The good living and community magazine for Exeter, Plymouth and across South Devon OCT/NOV 17 ISSUE 51
produce k energy k land k homes k community k wellbeing k arts
an autumnal celebration
Pleas e tak e one
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Raise your spirits and warm your soul
lighting your way South Devon’s seasonal wellbeing
music from the heart Our unique diary pages of events
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Upfront IT'SWHATWE'REABOUT
Broughttoyou by...
IN THISISSUE... BARN OWLS
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A trust for the birds EDITOR Scott Williams
GOING OUT 11
Essential events guide
ORGANIC GARDENING14 EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Karen Williams
Autumnal undertakings
CELEBRATING APPLES 17 Apple days abound
PLANT BASED DIETS 18 WELLBEING EDITOR Kate Philbin
Balanced for health
ECO INSPIRATIONS 22
Eco & community homes
COUNSELLOR WRITER Leigh Smith
DEVON’S ON SONG 25 Community choirs
Apple days - page 17
REWILD THE CHILD 26 The primal nature of kids
WELLBEING
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Our natural health pages
EMOTIONAL HEALTH 30 Support groups help
AUTUMNAL CHANGE 35
WELCOME... ...to the October/November issue. It’s been a whole year since I decided to first enquire about taking over in the driving seat, after leaving Festival-land, and I hope I’ve kept it on track. It’s been a delight putting this issue together, which has by chance (just as Martin said it would) developed it’s own theme. As the nights draw in and the fires are lit, it seems that Reconnect has its own cosy, autumnal feel. We have features on singing and apple days, and Mike Jones’ article on children and nature. We have news, just over the page, about regular columnists the Callanders (from Green Funeral Company), which also seems strangely apt around this time of Samhain/All Hallows’ Eve. Oh and that Mr Foster (former editor of this parish) has high-welfare meat for sale, in time for Christmas, from his new venture - Tigley Tump. Talking of which, we’re currently working on our Festive/New Year issue (yes, already), and if you want to be in it, don’t forget to get in touch. Call me now on 01392 346342.
Scott x
COVERSTORY... The good living and community magazine for Exeter, Plymouth and across South Devon OCT/NOV 17 ISSUE 51
produce k energy k land k homes k community k wellbeing k arts
an autumnal celebration
Please take one
FREE !
Raise your spirits and warm your soul
At Iron Mill
THE UNTAMED SELF 37
lighting your way
WATER’S MESSAGE 44
music from the heart
South Devon’s seasonal wellbeing
Reconnecting your spirit FEATURES WRITER Jon Stein
A new world emerging South Devon permaculture - page 23
FOOD WRITER Jane Hutton
WEBSITE EDITORS www.doetsdesign.com
TECHNICAL AIDE Zelah Williams
STAY IN TOUCH...
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Our unique diary pages of events
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Editorial: 01392 346342 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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news&views Yoga marathon
DONNA McCheyne is organising a 24-hour non-stop marathon yoga event, to raise funds for an educational charity in India called PETE (Providing Education To Everyone). The event will take place at The Hen House, Kingsbridge from noon on Saturday October 21. There will be a total of 24 yoga classes to choose from over the course of the event, with prices ranging between £7 and £10 per class. Attendees can choose a single class or opt for a package of 2, 6 or 12 sessions. If you’re up for a real challenge, you can purchase a ticket to attend all 24 classes!
New Library of Things
BORROW Don’t Buy is a community project running a crowdfunding campaign to open Plymouth’s first Library of Things. A library of things is a great opportunity to benefit from a huge variety of items without worrying about clutter or expense, while reducing your carbon footprint. They believe everyone should have access to the stuff we need without it costing the earth. Please help to make it happen www.crowdfunder.co.uk/ borrowdontbuy
OCD and anxiety S.E.E.D.S Dance Company come to the Cygnet Theatre to present Chapters of Diagnosis on October 26. A story exploring the reality of what living with anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is really like. Told through movement, narrated by illustrated projection and featuring an original score. Ticket £7, box office 01392 277189/665885
Immortalised in
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EADERS to Reconnect will probably by now be overfamiliar with my pontifications around life and death. It’s hard not to when you do the work we do. I hope that the often serious tone and topics don’t bring people down, I am very aware of the privilege of being able to share with you all these existential musings. Believe me, if they have helped you in the reading, they’ve helped me more in the writing. Sharing my fears and my hopes really helps on a day to day basis. But this month is a little different, for we have a new arm to our business. Related, but very different. I hope you’re sitting down. We have gone into partnership with The Justified Ancients of Mu Mu, aka The JAM’s, aka The KLF, aka Jimmy Cauty, late of this parish (Totnes), and Bill Drummond. Yes, they were hugely successful pop stars in the 90’s, yes, they have been provocative and mercurial artists. And yes, they burnt a million quid of their own earnings and deleted their back catalogue thus freeing themselves from the trappings of pop stardom. They have also long harboured an obsession with pyramids. At their asking, we have become Callender, Callender, Cauty & Drummond, Undertakers to the Underworld, charged with facilitating what is termed “MuMufication.” The conceit is this. You buy an unfired Brick, marked Mu Mu, with a small hole in the centre. You receive a certificate of authenticity signed and stamped by The JAM’s. When you die, you are cremated with whatever ceremony you require, then a small portion of your ashes, 23 grams to be precise, a number that recurs in their work, is sent with The Brick to a factory where it is fired. What you do with the rest is up to your family. Then on November 23 each year, since declared The Toxteth Day of the Dead, yes, Toxteth in Liverpool, Jung’s “Pool of life”, the recently MuMufied will be ceremonially
Regular contributor The Green Funeral Company’s RUPERT CALLENDER has news of a new timely partnership. laid in The People’s Pyramid: 23 ft high, 23 steps and using 34,592 Mu Mu bricks. We all imagine being long dead and MuMufied before the last Brick is lain down, and who knows what ceremonies and rituals will have sprung up around the pyramid by then. That is the beauty of lighting myth’s fuse; the colours and reverberations that will illuminate the future are yet undreamed of. So that’s it. We will still continue to do what we do, be small town undertakers covering Devon and Cornwall, with a bent towards the eccentric, stubborn in our intention to give you the funeral you need, which often contrasts with what you think you need. But..if immortalisation in a sharp pointed Pyramid appeals, then go to www. MuMufication.com. We’re excited.
Acoustic Haven returns
THIS year Acoustic Haven is set to shift gear and metamorphose into something new. It will still feature top-quality live music, plus the comfort, intimacy and unique atmosphere which Acoustic Haven is loved for... but also the opportunity to dance up a sweat with a silent disco. So much fun! Enough lazing on pillows... grab your dancing shoes and Get Down. The first Acoustic Haven Raven will be at St. John’s Church, Friday October 27, then November 24, and the last Friday of each month into the new year... 6.30pm to 11pm. See www.acoustichaven.co.uk and tickets on the door.
Refugee yurt Makers of the yurt for refugees built at La Burra Verde in March (see Reconnect issue 47) are trying to raise the money to pay for transport costs to take it to a refugee camp in Lesbos, Greece. Toby Fairlove wants to ensure it gets there safely and to be able to explain exactly how to assemble and disassemble it so that it will last for many years. To donate go to www. crowdfunder.co.uk/therefugee-yurt
Specially proud of Pride Displaying the curious world of animal craft
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HE fifth Totnes Pride saw an estimated 1500 people coming together to celebrate the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex &/or asexual+ (LGBTQIA+) community. Organisers of the country’s largest rural Pride event, Proud2Be, laid on a whole host of events in the town. Max Price, co-founder of Proud2Be, described Totnes Pride 2017 as being “a very special day”. “We are thrilled with the wonderful feedback we have received so far about this year’s Totnes Pride, with many people commenting on how inclusive, diverse and welcoming the event was.” He said: “A small team of dedicated volunteers work tirelessly throughout the year to ensure Totnes Pride is an event we can all be proud of. We would like to thank them and all the Pride volunteers, funders, sponsors, supporters, guests, attendees and performers- without whom, none of it would be possible.” To find out more about Proud2Be and to get involved in future events please email info@ proud2be.co.uk or go to proud2be.co.uk.
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OVEY Tracey’s Devon Guild of Craftsmen currently has what we think is an apt exhibition for the time of all hallows. On display until November 5 is ‘Dead on Arrival’, showcasing the works of 10 artists whose practice involves the use of ethically sourced animal remains (natural causes or roadkill) to produce works of jewellery, sculpture, textiles, taxidermy and photography. Their eye grabbing experiments and processes see materials from nature painstakingly re-formed not just to decorate and adorn as they have been for millennia - but to make you think too. They’re part of a current ‘DIY revolution’ which - from Grayson Perry to yarn-bombing – expresses a backlash against consumerism and technological development. Goldsmiths graduate and Teignmouth based sculptor Janec van Veen is both a social
critic and storyteller. He creates surreally manipulated mythical creatures using upcycled objects seamlessly blended with his own detailed models. Similarly, Fiona Dean’s humorous specimens apply traditional stretching and sewing methods to create unusual tableaux of animals and objects. Plymouth Art College graduate Stevie Leigh-Smith makes ‘dark bohemian jewellery’ from electroforming and casting found antlers and roadside bones. Silvy Weatherall assembles mandalas from discarded game feathers and shells. Showcased alongside them to show humans have collected and preserved natural history are historical artefacts from Plymouth museum. The exhibition has free entry and is open daily 10am-5.30pm, see www.crafts.org.uk. l Following the theme the Guild’s free half-term events include Day of The Dead themed activity days on October 25-26.
Above: Janec van Veen: Chromo - mixed media taxidermy sculpture. Below: Fiona Dean: Popping Out - taxidermy sculpture
NEWS&views Jade inspires Devon children to believe in themselves
Resilient woods
PLANTLIFE’s Building Resilient Woodlands in the South West project to save and protect the ancient trees and coastal woodlands has been backed by the Heritage Lottery Fund. They’ll carry out essential woodland conservation work that will help to protect some of our most rare and threatened lower plants (lichens, mosses and liverworts) and make them more resilient in the face of climate change, air pollution and tree diseases including ash dieback. Plantlife will be working in partnership with the National Trust, Exmoor National Park, Dartmoor National Park, Cornwall AONB, Devon Biodiversity Records Centre, British Lichen Society, Woodland Trust, Natural England, and more.
Fixed for free
EXETER Repair Cafe returns to St Sidwell’s Community Centre on October 21 and November 18 offering refreshments whilst you get those broken household items mended free of charge.
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EGULAR readers will be aware that friend of Reconnect Katheryn Trenshaw - active, living, working and creating in our community for many years - is weathering hard cancer challenges. Her friends are organising a gig in support of the vital integrated medical care and treatment (beyond what NHS can provide) for her complex cancer condition and its ongoing complications. The community fundraiser, ‘Music from the Heart’, will take place on Sunday October 22 from 3.305.30pm at St. John’s Church in Totnes. Donations at the door (suggested £10 - £20). The event will feature two sets from renowned US soul, funk, jazz duo - singer/ guitarist Steph Johnson and double-bassist Rob Thorsen. Singer Steph works with the
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Homeless Choir in San Diego, and whilst here will also be conducting in collaboration with SING DEVON at the Civic Hall in Totnes in December to raise funds for refugees via Beyond Borders. Katheryn said: “I am so very grateful. Basically, I have a couple of friends who are two top American jazz musicians coming over to visit me... in the middle of their honeymoon which is very sweet and they’ve offered to do a fundraising concert for my cancer care. Its SUCH a great opportunity to get to marinade and even dance to top international musical talent in twee Totnes. The glass is definitely half full. Let’s dance“ There will be gifts for sale, teas and cakes in the interval as well as a raffle at the Bridgetown church space with fantastic acoustics. Volunteers are needed to help with the event. Contact Pete: 07896 276577 if you’re able to help.
HIRTEEN year old Jade Sutton from Totnes, the current ‘Little Miss Teen Devon’, overcame severe anxiety and depression whilst at primary school, and is aiming to become a role model for primary school children. Jade will speak at 50 South Devon primary schools, inspiring them to believe in themselves and follow their dreams at an assembly called ‘Believe in Yourself & follow Your Dreams’. Jade has ADHD and struggled whilst at primary school. During year 5 and 6 she suffered from extreme anxiety and became deeply depressed. Her family supported her to enter her first beauty pageant two years ago, hoping it may help her build back confidence and self-esteem. This was the first step for Jade in overcoming depression. Jade said: “Focusing on a positive goal and seeing that I can make a difference in the world is what brought me back!” Jade added: “I know that some kids find it really hard at school, like I did. If my story can help even just one child to believe in themselves more, then it has been well worth it.”
The South Hams’ biggest arts trail
THIS year the SHAF (South Hams Arts Forum) Arts Trail will be the biggest yet, hosting the largest ever number of artists. It’s now so big that for the first time this year the trail will run over a two week period - from October 14 - 29. Artists will be showcasing diverse disciplines such as painting, ceramics, sculpture, photography, textiles, jewellery, printing, wood turning and more. Visitors will be welcome to their venues right across the South Hams region. The SHAF brochure lists all the details of participating artists and venues, and has been available since September at many outlets across the South Hams. l Find out more at www.shaf.org.uk or follow the South Hams Arts Forum on Facebook.
Editorial: 01392 346342 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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news&views Winter fuel
CHARITY Hannahs at SealeHayne is selling logs as part of their social enterprise, run by Hannahs staff assisted by guests with disabilities and volunteers. Hannahs Head of Social Enterprise, Nigel Cotterill, said “The log enterprise gives guests a sense of worth as they can contribute towards the income for Hannahs. They are also working as part of a team and are able to enjoy the camaraderie.” Log prices: £70 per cubic metre delivery / £3 per net or £10 for 4 nets. For more information call 07475 491786 or email nigel. cotterill@discoverhannahs.org
Tutor award
THE Devon School of Reflexology Principal, Sarah Jane Holt, has won the Inspirational Tutor of the Year Award for a second time. She runs regular courses at both the Exeter Natural Health Centre and the Totnes Natural Health centre. Sarah said: “Being voted the Inspirational Tutor of the year yet again in 2017 is amazing as we are such a small school but have to thank all the fantastic students we have on our courses that makes teaching Reflexology so interesting and rewarding.”
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Network of suicide prevention
Embercombe plans for future
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mbercombe founder Mac Macartney has announced that whilst the charity has been going through a few changes, he’d like to reassure people that they’re now in an improving financial position and have courses planned for next year. Mac stated: “We have been sailing through choppy financial waters here over the last year. There has been lots of change and no doubt this will continue for a while, but we are busy coordinating our programme schedule for next year and have lost none of our commitment, verve, passion and enthusiasm for the vision that originally inspired Embercombe’s early beginnings in 1999. We are now taking
bookings for our wonderful programmes in Spring 2018.” Mac added: “And while we navigate these choppy waters, we see light breaking through the clouds for Embercombe. These include a ‘sold out’ Journey programme arriving in the next fortnight and a fully booked Descent in September. We are currently busy with the wonderful Lifebeat summer camp which offers us inspiration and hope for the future. We also are in a stronger financial position than we have been for a long time... although our work continues.” Reconnect will have more on Embercombe next issue, and for more details on their courses for 2018 visit embercombe.org
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‘TAKE a minute, change a life’ was the slogan for this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10. But, how many of us are aware of the issues that surround suicide? And what can we do about it? According to the World Health Organisation, more than 800,000 people die each year by suicide. It is the biggest killer of young people – males and females – under 35 in the UK Nationally there were 6,639 suicides in the UK and Republic of Ireland in 2015, as reported by the Samaritans. This equates to more than 550 per month, or upwards of 18 per day. Compare the statistics on road traffic accidents and it’s easy to see the extent of the problem. In 2015, the entire number of people killed on the UK’s roads was 1740. The number of young people who took their own lives was 1,659. Here in Devon and Torbay, the number of suicides is approximately 140 per year. Chukumeka (Chukes) Maxwell is a member of the Devon and Torbay Suicide Prevention Alliance (DTSPA)and founder of Suicide Safer Communities CIC. He said: “The Suicide Prevention Alliance consists of organisations and people interested in preventing suicide. We will be launching a crowd funding initiative for residents across Devon and Torbay to train a network of suicide prevention ambassadors in all districts and wards of the county. We’ll also be launching a website. Suicide is everybody’s business, so keep an eye and an ear out and see what you can do to support us and help make Devon and Torbay a Suicide Safer Community.” For more information email info@OrchidCommunity. net and see www.talkaboutsuicide.com
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NEWS&views
The Steward Woodland Community by photographer David Spero
New impact report highlights REconomy accomplishments
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Steward Community Woodland bows out STEWARD Community Woodland — the low impact living and working demonstration that has been a great success for the last 17 years is transforming.
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HE site, which has been the inspiration for thousands of visitors over the years, must come to an end due to the unfavourable outcome of their latest planning application. The community have had to make a decision as to how best to use their land at Steward Wood. They have come up with a possibility which may allow them to continue living in a low impact way on the land and provide a valuable asset to innovative future technology development, continuing to educate, inspire, provide courses and share their experience. Their idea is ‘Dartmoor Roundhouse Innovation Centre’, a living museum type project that will demonstrate low impact living on the land through the ages — from living in roundhouses in the Bronze Age, like those that can still be seen on Dartmoor, to living in roundhouses today. The early details of the project were still being worked on when community members spoke about it at Exeter’s Off Grid Festival. But it could consist of low impact workers’ dwellings, and a Bronze Age Roundhouse reconstruction as a venue for workshops. Spokesman Daniel ThompsonMills said: “We can learn from our ancestors, with the project demonstrating living gently on the land, taking inspiration from traditions and technologies through the ages. Designed using the tools and principles of permaculture, it would provide a venue for the
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woodland residents and others to run courses on, and demonstrate appropriate future technologies.” Dartmoor Roundhouse Innovation Centre need help to make their project succeed, and are looking for people to help with skills, assistance and resources. From fundraisers to PR & marketing, business planners, to a project manager to oversee the project. They’re seeking expert advisors and consultants in legal, planning, historical, conservation, and woodland management. The project needs funding, and start-up
working space and incubator has been serving local entrepreneurs, some of which have pitched at the Local Entrepreneur Forum. The Centre hosted 16 workshops last year, on a range of topics. Members contribute about £10,000 per year with local shops. The Local Economic Blueprint has spawned two local projects: the Totnes10, which puts on the Forking Local Food Festival; and Caring Town Totnes, a network of local social and health care providers. What’s next? Watch this space, Reconnect will bring you updates on their plans in the future. Readers can always get involved and help propel this great success story forward. A copy of the report can be downloaded at www.reconomycentre.org
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ECOLOGY • ARTS • ETHICAL LIVING
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The Resurgence Trust is a charity with a mission to educate, inform and inspire thinking for a better world. We host annual events and publish Resurgence & Ecologist magazine.
Carolyn Hillyer’s neolithic roundhouse on Dartmoor gives readers an idea of these Bronze Age dwellings.
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finance as well as other resources including building materials, access improvement materials, fencing, signage and much more. Once the project takes off they will need tutors and course leaders. l If you feel you are able to help in any way contact them at community@stewardwood.org or call 01647 440233. For more information see www.stewardwood.org
UTHOR David Spero has documented the Steward Community and gives an intimate insight into alternative lifestyles and low-impact living in the UK in his new book ‘Settlements’. Settlements’ prominently features two innovative low-impact alternative communities in Devon. Landmatters near Dartmouth and Steward Community Woodland in Dartmoor National Park. In addition to these the book includes a number of other communities in England and Wales.
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egular readers will know the Totnes REconomy Project was started modestly in 2011 by a group of citizens concerned about the state of the local economy and the lack of meaningful employment for the young people of the community. Since then, it has gone on to develop several projects in Totnes. They’ve just undertaken an impact report measuring the positive impacts of the Local Entrepreneur Forum, REconomy Centre and Local Economic Blueprint. The aim of the report is to see what has been accomplished, after 6 years. The report highlights that there have been some positive developments. The Local Entrepreneur Forum has helped 27 local enterprises raise over £85,000, collect community support worth another £20,000, and create over 5 new full time equivalent jobs. These enterprises now contribute £1.3million for the local economy, most of which is spent on local payroll and suppliers. The REconomy Centre, which is supported in part by South Hams District Council, has made contributions as well. The co-
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news&views Apple day
COCKINGTON Court will host their biggest free event of the year; their 24th Apple Day on Sunday 15 October between 10am and 4pm. Celebrating the autumn windfall with cider and homemade food, a range of activities from creative crafts to apple themed challenges and games, stall holders, live music, children’s entertainers and cooking demonstrations. See www. cockingtoncourt.org
Devon opera
LOCALLY based opera company, Red Earth Opera, will be staging performances of Mozart’s La Clemenza di Tito, sung in English, at St Andrew’s Church, Sands Road, Paignton on Saturday October 7 and the Parish Church, Chudleigh, on Sunday October 8. Tickets (£10 and £8 concessions) available online at www. ticketsource.co.uk/ southdevonsingers
WOW Exeter
OCTOBER 14-15 sees Exeter Phoenix host WOW: Women of the World Festival with arts, film, music and conversation to connect and engage with the process of progress for women locally and around the globe.
Earth talk
On October 11 Pat McCabe and Lyla June Johnston will share their experience of ceremony that looks at the microcosm of the Wounded Healer becoming Healer at Darlington Hall.
Lost species cairn
Pivotal craft fair returns for 22nd year
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RUX Craft Fair, the longestablished event with a great reputation, is back for a 22nd year in 2017. As regular attendees will know, it offers an opportunity to meet, chat and buy from some of the top designermakers in the South West. Plus a great cafe with wonderful lunches, cakes, snacks, and beverages. Amanda Critchlow, one of the Crux Craft Fair organising team said: “With an exciting range of beautiful crafts on show from over 30 exhibitors, choose from a selection ranging from basketry to pottery, jewellery to textiles and woodwork to glass. It is a perfect
opportunity to shop local and there is bound to be an exciting gift for Christmas for someone special, or you could even treat yourself. “There is a wonderful cafe supplying refreshments, cakes and delicious lunches, so why not come and make a day of it.” This year the Crux Craft Fair will be supporting LandWorks, a charity based at Dartington Hall Estate. Entrance and car parking is free. Crux is open Friday November 24 from 4-7pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 25 and 26 from 10am-5pm. Crux will again be at Rattery Village Hall, which is easily reached from the A38.
The women of Exeter unite to reclaim the night
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EOPLE from Exeter and the surrounding areas will join together again in solidarity to raise public awareness about the levels of violence and harassment experienced by women and girls on Devon’s streets. Devon Rape Crisis and Sexual Abuse Services, Stop Abuse for Everyone (SAFE), local feminist groups and students from Exeter University will all join forces to make the city’s largest, visible protest about sexual violence on the streets. The Reclaim the Night events will take place on Thursday November 30, starting with a gathering at St Sidwell Community Centre from 4pm – 6pm. There will be placard and banner making workshops, food and refreshments as well as general inspiration to generate an atmosphere of collaboration and community. The march itself starts at 6.30pm from St Sidwell’s ending around 7.30pm in Bedford Square. The march is happening during the 16 days of action, between November 25, the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against women and girls, and December 10, which is Human Rights Day. Fee Scott from Devon RCSAS said: “Reclaim the Night events have been hosted across the country since 1977 and we are so pleased to be generating more and more interest in our annual protest in Exeter. We know that many people have never been on a march before and may feel slightly unsure about joining in but we would encourage anyone who cares about women and children to come along.” Women from all backgrounds and experiences are encouraged to step forward and take up lead roles and positions in this year’s event. Facebook: Reclaim the Night Exeter or on Twitter: @exeterRTN or email: exeterrtn@gmail.com.
Devon on earth fund launched
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ACK in issue 49, Reconnect reported that a Devon Community Foundation has joined forces with local philanthropists passionate about reconnecting people with nature, to launch a new fund dedicated to people, place and planet. Thanks to generous donations the ‘Devon on Earth’ Fund is now open for applications. Devon Community Foundation’s Laura Hewitt said: “We’re looking to support community groups that seek to reconnect people – physically, intellectually and, above all, emotionally – with the wider community.” For any people across Devon who want to give more locally and have a passion for their community and the environment, a stage one application can be made at
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ANDREAS Kornevall (www.earthrestorationservice. org) and Azul Thome (www.souland.org) will be creating a Life Cairn in Totnes on November 30 2017 as part of the Remembrance day for Lost Species (they are still looking for a permanent spot for their Life Cairn). They are seeking a piece of land preferably by the River Dart accessible by all ...all the time... to place and care for the Life Cairn. See www.facebook.com/events/1773741646245298 for details of open meetings. Azul said: “Please join us if you are touched by the 6th massive extinction of Life on Earth and want to give away your gifts, broken hearts and talents to creating our first Life Cairn in Totnes.” Artists, singers, musicians, children, elders, mothers, fathers, lovers of all sorts and all two, three and four legged welcome. Contact Azul-Valerie Thome: soulandinfo@ gmail.com. Tel: 07765257517 and see www.souland.org
www.devoncf.com/apply/ For those interested in helping support this fund, the Foundation has match funding available to enhance any donation. l To take advantage of this opportunity and make the most of your gift please email scott@devoncf.com for more information.
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The jolly good jaunt returns
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VER in East Devon there’s a good cause returning to raise funds for Hospiscare. The Jolly Good Jaunt will be held on the morning of Sunday October 29. The 7.5-mile sponsored walk starts from the Deer Park Country House Hotel and continues through the autumnal East Devon countryside. To learn more about the event and to sign up, visit www. jollygoodjaunt.co.uk or call the Fundraising Team on 01392 688020. Hospiscare is a local charity, providing free, high quality care and support to people with a progressive life-limiting illness, and those close to them in Exeter, Mid and East Devon.
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NEWS&views Jeff Sleeman, and Emma Boddy, both are listed on the ah-ha.org.uk website
south westerlies... SCOTT does love a bit of live music. Whilst bouncing around at gigs and festivals he thinks he’s discovered there are new potential live music venues in the heart of our communities.
An untapped resource for live music
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’VE LOVED live music for as long as I can remember. I grew up in the Tropics (a tiny archipelago in the Pacific) and there they found any excuse for a celebration with a band and a feast. I remember that I loved the energy the dancers created, and the atmosphere of the busy field. When I found that similar feeling here in the UK, stood in Wembley Stadium as a teenager watching Queen, it started a lifelong love of watching bands (many of them not particularly impressive live). Since then I have been regularly attending live gigs as well as hundreds of festivals over the decades. Since the last issue I appear to have spent a fair bit of time in old churches with cobwebs in their eves. No, not praying that I can meet the print deadline (here’s hoping I can though, or you’ll be reading this at Christmas), but to enjoy live performances from some great musicians. The first of these was a visit to Kingskerswell Church to get the old circulation moving with the upbeat Land Of The Giants. Even though they were billed as acoustic, their infectious sound soon had the crowd (and me) rocking in the aisles. I’ve not been to the venue before and it’s clearly doing a great job providing live music to the local area. There was a great selection of teas and homemade cakes too, definitely a venue worth revisiting. They welcome Sheelanagig, Sam Green, John Smith, FolkLaw, Winter Mountain and more in the next few months. (See our Going Out section for a full list of who they’re hosting). A few weeks later and I was just across the Tamar at Port Eliot. It’s one of my favourite festivals offering such a mix of talks (about hydropower for instance), a great healing area, workshops, arts and crafts, food and chef showcases, and of course some live music. The weather deteriorated (it was the holidays), so I took refuge in the church that offered a programme of music including a wonderful set from Martha Tilston. The following month Totnes was my destination for Drift Records’ Sea Change Festival. This time the whole town baked in heat (it was the bank holiday), and I found St Mary’s Church a welcome cool venue. The line-up featured
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captivating performances from vibraphone playing Masayoshi Fujita, kiwi Nadia Reid, and rising folk star Jim Ghedi. All this reflecting under stained glass got me thinking about these ‘houses of god.’ They’re all built in stone and able to keep cool even in mid-summer, they have wonderful acoustics, and they bestow a degree of quietness to the audience that makes for a more reverential appreciation of the performance; something often missing at gigs, in this age of mobilephones and short attention spans. They have stood within their community for centuries, and have brought the community together within them. Often this community facility hosts a variety of local happenings like keep fit, martial art or dance classes, hobby clubs and the like. Churches have traditionally hosted music and singing in worship. It does seem strange to me that often these buildings are under utilised in our villages and could benefit from the income from the community by hosting popular music. Every time I sat in a pew and watched a live act, I couldn’t help but think of those many churches in rural areas, used just for services, marriages, blessings and funerals. They’ve always had classical and choral live music in churches but it’d be great if a bit more of a variety of music could be showcased. Think of all those large capacity airy, acoustically rich venues Devon has. I think they’d attract a wider audience too. Families would be more likely to attend with kids, as churches are a bit less the domain of grown-ups like traditional music venues. Plus, how many gigs have regular gig goers enjoyed where there’s been tea and cake on offer, rather than weak lager? In recent years I’ve been to Exeter Cathedral to see the likes of Levellers, Jethro Tull, and Seth Lakeman. Clearly there’s an appetite to host live music acts in religious buildings. Gentrification is, we’re reading in the music press, resulting in the loss of many of the classic old live music venues, not only in the South West but across the country. Perhaps a thriving new music scene could be cultivated within our old cobwebbed stone churches?
Art practitioners on prescription
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F YOU went to your doctor feeling a bit ‘under the weather’ and instead of giving you a prescription for some pills he suggested you sign up for a creative writing course or join a community choir, would you be pleased or think he should be struck off the medical register? Either way, this is a scenario you may well encounter during a visit to the GP in the future as the idea of social prescribing becomes more widespread. Social prescribing (also known as arts on prescription or community referral) is the use of arts, humanities and social engagement as a means of supplementing or replacing prescription medicines for the treatment of patients. Studies have shown that engaging in artistic, creative and community based activities can be highly effective in helping patients, particularly those suffering from moderate anxiety, depression or other mood disorders and avoids the risks of side effects and possible addiction associated with drug based solutions. Several of these studies have shown additional benefits to the healthcare system in terms of fewer repeat visits to the GP, fewer hospital admissions and considerable savings on drug and administrative costs. A new network of arts practitioners - including writers, painters, musicians, actors and poets - has been set up to support the evolution of social prescribing and to promote the use of arts and humanities in the field of healthcare generally. ‘Arts and Humanities Healthcare Associates’ is the idea of actor and life coach Jeff Sleeman who for over ten years has been running drama
based communications courses for student doctors and is a passionate advocate for the use of the arts in
the healthcare environment. Said Jeff: “The concept of social prescribing is rapidly gaining popularity and I know through my work with trainee doctors how effective the arts can be –both as a form of treatment for patients but also as a means to facilitate the wellbeing, learning and development of doctors themselves. Arts and Humanities Healthcare Associates is an organisation that brings together arts practitioners who also have experience of working in healthcare environments as a resource for anyone who is interested in making more use of the arts in healthcare. This can include working with patient groups on a community referral scheme, the design and facilitation of training and development courses for health sector workers and providing support for research projects into the benefits of social prescribing. It’s a very exciting area to be involved in and could potentially bring about huge benefits to patients, doctors and the NHS.” Anyone who would like to find out more can visit the Arts and Humanities Healthcare Associates website www.ah-ha.org.uk
New exhibition
ANGEL Studio in Totnes will be hosting an exhibition of Raquel Yago Boj’s work investigating the construction of the photographic image, and our perceptional understanding and relationship to it.
Scott
The exhibition, which runs from October 27 to November 7 showcase images which whilst created in front of the camera, reference postproduction techniques, without actually using them. Raquel uses plain geometric shapes in her images to change our spatial perception when viewing them as photographs.
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NEWS&views
Barn owls in trust With photographer Samjhana Moon featured on the cover of this issue along with barn owls, we felt we should include the birds in Reconnect too. So, we asked LEXIE NEW of Ashburton’s Barn Owl Trust to tell us more about these wonderful animals, and the work the Trust does.
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HEN did you last see a wild Barn Owl? These days only 1 farm in 75 has nesting Barn Owls and with statistics like that, it’s not hard to see why Barn Owls need all the help they can get. With the most sensitive hearing of any animal ever tested, Barn Owls are perfectly adapted to finding small mammals such as mice and voles under cover of darkness, yet lack of food is their biggest enemy. Intensive farming, responsible for 50% declines in the Farmland Bird Index since 1970 and the Farmland Butterfly Index since 1990, is by no means the only issue they face. Half of all reported deaths are road casualties and according to the latest government figures 95% of Barn Owls contain rat poison. As their name suggests, Barn Owls like to live in old farm buildings but these days there are far more barn conversions than Barn Owls. Local charity the Barn Owl Trust is doing all it can to help conserve this iconic farmland species. Based on the outskirts of Ashburton, the Trust runs a genuine sanctuary (not a visitor centre) which is home to
Photo by David Ramsden
Samjhana said of the owl shoot: The owls are owned by Russell Burt. I met him on the moor with them, the shoot was only 30 mins and Russell was standing by to ensure their comfort and safety. 50 permanent resident owls that for one reason or another cannot be released into the wild. A purpose-built owl hospital provides care and rehabilitation for injured wild owls about half of which are released back to the wild. The Trust’s most important work, however, is habitat creation. Barn Owls mainly hunt over rough tussocky grass which provides cover for their small mammal prey. Watching a wild Barn Owl hunting is the most amazing sight – something you’ll probably remember for the rest of your life – and rough grassland is where you are most likely to see one. Really good rough grass, with a deep litter-layer, is not only a fantastic habitat for Barn Owls but supports a vast array for other wildlife; wildflowers, bees, butterflies, crickets, lizards, swallows, kestrels, bats, the list is almost endless! Through advisory visits and webpages the Trust promotes the creation of rough grass field margins as well as whole fields such as its own 25 acre site on the edge of Dartmoor. Despite its small size, the Devon-based Barn Owl Trust is a national charity offering advice across the UK and beyond. The Trust is involved in education; visiting local schools and providing a speaker for adult groups and training courses for professional ecologists, and maintaining its website which receives 3-4,000 visitors a day. During the winter nestboxes are erected and during the summer months around 80 Annual Monitoring Sites are visited under licence across Devon to check for nests and BTO-ring owlets. Bird ringing is an important part of population monitoring and anyone finding a dead or injured Barn Owl is asked to contact the Trust. l For more information, please visit www.barnowltrust.org.uk
Exploring a photographic life at sea The journey continues for Plymouth’s TONY FITZSIMMONS, documentary photographer and photojournalist.
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he second vessel of my Waterdance commission was the Karen of Ladram. She was a far cry from the size and majesty of the Margaret, though she did have her charms. I had never been so far south since my southern move to Plymouth and it was great to finally discover the magic of Penzance, along with the quaint yet forever busy harbour town of Newlyn, where this 20 metre Netter worked out of. Having enjoyed the open air life on the deck of a Beamer, being on a Netter was essentially like documenting an indoor factory at sea. The outside world was projected for the most part as a beam of pure white light through
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the various port holes and hatches, masking the finer details of that blue horizon line of two halves. It was also easy to forget you were a hundred miles west of Lands’ End, as the sea out here for much of the week was as calm as you could never have imagined, mimicking a smooth texture of finely rippled glass. If I didn’t know better, I could have happily tested the surface with a pair of skates. Just like those on the Margaret, the Karen lads were hard working and very much family orientated, with a few recent and proud dads amongst the crew. Despite being a young bunch, they had a level of maturity and knowledge of this livelihood well beyond their years and it was once again humbling to be around such decent and diligent folk; their continuous graft firmly putting me in my place as I simply clicked away throughout long days behind the camera. The Waterdance commission continued throughout much of 2016, with further Beamers
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and Netters out of Brixham and Newlyn, along with an few additional day boats added to the list; the picturesque Exmouth Marina and familiar stomping grounds of Plymouth’s Sutton Harbour to venture forth from. With every outing, I continued to write an account of my time at sea with four and five page spreads in Fishing News, much to the delight of my photojournalism aspirations. By November I had now logged over two months at sea, and with just two vessels left to complete the Waterdance commission in early 2017, what lay ahead for me was anyone’s guess. I just hoped that whatever plans were in store for me, they would still be very much focused on the continual documentation of the many lives and livelihoods at sea; a place as vastly daunting and foreign as the far reaching skies forever above. Find out more at www. tonyfitzsimmons.com
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Goingout oct/nov 2017
OURBIGGUIDETO BIG LOCAL EVENTS APPLE DAYS
HENNOCK APPLE DAY Oct 1, Hennock
How to get YOUR events into Going Out... WELCOME to Reconnect’s out of this world GoingOut pages... We connect all the hot stuff from across the region, categorised for easy access. We have an EVEN MORE comprehensive online version at www.hubcast.co.uk/reconnect - also available via our busy website at www.reconnectonline.co.uk. To get YOUR event listed online (and when possible, have it listed here in the mag too), simply register at ReconnectHub and enter the info free of charge. To advertise here or online, email adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk or call 01392 346342.
SHARPHAM APPLE DAY Oct 8, Sharpham, Totnes BUCKFASTLEIGH APPLE DAY Oct 8, Orchard Millennium Green, Buckfastleigh MODBURY APPLE DAY Oct 14, Community Orchard, Modbury STOKENHAM APPLE DAY Oct 14, Community Orchard, Stokenham KILLERTON CIDER AND APPLE FESTIVAL Oct 14-15, Killerton, Exeter COCKINGTON APPLE DAY Sun 15, Cockington, Torquay ALL WAYS APPLES FESTIVAL Oct 25, Devonport Guildhall, Plymouth DARTMOUTH APPLE PRESSING Oct 29, Community Orchard, Dartmouth
ARTS/CRAFTS
COLLECTIVE WORKS - PRESS GANG PRINTMAKERS Until Oct 1, Harbour House, Kingsbridge JULIE ELLIS - INNER LANDSCAPES Until Oct 07, Brownston Gallery, Modbury EXHIBITION: BRIAN RICE Until Oct 12, RAMM, Exeter TOUCHY FEELY - TIM GEE AND CAROL HOCKING Until Oct 23, Southside Gallery, Plymouth LIFE, LIBERTY AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS Oct 2-28, Artizan Gallery, Torquay EXPLORING LIFE AND LANDSCAPE Oct 3-8, Harbour House, Kingsbridge IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY (FOR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING)
Oct 13 - Dec 24, Baxters Gallery, Dartmouth SHAF ARTS TRAIL Oct 14-29, South Hams Arts Forum , Kingsbridge SELF PORTRAIT Oct 18 - Nov 4, Harbour House, Kingsbridge SUSAN CAVALIERE SOLO ART EXHIBITION Oct 30 - Nov 24, Artisan Gallery, Torquay SOULSCAPES: KAMINI GUPTA Nov 11-19, Harbour House, Kingsbridge TWO DIMENSIONS: NICK & PATRICK BREMER Nov 21- Dec 3, Harbour House, Kingsbridge
BALLET THE TIN FOREST Oct 14, Pavilions, Teignmouth THE SLEEPING BEAUTY Oct 18, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter BALLET CYMRU - THE LIGHT PRINCESS Oct 25, Pavilions, Teignmouth
CHORAL
NEWTON COMMUNITY CHOIR & NEWTON GOSPEL GROUP
PLYMOUTH PHILHARMONIC CHOIR Nov 26, Plymouth
COMEDY
CLASSICAL
MATT RICHARDSON
JAN RAVENS Oct 6, Pavilions, Teignmouth
THE PETER CIGLERIS TRIO
Oct 8, Phoenix, Exeter JERRY SADOWITZ
Oct 8, MVO, Plymouth PENINSULA DOCTORS ORCHESTRA Oct 15, Peninsula Arts, Plymouth CONVIVIO: A ROYAL ENGAGEMENT Oct 21, Totnes CHROMA CHAMBER ENSEMBLE Oct 21, Pavilions, Teignmouth
Oct 15, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter RUBY WAX Oct 16, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter SEAN KELLY Oct 20, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter PAUL FOOT Oct 20, Watermark, Ivybridge
COLOUR AND LIGHT Oct 26, Great Hall, Exeter
PHIL WANG Oct 22, Phoenix, Exeter
MUSIC OF MIXED REALITY Nov 8, Peninsula Arts, Plymouth
EXETER COMEDY GROVE Oct 27, Barnfield Theatre, Exeter
IN MEMORIAM Nov 9, Great Hall, Exeter
EXETER COMEDY CLUB Oct 27, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter
THE ALKE QUARTET Nov 10, Powderham, Exeter EXETER PHILHARMONIC CHOIR Nov 11, The Mint, Exeter
FESTIVAL OF THE SPOKEN NERD Oct 29, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter NICK HELM
JOGLARESA Nov 17, Newton Abbot
Nov 1, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter NOISE NEXT DOOR
Until Dec 1, Newton Abbot
CHAMBER ENSEMBLE OF LONDON Nov 19, MVO, Plymouth
ST THOMAS GOSPEL CHOIR Until Dec 3, Exeter
SMOOTH CLASSICS Nov 23, Great Hall, Exeter
CHORAL CONCERT Oct 14, West Devon Chorale, Crediton
ISCA ENSEMBLE Nov 25 Parish Church, Sidmouth
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NO FEATU W FREE RING O ENTR NLINE I E MOR S AND E IN EXPO -MAG SURE
Nov 4, Watermark, Ivybridge SIMON AMSTELL Nov 9, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter MATT FORDE Nov 18, Phoenix, Exeter
PAUL ZERDIN Nov 18, Babbacombe Theatre, Torquay JAMES ACASTER Nov 22, Phoenix, Exeter EXETER COMEDY CLUB Nov 24, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter
DANCE THE KALA CHETHENA KATHAKALI COMPANY Oct 9 Phoenix, Exeter LIVE CONNECTION Oct 14 and Nov 4, Studio 6, Dartington, dance with live music S.E.E.D.S DANCE COMPANY - CHAPTERS OF DIAGNOSIS Oct 21, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter ANJALI DANCE COMPANY: GENIUS Oct 25, Peninsula Arts, Plymouth
ECO EVENTS OPEN ECO HOMES WEEKEND Oct 6-8, Transition Town Totnes, Totnes ECO AND COMMUNITY HOMES FAIR Oct 21, Civic Hall, Totnes
EVENTS/FESTIVALS LOST IN MUSIC WEEKEND Oct 6-8, various venues, Exeter HUNT’S HARVEST FESTIVAL Oct 7, Broadleigh Farm, Stoke Gabriel
TWO MOORS FESTIVAL Oct 13-21, Venues across Dartmoor BODY KIND FESTIVAL - FESTIVAL OF BODY ACCEPTANCE Oct 13-15, Venues across Totnes DARTMOOR YOGA & MEDITATION RETREAT Oct 13 -16 Divine Soul Retreats, South Brent WOW: WOMEN OF THE WORLD FESTIVAL Oct 14-15, Phoenix, Exeter HOLISTIC WELLBEING AND NATURAL CRAFTS FESTIVAL Oct 14-15, Civic Hall, Totnes DARTMOUTH FOOD FESTIVAL Oct 20-22, Various venues Dartmouth 24 HOUR YOGA MARATHON Oct 21, Hen House, Kingsbridge EXETER REPAIR CAFE Oct 21, St Sidwells Community Centre, Exeter COCKINGTON HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL Oct 23–29 Cockington, Torquay CONFERENCE ON SOCIAL RENEWAL Nov 4, Dartington Hall, Totnes TEIGNMOUTH JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL Nov 17-19, Teignmouth EXETER REPAIR CAFE Nov 18, St Sidwells Community Centre, Exeter LOOK AFTER YOUR HEALTH Nov 22-26, Macrobiotic School, Totnes CRUX CRAFT FAIR Nov 24, Village Hall, Rattery LIFE CAIRN FOR LOST SPECIES Nov 30, Totnes Turn over the page for more GoingOut listings
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GOING OUT LOST IN MUSIC F E AT U R I N G
S ND ES BA NU ET 40 VE ICK 0 1 1T
presents
PUBLIC SERVICE BROADCASTING LIVE
IN
EXETER
CATHEDRAL
PLUS
FARMERS MARKETS ASHBURTON 5 days a week: Tuesday – Saturday Tuckers Yard, Ashburton
BOVEY TRACEY Alternate Saturdays every month Town Square, Bovey Tracey BUCKFASTLEIGH Every Thursday Near The Globe Inn, Town Centre BUDLEIGH SALTERTON Last Friday of every month Polle Car Park, off High Street CREDITON Every 1st Saturday of the month The Market Square, Crediton
Free entry to Phoenix ‘Beats & Bass’ & Cavern ‘Indie Club’ Aftershow Parties
SAT 7 OCT / 2pm TILL LATE
TICKETS: £20+bf (Earlybird) / £25+bf standard !"$ /LostWeekendExe Available in person from Exeter Phoenix or online lostweekend.co.uk
DARTMOUTH Every second Saturday of the month The Old Market, Dartmouth DAWLISH Every second Saturday of the month The Lawn, Dawlish EXETER Every Thursday Junction of South Street and Fore Street EXMOUTH 2nd Wednesday every month The Strand Gardens, Exmouth ILFRACOMBE Every 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month St Peters Church, Highfield Road
IVYBRIDGE Third Saturday of every month Hartford Road Car Park, Ivybridge KINGSBRIDGE Every first & third Saturday of the month Town Square, Kingsbridge NEWTON ABBOT Every Tuesday Courtnay Street, Newton Abbot PLYMOUTH Every second & fourth Saturday of the month Town Centre Plaza, Plymouth PLYMOUTH (GOOD FOOD MARKET) First Sunday of every month Royal William Yard, Plymouth TEIGNMOUTH Last Saturday of every month The Triangle, Teignmouth TORQUAY Every Friday Union Street, Torquay TOTNES GOOD FOOD MARKET Every Third Sunday of the Month Market Square, Totnes
MUSIC GIGS
PETE CANTER Oct 4, Bridge Jazz Club, Exeter ROGER BEAUJOLAIS Oct 4, Jazz and Blues Club, Teignmouth PETE CANTER’S SKY ENSEMBLE Oct 6, Parish Church, Kingskerswell EAT STATIC Oct 6, Unit 23, Totnes THE DREAMERS Oct 7, Pavilions, Teignmouth JESS MORGAN AND DAN WHITEHOUSE Oct 7, Totnes SHEELANAGIG Oct 8, Parish Church, Kingskerswell RALPH MCTELL Oct 8, Corn Exchange, Exeter THE AMAZONS Wed 11 Oct, Phoenix, Exeter SEAN TAYLOR Oct 11, Pavilions, Teignmouth FEROCIOUS DOG Oct 14, The Hub, Plymouth MARTIN SIMPSON Oct 14, Parish Church, Kingskerswell WILLE & THE BANDITS Oct 15, Phoenix, Exeter EMILY BACON’S GOOD TIME GANG Oct 15, Jazz Club, Plymouth
Luke Daniels Oct 1 Parish Church, Kingskerswell
THE DRYSTONES Oct 15, Parish Church, Kingskerswell
ROGER BEAUJOLAIS
KATE RUSBY Oct 17, Corn Exchange, Exeter
Oct 1, Jazz Club, Plymouth
Get YOUR event out there with Reconnect’s Going Out pages TO ADVERTISE your event on our diary website, Reconnecthub, simply visit www.hubcast.co.uk/reconnect and register - then you can enter your own events whenever you want. AND many of them will appear in the next (December/January) issue of Reconnect magazine. AND they will be viewed through other HUBCAST websites (across the SW). AND it’s all FREE!
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(There are some online advertisements available too and it’s first come, first served - so call Scott now on 01392 346342)
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MARTIN SIMPSON Oct 17, Phoenix, Exeter JAM EXPERIMENT Oct 18, Speakeasy, Torquay SLAMBOREE Oct 20, Phoenix, Exeter LOS PACAMINOS FT PAUL YOUNG Oct 20, Pavilions, Teignmouth SAM GREEN AND THE MIDNIGHT HEIST Oct 20, Parish Church, Kingskerswell ANDREAS TOPHØJ & RUNE BARSLUND Oct 21, Parish Church, Kingskerswell THE HOOSIERS Oct 21, Phoenix, Exeter MUSIC FROM THE HEART Oct 22, St. John’s Church, Totnes
EDDIE AND THE HOT RODS, JOHN OTWAY Nov 4, The Hub, Plymouth FOREVER AMY Nov 4, Phoenix, Exeter
NICKY SWANN Nov 27, Artizan Gallery, Torquay
BEN JORDAN 4 Nov, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter
SUNSPLASH QUARTET Nov 29, Speakeasy, Torquay
EMILY BARKER Nov 5, Phoenix, Exeter
OPERA
BURY TOMORROW Nov 10, Phoenix, Exeter
LA CLEMENZA DI TITO RED EARTH OPERA Oct 7, St Andrews Church, Paignton
THE WEDDING PRESENT Nov 11, The Hub, Plymouth
LA CLEMENZA DI TITO RED EARTH OPERA Oct 8, Parish Church, Chudleigh
GREG ABATE WITH THE MATT CARTER TRIO Nov 12, Plymouth Jazz Club, Plymouth
COSI FAN TUTTE DEVON OPERA Oct 14, The Great Hall, Dartington
JOHN FAIRHURST Nov 12, Phoenix, Exeter
COSI FAN TUTTE DEVON OPERA Oct 17, The Barnfield Theatre, Exeter
HEIDI TALBOT Oct 22, Phoenix, Exeter
SAID THE MAIDEN Nov 12, Parish Church, Kingskerswell
JOHN SMITH Oct 22, Parish Church, Kingskerswell
HUNTER & THE BEAR Nov 16, Phoenix, Exeter
JUSTIN CURRIE Oct 24, Phoenix, Exeter
THE HACKNEY COLLIERY BAND Nov 17, Phoenix, Exeter
HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN Oct 26, Phoenix, Exeter NOBLE JACKS Oct 27, Parish Church, Kingskerswell WISHBONE ASH Oct 27, The Hub, Plymouth ACOUSTIC HAVEN RAVEN Oct 27 St. John’s Church, Totnes CHRIS WHILE & JULIE MATTHEWS Oct 28 St. John’s Church, Totnes LONDON ASTROBEAT ORCHESTRA Nov 1, Phoenix, Exeter MUNJENTA CAFE Nov 1, Speakeasy, Torquay LUCY ROSE Nov 2, Phoenix, Exeter URBAN FOLK QUARTET Nov 2, Unit 23, Totnes FOLKLAW Nov 3, St. John’s Church, Totnes
WREN MUSIC BLACKBERRIES & BANDAGES Nov 17, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter ALABAMA 3 ACOUSTIC Nov 18, The Hub, Plymouth OYSTERBAND Nov 19, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter WINTER MOUNTAIN Nov 20, Parish Church, Kingskerswell SKERRYVORE Nov 20, Phoenix, Exeter THE MAGIC BAND Nov 21, Phoenix, Exeter
THE LOST SOUND DEVON FOLK CHOIR Nov 25, Parish Church, Kingskerswell
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Booking, LIST OF SPEAKERS, PLAN OF DAY see web-site: www.dartington.org/what’s on Via email: boxoffice@dartington.org Rudolf Steiner’s revolutionary ideas on radically transforming society, given in 1917 will be revisited and explored anew for our own times. They are more relevant than ever.
THEATRE
Contact : Christopher and Raphaela Cooper on 01803 866817
MAGIC OF THE STARS Until Oct 18, Babbacombe Theatre, Torquay RICHARD III (A ONE WOMAN SHOW) Oct 4-5, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter WE ARE IAN Oct 4, Peninsula Arts, Plymouth FOMO MOFOS! Oct 11, Peninsula Arts, Plymouth MARK CAREY, INTO THE BREACH Oct 21, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter FINDING THE WILL BARD HEADS Oct 21, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter
FIRE AT THE CLARENCE Oct 31-Nov 11, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter
UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN Nov 3, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter
Conference on Social Renewal Dartington Hall, Sat 4th November 9am-5.45pm
Oct 1, Backfastleigh to Vire Island, Totnes
AFRO CELT SOUND SYSTEM + THE DHOL FOUNDATION Nov 23, Phoenix, Exeter
HAWKLORDS Nov 3, The Hub, Plymouth
The Civic Hall, Totnes 14th and 15th October 2017 10am-5pm Free admission All-day programme of talks, workshops and demonstrations Wide variety of readers, healers and traders All-day café 07900 824089
TOTNES RAFT RACE
LIP SERVICE THEATRE Oct 27, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter
ACOUSTIC HAVEN RAVEN Nov 24 St. John’s Church, Totnes
HOLISTIC WELLBEING AND NATURAL CRAFTS FESTIVAL
RAFT RACE
STEELEYE SPAN Nov 22, Exeter Corn Exchange, Exeter
HERE & NOW Nov 24, Unit 23, Totnes
Rainbow’s End
LAU Nov 29, Phoenix, Exeter
BORDER TALES Nov 4, Peninsula Arts, Plymouth TWELFTH NIGHT - SUN & MOON THEATRE Nov 15-16, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter BAROQUE THEATRE COMPANY - THE THREE MUSKETEERS Nov 18, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter
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ORGANICGARDENING TIPS from JOA GROWER this time include planting a green manure, compost checking, and having a general tidy up.
Autumn undertakings for the garden
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add to your compost bin. There must say that this time of the year is probably not my most are quite a few to choose from favourite. Most plants are now including Vetches, Tares, Clover safely in the ground and if they and my favourite Rye Grass. are not, there’s still time to put a Many seed companies sell these few things in. and a few other varieties but it can work out quite expensive. Now is an ideal time to sow A bag of organic rye grain broad bean seeds. You can sow from your local wholefood shop them direct into your soil or I usually works wonders. Simply prefer to sow them in to pots sow by broadcasting (sprinkling) or trays and plant out when all over the area 10-20cm tall. and then raking Alternatively, you in. Check your can purchase compost bins to them all ready see if you have to go from us at any compost our stall at Totnes market. ready, you may need to dig Onions and down about garlic can also 25-30cm to find be sown now some and if so and this will now is great give you a time to add it to slightly earlier, your beds. Also bigger crop. add any leaf Making it well mould you may worth doing. have collected Use unheated last year or the green houses to year before. By grow perpetual A leaf mould cage using this now spinach, or sow it frees up your bins for all the a few winter hardy salad leaves summer crops that need to come and lettuces. out and empties the leaf mould Check all your winter brassicas, cage, so you’ve got room for this tie up any of the taller varieties year’s leaves. Be a bit selective such as purple sprouting broccoli, when collecting leaves. Parks Brussels sprouts and some of the and woodlands are always better kales, as they tend to get a bit top than attempting to collect them heavy and the cabbage family do along the roadside. not like to be wobbly when they are growing. Take some time to have a general tidy up! Much better to do it now, There will be areas where you’ll as this will help expose some of have nothing growing in them those dreaded slugs for the birds to and rather than letting the weeds eat. Take down your bean canes take over why not try sowing and store them in a dry shed or some Green manures? These are garage. Put away any nets, pots or crops grown for the sole purpose trays, clean your garden tools, and of adding fertility to the soil or have a clear out. to produce bulky green waste to
Planting asparagus crowns OCTOBER can be a great month to start a new Asparagus bed. That’s as long as you have very free draining soil and not something that turns into a quagmire over the winter months. The first thing to do is prepare the ground. Remove all perennial weed roots (these are things like bind weed and couch grass). You may need to dig the bed over a couple of times just to make sure you’ve removed them all. Dig out a trench 30cm wide and 20cm in depth. Create a small mound in the bottom of the trench and place your crowns on top of the mound with their root spread out. Leave a 30-40cm space between plants. Pull the soil back into the trench and firming gently around the plants. Then make a slight ridge over the rows to direct the rain away from the young spears that will emerge next spring. It’s very tempting, but don’t cut any spears in the first two years, just allow them to grow into tall ferns. Only cut down to the ground in the winter months when the ferns have turned yellow. In the third year you can start to cut the spears (and believe me they will be well worth the wait!). Traditionally you stop cutting asparagus spears on mid summer’s day – June 21. We stock Asparagus plants at Growers Organics all year round. What ever you plant, pick, prune or put away. Have fun in the garden! Reconnect’s Organic Gardening column is written by Joa Grower of Growers Organics. Meet her at Totnes market on Fridays and Saturdays. Visit www.growersorganics.com, or call 01752 881180.
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Journeying inward with the seasons
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UTUMN is a time of transition to the darker half of the annual cycle and for many of us is a challenging time of the year. We feel the call of mother nature to let go of the active phase of the year and this can prove difficult in a world that loves speed, but ‘letting go’ of situations, habits or people that no longer serve us, is an essential part of the creative cycle. Approaching the Autumn season with a positive mindset can help us discover a time of deep inner creativity that brings great wisdom and insight to our life’s journey. The diminishing energy of Autumn invites us inwards for reflection and self-assessment making this the ideal time to look back on our successes and challenges of the year. Connecting with the archetype of our inner Queen or King for this process, who is able to detach and take a bird’s eye view, can help us to see the truth of challenging situations and take inspired action by making necessary adjustments achieve our long term goals. Channelling our energy into creative solo projects and bringing order to existing ones can be extremely satisfying and creates space for the upcoming winter, when our focus shifts to inner
development that will support new growth in the Spring: de-clutter your wardrobe, organise your accounts and finish jobs in the garden. Brainstorming ideas with a trusted friend may have you plucking solutions out of thin air and provide a strategy to help you through the Winter months ahead. If you struggle emotionally with the Autumn/Winter transition, make space to slow down and ground your body, spend time in nature, attend a yin yoga class, visit the sauna to clear out toxins, eat warming foods and root vegetables. Finding ways to relax, unwind and test our brakes now can help us align with the natural rhythm and stave off any Winter blues. Use this time to let go of emotional or physical baggage and ditch unhealthy addictions so that when Spring comes around again you’ll have the space to bring in the new. l Samjhana Moon, Natural Cycles Mentor www.innerseasons. com
Totnes: past, present, future, real, mythical, and imagined NEW sonic poetry project Totally Totnes! will nurture the talents of new poets culminating in a performance skills training day with Totnes poet, Matt Harvey, and a special one hour show broadcast on Soundart Radio next year on October 4, National Poetry Day, 2018. The poets will be guided through 6 one-day poetry workshops, run once a month starting in January 2018. The workshops will be taught by Totnes poet and creative writing teacher, Heidi Stephenson. Heidi is the former South West Regional Coordinator of performance poetry organisation, Apples & Snakes, where she produced many Spoken Word events and co-produced 3 national tours. The workshops will offer a professional development opportunity to new, would-be and emerging poets, and will provide an opportunity to explore poetry as a sonic form. The subjects covered will include training the ear; using visual language; creating verbal music; rhythm and rhyme, storytelling and narrative, and protest
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songs. Participants will get to work in a recording studio, and will have a legacy of their collaborative work (a podcast) for future use. Project participation is free of charge and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to those who live in TQ9. Workshops will take place at Bogan House, Totnes on Saturdays from 10am to 5pm. Group A dates are: January 13, February 10, March 10, April 14, May 12, June 9. Group B dates are: January 27, February 24, March 24, April 28, May 26, June 23. The groups will come together on September 1st, September 8th and September 15th for a performance skills workshop with Matt Harvey, a rehearsal day and the pre-recording of Totally Totnes! The deadline for applying is Friday November 3. Please email Heidi at speedwell9@yahoo.com, with contact details and 50 words about why you would like to take part.
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£41.85 NEWS&views
The virtual wild foraging herb walk
TORBAY herbalist Dawn Ireland of Green Wyse explains a little about medicinal uses of common seeds or herbs, taking us on a virtual Reconnect herb walk.
Elderberries Elderberry - Sambucus nigra HE berries of the common Elder tree are of huge benefit medicinally. The dark purple berries which can ripen at any time from August through to October are full of flavonoids called anthocyanins. That purple blue pigment is responsible for an amazing action in the body against viruses. The coating on a virus is usually prickly, these prickles pierce our healthy cells, get inside and use this as a way to replicate, which is the point at which we start feeling ill. The common cold, and the flu virus work this way. The blue anthocyanins from elderberry have been observed in labs to engulf the prickly spines of viruses, preventing them from using that way to gain access to our cells. Then they are attacked by our immune system and cleared from the body. Its not possible to keep enough of the anthocyanins in our bodies to ensure we never contract colds or flu again, but what has been shown in clinical trials in human volunteers, is that it cuts down the chance of suffering from a virus by about half, and if you do succumb to a virus, the duration is also cut by about half. When you consider that secondary bacterial infections are often the dangerous after effects of viruses, and they come along as opportunistic bacteria some days after the virus takes hold, you are much less likely to reach this point if the length of time you have the virus is reduced. The beneficial effects of the elderberry are carried over into processing by cooking, drying, freezing, or even making into wine. A traditional way to use elderberry is to make a syrup or ‘rob’ by using the juice and blending with sugar and spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger. If you don’t want to use sugar you could blend with vegetable glycerine (at 60% glycerine to juice), or any syrup (at 50/50) You can freeze ice cube sized amounts of juice as a perfect mug sized measure to add hot water to. Avoid consuming large amounts of uncooked berries or juice as they can cause vomiting. Medicinally, 4 or 5 teaspoons per day is sufficient when suffering from a virus, or less than that to take as a winter preventative.
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Sloe berries (Prunus spinosa) THE blackthorn trees are full of berries at just the right time of year to think about making winter cough remedies. If you’ve ever made sloe gin by soaking whole sloes, with gin and sugar to achieve that glorious deep red, almond flavoured drink, you have in fact made a cough remedy. The pips in sloes, in common with cherries, peaches and nectarines, contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, in other words the raw material that makes cyanide! But as they say, it’s all in the dose. Small amounts of extract made by soaking the fruits in alcohol or glycerine have the medicinal benefit of damping down those irritating dry coughs which keep you (and anyone else in the vicinity) awake at night. Not to be taken if you have a productive cough which needs clearing from the body, but invaluable once this has passed and you’re left with residual inflammation and dry mucous membranes of the throat. Sloe berries
Book a series of ads this size and it will cost you just £41.85 a month - including free editorial. Ross Adams of Abundant Gardens can vouch for the success of advertising. He said, “I had a lot of success with advertising with the magazine last year, so much so that I have no need to advertise for this year.” You too could find customers through an advert in these pages, call Scott on 01392 346342.
New community pottery in the heart of the Dartington Estate. Studio 45 is a busy hub and interactive learning space for potters and ceramicists. It is an open-plan learning environment where members and students alike have access to wheels, kilns and equipment as well as technical know-how. We provide weekly classes in ceramics from beginners to advanced and specialist weekend workshops on glaze technology, low impact firing, women making big pots and kiln building. We are also offering low cost courses for special interest groups and low-income individuals. For more information on membership, workshops and courses have a look at the website www.studio45.uk.com or contact us directly at info@studio45.uk.com
Empowering families across Devon & Cornwall since 1999 Fill a jar with sloes, after first breaking open the skin of the berry by stabbing it with a darning needle or cutting with a knife. If you want to include sugar, add about a quarter of a jar worth, shake well to disperse around the berries, then pour on your tipple of choice. The clear spirits look the nicest as you get the red colour. If you use glycerine you don’t need the sugar. Shake daily and after about a month you can strain off the berries, keeping your cough remedy for when it’s needed. Two teaspoons before bed work well. As always, consult a professional if symptoms persist and don’t self diagnose. If you are on any orthodox medication, check there are no potential interactions, this includes contraception, patches and inhalers. Be mindful of our precious green spaces, and don’t pick large amounts of wild plants. Get the landowner’s permission and leave plenty behind to regenerate so you can go again next season.
Dawn Ireland www.torbay-herbalist.co.uk See website for herb walks, workshops and events. www.greenwyse.co.uk Hand Made Vegan Botanical Skin Care
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news&views Help reduce waste with Refurnish
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EFURNISH Crediton is three years old this December. The shop offers affordable reused goods back to the community. Refurnish Crediton Manager, Kate Evans, and her team try to offer a shopping experience like no other. Kate explained: “It’s so easy to lose yourself for an hour or two just browsing our extensive book area! Make yourself comfortable & read a chapter whilst testing out a comfy sofa or grab something new for your wardrobe; all our clothes, shoes & bags are only £1. A treasure trove of memories & forgotten riches, we really do have something for everyone!” Kate added: “At Refurnish we love take unwanted furniture & make it your new favourite piece or maybe our designs will inspire you to upcycle a piece of furniture yourself. Re-Use is Recycling with little to no carbon footprint. When you Re-home a Refurnish item - from a frying pan to a fridge freezer or a bicycle to a book you are reducing the amount of items going to landfill. We all have a responsibility to try & Re-Use before we buy new!” As with any of the county’s Refurnish shops, they can only be as good as the support from their donators, so do a little bit to save our planet and bring an unwanted item or two to donate to them. Remember they also offer FREE collection on larger items making it even easier to donate. Kate said: “People are
at the heart of our work, by offering a 20% discount to those on receipt of benefits on certain items, we are ensuring everyone has access to items to make their house a home. Furthermore, we work alongside local projects & businesses; we feel it is important to support the local community in every way, from providing work experience for people with special needs to advertising local businesses free with leaflets & posters placed prominently in our store.” Their local garden centre has provided an array of free plants to make the shop front look inviting and local care support services raise money for musical instruments by offering a weekly car wash in the car park. A visit to Refurnish Crediton could help reduce waste, save money, and if you pick the right day you might go away with a sparkling car! Follow them on Facebook for more updates.
Lost in music festival FROM October 6, Exeter will host the three day Lost Weekend Festival headlined by Public Service Broadcasting, playing in Exeter Cathedral as part of multi-venue event on Saturday October 7. Showcasing the best in digital creativity, art, ideas and cutting edge music, the citywide festival will champion Exeter as a home to world-leading scientists and technologists. Exeter Phoenix will host three consecutive evenings of emerging alternative/electronic bands as well as new tech conferences and playable art sessions. On Saturday one wristband will get you in to see 40+ bands, and exclusively into 10 venues including Exeter Cathedral, Exeter Phoenix and the Cavern Club and there are also 2 free stages for everyone to enjoy. The music programme also includes other standalone events such as Wildwood Kin playing in the Cathedral and a conference at Exeter Phoenix, both on Friday 6. Tickets are £25 and available from www.lostweekend.co.uk
Ashburton’s unique local produce market...a truly amazing variety of all sorts of delicious goodies. Free parking.
TUCKERS LOCAL PRODUCE MARKET, Tuckers Yard, Chuley Road, Ashburton TQ13 7DG
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LOCAL PRODUCE A celebration of Devon apples
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N OR around Saturday October 21 many Devon villagers will get together for Apple Day, a celebration of apples and the rich diversity of our orchards; a chance to try different ciders and juices, home-made apple cakes and chutneys, and join in apple-themed crafts, games and family activities. Maybe bring along a bag of your own apples for pressing and go home with a bottle or two of delicious juice! Apple Day was founded in 1990 by the charity Common Ground. Apple Day is intended to be both a celebration and demonstration of the variety we are in danger of losing, not simply in apples, but in the richness and diversity of landscape, ecology and culture too. It is now celebrated all over the country. Here in Reconnectland the not-forprofit organisation Orchard Link has similar aims; it has been working for nearly twenty years to restore and extend orchards in the area
Th e O ri gi n al O n e-L og B on fi re
Hand carved in the heart of the woods
Various varieties (at Sharpham Apple Day). Photo: Orchard Link. and conserve traditional local fruit varieties. Orchard Link helps people who have fruit trees – whether it’s just a couple or a whole orchardfull – by passing on knowledge, skills and expertise. It also encourages community involvement in orchard management, heritage and traditions.
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A flaming centrepiece for any outdoor event, wedding, party or ceremony
If you have a quantity of apples and would like to make your own juice or cider, Orchard Link hires out presses and mills of different sizes to members. Membership is only £12. More information at orchardlink.org.uk.
Some of the many October apple days in south Devon Sun 8, 10.30–4 Sharpham Apple Day (Sharpham Estate, TQ9 7UT) Sun 8, 10–4 Buckfastleigh Apple Day (Orchard Millennium Green, TQ11 0DS) Sat 14, Modbury Community Orchard (Modbury, PL21 0QA) Sat 14, Stokenham Community Orchard (Stokenham, TQ7 2SU) Sat 14 - Sun 15, 10–5 Killerton Cider and Apple Festival (Killerton, EX5 3LE) Sun 15, Cockington Apple Day (Torquay, TQ2 6XA) Wed 25, 11–4 All Ways Apples Festival (Devonport Guildhall, Plymouth, PL1 4EL) Sun 29, 12–3 Dartmouth Apple Pressing (Community Orchard, TQ6 9PE)
Greenlife supporting local business
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REENLIFE, one of the largest health food shops in the South West, is a Totnes success story. Their marketing manager Jon said: “We have been in the town since 1990, and since then the business has gone from strength to strength. Our very large shop space means we can sell a very wide range of products, far more than your average Health Shop. “Customers visit us from a very wide area because of this large selection. We will often carry the products that their little local Health store simply doesn’t have room for. For example, we have three entire bays dedicated to our herbal tea range, which is huge.” Many food lines and some supplements are also supplied by local small companies and artisan suppliers, and local farms supply organic dairy produce. A wide range of foods, plus organic fruit and vegetables also come from local suppliers. “We try to carry a mix of the big brands and the small. This makes business sense and we are hopefully helping the smaller companies to get a foothold in the industry,” says Jon: “Customers often come in for their familiar choice of product and then notice the alternatives from our smaller lesser known brands. Without this exposure it is very hard for little companies to generate significant sales.” Local company The Clay Cure started
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small with a few detox clays and now offer a large range of salts, clays, activated charcoal products, deodorants and tooth powders - all available at Greenlife. Another example is local artisan chocolate makers Mulu who have recently upscaled their business, and are now listed with wholesalers and reaching a bigger audience with their products. “They have worked hard to grow their brand, and over the years they have often been in store to do tastings. Initially we were their largest stockist I think,’’ says Jon: “Greenlife have hopefully introduced many customers to their delicious vegan raw chocolate. Their amazing new truffles deserve to be a bestseller too.” Greenlife are open from 9am – 6pm Monday to Friday, and 9am – 5.30pm Saturday. Throughout December the store will also be open late every Tuesday as part of the Totnes Late Night Christmas Shopping event. Many products are also available to order online: greenlife.co.uk
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news&views How to make a plant-based diet healthy OLIVER COWMEADOW, founder and principal of the International Macrobiotic School explains why balance is the key to good health.
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HEN I started giving health consultations more than 30 years ago, my main challenge was convincing people to reduce their intake of meat, dairy food, sugar and refined foods, and eat more whole grains, vegetables, and vegetarian sources of protein like beans and pulses. This was a new concept to many people, but now many people are switching to a “plant-based” diet, and the health benefits are now backed by a growing mass of scientific research. For example in the last 20 years Western medicine has extensively researched the effects of eating a ‘Mediterranean diet’, rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruit, peas and beans, with some fish and olive oil. This research shows unequivocally that this way of eating, along with regular exercise, reduces the chances of developing major degenerative diseases like high blood pressure and heart disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes, many cancers, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Lets say that again, these very common degenerative illnesses are NOT an inevitable part of aging, but are avoidable, if we choose to make healthy changes in our diet and life style. This is exactly what macrobiotics has been advising since its beginnings in the early 20th century - a return to the traditional pattern of eating found in most parts of the world, based around eating whole grains, beans, and vegetables, with a wide variety of fruits, seeds, nuts, sea vegetables and seasonings, with only small amounts of fish or other animal food. Over and over again I have seen just how effective this way of eating is in healing many health problems, and increasing people’s physical health and vitality, emotional wellbeing and mental positivity. However, simply eating mostly plant foods is not a guarantee of good health; many people include a lot of unhealthy foods such as sugar and tropical fruits, and the diet must be balanced if it is
going to be really healthy. Macrobiotics uses the guiding principle of creating balance between opposites, expressed as yin and yang in Oriental culture. This means choosing foods and cooking methods to balance qualities like the yang warming and nourishing foods like whole grains, beans, root vegetables, soups and longer cooked dishes that we need to give us energy and warmth, with the more yin relaxing and cooling foods like green vegetables, fruits, naturally brewed alcohol and raw, fermented or very lightly cooked food. Too many yang foods and we get a hot, tense condition in the body that may create tension headaches or migraines, heavy painful periods, or high blood pressure. Or too many yin foods and we can get cold, tired, lacking in motivation and joy, and suffer problems like frequent colds, hayfever and other allergies, or heart palpitations. The way to health is through creating balance each day, month and year of our lives to achieve our greatest potential for health, happiness and freedom. Whether it’s a fun weekend of hands on cooking, a five-day intensive or our one-year holistic nutrition for body and soul, the International Macrobiotic School has the perfect course for you. Visit the school’s website at www.macroschool.co.uk
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HEF Shane Jordan works in promoting recycling, reusing leftovers, and sustainability in schools, universities, worked with councils and community-based organisations. Shane’s the UK ambassador of Fair Food Forager, a new app that encourages local cafes and restaurants to become sustainable and ethical. Shane uses manual alternatives to electric gadgets, along with fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices that can be bought locally without needing to travel to specialist stores for high price ingredients. This natural approach to preparing food is inspired by the Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic era. Apart from meat and fish, leafy vegetables, fruit and nuts were frequently foraged. As our ancestors did, he utilises items for preparing food such as mortars and pestles. He offers group workshops throughout the UK & private lessons and tutorials too. More details will be on Shane’s website: www. foodwastephilosophy.com. Twitter: @FoodwasteShane
Our trash . their home . shop zero waste
Earth . Food . Love thezerowasteshop.co.uk . 101 High Street, Totnes 18
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Naturally nourishing The continuing story of Evolution EVOLUTION has been part of the Alternative, New Age or Mind Body Spirit scene in Exeter for many years now. Most people became familiar with the ‘old’ building half way down Fore Street. Last year the shop moved to new premises near the top of the hill. But fewer people know that the original Evolution started as a very small shop on the opposite side of the street to the present shop. T WAS tucked behind St Olave’s Church, upstairs in what is now The Bike Shed but was then The Pickwick Arcade. Founder, Mike Davies explained: “I remember the excitement before I started the original shop. It was the late ‘80s and I was in my late 30s and was at a kind of loose end. My “hippy” days were well over but something had lingered and taken me to follow a spiritual path. I had never really developed a career although I’d dabbled in Hypnotherapy but that didn’t really work out. I had been to a Mind Body Spirit bookshop in Totnes and I started to wonder if such a shop could exist in Exeter and if I could make it happen. I then enlisted on the government enterprise scheme (courtesy of a Mrs M Thatcher!) and set to work. I had absolutely no money but I had a credit card with £1,500 credit limit so I went to the bank and told them I had £1,500 and could they lend me £3,000? I was surprised when they said yes!”
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Mike discovered an empty shop in the Pickwick arcade that cost £45 a week. “I was warned against opening there since it was tucked away and most businesses there were clearly failing but a psychic lady told me it would work out. I had been working as a receptionist at Exeter Natural Health Centre and had a list of all their contacts so I did a large mailshot. I also had a lot of support from City Wholefoods nearby who put a map in their window. I must admit I had my doubts as to whether it would work but after the first week’s trading I had the princely sum of £300 (takings, not profit!) plus £40 from the Enterprise Scheme! Word got around and things just went up from there. Those days most of the stock was in books, but we had a fair number of new age music cassettes (remember them?) as well as crystals, jewellery, incense, aromatherapy oils, art cards etc. Most of my profits went into expanding the stock and it grew very quickly.” By 1991 Evolution had outgrown the space and sought new premises. A whole building in Fore St was found, with space for therapy rooms, a group room and a flat. This became the centre that most people are familiar with. Mike continued: “The lease was for 25 years and I must admit I paid little thought as to what would happen in 25 years time. The business was successful but for personal reasons I decided to sell it in 1998. The landlords insisted I keep the head
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JANE HUTTON, our resident foodie, loves an autumnal harvest that provides a bountiful supply of heavenly food.
An autumnal carnival of pumpkins lease and sublet it. The person I sold it to kept it until 2011, then sold it to a person who kept it for 2 years, meanwhile reopening the Crystal Cafe at the back of the shop and in the yard behind. The person he passed it on to converted it mainly into a cafe and renamed the place ‘The Crystal Cafe and Holistic Emporium’. Unfortunately it was unsuccessful and passed on once again to someone who closed the cafe, converted it back to a shop and renamed it Revolution, meaning Re Evolution. This was abandoned in February 2016 with 6 months of the lease still to run. Mike revealed: “Meanwhile I had retired (or thought I had!) but being still responsible for the rent and the building I decided to take it over again and rebuild the business and bringing back the old name of Evolution. Later the landlords decided to sell the building with vacant possession (i.e. empty) and since I had a right of renewal on the lease I was able to negotiate a settlement with them, effectively letting go of all the repair work that I was obliged to do at the end of the lease. (There was a lot and it would have been very expensive!). I was then free to find new premises which I did, up the road on the same side. “And, here we are at No 96 Fore St, opposite where we started! I have to admit I’m very happy about how things have worked out. It seems the Universe had other intentions for me than retirement! The shop is doing much better in the new position, closer to the centre of town and at the top of the hill. I enjoy the simplicity of having just a shop again, rather than the whole building. Much more appropriate for a man of my age! I am now employing some wonderful staff who are allowing me to sit back a bit and get a bit of rest! “The content of the shop has changed a lot. Since I first started the internet has come in and changed everything, especially in the areas of books and music. We are still doing a few of those but are doing a lot more in crystals, jewellery, clothes and accessories. I feel it is important that the place feels like a welcome sanctuary where people can take a break from the troubles of life. Most of what we do is very colourful and I like to think we are bringing more peace, brightness and colour into a world which is going through some very dark times. Yes, Evolution is still here, still evolving and I reckon we’ll be here for many years yet!”
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HIS issue I’m going into full functional foodie mode, plus a pumpkin recipe to warm your cockles. This is what I do, after all. My whole philosophy rests on the nourishing, natural, and ultimately, necessary, need for a diet based around real food. I see clients with all kinds of health complaints, some of them easily resolved, others more complex; in the end, though, it’s my real food ‘prescription’ that supports their bodies’ healing processes. It’s the knowledge of foods as pieces of a whole jigsaw that allows me to do what I do. We all love to eat delicious food, but how much do you know about what the components of your plate actually do for your body, and your mind? Harvest season is a corker for food heaven, especially making the most of the autumnal carnival of pumpkins. Pumpkins, and indeed squash, are available in a huge range of varieties, all with different shades of flavour and texture. More and more are locally produced, and not hard to grow, so make fabulous seasonal additions to any autumn kitchen adventures. Bursting with antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, with a supporting spectrum of B vitamins, folate, and vitamin K, plus potassium, molybdenum, selenium, iron, zinc, copper and manganese, these gourdy wonders are great for immunity, energy, appetite and weight control, heart health and even fighting wrinkles!
The carotenoids, particularly alpha-carotene, are the real heroes of pumpkin benefits, with an increasing body of research linking to protection against ageing, cardiovascular disease and even various cancers, working with other nutrients like magnesium. The carotenes became a prime example of why we should be using food as our nutrient source, not supplements. A very famous study found that although beta-carotene appeared to reduce the risk of lung cancer, when smokers supplemented beta-carotene on its own, the incidence of lung cancer increased. The upshot? While there are circumstances that need supplementation, the kinds of supplements or sources of extra nutrients should be carefully, and professionally, considered. The nutrients in foods work synergistically. For every nutrient needed for a process, there are a number of other co-factors required to make that process work. A varied range of fresh foods, bought locally, and cooked carefully are the best way to be healthy. It’s why certain foods grow together or go together – they usually work well together for our bodies. Keep hold of any post-Halloween beauties knocking about – it would be criminal to waste all that delicious, nutritious goodness. Get gourding, with this recipe. Enjoy!
FRUIT or fruit purees and compotes work really well added to pancake batter, either before cooking or a scoop on top of the cooking pancake before flipping. Here the pumpkin puree works best added to the mixture. A quantity of pancake batter (use whichever recipe you’d normally use, based on 200g of flour) 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground ginger a good grating of nutmeg 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted 100g pureed pumpkin
Make and rest the pancake batter as normal. When ready to cook, mix the pumpkin, melted butter and spices in well, and cook as normal, allowing for the extra minute or so needed for a denser texture of pancake. These work best as smaller, thicker pancakes or drop scones. Extra pancakes can be reheated gently the next day, or frozen.
Perfect purees and pumpkin pancakes
Naturally Nourishing is written by nutritionist and “confirmed foodie” Jane Hutton. Visit her new website, www. functional-foodie.com, and sign up for programmes, recipes and advice.
Editorial: 01392 346342 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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MORE FOLLOWS... MARTIN has been struck down with a flu bug, but has still managed to contribute to his regular column. It must be down to good planning, surely?
Climbing higher and stronger
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HAD planned to write this column last week (sorry, Scott) but then I was struck by one evil flu bug. And this wasn’t the ‘man flu’ variety that women love to gloat about, coming in somewhere just along from ‘quite a bad cold’ on the sniffles/pneumonia spectrum. This was one mean package: non-gender-specific (ask my wife – she’s boldly picked up the heavily infected baton now I’m on the mend), it rendered me horizontal, groaning and useless for a couple of days - and even now I’m still feeling a bit dodgy so apologies for any random flights of delirium. Or any more than usual. In fact I had planned to write it even before Mr Flu dropped in (even bigger apologies, Scott), but then the ever-giving Mother Nature decided we really needed a few days of extraordinarily (for the time of year) wet weather, which conveniently highlighted a few leaks in our chicken houses, so it was away with the laptop and out with the roofing felt and nails. That’s the thing about plans: you’ve got to make them, but you’ve also got to make them flexible because life’s rich tapestry includes more than a few pulled stitches of unpredictability and occasionally a random tear (that’s ‘tear’ as in rip, but you can be sure there’ll be tears as in sobs along the way too). So what’s the point of making plans if life’s going to rip them up and cast them to the breeze like so much confetti? Well, as free-spirited as you might be, or like to think you are, life is just such hard work without a little structure; a list or two of organisation; maybe a few diary entries of order. If I’d put any proper planning into writing this, I might have checked if I’d mentioned my Runnerbean theory here before, but I don’t usually make many (ie any) notes before I start, so let’s just go with it and if you’ve read it before, that’s fine because it bears repeating… Some years back, I ran a series of workshops with Maggie Kay (check out www.maggiekaywisdom. com for all manner of wellbeing, wisdom and wonder) called Mind Your Own Business, the intention of which was to help therapists and creatives to make more of a living from their work.
The workshop content included some lovely creative stuff like manifesting, along with some gritty things like admin. Generally it was well-received but it was the mention of planning and structure that rang the loudest alarm bells among the attendees. Most of them were working for themselves precisely because they didn’t want the structure and rigidity of a 9-5. But (and I know I have written about this before because it’s something of a pet subject of mine), with planning (and, ironically, even some limits) comes a certain freedom. We suggested that structure in business, and in life generally, be seen not as prison bars of limitation but rather as a structure of support – like a framework on which runner beans can climb. The beansticks allow them to climb higher and stronger. And also means they can grow away from the structure, explore other areas (perhaps getting annoyingly tangled round neighbouring plants) – and still have a safe, sturdy base to return to. In its most basic form, a simple list of ‘things to do’ ensures we don’t forget stuff. The next step might be to prioritise things; maybe then create separate lists. You might prefer to keep it on paper or maybe you have mastered the secrets of the spreadsheet. Getting it down on paper or screen also means you don’t have to try to hold it in your head: it’s there anytime you need to check how things are going, but it frees up your mind for actually doing things. Like making the list a little shorter. Or adding to it. What worried our workshop attendees, of course, was that if they got all organised, it might be at the cost of spontaneity – that fluid, unpredictable element of life that produces the unexpected. The surprise catalyst that allows the creative to burst forth. And that puts us on another spectrum, with ‘structure’ at one end and ‘free-form’ at the other. As always, we position ourselves wherever we feel most comfortable – although not everyone we interact with will be comfortable with our decision. But then they can always change their plans to accommodate us…
Tigley pigleys MARTIN (former editor of this parish) has also asked us to tell fans of high-welfare meat that Tigley Tump, the smallholding where we put him out to grass, has Tigley Pigley Pork Packs for sale (5kg of joints, chops and sausages - £45) right now and, very soon, wonderful lamb and (just in time for Christmas, off course) goose and turkey too. You can find Tigley Tump on Facebook, or call Martin on 07837 003962.
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Pots and the power of community
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OR the last eight years Richenda Macgregor has been teaching potters, apprentices and students at her tiny little studio called the Pottingshed Workshop in Ashprington. Two years ago, exasperated after repeatedly and constantly having to turn people away from classes because she was full to capacity, she hatched a plan to move to Dartington. September saw Richenda’s plans come to fruition with the launch of studio 45, the new community pottery on the Dartington Estate. Richenda said: “Weekend workshops were booked a year in advance and there was a growing number of people asking for more workshop time and apprenticeships, I decided to begin training a group of people to help me teach and facilitate this growing community of pottery enthusiasts. “At the same time I received a phone call from Satish Kumar (Schumacher College) encouraging me to think about moving my business on to the Dartington Estate. After a certain amount of fear and trepidation, a vision that I have had for many years began to form and finally crystallise.” Studio 45, creative pottery hub, is a new community pottery in the heart of the Dartington Estate. It’s an interactive learning facility with a full programme of courses, workshops and offering places for 15 budding potters wanting to further their practice. The facility has eight wheels and three kilns and will have a research arm investigating the clays and materials found on or near the Dartington Estate In March this year Richenda found out the ‘harmless’ mole that she had had removed the previous week was a little more serious. She took time off teaching and had two months of surgery, appointments and waiting for the final results to come through (all clear). She explained: “In the meantime my ‘team’ rolled into action. I can’t describe to you how extraordinary the following months proved to be. I had to let go. Mel Chambers (Alchemy Tiles) my former apprentice and now business partner moved in to position and everybody worked, put in the hours, all on a shoestring.” Then, in May this year, Studio 45 were invited to ‘pitch’ to the local community through the ‘Community of Dragons’ - Totnes local entrepreneur forum who support local and new businesses. Richenda remembers: “I stood on a podium in front of 150 people, spoke about the community pottery and waited with trepidation as my local community responded. “Donations, interest free loans, help with funding, free wood for a shed and literally dozens of offers began to pour in. We also had donations of equipment, glaze materials, shelving, the list goes on! “After years of doing everything myself, I found myself in a position of suddenly learning, springing forward, no longer just reliant on myself but with an entire team and community willing this project on and wanting it to work. ‘The whole is greater than the sum of its parts’ has new meaning for me.” For more information on workshops and courses have a look at www. studio45.uk.com
Children’s book published on the theme of mindfulness
Devon-based author and healer, Hilda Kalap, has had her first picture book ‘Donna and Dermot on the Move’ published. Hilda said: “I am beyond thrilled that ‘Donna and Dermot on the Move’ was believed in by Pegasus as it’s so hard for first time authors to be given such a chance. My biggest wish is that children going through upheaval and sadness in their lives will gain courage from listening to and reading the book and know that they are not alone.” Copies can be purchased from the publisher’s website at www.pegasuspublishers. com or by calling 01223 370012.
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Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk Share shed seeks your help
THE Totnes Share Shed is looking for volunteers and more items for the library of things, where people can borrow all sorts of useful things. The project supports a more resourceful community whilst raising awareness about consumerism. In five months it’s attracted over 100 members and lent out almost 200 items ranging from DIY materials, pressure washer, camping and gardening equipment, to house appliances and much more. The Share Shed is so popular they have a Wish List of items people would like to borrow, perhaps our readers can help? They are also looking for volunteers to help at the Share Shed for three hours on Saturday mornings. The Share Shed operates from the Guildhall garage on the Guildhall Yard (by St Mary’s church), and is open every Saturday from 10am to 1pm. Anyone can join, on production of a valid ID, and a contribution between £1 and £10. To see the wish list and further information, visit shareshed.org.uk.
Success starts sequel The reactions to the debut novel of Devon based writer Casey O’Connor have been so good that she is now following it up with a sequel, which will be available next year. The story of fertility, fostering, and adoption is written as the diary of main character Bridie Kelly. Both funny and poignant, one reviewer said: “I was unable to put the book down and was awake until the small hours wanting to find out what happens. There is a great deal of authenticity in this book diary which describes the love of a foster carer for a traveller child from the Irish community. I look forward to the sequel and rate this book 4 stars.” Order a copy of Being Bridie by Casey O’Connor at your local bookshop. To read more than 20 reviews visit Good Reads, Devon Book Club or Amazon, and like Casey O’Connor on her author page.
Am On a s Ki zon ale nd .co no le .u w fo k a on r£ n 2. d o 50 n Being Bridie is a first novel for Casey O’Connor, who was brought up in Dublin but now lives in Devon. Bridie Kelly has been daydreaming all her life of the things that other women seem to get so easily. She is desperate with a capital D to be a mother, but it’s not happening, despite fertility treatment and other therapies. When things eventually fall into place life is nowhere as straight forward as it was in her dreams, life is downright tricky, and Bridie is spinning from one crisis to the next. When her ultimate dream comes true, life implodes and she’s in danger of losing everything she holds dear. A funny, poignant, roller coaster ride, receiving 5 star reviews on Amazon. Casey is currently working on the sequel.
making Ethical Easy
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umber Down Wood near Teignmouth Golf Course have opened their woodland centre and forest garden. Their opening event included a chance to see their building created from Douglas Fir and Japanese Larch. The centre is intended to offer the community an art and drama space, a forest garden, heritage craft, nature trail, and a chance to learn about forestry skills, and outdoor cooking. Find out more at www.humberdownwood.co.uk.
shane@fairfoodforager.com hello@fairfoodforager.com Join now and support local, sustainable business
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Editorial: 01392 346342 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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eco homes Transition Town Totnes’ two weekends of eco inspiration return
Eco homes, retro-fit builds, community building projects and renewable energy installations from in and around Totnes will all feature.
AS autumn forces all to spend more time indoors, we start to think about how we improve our homes in future. It’s handy then, that at this time of year Transition Town Totnes organises two great sources of inspiration and information. Firstly, there’s the chance to visit inspiring homes, from the traditional to the unconventional, in Totnes and the surrounding area at the ninth annual Open Eco Homes weekend. Each home is at a different stage on the journey to reducing their energy bills, their environmental impact, and making use of renewable energy projects to be less dependent on fossil fuels. This is then followed a fortnight later by the Eco and Community Homes Fair, featuring suppliers of ecofriendly goods and services, home energy installers, plus eco-builders and, new this year, community led housing projects and solutions. The Open Eco Homes weekend, takes place on October 6-8, it’s free of charge, and features 17 homes and projects that have reduced their environmental impact, and are contributing to a low carbon economy. From community building projects to renewable energy installations, renovated historic properties and retrofitted homes, there will be an abundance of inspiration! Additionally, there will be a special Eco Homes Transition Walk on the day, from 2pm-5.30pm The Eco and Community Homes Fair 2017 follows on Saturday October 21, 10am-3pm Totnes Civic Hall, and is also free to visitors. Exhibitors will include
ReFURNISH Helping People & Reducing Waste
ReFURNISH your home with furniture and appliances at prices you can afford* *Discounts on proof of benefit entitlement
SHOPS AT WRANGATON, NEWTON ABBOT, TOTNES, BUCKFASTLEIGH, CREDITON & TAVISTOCK + THE RESTORE @DARTINGTON SHOPS + 3 NEW SHOPS IN NORTH DEVON. SOUTH MOLTON, BARNSTAPLE & BIDEFORD
Free collection of reusable furniture, appliances & other household goods.
www.refurnish.org.uk 01752 927002 Charity No. 1129455
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suppliers of eco-friendly goods and services, home energy installers, plus eco-builders and, new this year, community led housing and solutions! The fair will feature free talks, an expert panel on Community Land Trusts, workshops and demonstrations and children’s activities to give parents time to look round. This year Food in Community will be running the cafe, selling delicious treats made from grade out produce that would otherwise be wasted. The theme for this year’s free talks, workshops and demonstrations is ‘community-led housing solutions.’ The full programme, including session times, is available as a download on the TTT website, or can be picked up around town. Any queries about either event should be addressed to ecohomes@ transitiontowntotnes.org, or call 01803 867358.
Exeter community energy’s fund
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OCIAL enterprise Exeter Community Energy (ECOE) have launched their community fund for 2017 designed to provide money for local projects that promote energysavings and/or help to alleviate fuel poverty within the local community. Established in 2014, ECOE is a social enterprise that sets up community-owned renewable energy projects that promote community involvement, shared benefits and the transition to a low-carbon society. Their solar rooftop project provides energy cost-savings for host sites; alternative, local solar energy; and predicted financial benefits for share-holders and for the local community through the provision of Community Fund with a pot of £4,200. During October, ECOE will hold a Collaborative Allocation event and applicants that have met the funding criteria will be invited to discuss their project proposals with everyone in attendance. The event will be open to all: ECOE members, supporters,
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directors and volunteers, anyone who lives and/or works in the local area, local organisations including those who host ECOE’s solar roof installations, and energy/community-based social enterprises. ECOE estimate that £200,000 could be made available through their Community Fund during the 20-year lifespan of their solar project. The project has generated over 230,000 kWh to date -- enough to power 58 average homes each year -- and has saved over 104 tonnes of carbon equivalent from being released into our atmosphere.
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land matters Permaculture In South Devon
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By Matthew Lepley
ERMACULTURE, originally from ‘permanent agriculture’, was coined as a term in 1979 by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren, two Australian agriculturalists. They used it to describe their developing model of farming, an evolving system of perennial plant and animal species useful to humans. It is a way of designing the landscape to both maximise biodiversity and optimising natural yields for humans. The foundation of the permaculture design process is observing, aligning with and mimicking the design processes at play in Nature. The prime example of Permaculture in temperate climates is an edible forest garden which mimics the natural habitat of mixed woodland. Over the years permaculture has taken on the additional meaning of ‘permanent culture’; incorporating loosely within its scope a whole plethora of different fields of study and activity, all with deep ecological sustainability at their core. Common examples include owner-building, bicycle transport, micro-renewable energy, workers’ cooperatives, community governance and LETS (Local Exchange Trading Systems). The Transition Movement, spearheaded by Rob Hopkins (see page 17), is also heavily influenced by Permaculture. There are three core ethics of Permaculture: Earth Care, People Care and ‘Fair Shares’ or ‘limits to consumption’. There are many valuable projects in South Devon which are either explicitly practising permaculture or can be implicitly included under its wide umbrella. Two land-based community examples are Steward Community Woodland near Moretonhampstead and Landmatters near Totnes. Steward Community Woodland has a natural affinity with the ethics of permaculture, experimenting with different aspects of low impact living. Landmatters is based on more open land and focuses on providing an educational facility for the local community and others, and has also hosted Permaculture Design Certificate courses (the official foundation of permaculture study). The Agroforestry Research Trust in Dartington is an internationally renowned educational and research organisation. Founder Martin Crawford uses forest gardening and permaculture principles as integral to his approach to agroforestry. On the South Devon Coast Rebecca Hosking co-runs Village Farm, classed as a Regenerative Agriculture farm. This organic sheep farm uses a method known as ‘holistic plan grazing’; carefully rotating sheep through various paddocks in a highly organised way that maximises and enhances the local biodiversity. LETS schemes, in the form of time banks where currency is measured in units of time, have been started in many rural and urban areas in South Devon, including Ashburton, the Bovey basin, Dartmouth area, NE Dartmoor, Teignmouth and Dawlish area and Totnes. These typically have between 30 and 150 members, with the common desire to experiment with community-governed economy. Every person’s time is valued as equal whatever service provided and no money changes hands.
Fast growing CBD revolution
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CONVERSATION that kept cropping up at Off Grid festival was around hemp and CBD. Reconnect recently met with Guy Coxall who gave a talk at Off Grid on these subjects. He is the Technical Director of Dartmoor based Molytor, a company who sell a range of innovative hemp based food supplements. Scientists made a significant discovery in biology 25 years ago when they discovered the Endocannabinoid system, a system which regulates our bodies and helps us to maintain homeostasis (a biological system in perfect balance). Many factors such as poor nutrition, chemicals in food and water, pollution, lack of exercise and stress can lead to our bodies being unable to produce endocannabinoids and the ECS can become deficient. This can lead to many health problems. CBD products help to re-balance this system and maintain health. These products are a completely new breed of supplement because they literally help to balance everything. The higher the quality, the more effective they are on health. Molytor have been able to produce some of the purest products on the CBD market by utilising cutting edge technology including CO2 extraction and winterisation. They also use adaptogenic herbs, terpenes (the essential oils
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found in cannabis) and specially manufactured MCT oil (from coconut) to produce the most cutting edge products in this new industry. Guy is also the Compliance Officer for the Cannabis Trades Association (CTA UK) which was set up by the hemp based CBD industry earlier this year. Guy said: “Although this is a young industry, it is one of the fastest growing in the food supplement sector. Companies needed guidance to ensure that they were compliant with UK/EU legislation. We have been able to help around 90% of this industry self-regulate to ensure that CBD remains available to the public and it also ensures that consumers can be confident in buying quality, safe and legal products.” In November last year, the MHRA told CBD companies: “If the industry does not work together to ensure standards and advice is consistent and above all legal, there will not be an industry.” The Trade Association started in January with just 7 Founder Members and now has over 50 full members, several associate members and numerous registered sellers. Molytor are one of the original 7 Founder Members and their quality and innovation is attracting National attention. Visit their online shop at www.molytor.co.uk
Editorial: 01392 346342 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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NEWS&views There’s a harvest for the body, mind and the soul at Sharpham
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HIS AUTMUN Sharpham Trust’s programme includes their juicy annual Apple Day, and a fireside remembrance ceremony for the dead in their natural burial ground. The free to attend Apple Day and Autumn Festival takes place on Sunday October 8 from 10.30am to 4pm and visitors can try fresh Sharpham apple juice straight from the press. The day will include a host of apple-themed activities for all the family, including taster sessions, arts, crafts and games. Attendees are invited to bring their own apples to juice (no windfalls from orchards grazed with animals in the last six weeks). Half the juice they can keep in bottles while the other half will be sold to help support the charitable work of the Sharpham Trust. If you don’t have any apples to bring there’s bottles of juice to buy on the day.
The apples will be juiced by an impressive oak-beamed press supplied by Orchard Link (see page 17) - a group of orchard campaigners from Devon’s local authorities, cidermakers and orchard owners set up in response
to the wastage of apple crops from small traditional orchards and the needs of orchard owners for help and support. Whilst campaigns have encouraged people to plant and restore orchards, there is still little advice and training, nor much provision for collecting and using the fruit produced by small traditional orchards produce. Orchard Link supports orchard owners and enthusiasts to ensure that orchards are a sustainable element of our landscape. Sharpham House won’t be open on the day. There will be a café serving teas, coffee, cakes and simple lunches and visitors are welcome to explore the formal and woodland gardens, set in a Capability Brown parkland landscape. Free activities (although donations are welcome) will include: the Apple Olympics (themed games and activities on the Croquet Lawn); apple storytelling and harvest crafts; workshops and talks on Sharpham’s trees, making cider vinegar, Devon’s orchards and apple tasting; campfire cooking and nature crafts; an apple trail for children; apple writing, songwriting and singing workshops; and a wild food and medicine walk There will be a charge of £4 per car for parking and visitors are encouraged to walk, cycle or use the speciallycommissioned Bob The Bus free shuttle from Totnes. Additionally, the ceremonial building at the Trust’s Sharpham Meadow Natural Burial Ground will feature in the Open EcoHomes weekend organised by Transition Town Totnes on October 6- 8 (see page 22).
Tigley Tump
Eco-Laundry A month later it will be the All Souls Day ceremony at the Sharpham Meadow natural burial ground; celebration to remember the ancestors on November 2 – All Souls’ Day, traditionally the time to remember relatives who have passed away. A ceremony will be conducted around the Ancestors’ Fire. A specially-cast 8ft wide bronze ring emblazoned with a line of poetry from T.S. Eliot: ‘In my end is my beginning’ surrounds the Ancestors’ Fire at the burial ground. Cedar seat posts are set into the ground around the fire-ring decorated with bronze sun and moon ornaments to mark the passing of the seasons, with niches for candles, flowers, offerings and notes to the deceased. The free event runs from 7pm to 9pm, and there will be refreshments for visitors. All are welcome, especially those with family and friends buried or interred at Sharpham Meadow. Simultaneously their mindfulness courses continue at Sharpham and in Totnes and Torquay, connecting people with nature and fostering mindfulness and wellbeing. For more information visit www. sharphamtrust.org, and see their events here: www.sharphamtrust.org/calendar
IN OTHER news the Sharpham Trust have got even greener by working with an eco-laundering supplier. They’ve partnered with Lola Grogan’s EcoLaundry to ensure that their washing is as sustainable as it could be. The company, based near Dartmouth, offers a clean and green laundry service, using detergents that don’t harm the environment and processes that are designed to be sustainable and in harmony with the planet. “We can now say that all our washing is done sustainably,” said Sharpham’s House Manager Denise Scribbins, “And it’s done locally, just a few miles away. We did a trial with Lola early on in the year. It worked well for both of us so now we’ve decided to work with the EcoLaundry all the time.” Find out more about the Eco-Laundry here: www. ecolaundry.co.uk
Introducing the jar drop service
- sharing the love Want chickens in your garden?
We have young birds of all shapes, sizes and colours (some with fluffy legs). Call for details and all the advice you need.
A taste of freedom We will soon have truly free-range chicken, pork and lamb - all soya-free, GM-free and drug-free. Put your name down for the next batch.
Chemical-free fruit and veg For sale at our farm gate and online through Totnes Food Shed - find out more at facebook/tigleytump and www.totnesfoodshed.co.uk
Other good stuff We also sell amazing handmade crafts, Tigley Tump’s unique soya-free, GM-free poultry feed (with hemp seed meal), secondhand chicken feeders and drinkers and more check out our website.
Tigley Tump is... an off-grid, chemical-free smallholding run by family and friends just outside Totnes Visit www.tigleytump.co.uk and Facebook/tigleytump
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ICOLA and Richard Eckersley of The Zero Waste Shop in Totnes have come up with a new idea to make the shop accessible for the elderly, the disabled and people with small children. They are launching a ‘jar drop scheme’ where people can drop off their jars at the shop alongside a list and they will fill and label them all up within an hour time slot for them. Nicola told Reconnect: “We are very grateful at how well the local people have taken to our shop and embraced the challenge of drastically cutting down their plastic waste. However we want to make it accessible to even more people, so we are introducing a jar drop service. Whether you are in a
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rush for work, have an over-active toddler with you or simply don’t have the patience to fill your own jars we will now do it for you! “Just bring your containers into the shop and let a member of the team know what you would like. You can then head off to work, the library or the markets and simply pick up and pay on your way out of town. We can even offer this service if you don’t have jars to drop off, we will instead just use our compostable paper bags. We ask that you give us at least 30 minutes to complete your order and aim on picking up your goods before 5pm. Working together this way, we can make zero waste shopping a reality.” See thezerowasteshop.co.uk for more information on the shop.
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The Devon hills are alive with the sound of singing Regular contributor JON STEIN is taking a break from writing for Reconnect to travel and live in Spain, and hopefully - make more music! In this his last contribution (for now) he’s on song. We’d like to sing his praises and thank him for all he’s done for Reconnect.
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OU don’t have to have seen Gareth Malone (or the X factor) on TV to know that over the last 10 or 15 years singing – especially in choirs – has undergone a massive boom in popularity. In Reconnectland we have a rich selection of community choirs to choose from. Here, a handful of choir leaders explain the benefits and joys of singing and outline what makes their groups special. Pete Scott came to the community choir scene after a career as a professional musician and teacher and now directs the successful ‘SING Devon’ choirs in Exeter and Plymouth. “SING Devon is all about the joy that’s created when people sing together with enthusiasm,” he says, adding that the health benefits of singing are irrefutable. “The oxygenation gives you a burst of endorphins and makes you feel good. And the feeling of connecting with other people when you’re immersed in the sound is far beyond words. People leave feeling fantastic.” Though Pete does all the arrangements of the music, many of the song choices come from the choir itself. “Uplifting songs are what we are looking for; pop, soul, African - whatever makes us feel glad to be alive.” The choirs welcome all-comers as Pete explains: “most people who
come along feel they can’t sing well but then find that’s not true. Everybody has a part in the sound.” The two choirs come together for a benefit concert at the end of every term (the Xmas gig is at Totnes Civic Hall on Saturday Dec 16 in aid of Beyond Borders, who assist refugees). “It’s a marvellous opportunity for charities to raise funds at virtually no cost,” says Pete, who’d like to hear from other organisations interested in collaborating. Choir leader and composer Helen Yeomans, who directs the successful Glorious Chorus, also emphasises the collective aspect. “It’s not just about singing,” she explains, “there’s a craving for community too and choirs bring people together. In this country there’s a strong tradition of choral singing but now with such a huge variety and number of choirs there’s something for everyone.” Helen balances this need for human connection with a strong musical foundation and unlike many community choir leaders only accepts new members after an audition. “I like to teach quite tricky stuff so I check that people are singing in their best range and can hold a harmony,” she explains, adding that it’s also about guaranteeing commitment. Another important aspect of Helen and the choir’s work is its concern for social justice and the
environment. “From the earliest days I wanted to write music that meant something,” she says. The One World project, premiered in 2011, is a conceptual show featuring original songs and arrangements on a theme of human evolutionary change and entering an age of unity. The work will be performed at the end of the year in Hull, the 2017 City of Culture, and in London after that. Says Helen: “One World is not about doom or catastrophe, but represents a new era of hope and positivity – a new dawn, a better day.” This theme of positivity is especially relevant to Exeter’s Spectrum Devon’s only LGBTQ choir, whose motto is to “have fun together, to sing uplifting songs and to build and celebrate our community.” Its director Emily Roblyn says it provides “a safe space for people to meet and socialise away from the ‘scene.’ For some members it’s the first time they’ve been seen publicly as belonging to the LGBTQ community.” Emily, who came to Devon from Canada (via South Wales), says: “I got into running choirs because I love singing in harmony.” A chance encounter at Totnes’ Pride in 2013 with Stuart Jay, founder of Spectrum, led her to taking up the role as their first musical director. Emily explains: “I’m passionate about singing being something that brings people together. Having this choir has been a real meeting place and community-building space.” Whatever your interest or musical ability, there is bound to be a choir out there for you. Why not get in touch with one of them now and find your voice this autumn?
Spectrum by Robyn Dylan
Resources l SING Devon: www.singdevon.com or call Pete on 07896 276577 l Glorious Chorus: helen@gloriouschorus. co.uk or call 01803 862028 l Find Spectrum on Facebook at ‘spectrum choir for devon’, or email J.Rawlinson@ plymouth.ac.uk l Other local choirs include: Devonly Voices 01803 866308, Global Harmony 01803 862246, Freedom Voices 01364 631103 and Wild Harmony www.wildharmony.org.uk
Natural voice The Natural Voice Network is a national organisation that believes “singing is everyone’s birth right, regardless of musical experience or ability.” From their website you can search for a natural voice choir or workshop in your area; there are 17 teachers listed in Devon alone. If you are already a singing leader or are interested in becoming one, you can also find support, training and resources. More at www.naturalvoice.net
Collaborating with beyond borders This issue Reconnectland regular PETE SCOTT finds that kindfulness and collaboration goes far beyond borders. INDFULNESS (like 5), a marvelous ‘mindfulness’) is a new word, singer and for a world that has got guitarist from stupider and stupider! San Diego, Ca, USA, who If people are kind to each other and also co-runs act for a common good it is possible ‘Voices Of Our to create beauty and common City’ www. wealth in a real sense. If people are stephjohnsonband.com/outreach, greedy, selfish and cruel and chase a choir for homeless people. She money and power, life becomes hell is visiting Devon in October and for everyone – even the winners! It’s will donate and teach a song to the not hard to understand. choirs to sing in our performance. This term SING Devon’s kindfulness We are delighted to have the input of causes us to collaborate with such a fine, heartful artist. Beyond Borders in Totnes who So (see www.singdevon.com for support refugees. Together we are all, or ring 07896 276577): organizing a performance/party featuring our combined Exeter •SING Devon/Hothouse Band; and Plymouth choirs (first half performance/party; Dec 16; performance), plus The Hothouse 7.30pm; Totnes Civic Hall Band (second half party) in aid of •SING Exeter Comm Choir; the charity. Tuesdays 7.15pm; SING Plymouth; We hope to better the £1500 plus, Thursdays 7.15pm that we raised in our last event •Steph Johnson/Rob Thorsen in (for The Kambeng Trust) and to concert Oct 22; 3.30pm; St John’s have a marvelous time doing it. Church, Totnes; see video on (Kindfulness – without self-sacrifice website above; tickets on door - means everyone is better off.) Wishing you kindfulness and The collaboration goes international with Steph Johnson (see also page collaboration this autumn.
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Jon Stein has a blog at www.jonstein. co.uk, you can stay in touch with him via jonstein1@hotmail.com
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rewild the child Making space for the primal nature of kids Earth Wright’s Mike Jones explores how play reconnects us with our primal nature, and is a key ingredient of our ability to adapt to new evolutionary challenges.
Part one
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T BIRTH we are the buds, the tips of the tree of life. Our parents are the twigs on which we sprout, our ancestors the branches, and the boughs and trunk are as old as life itself. We are gifted with a precious heirloom, our jewel-like strings of genes. Worked and reworked through our long ancestral line, they determine both how we look and function and our potential. Three bright facets on this heirloom recently caught my magpie eye. 1. Children are born with small brains and five times the fat of their primate cousins: gorillas, for instance. They are primed with potential and fuel, ready to rapidly grow and learn how to survive and thrive in the world. Evolution has placed a tool in their hands. A flexible, quirky, unpredictable tool, useful when messing about and experimenting with the rich natural setting of planet earth. It’s called play, and children have a strong instinctive drive to engage with it. They enter the world expecting and anticipating play; it’s in their inherited genetic coding. 2. We are subject to the influence of biophilia, an instinctive attraction to all that is alive and vital. It is during childhood that we are particularly motivated to seek out the natural world around us. 3. Human biological evolution happens slowly and our genetic make-up is still the same as that of our hunter gatherer ancestors of 12,000 years ago. The neural processes that guided our ancestors’ behaviours in Pleistocene hunting and gathering bands are likely to still be in operation today. Yet our culture has evolved at lightning speed over the last millennium, leading to today’s technological society. The ancient hand-in-hand journey of our genes and culture has been broken. They have lost each other on the path and are now strangers. These facets lead me to believe that we come into the world ready for life
South Devon Steiner School Waldorf Education for the 21st Century
‘For a Purposeful Journey Into Life’ Steiner Waldorf education from 3—18 years
in a natural, forest-edge setting, within a small human group whose ways and skills we will learn through the medium of play. Yet what’s the reality for many of us? A hospital ward, a pram, dinner in front of the TV, outdoor play in a fenced, rubber-surfaced, metal and plastic forest? Could this be why we sometimes feel so out of step with life? Why we suffer existential angst? Research clearly shows that depriving kids of play and contact with nature (and the magic that happens when both of these are present) is contributing to the epidemic level of childhood disorders, depression, obesity and allergies that mean that for the first time in recorded history our children’s life expectancy will be shorter than ours. In the face of this I often feel amazed at how much we have lost our way, strayed from the track. How we have forgotten that as well as being modern, our children are from ancient beginnings, atavistic and primeval. Our Pleistocene ancestors were adept at finding the way, being alive to the signs. If we could ask for their guidance might they take us by the hand and lead us to the words of Thomas Berry: “We must go far beyond any transformation of contemporary culture. We must go back to the genetic imperative from which human cultures emerge originally and from which they can never be separated without losing their integrity and their survival capacity. None of our existing cultures can deal with this situation, of its own resources. We must invent, or reinvent, a sustainable human culture by a descent into our pre-rational, our instinctive resources. Our cultural resources have lost their integrity. They cannot be trusted. What is needed is not transcendence but ‘inscendence’ not the brain but the gene.” Returning to the image of the tree, if we are the twigs and our children the buds, then it seems that our culture has shot upwards so fast that we have uprooted our ancient ancestral tree. We need to look down, tend to those roots, and pay heed to the instinctive resources that rise up from them. To encourage us to consider that descent, that journey of ‘inscendence’, we can listen to the life experiences of the few surviving hunter gatherer peoples still living with their genes, culture and environment in harmonious balance, their children playing free. They may not understand our questions on ‘making space for nature’. They are nature, the same as the forest. They feel their fittingness on earth. They do not share our idea of a separate self, living in the space made by nature, and hence don’t experience the existential angst felt by many of us. Having never made an ascent away from their genetic roots they have not suffered a schism between their instincts and the reality of their lives. This is the way we lived for the vast majority of human existence on Earth and our affinity for it is only lightly covered over by our recent history. In the work to peel back that covering I find it particularly inspiring to work with children. While adults show resistance and find rational excuses to avoid such engagement, kids are often ready and eager to rip the cover off and dive into their ancestral skins. It meshes perfectly with their innate biophilia and instinctive drive to play. It is vital that we create places which allow children to explore and connect with these deep aspects of themselves. For more details about Earth Wrights Ltd, who design and build natural play spaces visit www.earthwrights.co.uk
Tel: 01803-897377 Website: www.southdevonsteinerschool.org Email: enquiries@steiner-south-devon.org
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rewild the child Food for the Soul
A
S THE days noticeably contract, students at South Devon Steiner School are celebrating the beautiful produce grown in the extensive school market garden and orchards. The school offers all students regular access to the gardens with weekly Gardening lessons starting from Class 2 (aged 7 years+). The focus of the bio-dynamic garden is ‘seed to plate’ and students are involved at every step of the growing and harvesting process, from seed collection to planting, weeding to picking the produce, and of course they get to sample the fruits of their labour, in the outdoor kitchen! This term, the children have enjoyed corn on the cob from home grown sweetcorn, all the classes are making the most of the apple harvest and pressing some delicious fresh apple juice and Class 6 students (aged 11 years+) are busy selling the bountiful produce at their Wednesday ‘Vegetable Market’ for school families, even selling the odd veg box! Class 2 children grew enormously tall sunflowers over the summer and crowned a sunflower growing winner. Mark van Vliet, Gardening Teacher, said “Autumn is an important time for seed saving and we try to save as many seeds as we can, which we can then use the following year. Watching the children process the oats that they sowed in the spring is always wonderful and a task that they relish!” He continued “The harvest time is celebrated at the end of September with the Michaelmas festival; all the classes face the annual Michaelmas challenge to see how they fare, and then share a lunch of soup and apple crumble, prepared with school produce by students with help from parent volunteers”.
Mark concluded “Every class will now help with the squash harvest, garden tidying and preparations for winter including chopping wood, trimming back hedges and tending the sheep and chickens. And of course, their hard work is rewarded with the warmth of a camp fire and the chance to cook the food they have helped to grow!” For more information about South Devon Steiner School, please contact Kaycee Fordham on kaycee.fordham@steiner-south-devon.org, visit www.southdevonsteinerschool.org or call 01803897377. School tours are weekly.
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WELLBEING
THE natural health and personal development PAGES Inside wellbeing...
Finding Active Hope
Benefiting from support groups Exploring our powerful energies A course that’s life changing Seeking seasonal change
30 33 34 35
Connect with your inner wild
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Discover your untamed self Bothy retreat space available Talking about your body image The classified adverts
37 38 43 46
And there’s lots more to read inside
Support at time of seasonal transition THE Equinox on September 22 heralded the start of Autumn and, as we become aware of subtle changes in the Earth’s energy, it is time to prepare our bodies for this seasonal shift. Yoga teacher, Natalie Austin will be familiar to regular Reconnect readers as someone who offers practical support at times of seasonal transition. She said: “Now is a good time to start making preparations and intentions for the coming winter months. This new energy phase encourages us to balance our outer and inner worlds, releasing and letting go of the past and moving forwards in positive directions, making our health and wellbeing the central focus.” Her Autumn workshops are
designed to support us to release old patterns by calming and nurturing mind, body and spirit. On October 15 she will be running Yoga & Meditation for Anxiety, followed on November 12 by Yoga & Meditation for Better Sleep. She explained: “In a comfortable, safe and relaxed environment, you will learn simple tools and techniques based on the principles of gentle yoga, guided meditation, relaxation and visualisation. These workshops will be particularly helpful if you are feeling anxious and overwhelmed or wondering which direction to go in.” Booking is essential. Contact Natalie on 07516 720246 or email natalie@loveyogatree. co.uk For more information visit: www.loveyogatree.co.uk
Kate Philbin
The home of natural wellbeing WELLBEING is the home of natural health and personal development in South Devon - the perfect place to find your perfect therapy, retreat or workshop. And if you work in natural health, it’s the perfect place to get your message out there. A 1/8-page advertisement, like those below, can be yours for just £41.85 a month. A 1/4-page is only £66.60 a month. And you can tell the story behind what you offer in our free editorial - with help from our Wellbeing editor, Kate Philbin. Our designers will even put the artwork together for you at very affordable prices. The Wellbeing deadline for the next (Dec/Jan) issue is November 1 so get in touch today and let’s get the ball rolling. Call Scott on 01392 346342 or email editor@ reconnectonline. co.uk
School for Self-healing founder
Meir Schneider visits Devon from October 17-20 Meir has been teaching around the world for over four decades. After overcoming his own blindness with vision exercises, he now works with people who have major visual and physical disabilities, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, paralysis for various reasons, diabetes, chronic back pain and many others as well as regular day-to-day problems like near-sightedness, far-sightedness and backache. Join Meir in Devon this October for a lecture and workshop that give you practical exercises you can take home with you. On Tuesday October 17, Meir will be lecturing a Guide for Self-Healing. Learn the foundations of using movement, massage and relaxation to address pathologies and improve your health. Cost: £15 October 18-19 is a fun and relaxing two day workshop. On Wednesday, learn how to get rid of your glasses, recover from computer eyestrain, prevent cataracts, and address many other vision issues without surgery. On Thursday, you’ll learn how to get rid of chronic pain, such as joint or back pain with practical exercises you can do at home. Cost: £180 for both days or £100 for one day. Bring food to share and comfortable clothes. Early Bird Discount! Register before September 15 and pay £165 for both days or £95 for 1 day Venue: Studio 30 (the Hex) Aller Park, Dartington Hall, Totnes, Devon TQ9 6EL To register contact: Val Watson on 01803 866038 or valeriejean@hotmail.co.uk www.self-healing.org
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Juliette Medder
EMOTIONAL HEALTH Welcome back to our exploration into all things emotional. This time our Emotional Health columnist LEIGH SMITH explores the value of Support Groups, and considers how ‘A little help from my friends’ can greatly improve our emotional health.
To be in the company of others
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N MY work as a counsellor I often recommend support groups to my clients, there are so many benefits to be had from attending these groups that cannot be gained through one-to-one counselling. Support groups are available for a large range of health conditions, and mental health issues. Mental health issues commonly addressed in support groups include depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, pregnancy crisis, personality disorder, drug and alcohol dependency. You can find out more about groups in your area by talking to your doctor or looking on line. Groups are usually run at cost, with a donation which makes them more affordable than counselling. So there really is no reason to ‘go it alone’. Some support groups are facilitated by professionals, whereas others are led by people in recovery themselves. It is wise to shop around for a good group and find one that fits your needs and can help as part of your general wellbeing and emotional health. Three things to look out for in choosing a support group: 1) Does the group atmosphere feel safe and have clear boundaries in place? 2) Does the leader end each group on a note of moving forward? Getting the negativity off your chest is important, but the emphasis should be on how to make positive changes to improve your situation. A good leader will encourage steps toward change, and avoid the group spiralling down into negativity. 3) Do you feel welcomed and included, and able to talk openly without feeling judged? If these three things are not present in the group then this isn’t the group for you, keep looking, there are many support groups which are excellent and can provide you with a chance for growth and change. So how do support groups work? Why should I go and tell my problems to a bunch of strangers? One of the biggest advantages of being in a support group is the sense that ‘I’m not the only one with this problem’ and that others can relate to what’s going on to me in my life. I am not alone This realisation can be a huge relief and create a move away from feeling isolated and into a place of connection and feeling understood. Support groups are a fantastic place to receive information, advice, and first hand knowledge from people experiencing the
same difficulties as you. This type of information can be so valuable when learning strategies to live with a mental health condition, and finding ways of coping in a practical way. Sometimes coping with a mental health issue is just awful, and can leave you feeling that no one in the world could possible understand what you are going through. Finding a community of people who have directly experienced the same feelings as you can allow you to open up, and talk about how you feel. A problem shared is a problem halved Talking and being heard is therapeutic and extremely valuable in creating positive emotional health, it is so important to express our feelings. To begin with it can be a real challenge to ‘open up’ and talk to complete strangers about things you’re struggling with in your life. However pretty soon you will develop a sense of community and shared experience that is valuable and allows you to feel understood, valued, and hopeful about your future. You will find that others in the group listen without judgement and praise you for your courage. Mental health issues can erode our self esteem, confidence, and positivity, finding a group of people who value you without judgement can rebuild your inner strength, resilience, and pride. One of the most important benefits of a support group is ‘gaining hope’, seeing other people who have been where you are, endured your challenges and are moving forward in their lives, can give an immense sense of empowerment and hope. As you move along the road to your own recovery you will want to reach out and support those around you that need help, just hearing about how you are moving forward will have a positive impact on others. It is a well known fact that helping others can vastly improve our own emotional wellbeing. ‘Life is not a solo act. It’s a huge collaboration, and we all need to assemble around us the people who care about us and support us in times of strife’ Tim Gunn And remember that support groups are also available for the families and friends of people with mental health conditions. Carers also need a listening ear, and a support network for all the same reasons. So let me leave you with a question: What type of support group could help you achieve your current recovery goals?
Leigh Smith is director of studies, course designer and tutor at Heartwood Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy Training. Visit www.heartwoodcounselling.org or call 01803 865464.
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A social renewal shake-up NOVEMBER 4 will see a one day conference held in the Great Hall of the Darlington Estate, home to many important social and economic initiatives in the last 100 years. ‘Beyond Crisis’ will present some creative ideas, some radical, on social renewal. New ideas are desperately needed which, when implemented, take us beyond the unhealthy stumbling from one crisis to the next, both nationally and internationally. A group of people living in the Totnes area of Devon have been planning this event for some time and have now got the support of the Dartington Trust via CEO Rhoderi Samuel, and a range of speakers, some drawn from circles where
Rudolf Steiner’s groundbreaking ideas are studied, but not exclusively so. 2017 is the 100th anniversary of the time when Steiner began to present his radical ideas for a society where freedom, equality and fraternity live in a true balance. The Conference will contain some shorter main Contributions but with good scope for much smaller group work, culminating in a final Plenum session. The day is open to anyone who wishes to be challenged by ideas beyond the mainstream views of life. The cost is £55 and more details for booking are on the web-site: www.dartington.org/ what’s-on via email: boxoffice@ dartington.org .
Lotus training for mindfulness
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HAT is wellbeing? According to Lotus Training, it is an expansive state of presence, compassion, joy and peace. And they key to achieving this, they believe, is to develop mindfulness and open-heartedness. The centre runs counselling courses that have mindfulness at their heart, as well as teaching mindfulness practice. Lotus defines mindfulness as “paying attention and being present with what is happening in an accepting and spacious way”. Director, Julie Jeffs said: “We are interested in training people who believe in putting relationship at
the centre of their work. All of our courses (Level 2, 3, 4 and 5) are about learning to trust in the client’s own inborn capacity for selfhealing. We appreciate that you can learn skills and techniques but unless you can learn to be present with yourself how can you learn to be with another?” Lotus Training’s Counselling courses, which are accredited by CPCAB, use personal development and Mindfulness alongside an exploration of the theoretical concepts of human relationship. Julie added: “Our contemporary approach to mindfulness is based on Buddhist
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psychology and practice, which is over 2,000 years old and yet integrates well within a human perspective on the value and potential of the self and a deep respect for the process of individuation.” The centre believes that a conducive learning environment is crucial as it enhances the process. Its training rooms are designed to convey a sense peace, containment and safety. Students are trained by experienced practitioners who have been working in the field of counselling for over twenty years. “Our aim is to create the conditions for growth where students can flourish and become the best they can be both personally and professionally,” said Julie. l For more information call 01752 560002 or visit www. lotustrainingco.co.uk
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WELLBEING
A life changing opportunity AFTER overcoming his own blindness using vision exercises, Meir Schneider now works with people affected by major visual and physical disabilities, such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, paralysis (due to a range of causes), diabetes, chronic back pain and many others. There are many examples of Meir achieving extraordinary results with paralysis and he also supports people with less serious conditions including near-sightedness, far-sightedness and backache. Meir is the founder of the School for Self-healing, and has been lecturing, teaching and working with thousands of clients around the world for over four decades. This October – from 17 to 20 – he is coming to Devon for a lecture and workshop at Dartington Hall near Totnes. Val Watson, who has organised the visit, commented: “It is very exciting that Meir Schneider is visiting us in Devon. He works and lectures all around the world and has demonstrated that, while the body has over 600 muscles most of us over-use only 50 of these in repetitive movements. Meir will demonstrate how to work with muscles you’ve never used before to improve the function of your entire body. After visiting us here he is going on to speak at the International Holistic Vision Conference before travelling to Germany, Italy and Spain. This is
Real food, Real life,
Real health Classes Targeted advice Books Eating plans Free resources Online courses Healthy recipe blog 1-2-1, online, phone/Skype ME, gut disorders, mental health nutrition, cancer recovery & weight management.
email: enquiries@trinityholistics.co.uk a rare and potentially life-changing opportunity to find out more about Meir’s unique healing processes.” On Tuesday October 17, his lecture A Guide for Self-Healing will teach the foundations of using movement, massage and relaxation to address pathologies and improve health. A two-day workshop from October 18-19 called Natural Vision Improvement & Self-Healing Through Movement will teach techniques to support people to get rid of their glasses, recover from computer eyestrain, prevent cataracts, and address many other vision issues without surgery. The second day focuses on eliminating chronic pain, such as joint or back pain with practical exercises to do at home. The lecture costs £15. The workshops are £100 for one day or £180 for both. Participants should bring food to share and comfortable clothes. To register contact Val Watson on 01803 866038 or valeriejean@hotmail.co.uk. For more details about Meir Schneider’s work visit: www.self-healing.org
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Jane Hutton The Functional Foodie
T: 07841 344934
Gently surrendering to the dark
freedom to work when WHAT tender, nurturing dreams you want (all of the will you breathe into time!), the freedom to life in your future, work from home (let asks psychic reader, me out!), the freedom Bell Bartlett. “As we to live without paid gather in the Autumn, holidays and not know gently surrendering how much you may ourselves to the dark earn this week… yes, of the year, what it’s a blast! However, nuggets of bright help is at hand.” beauty, truth and The help Bell is Bell Bartlett imagination will carry referring to includes her us forward?” She said. extraordinary ability to provide In her work, Bell regularly meets information and point out choices courageous people who are willing and behaviours that will be to take positive actions in support constructive and enabling. “I can of their dreams. She explained: show you the best way forward “Sometimes this means taking a or how things would work out risk in order to follow our hearts, if you made a particular choice. always it is choosing to create In relation to dreams, it’s worth something better and occasionally considering what information it is understanding the need to let you need in order to enable your go of something or someone and dream to become reality and what make a fresh start.” decisions you need to make. If it Bell describes feeling her fears would be helpful to see the long “ganging up” on her three years view, I can help you to ground ago when she decided to work as that dream, build a foundation a psychic reader full time and give and choose positive, heartfelt up her other job. Thankfully, she structures of thought, action and ignored them and took the plunge. imagination.” “In my role as a psychic reader, I For more information call Bell meet many other people who are on 07796 900509 or visit www. self-employed,” said Bell. “Ah, the joys of self-employment - the conscious-tarot.co.uk
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Andy Thompson, Clin. Hom, Dip. B.F.D. ‘Helping you to heal yourself’
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WELLBEING Healing and relaxing sound waves of the gongs PAULA Bowen-Scott would like you to join her for a meditation journey using the timeless, healing and relaxing sound waves of the gongs.
I
F YOU would like to experience Sound Meditation and relaxation, then why not come and join me and be bathed in the sacred sounds of the Gongs and other complementary instruments. During the gong bath you will be immersed in the powerful sound waves created by the gongs, enabling the body and mind to relax and release any stress and tension. All you have to do is lie down and let the gongs do
the work as they take you into a state of deep contemplative meditation. Just bring something to lie on, a cushion/ pillow for your head, and a blanket to keep you warm. Water is also a good idea. Sessions are held near Bovey Tracey (currently at Yurtcamp) on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday each month at 7pm, and in Chudleigh on the last Saturday each month at 3pm in the Town Hall. If you would like to join other sound lovers, please contact me, Paula, on 07956 028631 or email paula-bs@hotmail.co.uk, or you can find more info on my Meetup pages, see Newton Abbot or Chudleigh Gong Bath & Sound Meditation.
Elly offers a chance to explore the elder
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once I succumbed to TORYTELLER educator and the grief, something mindfulness shifted inside me,” practitioner, Elly she explained. Elly Crichton Stuart is took a sabbatical and inviting people in the moved to Findhorn. “I second half of life who discovered a different feel drawn towards way of being, learnt a different way of how to deal with living to participate in difficulties through nonExploring the Elder. violent communication This series of six and got to practice Elly Crichton Stuart half-day workshops, through living and starting on Saturday 28 October, working in community. Later, I was from 10am to 1pm, and running drawn to Totnes by the beauty of until Saturday 2 December is aimed the landscape and the vibrancy of at people in their mid 50s and the place. People are open to new beyond. ideas here and there is a really healthy curiosity regarding different Elly said: “I believe we move into ways of doing things. Exploring the a different phase at this point in Elder is part of that.” our lives, and life can become more meaningful - less about doing Elly was first invited to participate and more about being. During in an Elders’ breakfast in 2011 and the workshop we will look at the was recently a staff Elder at The Art of stories we live by, practices that can Mentoring camp on Dartmoor where support us, what nurtures us and 320 people of all ages came together. how we make peace with ourselves. We will examine questions that arise Exploring the Elder costs £175 (concession £150) for six Saturday mornings. for us and storytelling, that great teacher, will serve as a mirror.” For more information email: ellycstuart@gmail.com, call 01803 Elly was inspired to begin this work 847986 or text 07518 908179 or following the sudden death of her husband. “It was a tough time, but see www.ellystoryteller.com
Working in synergy with the body AROMATHERAPY… It is one of the most popular and universal of all therapeutic treatments but what exactly is it? It is defined as the application of powerful therapeutic plant oils which treat both body and mind. Many of these oils have been used for thousands of years to treat different ailments. Aromatherapist, Annie Stone said: “Aromatherapy oils are very strong, so the therapist only uses a small amount in a carrier oil. All the oils are antiseptic and have been scientifically proven to strengthen the immune system, relax the mind and work in synergy with the human body. They are absorbed by your nose into the nervous system – affecting
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emotions and memory.” The oils penetrate the body, literally and stay there for between a day and a week, depending on the oils used, carrying on their good work. Therapists mix together the most appropriate oils on the day – a bit like a personal prescription. Massages can be on the face, legs and/or feet, hands (up to the elbow), back or the whole body. Annie practices at Poppadums in Dawlish and Star Cuts in Starcross. She is offering a special offer price of £20 on back and shoulder massages for all Reconnect readers, valid until 30 November. To book call 07890 877986.
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WELLBEING What is orgasm and how can it heal you? Sexological Bodyworker and Sexual Empowerment Coach CATHERINE HALE explores one of our body’s most powerful energies.
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RGASMIC energy is one of the most powerful energies you can experience in your body. We all know the familiar build up of energy as orgasm arises in our bodies and that at the moment of orgasm this energy moves through our bodies leaving us feeling the release of this force. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to use that energy for more than just the feeling of release and pleasure? And to explore what it would be like to feel that energy flood through your body not just in your genitals. Unless you’ve explored the more Tantric aspects of your sexuality its likely that orgasm has been more of a feeling of release rather than access to power for healing and transformation. I want to get clear on what orgasm is. In a male body orgasm and ejaculation tend to occur at the same time, and are often considered to be one experience. However ejaculation is the release of seminal fluid, and orgasm is the release of energy, and they can occur as totally separate events. In a female body orgasm and ejaculation (yes women can ejaculate but that’s for another article!) tend to happen separately and again orgasm is the release of energy through the body. Mostly people, regardless of which body they are in, tend to experience orgasm in the genitals which can range from feelings of an explosion to a small sneeze experience often accompanied with waves of pleasure and bliss, but not always. Stimulation of the female clitoris creates a peak orgasmic experience, as does an orgasm accompanied by an ejaculation in a male body, characterised by the ‘cuddle’ hormone oxytocin and the reward neurotransmitter dopamine surging through the body until the peak of orgasm is reached. After this they both dramatically drop as prolactin sharply rises, which has the effect of relieving sexual arousal thus taking your mind off sex. An alternative to this experience is having more wave like orgasms, in a female body these often arise in the clitoris, the vagina, the cervix, the g-spot, the womb, and the anus, each with its own distinct signature. In a male body these wave-like orgasms arise when a man learns to separate orgasm from ejaculation, thus moving from the peak experiences of orgasm into more expansive and full-bodied orgasms. With appropriate guidance and support, such as through Tantra workshops or 1:1 sessions with a practitioner or an experienced lover, we can open our bodies to new sexual experiences thus increasing our sexual repertoire and ultimately feeling more pleasure. In Tantra we refer to a practice called sex magic, where we use the energy we create through our sexual practices, such as self-pleasure and lovemaking, to create transformation in our lives. If you are in need of healing, maybe a painful breakup, or ill health has happened for you, orgasmic energy can be directed towards this to create healing and transformation. We can attach our healing needs and what we want to manifest, to our orgasmic energy before we release it, thus empowering our capacity to create what it is we want for ourselves, for our relationships, for our family and our entire community, local and global!! Next time you are moving into engaging with your sexual energy, get clear on what you want to manifest in your life, at the point or orgasm give all that energy to your vision with 100% conviction it will work, then watch as your world becomes the one you’ve chosen to create, not one where you are powerless. In Totnes and London I offer orgasmic coaching sessions, body orgasm sessions and workshops along with a wide range of other support designed to assist you in becoming a sexually empowered being. Contact Catherine via email on catherine@tantricawakening.org and see her website at www.tantricawakening.org
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Devon School of Reiki Providing High Quality Usui/Holy Fire Reiki Training & Treatments Courses for Children, Workshops & 1-2-1 tuition also available Next classes with availability: Usui / Holy Fire Reiki I - 31 October and 2 December Usui / Holy Fire Reiki II (Practitioner Level) - 22/23 November For further information on classes, contact: Sam Goddard, Principal 07870 167701 • info@devonschoolofreiki.co.uk
Exeter • Tedburn St Mary • Plymouth • South Molton www.devonschoolofreiki.co.uk www.reikirascals.com
TERESA WICKSTEED Sound Healing Practitioner
07968 941854 www.teresawicksteed.co.uk teresa@teresawicksteed.co.uk www.collegeofsoundhealing.co.uk
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WELLBEING Coming home - aura mediator course to be held in Devon COMING home is how Sarah Jennings describes the Aura Mediator Course that is taking place in Exeter early next year. Sarah, who runs Dare to Be, is an advocate of the life-changing potential of AuraTransformation. She told Reconnect how this approach helped her get her life back on track and led her to want to do the same for others….
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EING disconnected from your purpose and your body, believing that you are not at home on this planet, can leave you with a sense of unhappiness and unfulfillment. You might find yourself with no energy to act on your dreams, unable to use your gifts and talents, feeling disheartened and as if you’re just going through the motions. There is another way and I am living it! I have been based in Exeter for a year, but have been AuraTransforming people all over the UK, South Africa and Switzerland for the last four years. AuraTransformation changed my life. I knew I had healing abilities but it gave me the structure and format to really make a great and consistent impact. It proved to be exactly what I needed to get my life back on track after years of wandering lost. Now my story of transformation and the
power of AuraTransformation is changing other people’s lives too. A client recently said: “I have worked with all kinds of spiritual leaders and gurus around the world and Sarah’s wisdom and presence blows them out of the water, she is like nothing else and will empower you to do the same.” It works like this. An AuraTransformation is a permanent upgrade of your aura which allows you, over time to “come home” to yourself, according to Danish founder, Anni Sennov. The treatment lasts three and a half to four hours and provides clarity in your consciousness and an expansion of your perspectives. Having a fresh energetic start and living your truth has a tremendous impact on productivity, focus, and feelings of wellbeing and joy, which is great for work, and for your family and home life.
The next UK-based Aura Mediator Course will be held in Exeter from January 26--29 2018, It will be taught by Sue Jonas Dupuis and observed by me. Everyone who trains to be an Aura Mediator needs to undergo an AuraTransformation first, ideally a few months before their training, so if you’re thinking of signing up for the course, please get in touch to arrange your session. Joelle Le Feuve from Liverpool, who trained last year, said: “I am over the moon with how it’s opened new world to me.” For more information about the Aura Mediator Course, visit: https://auratransformation. com/the-aura-mediator-courses/ Information about AuraTransformation treatments is available at www.withsarahj. com Email: daretobe@ withsarahj.com or call 07812 571141
MINDFULNESS
COURSES IN PLYMOUTH SAT MORNING OF MINDFULNESS
28TH OCTOBER AND 11TH NOVEMBER, 10AM - 12.30PM
WEEKEND MINDFULNESS RETREAT FOR WOMEN SPRING 2018
8-WEEK MINDFULNESS COURSE (FOR HEALTH AND WELLBEING) FEB AND MAY 2018
INDIVIDUAL MINDFULNESS SESSIONS AVAILABLE ON REQUEST
BOOK YOUR PLACE ON-LINE www.barefootmindfulness.co.uk T: 01752 777239 E: mindful@barefootmindfulness.co.uk A: 1 Officers Quarters, Crownhill Fort, Plymouth PL6 5BX
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WELLBEING Are you seeking change this autumn? OUR outer world is changing, the leaves are starting to fall and the light is fading. At the same time, our inner world can also be calling for change, so it is no accident that Autumn is the time of the new academic year. Iron Mill College in Exeter is offering a wide range of new training programmes in mental health and wellbeing to satisfy this urge to develop and grow. The Certificate in Counselling has both weekday and weekend study options starting October. It is open to participants seeking personal or professional development and has recently achieved ‘Quality Checked’ status with the National Counselling Society. Another entry level course is the Transactional Analysis Psychotherapy Foundation Course, which is a weekend course that introduces the key concepts of Transactional Analysis (TA). Developed by psychiatrist Eric Berne, TA is a modern form
of psychology that explores a person’s relationships and interactions. It is accredited by the UK Association for Transactional Analysis (UKATA) and starts in November. The Level 7 Postgraduate Certificate in Supervision is ideal for anyone whose role includes supervision, including people in health, education and social services. It runs on weekends, starting October, and is validated by University of Worcester. For more information about these and other courses visit: www. ironmill.co.uk. Call 01392 219200 or email enquiries@ironmill.co.uk.
Creams, lotions, balms, toothpaste, facial scrubs, baths salts, bath bombs, floral water sprays & lip balms.
Following her passion to help others
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EN years into a career as a magazine publisher, Emily Hutchings decided to take the plunge and follow her passion for massage and reflexology. She had been the recipient of holistic therapies during a pressurised commercial career and had experience the benefits at firsthand. Emily was eager to help others to improve their wellbeing in the same way that she had been helped to nurture herself. She said: “I believe in practising holistically, focusing on both physical and emotional needs and creating a balance between the mind and the body. I have undergone extensive training and hold a diploma in reflexology and various diplomas in holistic massage. I also have post-graduate qualifications in: deep tissue massage, maternity reflexology, fertility reflexology, pregnancy and labour massage, five element reflexology and spinal reflexology. “I am constantly seeking to expand my learning and am currently in my final year of studying for my BSC Hons. degree in Acupuncture. I can now use Chinese Medicine theory and practice to enhance my treatments.” Alongside her professional training, Emily incorporates firsthand experience as a mother to guide people on their journey through conception, pregnancy and parenthood. One client, who had suffered from dysmenorrhoea (painful periods) since the age of 12, found Emily’s treatment to be life-changing. She said: “I got to a point in my late 30s where I didn’t know what else to do. I was fortunate to find Emily and over the course of nearly a year my life has changed for the better. Thanks to Emily’s reflexology treatments, I am in significantly less pain and take less analgesia each month.
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I am able to function when I am menstruating as opposed to curling up and wishing the pain would end.” Another said: “I instantly felt comfortable with Emily from the very first session. She takes great care in ensuring that she understands what your needs are. Her touch is soft but strong, I always left feeling amazing at the end of each session.” Emily works with people undergoing IVF, which can be a stressful and difficult time. One client commented: “Her knowledge and advice was very helpful and totally put me at ease and helped me on my journey through IVF’.” Emily is a member of several professional bodies including the AOR, CTha and CNHC. She has recently moved from London to South Devon and is looking forward to building her practice. Emily runs a loyalty card scheme whereby if you book or receive four treatments you receive your fifth for free. For more information visit: www.emilyjanetherapies.co.uk or email: emily@emilyjanetherapies. co.uk. Emily can be found at The Haven clinic in Ashburton 01364 654954
Come Home to Your Body Sexuality is central to our wellbeing. I offer support with sexual & rela?onal challenges, premature ejacula?on, trauma, & scar ?ssue healing from birth injuries and pelvic surgery I use Soma?c Coaching, Body-Work and Energy-Work to facilitate embodied living and loving
1:1 healing sessions Totnes and London Workshops Totnes and London Individual retreats Totnes
catherine@tantricawakening.org
www.tantricawakening.org
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WELLBEING Connect with your inner wild this autumn
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their curiosity. A year later, we’re ANT to awaken your inner wild this Autumn? expanding our offering with our new Wild Thing Workshops offering a The Devon School of Reiki is mix of different activities to promote launching a range of courses designed self-nurture and creative exploration. to awaken our creativity and boost our The focus is seasonal, relaxed, wellbeing. The School’s new Creative experimental and a little bit wild.” Director, Hannah Blunt, explained: Workshops are held in Devon School “It is important to take the time to of Reiki’s garden Studio in Tedburn nurture ourselves. Around a year St Mary, near Exeter. This peaceful ago, we started holding an informal and therapeutic space also hosts the monthly group for just this reason. We school’s Reiki courses, treatments, and found that people loved having the other therapies. chance to take time out and reconnect with themselves, their creativity and The workshops are: Oct 6: Tea & Exploring your Cards 10am-12pm. Oct 19: Seasonal Skincare with The Little Wild. Time TBC. Nov 1: Tea & Self-nurture (National Stress Awareness Day) 10am-12pm. Nov 13: Seasonal Hand Tied Flowers 11.30am-1.30pm. Dec 1: Tea & Sound Healing 10am-12pm. Dec 4: Christmas Folk Art Workshop 10am-1pm. Dec 11: Seasonal Wild Wreath Workshop 11.30am-1.30pm. To book or find out more, visit: www.wildthingworkshops.com or email: hannah@devonschoolofreiki.co.uk
FESTIVE! For Reiki courses, visit: www.devonschoolofreiki.co.uk
THE NEXT (DEC/JAN) ISSUE OF RECONNECT IS A FESTIVE & SOLSTICE SPECIAL! Our hugely popular annual joyous celebration of the new year and the winter season approaches - Email editor@reconnectonline.co.uk to be a part of it!
Write to Freedom is an award winning charity working with people in recovery from addiction and alcoholism using creative writing, nature connection and personal inquiry to support stronger, more meaningful and resilient lives. Retreats are held at High Heathercombe, Dartmoor. A powerful, peaceful and inspiring place to reflect, reconnect and recharge. We have a few places left for our final retreat of 2017 November 21st -23rd. Fee: £350. Including accommodation, teaching and tasty, wholesome, organic food. Sliding scale and bursaries available. Ongoing group and one to one mentoring available post retreat. Contact Ben Ford | ben@writetofreedom.org.uk | 07891 392 334
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If the phones are smart, what about me? The mindful man CASPAR WALSH, author, poet, journalist and founder of Words from the Earth considers whether it’s a good idea for him to get a smartphone.
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HERE are a line of school kids walking single file, each holding a smartphone, head down walking blindly forward. The tagline beneath: ‘The Zombie Apocalypse is Here.’ I saw that on a social media site some time ago. And as I write, I’m considering getting my first smartphone. Am I insane? Do I want to become the living dead? Why, with a long and ragged history of addictive behaviour, would I even be thinking about buying one? I’ve staunchly, at times smugly, denied smartphones in my life because I’m an addict. An addict in recovery from drug and alcohol right through to box set watching and Mulu chocolate munching. When I’m at my desk I check emails, surf social media, look for music and scroll through news far too often. Anything to distract me from the real work. Surely if I had access to all that on the move, I’d be constantly checking, clicking and losing myself in the matrix? I’ve stayed true to my old school candy bar phones for the last 18 years, knowing that there are enough smartphone acolytes around me in any given moment, if I need some instant info all I have to do is ask. Back in the days of being single I signed up to a dating agency. I clicked yes to receiving text alerts when I got views to my profile page. By the end of the first day I was in an alarmingly jittery state of anticipation every time my phone pinged in a text. The dopamine triggers from smartphones are well documented. It’s all about compulsive reward
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anticipation. Our very own hand held short-term anxiety elixirs. We humans don’t like being alone with our thoughts. A research project revealed that the subjects would rather a mild electric shock than doing nothing in a room for 15 minutes. Even my most mindful, earth loving, vegan, hippy friends swear by their smart tech. With wonder filled eyes they try to convince me how much it has changed their lives. But my candybar has turned out to be a false economy, is strip mining the earth’s resources and fleecing the makers. Their infuriating built-in obsolescence means I’m buying one every year or so. So I have, with some degree of anxiety, decided to go down the Fairphone, low radiation route (righteousness cannot be fully eradicated). I’m about to invest in a phone I can apparently fix myself, that’s less harmful to the earth, fairer to the makers and gentler on the users. Knowing my child-like hunger for dopamine, can I possibly use it mindfully and let it serve me rather than me, it? I guess I can always switch off my internet connection, stick to calls and texts. Stay righteous and free from the hooded claw of tech. I can do that… can’t I? l See the advert on the left for information on the Write to Freedom addiction recovery retreat.
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WELLBEING FOUNDER of The School of Energy Healing and one of the first people in the UK to The Human Energy Part Field graduate from The Barbara Brennan School of Healing in America, Marc Blausten shares his insights into the Human Energy Field, starting with the Chakras…… one
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HAKRAS are our means of communicating and relating to the world. Every interaction that we have - whether it is with another person, animal, plant or even an inanimate object - involves an exchange of energy and this happens through the chakras. It is how we receive energy from the people and environment around us, and how we express our energy out into the world. The word “Chakra” is ancient Sanskrit, meaning ‘spinning wheel of light’. Chakras have a vortex shape that looks like water going down a plughole, with the tip of the funnel shape pointing towards the body. The word is generally associated with the seven major chakras along the spine that hold different aspects of consciousness and personality, but there are many other minor chakras all over the body. In fact, there are chakras at every joint, orifice and acupuncture point. Our chakras are living, breathing, pulsating, colour changing, responsive and interactive! They are not really either ‘open’ or ‘closed’, but in a constant state of dynamic flux and change, expanding and contracting as we respond to our perceptions of the world around us. If a chakra was really ‘closed’ then the associated body organ would fail and we would be in a critical condition. However deposits of old emotional energy, as well as patterns of tension and constriction, can cause restrictions
to the flow of energy through a chakra. This results in other chakras having to compensate and do more work and, in this way, the whole system can become unbalanced and stressed. Each chakra has a series of screens or filters that ‘digest’ the ‘raw’ energy that we receive into a form that is nurturing for us. You could also say that this is our protection or line of defence - part of the immune system - but due to various traumatic or toxic events that have happened in our life, these screens can become torn or damaged. The end result can be too much energy coming into our system, so that we become overwhelmed and stressed. Or a chakra might leak energy, causing the associated body organs and glands to become depleted. Energy Healing uses a variety of techniques to clean, repair, balance and energise the chakras. In this way we can heal the wounds of the past, and become fully present to our health and vitality. Marc sees clients in Totnes, Plymouth, Exeter and Online. www.healingandhomeopathy. 57 East Street, Ashbruton com Tel : 0333 433 0454 A NURTURING SPACE FOR WOMEN In the next issue he will look at the Seven Levels of Offering: Lomi lomi, abdominal sacral and Myofacial release Consciousness. massage; Metamorphic technique; working with menstrual, menopausal and hormonal issues. 07966 931416
lilmae@hotmail.co.uk
www.lilahmclean.co.uk
Maren Freeland - offers the tools to reconnect with your untamed nature.
Discovering your untamed self
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ECLAIMING your untamed self is the aim of Maren Freeland, founder of the Untamed Social Enterprise. She is seeking to counteract what she sees as modern society’s widespread “disconnection dis-ease” by offering outdoor experiences that nourish, empower and help the participants feel more alive. Untamed is running a three month mentorship programme for women, starting in February 2018. It was created by Maren who runs women’s retreats. She was inspired by the magic that happens when women come together and discover the power of reconnecting with nature, and the possibility of transformation when they uncover their innate wisdom. It is the second time that Maren has run the mentorship programme. Emma was a participant on the first programme. She said: “Maren is making important work happen in the world and she is doing it in a wonderful and inspiring place at Landmatters Permaculture Community near Totnes. The programme opened up much-needed spaces in my life over a period of three months. It
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was very well designed with three whole workshop days, three evening ‘temple time’ sessions, a monthly one-to-one mentoring session with Maren and the final weekend which included an overnighter and a ceremony for each woman. I feel honoured to have taken part, the experience is one of the most beautiful and memorable in my life. It was so moving to share such depths of vulnerability and strength with other women.” There are very limited places on this group programme, which runs from February to May. Potential participants can book a free 45-minute discovery session. For details visit: www.untamed.org.uk/ mentorship-program-for-women There will also be a chance for women to sample the spirit of Untamed by booking onto an Earth Connection day at Landmatters and even children can benefit at the weekly Untamed naturebased learning group. For more information visit www. untamed.org.uk or contact: marenfreeland@gmail.com, 07906 399990.
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WELLBEING Jay and Angela create retreat space
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Somatic Movement Education in Body-mind Centering® Exploring the dynamic relationship between body and mind Individual Lessons, workshops and courses in Body-mind Centering® with Rosalyn Maynard MA BMCA. Rosalyn is certified by the School for Body-mind Centering®. She has been practising and teaching somatics for over twenty years.
www.tsoel.org.uk | rosalynjmaynard@gmail.com | 07966 403 574
Would you like to employ Sherlock Holmes on your health case? Try the next best thing and consult an experienced homeopath with a sense of humour and 3000 remedies to find your perfect match. Put us all in the same place at the same time and the results could be unimaginable!
Whatever your health dilemma, give Homeopathy a whirl in 2017 Jacki Becker RSHom
jackibeckerhomeopath.co.uk (Totnes) t: 01803 867747 m: 07792 059 867
AY Ramsay, the psychotherapist and poet (see the Classified Ads) is moving to Staverton with a new vision. Together with his partner Angela Warren, they are offering the Bothy at Sweet William cottage, near St. Paul de Leon church, as a retreat space next to the Dartington Estate. Available for anyone needing peace in nature and to be creative in this unique location with river and woodland walks on the doorstep. This can be a day, or several days, up to a week or longer by arrangement: please contact Angela via www. sweetwilliambothy.co.uk They will both be offering their therapeutic work there as well as workshops with various teachers in a large garden that borders on the woods and the river below. Jay said: ”I’ve always been interested in the idea of a sanctuary where people can come for rest as well as inspiration and renewal, but it always seemed too big and out of reach until I realized that with the right kind of place you can do it from home. This is what we’re doing with The Bothy at Sweet William and I see it as one flame among many that are lighting up now because, with the world as it is, our need for such places is very real. It’s also about how we can be effective in the world as a result of having these needs met. We’re all
too frazzled otherwise, we hardly have the time for each other let alone ourselves, and this is way out of balance.” Jay, originally from London, cofounded the Angels of Fire radical poetry collective there in 1983 and has organized events over many years, most recently Writing on the Wall on the Southbank back in June. He is also a teacher at Schumacher College offering short and year long courses. A very experienced and highly-regarded therapist, he says he is looking forward to being more involved in the community. See www.jayramsay.co.uk for his contact details.
Women at their peak Try something different… Education & Training in Mental Health & Wellbeing in Exeter Part-time courses starting October / November 2017:
Certificate in Counselling: Our rewarding 12 day entry level course is Quality Checked by the NCS. TA Psychotherapy Foundation Course: A fantastic 18 day introductory course in Transactional Analysis (TA), accredited by UKATA.
Postgraduate Certificate in Supervision: A modern 17 day Level 7 course validated by University of Worcester. Or learn about 2018 courses at our Open Eve - Wed 15th Nov
For further information or to apply: 01392 219200 / enquiries@ironmill.co.uk
www.ironmill.co.uk
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LILAH McLean of Persephone’s therapy rooms at Ashburton, talks about her support for those women in their menopause years.
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love this time of year with the promise of more darkness and less frenetic energy– the harvest is nearly in save a last crop of rosehips and a late burst of rhubarb. And now my son is happily back at school I am
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focusing my attention on my shop, Persephone’s, in Ashburton where a small community of women are gathering. I’m hearing an increasing call for deep nurturing in the later part of a woman’s feminine years – the menopause. This is a subject close to my heart as I study and experiment with natural estrogenics, not only to ease the transformation of my body but to bring renewed energy and vitality to my life. Rosemary, fennel, fenugreek – preparations that our forebears knew how to use in order to keep the skin, hair, sight and mind vital as we enter our full ripeness. Like the harvest we are at our peak. So, wherever you are on that spectrum (peri or post) you are welcome to join a small group of women who are going to meet monthly to support each other and investigate how to live in full richness in their menopause years. And beyond that I offer deep abdominal massage, which fully supports the many issues that women encounter at this time. If you are interested the give me a call – you will find my details at www.lilahmclean.co.uk
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WELLBEING Support on a pathway to healing
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NHERENT Wellbeing… What does it mean to you? According to Gwen Channer, it manifests as being strong, centred and resilient and experiencing joy in your life even when challenges come your way. Gwen, who has recently returned to Devon after a 21-year stint in Australia, named her practice Inherent Wellbeing because she reconnects people who are feeling lost to their inner truth and spirit. She said: “You might be feeling challenged or even in crisis. Maybe you have “hit a brick wall”, been “knocked off course” or feel you really “ought” to be happy but you are not. Whether your disconnection expresses physically (as pain, discomfort, illness) mentally/emotionally (as anxiety, stress, addictive behaviour) or just as a gnawing undercurrent of dissatisfaction it can be transformed with the right support. The practice of Inherent Wellbeing is about reconnecting people with their inner truth and spirit, shifting them out of dysfunctional patterns into alignment with a love of life and an expanded awareness of themselves and what brings them fulfilment.” Gwen has an innate ability to spot patterns that do not serve her clients. She then supports them on a
H o l i st i c a n d d e e p t i ss u e m assag e
pathway to health, wholeness and wellbeing. Clients report having powerful breakthroughs, experiencing a raised state of consciousness and being able to resolve issues and accomplish goals much more effectively. Many say they are happier, more content and comfortable with who and where they are. Gwen is offering an introductory offer for the first 10 clients to sign up, with three sessions for only £25 each. Visit: inherentwellbeing.com for more details. Young people enjoying their time with Sirona’s horses. Photo by Shaun Derioz
R e f l e xo lo gy m at e R n i t y / f e Rt i l i t y R e f l e xo lo gy a n d m assag e
Rejuvenating treatments focusing on your physical and emotional needs, balancing mind and body. Personalised treatments combining massage and reflexology. Contact: 0 7 7 8 8 2 8 6 2 1 6 emily@emilyjanetherapies.co.uk www.emilyjanetherapies.co.uk
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Equine healing moves to a new home
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HE pressure is on for Sirona Therapeutic Horsemanship CIO to move into new premises in Dartington after its current site in Seale Hayne, near Newton Abbot is shortly to be developed for housing. The charity was delighted to be offered space on the Dartington estate and has now been granted planning permission but there is still a long way to go, as Dr. Hannah Burgon, founder & CEO, explained: “The new site is an empty field at the moment so we have a lot of money to raise and a lot of work to do before we can move in. Our seven horses, our staff and of course all of our participants are relying on us, so we are working hard to make it happen.” As well as applying for various loans and grants, Sirona is launching a crowdfunding campaign to support its move to a new home. The charity provides therapeutic and educational activities to young people with additional support needs including those who struggle in formal education, with mental health issues, autism spectrum, ADHD and other disadvantages. In Therapeutic Horsemanship sessions, participants take part in educational and therapeutic activities centred around learning about horse care and management within a natural horsemanship approach. Sirona also offers Equine-Assisted Therapy session, as well as the City and Guilds Level 1 and 2 in Horse Care in partnership with Duchy College. This enables young people to progress onto gaining an accredited qualification, thereby improving their educational opportunities. To support the crowdfunding campaign, visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/sirona For information about Sirona’s work visit: www.sironaequine.org.uk
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WELLBEING Kate asks if you are content with your content THERE is a lot of talk about the importance of content for all types of businesses. You might have heard the term “content marketing” and maybe you’ve wondered what on earth it means. When she’s not being Reconnect’s Wellbeing Editor, Kate Philbin runs Café Copywriting, which provides commercial writing, training and mentoring. Kate explains why businesses of all types, and especially heart-centred businesses, need good content… and how to go about creating it.
Mark Wright
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ONTENT is just another word for information. It is the way that we communicate who we are, what we do and why we do it. There are skilled content creators and some who are rather less skilled. We live in a world of information overload so it’s a good idea to try and be as skilful as possible in the information you share. There are two ways to do this – creating and curating. It’s a good idea to do both, if you can. Creating content means generating information that is fresh, new and unique to you. You might write an article or a blog post. You might post something on Facebook or create a newsletter. Curating content means finding information that other people have written which resonates with your own thoughts and ideas and sharing it with people who you think will be interested. It is quicker than creating your own content from scratch and, providing that it aligns with your core values and is of high quality, curating content is a great thing to do. If it interests you it will probably interest your clients. If you think there is something in it worth sharing, it is generous to share it. Social media is sometimes accused of creating “a culture of hot air”, but if you think about it differently it
Contemplative psychotherapy Exeter and Totnes watermarktherapy.net 07799 226989
is simply a way of talking to lots of different people. What you choose to talk about is up to you. As a good rule of thumb, whether you’re creating or curating content, ask yourself if the information you’re sharing is useful, informative, inspiring, thoughtprovoking or helpful. Maybe imagine standing in the shoes of the person you’d like to read it. If you were that person, would reading this feel like time wellspent? Would your life be better as a result of reading it? Would you know something that you didn’t know before that was helpful to you? If you’d like to find out more about creating good content, I am running a workshop called Writing for Social Media: The Essentials alongside Katie Whitehouse on Saturday 21 October from 10am to 5pm. For more information call Kate on 07970 107123 or Katie on 07832 200980. Visit their website at www. cafecopywriter. com/events
Balance with body-mind centering
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T CAN be a challenge to live our lives as thoughtfully and sensitively as we might like to. The question is how can we find the inner quiet and stillness that so many of us yearn for and rediscover our natural sense of ease? Body-Mind Centering (BMC) is a way of re-establishing balance and tranquillity through gentle guided exercise and hands-on touch and dialogue. It can help people recovering from injury, illness, trauma or stress. Rosalyn Maynard trained with the school for Body-Mind Centering and has over 20 years’ experience of teaching in the community, state and private sector. She is the founder and principle teacher of SOEL (School of Experiential Learning) and offers annual courses in Experiential Anatomy, as well as a regular workshop programme “Saturday Somatics” and one-to-one lessons. She hears people describe their experience of BMC in many different ways, including “letting go consciously” and “feeling softer”. Rosalyn explained: “Through simple guided activities to develop more supportive movement patterns, alongside gentle hands-on touch, BMC creates an impetus for
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change. This approach supports our bodyminds to sense our way through distress to greater ease and wellbeing. “People also describe how BMC brings about a sense of increased self-awareness and that slowing the pace of life “allows time and space to be able to respond to what is happening in the present moment; a sense of unfolding discovery.” One recent workshop participant commented: “Now I am more conscious of discomfort and of how I constrain myself… and I understand better how I can move and hold myself in order to ease discomfort, move more freely and feel more free and relaxed. I notice how I react to situations emotionally in my body, and am starting to be able to read this information, allowing me to choose how I respond to these situations.” Rosalyn concluded: “Satish Kumar famously said: “I think that speed is one of the curses of our civilisation… there is a great need for us to slow down.”BMC is a highly effective way for us to do that.” For more information visit www. tsoel.org.uk or contact Rosalyn directly: rosalynjmaynard@gmail. com
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WELLBEING Awareness and the kinesthetic sense
HEALING AND HOMEOPATHY
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HRONIC pain from old horse-riding and other sports injuries brought The Feldenkrais Method to Nikhila Ludlow’s attention in the mid 1990s. An educational model rather than a medical one, Feldenkrais is known for its effectiveness with all kinds of musculo-skeletal problems including chronic pain, stress, poor posture and mobility. After experiencing the benefits for herself Nikhila was keen to share it with others and qualified as a Feldenkrais practitioner in 2005. She explains: “Feldenkrais works with human movement patterns and awareness, or mindfulness. One of it’s benefits is it helps us develop our kinesthetic sense, and one of the good things about that is that we can regain our natural feeling of being supported and grounded, no matter where we are or what we are doing. “Borrowing from the Biotensegrity model, think for a moment of humans as three dimensional, selfsupporting structures in continuous tension, where bones act as space makers, and soft tissues (muscle, ligament, tendon and connective tissue) connect them and act to create movement. Imagine yourself without bones. You would be not much more than a blob of viscous liquid! Bones are our most dense structure, giving us form. Our muscles and other soft tissues, anchored to the bones, contract and relax and make us move. The important thing to realize is that when our bones are optimally aligned, our skeleton does the bulk of the job of supporting us. We feel strong, solid and connected to the ground beneath our feet. And, our muscles etc., are free to move us.
Barbara Brennan Healing Practitioner Registered Homeopath
New practice opened at The Plymouth Functional Medicine Clinic “When we become anxious, stressed or injured our muscles, tendons and ligaments tighten, ready for action or to protect. They start doing the job our bones are supposed to do. When stress is prolonged they forget how to relax. Our muscles hold memory, and the brain creates habits that it then ‘archives’. Habitually contracted soft tissue eventually becomes painful and over-worked. The bones and joints are drawn out of alignment, an imbalance in the relationship with gravity results, there is an accompanying loss of sensitivity as effort increases - we work harder simply in order to live our daily lives. Feldenkrais utilizes our natural movement abilities, and our attention, through awareness, our organic learning, to help reorganise our structure back to it’s natural state, and this in turn improves our mobility and posture, and our sense of support and groundedness .” For more information visit: www. lifeworks4.me.uk or call 07989 394904.
Benefitting from outdoors therapies
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AY the word counsellor or psychotherapist and your mind probably conjures up images of a therapy room painted in calming colours with soothing pictures on the walls and a box of tissues on the table. And, while receiving treatment in such a setting undoubtedly produces positive results for some people, it’s not for everyone. Growing numbers of people are recognising the benefits of receiving counselling or psychotherapy out of doors, maybe combined with therapeutic experiential approaches. Sue Blagburn of Adventures with Horses is one of the people leading the development of therapeutic Ecopsychology and Equine Facilitated Learning (also called Equine Assisted Learning). Ecopsychology studies the relationship between human beings and the natural world based on ecological and psychological principles. Equine Facilatated Learning uses the relationship between horse and human to help us to understand ourselves better and unlock our
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potential. Sue explained: “The conventional way of thinking is that humans have something to teach horses. We turn this on its head and focus on what horses can teach us – about ourselves, others and the world at large.” Sue is a qualified in Equine Facilitated Experiential Learning and Growth and has studied Ecopsychology and eco facilitation at Schumacher College. She has coached and mentored professionals in marketing communications for over 30 years, and has a diploma in NLP. Sue can now offer equine assisted counselling at Adventures with Horses as her work placement in her final year of qualifying as an advanced humanistic counsellor through Dartmoor Centre of Counselling and Psychotherapy, her work is professionally supervised and abides by the BACP ethical framework for good practice in counselling and psychotherapy. For more information, call 01364 631444 or 07831865259 See also www. adventureswithhorses.co.uk
Marc Blausten
LCHom, MARH, BHS, FIEH, BCMA
• RELATIONSHIP CORDS
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Healing and Teaching for 30 years For a free initial chat call 0333 433 0454 www.healingandhomeopathy.com PLYMOUTH - TOTNES - EXETER - ONLINE
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Newton Abbot
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Lovely spacious rooms at Nautilus with a peaceful waiting room where you can gather your thoughts
WELLBEING Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) (Stimulates the immune system to function optimally)
The Bowen Technique Arcturus Clinic, Totnes Home Visits AMANDA MORRIS
CLT – MLDUK – CertECBS – BTPA
For an appointment please call 07931 505 312
amanda@amandamorris.co.uk www.amandamorris.co.uk
Therapist success
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OUNDERS of The Nautilus Rooms, Peter and Ruth, told Reconnect how satisfying it is to see how many different therapists have successfully built their businesses at the Totnes-based therapy centre since it opened its doors. Located in a beautiful listed building just off Fore Street, the centre has four therapy rooms including a room large enough for groups, workshops, trainings etc. Ruth Baker said: “We opened The Nautilus Rooms to provide a beautiful space particularly for counsellors and psychotherapists and are delighted other therapists have joined us. We are delighted we have attracted highly experienced and qualified professionals. It’s is a truly complementary practice. The rooms are conveniently located in the middle of town but also in a quiet and secluded location. If you are interested in using the rooms please be in contact.” At the beginning of October, The Nautilus Rooms welcomed its newest therapist who is relocating to Totnes from the other side of the world. Gwenn Channer has been practicing in Australia as a Master Clinical Hypnotist, Success & Transformation Life Coach, Master NLP and Quantum Touch practitioner. She also holds a Diploma of Modern Psychology from The Mind Academy. Gwenn describes herself as someone with: “A rich life experience as a mother of four, partner, healer, project manager, organic farmer/gardener, world traveller, chairperson of a Steiner school and EFL teacher.” This Autumn Sylvia Karathanos will be facilitating her popular Sunday evening course using The Work by Byron Katie. On Sunday October 15 Ruth Baker will running a sandplay workshop as part of the Bodykind Festival – the first festival dedicated to body acceptance. The workshop will be looking at our relationship with our bodies and the influence our culture has on that, using sandplay as the vehicle for exploration. Tickets are available on the Bodykind website (https://www.bodykindfestival.com) Ruth Baker has a number of Sandplay and therapeutic art courses running this Autumn and through the winter. These are aimed at both those with a a personal therapeutic interest or those wanting to expand their professional interest. If your are interested in sandplay or therapeutic art, perhaps you have had a taster session on a counselling course and are interested in working at more depth. Or maybe you are interested in bringing creative work into your practice whether it is in a counselling, psychotherapy, school,
youth work or other setting, then do get in touch. The courses include the popular Introduction to Integrative Sandplay Therapy weekend course, which is accredited by the Association of Integrative Sandplay Therapists. Further advanced training is planned. Sand play and Mindfulness, and a fortnightly evening group using sand and art. Ruth explained: “I have been working as a counsellor and psychotherapist for almost 30 years. More recently I have studied Sandplay Therapy and Therapeutic Art to an advanced level with the Association of Integrative Sandplay Therapists. I was tutored by John Daly, one of the country’s leading teachers in sandplay. This approach uses a post Jungian transpersonal theoretical model. Working in this way has brought further depth to my practice and I have certainly changed as a result of this training.” For more information contact Ruth direct at: ruthbaker1@gmail.com. The Nautilus Rooms will continue playing host to many established favourites, including Scott Grant from Inter Dimensional Healing who will be hosting fortnightly sound baths where participants are bathed in the beautiful healing sound of crystal. For more information visit: www. nautilusrooms.uk
Are you ready to play more? “ARE you ready to access and play with who you really are?” That’s the question asked by Christie Animas in her Introductions to Fool Expression Workshops and Play Days held monthly in mid Devon. Christie is offering the chance to free your inner player with embodied practices, gentle and transformative exercises, and a unique exploration of the relation between audience and players. Christie said: “After the weekend you will feel nourished by your
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connection with your Inner Player, you will have access to new parts/ masks in yourself, and you will feel ready to play more.” Her next introduction weekends take place on October 7-8, November 11-12, January 27-28 at Bowacre Farm Hittislieigh. Contact Christie Animas 07980371335 or christiede@ hotmail.com. Facebook page www.facebook.com/ ChristieAnimas/
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WELLBEING What do you think of your body?
C
ONSIDER this question - What do you think of your own body? Then think about what your first reaction to it was, and how comfortable you felt to be asking yourself the question. How you answer can help to understand more about your own body image. In the last couple of decades, we have been conditioned more and more to believe that there is a perfect body type. Chiselled abs. Toned bodies. Perfectly white teeth. Flawless complexions. No hint of body fat. Many of us watch programmes on TV like Celebrity Love Island and TOWIE, where this seems to be the predominant body type. What happened to ‘average’?” All of us have been brought up with a fetishisation in our culture of the ‘perfect body’. I think it is even more difficult for those born since the eighties, the internet generation, who are presented with such images without any filter. In our early adulthood in particular, we can be anxious as our bodies change, and as we face so much that is new and uncertain in our lives. We want instead to feel happy, and we want certainty. We may unconsciously buy in to the messages that our culture communicates: that having a perfect body will lead to feeling happier, and you will then feel more secure in yourself. That you are inferior and unworthy if you have any other body type than perfect. That we can only find love if we have a perfect body. That you are not enough as you are. Can you get a sense of how it feels to believe these ideas? What sensations come up in your body as you read them? I’m not saying that it is a bad thing to want to change your body, or to be healthier, or fitter. What I am saying is that it is worth us examining our attitudes towards our body alongside taking whatever action we believe is good for us, and seeking to develop more compassion for how we are right now.
The Feldenkrais Method® with Lifeworks Somatics
Counsellor ALEX MOSELEY believes that asking questions can help us understand more about our body image.
• Reduce pain • Relieve stress • Improve performance • Move with Ease
I suggest a simple exercise for Reconnect readers to explore their own body image. You may want to do this with a friend or someone you trust. Find a space where you won’t be disturbed and where you feel comfortable. You may want to find a recent full-length photo of yourself to have to hand. Get a large piece of paper and some pens – any colours you like. Draw an outline of your body, marking off the head, chest, arms, stomach, hips, genitals, bottom, legs and feet. Now spend a few minutes on each part. Write down on each part of the body: 1) What sensations (eg tingling, tightness, spaciousness, warmth) come up in you when you consider this part of you 2) What feelings come up 3) What someone really compassionate might say about that body part. Spend some time afterwards writing down if there were any surprises, things that you learnt about your body image, and how it felt to do the exercise. l Alex practises at The Practice Rooms in Exeter, providing soulful, compassionate counselling. For more information visit www. alexmoseleycounselling.co.uk or call 07834 066150.
Functional Integration© individual lessons for those with chronic pain and injury, muscle pain and tension, RSI, chronic stress, physical and emotional trauma, degenerative and neurological disorders. Awareness Through Movement© group lessons: Somatic movement explorations to help with posture & poor movement habits, to increase body awareness, help relaxation, & improve balance and coordination. Suitable for those wishing to maintain/improve mobility. Learn naturally & organically. The way of “less is more” to being more flexible, strong & agile. With Nikhila M Ludlow (registered Feldenkrais Guild UK 2005) 07989 394904 www.lifeworks4.me.uk | info@lifeworks4.me.uk
Thrivecraft is thriving in new home
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continues until June. HE inspirational life, business and spiritual coaching practice However, the programme is flexible, - created in Totnes and recently explains Maggie, allowing some relocated to Cornwall - is going to join or continue late, as all the from strength to strength, reports content is also available on video Maggie Kay, founder of Thrivecraft. and audio. In fact it is possible to “I’ve just published take the course entirely my first book, Diving as a distance learner, for Pearls: The Wise starting anytime, as Woman’s Guide to with the Meditation Finding Love, which Teacher training. tells the story of the Maggie offers free creation of Thrivecraft”, Discovery Sessions says Maggie. “Having (in person, phone or moved from London to skype) for anyone Devon, I found my soul considering taking a mate, Pat, in Totnes and training or coaching in 2003 our Thrivecraft programme with her. ‘baby’ was born.” Diving for Pearls (a Nowadays, as spiritual adventure well as writing and / true love story coaching 1-1, Maggie mixed with tips personally trains Maggie Kay and teachings on accredited Thrivecraft meditation, Buddhism, inner wisdom Coaches and Meditation Teachers. and relationships), is available (Pat no longer has an active role, at Arcturus bookshop, Totnes, but supports in the background.) on Amazon and from Maggie’s The next 9 month Thrivecraft Coach website. training programme begins 14/15 Further info at www. Oct with a workshop at Thrivecraft maggiekaywisdom.com or 07905 Home Hub - the couple’s stunning 628905. riverside retreat near Saltash - and
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WELLBEING BACK/NECK | MIGRANE | SHOULDERS | SPORTS INJURIES
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Helping to connect with yourself
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UPERVISORS play a pivotal role in creating the conditions for themselves and others to innovate and take wise actions, according to Ken Rabone, Director of Training at the Dartmoor Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy. He said: “Supervision is relational – it is all about the relationships that are created. From this deeply mindful space new insights and choices can naturally emerge for wise action. The Diploma in Supervision supports supervisors to connect with themselves so they can better connect with others and the world and discover what is needed from them in their roles. It aims to develop personal reflective skills for greater clarity, humanity and for creative supervisory synergy to flourish. The process begins with developing our own personal capacities for reflection. It is so important to stop the busyness and stand back to find space and time.” He pointed out: “Reflective supervision has the potential to unlock creativity, innovation and transformation. Supervisors or managers cannot demand colleagues be more reflective or creative, but working in relationship we can create the conditions to
liberate fresh ideas and innovation. “Supervision is important in a busy and frenetic world when you have a working life that bombards you with cycles of change on many fronts. Reflective space is needed for thinking and feeling. This is what enables the kinds of positive transformation that everyone who works in a caring profession is seeking to secure. Ultimately, Supervision is a way of facilitating a reflective process that is rigorous and has a clear theoretical base.” The Diploma in Supervision is recognised as Advanced Specialist Training by the National Counselling Society. The course provides specialised therapeutic and managerial skills in supervision across a range of professional disciplines. The course begins in January 2018. For more information email: office@ safespaceforcounselling.com or phone 07801 248421. See www. safespaceforcounselling.com
Coming out as an animist
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ATER Once you can has an allow the truth and important quality of such love message for humanity, to permeate through according to Azulyour traumatised Valerie Thome, being and desolate animist and founder of soul you will wake SOULand: Making the up from a lifetime of World of our Longing anaesthesia to your One Maturing Soul at immense grief and a Time... capacity for love.” Animism is the The full message world’s oldest is available at: Azul-Valerie Thome known belief www.souland.org/ system, predating even paganism. conversations-with-grief-and-water.html It is the belief that objects, places and creatures all possess a Azul admits to being “shattered” by distinct spiritual essence. Azul told the messages, filled with “spiralling Reconnect that water has been loneliness” and of fearing the speaking to her for the last two reaction of others. Despite this, years. She said: “It is time for me she feels compelled to speak to take a leap of faith and share out, saying: “There is something one of water’s messages with you. emerging in our dying world that Because nothing else matters more deserves to be courted and longed to me right now than giving voice to for...new words...new context and something other than humans. This tribes are forming... can you hear is an excerpt of the message… them? I know that I am not alone “All of us; soil, water, plants, air, listening to our new world with a animals and all ancestors are living imagination and soul.” calling you humans, to us... so Azul is inviting people who share we can save your species. We her beliefs and sensitivities to know and have known for a while stay in touch and share their that you do not have much time stories. She is also offering left if you do not wake up to your to act as an animist mentor. birthright belonging to earth and For more information email: come home soon, real, real soon. soulandinfo@gmail.com or +44 We keep dying, we keep giving (0)7765257517. See www. away our lives to shake you up from souland.org a deep and very long amnesia.
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The new Opening the Senses Lounge at the Sea Light.
Sea Light’s opening the senses to taste RESIDENT poet and Head Chef at the Sea Light Gallery Café, Simon Welsh shares with Reconnect how he came to get such an unusual gig, juggling poems with paninis at this newly-created cafe…..
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WHAT sort of venue is the Sea Light; cafe or a gallery?” I asked. Katie Sara, visionary thinker, entrepreneur and co-creator of the brand ‘Opening the Senses’ smiled at me and took another sip of tea, without breaking eye contact. “The Sea Light isn’t a venue,” she said after a pause, “so much as an environment for the senses. The smells of home cooking play under your nose and the menu we’ve designed is out of this world and will send your taste buds rocking!
She added: “And we don’t just want you to be the Sea Light’s Poet in Residence - being our storyteller is essential - but Kian and I have discussed it and we’d also like you to be our Chef.” Kian slid a menu across the table so I could see what they had in mind. “Essentially it’s delicious food made simple,” he said. “South Devon Crab; awardwinning cheeses; gluten-free cakes; we only choose the best, we go local wherever we can, and the whole menu can be delivered simply in a Mediterranean style.” My mouth began to water as I looked over the menu. “When do I start?” I asked. “Tomorrow.” Later, I had time to reflect on how I feel about cooking: mindfully mixing ingredients in specific amounts is like alchemy; food prepared this way has the power to nourish both the person who makes it and the person who eats it. Game on! Gluten free cakes and Kian’s Danish Tarte Tatins at the Sea Light Opening the The Sea Light Gallery Café is Senses Café Gallery. located in a renovated Venetian
palace in the heart of Dawlish. The gallery is open daily from 9am to 3pm, serving organic and locally-sourced coffee, tea, soft drinks, wine and cider as well as fresh, home-cooked food. The gallery hosts regular exhibitions of Katie’s painting and the building also houses the Sea School of Embodiment and Eye of Sound, which hosts live performances. Find out more on their website www.thesea.co
Holistics centre fulfills Charlotte’s dream C afe
C o pywriter
Saturday Otober 21 10am - 5pm Totnes
WRITING FOR SOCIAL MEDIA: THE ESSENTIALS
C
HARLOTTE Mindham has fulfilled her lifelong dream of running a holistics centre. The Newton Abbot sports injury and fitness therapist has kitted out premises in Wharf Road, Newton Abbot as The Sports Clinic and Wellness Rooms. Charlotte has also assembled a team of therapists to work one day a week and share the facilities serving the Torbay and Exeter area. They include a craniosacrial therapist, aromatherapist and reflexologist, and
a workshop from The Cafe Copywriter hypnotherapist and reiki practitioner who specialises in past-life regression therapy. Charlotte is in the process of incorporating the adjoining premises and is also negotiating more private car parking spaces. She qualified in sports therapy more than a decade ago, worked alongside the head physio at Torquay United, and for most of that time has been self-employed. Charlotte said: “I’ve been very happy working for myself. But it has always been my
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dream to bring in likeminded people to create a well-being centre.” Charlotte is a former hockey player and qualified coach, and it was an injury on the playing field that led her to study sports injury and fitness therapy. “My experience led me to become a strong believer in pain relief without prescription.” For more information about The Sports Clinic and Wellness Rooms see https://scwr.co.uk or call Charlotte on 07891 704379
An introduction to the essentials of writing for social media with experienced commercial writer, Kate Philbin & social media enabler and entrepreneur Katie Whitehouse.
You will learn: • What makes a great social media campaign • How to write clear, concise, compelling copy • How to write a brilliant blog • How to write for Facebook, Twitter & Linked In Cost: £75 (£65 if booked before September 30th) Book online: cafecopywriter.bigcartel.com or Call: Kate 07970 107123 or Katie 07832 200980 Email: kate@katephilbin.com katie@fromthewhitehouse.com facebook.com/cafecopywriter
twitter.com/cafecopywriter
#cafecopywriter
Editorial: Editorial: 01392 01392346342 346342 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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AROMATHERAPY
classifiedads - HAVE A BROWSE THROUGH THE RECONNECT SMALL ADS -
paula-bs@hotmail.co.uk Also Skype FULLY qualified, experienced Aromatherapist now practising at Poppadums, Dawlish and Star Cuts, Starcross. Back & shoulder massage £20 with this issue of Reconnect. Call Annie on 07890877986
COACHING
GERARD Couper Mindfulness based coaching - supporting presence in life and work. Support with change and challenge in your life, career or relationship. 07866 361111 gerardcouper. com
COUNSELLING
CREATIVE counsellor. Heartful, Supportive Counselling. Creative Exercises including Art, Sandplay etc. Adults and Young People. Ruth Jenni Adv Dip Couns 07974097787 www. oakflower.co.uk Dartington, Newton Abbot and on Skype
EXISTENTIAL counsellor. My aim is to help you deepen your insight and expand your vision to find a more beneficial and meaningful way of living. Get in touch when you are ready to take the next step.... Tel: 07956 07956 028631 Email :
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information contact Paula on 07956 028631 or paula-bs@ hotmail.co.uk
GRIEF SUPPORT
FOR READERS... an at-a-glance guide to services and products - plus diary dates. FOR ADVERTISERS... an affordable way to get your message across. Boxes are £55 and £98 and the lineage ads cost just 90p a word, with a minimum of 20 words. THE DEADLINE... for the December/January issue is November 1. Call Scott on 01392 346342 or email adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk.
TREE CARE HOLISTIC Counsellor specialising in trauma/ abuse, and for those feelings/emotions difficult to put into words working with art, sand and outside amongst nature. Annie, www. natureswaycounselling. co.uk, 07760 439760. WHOLISTIC (Gestalt) Counsellor focussing on body awareness and what arises in the moment. Low cost service Exeter/ Crediton. Matthew Hart MNCS Accred. www.mathart.co.uk 07376426039
EQUINE FACILITATED COACHING & COUNSELLING
GRIEVING and want relief? Supportive sessions BY DONATION @ Bowden House, Totnes with counsellor/ author, Carmella B’Hahn. carmella@ heartofrelating.com 01803 867005 www. heartofrelating.com
KE EMERGENCE
GONG BATH & SOUND MEDITATION GROUPS & individuals Groups already take place in Chudleigh and Newton Abbot/ Bovey Tracey. For more
THERAPY
PSYCHOTHERAPY
TOMMY Hutchinson BSc (Hons) Forestry, ND Arboriculture, NPTC Qualified. Sensitive, professional tree care. Free consultation. Call: 07837486388 Email: universaltreecare@ outlook.com and https:// universaltreecare. wordpress.com
PURPLE RAIN SOMATIC Therapy, Creativity Coaching and Personal Story Work: freedom from trauma, neuroscience and mindfulness based. Agata Krajewska 07795002816 www. yournaturalpresence.com
MENSTRUAL EMPOWERMENT SUE Blagburn, Gestalt based humanistic counselling or coaching combined with equine facilitated experiential learning, one-to-one sessions for professionals needing support with work related issues or goals, work/business related anxiety, life work balance. Sessions last for 1 1/2 hours, 50% inside talking and 50% working with the horses. Beautiful surrounding on South Dartmoor. £60 a session. Contact Sue Blagburn on 01364 631444 or 07831 865259 adventureswithhorses@ btconnect.com www. adventureswithhorses.co.uk
Plymouth. Find out more at movementmedicine association.org. ailsa.clare.lucas@gmail. com, 01803 849039, 07999 486059.
book 07522344291, nicolasuzanne@hotmail. co.uk based Totnes Natural Health Centre
DAVID OXLEY MA: Fully qualified Accredited BACP counsellor and psychotherapist. Psychosynthesis and Core Process. Working with Relationship, Depth, Integrity and Soul. Central Exeter, Totnes and Plymouth. www. davidoxleycounselling. co.uk, 07876051093.
SHAMANIC Thai Massage is a body therapy and intuitive healing that bypasses the minds processes, and works on deeper levels leaving you feeling refreshed and relaxed afterwards. £5 off your first session. 07754 779 282 www. shamanicthaimassage.co.uk.
WORKSHOPS & MEETINGS FRACK FREE TOTNES
Meetings are held at the Seven Stars The Plains Totnes at 7pm on last Sunday of the month.
fooling workshops MOONSISTERS year-long closed group for Womb Yoga, Earth and Moon connection, Shakti rising and Menstrual Empowerment. Next course starts Jan 2018 in Totnes. Details www. moonsisters.co.uk or Nikki 07541098865
MOVEMENT MEDICINE OPEN classes with Ailsa Lucas. A held space to experience the life in you and let it dance; to be as you are and discover new ways of being. Monthly Saturday mornings in Dartington and
JAY Ramsay MA: Oxon, UKCP. 20+ years experience with individuals and couples, Psychosynthesis-trained, now working in Totnes: www.jayramsay.co.uk 07752-719331
REFLEXOLOGY CLEANSE, relax, balance mind/body connection. £30 fullhour, discounts for initial treatment or course of 3,
Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk
A Spiritual Imperative Goddess Boy with 2 rescued cats seeks goddess girl 30+to transition together into AQUARIAN Violet Light Of Love. WHY HESITATE? To get in contact write to Reconnect Box 23, 18 Millin Way, Dawlish Warren, Devon EX70EP
October 7-8 and of November 11-12 at Bowacre Farm Hittislieigh. Contact Christie Animas 07980371335 or christiede@hotmail.com
dance connection
October 14 and November at Studio 6, Dartington, Live Connection - dance with live music.
CANCER LIFELINE SOUTHWEST are currently looking for three people to join our facilitation team. We run 4 day therapeutic breaks for people who have been affected by cancer. Applicants must be qualified counsellors or Psychotherapist. Have experience of facilitating groups and have an understanding of working with cancer. For more information contact juliejeffs1@ gmail.com or www. cancer-lifeline.org
Small ads with BIG impact! You can advertise in this classified section for as little as
£18 (therapists also get a free picture, while space allows - first come, first served). Call Scott now on 01392 346342 or email adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk.
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T HE N AUTILUS R OOMS
COURSES AND WORKSHOPS OCTOBER 4TH & 18TH 7.30pm – 9pm Sound Healing Journey Through the Chakras Scott Grant Interdimensional Healing Transformational journey with 10 crystal singing bowl. Return to a state of happiness, peace and balance. Tel: 07723313005 www.interdimensionalhealing.co.uk Cost £10
OCTOBER 13th 14TH &15th Body Kind Festival Sandplay, The Work of Byron Katie and More at The Nautilus Rooms www.bodykindfestival.com
OCTOBER 28TH Introduction to Therapeutic Art facilitated by Ruth Baker Association of Integrative Sandplay Therapists accredited course. Ruth Baker Email: ruthbaker1@gmail.com
NOVEMBER 1st & 15th 7.30pm – 9pm Sound Healing Journey Through the Chakras Scott Grant Interdimensional Healing
Fabulously located in the centre of totnes, yet tucked away in a quiet alley, with easy access to short and long-term parking. check out our amazing list of highly qualified therapists and interesting events. Leaflets are available at the end of the alley way opposite The Mansion and next to Lloyds bank. If you are looking for a wonderful venues for a group, meeting or CPD event, do come and check out our lovely group room.
Transformational journey with 10 crystal singing bowl. Return to a state of happiness, peace and balance. Tel: 07723313005 www.interdimensionalhealing.co.uk Cost £10
NOVEMBER 4TH AND 5TH Introduction to Sandplay Therapy facilitated by Ruth Baker Association of Integrative Sandplay Therapists accredited course.
r R u th Ba ke
Ruth Baker
36 334454
Call now 077
m er1@gmail.co
ruthbak uk otherapy.co. ruthbakerpsych
Email: ruthbaker1@gmail.com
NOVEMBER 25TH and 26th Introduction to Sandplay Therapy facilitated by Ruth Baker Association of Integrative Sandplay Therapists accredited course. Ruth Baker Email: ruthbaker1@gmail.com ant ch & Consult & Mentor • Coa • Supervisor t • Counsellor Psychotherapis
DECEMBER 6TH & 20th 7.30pm – 9pm Sound Healing Journey Through the Chakras
Creative Therapy Courses Specialising in Sandplay and Therapeutic Art
Accredited By Aist
er Contact Ruth Bak .com ruthbaker1@gmail
Scott Grant Interdimensional Healing Transformational journey with 10 crystal singing bowl. Return to a state of happiness, peace and balance. Tel: 07723313005 www.interdimensionalhealing.co.uk Cost £10
STARTING JANUARY 2018 Certificate in Integrative Sandplay Therapy facilitated by John Daly – Association of Integrative Sandplay Therapists accredited course. Ruth Baker Email: ruthbaker1@gmail.com Anna Karthauser - massage therapist Offers individual and group tuition on request. To find out more contact Anna.
ight Mark Wr psychotherapy plative Contem Totnes nd a r te xe E py.net arkthera waterm 9 8 9 6 2 2 07799
Call: 07912612462, email: anna@karthauser.org or visit www. annakarthausermassage.co.uk
Enquire for date Mindfulness for Therapists with Sarah Ward this course is also an introduction to a level-4 course later in the Summer Sarah Ward
The Nautilus Rooms • 35a Fore Street • Totnes • TQ9 5HN www.nautilusrooms.uk • info@nautilusrooms.uk Call Ruth on 07736 334454 or Peter on 07826 414404
call 07860 102047 email sarahj.ward@btinternet.com