l Supporting the South Devon green economy - doing well by doing good l www.reconnectonline.co.uk
DEC/JAN 2013/14 ISSUE 28
the green living magazine for Exeter, Plymouth and South Devon
Presents of mind
Dreaming of a green Christmas
FREE please take one and pass it on
A room of one's own
Shire Houses and shepherds’ huts
S ' N O S A E ! S S G N I T E E R G
Living on a little land What do you do on yours?
Keeping it local
Gifts right up your street ALSO INSIDE : Meditation
An outside chance
Get out and play in the weather!
l BIG Wellbeing section l Going out diary l Local energy
Explore the new Reconnect archive www.reconnectonline.co.uk... local people local events local foodat local health local environment HOLISTIC MEDICINE EXPERIENCED PRACTITIONERS WIDE RANGE OF TREATMENTS PROFESSIONAL TRAINING THE PRACTITIONERS:
Exeter Natural Health Centre Holistic healthcare in the heart of the city
MO MORRISH RSHom Homoeopathic medicine www.thehomoeopathicpractice.co.uk MO MORRISH INDEPENDENT FUNERAL CELEBRANT Authentic Ceremonies www.authenticceremonies.co.uk
Here at ENHC we offer a wide range of complementary therapies provided by experienced and highly professional practitioners. The centre, which has been established for over 10 years, is also renowned for its excellence in training courses. Conveniently situated in the city centre, we have full reception cover and beautiful spacious treatment rooms for therapists to hire or, for bigger workshops, courses and classes, we have a well appointed large training room.
ANNA PARIS Ac.M.MBAC Traditional acupuncture, Toyohari 5 element & Manaka styles. email: amparis1@btinternet.com
Please call for more details.
SUSAN QUAYLE Maternity reflexologist, fertility, ante natal, labour, post natal & baby, aromatherapy, massage Tel: 01626 862469
LISA TATE Remedial, pregnancy and therapeutic massage, Myofascial release. www.lisatatetherapies.co.uk KATHERINE UKLEJA DO RCST Craniosacral therapy www.katherineukleja.co.uk LESLEY HARPER Nutritional Therapy www.lesleyharper.co.uk
KARIN AND PATRICIA Pregnancy yoga & active birth www.birthwise.net SAMANTHA GODDARD Reiki Rascals & The Reiki Institute. Training and sessions in Reiki, Baby Massage, Baby Yoga & Stress Management. www.reikirascals.com GEOFF GREEN Energy healing and Person-Centred Counselling www.innerknowing.co.uk
THE SOUTH WEST COLLEGE OF HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICINE
(Formerly known as the British School of Homoeopathy) Winners of the 2013 Teaching Innovation Award Low cost student clinic available Come and learn dynamic, patient-centred homoeopathy with our award-winning team! Call 01392 422555 & visit www.southwestcollegeofhomeopathy.co.uk
SCHOOL OF BODYWORK Professional Massage Training. All diploma courses APNT accredited.
Fantastic range of CPD workshops available www.schoolofbodywork.com info@schoolofbodywork.com 07711 656 011
01392 422555 Centre Manager: Ali Morrish
RUTH BAKER BSC HONS PSYCHOLOGY, MA, Dip SW, Adv Dip Couns, Psychotherapist, Counsellor, Coach, Facilitator & Supervisor. http://ruthbakerpsychotherapy.co.uk
The Devon School of Reflexology Training in Professionalism and Excellence. Spring & Autumn courses 2014. For more details: www.devonreflexology.com Email: devonreflexology@hotmail.com
Exeter Natural Health Centre, Queens Walk, 83/84 Queen Street, Exeter, EX4 3RP e: info@enhc.org w: www.enhc.org
Find out more about us on facebook and follow us on twitter @ExeterNaturalHC 2
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Inside this issue
COMMERCIAL EDITOR ADVERTISEMENT SALES adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk Pete Hardy 01395 270157 2 Withall’s Gardens Lympstone EX8 5JH
How to advertise... THE DEADLINE The deadline for the February/March issue is Friday, January 3 - but call us now and let’s get the ball rolling! The issue will feature our big annual local festival preview. THE RATES 1/8-page - £93; 1/4-page - £148; 1/2-page £313; full page £522.
PAY MONTHLY Book six issues and you can pay monthly by direct debit - and you still get a 10% discount). A 1/8page advertisement is just £41.85 a month; a 1/4-page is £66.60 a month; a 1/2-page is £140.85 a month; and a full page is £234.90 a month. AD DESIGN Just call and we’ll help with words (free of charge) and design (for between £10-£50). EDITORIAL Get the FULL message across in a FREE editorial written by our professional journalists. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS See page 42 for details. Call Pete or Martin NOW!
Welcome...
Organic gardening 11 Time for Winter fruit planting Seasonal eating 13 Add some spice for variety Local energy 14-16 Renewables - and happiness
New brewery page 5
Local energy Q&A 17 More answers from the SWEC Living on a Little Land 20-21 Visit local land projects with us Picture perfect 22 Phil Hemsley’s view of South Hams Ethical investments 23 So it DOES grow on trees Going out diary 24-25 Grab your coat, we’re going out Eco homes and building 26-29 Huts, loos, Hobbits and upcycling
Compost loo winnerspage 27
WELLBEING SECTION 30-40 Natural health news and views Living on less... 41 Martin on meditation Workshops and courses Check out the small ads
l Supporting the South Devon green economy - doing well by doing good l www.reconnectonline.co.uk
THE DISCOUNTS Book three issues, get 10% off. Pay for five, get one free.
Magazine
Local produce 8-10 A new farm in the centre of Exeter
Brought to you by... EDITOR editor@reconnectonline.co.uk Martin Foster 01803 868455 45 Punchards Down, Follaton Totnes TQ9 5FD
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DEC/JAN 2013/14 ISSUE 28
the green living magazine for Exeter, Plymouth and South Devon
Presents of mind
Dreaming of a green Christmas
FREE plEasE takE onE and pass it on
A room of one's own
Shire Houses and shepherds’ huts
SON'S SEA INGS! ET E GR
Living on a little land What do you do on yours?
Keeping it local
Gifts right up your street ALSO INSIDE : Meditation
An outside chance
Get out and play in the weather!
l BIG Wellbeing section l Events diary l Local energy
The small print PUBLISHED BY Reconnect Publishing, 2 Withall’s Gardens, Lympstone, EX8 5JH PRINTED BY Kingfisher Print, Wills Rd, Totnes www.kingfisherprint.co.uk WEBSITE Visit our website at www. reconnectonline.co.uk. And visit our Facebook page at www.facebook. com/reconnectmagazine
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Cover images
Shepherds’ huts page 26
Anti-clockwise from the main pic: Wrag Wrap (see page 4); Shire House Pod (page 28); Plymouth Barbican (page 24); School Farm CSA (page 21) and Phil Hemsley’s Meadowsfoot Beach (page 22)
to the December/January issue of Reconnect. And we’d like to start with every good wish for a happy Christmas, Hanukkah, Winter Solstice, Yule and any other festival we collectively celebrate at this time of year - and also for whatever you wish yourself in 2014. We would also like, as we do every year, to urge you to support local businsses when you get stuck into your big spending binge (you will, we all will). For Reconnect, it’s new year and a new regular feature, with the arrival on page 20 of Living on a Little Land. Over the coming months we will visit all manner of land priojects around the area, from allotments to farms, but with a strong emphasis on commuity involvement. As with the rest of the magazine, it will only work if you get involved, so do please email editor@ reconnectonline.co.uk if you are involved in a project you think will interest Reconnect readers. Give us a big shout too if you have events for our diary pages - they go on the website too so it’s great free publicity for arts, crafts, and community happenings. Festive hugs to you all!
Down in the woods page 20
ECO ETHOS Reconnect is written, designed, printed and distributed locally, using materials from sustainable sources. It is printed using vegetable-based inks and biodegradable fount solution. The paper is 75 per cent post-consumer waste and 25 per cent virgin fibre (from a sustainable source), chlorine-free and FSCaccredited (www.fsc-uk.org). All by-products of the production and printing processes are recycled. Please recycle this magazine by passing it on to someone else after you’ve read it
Martin
COPYRIGHT © Reconnect Publishing. All rights reserved. No part of Reconnect can be reproduced in any form without permission of the publisher. But do ask – if you’re genuinely spreading the word, we’ll try to help. The publishers, editor and authors accept no responsibility in respect of any products, goods or services advertised or referred to in this issue, or any errors, omissions, mis-statements or mistakes in any advertisements or references
green fuse funeral directors Good Funeral Guide Joint Funeral Directors of the Year 2012 “Green Fuse are relaxed and unstuffy - ideal at a sensitive time. Their knowledge and suggestions gave confidence that nothing would be overlooked. They were open to our wishes and transparent with costs. We were delighted with the funeral for our mother.” Matthew Cushen. For cremation or burial, individual and traditional funerals. Totnes (7 High Street), Buckfastleigh (18 Dart Mills) and Moretonhampstead (Unitarian Chapel) or call us on 01803 840779 (24/7)
funerals with heart and soul www.reconnectonline.co.uk
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Have you got news for us? A piece of haven CAN you really miss a gig that’s billed as “guaranteed to blow your socks off with sheer audacity and musical excellence”? The Acoustic Haven, in Totnes on Friday, January 31, features The Adventurists, who draw together some of the best musicians in the country into a “make-shift moment of a group”. Also on the bill are Sam&Henry who “create sublimely beautiful music - a kind of South-West folk Americana that touches the heart and lifts the mind.” All that plus a café/bar serving organic soup, homemade cakes and locally (just over the road) brewed ale. St John’s church doors open 6.30pm. Tickets are £10 on the door and £8 in advance at Harlequin Bookshop and from www. wegottickets.com - raising funds for local ancient woodland www. thehillyfield.co.uk.
Enjoy Craft Days CALLING all crafters. Do you have an unfinished craft project? Would you like to start a new project or meet like-minded people? If so, the Tuckers Arms at Dalwood near Honiton is hosting Craft Days on the last Friday of each month, 10.30am-3.30pm, starting on January 31 2014. The idea is for a group to share, help and encourage each other on a range of craft projects. Bring along an unfinished project or start a new one. There is no charge but those interested are asked to book in by calling Trudi on 07810 411311.
Five for Soundart SOUNDART Radio (102.5FM), the community radio station based in Dartington, has had its licence extended another five years, keeping local broadcasters on the air until at least 2019. The station celebrates diversity and has an ethos of creative freedom. More in the Feb/Mar Reconnect. In the meantime, visit www. soundartradio.org.uk.
Alice Carfrae - just one of the many storytellers appearing at the Winter Festival.
2014 festival season starts here THE next (February/March) issue of Reconnect will include our unique annual local festival preview, but the season actually starts with the Winter Festival on February 1. As well as storytelling for all ages, the festival at South Devon Steiner School will also include music, talks, poetry, procession, giant puppets, Christmas tree bonfire, shadow puppetry, other puppets, film, forging, crafts, workshops, ceremony, sanctuary and delicious organic food from the Chai café - and there will also be dance (workshops as well as performance)! Reconnect will be there too, so do stop by for a chat (and pick up the freshly published February/March issue). Sue Charman, who runs the festival
with Sam Wernham, said: “We are thrilled that both Carolyn Hillier and Shonaleigh will make their first Winter Festival appearances at the 2014 event. Sam said: “The last festival in 2012 raised enough money for the Wood Sisters to build a Red Tent as a community resource and we hope this time to raise enough money to decorate and furnish the inside with seats, cushions, a wood burner, rugs and hangings.” The Festival falls in National Storytelling Week and on the seasonal celebration of Imbolc and Candlemas. Early Bird tickets are £25 for adults, £10 for children through Eventbrite until December 31. Visit www. woodsisterswinterfestival.co.uk.
It’s all wrapped up - again and again WRAPPING paper is one of the subjects we return to in every Christmas issue of Reconnect. It’s estimated that around 50,000 trees give their lives to make the 8,250 tonnes of wrapping paper that are consumed each Christmas (much of which ends up in landfill), so we do our bit to urge you to do yours by: using recycled paper; keeping the paper to re-use; using old posters or pages from magazines; or at least by recycling the paper you rip off during the annual unwrapping frenzy. But here’s something different that ticks so many eco boxes you’ll run out of ink. Wrag Wrap, as the brilliant name implies, is gift wrapping made from fabric and comes both in sheet form and as ready-made bags suitable for small gifts or bottles, and one that’s stretchy to accommodate trickier shapes. Obviously that means it’s reusable, so you can either make it part of the pressie for the recipient to re-use (you might even get it back yourself), or you can ask for it back and use it again yourself. The material itself already includes a large recycled element. Wrag Wraps are made from 45% RPET (recycled plastic bottles) and 55% polyester, and
the plan is to move towards 100% recycled content when supply becomes more widespread. Meanwhile, Wrag Wrap is always looking for new materials. Co-founder Nicky Rajska said: “One new line we’re introducing is made from tents left behind at music festivals. We got permission from the organisers and collected tents from five of the big festivals in 2013, including Glastonbury and Reading.
“We’re also talking to a hot air balloon manufacturer – commercial balloon operators have to replace the fabric regularly and it would be a perfect base material for Wrag Wrap.” Wrag Wrap is also a local company. Nicky and co-founder Louise Oldridge are based in South Devon and Wrag Wrap is available at Riverford shops in Yelverton, Totnes sand Yealmpton and online at www.wragwrap.com.
Japanese art exhibition and workshop LONDON-based artist Talia Lehavi is exhibiting her three main collections in Yume Martin’s gallery in Ashburton until January 25. Having spent a long time in Japan mastering the arts of brush painting and watercolours, Lehavi creates uniquely textured paintings and layered monotype. Butterfly Dream is a series of work which uses the contour line of a Buddha head filled with Chinese paper-cuts (a traditional pastime for Chinese poor.) Talia says she wanted to create something beautiful for her daughter “to inspire her to dwell on the nature of truth and beauty.” Buddha Realm is a series of portraits inspired by iconic sculptures of Buddha, including Thousand
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Arms Boddhisatva in Kyoto and the Angkor Buddha sculpture from the Guimet museum collection, Paris. And her Japanese ink paintings, Tears of Becoming, stem from her love of ancient Tao and Japanese ink painting and calligraphy. Talia will also be running a workshop in Japanese ink painting at the gallery, 10am-4pm on Saturday, January 25. The cost is £110 including materials, with an optional traditional Bento lunch for £5. Yume’s gallery, at 26a North Street, also includes a studio and shop space, exhibiting other carefully selected designer makers including ceramics, illustrated poetry books, artisan handbags and handmade cards. Visit www.yumemartin.co.uk.
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WONDERFUL WOOLEN GIFTS
ALL BRITISH-MADE, FAIRTRADE OR RECYCLED.
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New Lion’s founders (left to right) Paul Hawksworth, Ann Munroe, Rob Hopkins, Rob Alexander.
www.macroschool.co.uk
Brewery revives tradition in town A GROUP of beer-loving Totnesians is reviving what was once one of the town’s largest businesses. The Lion Brewery, which made “the celebrated Totnes Stout”, once occupied a large section of South Street and owned many pubs in and around Totnes. The original company closed in 1921, but now it’s back, as a ground-breaking craft brewery using innovative brewing and helping to drive the economic regeneration of Totnes. The brewery is running a membership scheme, which will offer free beer tastings and other privileges - not least of which will be a first-in-line chance to buy shares when they go on sale within the next few years. Head brewer Mat Henney, who was second brewer at Dartmoor Ale before joining New Lion, said: “I’m thrilled to be part of shaping and developing this new enterprise and building a membership of people who love beer.” The landlord of Totnes pub Bay
Horse, Rob Alexander, one of the brewery’s founders, will be offering its beers on a regular basis (with a discount for members) at the pub. He has high hopes for the brewery’s success. “We recently put on a cask of their beer and sold the whole thing in one night,” he said. “The Bay Horse has always sought innovative and delicious beers,” he adds, “so helping to found a brewery is a natural next step.” The New Lion Brewery certainly aims to be profitable, but equally important to the founders is that it “operates for the benefit of the community”. It will offer apprenticeship opportunities and, working with the Dame Hannah Rogers Trust at Seale Hayne, work experience for people with learning difficulties. It will also produce limited-edition runs of beer to raise funds for new local enterprises and local charities and will use local ingredients and work with other local businesses “to the greatest extent possible”.
Kids make natural connection DESPITE scientific evidence (not to mention commonsense) proving that children benefit enormously from spending time in natural environments, surveys still continue to show that many are losing, or never really made, the connection. The Natural Connections Demonstration Project has been set up in a bid to correct the balance. Funded by DEFRA, Natural England and English Heritage, and recently contracted to Plymouth University, Natural Connections is one of the largest outdoor learning projects in the UK and aims to significantly increase the number of school-aged children “experiencing the full range of benefits that come from learning in natural environments.” The project’s Ian Blackwell explained: “The Project is working
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in five areas of relatively high deprivation - Plymouth, Torbay, Cornwall, North Somerset and Bristol - and around 40 schools are directly involved in each area. “The project will also work with hundreds of local volunteers to help communities build capacity in their school, while enabling the school to engage the skills and expertise available in the local community.” The project works with school staff and looks at how the natural environment helps with “curriculum delivery, learning and school priorities.” Said Ian: “We are not focusing on learning about the natural environment but IN the natural environment.” Find out more and sign up to the newsletter, at naturalconnections@ plymouth.ac.uk.
Shiatsu Discovery weekend Next course: 1 & 2 March Learn to give a simple full body shiatsu for friends and family These weekends are great to reconnect with yourself. Come on your own or with your partner. Buckyette Farm,Totnes TQ9 6ND Tel 01803 762598 Email: info@macroschool.co.uk
Price: £120 (includes wholefood lunch and full course notes)
The Contemporar y College of Homeopathy
Homeopathy
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Getting others better
•Free open days •A four year part-time practitioner training Weekend introductory courses • The four year course is ideal for those A one year foundation course • either looking for a vocation, or those
in homeopathic medicine •A free clinic for patients (either GP referred or independent bookings)
considering changing their existing one. The course runs ten weekends a year with directed home study
Courses run at Engineers House, Clifton, Bristol For more information please phone Kate on 01275 877083 or visit www.conhom.com The College is accredited by the Society of Homeopaths and all major homeopathic organisations
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Have you got news for us? Tony’s illness inspires creation of Chinese herbal drinks FOR over 18 years Tony Taylor was a successful handbag and backpack designer with his work taking him regularly to the Far East. It was in this time he began to show interest in natural health and the healing ability of Chinese herbs along with chi kung and yoga. But his life in the West changed dramatically and over just three weeks his father died suddenly, their 35-year-old business began to fail and he was diagnosed with cancer of the large intestine. As part of his recovery, alongside conventional medicine, Tony used many natural and complementary healing techniques to support his healing process. He discovered the easiest and most effective way to improve health and vitality was to decrease sugary and caffeinated drinks and replace them with Chinese herbal and alkalising drinks. After taking drinks containing Jing herbs he said he felt nourished, revitalised, alert, calm and stronger.
Said Tony: “I was amazed at how good I felt, how much more energy I had and how much clearer I was.” Not finding any similar products back in the UK, Tony set about making the drinks for himself. “Once I’d discovered the perfect recipes and sourced the best ingredients, I shared them with friends and family. More and more people tried them and the feedback was incredible.” Tony went on to create New Earth Drinks and his products now also include ionised water machines, pure Shilijit, alfalfa juice and several healthy sweeteners to use with his drinks. Said Tony: “Our dream is to show people that everyday drinks, like tea and coffee, that we drink often and out of habit, can be easily replaced by incredible drinks that heal and nourish. We wish to show people how to significantly improve their health and wellbeing by creating a ‘tonic bar’ in their homes.” Tony with his range of Chinese herbal Call 01803 605494 or visit www.newearthdrinks.com. health drinks in Thrive cafe, Totnes.
City drummers raise morale among survivors of nuclear disaster in Japan
Craft show full of unusual gift ideas YOU can always be sure of seeing high quality crafts at the Devon Guild of Craftsmen centre in Bovey Tracey and their Christmas exhibition is the perfect place to find unusual gifts. This year’s “selling exhibition” is called Make and features objects handcrafted by 50 of the best designermakers in the UK, says the Guild. All the exhibits are for sale (with prices starting at £12) and can be taken away on the day of purchase. They include ethically-produced satchels by local designer Amy Whybrow (aka Hawthorn & Co); top textiles, like Deryn Relph’s 100% lambswool waterbottle covers, and fabulous glassware. There are also graphic prints from artists such as Ruth Green, whose brightly decorative animal screenprints have featured in Elle Decoration, and interior accessories from the functional (like Lucy Burley’s wheel-thrown earthenware vessels in coloured glazes) to the ornamental - see Myer Halliday’s patterned ceramics. Look out too for Emma Calvert’s hand-woven ribbon and silver jewellery. There’s also a DIY activity space for kids in the gallery, where they can create their own cards and decorations, and festive home-baked goodies at The Terrace café. The gallery is open 10am-5.30pm, seven days a week, until January 5. Visit www.crafts.org.uk.
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DRUMMERS with a Devon-based Taiko Group have been helping to raise morale for people living in the wake of the Fukushima nuclear disaster more than two years after the earthquake and tsunami. Twelve members of the Kagemusha Taiko Group have just returned from a week-long tour of Japan. They gave several performances and workshops in Fukushima as well as two concerts north in Sendai. Hosted by the Nippon Taiko Foundation, Kagemusha Taiko performed in a special concert for people rendered homeless in Fukushima Prefecture by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Many people are still living in temporary accommodation, unable to return to their homes either because they were washed away or because they are in the exclusion zone around the nuclear power plant. The concert was part of an ongoing programme of events designed to help raise morale. The fact that foreigners were prepared to travel to Fukushima was seen as a positive, and Ms Yasuko Naruse of the Nippon Taiko Foundation,
reported that feedback from the concert had been excellent. Letters of support were sent by the Lord Mayor of Exeter and the Mayor of Newton Abbot. Taiko is sometimes called ‘Japanese drumming’, and the presence of a British taiko group in Japan was said to be a source of delight to Japanese people. Kagemusha Taiko also performed at Mano Elementary and Soma High School in Fukushima. At the first of these, Kagemusha Taiko ran a workshop for the students instructed by Oliver Kirby and others in what is regarded as a Japanese performing art. Kagemusha Taiko were given a tour of areas devastated by the tsunami, and were presented
with badges worn by local people saying “never give up”, and gifts of “tumbling monks” – figurines designed so that they right themselves when they are knocked over. The group were also given Geiger counters which registered small but harmless increases in radiation at various points on the tour. A small earthquake in Fukushima on the night of October 11 helped to bring home the reality of the situation there. The members of Kagemusha Taiko Group funded their own travel to Japan.
Local promoter stages top pair YOU might know her from producing this Summer’s Quest and Seed Festivals, or from helping out at the Westcountry Storytelling Festival at Embercombe the previous year, or perhaps even from Dartington – Victoria Whelan, or Joyaa as she is known to many, is putting on the world’s most wellknown spiritual music act in Bath this June. Deva Premal and Miten sell out concerts across the world with music transcending all boundaries, even receiving accolades from luminaries such as author Eckhart Tolle, who calls their music “pure magic.” In recent years, the practice of chanting Sanskrit mantras, once virtually unknown in the West, has followed yoga into the mainstream, with huge audiences at concerts and yoga festivals embracing chant as an effortless path to ease the heart and quieten the mind. Deva Premal and Miten with be joined on stage by Nepalese bansuri flute maestro Manose at Bath Pavilion on Saturday, June 7 from 7pm. To find out more, get details of buses running from Devon and to buy tickets (£25-40), visit www.seedidea.net.
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Deva Premal and Miten
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HOLISTIC FOREX TRAINING, MENTORING AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success” Albert Schweitzer
Local financial markets trader Andy Greening is looking to mentor a small number of people Over the next two years I am looking to build a team of traders who understand that a holistic approach to trading can lead to abundance in all areas of your life. I offer individual training, small group courses and an intensive partner program together with
on-going mentoring and support. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a struggling trader, a battle–weary free workshop attendee or a complete novice. The Tranquil Trader is all about long-term, authentic relationships between like-minded individuals.
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Local, seasonal and organic...
Local produce
Keep it local at Christmas CHRISTMAS brings out the consumer in us all. Gifts, feasting, booze... You might make some yourself, you may have grown and stored your own veg, you could even be a home-brewer. But come the week before Christmas, or a little earlier if you’re really organised, you will be out there with the rest of us Christmas shopping. But what if you decided this year to do all, or more, of your shopping locally - in your village, or your nearest town, or the famers’ market? The arguments for shopping locally really stack up. One pound spent in the community stays in the community, going on to be spent in five or six other local businesses and benefitting the local economy by £6 or £7. Spend it in a national or international chain, which buys much of its stock overseas, and most of it will go overseas. Or into the pockets of the shareholders. Smaller independent shops and markets offer more choice too - real choice, not just different packaging. And if you shop in farmers’
markets or craft markets, you are often buying from the people who produced it, so you can ask them all sorts of questions. Local produce makes great presents too - even the person who has everything will never complain when they receive a basket of local cheeses, or a few bottles of local fruit juice or wine. The whole shopping experience is different too. You’ll meet friends, see shopkeepers you recognise (and who recognise you) and if you go along to one of the many local Christmas markets or late-night shopping events, you’ll often find entertainment too - and some amazing festive street food. Most of us value our village stores, our local high street and the local producers whose businesses provide jobs and enrich our lives. But (and we make no apologies for the cliche) we really will lose them if we don’t use them. Please support the independent specialist stores in Reconnect and tell them where you saw their advertisements! Thank you.
A stunning place to eat!
The Growing Devon’s Schools team at Embercombe.
Set like a jewel in the heart of The English Riviera, away from the hustle and bustle of the town centre is One World Cafe & Bistro. A licensed Cafe with great coffee, award winning gardens and the perfect destination for drinks, dining and live music with an emphasis on honest, home-cooked food, a fantastic range of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes. An independent, family friendly destination for something different in the Bay.
www.oneworldcafe.org.uk Abbey Park, Belgrave Road, Torquay, TQ2 5HP
Telephone: 01803 297797
Email: oneworldcafe.torquay@gmail.com
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Pupils learn complete food cycle A DEVON schools project aims to encourage children to make connections between the different stages of the food cycle as a handson outdoor experience. In October 2012 a group of teachers and organisations that deliver all kinds of different learning experiences in schools came together to explore how they could all work together more effectively and the Growing Devon’s Schools Partnership started to take shape. Founder member Nicky Scott explained: “Our driving vision has been to connect up all the parts of the food cycle. We want to see children not only eating wholesome food in their schools alongside their teachers in a pleasant environment, but also involved in all aspects of food, from procurement, sourcing locally and ethically, to creating and utilising the available space to grow fruit, vegetables, herbs and flowers.
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“We also want every school to audit its waste and make compost from all their food waste to use back in the school gardens. “There are so many opportunities to use these experiences in the curriculum as well as gaining skills for life.” Growing Devon’s Schools Partnership has received a grant from Growing Schools (www. growingschools.org.uk) which they have used to set up a training programme based around making and cultivating school gardens. “And we have two teachers from 10 schools taking part at two training centres: Embercombe, near Exeter and Diggin’ It, in Plymouth. We will also be working in all the participating schools helping them set up, or develop their own outdoor spaces and also their composting systems.” Visit www.growingdevonschools.org.
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edit
or@reconnectonline. co.uk local people local events local food local health local environment Eric Jon (left) and Adam Sayner of Fungi Futures.
Now open 8.30am daily for delicious organic breakfast menu with Organic Coffee & Croissant continental special @ £3. We specialise in super healthy food, gluten, wheat, dairy and sugar free, created by Nils, our nutritionally trained chef, with stunningly good cakes, salads and a lunch to thrive for ! Offering a comprehensive range of premium organic health foods & high grade nutritional supplements.
City farm’s cafe culture NEXT time you’re enjoying a breather when shopping in Exeter, take a look up at the offices high above the street – somewhere up there is a new breed of urban farm. And as you sip your skinny latte you are doing your bit to make it happen. Fungi Futures is the brainchild of mushroom farmers Adam Sayner and Eric Jong who, in partnership with Exeter Community Initiatives (ECI), have created Exeter Urban Farm, growing mushrooms on used coffee in unused office space in Exeter’s Sidwell Street. Adam says: “With so much coffee-waste generated in a city centre it’s a perfect match. “Mushrooms are normally grown on sawdust, which has to be sterilised – an expensive and energy-hungry process. But coffee is sterilised during the coffee-making process and stays sterile for 24 hours.” Eric adds: “A lot of energy goes into growing coffee, importing it, grinding it and then putting it through a machine - we are making that energy go further.” Once harvested, most mushrooms are transported across Europe and around the country in refrigerated trucks. But the fresh oyster mushrooms from Exeter Urban Farm will be served in city restaurants and for sale in city shops within hours of being picked. The next stage of the plan is to train
and create work for people who have been homeless or trapped in poverty, so Adam and Eric have set up a community interest company and are working with Matt Bell, chief executive of Exeter Community Initiatives, a charity that has been running projects in Exeter for the past 20 years. Said Matt: “Tackling long-term unemployment is an important part of the work we do and this is a perfect vehicle to train and skill up those in desperate need of help. “But at the same time it saves energy, reduces waste, provides food and has a low environmental cost. It’s just an all-round brilliant idea.” Fungi Futures is also giving foodies the chance to grow their own mushrooms using GroCycle kits, which are also being made at the Exeter farm. “They’re the perfect gift for ethical shoppers, foodies, gardeners, aspiring chefs, children – everyone loves watching things grow,” says Adam. “You just open the box, cut a hole in the bag, spray it with water each day and harvest your own gourmet oyster mushrooms around 14 days later.” Each kit costs £12 and is guaranteed to produce at least two harvests. Find out more, and order your kit, from their website, www.fungi-futures. co.uk. Postage is £4.50 for up to seven kits.
Thrive Cafe Organic Wine Bist opening Bar and Bistro early in 2014 offering special evening menus with live entertainment, weekly lms, talks and community events.
Thrive Cafe - The Totnes Health Oasis 47 Fore Street Totnes TQ9 5NJ 01803 840202
SackS wholefoods
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• Bulk and case discounts • Special orders catered for • Established in Totnes 35 years
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The Plains Shopping Centre Totnes TQ9 5DR shop@sackswholefoods.co.uk
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Local produce
Jane’s tips for enjoying feasting without suffering
THE season to be jolly is nigh, with food at the centre of the celebrations but how do we enjoy traditional treats without deprivation or New Year diets? According to nutritionist Jane Hutton, the secret lies in eating smarter. Being aware of the impact of what we’re eating and drinking is important, but a little indulgence balanced by exercise, and making the right food choices, will ensure a less guilt-ridden start to 2014. Jane, who runs Trinity Holistics and specialises in Nutritional Therapy, says some traditional Christmas foods are nutrient powerhouses, and won’t add inches along with their health benefits.
A traditional Christmas lunch is the crowning glory, and whether you choose turkey or beef, both are prime sources of the amino acids needed for good mood. A table laden with veg increases the nutrient-high, low calorie punch. Postprandial walks in crisp countryside not only provide the calorie-burning, but a dose of light to fight SAD. For the sweet-toothed, seasonal stalwarts like satsumas are easy snacks, piled in a Christmas-themed arrangement, but for many, chocolate and nuts are the ultimate temptation. Both are brimming with essential nutrients, especially organic high
CHRISTMAS HAMPERS & GIFTS at Guildhall Shopping Centre Market from 1st to 23rd December. Nitrate free Charcuterie and Gluten Free Sausages.
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cacao chocolate and walnuts, almonds and Brazils. In small quantities, they can support allround health and combine to make a luscious treat for our families or guests. For details of courses and workshops, call Jane on 07841 344 934, or visit www.trinityholistics.co.uk. And for Jane’s chocolate nut cookie recipe (flour, refined sugar and butterfree), email her at jane@trinityholistics. co.uk.
Same name for changing cafe THERE are exciting changes on the menu at the Thrive café in Totnes, but one vital ingredient is staying the same – the name. There had been plans to change the name to Oasis, but after we announced it in Reconnect, customers immediately started telling them they thought Thrive better captured what the café is all about. So Thrive it is, but now with a strapline, The Totnes Health Oasis, which seems to sum things up perfectly. As we go to press, one significant change is expected any day now. Once Thrive gets an alcohol licence, they plan to offer exclusively organic wines, beers
and ciders – and off sales. The plan then is to open a dinner party-style bistro on Friday and Saturday nights, plus speciality evenings, including a monthly macrobiotic evening with Oliver Cowmeadow, film nights and “social events to build a community hub.” Said proprietor Steve Hopwood: “We have established our lunch time menu and will be open very shortly for breakfast from 8.30am with a special organic coffee and croissant deal (£3) and fresh inhouse baked organic breads. “We will also offer backgammon sets for people to play and do tapas, falafel and deli platters.” Visit www.thrivecafe.co.uk.
Everything you need for Christmas...and the New Year! ORDER YOUR HAMS, TURKEYS & HAMPERS NOW Christmas orders now being taken. Christmas Hampers, off-the-peg and bespoke. Choose for yourself from our wonderful range of local, award winning produce, including organic vegetables, Fairtrade, wholefoods, groceries, bread, homebaking, dairy, fish, poultry and meats. Gifts galore made by local makers. Hot drinks and freshly cooked BBQ lunches most days. Call in today and take a look.
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Organic gardening
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COLD and wet outside, and shorter days - so is it time to put your feet up? No way, my muddy booted friends, there are still plenty of jobs to do in the garden. And if you do get rained off, get out the seed catalogues... ‘SO is this the time of the year when you put your feet up?’ friends and customers are always asking me as soon as the Winter gets here. In fact, I always seem to be just as busy, especially as the days are so short. There’s nothing nicer than a bright dry sunny day in the vegetable garden or on the allotment to take away the Winter blues. And what about that patch of earth you were meaning to get dug over back in the Autumn and never quite got around to it? This is the time to get stuck in, as long as the ground isn’t too wet (I know I’ve said it before but if the mud sticks to your boots, stay off the soil), and providing it’s not frozen. Other jobs that need doing are repairs to compost bins or cold frames and, of course, the greenhouse can always do with a wash inside and out. Try not to leave these things until the Spring when you want to start using them again. Maybe now is the time to redesign the veg plot and build some raised beds. It can transform the garden into a much easier space to work and, although the initial outlay can be expensive, I never met anyone who has regretted having them. Make sure your beds are no wider than four feet (120cm) so that you can easily reach the middle from
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Worth a packet... both sides and don’t make them so long (8-10ft is ideal) that you can’t be bothered to go around them and end up stepping across them. Of course, on the rainy days you could have a flick through all the seed companies’ catalogues or websites and plan what you’re going to grow this year. Why not try something new? There are always new varieties becoming available in organic seed - it’s not like years ago when you could literarily only get one type of cabbage, sprouts, tomato etc. Even if you’re not planning to sow your own seeds this year, and instead plan to buy vegetable plug plants (of which we believe we have the largest selection in the South West), it’s still nice to do a garden plan.
Winter fruit planting WINTER is the best time to purchase and plant fruit bushes such as currants, gooseberry and raspberry, but don’t forget to give them plenty of space. When planting, always imagine the plants’ final size and add enough room to get around it to pick all that lovely fruit. If you miss this planting opportunity, don’t worry you can always buy potted organic fruit bushes right throughout the year. We carry a good selection at our Growers Organics nursery at Yealmpton and on our market stall at Totnes market from early February until late October. On the subject of fruit, we had a fantastic strawberry crop again this year and January is a good time to tidy up the plants and if your bed is over five years old you will probably be better off replacing them with new stock. If you just want to increase the size of your strawberry bed, now is a great time to remove and pot up some of the larger more healthier strawberry runners (the smaller plants that grow from the parent plant). Place them in a cold greenhouse or cold frame and plant out in their final position nearer to Spring. Then cut the rest of the plants down to the ground so they come back stronger and more vigorous next year. Reconnect’s Organic Gardening column is written by Joa and Charlie Grower of Growers Organics. Meet them in person at Totnes market on Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www. growersorganics.com, or call 01752 881180.
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Trader finds a far more fulfilling life in Devon searching for. I’ve learnt WHEN foreign that the Pathway to exchange trader Freedom is not to make Andy Greening heard decent money then “get his three-year-old a life” but firstly to get a daughter introduce life which then enables him as “Daddy, you to tap into financial who lives in the city abundance. and comes home at weekends,” he “Whatever their goals, realised things had to I’d like to help people change. to find their path. More people are learning to Such a shocking but trade every day. Low honest introduction interest rates and rental was the start of his property hassles mean journey to find a more people are turning better way to live Andy Greening to trading. his life. Now living in Devon, it is a far cry from his previous “Forex trading is a viable option to high-pressure corporate role as a supplement an income, boost your foreign exchange (Forex) trader in nest egg or allow you to work for New Zealand. He is still trading yourself. It is a rare opportunity to Forex but now has a richer and more learn to trade one-on-one. fulfilling life. “I’m offering training tailored to Said Andy: “From senior your needs and paced to suit your management at a Swiss bank to chief schedule. No experience necessary, operating officer of New Zealand beginners welcome. Don’t worry if Superannuation Fund, I’ve had you don’t know anything about Forex. decades of experience managing It will all be explained simply and money and risk. But long hours, you’ll see how an holistic approach to stress and countless trips away from trading can provide your Pathway to home meant my lifestyle was not as Freedom.” enviable as some might think. See Andy’s website for more about “Introducing Foreign Exchange the learning pathways. www. Trading allows me to live the life I was thetranquiltrader.com.
Transition boost to green tourism TRANSITION Town Exmouth has brought local tourism businesses together for the first time to investigate just how sustainability could go hand in hand with good business. Derek Smithers, chair of Transition Town Exmouth, said: “It’s clear from this initial event that a green tourism industry would encourage tourists to value the town and its environment in a new way. “And it need not cost the earth - with some simple ‘house rules’ significant savings are possible.” Brian O’Brien, environment manager for Devon Cliffs Holiday Park, and Neil Warren from the Centre for Climate and Business Solutions, shared their first-hand experiences of green issues, and set the agenda for future developments with tourism businesses across Exmouth. Transition Town Exmouth aims to use its skills to bring everyone together – working with local authorities and community groups to strengthen the cause. Hoteliers, and others in the tourist
industry, are naturally concerned about their on-going, rising energy costs and Neil Warren from the Centre for Business and Climate Change offered local businesses 12 hours of free time to assess their current situation and give independent advice on how energy savings might be achieved. Brian O’Brien spoke about his experiences at Devon Cliffs Holiday Park - the largest caravan park in Europe, with 1,800 caravans. Their energy bill has been cut by £18,000 over a five-year period. Each caravan includes energy saving features and guests are invited to take green ideas home. Lessons in sustainability are part of kid’s club activities and a green team regularly checks appliances and lights are not left on unnecessarily. Anyone interested in joining a Green Tourism group to develop ideas further should contact Derek Smithers on dws42@outlook. For more information about Transition Town Exmouth, go to www. transitiontownexmouth.co.uk.
Free potluck meals for all the community LOOK out for regular Community Potluck meals (just take a plate of food to share), organised by Totnesbased charity Network of Wellbeing in the town’s Methodist Church Hall. NOW project manager Dr Larch Maxey explains: “Many people told
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us they wanted somewhere to go on a Friday or Saturday evening without having to spend any money or buy alcohol and which was relaxed, fun and open to all.” Check www.networkofwellbeing. org/events/ for dates.
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Seasonal eating
EATING with the seasons can sometimes leave you craving something a little different, admits Carol time to bring in the spice cadets...
Lynsey comes home to wool AFTER years of travelling the world, designing and buying jewellery, Lynsey Tiplady decided she wanted to sell products made closer to home or by Fair Trade producers.
Hot and healthy...
“A love of natural fibres, and wool in particular, led me to some lovely people making beautiful products,” says Lynsey, who lives in South Devon. Her business, Wild Wool, now sells super-warm alpaca socks made just down the road, throws made in her home county of Yorkshire, Fair Trade alpaca scarves discovered at the Devon County Show and sheepskins provided by a friend on Dartmoor. “I feel really excited to bring together some of the things I feel strongly about in life,” she says, “to be supporting local businesses, independent sellers, and fair trade global artisans. And all wrapped up and looking gorgeous in recycled packaging!” The business began in 2012 and blossomed in its first year, winning
Lynsey with one of her blankets, above, and top, three Fair Trade alpaca scarves. the best stall award at Bath Christmas Market. You can find Lynsey at the Innovation market in Exeter’s Guildhall from December 2-23 (and at Bath and Winchester Christmas markets too) and buy online at www. welovewildwool.com. “I hope the website will also link up those who want to help support the resurgence of wool,” says Lynsey. “I would love to hear from any local weavers, knitters or lovers of wool.”
Take steps to help Charlie IF you’re in Totnes on December 20 there’s a chance to try out Biodanza - the Dance of Life - and at the same time do some fundraising for a very worthy cause. A charity Biodanza event is being held at The Mansion Hall between 7-9pm in aid of a charity aiming to buy a horse trailer for an autistic man who wants to travel the country teaching horsemanship. Charlie, who is originally from Plymouth and is being supported by The Autism Directory, is using the Natural Horsemanship training methods of Silversand and Monty Roberts to train his young Irish Sport Horse called Spirit Of Summer’s Rain. Said Charlie: “I was the first Autistic adult in the world to be certified in the Horse Boy therapy methods, and I am a student of Monty Roberts and Kelly Marks. “To help me with this mission I am looking to get a trailer to take my horse Spirit around the country and help others and inspire them
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WELL, it’s ‘that’ time of year again…ho ho ho…good cheer and bonhomie. And it’s also the season of the cabbage. Lovely delicious, nutritious cabbage which I always think is great in December, mostly still tasty in January but possibly getting a bit monotonous by late winter. If we are committed to eating with the seasons one of the downsides can be the lack of variety over the winter. One way we can add variety is to delve into the wonderful world of spices. Not only are they little power packs of tastiness, spices are wonderfully good for us too. Being rich in antioxidants and having antiinflammatory properties too, making them a great way to boost your immune system this winter. Antioxidants are amazing, health promoting substances which protect the cells in our body from the damaging effects of pollution, smoke and processed foods. They are also, therefore, a great way to balance out the excesses of the season. Here is a run down of some great spices to use this winter. Turmeric: this versatile and bright yellow spice has reportedly amazing health benefits. I love it in a spicy noodle soup as well as just added to rice for the gorgeous colour. Cinnamon: traditionally used in baking this can also be added to porridge and smoothies to give an added twist. Cloves: these definitely have a Christmassy feel and are used in traditional bread sauce.
with my demonstrations in Natural Horsemanship and also to help horse owners with behavioural problems such as loading on & off trailers, and catching their horses in the field.” The charity dance is being run by Julia Hope Brightwell, known as Jewell, who specialises in Biodanza and has run classes in Totnes and Dartington. The pure dance form originated in South America. ‘Bio’ translates as ‘life’ and ‘danza’ translates as ‘dance’, so in English this means the ‘Dance of Life’. Biodanza is a series of dance/ movement exercises to music. There are no steps or routines to learn. Said Julia: “Biodanza promotes health and wellbeing, joy and relaxation, pleasure and contentment. We can strengthen our innate ability to feel pleasure and satisfaction and to develop our natural capacity to empathise with others and nature.” For information on the dance go to https://www.facebook.com/#!/ events/1426318240924844/?ref_ dashboard_filter=calendar
Nutmeg: this is delicious grated and sprinkled between layers of béchamel sauce and steamed cabbage. Cumin: this lovely spice, with its distinctive and strong flavour, can turn a bland dish into a Moroccan treat, perfect in couscous. Cardamom: this reminds me of milky chai tea. It is sweet, spicy, warm and aromatic and can be used in baking. Ginger: traditional in baking and great added to curries; ground ginger can be mixed with honey and heated to provide a sweet gingery glaze on steamed carrots. Cayenne pepper: this comes from the finest small red capsicum chilli peppers; use it to spice up hummus, guacamole, cottage cheese and even mashed potatoes. The gorgeous BBC recipe below will definitely be part of my Christmas dinner and one of the best bits is that any leftovers can be drizzled with a touch of olive oil making it perfect to have with cold meat and cheeses scrummy yum!
Sticky spiced red cabbage Ingredients; 1 tbsp olive oil,1 medium-size red cabbage, quartered, cored and shredded, 1 finger-size piece fresh root ginger, finely chopped, 2 onions, sliced, 1 tsp ground allspice,1 tbsp mustard seed,100g golden caster sugar,150ml red wine vinegar METHOD Heat oil in a large saucepan, add cabbage, ginger, onions, allspice and mustard seeds, then cook for five mins until just starting to wilt. Scatter on sugar and pour in vinegar. Cover pan, gently cook for 10 mins, then remove lid and turn up the heat to medium. Simmer the liquid in the cabbage for about 20 mins, stirring occasionally, then stir continuously for the last few mins until all the liquid has evaporated and becomes sticky on the bottom of the pan. Serve in large bowl. Reconnect’s Seasonal Eating is written by Carol Lee, who runs workshops and courses in nutrition, health and wellbeing. Call her on 01363 82794 or visit www.naturalfoodschool. co.uk . You can also join her on Facebook for seasonal tips, recipes and nutritional information www.facebook.com/ naturalfoodschool
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Power to the people...
Local energy THE renewable energy market continues to develop. Remember when we all used to call it ‘alternative’? Now it’s very much part of the mainstream - read on for the latest update...
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RURAL home and farm owners are facing a bleak Winter after being hit by more massive oil or LPG fuel bills. With prices double that of mains gas, many have found themselves in what the Government refer to as fuel poverty. In a bid to help these consumers dig themselves out of the fuel price spiral, the Government has introduced the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). The RHI scheme is intended to help people change over their boiler systems from expensive fossil fuels to Biomass heating, using wood pellets or chips. Chris Rudge, who runs Rudge Renewables in Exeter, explained that the scheme is available now starting with a £2,000 cash back voucher to help with the installation. In March the new installation will attract regular tariffs based on usage. Said Chris: “This is a similar scheme to the solar FiT scheme and is designed to pay for the whole installation over a seven year period.”
He explained that the new generation of pellet boilers were fully automatic and simply needed topping up. They would provide heating at half the cost of fossil fuels like oil or LPG. If your old oil boiler is in need of replacement soon, Rudge Renewables can provide costs and advice on changing your boiler and how the RHI can help you fund the change. Call on 01392 368724 or go to www.rudgerenewables.co.uk. l See also the Q&A on page 17.
Energy centre hosts business event THE new South West Energy Centre has held its first event - a two-day conference on energy, e-mobility and low carbon technologies. It was attended by 150 representatives from local, national and international businesses, who enjoyed a programme packed with presentations, seminars, workshops and tours. The event was co-hosted by South Devon College, which runs the Centre, in partnership with TÜV SÜD, one of the world’s leading technical service organisations. The first day of the conference was focused on energy and E-mobility (all-electric, hybrid and non-fossil fuel cars), and featured talks from
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TÜV SÜD, Siemens, RIDI, Worcester Bosch, SWMAS, Schneider, SWEC and Regen SW. Scantherm led a Thermal Imaging Workshop and there was the opportunity to tour the South West Energy Centre and Passivhaus as well. On the second day, the focus changed to Low Carbon Technologies, and the programme included TÜV SÜD again, Supacat, 5D Energy, South West and Enlighted. The last presentation was from the Eden Project who gave an overview of Energy Saving Activities at the Project. Visit www.southwestenergycentre. com.
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A full PV system might be beyond the pockets of most Christmas shoppers, but Beco have some other ideas - and a free gift for owners of electric vehicles.
Solar firm’s current advice for Christmas list savers SOLAR PV company Beco suggests that this year you give your loved ones, or yourself, a really useful present – a way to lower the fuel bills. “We don’t have much to offer the kids this Christmas,” admits Beco’s Hilary White, “but I’m sure mum and dad would love to look forward to saving money on the bills next year!” Beco’s first pressie suggestion is a full PV system. Yes, it would cost typically £3000-5000 for a domestic installation, but it will give you free energy – and an income from the Feed-In Tariff. Far more affordable are Beco’s off-grid systems, perfect for sheds,
boats and caravans. Beco can advise on any size of project and can provide and install the PV panels, charge controllers, cabling and batteries. If funds are more limited, what about some LED lightbulbs? Not a very exciting present, perhaps, but they will transform your electricity bill. “Change all your boring 60W lights for 3W LEDs and laugh at power bills,” suggests Hilary. And finally, a present from Beco to owners of electric vehicles – you can stop by at their charging point in Totnes and recharge your car or bike completely free of charge. Visit www. www.becouk.com.
Website reports biomass surge that was the focus HEAT pumps of most of the and biomass questions they boilers have asked. People are overtaken solar now more interested PV as the most in heat pumps and popular pages on biomass boilers with website YouGen visits to those pages as homeowners’ nearly doubling interest in since 2011. energy efficiency continues to “As the cost of space grow. and water heating makes up the With visitor greatest percentage numbers up of most people’s 43% year on energy bills, and year, YouGen, with the launch the energy info of the domestic website run renewable heat by SidmouthCathy Debenham incentive next year, based Cathy we expect interest to Debenham, had continue to grow. its millionth visit in October. “Now is a really good time to install “With four of the big six energy a renewable heating system. All companies raising their prices by an eligible installations will get the average of 9% again this year, it’s renewable heat incentive when it not surprising people are interested starts next year, and people who in taking measures that help them install before the end of March claw back control of their energy 2014 will get an upfront grant to bills,” says Cathy. help with the installation cost.” “Two years ago virtually all our Find out more at www.yougen. visitors were interested in generating co.uk. electricity with solar panels, and
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Local energy
Mukti Mitchell of CosyHome Company, creator of the Happiness Calculator.
So just how happy are you?
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WITH the coming of New Year many of us take stock of our lives and look at how we can make changes for the better. Questions arise around what we really want and what we need? We want to be warm and we need to be well, and this year with the reality of climate change on our own doorstep challenging this, we also need lifestyle choices that lower our carbon emissions. Ultimately perhaps what we all want is to be happier, but if an unusually wet and cold winter with increased extreme weather events is going to compromise our happiness, what can we do to stay warmer at home and reduce climate change, therefore making ourselves happier - both in the short and the long term? Mukti Mitchell of CosyHome Company is fascinated by what it is in life that brings us true contentment and his Happiness Calculator is a simple way of reflecting back to us what elements of our lives give us the most happiness.
“It allows the user to break down and self-evaluate the activities that make up a typical day,” explains Mukti. And to his surprise, he’s found that it consistently shows a correlation between low carbon activities and a high level of satisfaction. “So this year we can make New Year’s resolutions knowing that choices that makes us truly, deeply happier are the same ones that lower our carbon footprints,” said Mukti. “We can walk more, eat locally and seasonally, car-share, holiday by surface, buy quality long lasting products, and insulate our homes properly to keep out the cold, save money and cut carbon all at once.” To get your own copy of the Happiness Calculator, email Gwen de Groot at gwen@ cosyhomecompany.co.uk. Mukti has also devised a carbon calculator, which you can use online at www.resurgence.org/ education/carbon-calculator.html. Visit www.cosyhomecompany.co.uk.
Seeing the bigger picture THERE’S certainly no shortage of renewable energy companies out there right now: if you want a simple bolt-on heating system, there is a host of companies that can provide and install. But what if your requirements are less straightforward? What if you need to incorporate two different types of system, or if the limitations of an existing build (or the design possibilities of a new-build) are presenting real challenges? “It’s crucial you talk to a company with the technical knowledge, practical resources and creative imagination to be
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able to see the bigger picture,” says Patrick Seiflow of Eco Trades. “We work with: the individual preferences of the client and, where appropriate, their architects; the practical requirements of the building and site; and the options that would work within that project. “We can then come up with the perfect solution – and this being a less than perfect world, if there are budget limitations, we also have the flexibility to find a good workable alternative involving the least compromise.” Visit www.eco-trades.co.uk, call 01803 393530.
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Local energy Q&A Q
I’m thinking about installing underfloor heating in my new property. What would be the benefits over a traditional radiator system?
Q
A friend of mine has just received a payment under the Renewable Heat Premium Payment scheme. What is this and how do I qualify ?
A
The Renewable Heat The main benefit is a Premium Payment (RHPP) reduction in running costs. scheme is a precursor to A traditional twin radiator the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) sized 600mm x 1400mm will have scheme. RHI is a bit like the Feed in a heat delivery surface area of just Tariff product which can be used to under 3.5m2. This would heat a derive benefits from the generation typical room of around 35m3 at a of electricity from solar panels. surface temperature of 60 – 70ºC. RHI is related to the The floor area of our generation of heat from typical room is around low carbon sources 16m2 or about 4½ such as heat pumps or times bigger than the wood burning boilers. required radiator. Under the scheme, each Because an underfloor unit of heat generated heating system has a will be measured and a much larger surface payment will be made area than a traditional according to how much radiator it can run at heat is generated by the a lower temperature appliance. The property and still provide the must reach a minimum same heating effect. For energy rating of D. that reason, underfloor There has been some heating systems can be delay in the introduction up to around 30% more OUR expert for this of the RHI scheme for efficient. The heat is also issue is Greg Hopkins domestic customers so who has 30 years’ more evenly distributed the government has experience in electrothrough the room. The mechanical design and introduced the RHPP to system comprises a encourage installation number of heating pipes control environments. of such systems in the Greg was troubleconnected individually interim. The RHPP is a shooter at Nu-Heat in to a manifold. A major single payment which is Honiton before joining benefit of underfloor made in lieu of the RHI the South West Centre heating is the lack of and varies depending unsightly pipes and where he is assisting on the technology radiators which can in the delivery of Low installed. Currently gather dust and spoil the Carbon Technology the installation of a clean look of a room. Courses. biomass boiler would Underfloor heating attract a payment of systems should be designed to take £2000 under RHPP. When the RHI account of the floor structure and scheme goes live in 2014, the early covering. It is important all relevant payments claimed under RHI will factors are considered in the design go towards paying off the RHPP process and so it is essential a and after that amount is paid, the reputable company is used to design consumer is expected to benefit with a bespoke system that takes into direct payments. The installer and all account all the variables for individual equipment must be MCS-approved. parts of a dwelling.
A
How can we help you? REE Advice and support for community -F groups and businesses - FREE energy audits with expert staff - Funding sources and applications - Green Deal - how it can help you - Training courses and packages - bespoke and off the shelf - Research and development assistance - S tunning new state of the art Energy Centre and Passivhaus for demonstrations and testing new products and technologies - Available for letting
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IF you have a question for the experts at the
ASK THE EXPERTS South West Energy Centre, email it (with your
name and phone number) to patrick.mcnevin@southdevon.ac.uk. They will answer you personally and the pick of the questions will feature in Reconnect. Or call them on 01803 540725 for help and guidance.
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17
11/11/2013 16:24
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Steph Bradley at the launch with musician Christoffer de Graal
Steph’s tales of transition ONCE upon a storytime, there lived a storyteller, name of Steph Bradley, who did set out in a pair of old red flip flops to walk all about the land and meet and talk with the people touched by the magic of Transition, who have learnt that the art of changing the world begins by having fun with the people around you, right there where you live… And the great thing is the story came true and Steph walked 2000 miles around the UK (in red flip flops) and has now written and published the
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book, telling the stories of people in Transition groups, which was officially launched in Rattery village hall. Steph read from her limited edition hardback, Tales of our Times, local musician Christoffer de Graal played and the event was captured on video by Sophie Galleymore Bird. “Only 200 copies of the book have been made,” explained Steph. “And 13 copies of a first edition leather spined volume, with exquisite Dartmoor wool felt work made by local artist Geraldine Finnon and hand bound by Joanna Radford of Hannaford Press, were presented to those who helped me accomplish my dream of sharing the stories of the everyday heroes of our times.” A signed and numbered copy of Steph’s limited edition book will be raffled on December 17 in Totnes when another storytelling performance can be enjoyed by those who missed the last. Email Steph at transitiontales@googlemail.com for details. Tales of Our Times is for sale online at www.storyweaving.co.uk and will soon be available from local shops and libraries.
Playing safe with the dangerous Dads THE Dangerous Dads group in Totnes will be making Christmas wreaths at their December gathering. All dads/male carers with children aged five or under are welcome. Meet at the pirate ship on Steamer
Quay in Totnes at 1pm on Saturday December 15. There’s no need to book and payment is by donation. And there will be a Christmas drink in a child-friendly pub afterwards. Call organiser Ian Blackwell on 01803 840990 or 077317 95160.
Find a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life Yumé’s studio, shop and gallery showcasing her own work and the work of other carefully selected designer makers.
Career coaching, courses and events to set you free For details please ring 01392 811168 / 07977 272174 or visit www.happymondays.org.uk
26a North Street, Ashburton, Devon, TQ13 7QD www.yumemartin.co.uk . 07772005261
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Tell us all about it! Email us now... editor@reconnectonline.co.uk Explore Owl Trust and make a wreath THE Barn Owl Trust is offering the chance to find out about its work and make a Christmas wreath.
making workshop. A second workshop will be held in the evening at 7pm.
At 2pm on Thursday, December 12, they are organising a walk through the Lennon Legacy Project, a wildlife haven on the edge of Dartmoor, followed by a wreath
Mince pies, refreshments and materials will be provided with a £8 charge per person towards costs (Friends of BOT £5). Find out more at www.barnowltrust.org.uk.
Soft on you and the planet A NEW South Devon business is bringing together some of the most eco-friendly lingerie and nightwear from around the world – and they want your help. Lingerie Naturally sells online from its premises in Totnes. Business partner Julia Penhaligon-Todd said: “We want to offer a real alternative to the polyester offerings on the High Street – and for every woman, young and old, all shapes and sizes, at all stages of life. “We’d love to do that with entirely organic cotton and eco fabrics, but this is a very new sector of the market, so we also have silk and cotton clothes in our collection. “Both rank well on the sustainable textiles index and both are biodegradable - unlike polyester, which is made using a manufacturing process routed in petro-chemicals and containing multiple toxins, some of which have been linked to breast cancer for more than 20 years.” But it is a developing market and Lingerie Naturally would like women to join their campaign and share their knowledge. “If you know of new designers who are working ethically and sustainably, particularly in the UK, we’d love to hear about them,” said Julia. “Please email me at julia@lingerienaturally.com. We’re running a quarterly draw for people who share their ideas with us.” Julia says they want to promote ethical and Fair Trade when possible and a number of their designers are certified or accredited under different schemes, including Pants to Poverty, AIKYOU and Underprotection.
The embercombe
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MENTORING A former Apprentice under the watchful eye of one of our Master Craftsmen
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As well as being professional surfers and qualified electricians, former colleagues such as Rich Sills act in a mentoring capacity for the Embercombe Building Company Ltd. These individuals are all people who Phill Ireland helped to succeed, and give their time for free.
www.embercombebuild.co.uk PROJECT MANAGEMENT . DESIGN & BUILD . ENVIRONMENTAL BUILDING . RENOVATIONS . CONVERSIONS . BESPOKE TIMBER FRAME CONSTRUCTION
“Other items are just ethically made, often by hand,” says Julia, “including Beaujais and Sweetling from the UK.” Their collection includes all kinds of lingerie - everyday, maternity, mastectomy, bridal, sporty, yoga - plus nightwear and some pieces for children (nightwear) and men (underwear and dressing gowns). Said Julia: “There are eco trailblazers working in fashion around the world and we know there’s a big demand for their work – particularly here in the UK. It’s our mission to bring them together, working in the most sustainable way possible.” Find out more at www. lingerienaturally.com.
Dartmoor Centre CIC Counselling & Psychotherapy In Newton Abbot
Not for Profit - Community Interest
Begin all courses in January 2014 Advanced Diploma in Counselling The professional qualification for a new career. One day a week - Thursdays - school term time only – liberating and experential. Diploma Creative CBT an integrative course - profound cognitive skills with a compassion focused and mindful approach.
Rare business opportunity for good practitioners and therapists 100% Health, the national award-winning independent health food store, is opening its top floor Therapy Centre in Paignton. Five newly refurbished rooms are now available to rent at very low prices. Phone or email Heather for details
01803 414357 100percentheather@gmail.com www.reconnectonline.co.uk
Diploma Sandplay Therapy explore the alchemy of this deeply symbolic and transformational therapeutic process. Email : office@safespaceforcounselling.com or speak to Ken Rabone Director of Training tel 07862 224310 For details of all courses see the website www.safespaceforcounselling.com
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
19
Living on a little land WELCOME to the very first appearance of Reconnect’s new Living On A Little Land pages. Over the coming months we will be visiting allotments, small farms and everything in between - but with the emphasis on community involvement. Tell us what you do on your land email editor@reconnectonline.co.uk or call Martin on 01803 868455
Diseased trees make way for return to former glory Co-op celebrates with a bumper veg harvest MEMBERS of the Exeter Growers’ Cooperative have plenty to celebrate. Having marked their fifth birthday this year, they have harvested bumper crops of onions, potatoes and - in their polytunnel - plenty of tomatoes and beans. These are just a few of the crops grown by the group who rent and manage four acres of organic land on the SW edge of Exeter, near Shillingford. The Co-operative strives to promote understanding, enjoyment and sustainable use of the land, especially through food production. The group was relaunched in April 2013 and has managed to attract new members and a new impetus. In September an open day was held and, despite awful weather, visitors were able to see the work of the group and sample some of its produce. Jan Howe, the group’s chairman, said they were currently reviewing the season and making plans for next year. She added: “We are about to review the first six months of our new way of working and then we shall be planning the crops for next year.” Upcoming events include the monthly meeting on December 7 from 11am which is followed by a talk on orchard and willow maintenance. Early in January a wassail is to be organised as well as a review of hedge maintenance. Visit exetergrowerscooperative.wordpress. com or call 01392 274628 or 01392 660332 to find out more.
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IT’S been a tough time for British woodland over recent years. Just when the nation was truly appreciating the value of British woodland, for its practical (construction and crafts) uses as well as its recreational value, along came the killer diseases: first Dutch Elm and more recently Ash Dieback and Sudden Oak Death, technically called Phytophthora Ramorum but roughly translated as ‘Tree Killer’ which, even with the security measures in place, is wiping out Japanese Larch - and can affect over 150 different species. At The Hillyfield, the woodland farm on Dartmoor where Reconnect editor Martin Foster keeps poultry with the owner Doug King-Smith, Phytophthora Ramorum is making a difficult job even trickier. But, with ingenuity, creativity and the involvement of the community, there are healthy green shoots of opportunity growing through the tangled undergrowth. But enough metaphors – time for some Hillyfield history. The Hillyfield is designated Ancient Woodland, which means it has been woodland as far back as maps accurately go (about 400 years). Unfortunately, around 35 years ago most of the mixed oak and broadleaf woodland was felled and sold off and the land replanted with larch. Unfortunately (again), woodland management was neglected and it became over-crowded and uncared for. So Doug’s plan was to gradually clear the larch and replant with native broadleaf trees to reinstate the original native woodland. But (yes, yes, unfortunately), then came the onslaught of Phytopthora Ramorum, which means all the remaining larch at The Hillyfield has to be felled over the next few months
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– around 17 acres of it. Plenty to do then, but after decades of misuse, neglect and disease, things are finally looking good for The Hillyfield – and for the surrounding environment and community. Felling is already well underway – one five acre area was cleared in just four months by Doug and a team of volunteers – and replanting has begun. “We hope to continue working closely with Moor Trees,” says Doug, “a charity committed to the ecological diversity of Dartmoor which has, with the help of our volunteers, already planted 3000 mixed broadleaf trees over almost five acres.” This involvement of volunteers is a key part of the Hillyfield plan. Tree felling is very skilled work, and forestry students from Bicton College have been keen to get involved but clearing branches and logs from sometimes very steep ground is labour-intensive work and all volunteers are welcome – see the website. The larch can be used once the bark (where the disease lives) is stripped and this year The Hillyfield has invested in a
mobile sawmill and timber is being transformed into planks, floorboards and framing timber (as used by Jon Bayes in editor Foster’s sunroom – read more on page 26). Hillyfield timber has also been used in local community projects, including a bench for Palstow Park in South Brent (made by the children at their after-school club), playgrounds and sculpted climbing poles in Plymouth (through the city council’s Stepping Stones To Nature project) and in a recently erected roundhouse for Brixham CofE Primary School. If you are interesting in buying local timber, commissioning a beautiful bespoke bed, bench, shed or structure, or making something yourself from Hillyfield Timber, get in touch. Wood is also being cut and stacked to season over the winter and will be sold through The Hillyfield’s Community Supported Firewood project – find out more through the website. Larch can be used once stripped - perfect And if you’d like to for building and craft projects. get involved, there are regular volunteer days and a host of courses and workshops coming soon, run by The Hillyfield Community Interest Company. You know where to go - www.thehillyfield. co.uk, or email thehillyfield@gmail. com.
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Community farm looks Call of the Wild to crowdfund growth THE UK’s only organically certified, no-dig community farm has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise funds to expand after a successful first year. School Farm Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), based on a one acre site on the Dartington Estate, operates as a not-forprofit social enterprise providing fresh, organic vegetables grown using low-carbon methods. Members invest in the farm at the beginning of the season, receive a weekly vegetable box and become involved in the growing of the food by contact with the farmers, volunteer and open day activities. The farm also offers horticultural training through local education institutions and affordable gardening courses. The farm completed a pilot this year and has been overwhelmed by support and demand for both its locally grown produce and educational activities. At present the CSA supplies 20 local families and has this year held 49 volunteer days,
Promoting environmental awareness through education & training
WILDWISE BUSHCRAFT NATURE AWARENESS KIDS & FAMILY EVENTS PROFESSIONAL TRAINING BEAUTIFUL WILD DEVON AS SEEN ON BBC TV
For further information on our courses & events please call 01803 868269
www.wildwise.co.uk
a subsidised beginners’ gardening course and several open days for the wider community, one of which, aimed at 50 people, attracted over 600! “We need help to take on more land, allowing us to reach a wider range of people,” says Jenny Gellatly, one of four directors and growers involved in the farm. They have decided to raise funds through crowdfunding website Buzzbank, where people can go online to pledge time and money. Says director Laura Green: “Rather than trying to take out a bank loan and the interest going into bankers’ pockets, we want to use people power and crowdfunding to draw like-minded supporters who are also inspired to take a stand against the status quo, and help their community rebuild the local food economy. “Every pound donated will make a difference to what we are doing, and if it’s not for yourself then buying the gift voucher as a Christmas present will help us and help spread the word about what we are trying to achieve.” Find them on FaceBook at www. facebook.com/SchoolFarmCSA.
Charity works with college to launch horticulture course LOCAL conservation charity Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust is running a sustainable horticulture course at Occombe Farm in Paignton. Occombe Farm has developed a partnership with Duchy College to offer a range of full-time and part-time horticulture qualifications designed for people starting out on a career, seeking a new direction, or people simply wanting to increase the employment opportunities available to them. Julian Carnell of Torbay Coast and Countryside, said: “Having created a demonstration market garden and smallholding, we now hope to offer more people training and
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learning opportunities utilising Duchy’s wealth of expertise and experience.” The Sustainable Horticulture courses lead to recognised City and Guilds qualifications and offer a combination of theory and practical hands on learning. The first course will be Level 1 and run for two days a week for 18 weeks. Occombe says this is a funded course and concessions are available - ask on application for more information. Course intakes for 2014 are in March for Level 1 and in September for Levels 2 and 3. Visit www.duchy.ac.uk or call 0845 60 50 455.
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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What would YOU like to see in Reconnect? Traders’ plea for high street shops
Looking After Your Health
Love Health Love Cooking
5 day course Price: £550 4-8 February
5 mornings 2.5 days
in March £295 9-11 May £295
Immerse yourself for five days in Oriental Learn how to create delicious, colourful, Medical Principles,Yin and Yang, the Five nourishing dishes using wholesome ingredients: Elements and practice your cooking skills in soups, wholegrains, vegetarian protein vegetables and sugar and dairy free desserts. the 10 cooking classes.
HIGH street bookshops have perhaps been hardest hit by the growth in online shopping and one local trader is urging people to buy from “real shops” this Christmas. “Internet shopping is destroying local high streets across the UK,” says Douglas Cockbain of Arcturus Books in Totnes. “The power to save Totnes for future generations is in the hands of people who shop here – if we don’t support real shops, they will die. “The staff at Arcturus believe that given the alternative of boarded-up shopping centres, most customers will be willing to abandon their keyboards to support local independent shops in maintaining a vibrant and buzzing local community. “Nothing can replace the pleasure of browsing real books, chatting with friendly staff and other customers, and perhaps discovering some delightful gem of a book that will truly inspire. Books can change lives – come and enjoy and be inspired!” Visit Arcturus at 46 Fore Street, Totnes, or call 01803 864363.
Extreme litter THE Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust held an Extreme Beach Clean at Ansteys Cove, in conjunction with Adelong Adventures and Reach Outdoors, to clean up areas not usually accessible by normal means. Staff and volunteers were kitted out in wetsuits and ‘coasteered’ their way around the cove to pick up out of the way litter. www.countryside-trust.org.uk.
Herbal Hot Drinks
Spreading smiles one cup at a time Over working, stress and illness can cause you to lose some of your potent Jing and Shen energy. There are powerful herbs that can replenish this energy bringing you increased body strength, calmness and balance and an ability to cope with the everyday challenges life throws at us.
It is these special Jing herbs which are used to create New Earth’s nourishing drinks.
www.newearthdrinks.com 22
MS volunteers
Above: Huddle, silver birches at Leigh Tor on Dartm Meadowsfoot Beach (aka Mothercombe) on the Fle
THE MS Society in Exeter is looking for a new newsletter editor and for volunteers to help out at fundraising events. If you can spare even a few hours for this deserving group, contact their branch office on 0845 602 0805.
Seeing nature thro
Cathedral market THE Cathedral Green in Exeter is playing host to a Christmas market until Thursday, December 19. The organisers promise “unique, handmade and unusual gifts, decorations and food items.”
Village ceilidh GET your dancing shoes on for a ceilidh in Brent village hall on Saturday, December 28. Doors open 7pm for a 7.30 start and entrance is £7.50, including a glass of non-alcoholic punch. Visit www.southbrentfolk.org.
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WE couldn’t end the Reconnect year without running more wonderful images from the camera, eye and creative spirit of South Hams photographer Phil Hemsley – particularly since his prints and photographic courses make such great Christmas pressies. The prints range from 12x8 inches up to panoramas over four feet and are Gicleeprinted on museum grade pure cotton-rag photo papers and are also available on finest cotton canvas, with real wood stretchers. The signed prints (most of them ‘open edition’ but there are limited editions too if you fancy something more exclusive) come with archive grade window and rear mount, ready to be framed - beautiful detailed prints of stunning scenes, that will last a lifetime. His landscape photography workshops are available at weekends throughout the year as half, or full-day options, starting from £60 for a four-hour one-to-one course. He can also supply vouchers towards workshops.
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adve
rts@reconnectonline. ...email us food at local health co.uk local people local events local local environment
It’s proof that money DOES grow on trees ETHICAL investment advisor Cris Iles-Wright of Barchester Green explains why trees are a good bet...
moor; and below, The Waiting Room, ete Estate.
ough Phil’s eyes The tuition is aimed at helping you to develop your creative skills, vision and style. “You will end the workshop with a hearty smile and some great photographs,” says Phil. Phil is a qualified outdoor education instructor and holds a PGCE teaching certificate. To find out more, call Phil on 0797 353 8857, email philhemsley@outlook.com and visit www. philhemsley.co.uk.
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ETHICAL Investment has traditionally involved avoiding sectors such as weaponry, polluters and tobacco, although we also aim to help achieve something positive. An investment opportunity of growing popularity is forestry. Demand for wood and timber products is strong and projected to soar, particularly due to Chinese demand. Demand comes from paper and packaging industries, and home construction is a large use. Timber prices have been on an overall upward trend due to strong demand, and as wood pellet use as a biofuel is expanding, this will add to the demand. Commercial forestry is an important tool in the battle against climate change as trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere while providing habitat and boosting biodiversity. In the UK the Forestry Commission encourages sustainable and responsible management via the Carbon Code to encourage these positive inputs for generations to come. By investing in responsibly managed companies in the UK and globally, investors also gain the opportunity to benefit from some welcome political intervention. The EU has now banned the sale of timber that is not from a sustainable source. This affects imports as well as producers, and includes wood and paper products. This is good news for companies who sustainably manage wood. Aside from these positives, we should remember that timber is just one economic sector. This means that unlike many investments across the economy, wood is reliant on this sector, so has risk consideration. Therefore timber investments often form a proportion of portfolios as opposed to being the main or only investment. In a world where the concept of sustainability is recognised to be important, it may be worth remembering that the concept originated in the forestry industry. We hope it also proves that in a way, money does grow on trees. Visit www.barchestergreen.co.uk.
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Whether it’s a cosy hemp hoody for those cooler days, a smart casual dress you can quickly throw on, or a pair of funky wide-legged trousers to lounge about in at home, you can be sure you will find something that guarantees sustainability, comfort and style. Autumn/Winter collection out mid Sept.
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Amanda Pellatt - December 2
Events diary
Check outlocal our environment diary online... local people local events local food local health December Sunday 1 Until Jan 11 After the Enlightenment - exhibition of works by Kit Poulson looking at the aftermath of the vision, Exeter Phoenix, 01392 667080, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk. Until Dec 13 Christmas Tree Festival - over 50 decorated and brightly lit trees, refreshments, SS Nicholas and Faith Church, Saltash, www. saltashteamministry.org. Until Dec 19 Christmas Market “Unique, handmade and unusual gifts, decorations and food items” on Cathedral Green. Forest gardening (free Skillshare) - familyfriendly sessions at Community Forest Garden, Follaton Arboretum, Totnes, 10am1pm, 01803 762992, 07929 962653, www. transitiontowntotnes.org
The Sapphires - Janaury 25
Monday 2 Until Dec 15 All Things Bright and Beautiful - new impressionist paintings by Amanda Pellatt inspired by birds, butterflies and the colours of nature, Harbour House Gallery, Kingsbridge, 01548 854708, www. harbourhouse.org.uk.
Mad Dog McRea - December 14
This Events Diary is primarily for arts and crafts events across the region. For therapy and personal development events, please turn to the Workshops & Courses Diary on page 43. To advertise there costs just 90p a word - email adverts@ reconnectonline.co.uk.
Talk on New Economics. Julie Richardson – Bringing Gross National Happiness Home, presented by Transition Town Totnes and Totnes REconomy Project, Schumacher College, 8pm, www. schumachercollege.org.uk. Tuesday 3 Time to Breathe (free Skillshare) - every Tuesday. “A space for relaxation, growth and self-nurture”, Forge Yoga Centre, 12.301.30pm, hilary@ flowerofgrace.com, 01803 840490, www.
Your event not included? WELL, that’s only because YOU didn’t tell us about it? Don’t miss out next time - email your February/March events to us at editor@ reconnectonline.co.uk by January 3 transitiontowntotnes.org. Poetry Conversation Myths. Hosted by Alice Oswald, Octagonal Room, Sharpham House, 7.30pm, 01803 732542, www.sharphamtrust.org. Wednesday 4 Until Jan 4 Treasure Island Christmas show for children of all ages, music, dance, jokes and a pirate, Exeter Phoenix, 01392 667080, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk. Robin Ince - award winning comedian and science enthusiast Robin Ince, 8pm, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 01803 839530, www. theflavel.org.uk. Chris Wood - BBC2’s Folk Singer of the Year 2011, Exeter Phoenix, 01392 667080, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk. St David’s Singers choir concert, Cygnet Theatre, 7.30pm, 01392 665885 for tickets, www. cygnettheatre.co.uk. Late night shopping Barbican’s independent shops and galleries open until 8pm - followed by a meal at one of the many Barbican eateries? www. barbicanwaterfront.com . Thursday 5 Green Drinks - preChristmas drinks, from 7pm, Park Hotel, Exeter Road, Exmouth. Friday 6 And Dec 7 Candlelit Arias - Little Opera Company, “music for all tastes”, 7.30pm, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 01803 839530, www.theflavel. org.uk. Transition Walks on
Friday - A walk around Totnes visiting Transition Town Totnes projects, 2-6pm, starts and ends TTT office, 43 Fore Street, £20 suggested donation for visitors, £10 for locals, 01803 867358, www. transitiontowntotnes.org. Candlelit Dartmouth: market and entertainers in Royal Avenue Gardens (4-8pm); carol singing at Christmas tree (5.15pm); switch on lights (5.50pm); arrival of Santa by boat (6pm), www. candlelitdartmouth.co.uk. Saturday 7 Christmas Celebrations - day of celebrations at Devon Guild of Celebrations, Bovey Tracey, handmade gifts, carol singers, free mulled wine and homemade shortbreads, free, 01626 832223, www.crafts. org.uk. Vintage Tea Cup Workshop - make your own vintage tea cup and candle - part of Candlelit Dartmouth, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 11.30am, 01803 839530, www.theflavel. org.uk. Christmas at Cricklepit - day of festive family activities at Devon Wildlife Trust HQ, Cricklepit Mill, Exeter, 10.30am-3.30pm, www.devonwildlifetrust. org. Candlelit Arias - The Little Opera Company, “music for all tastes”, 7.30pm, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 01803 839530, www.theflavel. org.uk. Candlelit Dartmouth: market and entertainment, Royal Avenue Gardens (10am-7pm); Dartmouth Academy Christmas Fair,
Old Market (10am-5pm); seasonal craft workshops, Flavel Arts Centre (10am4pm); children’s fancy dress, bandstand (11am); lantern procession from Old Market, 5.30pm; lantern procession arrives in Royal Avenue Gardens (6pm), www. candlelitdartmouth.co.uk. Tuesday 10 Until Dec 14 Jane Ayre - adapted by Polly Teale, presented by Cygnet Company, 7.30pm, 01392 665885 for tickets, www. cygnettheatre.co.uk. Christmas Carol Concert, Exeter University Singers, Great Hall, The Dartington Hall Estate, 01803 847070, www. dartington.org. Wednesday 11 Late night shopping Barbican’s independent shops and galleries open until 8pm - followed by a meal at one of the many Barbican eateries? www. barbicanwaterfront.com . Thursday 12 John Smith - steelstring acoustic guitar man, Exeter Phoenix, 01392 667080, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk. Barn Owl Trust Walk & Festive Wreath Making - collect materials and make your festive wreath, plus pies and cream! Barn Owl Trust nature reserve, 01364 653026, info@barnowltrust.org. uk, www.barnowltrust. org.uk. Saturday 14 Until Feb 2 Sara Bowler with The Looe Street Detectives installation of findings from research project into 38 Looe Street (now the home of the Plymouth Arts Centre) and the immediate neighbourhood, at Plymouth Arts Centre, Tues-Sat 10am-8.30pm, Sun 4.30-8.30pm, www. plymouthartscentre.org.
Opportunity to buy something weird and wonderful at Christmas Take a journey through the strange and magical ceramic world of Robin Currie. Don’t Miss his exhibition at Unearth, from November 19th to December 21st - 46 Preston Street, Exeter EX1 1DF. Tel: 01392 221076. Open Tues, Wed, Thurs & Sat 10am - 5pm. http://unearth.org.uk - http://robincurrie.co.uk
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facebook.com/ReconnectMagaz ...visit us atlocal food ine local people local events local health local environment Mad Dog Mcrea - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, 8.30pm, £10 in advance, £12 on door, www.southdevonarts. co.uk. Basket-making workshop - Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Phoenix Hall, Bovey Tracey, 01626 832223, devonguild@ crafts.org.uk
warm! 01392 667080, www.exeterphoenix. org.uk. Friday 20 Until Dec 29 Cinema Paradiso classic film telling love story set in projection booth of Sicilian cinema, Plymouth Arts Centre, www.plymouthartscentre. org.
Sunday 15
Saturday 21
Christmas work party - clear invasive rhododendron and replace bird boxes, followed by BBQ, 10am3pm, Devon Wildlife Trust nature reserve, www.devonwildlifetrust.org.
Phonic Christmas Party - burlesque, comedy, bands , DJs, 7.15pm, Exeter Phoenix, 01392 667080, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk.
Dangerous Dads meet at pirate ship on Steamer Quay, Totnes, all dads/male carers with children aged five or under welcome, 01803 840990 or 077317 95160.
Community radio (free Skillshare) - how to create a programme or feature for community radio, 2-4pm, REconomy Centre, Leechwell Street, Totnes, donations welcome to South Brent Radio, southbrentradio. webs.com, www. transitiontowntotnes.org.
Tuesday 17 Until Dec 21 Gawain and the Green Knight - Four of Swords present new adaptation of classic Arthurian legend using theatre, film, live music and a puppet - some action is outside, so wrap up
Monday 23
Friday 27 Post-Christmas Cycle Ride - Exmouth to Topsham via Exe Estuary Cycle Path, assemble by Exmouth Swimming Pool,
11am, 01395 268301. Saturday 28 Ceilidh - South Brent village hall, doors open 7pm for 7.30, tickets £7.50, www. southbrentfolk.org. Until Dec 31 Puss in Boots - traditional panto from the Dartmouth Players, Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, 01803 839530 or www.theflavel. org.uk for times, tickets. Tuesday 31 NYE Spectacula Fantastica - dress-up and merriment in themed rooms: Big Top (with circus stage); Secret Speakeasy Cabaret and a 50s swing-dance party, Exeter Phoenix, 01392 667080, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk. January Thursday 2 Cinema Paradiso - film telling love story set in projection booth of Sicilian cinema, Plymouth Arts Centre, www. plymouthartscentre.org. Friday 3 Computer passwords and identity theft (free Skillshare) - Chartered
IT professional Mark Cross on how to beat identity theft, REconomy Centre, Leechwell Street, Totnes, visit www. totnesit.com/free-help/ for course notes, www. transitiontowntotnes.org. Tuesday 7 Until Jan 11 Jane Ayre - adapted by Polly Teale, presented by Cygnet Company, 7.30pm (2pm matinee on Sat 11), 01392 665885 for tickets, www. cygnettheatre.co.uk. Wednesday 8 Plymouth Green Book Club - Feral: Rewilding the Land, the Sea and Human Life by George Monbiot, 6.30-8pm, Room 402, Babbage Building, Plymouth University, menzalan@ blueyonder.co.uk. Saturday 11 And January 12 Discover Tree Planting and Care Weekend - plant Trees for the New Year, Underwood Discovery Centre, Beeson, info@ treesforhealth.org, www. treesforhealth.org. Hedge Laying hands-on workshop,
Wodah Farm, Doddiscombeleigh, 01884 254953, www. devonruralskillstrust. co.uk. Wednesday 15 Practical conservation work, Barn Owl Trust Nature Reserve - the Lennon Legacy Project. Booking essential, call 01364 653026, info@ barnowltrust.org.uk, www.barnowltrust.org.uk. Thursday 16 Until Jan 25 Studio/Gallery watercolour artists Rob and Siân Dudley take over empty art gallery and turn it into a studio, Harbour House Gallery, Kingsbridge, 01548 854708, www. harbourhouse.org.uk. Saturday 18 Stoke Gabriel Wassail, traditional cider apple blessing celebration in orchard and Church Walk, folk music, Morris dancing, face painting, mummers play, 4.30pm. Saturday 25 Japanese ink painting workshop with Talia Levia, 10am-4pm, Yume Martin Gallery, 26a
North Street, Ashburton, 07772005261, hello@ yumemartin.co.uk. Community cinema - feel-good comedy The Sapphires (PG) at Follaton Community Cinema, Follaton, Totnes, 7pm for 7.30 start, refreshments, watch the trailer at www. follatoncommunity cinema.co.uk or call Martin on 01803 868455 for info. Hedge Laying hands-on workshop, Wodah Farm, Doddiscombsleigh, call Mick Godfrey on 01548 821156, www. devonruralskillsrrust. co.uk. Friday 31 Acoustic Haven - The Adventurists and Sam & Henry, plus organic soup, homemade cakes and locally brewed ale, St John’s Church, Totnes, doors open 6.30pm, tickets £10 on door or £8 from Harlequin Bookshop and www. wegottickets.com. Craft Day - share, help and work with other crafters, Tuckers Arms, Dalwood, Honiton, 10.30am-3.30pm, 07810 411311.
l Turn to page 43 in Wellbeing to check out our workshops and events listings l
We are Kingfisher Print & Design. No matter what the job, big or small, we’ll work closely with you, understanding and treating each project with individual care and attention. Working in an environmentally responsible way, we are FSC certified and this drives everything we do. Combined with our wealth of knowledge and experience, this allows us to deliver what we do best - beautiful print of the highest standard… If you would like to speak to us about a project please feel free to drop us a line 01803 867087.
We take our business seriously…
Wills Road, Totnes, Devon TQ9 5XN 01803 867087 sales@kingfisherprint.co.uk www.kingfisherprint.co.uk
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Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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Sustainable, local people renewable, local eventstraditional... local food local health local environment
Eco homes & building
IF you’re involved in an eco or traditional build project, we’d love to hear from you - email editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
Big praise for tiny house movement MOST people who buy a shepherd’s hut (or one of James Ford’s Shire Houses, or any of the other ‘alternative’ living spaces on the market), do so for extra accommodation. They’re just perfect for use as a garden office, to provide a place for guests to stay, or as a weekend bolt hole in the country. They’re also proving a popular choice for holidays too, offering a quirky practicality over canvas. But Duncan Passmore, who builds shepherd’s huts and other small buildings in a workshop on Dartington Estate, would like to see more of them actually being lived in. After working on various sustainable living projects, including the earthship featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs in 2009 and with ‘garbage warrior’ Mike Reynolds in New Mexico (www.garbagewarrior. com), he passionately believes the growing ‘tiny house’ movement has much to offer. “Downsizing to a small home, that does not rely on high technology,
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has a lot of merit,” says Duncan. “They are cheaper to buy and require less expenditure and time to maintain – freeing us up to do other things, like growing food. “We’ve been gradually coerced into believing we need lots of space and lots of things, when in fact most of us would be happier without having so many things to deal with.” Finding work Schumacher College’s you truly love shepherd’s hut - Beco is another part Solar has since installed of Duncan’s a PV system. philosophy. “I am able to other bespoke buildings, for sale. work outside with wonderful natural “I am currently experimenting materials, including local timber with materials so I can keep the and hemp insulation” he says. cost down without compromising The first hut he built will be used on the aesthetics,” says Duncan. by Schumacher College to provide “Depending on spec, I should be accommodation for storyteller able to sell a complete shepherd’s Martin Shaw while he is at the hut for around £12,000.” college. The second will be used Duncan, who works with coby other visitors to the college and designer Zav Bowden and cothe third will be auctioned to raise builder Maxine Lagaisse, can be funds. contacted on 07428 767 592, or at Duncan is also building huts, and otaboy@googlemail.com.
jon bayes Work flowsfqwefqwe in for Jon at Rivers Joinery WORK has been mixed and plentiful lately for the everindustrious and creative Rivers Joinery, based in Buckfastleigh. Over the past couple of months Jon Bayes has completed an amazing timberframe sunroom (right) using timber from The Hillyfield (see page 20) for a certain magazine editor and built a bridge for a nearby estate. Meanwhile, back in his workshop Jon has made a hand-carved joined chest and will soon be starting work on a settle and
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sculpted bench. Next season Jon plans to take his workbench to craft fairs around the country to demonstrate making furniture using handtools and traditional methods. Visit www.riversjoinery. co.uk or call 07729 589986.
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Loo builders clean up in compost competition AND the judges’ results are in… The Transition Town Totnes judges have deliberated and we can now reveal the winners of their compost loo competition: The top All-round Best Loo award went to Monkton Wyld Court, the Dorset education centre for sustainable living, whose loo in the woods was built in 2012. “It uses a traditional two pit system,” says Monkton Wyld Court’s Lynden Miles, “with the toilet moving over to the second pit when the first is full. Rainwater is harvested off the roof and feeds into a tank for handwashing via a foot-operated pump.” Best Local Loo went to Lee Love, whose self-contained unit was built around an IBC (intermediate bulk container) and was inspired by Dave Woods of the Thunderbox Collective (www.thunderboxes2go.co.uk). For the Best School Loo winner we go international to the Tonatiuh Magana Composting toilets at the Montessori Preschool and School in Tecate, Mexico. Built using “light straw clay”, the interior was decorated by the children using recycled pieces of tile and broken mirrors. The honours for Best Temporary Solution went to Fracking Protest 3’s flat-packed portable, designed and built by Casparo Brown from Lewes, and funded by Lush for the protest. They used wheelie bins to collect solids and straw bales to collect liquids, all of which was transported to a nearby farm to compost.
Best View was won by the loo at the Corrour bothie in the Lairig Ghru pass that cuts through the Cairngorms. The compost loo solved the problem of what to do with bothie poo. The noo. And a loo just down the road (well, track) from there, in the Linn of Dee car park, took the title for Least Maintenance. For Most Innovative, we turn to Patricia Jimenez Lopez La Bixa, whose compost loo is called La Bixa and is located on Menorca. It was built by a group called Proyecto áSILO (sileros.wordpress.com), using nearby reeds and stones, recycled pallets and pieces of glass “to transform the toilet into a magical space.” Competition organiser and judge Katheryn Trenshaw said: “We had responses from all over the world and it really was very difficult to choose because each submission has something amazing to share.” The top five winners will each receive a Separett toilet seat from Ecotoilets (www.eco-toilets.co.uk}. And every entrant will be included in a book that the TTT Arts Network are creating about compost loos. Says Katheryn: “It will both be a practical guide to compost, to which Nicky Scott is contributing, and a focus on the art and architecture of compost loos and upcycling.” Meanwhile, anyone inspired to send in pictures of their own compost loo can do so at www. transitiontowntotnes.org/groups/arts.
SOME of the winners: Monkton Wyld took top honours, above; Best Local Loo was won by Lee Love, below; and Best School Loo was won by Montessori Preschool and School in Tecate, Mexico, right.
Eco home co-op wants your support AN eco community co-operative is inviting people to get involved and share their skills with the intention of purchasing a suitable site and building individual eco-homes. The Totnes Eco Education Community (TEECom) has registered a Mutuals Cooperative and now aims to share “collective skills with others in very practical learning-bydoing sessions and workshops.” Co-founder Sophie ChristopherBowes explained: “We want to establish, teach and offer examples of ways of living co-operatively, harmoniously, sustainably and self sufficiently with each other and the environment for the benefit of the local and wider ecological communities.” TEECom has already earmarked what they believe is a suitable plot of land and are looking for the support of would-be home builders and other like-minded people. Anyone taking out a £1 share in the co-op can become a potential resident or an associate supporter – either of whom can invest any sum they like into the project.
www.reconnectonline.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co
TEECom is also looking for people who can offer skills and/or working help, or who want to enlist for one of their workshops or courses, which currently include: Permaculture Design Introduction (one session) or Full Design (one per week over nine weeks, or over four weekends); Practical Eco-Home Self- building; and Building a Small Scale Biogas Plant and Composting. Co-founder Jeffery Gale explained: “Our passion is to create places where people are happy, productive, and sustainable. We began from small humble beginnings and have made up for our lack of resources with creative thinking and solutions. “We understand that co-operation rather than competition is required and plan to work with students and universities to grow projects into a more productive business model. “We welcome other organisations and individuals to contact us and get involved.” Visit teecom.org, call 01803 866349 or 07842 573922, or email eco-architectureandplanning.com.
Editorial: 01392 01803 346204 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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Eco homes &events building local people local local food local health local environment ...email us at The Shire House (below) and the Pod, left. The Shire House interior features woodframe construction and bespoke detailing.
Bringing Middle Earth homes to life IN 2007, James Ford was hit by a drunk driver while on holiday on a Thai island. He was fortunate to survive the accident but spent eight months literally flat on his back during which time he watched a lot of DVDs. “I knew that when I was able to leave my bed, I’d spend a long time – perhaps the rest of my life – in a wheelchair and one day while watching Lord of the Rings it occurred to me that you’d never get a wheelchair through one of those round hobbit house doors. “But if you flattened off the doorway at the base…” SIMPLE, COST EFFECTIVE, CSH CODE LEVEL 6 HOUSING MODEL FOR THE TRANSITION HOMES PROJECT, DARTINGTON.
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COMMUNITY SUSTAINABLE HOUSING CONSERVATION / ECO REFURB SMALL ECO PROJECTS / EXTENSIONS SPORTS & EDUCATION BED 1
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And so the seed of an idea was germinated. Further inspired by his love of medieval-style architecture, as soon as he was physically able, James began making models. And months later, as soon as he was able to walk on crutches, he started a furnituremaking course at Gloucestershire College. Today, although he is often in pain, he can walk without a limp and his company My Shire Houses is making Hobbit houses for anyone wanting to recreate a little Middle Earth magic in their garden or on their land. And they are all accessible in a wheelchair. “They have really caught people’s imagination,” said James, whose workshop is in the Cotswolds and who discovered Reconnect through his sister Nova Jupiter-Jones, who lives in Exeter. All the materials he uses are ecofriendly and there is “no limit” to the bespoke interiors you can order. While those round doors and windows appeal to the Hobbit in us all, James is well aware that buildings like these need to work for their living, whether as office space, studio, summer house, yoga room
or children’s playhouse. So both of his basic designs – the Pod and the double-fronted Shire House – combine design features that ensure they are low maintenance and comply with planning regulations. But not all Shire Houses are being hidden away in back gardens and secluded woodland. After donating one to The National Star College, which provides education and personal development for disabled young people, they came back to him and bought five, which they use for accommodation. They are also being bought for use as holiday accommodation. And they will soon be TV stars in their own right – Channel 4’s Amazing Spaces has been filming with him on and off through the Summer. Visit www.myshirehouses.co.uk.
BATHROOM
LANDING
BED 2
SUN SPACE BELOW
SOUTH PERSPECTIVE TYPICAL 3/4 BEDROOM ECO HOUSE FIRST FLOOR
PV AND SOLAR THERMAL PANELS
For your project, please contact: Andrew R Kirby RIBA (Totnes) 01803 867377 info@ledarchitects.co.uk www.LEDarchitects.co.uk NATURAL PASSIVE STACK VENTILATION AND MVHR
BIO-MASS HEATING
(PASSIVE SOLAR) SUN SPACE
COMPOST LOOS/ REED BED SYSTEM
High performance timber frame glazing.
RAINWATER HARVESTING
Super Insulated timber frame construction using natural insulation. Lithotherm (recycled brick) underfloor heating tiles to ground and first floor for thermal mass.
ENVIRONMENTAL SITE SECTION
Rammed earth 'Thermal Wall' acting as Ecological building feature and as thermal mass to passive solar strategy.
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Refurnish opens new outlet REFURNISH, the community household recycling project, has opened a new store and furniture repair/upcycling workshop at The Dartington Shops (formerly Dartington Cider Press Centre). The new outlet is selling “an exciting array of reworked/upcycled furniture, an eclectic mix of collectibles and some antiques.” “It’s all come together perfectly,” said Refurnish chief executive David Banks. “From the moment we knew we could move into this amazing space, there has been a flurry of creative collaboration
between volunteers and our staff to repair, refresh, restore and upcycle some of the tired or damaged items that Refurnish collects.” But demand is expected to be high so they are looking for donations of more interesting and quality items – and skilled volunteer carpenters and furniture restorers to help with more complex repairs. “We’re always looking for volunteers to look after the shop too,” said David. “It would be ideal for local artists and makers who could work on their own projects between customers. “We’d like to thank the local councillors who have provided a small amount of funding for the project. We are applying for more and hope to be able to offer paid employment in the future. “Finally, we’d like to thank Adrian Porter, Sarah Conway and our band of dedicated volunteers who have put so much into getting this project up and running.” If you have furniture or unusual household goods to donate, or you would like to get involved in the Refurnish project, email dartington@refurnish.org.uk. l REFURNISH have also just opened a new store in Torquay at 45 Union Street and would love to hear form anyone with furniture or household goods donations. As always, they are also looking for volunteers to help run the store. Call them on 01752 897311.
The embercombe
the embercombe
OTHER EBC PROJECTS
The new Refurnish at Dartington shop, above, and an example of the upcycled furniture on offer, below, and the interior takes shape, far left.
Trader ban improves shop choice THERE should be a wider choice of furniture and other goodies at the Totnes Refurnish store after they banned traders. “It was a difficult decision,” admits regional manager David Banks, “but if traders are allowed to cream off the best items, it means there’s not as much on sale in the store – particularly for those on benefits who pay less for the goods. “It won’t be easy to police, and the occasional item will still find its way back onto the market, but customers have already commented on the wider choice.” Visit www.refurnish.org.uk.
MY SHIRE HOUSES Bespoke camping pods and Shire Houses hand-crafted and delivered on-site
THE
If you need more space to accommodate extra friends...
MENTO R I N G A former Apprentice under the watchful eye of one of our Master Craftsmen
...or somewhere for that quiet time...
Tel: 01647 253403 Email: info@embercombebuild.co.uk GIVIN G B AC K
As well as being professional surfers and qualified electricians, former colleagues such as Rich Sills act in a mentoring capacity for the Embercombe Building Company Ltd. These individuals are all people who Phill Ireland helped to succeed, and give their time for free.
www.embercombebuild.co.uk PROJECT MANAGEMENT . DESIGN & BUILD . ENVIRONMENTAL BUILDING . RENOVATIONS . CONVERSIONS . BESPOKE TIMBER FRAME CONSTRUCTION
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P RO G R
The Linh Learning ...there are no limits. Worksho We offer a wide range of Embercom functions for our shire houses with many people using them for Ltd’s flag a home office or putting them on a plot of land to rent . main Con Visit www.myshirehouses.co.uk Design Call James on 07817856999 Managem Email myshirehouses@gmail.comand Con intensive Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk up-skilling 29
Talk to us about - call 01392 346342 local people localadvertising events local food local health local environment WELCOME to Wellbeing. WELCOME to Wellbeing, the one big truly local guide to natural therapies and personal development across South Devon. If you’re a practitioner and want to spread the word, get in touch. An 1/8-page in the Wellbeing section, like those at the bottom of this page, can cost just £41.85 a month when you book six issues and pay by direct debit.
Learning art of sandplay SANDPLAY has become an important tool in the work of counsellors and psychotherapists and the Dartmoor Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy in Newton Abbot now has a dedicated Sandplay Room for training therapists. Find out more on page 39.
And there’s free editorial too to ensure you get the full message out there. We’ve got a small but perfectly formed team of journalists and designers who will help you every step of the way. Reconnect does NOT do the hard sell - we simply believe in helping you to do what you WANT to do. Call Pete on 01395 270157 or Martin on 01803 868455.
Bringing it home STUDYING in the comfort of your own home using online technology has never been more popular. With this in mind, Devon Academy, one of the UK’s leading massage schools based in Exeter, has introduced an interactive online learning programme for students to study anatomy and physiology, attaining an internationally recognised qualification. This online course covers all systems of the human body using a variety of interactive methods designed to make learning easy and fun. Devon Academy principal Gail Lowe said: “People have busy lives and want to spend less time in the classroom. With this in mind we are focusing on teaching the practical parts of our courses in the classroom and aim to transfer all our theory online by January 2014. This will open up our courses to those in full time employment and those with limited time” For further information on anatomy, physiology and pathology e-learning contact Devon Academy on 01392 826033 or email info@ devonacademy.co.uk.
Start on the inside to discover true passions IN these changing times, when most of us are aware of the urgency and importance of sustainability, The Passionate Presence Center for Creative Expression is dealing with these issues “from the inside out”. Its founder Katheryn Trenshaw says: “The Passionate Presence Center offers individuals and organisations ways to address not just what they do, but more importantly HOW they do them. “In a state of presence, and with vitality that’s released with our creative force and health, what you might call passion, we are free and most resilient.” “And from that place of authentic freedom you can at long last get on with the important stuff - living your life and connecting with your passions. Not what you would be, should be or could be Katheryn Trenshaw - working from the inside out. but who you genuinely ARE!” “One of the many things that sets this way of working Katheryn runs one-to-one and group apart, is that it is not about changing things – it’s about sessions focused on creative approaches (like using integrating what is true and taking away what hinders the visual art materials, enquiry and sometimes movement) natural intelligence and genius that each person holds. to reveal, discover and “re-vision” with fresh perspectives on what is most relevant, vital and useful “This inside out approach allows for the natural flow, to you right now. satisfaction and success to arise.” Visit www.passionatepresence.org, email post@ “From these innate strengths and natural abilities, ktranshaw.com and call 01803 863552. individuals and organisations thrive,” says Katheryn.
Presents
Strength through gentleness
MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT SHOW In aid of charity
22nd February 2014 10am - 5pm Torquay Town Hall
Acupuncture -
integrated method Mark Edlund Plater Totnes area 01803 862803 07506 179808
Readers, healers, therapists, crystals, books, CDs, Gifts etc. All day programme of workshops, demonstrations and talks (FREE ADMISSION) Please contact Sandi Clark 07900 824089 for more details or if you wish to take part
mark.edlundplater@gmail.com
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Child & Family Psychotherapy Clinic in Totnes “I am an experienced child, adolescent and family psychotherapist offering a new private service in Totnes. It is difficult to get access to the right kind of help for children, young people and families from the NHS. Services are very limited and access criteria often rule you out.”
Contact Richard Buckland on: The Christmas period can be a challenge.
Simple tips to reduce the stress over Christmas CHRISTMAS is traditionally a time to celebrate and spend time with family and friends – but for some, it cam be a time of increased stress, anxiety, depression and loneliness. Leigh Smith, director of Heartwood Centre for Counselling in Dartington, says: “It can be so easy to get caught up in the stress of Christmas and forget the real message of the season. “For many, the Christmas period is a challenge. Spending prolonged periods of time with family members can increase the chances of conflict, and the economic downturn brings its own difficulties at a time when we might feel pressurised to buy things we can’t afford. “Over-drinking and eating can also bring a sense of lethargy and compromise the immune system.” Leigh offers us some simple tips to help us enjoy this time of year. l Plan ahead and ask family members to help with the load delegating some of the chores may also help to bring the family into a sense of joint adventure. l Choose carefully how you spend your time and energy this Christmas. Look again at your ‘to do’ list and ask if it’s all really necessary. l Try to eat well - fresh fruit and vegetables can help lift spirits. l Find time for a little exercise - a short walk can help reduce anxiety and depression. l Avoid overspending - people generally appreciate a small modest gift or something home made.
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l Pay attention to your breath your breathing is an indicator of stress and anxiety, so if you notice your breathing becoming fast paced take a moment to enjoy some long slow breaths. This can help halt the escalation of anxiety. l Take time to enjoy the simple pleasures of your life - feed your spirit and be creative. l Break with tradition - does your family really enjoy these set traditions or are you able to replace them with more personal new ideas? Fancy sushi for Christmas dinner? l Do good! People report feeling a spiritual lift after helping others, so try offering a couple of hours volunteering - there are many organisations in Devon who work long hours over Christmas and would appreciate a couple of hours of your time. l Avoid excessive alcohol overdrinking can cause many problems. l Reach out to someone who may be on their own and feeling lonely this Christmas - a telephone chat, a cup of tea or a short walk with a neighbour who is alone this Christmas may make all the difference to their wellbeing. Adds Leigh: “If you need to talk to someone about your feelings, call us at Heartwood and we will put you in touch with a volunteer counselor, who will support you through this difficult time for as little as £7 an hour.” To find out more about local counsellors and courses at Heartwood call 01803 865464 or visit www.heartwoodcounselling. org.
07887 916 190
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Richard Buckland has a long experience both within the NHS, and privately, providing psychotherapeutic help for children and adolescents. Modern family life takes place within an increasingly complex society which places huge demands upon parents who receive much conflicting advice. Despite the best of intentions of parents we can all face life events, or experience psychological pressures which can cause stresses in our children.
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A strategic and non-chiropractic massage is applied to the short musculature of the neck, in only one application, safely and permanently, the atlas bone returns to its correct position. l Nothing I have experienced nor performed has given the benefits and results that this onetime treatment has. The experience to date with the AtlasPROfilax treatment is that my atlas has maintained proper alignment and function. I have felt GREAT ! The chronic pain at the base of my skull is gone. I am more balanced and empowered in my life.” - Dr. Robert A. Pope, Chiropractic Physician l In no more than 25 minutes, nearly all my tensions in my back went. The feeling of relaxation was intense. Now I can watch TV in my bed without any pain in my neck.” - R.B, West Sussex l “I feel like an owl and can now see virtually 360 degrees…” - M.H. Forest Row l “I‘ve had no back pain or migraine, this is phenomenal.” - C.H, 41yrs old l “Vertigo has disappered… my hearing has drastically improved… I can now move my head normally… I used to zigzag and struggled walking straight. I now have a perfect balance and I can walk straight.” P.C, London l “That was until I woke up the next morning with my back pain completely gone, it has never returned and it’s all down to the adjustment of my atlas.” - Lynsey, UK
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www.marieatlas.co.uk Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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HOMEOPATHIC remedies are notoriously dilute and in such small doses that many find it hard to give credit to the extraordinary effect they have in making sick people better. The particles that exist within the atom likewise have not been found and cannot be seen and can only be measured by their effect. And yet Mike Bridger, the Principal of The Contemporary College of Homeopathy in Bristol, says homeopathy is the second major health system in the world and is especially the option of choice for the poorer countries that simply cannot afford to support a major pharmaceutical industry. His view is that with the increasing ineffectiveness of antibiotics, which he believes is already a health timebomb waiting to explode, alternative health systems are going to become increasingly relevant and governments will have to look more seriously at incorporating such systems within general health care. Said Mike: “Our college is a small college. It does not have thousands of students, a huge campus and all that goes with a major educational institution. Its reputation is however spreading and becoming international. Students this year include people from Spain, Portugal and Italy. One student flies over from Malaysia once a month to attend course lectures. “This kind of dedication is heart-
Susanne Gosling Core Process Psychotherapy Holmedale Health, Denmark Road, Exeter EX1 1SE. 07786 333 466 susannegosling@gmail.com www.becomingourselves.co.uk
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warming because it reminds us how far people will go to find out about better ways of doing things whether it be about health, the environment, or the food we eat. People do want to change things and do have the courage to work towards making that change happen.” At the moment the college is mentoring a college and clinic in Ghana. In November Mike went to meet homeopaths in Belgrade with a view to helping them start a new college of excellence in that city. For now, Mike is not sure whether ‘small is beautiful’ but he is sure that ‘small’ is very powerful. To find out more, or arrange a visit to the college, call Kate on 0845 6032878 or go to www.conhom.com.
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100% support for therapists THERAPISTS in South Devon in search of a base are being offered a central location and the backing and support of a leading health food store. 100% Health, which is now in its eighth year of trading, won the title of the UK’s best independent 100% Health - therapy rooms available above the shop. health store for 2012/13. Said Mark: “100% Health is known Owners Mark for its excellence in the natural and Heather Hamilton are now health industry and our customers offering five therapy rooms/offices are an incredibly switched-on to rent at their Torbay Road store in bunch, so we only invite the very the centre of Paignton. best in alternative therapists to take Said Mark: “We are inviting the us up on this potentially fantastic very best practitioners, therapists opportunity to work independently and anyone skilled in natural under the 100% Health brand.” health-related fields the opportunity He added: “Ethics, morals, quality to work under the 100% Health and service are what drive us, so umbrella.” hopefully these values drive you too. Part of the deal will mean any If you haven’t been yet, its definitely therapists practising at the premises worth a visit to check out the store will enjoy promotion of their work and the staff.” through the 100% Health business For more information call and its social media and website 01803 414357 or email operations, instore newsletter and 100percentheather@gmail.com advertising.
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Angelic Guidance and Healing Given by Neil and Zena Angelic Reiki Usui Reiki Crystal Therapy Atlantean Healing Angel Card Readings Retreats Interested In Angels? Would you like to learn how to meet your Guardian Angel? Would you like some Healing? Or would you like to become a Qualified Healer? Are you interested in Crystals and how they can be used to benefit you in everyday life? We run regular Meetings, Workshops, Courses and Events from our base in South Brent. If you are interested in meeting like minded people in a relaxed enjoyable atmosphere, then contact us, or look at our website for more information
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Is your relationship beautiful? THE man behind The Beautiful Relationships Workshop says that after completing his five-step process “you will never see relationships in the same way again.” “The workshops are designed to help people develop, nurture and uncover the love that is sometimes obscured within,” says experienced facilitator Paul Hayward. “It does so in a way aligned with deeper truth, your aspiration and the wisdom of nature, and it gives you a self-help tool kit to help you navigate harmoniously through the jungle of human relationships.” The workshops, run over two days and open to both singles and couples, feature guided meditations and journeying. The five steps are: exploring and defining the essence of a healthy relationship; how to enjoy a healthier relationship with yourself (and thereby with someone else); understanding how previous painful relationships affect our behavior and how to heal ourselves; exploring healing and forgiveness as a powerful tool in our relationships; and power in practice – making a difference to the rest of your life. Paul, a shamanic practitioner, songwriter and dedicated life journeyer, studied Buddhist philosophy and psychotherapy before finding the “missing link” in his spiritual training when he became a
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FEELING STRESSED? ANXIOUS? HAVING TROUBLE SLEEPING?
Try Sophrology, a very popular technique in France, now available in the UK Paul Hayward regular student of shamanic teacher Jonathan Horwitz. “After months of work on my own relationships, I achieved a breakthrough – an explanation that offered peace, release and with it the first glimmer of a smile,” said Paul. “Then, before I could get too self-congratulatory, I felt a hand on my shoulder and received a message from a deeper place saying ‘go to work, you can make a difference’. I hope I can.” Visit www.beautifulrelationships.com or attend a free talk at Totnes Natural Health Centre on Friday, January 17, 7.30-8.30pm. All welcome.
COMBINING BREATHING, BODY MOVEMENTS AND VISUALISATIONS... this unique method will help restore harmony and achieve a greater wellbeing
find out more about Sophrology on www.vie-tality.com EXETER - TOTNES - PLYMOUTH Contact us on 07929 056 135 or email info@vie-tality.com
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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Read past Wellbeing stories in our back issues...
Helping therapists to grow ARE you a therapist who wants to build a private practice? Selling and therapy are not easy bedfellows, but help is at hand. Cathy Towers has a great reputation for motivating those who feel uncomfortable about putting themselves in the public arena. She was recently described as having, “that rare quality of being business savvy, open, generous, diplomatic and also has the softer side for her patients.” Having started with one-day workshops in 2007, Cathy quickly realised this wasn’t suiting therapists. The best help she could give would be a series of monthly
meetings, allowing participants a chance to practice over time and grow confidence in being a business. Said Cathy: “It’s great that someone can go away, try something, and come back with questions about putting it into practice. I don’t know of anyone else who offers that.” Cathy has preview sessions coming up in the New Year in Exeter and Plymouth which give people a chance to try her quirky approach. Full details - call Cathy on 07989 564660 or 01395 278437 and visit www.cpdfortherapists.co.uk.
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MANY of us know, and feel, the benefit of eating with the seasons, something we look at each issue in Carol Lee’s regular column, Seasonal Eating. But nutritional therapist Carol and her colleague Kinesiologist SarahJayne Hayden-Binder have found we can connect in other ways to the flow of the seasons to find incredible resources, clarity and energy. Throughout this year they have been running Seasonal Reboot half-day workshops, which Carol says have been going down a storm. “Based on insights and seasonal wisdom from Chinese Five element theory, weaved together with Kinesiology muscle testing and natural nutrition, the workshops are leaving people feeling balanced, inspired and enthusiastic for more,” she says.
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to include the festivals of Imbolc, Beltane, Llamas and Samhain, the gateways that take us into each new season. These will be whole day workshops and are an opportunity to “discover more and so deepen our personal journey through the seasons.”
“They will include seasonal feasting, time outside and quiet time reflecting as well as lots of discovery and
She will also be running a nutrition ‘reboot’ in January to help you get back on track after festive feasting with lots of tips and insights on eating for health and vitality. So whether you want a short snappy half-day ‘reboot’ or a deeper, longer wallow in the season check out the Journey with the Seasons link at naturalfoodschool.co.uk or sjholistic. weebly.com.
Cancer Lifeline South West A local charity working to help you move forward following treatment.
We provide three-day residential breaks in the beautiful surroundings of Sharpham. Our breaks are designed to help you reflect on where you are now and how you want to move forward. With the support of Sharpham Trust, breaks are provided at no charge.
For information about our 2014 breaks call Jane on 01392 432984 www.cancer-lifeline.org or email: info@cancer-lifeline.org
34 34
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Hypnotherapy’s benefits HYPNOTHERAPIST Graham McDowell is quick to reassure clients that hypnosis does not involve him taking control of their mind.
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“It’s a popular misconception,” says Graham of The Focus Clinic. “No-one can hypnotise you against your will and no-one will swing a gold watch in front of you saying ‘look into my eyes!’
Advice and information packs are now available - targeted, user-friendly, and easily put into practise. A perfect place to start your natural health journey! Call with no obligation if you’d like to see how we can help.
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“Your subconscious mind will simply reject any suggestion that is inappropriate for you.” Solution-focused hypnotherapy is a combination of psychotherapy and hypnosis, he explains.
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Graham McDowell with his children and dog. “ordinary” hypnosis feels.
“The psychotherapy in itself is extremely beneficial and its effects are enhanced by the application of hypnosis, which enables the subconscious mind to make beneficial changes. “’Solution focused’ means that rather than reflecting on events that may be the cause of distress in your life, we focus only on creating the positive, life improving changes that you want!” Graham says clients often say how
“It’s not unlike daydreaming,” he says. “You can often hear everything being said while in a deeply relaxed state - in fact, you could think of it as guided daydreaming.” Graham runs The Focus Clinic in Chudleigh, just off the A38, and at Exeter Natural Health Centre in central Exeter. Call 01392 580885, email mrgrahammcdowell@gmail.com, and visit www.TheFocusClinic.info.
“If I‘d come on the workshop earlier it would have saved me a lot of heartache.”
Take charge of your health
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Psychotherapy Counselling & Supervision
with Lucia Capaldi (UKCP) BA Hons
Experienced and qualified psychotherapist currently offering: Confidential sessions for individuals and couples experiencing:
• Relationship difficulties • Anxiety • Depression • Low self-esteem • Addictions • Bereavement • Stress Events with Paul Hayward Making sense of our intimate relationships using journeying and meditation. Free Talk: Friday 17 Jan 2014 • 7.30 - 8.30pm Totnes Natural Health Centre Weekend Residential: 7 - 9 March 2014 Poulston Court, Herefordshire • From £249 Book now:
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Please get in touch to arrange a free initial meeting or for dates of upcoming workshops and groups
Bridge Farm Offices, Harberton, Totnes. Tel: 07809 441 519 or 01803 840424 luciacapaldi@yahoo.co.uk www.luciacapaldi-psychotherapy-devon.co.uk
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
35
Do you want to advertise in Wellbeing?
Holistic massage - another way to get back to presence SO many of us are caught up on the never-ending treadmill of daily life that the only time we rest is during a brief distraction rather than a purposeful move towards time off. With our attention so focused on short-term goals and distractions there can be little space left to take in, and respond to, all that is around and within us. This inability to respond to our surroundings and emotions can have all sorts of impacts on our wellbeing and our relationships with our world. Ailsa Lucas is an holistic massage practitioner who suggests we make a little more time for ourselves to let our awareness take in present surroundings, thoughts and emotions. She said: “When we connect with our sensory experience of our body and environment we become more aware
of what is and isn’t working well. We access aspects of our innate intelligence often lost in this extremely intellect-driven world and we create space to discover what really matters to us and how we need to respond.” According to Ailsa there are many different practices that can support us to find this kind of awareness throughout our daily lives - meditation, holistic massage and conscious dance being just three. She added: “I believe that whatever brings us back to presence is well worth prioritising because it feels nourishing and also because it helps us find our way to live with deeper care for ourselves and for our world.” Ailsa works at Ola Chiropractic Centre in Totnes. You can contact her on 01803 849039, 07999486059 or ails.clare.lucas@gmasil.com
Discover where you’re headed INDIGENOUS people the world over believe there are five essential stages within personal development that we all have to negotiate to reach fulfilment. You can experience all five when answering ‘The Call To Adventure’, a one day journey of self discovery run by Simon Blackler. Simon asks the questions: Are you lost and need direction? Do you wish to live a happier life and make a real difference in the world? Do you yearn for something more fulfilling? Have you heard that little voice inside of you whispering away to you, calling you to adventure? This Winter Solstice, at the time of Earth’s renewal, Simon is offering you the chance to turn your own life around by attending Set Your Spirit Free’s Transformation Day entitled ‘The Call To Adventure’ on Saturday December 21 from 9.30am-5.30pm in The South Wing of Sharpham House at Ashprington, near Totnes. Said Simon: “Give yourself the perfect Christmas present unwrapping the gift of your true self
Simon Blackler for all the world to see, discovering where you are truly headed in life.” The cost is £115 for corporate, £95 for individuals and £75 concessions. To book contact Simon Blackler on 01752 698703 or email simon@ setyourspiritfree.com. To find out more, visit www.setyourspiritfree. com/transformation.htm
Marie Oxley
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Winter beauty offer
Whole body massage with herbal scrub and facelift massage £50 (over 30% off) Plus 20% off all other treatments in December and January
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w w w. a l i at h e r apy. c o. u k 36
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New drop-in meditation class FOLLOWING hot on the heels of her popular meditation practitioner and teacher training courses, Thrivecraft’s Maggie Kay has launched a new weekly meditation class in Totnes. The Thrivecraft meditation drop-in class meets at 2.30pm on Fridays at the Totnes Natural Health Centre and welcomes experienced meditators and newcomers alike (£8/£5). Covering the four key Thrivecraft meditation topics - mindfulness, loving kindness, manifestation and inner wisdom - the friendly, easy-going Maggie Kay - new meditation class class provides guidance, The new class will be co-led support and practice. by Maggie and her team of And a good natter at tea break, accredited Thrivecraft meditation of course, says Maggie! teachers - including Reconnect’s Maggie Kay (formerly an ordained very own Martin Foster (see page Buddhist known as Srimati) has 30 41 for more on that). years’ experience of meditation And for more info see events and a much appreciated gift for calendar on page 42 or contact guiding it. Her sell-out guided Maggie on 07905 628905 or at meditation CD, Revelation, is still www.maggiekaywisdom.com. available on mp3.
ICAN Counselling and Psychotherapy
You don’t need to suffer alone Andrea Nemcova
One to One Workshops Voice Development Singing your heart home visit www.thesingingpath.com or call Sarah on 01364 621227
Deep and sensitive massage to ease tensions and help you relax deeply … To nourish yourself, care for your precious body, and expand the wellbeing throughout your life … If you choose, we can also work together through massage … to help you find more awareness in your body, to allow you fuller access to your inner wisdom, or to open to feelings or aspects of yourself which are ready to emerge …
1¼hr introductory massage session £35 £25
On a Friday. Bring this voucher to your session. Reductions for block bookings also possible.
Ailsa Lucas - Holistic Massage MTI, Dip Couns, BSc (Hons)
Ola Chiropractic Centre, Totnes 01803 849039 - 07999 486059 - ailsa.clare.lucas@gmail.com
O n l i n e L e a r n i n g i n yo u r H o m e L e ve l 3 D i p l o m a i n A n a t o m y P hy s i o l o g y & Pa t h o l o g y
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Study this Unit on its own or as part of the ITEC Body Massage, Reflexology or Aromatherapy Diploma
Pay & Start Today Ring us on 01392 826033 Devon Academy, Basepoint Business Centre Yeoford Way, Marsh Barton, Exeter, EX2 8LB www.devonacademy.co.uk Tel: 01392 826033 Email: info@devonacademy.co.uk
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You can still read Wellbeing stories in past Reconnects... Handmade, Herbal, Vegan, Natural, and Eco-friendly, Body Care Products • Natural toothpaste • Luxury face and hand creams • Pure vegetable soaps and much more.... We use plant-based ingredients only. No synthetic colours, fragrances or preservatives just pure essential oils, natural clays, plant oils and waxes. See websites for product ordering information, and details on workshops, herb walks and events. Hand-made with care by medical herbalist Dawn Ireland www.torbay-herbalist.co.uk www.greenwyse.co.uk info@greenwyse.co.uk - 07962 664294
2013-14 Passionate Presence events with
Katheryn Trenshaw
“The Earth delights to feel your bare feet.” - K Gibran
Sessions rooted in expressive arts and movement of being work. Come move, splash about with colour/word/connection and reveal your heart’s desire. One-to-one and group sessions in Totnes and London via Skype and internationally In Your Own Skin Sourcing continues www.inyourownskin.org
01803 863552 • info@ktrenshaw.com www.passionatepresence.org
MEDITATION PYRAMID Buddha Maitreya Ascension Meditation Pyramid available for meditation sessions in tranquil surroundings near Totnes
Call 01803 868676
or email Soul2massage@gmail.com Soul2massage.wordpress.com 38
Lasting effect of subtle massage Ayurveda was YOU might think you know about developed in India. massage, but have Treatments can be you experienced used to relieve the an Ayurvedic symptoms of many treatment? common illnesses and are also very It’s more subtle effective as antithan deep tissue ageing therapies, massage, says keeping the skin therapist Marie looking young and Oxley, but healthy by helping what it lacks in it to retain moisture pulverising elbows and improving it makes up for in muscle tone. lasting effect. Says Marie: “I’m Marie Oxley “The whole body currently running is first covered a Winter beauty offer – a whole in warm oil and then I work in a body massage with herbal scrub flowing motion, paying particular and facelift massage for just £50. attention to any muscular problems That’s a saving of over 30%.” and easing the pain out working with the body’s energy points,” Marie is based at the Totnes says Marie. Natural Health Centre. Call her on 07834 354151 or email marie@ “I also offer many other traditional aliatherapy.co.uk. Visit www. Ayurvedic treatments for all areas aliatherapy.co.uk. of the body, from face to feet.”
Benefits for asthma sufferers And that, say A REPORT funded by chiropractors the Australian Spinal Catherine Crane and Research Foundation Sarah Whitaker of suggests there may Align Chiropractic in be a link between Newton Abbot and chiropractic and the Exeter, is a scientific reduction of asthma way of suggesting symptoms. that reducing According to nervous system stress Macquarie University with chiropractic researcher Dr Ray adjustments may Hayek, the study have a positive effect involved hundreds of on those susceptible people suffering with to asthma attacks. asthma symptoms. Catherine and Sarah Catherine Crane “When an asthma see many patients sufferer is under the with symptoms anxiety of a looming asthma attack, associated with asthma through the the levels of the hormone cortisol cold and damp winter months. increase,” he says. “We have seen a great improvement “This acute increase in cortisol and some patients have even through a number of mechanisms reported using less medication,” said can bring on an asthma attack. Sarah. Levels of the stress hormone cortisol To find out how chiropractic could steadily decreased during the trial, help you, call 01803 814329 or visit and levels of immunological markers www.alignyourhealth.co.uk. (immunoglobulin A) steadily rose.”
Successful private practice. Build confidence in marketing yourself ethically, including: l Through the Client’s Eyes l Safe Social Media l No to Networking l Advertising - the Where, the How, the Scams l Speaking and Writing your Truth l Selling without the Pitch
Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk
Cathy Towers BACP Senior Accredited Practitioner
01395 278437 07989 564660 Exeter Mind & Body Clinic, Choristers House, Chapel Street, Exeter EX1 1AJ Clinic: www.exetermindandbody.com Therapy: www.cathytowers.com cpD Training: www.cpdfortherapists.co.uk
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Centre offers sandplay training SANDPLAY has joined other areas of creativity such as art, music and visualisation as important tools in the work of counsellors and psychotherapists. All feature in courses at the Dartmoor Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy in Sandplay - intutitive and tactile. Newton Abbot. The centre now has powerfully sensorial experience, a dedicated Sandplay Room and intuitive and tactile.” many therapists in the South West, The next 10-day diploma in who have successfully trained with sandplay begins in January. centre director Ken Rabone, have “It’s a highly experiential interactive integrated Sandplay into their course that will provide skills in personal therapeutic modality. helping clients develop resilience Ken explained that sandplay is an and emotional fluency,” said Ken. holistic approach to counselling. Participants will have the experience He said: “By using symbolic objects of following their own personal that represent all aspects of life, the growth journey using sandplay client will clearly display their inner at each workshop. The course is world. It is a deep process which extensively supported by resources shows the client what underlies that enhance skills for working with the current situation that they are symbols. presenting. For details of all courses, “Sandplay allows a depth of including the January Advanced Diploma Counselling, the movement within the client that is professional qualification for profound. It identifies unspoken practice, see the website www. issues and brings solutions. safespaceforcounselling.com or call While talk is a component part Ken Rabone on 07801 248421. of sandplay, the process is a
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Ruth Baker counselling and psychotherapy
Call now 07736334454 ruthbaker1@gmail.com
ruthbakerpsychotherapy.co.uk
Ruth Baker BSc Hons Psychology, MA, Dip SW, Adv Dip Couns, Dip Supervision Integrative Psychotherapist • Counsellor • Supervisor & Mentor • Coach & Consultant Areas: Exeter, Totnes, Torquay, Teignmouth, Newton Abbot, Plymouth Individuals, Couples and Groups • Mindfulness Courses
Give yourself the perfect Christmas present!
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Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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In praise of pregnancy massage
A mirror in which to see yourself more clearly Experienced psychotherapist and counsellor for individuals and couples
A collaboration in which your experience is honoured and explored, allowing you to relax into a sense of safety and wholeness beyond any struggles or challenges. Hélène Demetriades MBACP Senior Accredited Dartington, Totnes info@helenedemetriades.co.uk www.helenedemetriades.co.uk
01803 868655
Issues may include: depression, bereavement, trauma, anxiety, selfesteem, parenting, relationships, illness, purpose and life direction. I also offer supervision to both trainees and experienced therapists.
sensitivity, kindness, and calm, combined with “ Hélène’s her non-judgemental insight have enabled me to make immensely significant and positive personal changes. ” THE GENTLE BUT POWERFUL METAMORPHIC TECHNIQUE IS ALSO AVAILABLE.
HOLISTIC massage therapist Kia Lucas is on a mission. Kia is trained, experienced and practices in all areas of massage but is particularly keen to spread the word about the virtues of pregnancy massage. “Pregnancy massage is a wonderful way to support a mum-tobe’s emotional and physical wellbeing, but some are worried that it might not be safe,” says Kia. “I want to assure them that providing the therapist is trained and experienced, it can be safe throughout Kia Lucas - keen to spread the word. all trimesters, and perfect for a body and physically,” she says. “I then that’s making changes to nurture a work intuitively, using a variety of new life within it.” techniques and strokes drawn from Kia also works in Holistic Massage, the wide range of traditions I have drawing elements into her studied.” work from studies in Ayurvedic “Massage doesn’t need to hurt to be effective. I like to create a Massage, Mayan Neurosacral and comfortable, calm space for you to Naturopathic Massage therapies, feel safe to relax and unwind in.” but prides herself on finding the Kia is currently practising in and right treatment for every client. around the Totnes area. “Each treatment begins with a Visit www.kialucas.co.uk, call 07799 consultation to establish how 248737, email kialucas@mail.com. you are feeling both emotionally
THE WATERLOO WELLBEING CENTRE 191 Devonport Road, Stoke, Plymouth PL1 5RN Tel: 01752 560002 info@psychotherapyplymouth.co.uk For more information visit: www.psychotherapyplymouth.co.uk
Providing Counselling, Psychotherapy, and training in our community 40
Warm Wishes for a Mindful Christmas from all of us at Waterloo Wellbeing Centre Gift vouchers available for Mindfulness Workshop & Courses, Acupuncture, Aromatherapy & Reflexology.
“Simplicity, Patience & Compassion. These are your three greatest treasures.” Lao Tzu
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Living on less... Are you sitting comfortably? AS regular readers will know, this page is built on the premise that if we live a less material life, we can devote more of our time to doing what we truly love, rather than working every last hour just to meet the credit card payments. And if you’re looking at finding just a little more time for yourself, there’s one thing I believe is worth building into every lifestyle – meditation. I should warn you I have become more than a little evangelical about meditation. Although I seem to be surrounded by friends who have been meditating since they backpacked across India in the Eighties, I have only in recent years discovered the deep and powerful effects of daily meditation. The practice has been subjected to loads of medical research and even Dr Doubting Thomas has to admit a regular session increases our ability to handle stress, helps reduce pain and increase our ability to cope with it, lowers our blood pressure, improves our focus and memory and genrally makes us more empathetic, compassionate and fufilled people. Yes, if meditation was a drug the big pharma companies would want some big bucks for this one. Personally, meditation has helped me through some of those darker times (oh come on, I’m not the only one who’s been there) and has played a huge part in helping me realise, and appreciate, what really matters to me. In fact, so moved have I been by its virtues that I have completed a
WHATEVER you do, don’t ask him about meditation. He’s completely sold on it. Says it’s changed his life. He’s even taken a meditation teachers’ course. Why? Oh no, now you’ve got him started...
Equipment required... meditation teacher’s training course and hope to run classes… well, sometime in the future (ok, a little vague, but I have got a magazine to get out too). What’s moved me to consider actually teaching it is the fact that I get such a positive response from anyone I discuss it with – and no, I don’t know THAT many good actors. Those who have never done it before, seem to want to know more (read on); those who’ve tried and given up because they “didn’t get it” want to know where they “went wrong” (you didn’t – read on); and even the experienced admit they don’t do it nearly as often as they’d like (you read on too – you might just be inspired). So, what is meditation? When I talk about meditation I mean the non-religious technique that
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teaches us to be fully present in the current moment, rather than being preoccupied by thoughts of the past or the future - as we usually are. It returns us to our default position. Without any of those ‘oh I really should have…’ worries. None of those ‘but what if…’ doubts. Just you, sitting on a chair, being. Not being anything, just being. Feeling good already, isn’t it? But wait, what was that? Sitting in a chair? You mean you don’t have to contort yourself into a perfect lotus position in order to reach a place of peace? Well, you can if you want (and if you can), of course, and you have my undying admiration if you can, but my old knees just won’t do it and it’s really not what’s important. Sitting in an upright chair is fine - just make sure your feet are planted firmly on the floor. What IS important, I’ve found, is doing it regularly. Meditating is a skill, and like all skills you get better the more you do it, so set aside some time each day. I prefer to sit at roughly the same time because otherwise I ‘forget’ or just don’t get round to it. For me, the morning is best (it’s a great, positive and even slightly selfindulgant way to start the day), and I usually sit for half an hour. I use the timer on my phone although fancy ‘meditation timers’ are available. Finding a good place is important too. Again, being a creature of habit (good and bad), I sit in the same place most days and although some people prefer a dedicated corner, or even room, with maybe a candle or a bunch of flowers, I just sit on a dining chair in our living
room (it’s early remember, so even the dogs are still in bed). My one luxury is a sheepskin which I drape over the chair first. And that brings us to the meditation itself. I don’t want to describe it in great detail here because there isn’t enough space and I believe that, as simple as the basic principles are, reading a ‘how-to’ is not the best introduction to something that could change your life. Suffice to say that the basic practice I would recommend to newcomers involves nothing more mystical than breathing, becoming aware of how your body is feeling, breathing, becoming aware of what your senses are picking up, breathing and... did I mention breathing? If you want to give it a go, or if you’ve already got into it and just want to do it on a more regular basis, there are numerous videos to watch online, including slightly gimmicky (with introductory animations) but very good 10 minutes a day guided meditations from www.getsomeheadspace. com and a complete range of wonderfully rich and enriching videos produced by my friend and teacher Maggie Kay (put ‘meditation maggie kay’ in YouTube). But I believe the very best way of getting into meditation is at a class and now seems as good a time as any to mention a new class at the Totnes Natural Health Centre in Totnes (2.30pm on Fridays - see www.maggiekaywisdom.com) led by... yes, Maggie Kay. And, as it happens, and just occasionally, by me. See you there?
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Contact us now advertise in Wellbeing... You can read pasttoLiving on Less columns in our online archive...
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WORKSHOPS& COURSESDIARY To advertise your workshops or courses here, simply email us the words, along with your name, address and phone number and we will invoice you. The cost is just 90p a word, with a minimum of 20 words. Email adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk, or call Pete on 01395 270157. DECEMBER Every Friday
QIGONG at St Johns Church Hall, Totnes with Brad Richecoeur, 10-11.30am. Suitable for all levels, new students welcome. 01364 644040 www. qigong-southwest.co.uk THRIVECRAFT meditation class with Maggie Kay and Thrivecraft team. Every Friday 2.30-5.00. Drop in. Experienced / newcomers - all welcome. Totnes Natural Health Centre. Teaching, practice, support, two meditations & tea break. £8/£5. Every Tuesday
QIGONG at Exeter Mint Methodist Church, with Brad Richecoeur, 5.30-7pm. Suitable for all levels, new students welcome. 01364 644040 www. qigong-southwest.co.uk Every Thursday
THE COACHING CLUB. Lost and need direction? Start to turn your life around! Ivybridge Community Hub, 7– 9pm. £15 (discounts and concessions available). Contact Simon 01752 698703 or simon@ setyourspiritfree.com FRI 6 – SUN 8
REPOSE: Meditation & 5 Rhythms winter warmer residential with Thrivecraft’s Maggie Kay & 5 Rhythms Jane Belshaw. Monkton Wylde, Dorset. £299 (all inclusive). www. maggiekaywisdom.com 07905 628905. Saturday 7
MEN’S CIRCLE. A Conversation With Nature discussing man’s 21st century role. Meet Old Craft Building, Dartington, 10.30am -12.30pm.
Donations welcome. Contact Simon 01752 698703 or simon@ setyourspiritfree.com Sat 7 - Sun 8
METAMORPHIC TECHNIQUE two-day workshop with Hélène Demetriades. At Dartington. 10am 5pm each day. Suitable for beginners and those wanting to train as practitioners. www. helenedemetriades. co.uk or phone: 01803 868655
Thursday 16
BUDDHISM & MEDITATION. Introductory Course with Vidyadasi at Exeter Natural Health Centre. Six Thursdays Jan 16 – Feb 20, 7.30pm. £45/£30 low-income. Twelve places. Practical, hands-on, friendly, lots of space for questions. Please email Vidyadasi to book: jess.vidya@ gmail.com. See www. triratnadevon.org for more info. Tuesday 21
FREE Detox & Holistic Weight-loss info www. exetermindandbody. com Jacqueline 07850 008133.
Saturday 21
Saturday 25
REAL HEALTH Workshop. Through talks, demonstrations and practical sessions learn how to eat properly and exercise effectively to achieve and maintain your perfect weight and optimum health. Carlton Hotel, Torquay. www. realhealthuk@weebly. com Karen: 07599 619914
Every Friday
QIGONG at St Johns Church Hall, Totnes with Brad Richecoeur, 10-11.30am. Suitable for all levels, new students welcome. 01364 644040 www. qigong-southwest.co.uk Every Tuesday
QIGONG at Exeter Mint Methodist Church, with Brad Richecoeur, 5.30-7pm. Suitable for all levels, new students welcome. 01364 644040 www. qigong-southwest.co.uk Every Thursday
THE COACHING CLUB. Lost and need direction? Start to turn your life around! Ivybridge Community Hub, 7pm – 9pm. £15 (Discounts and concessions available) Contact Simon 01752 698703 or simon@ setyourspiritfree.com Sunday 5
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THE CALL TO ADVENTURE. Transform your life in just one day. Sharpham House 9.30am – 5.30pm. Price: £115 Corporate / £95 Individual / £75 Concessions. Contact Simon 01752 698703 or simon@ setyourspiritfree.com JANUARY
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THRIVECRAFT group coaching day Boosting business in 2014 with Maggie Kay. (Business coaching weekends follow in Feb and Mar). Royal 7 Stars Hotel. Totnes. £75 incl lunch. www. maggiekaywisdom.com 07905 628905. Sunday 26
QIGONG workshop with Brad Richecoeur, at South Brent Village Hall, South Devon. 10am-5pm. Suitable for all levels, new students welcome. 01364 644040 www. qigong-southwest.co.uk
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