basis. They come even if they are relatively well as they understand the benefit of aligning themselves with changes in the natural world. Life still goes pear-shaped even when we nurture ourselves, but we are more likely to get back into balance if we take care of our minds and bodies in a holistic way. For more information on this subject contact Acupuncturist and Clinic Director Andy Roscoe on 01844 215555 Web: www.thametherapyclinic.co.uk | Email: Andy@thametherapyclinic.co.uk

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BACK PAIN: How to Speed up your recovery... Rarely a week goes by without a mention of ‘coping with lower back pain’ in the press or on the television. Often your GP is unable to help. This is when Bowen / NST treatments may be the way forward!

n accordance with the NICE guidelines (January 2019) your GP will follow medical pathway protocols and will advise on soft tissue therapy, exercise programmes, to resume normal activities, return to work, use of anti inflammatory medications and if necessary psychological support. Scans, injections, opioid medication, traction, corsets, acupuncture and surgery are not recommended, unless symptom presentation indicates the need for further investigation of underlying conditions. Therefore the case for the majority of Back Pain patients is ‘YOU WILL GET BETTER’! But what if you don’t... As is the case with many of my clients, they come to be when they’re at a loss as to what to do to get better. I want to share with you a case study of a recent client of mine who was in this very predictament. Mr A. came to see me at the end of 2018, presenting with a 3 week history of acute low back pain (BP), restricted range of movement and with life ‘on hold’. She was accompanied to my clinic, having been driven lying flat in the back of a car. She was experiencing stomach problems aggravated by the pain, and was unable to tolerate GP prescribed meds. Mrs A. had no confidence to exercise and was unable to fulfil work commitments. Bowen / NST treatment started after a full history and consultation. I was confident that Mrs A. would respond to treatment over time and advised 3 sessions at a weekly interval with a review at each stage. Mrs A. was driven to her 2nd appointment, but sitting; On consultation and assessment I observed a noticeable difference in posture and improved range of movement. A decrease in pain was reported. She drove herself to her 3rd appointment, significant progress had been made and during these 3 weeks she did not need pain meds and had resumed all normal work and lifestyle activities. A month later Mrs A. came back to clinic as her back was ‘niggling’ and her knee was painful (the result of a past knee injury). During this treatment and a further session a week later Mrs A. became increasingly concerned that the BP issue would reoccur. Mrs A was anxious, she had been in so much pain previously so needed reassurance to move confidently and to exercise. This we achieved and during follow up consultations we talked about the presenting issues, mood and lifestyle commitments and I listened to a description of pain patterns and physical restrictions. I was confident that Mrs A was responding well to this treatment and our agreement was that she would get in touch whenever she felt the need for a further appointment. A quote from Mrs A. after her most recent treatment, “My leg felt a lot better on the way home, after a blip during the night my leg has continued to improve and is much better. Many Thanks”

If this story resonates with you and you would like further information about Bowen Therapy, please contact me: Jen Webster Bowen | Advanced NST practitioner (BSc MBTPA CNHC reg) E: info@jenwebsterbowen.com | W: www.jenwebsterbowen.com T: 07768 188664

Bowen Therapy is not a substitute for medical advice and treatment.

CASE STUDY: Mrs A.

Learning to Meditate by Sophie Lacey, of Linden Tree Meditation™

Personal Care Services We are a group of qualiﬁed, caring, experienced personal assistants who provide personal and unique care services to our clients at home in the community . We are registered with Social Services and provide reasonably priced tailored care services from 7:00am to 9:00pm daily, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year. We can provide you with useful information to help you put a Care Service in place for a family member if you need advice or support just contact us for a chat. We work in and around Chalgrove, the Milton’s Watlington, Chinnor, Thame and surrounding villages. We provide a valuable service to younger adults with learning diﬃculties/mental health support or older people with physical/mental disabilities. We have a wealth of experience provide support services for young and old to live a happy and productive life. For more information on the services we provide, please contact Julia:

01865 400227 or 07769 331492

Welcome to the second of my articles about learning to meditate. This month, I will be talking about the role of a meditation teacher and what you can expect to cover on one of my 5-week beginners’ courses. A meditation teacher should try to ensure that their teaching tackles any concerns that their students individual may have, as well as being enjoyable and effective. Most people come to meditation with some preconceptions, if not direct experience, so in my courses we spend some time talking about what meditation is, setting intentions, dealing with posture and answering questions. I encourage plenty of reflective discussion, always mindful that meditation is a discipline and everyone’s experience is different. I am a registered teacher with the British School of Meditation which means that my students can have confidence in my knowledge of the theory and practice of meditation, backed up by a strict code of ethics and practice, insurance and professional development. On my beginners’ course, we cover a range of techniques from traditions all over the world. We start each week with a breath-based meditation, foundational in most practices and at the centre of Buddhist-inspired western mindfulness meditation. You will learn how to be fully aware of your own sensations, thoughts and emotions. We then move on to some form of single point focus or ‘aid to meditation’. This might be something like candle gazing, affirmation cards, or mantras/chanting. Many beginners find these techniques particularly useful as a complement to breath-focus, when learning to anchor the wandering mind! We finish each class with a longer meditation such as a guided visualisation, a gratitude or ‘loving kindness’ meditation, or a deep relaxation. I use my additional experience as a writer to transport you: you might be taken into a tranquil rose garden, invited to sit overlooking the sea on a moonlit beach, or asked to engage all your senses in the orangescented courtyard of a riad in Morocco! ‘LIKE’ Linden Tree Meditation on Facebook, for further information about April/May Courses, Outdoor Meditations and Workshops/Events.

www.lindentreemeditation.com 07982 756609

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DO YOU DREAM OF LIVING A HAIR-FREE LIFE?

No more shaving, waxing or plucking!

Laser Hair Removal could be the answer. In this article, Emma Rothery, owner of Thame’s newest business, ERA Skin & Laser Clinic explains more about this popular treatment. What is it and How does it work? Laser hair removal is a cosmetic procedure that uses a concentrated beam of light (laser) to remove unwanted hair. The laser emits a light that is absorbed by the pigment in the hair. The light energy is converted to heat, which aﬀects the hair follicles that produce hairs. This stops or delays future hair growth. Hair grows in three phases, so to ensure all hair is targeted multiple treatments are always required. The lasers are quick, painless and able to treat all skin types.

Am I Suitable for laser hair removal? We can treat all skin tones and most hair colours because we use advanced lasers. Common treatment locations include legs, underarms, upper lip, chin and the bikini line. However, it’s possible to treat unwanted hair in nearly any area. Risks of side eﬀects vary depending on your skin type, hair colour, treatment plan and adherence to pre-treatment and posttreatment care. The most common side eﬀects of laser hair removal include skin irritation and pigment changes which are usually temporary.

What happens next? You will need to book a patch test consultation with our laser therapist prior to treatment so we can assess your skin and hair type. During the consultation we will take your medical history and details of any past hair removal procedures. We will also discuss the risks, beneﬁts and expectations If you’re happy to go ahead, we will agree a treatment plan and take before-and-after photographs for assessment and review at your future treatment sessions. Treatment costs start at £69.00.

** SPECIAL OFFER** Buy one area get one free*

Quote code LL195 when booking. *cheapest area is free. Treatments must be booked and started by 30th April 2019.

For further information or to book a patch test, Call the clinic on: 01844 698441 Book online at: www.eraclinics.co.uk Visit us at: 98A High St, Thame OX9 3EH

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A Flawsome recipe: Chocolate Protein Muﬃns. By Jemma Stevens of Flawsome Jem

I want to share one of my favourite healthy recipes with you all this month. These muﬃns are really easy to make, loaded with protein and make the perfect snack, and don’t be put oﬀ by the beans…

Ingredients: 5 eggs 1 can of organic kidney beans 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda 4 tablespoons of hemp seed oil (I like to use Good Hemp) 2 tablespoons of maple syrup 1 ½ scoop of protein powder (I like to use Good Hemp) 2 table spoon of cacao powder For toppings (optional, I like to use): cacao nibs, hemp hearts, desiccated coconut.

Method: 1. Pre heat oven to 200C 2. Chuck everything into blender, blend until smooth 3. Pour batter (will be quite runny) into 12 cupcake cases 4. Top with chosen topping

www.shapers-chinnor.co.uk

Hair & Beauty

01844 353838

Nails | Hair Make-Up | Tanning Beauty Treatments | Massage | Homeopathy Reﬂexology & more. Gift Vouchers Available.

Opening Hours

Mon: Closed Tues - Thurs: 9:00am - 7:30pm Fri: 9:00am - 7:00pm Sat: 9.00am - 1.00pm

Vouchers also available. Robert House, 19 Station Road, Chinnor, OX39 4PU

5. Bake for 15- 20mins, until start to peel away from the cases 6. Allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from cases I make these muffins most weeks, as part of my food prep, they are so tasty and keep really well. They can also be frozen, but ensure they are fully defrosted before eating. They can also enjoyed with a spoonful of Greek Yoghurt and some fruit. Or pop a strawberry inside before cooking. This is one of my many recipes that contains Hemp, which I fully advocate. Hemp is an incredibly nutritious protein and fat source. It can be purchased in most supermarkets as well as in Health Food Shops. Want to know more about Hemp, reach out to me: E: jem@flawsomejem.com W: www.flawsomejem.com Instagram & Facebook: @Flawsomejem

Thame Therapy Clinic High Quality Complementary Health Therapies from Experienced Practitioners

Therapies include • Physiotherapy • Reﬂexology • Osteopathy • Homeopathy • Acupuncture • Holistic Massage • Counselling • Naturopathic Nutritional Therapy and more... 01844 215555 / 261592 23 Upper High Street, Thame, OX9 3EX

www.thametherapyclinic.co.uk

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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOUR CHILD’S HEARING Our ability to hear is an essential part of understanding the world around us and it is critical for the development of a child’s speech. Even a minor hearing problem in a young child may affect their language, development, confidence and education. Hearing problems may not always be obvious though and a child’s ability to hear may appear to vary with their environment. Here are some signs to look out for if you suspect your child has a hearing loss: Difficulty in understanding Speaking more loudly or quietly Asking you to repeat what you are saying Turning the TV or music up very loud Easily distracted when people are talking to them. Unexplained tiredness and/or irritability in babies, early signs include not being startled by loud noises, being unable to hear different pitches and tones or not recognising a parent’s voice. Ear infections are more common in children and young babies and can cause temporary hearing loss. A doctor should be consulted if symptoms do not settle in a couple of days. They often follow a cold and the child may rub or pull at an ear, may cry more or be more irritable, have difficulty feeding and sleeping, and may have a cough.

Glue Ear should be monitored and not ignored, especially if it occurs during your child’s crucial speech and language development stages. Speak to your doctor or local hearing professional for advice. Sometimes a hearing loss can be due to a build-up of ear wax and this must be professionally removed. NEVER attempt to remove ear wax from your child’s ear yourself as inserting anything into the ear can cause permanent damage. Cotton buds may seem to be designed for the task but these only serve to push the ear wax further into the ear canal. Try to protect your child’s hearing wherever possible, especially with contact sports and in loud environments, and get their hearing regularly tested. Do not hesitate to seek help if you suspect a problem with your child’s hearing or ear health. Aston Hearing offer a child-friendly, age appropriate hearing screening service at all three of their practices. Call, email or check out the website below for more information.

Glue Ear is a condition that can affect us at any age but seems to occur more in children than in adults. It is when the middle part of the ear fills up with fluid, blocking the Eustachian tube. It can cause earache, pain and even tinnitus. Princes Risborough 01494 733845

Amersham 01494 733840

WWW.ASTONHEARING.CO.UK HEAR@ASTONHEARING.CO.UK

Thame 01844 396057

THE SWAN AT TETSWORTH

01844 281777 High Street, Tetsworth, Oxon, OX9 7AB

Voted the BEST ANTIQUES CENTRE in the UK

ANTIQUES & INTERIORS TWO DAY SALE

To include the trade stock and private collection of Wayne Robbins postcards, a specialist in AR Quinton, English and Foreign topographical, over 200,000 cards, FURNITURE, JEWELLERY, PAINTINGS including old masters, CERAMICS, SILVER AND MORE....

SALE DAYS: Thursday 4th & Friday 5th April at 12 noon Viewing:

No appointment necessary, just turn up!

Sunday 31st March: 10:30 am - 17:30 pm Tuesday 2nd April: 10:30am - 17:30pm Wednesday 3rd April: 10:30am - 17:30pm Thursday 4th April: 10:30am - 17:30pm

The Antiques Centre is open 7 days a weeks 10:00am - 6:00pm

For any enquiries, contact the team via email fineart@theswan.co.uk or call 01844 281777

Web: www.theswan.co.uk | Facebook: theswanattetsworth | Twitter: SwanAtTetsworth | Instagram: theswanattetsworth