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FEBRUARY/MARCH 2012 ISSUE 17
the green living magazine for Exeter, Plymouth and South Devon
Dangerous Dads
Positive parenting is child’s play
FREE please take one and pass it on
The generation game
Making energy in the community
Back to their roots
A floral tribute to local produce
Festivals in 2012
Our guide to the best in the West
The Wellbeing section Natural health and development
local people local events local food local health local environment HoLiSTiC MEdiCiNE EXPERiENCEd PRACTiTioNERS WidE RANgE of TREATMENTS PRofESSioNAL TRAiNiNg
EXETER NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE Holistic healthcare in the heart of the city
Health is the fullest expression of you as an individual with the least friction with your environment. it implies adaptation, fluidity, freedom and ease and is truly a blessing. Here at the centre, we work with you to find the most suitable ways for you to restore and sustain your health. We work from a holistic perspective and with an integrated approach. Situated just off Queen Street right in the heart of the city we offer a wide range of complementary therapies all provided by respected and experienced practitioners. our consulting rooms are light and airy and many of our visitors have been delighted by the tranquil ambience of the centre.
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THE PRACTITIONERS: Harriet HollingwortH acupuncture & Chinese Healthcare, Reflexology, Sports Massage, Reiki Master Mo MoRRiSh homoeopathic Medicine
KatHerine UKleJa Craniosacral Therapy ANNA PARiS Traditional Acupuncture, Toyohari, 5 Element & Manaka styles noraH CatHerine MCCuLLAgh Pure Face Works
JUlie BlaDon Yoga, Lomi Lomi Massage, Pregnancy massage
geoff green Energy healing & Counselling
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Ayurvedic Massage, Consultations, Reflexology
PatriCia anD Karin
Pregnancy Yoga and Active Birth
LiSA TATE Massage, pregnancy Massage, Aromatherapy & Non Surgical Face lift
SuSAN QuAYLE Maternity Reflexologist, fertility, ante natal, post natal & baby Aromatherapy Massage ThE DEvoN SChooL oF reflexology Level 3 Diplomas Spring/Autumn Courses 2012 JUlia Collett Psychotherapy & Counselling LouiSA ShoRNEY Clinical hypnotherapy
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Find out more about us on facebook and follow us on twitter @ExeterNaturalHC 2
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local people local events local food local health local environment COMMERCIAL EDITOR adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk Pete Hardy - 01392 346342 2 Withall’s Gardens, Lympstone, EX8 5JH EDITOR Martin Foster - 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk 45 Punchards Down, Follaton, Totnes TQ9 5FD ADVERTISEMENT SALES Heather Nicholson, right PUBLISHED BY Reconnect Publishing, 2 Withall’s Gardens, Lympstone, EX8 5JH PRINTED BY Kingfisher Print, Wills Rd, Totnes www.kingfisherprint.co.uk ADVERTISING The deadline for our April/May issue is March 9. Call Pete or Martin and ask about our Easy Pay scheme that spreads the cost over 12 months an 1/8-page ad costs just £41.85 a month! If you’re new to advertising (or you don’t like the ads you’ve had elsewhere), we can help you write an ad and design it for you. WEBSITE Visit www.reconnectonline.co.uk to find our more about advertising rates and magazine stockists. And visit our Facebook page at www.facebook. com/reconnectmagazine ECO ETHOS Reconnect is written, designed, printed and distributed locally, using materials from sustainable sources. It is printed using vegetablebased inks and biodegradable fount solution. The paper is 75 per cent post-consumer waste and 25 per cent virgin fibre (from a sustainable source), chlorine-free and FSC-accredited (www. fsc-uk.org). All by-products of the production and printing processes are recycled. Please recycle this magazine by passing it on to a friend...
COPYRIGHT © Reconnect Publishing Ltd 2009. All rights reserved. No part of Reconnect can be reproduced in any form without permission of the publisher. But do ask – if you’re genuinely spreading the word, we’ll try to help. The publishers, editor and authors accept no responsibility in respect of any products, goods or services advertised or referred to in this issue, or any errors, omissions, mis-statements or mistakes in any advertisements or references
to the February/March issue. THERE’S a saying that those who can, do – and those who can’t, teach. Now I don’t want to perpetuate any wholly unfair anti-teacher feeling. But conversely I’m always up for a cheap joke too (and therefore can’t resist also repeating ‘What are the two main reasons for becoming a teacher? July and August’). But in my defence I would also declare selfdeprecation because I have a teaching qualification. And, of course, like many such quips, it all depends on intent: said as a quick throw-away line (or used in a magazine editorial when you’re stuck for an intro, say), it’s fine; but express it with passion and the job of Daily Mail leader writer could be yours. Also, in the interests of balance I’d like to suggest an addition: And those who can’t teach, become journalists and write about it… In fact, there is at least an element of truth in that because a good editor is often not an expert in a specialist field of knowledge. The exceptions are the editors of very specialist mags, of course, some of whom become journalists in the first place simply so they could spend all day every day playing around in their particular area of choice. The danger there, though, is that they become so immersed in the subject that they end up producing magazines that can only really be enjoyed by geeks like them. Which is, I guess, the definition of the specialist magazine. I, on the other hand, as editor of what the industry would call a ‘green lifestyle’ magazine, need to know enough about a wide range of subjects within the sustainable living sphere. A jack of all trades, if you like, but also, I hope, the master of one - magazine editing. If we (and I include my equally experienced colleague Pete Hardy) need specialist information on, say, solar energy, we call on an expert. In fact, we can call on a whole range of experts and we use our journalistic skills to put what could otherwise be a heavily jargonised technical account into language everyone will understand. One final benefit of our ‘enthusiast rather than expert’ approach is that we can sometimes cover subjects as humble protagonists, taking readers along on a journey of discovery. Take my Living on Less page, for example. I don’t claim to be an expert and I haven’t written a book on the subject, but I do live by those principles – not perfectly, and not always getting it all right, but enthusiastically and I’m always open to input from others. Not a bad way to travel, it seems to me. And soon I will be applying those same principles to an exciting new project. Jenny and I have recently got involved in a landshare project (with Matthew,
Local food pages 6 - 9
Festival guide pages 20-21
Dangerous Dads page 25
Wellbeing pages 26 - 39
Benita and Sky – you’ll be hearing more about them too) just outside Totnes. Currently, the 11+ acres is home to a young orchard, a vegetable garden and planning permission for two poly tunnels. Plus, hopefully, an extra 600 trees and hedging plants from the Woodland Trust – hopefully because as we go to press they are about to be delivered and planted by us and a team of enthusiastic friends - but the weather’s looking a little worrying… Eventually those poly tunnels will be up and productive, and we’ll have chickens, ducks, bees and a few surprises (mainly to us, I suspect). Following permaculture principles and keeping it all organic, we aim to create something that is selfsupporting, producing food for the five of us involved in the project and, hopefully, for the stock, plus a surplus for sale to the community. And the really exciting thing is that we’ll be featuring our progress (and any problems and lack of progress) right here in Reconnect. More details in the next issue – including, I hope, an account of a successful tree planting weekend!
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Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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Wildaid helps school create a wildlife pond
Chagford Primary School pupils at the site of their new nature pond
DEVON-based national wildlife education charity WildAid are helping Chagford Primary School increase biodiversity and encourage native flora and fauna in ‘nature’s classroom’. Chagford school already uses its grounds in a sustainable way and produces lots of their own food. Now WildAid are creating a space that will benefit wildlife and which the children can use safely unsupervised and therefore learn to connect with nature more creatively. Said Dawn Wakefield of
Greens put on big night IF you’re looking for a “fantastic evening of vocals, beats, moves and locals”, look no further that The Exe Factor at The Bath House in Exmouth, 7.30pm on Saturday, March 17. The line-up includes: free-range organic performance poet Jackie Juno; world fusion music from Kuluy; kora (a form of West African harp) player Moussa Kouyate; Exeter Latin American Dance; and African percussion from local band The Current dJAMbes. Tickets for the East Devon Green Partyorganised event cost £6 from p.c.bennett18@ btopenworld.com and Roberts hardware store in Ottery St Mary, or £7 on the door. Call 01395 576847 for more details.
DWT support PLYMOUTH company Pipex px® has pledged £6,000 to support two Devon Wildlife Trust projects. Funding will go to Warleigh Point nature reserve, near Tamerton Foliot, and DWT’s landscape scale project, Working Wetlands, via the alternative carbon offset scheme run by Devon Wildlife Trust. Find out more at www. devonwildlifetrust.org.
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Take to the woods for a wild hen party with a difference WE’VE touched on some aspects of green weddings in Reconnect, but what about that hallowed institution, the hen night – or hen weekend, as they have become? If you’re trying to reduce your carbon footprint, and avoid being surrounded by numerous other hen parties, Babes in the Woods could have the answer. They offer luxurious, off-grid weekends in a cosy woodland site, with locally produced food and drink, relaxing therapies – and the chance to learn bushcraft skills. Babes in the Woods’ Hetti Dysch said: “Not only is this about lowering your carbon footprint, it’s also about having fun and treating yourself to some true local luxuries, some seasonally and locally sourced food, and the sound of birds while receiving a massage or Shiatsu. “The site is off-grid, so the water is all carried in (spring water) and there is no electricity. There is no hum of traffic, only the hooting of owls at night and the squawking of Jays at dawn. Bats, badgers, foxes, and buzzards all share the woodland home of Babes in the Woods.” Accommodation is in luxury bell tents, the “shabby chic “ bathroom is heated by a wood burner and features a walnut dresser and soft carpet. Activities can include fire making (“Not just for the alpha male!”), creating
OFF-GRID bell tents provide accommodation for Babes in the Woods hen parties massage oil or ointment using hedgerow plants, carving a wooden spoon and cooking on the open fire – “wild garlic pesto in the Spring, elderflower fritters in the Summer, blackberry jam in the Autumn…” It doesn’t get much better than that!” says Hetti. Find out more at www. babesinthewoods.co.uk or call 07850 401759.
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Wildaid: “Local outdoor education groups such as Wild Woods ‘n’ Willow run sessions at the school and the new area we have designed will help to support these activities. “WildAid will fund a new pond and provide handson help and experience to build something that will improve the wildlife area for the environment, the school and the wider community.” They say they’d love to hear from anyone who can offer funding or any other help – visit their website, www.wildaid.org, or call 0845 601 2599.
Matt’s show visits villages SUBJECTS as diverse as kippers, curtains, pain relief and public nudity are covered by the witty poems and sharp wordplay when Matt Harvey takes his Edinburgh hit to Devon village halls. Wondermentalist also features Matt’s alter ego Empath Man, a contemporary superhero who fights crime with his advanced listening skills and ability to stay open and vulnerable in a tight situation. Performances take place at The Lifton Hall Hotel, LIfton, on February 9 (call 01566 784603 to book tickets); at Ermington Village Hall on February 24 (01548 831132); at Meavy Parish Hall on March 9 (01822 855523) and at St Bartholemow’s Church, Coffinswell, on February 25 (01803 875527.
How would you honour a life? WHILE death might not be quite the taboo it once was, it is still a sensitive subject. And it was the difficulty some people have addressing that subject that prompted celebrant Jonathan Taylor to run his funeral exploration workshops. “I see them as a chance to find out and understand the way you would best honour life at its end,” said Jonathan. “We create an imaginary place where people feel safe to explore the possibilities – there are actually very few rules about how funerals must be run.” His next workshop is at Totnes Natural Health Centre on Saturday, March 10, 10am-1pm. To find out more, call Jonathan on 01803 865380.
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Call in on us at Facebook CAN’T wait for the next issue of Reconnect to catch up on sustainable living news across the region? Well, now you don’t have to. You can now drop in on us anytime you like via Facebook – just visit www.facebook.com/ ReconnectMagazine. You don’t even have to have your own Facebook page to see ours. Once there, you’ll find updates on events that missed the deadline for the current issue (and reminders about some that are in our current issue); extra pictures we didn’t have room for in the magazine; previews of stories and pictures coming up in future issues; and anything else we think you’ll find interesting,
including links to goodies we’ve come across online. And, of course, you can get involved yourself by leaving a comment. So visit www.facebook.com/ ReconnectMagazine - and do please ‘like’ us while you’re there. Assuming you do, of course – we’ve always thought you were lovely!
green fuse funeral directors green fuse supports you to create a moving and memorable funeral reflecting the life & values of the person who has died. All styles of funeral – contemporary, green, jazz, traditional, whatever you choose. Highly qualified staff (FDFS Bath University). Free funeral planning service (with or without prepayment) “Jane Morrell and Simon Smith work tirelessly to improve the standard of funerals.” Good Funeral Guide Visit our funeral centre at 7 High Street, Totnes or visit our highly informative website www.greenfuse.co.uk to find out all about funerals and bereavement. Call us on 01803 840779 (24 hour service).
funerals with heart and soul My pain started to decrease immediately. Friends were surprised mostly, then interested and amazed at the results when told of the very gentle treatment. Please try it, this is the route to take, I did and I’m glad.
YOGA at Quest, above, and circus skills for the kids, below
Extra family fun at Quest ‘12 SPRING is in the air (or at least anticipation of it is) and a Reconnect reader’s mind turns to… festivals! Go on, you know you promised yourself you’d get to more festivals this year (or at least one!) and now’s the time to make your plans and book those tickets. One of the biggies for a lot of you is Quest at Newton Abbot racecourse, a family-friendly, laid-back long weekend of natural health and personal development, music and dance, food and fun… There’s always a relaxed atmosphere at Quest and parents feel safe to let their children run around the site and there’s always loads for kids to do. This year’s children’s activities include circus skills, hula hooping, drum circle, henna painting, storytelling and kids’ yoga. There’s plenty of camping space too and excellent facilities – always a winner with families. There will be even more music than usual this year, with more local performers putting on free shows during the
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day. Big-name artists will include Carolyn Hillyer and Nigel Shaw, Kora Colours featuring Ravi, Dragonsfly, Chris Ellis and Celeste Lovick, Pearl, Blue Jewel, Tribal Groove, Cherry Rain and Liv Torc. Inspirational speakers are a big part of the Quest mix and this year’s line-up includes Jacqui Newcombe, Ursula James, Sandy Newbigging, Todd Acamensis and Cate Mackenzie. And David Wells, Tim Freke and Barbara Micklejohn-Free are all back after a few years break. We’ll have more news in our next issue and you can keep up with the latest developments at www.questuk.co.uk. l SEE our preview of 2012 Westcountry festivals on page 20.
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Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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Taste the Experience! Fine English wines & cheeses, produced from our Estate on the banks of the River Dart. Tours are available which include a wine tasting. Alfresco dining in summer.
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6
WE’VE got a special Pete Hardy focus on community shops, below, plus, over the page, Martin Foster stretches ‘Local Food’ to include flowers, grown just a mile or so from where they are sold...
Community shops at the heart of villages VILLAGES all over the UK are constantly under threat of losing their local shops and post offices. But in a Dad’s Army-style fight back, communities everywhere are showing that by pulling together they can turn the tide of closures. Throughout England, Scotland and Wales there are now nearly 300 communityowned shops, of which over 20 are in Devon, and openings are running at the rate of 20 shops a year. These are all communities that have taken the bull by the horns and set up their own stores, many with post offices attached, run mainly by volunteers and often using temporary accommodation. But their actions have not only kept a local shop open for business, there have been other spin-offs. Because local folk decide what they want to buy and sell, there has been a greater emphasis on local suppliers and in turn healthier diets for their customers. In the winter of 2008 the villagers of Ide on the edge of Exeter found themselves with the threatened closure of their local shop. Start-up community shops can take between six and 18 months to establish but in Ide the deadline was just three months. As the store closed on March 31, 2009, so the community-owned store opened its doors, manned by volunteers, the following day. It was then the 200th such store of its type in the country. The shop’s chairman Trevor Gardner said that over £20,000 was raised for set up costs from grants, loans and local fundraising. Over 160 paid-up members from the local community supported the new venture by becoming shareholders in the Industrial and Provident Society set up.
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THE Ide shop interior (and below right) and the exterior of the portable building, top right
Facts and figures AT the beginning of 2011 there were 251 community shops trading. At the end of the year this figures had risen to 271. The South East saw the greatest level of growth with six new shops followed by the South West with five. Of the 282 community shops that have opened in the UK over the years, only 11 have closed – a 97% success rate. The average small business fiveyear success rate is around 46%. A portable building was bought and planning permission sought and granted and the shop was fitted out in record time. Over 40 volunteers were initially recruited and trained, and many of them are still with the project two years on. The Post Office reopened in October 2009 and three staff were employed to run it on a job share basis. Said Trevor: “Ide has a busy, well used, well stocked friendly community shop and Post Office that
local people local events local food local health local environment
Real Food at a Fair Price... ...from Ashburton’s Local Produce Market, at Tuckers Country Store, Ashburton
is open more than 40 hours a week, seven days a week. Said Trevor: “The business model of the old traditional village store and post office was no longer working in a relatively small community, but the new business model, based on the majority of staff giving their time voluntarily is a real success and gives the new shop a sustainable future.” The volunteer base has grown from 40 in April 2009 to 52 today. Communities thinking of opening their own village store can obtain help and advice from the Plunkett Foundation. James Alcock, the foundation’s Community Retail Manager, said that awareness of the community ownership model continued to grow. In 2011 their team handled 130 new enquiries from communities seeking advice and support in setting up a community shop. “We are currently working with another 149 communities, helping them to explore setting up a community shop,” said James.
Community shops across Devon THERE are now almost 300 community stores in the UK, more than 20 of them in Devon. The following shop-by-shop rundown includes the date they opened in brackets. Ashwater (Nov 2010) Aveton Gifford (Jan 2009) Bere Ferrers (Jun 2000) Berrynarbor (Jun 2004) Bishop’s Nympton (Jun 2009) Broadhempston (Apr 2009) Dalwood (Jun 2001) E Budleigh (Jan 2008) Exbourne/Jacobstowe (Jun 2002) Ide (Apr 2009) Newton Ferrers (Jan 2005) Offwell (Jun 2004) Payhembury (Jul 2011) Plymtree (Jun 2009) Rackenford (Jun 2003) Sandford (Dec 2006) Sheepwash (Jun 2001) Spreyton (Jan 2010) St Giles on the Heath (Jun 2009) Stokeinteignhead (Aug 2009) Talaton (Jun 1994) Thorverton (Sep 2007) Welcombe (Jun 2006)
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There’s a host of award winning locally produced meat, organic vegetables, cakes, bread, cheese, flowers, preserves, ice cream, fresh fish, Fairtrade goods, handmade baskets, jewellery, textiles, greetings cards and much more at Tuckers Local Produce Market. Teas and coffees with free biscuits are available every day; freshly cooked BARBEQUE LUNCHES on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
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The Plains Shopping Centre Totnes TQ9 5DR shop@sackswholefoods.co.uk 7
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EXMOUTH Farmers’ Market chairman Nick May, proprietor of the
10% DISCOUNT DAY Bread Of Devon stall ON FRIDAY, MARCH 23rd!! Find us in the Come and celebrate with us the Market Square in EXMOUTH Farmers’ Market has arrival of Spring. Stock up on your proved it can weather storms, either Easter eggs and other goodies. 10% Totnes, TQ9 5SG the proverbial variety or the real thing. off everything all day. See you then! 01803 866738 In the run-up to Christmas the market
Produce market weathers the storm
For more information check out www.greenlife.co.uk
Valentine’s at Venus Enjoy a romantic 4-course meal at Blackpool Sands Saturday 11th and Tuesday 14th February Tables available from 5:30pm
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Glass of Bollinger on arrival Canapés
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Scallops with crispy bacon and pea purée Deep-fried Camembert with homemade cranberry sauce Leek, parsnip and fresh ginger soup (Vegan)
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Venus Handmade Desserts:
Double chocolate caramel mousse with honeycomb pieces Sticky toffee pudding with vanilla ice cream Tarte tatin with Langage Farm clotted cream
Venus Organic Tea or Coffee Vegan options also available if requested in advance
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went weekly and reported good trading. It has now gone back to fortnightly but the hope is that weekly markets will return in the Summer as business continues to grow. The weather was very windy on each market day during December which meant stallholders had to learn how to keep their feet firmly on the ground.
Nick May, the market chairman and Bread of Devon stallholder, said: “The wind made the stalls lift off the ground, but we managed to hold them down. The market was well attended and we had the usual wide variety of traders, including a couple of extras who were selling specifically Christmas things.” New stalls are expected as the market continues to expand during 2012. “The market is very buoyant,” said Nick. “It’s been very well supported by the lovely people of Exmouth.”
Support for vegan newcomers THE reasons for switching to an animal-free diet are clear, but for many the move is a hard one to contemplate. Now a local group of campaigners have launched a pledge to provide help and guidance to those considering becoming a vegan. The Exeter Vegan Pledge 2012 is being organised by the Exeter Friends for Animals (EFFA) in March as part if its campaign to promote a more compassionate, cruelty-free lifestyle. EXETER Friends For Animals volunteers Pledgers agree to follow a hand out samples on World Vegan Day vegan diet for one month last year and attend a workshop at one or two social events, including a the beginning and end of the month potluck supper, where pledgers can consisting of talks, discussions, get together and compare notes. nutritional advice from a registered The workshops will take place on dietician, cookery demonstrations March 3 and 31 at the Palace Gate and a vegan lunch. Centre, Exeter. They will each be assigned a vegan Anyone interested in taking part ‘buddy’, who they can call with should contact Wendy Smith at queries or problems. 01395 268823 or email During the month, there will also be mail@effa-uk.org for more details.
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‘There’s a lot of power in a bunch of flowers...’ IT’S a sad irony that the only obvious monument to the market gardens that were once such a part of life in Totnes is a car park named after the nursery that once thrived there. In fact there were three growers within the town itself – Heath’s, Gills, and Phillips/Victoria Nursery. Heath’s, which eventually gave its name to that car park, was started in 1920 by George Heath and was run by his son, also called George, until it closed in 1981. But while those businesses have long since gone, and the land built on or paved over, there is still one business keeping alive the tradition of growing and selling local flowers in the town. Frankie Finn and Dawn Dakin are well known for their local produce stall in Totnes market on Fridays, where they sell organic and unsprayed fruit and veg, honey… and traditional seasonal flowers. But they don’t only sell flowers. They also run The Walled Garden, their own small business that grows them. “It’s really important for us to be on the market,” explains Frankie, “part of the tradition that has brought natural beauty into Totnes homes since at least Elizabethan times. There’s a lot of power in a bunch of flowers. They enhance our lives and connect us to what is important – especially when they are grown in local earth.” Dawn describes being in the walled garden as “like working in paradise – despite the slugs and the mice…” In fact, the garden itself is another
slice of Totnes history because it’s on land that once belonged to the Duke of Somerset. In more recent times it was farmed by Charles and Janet Riggs, who also ran the market stall. Frankie and Dawn had worked for them for years and, after Charles died, they took over the stall and the garden themselves. And there’s now another link between the stall and the garden: Bob Bowles, a local beekeeper, keeps bees in the flower garden and he sells honey on the stall – alongside the flowers that gave the bees their nectar…
THE walled garden that gives the business its name - and, above, some of the beautiful local blooms they sell on their stall
To find out more about The Walled Garden’s floral services, see them on the stall on Fridays or call 01803 862304/865147.
Special floral displays by arrangement
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AS Carol completes her first year’s cycle of Seasonal Eating, she suggests we lighten our diet in preparation for the Spring - after we’ve had a slice or two of chocolate beetroot cake, of course... WE have now completed a whole year’s cycle in this column. Perhaps it is now clear that choosing seasonal eating is as much about being aware of our own internal seasons as well as the seasons of nature. The Chinese saw no difference between what happened ‘out there’ in nature and what happened ‘in here’ within ourselves; they had the wisdom to see that we were all connected to everything and everyone. Eating with the seasons therefore means staying healthy with the seasons! By now we have been through the depths of winter and it feels like a time of waiting… waiting for Spring. In terms of the five elements, we are moving from the water element to wood, from the deep dark depths up towards the surface. The light is increasing steadily now and the snowdrops are out but we have not quite reached Springtime. We are in that Winter/Spring interlude when the energy of Spring dances in and out, tempting and teasing us. This period of the year takes us from the beginning of February and Imbolc, the festival of light, through to the Spring Equinox, the festival of balance and awakening at the end of March. Imbolc is the time when, after a winter of introspection, it is the moment to bring our thoughts and plans for the coming year out into the open. As we then move through February and March we nurture and ‘grow’
Purple reign...
Said Dawn: “It’s the perfect symbol for what we’re trying to do here – beautiful, practical and local, all working together.”
BESIDES selling flowers on the market stall, The Walled Garden also produces floral bunches and bouquets, garlands and displays, for weddings, funerals and parties. “We work closely with our customers”, said Frankie. “It is increasingly important to them to be reassured that their flowers are
Seasonal eating
grown locally, without pesticides and air miles. “We’ve made some exciting arrangements using our flowers with ivy and other greenery on frames made from raffia and recycled wire. We take time over even small bunches – it’s all about shape and structure, colour and light.”
these plans ready to ride the ‘energy’ wave at the end of March with the Spring Equinox. So, as we emerge from ‘hibernation’ we can start to lighten our diet slightly, replacing some of the roots with greens like spicy rocket and purple sprouting broccoli to stimulate the liver. And as we move towards the end of March cutting back on tea, coffee and alcohol and having some green vegetable juices will also help clear out those dusty corners. The recipe this time came from the good old BBC and yes, I know it’s not really healthy but I figure that when we get to this point of the year a bit of chocolate with your veggies is a good idea….enjoy! And for those of you who want to know…. beetroot is high in betacarotene and folic acid and so is great for cleansing the liver (ok, when it’s juiced!) and can assist in lowering incidences of heart disease.
RECIPE: Chocolate Beetroot Cakes ADDING beetroot to a chocolate cake recipe makes it deliciously fudgy and moist... Ingredients 75g/2½oz cocoa powder;180g/6½oz plain flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 250g/8½oz caster sugar; 250g/8½oz cooked beetroot; 3 large eggs; 200ml/7fl oz sunflower or olive oil;1 tsp vanilla extract; icing sugar for dusting Method Preheat the oven to 180C/355F/Gas 4. Arrange paper muffin cases in a 12-mould muffin tin. Sift the cocoa powder, flour and baking powder into a bowl. Mix in the sugar, and set aside. Purée the beetroot in a food processor. Add the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla and oil and blend until smooth. Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients, add the beetroot mixture and lightly mix. Pour into the muffin cases. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is firm when pressed with a finger. Cool on a wire rack and dust with icing sugar to serve. Reconnect’s Seasonal Eating is written by Carol Lee, who offers one-to-one consultations and runs workshops and courses in nutrition, health and wellbeing. Call her on 01363 82794 or visit www.naturalfoodschool.co.uk
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local people local events local food local health local environment WELCOME back to Transition Noticeboard, the new regular update on Transition events which we launched in the last issue. We’ve received some great feedback and we’re happy to spread the word. This time we’ve got the simple but effective Skillshare from Transition Town Totnes, the Sustainable Crediton Clothes Swap, a fun bike ride organised by Exmouth’s XCycle and a look back at PL:21’s achievements for 2011. So a good reaction to our first Transition Noticeboard and some great material for our second. But we’re not easily satisfied and now of course we just want more... So if you’re involved in a Transition group, anywhere across the Reconnect region, do please get in touch. Our next issue is out at the end of March, covering April/May... you know what to do. Email us at editor@ reconnectonline.co.uk
Transition noticeboard
Learn a skill or pass on your own at Skillshares
TWO Skillshares from previous years - cob oven making, top, and bike maintenance, above
IT seems wholly appropriate, given the gradual passing of winter and the approach of Spring over the seasonal horizon, that something of a (unplanned) theme is creeping into this issue – that now is the time to get out there and do something. It might be something within the community, it might be some form of personal development, or it might be learning a new skill… and that’s where Transition Town Totnes (TTT) have come up with something so simple it’s pure genius. The TTT Skillshare is simply an opportunity for anyone who has a particular skill to pass it on. And it’s all free - with the exception of some subjects that involve suggested donations to cover the cost of materials. Outdoor Skillshares tend to be run on location (the tree grafting workshop on Dartington Estate, for example), whereas craft Skillshares might be run in the home of the person running them – like Holly Tiffen’s sourdough bread-making. TTT Skillshare organiser Annie Leymarie said: “Skillshares are a simple gift to the community - there’s no need to be an expert. “It’s an opportunity to explore with others any topic that supports our resilience – serious or fun, practical or poetical. A session can be as short or long as you wish, and you can choose the date, time and location; this ideally would be your home, but we’ll help find a venue if required.” To find out more, including how you could run one (or perhaps start up a Skillshare Project in your Transition
group), call Annie on 01803 762992 or email tttskillshare@gmail.com. Forthcoming Skillshares in the Totnes area include: Fruit Tree Grafting Workshop with Janta Wheelhouse of the Karuna Permaculture Project at School Farm, Dartington Estate, on Sunday February 5, 10am-1pm. All welcome regardless of ability to contribute, but there’s a suggested donation of £15-£50 to cover the cost of your own grafted apple tree and refreshments. Booking required: email larch. maxey@plymouth.ac.uk or call 01803 867512. A free Information Session on Welfare Rights with Dean Smith of the newly formed Totnes Claimants’ Union, at Birdwood House, 44 High Street, Totnes, on Tuesday February 7, 12.30-2pm. Find out more at totnesclaimantsunion@yahoo.co.uk. Un repas en français! Oui, oui, Oui! C’est bon! with Annie at 24 Huxhams Cross, Dartington, on Tuesday February 28 at 7pm. Find out more from Annie on a.l@zen.co.uk or 01803 762992. Sourdough bread-making with Holly Tiffen at 5 Western Villas, Collins Road, Totnes on Sunday March 4, 12.30-3pm. Email Holly at tiffenholly@gmail.com or call 07857 811994. Gardening for Beginners with James Blackman at 24 Huxhams Cross, Dartington, on Thursday March 15, 122.30pm. How to create and maintain a small organic ornamental/productive garden – part two on April 12. Find out more at tttskillshare@gmail. com or 01803 762992.
Slip into the Clothes Swap Day THE Sustainable Crediton Clothes Swap Day is back by popular demand. Everyone is invited to take along dresses, tops, trousers, skirts, jackets, coats and accessories (preferably all marked with size and on a hanger no footwear, underwear, or stained, dirty or damaged garments please) on the morning of Saturday, March 10, 10-11am. One of the organisers, Paula Mossman, explained: “You will then be given a ticket for each item you bring which you can exchange for another item on offer when shopping begins at 12 noon through to 3pm. If you run out of tickets, additional items can be purchased for just £1.” There will also be free
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demonstrations and advice on how to carry out simple clothing repairs; Ann Turner, an experienced professional curtain maker, will be demonstrating how to update and renovate curtains; and the local knitting and spinning groups will be there too. “If you have ever wanted to learn how to knit a simple garment or spin your own wool this is an ideal opportunity to find out and have a go under their guidance!” said Paula. The Sustainable Crediton Clothes Swap Day is on at the Boniface Centre in Crediton. Admission is £2.50. For more details (“and to donate hangers, please”) call Paula Mossman on 01363 866106 or email paula.mossman@lineone.net.
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Xcycle members prepare for their New Year fun ride
Campaigners take to cycle path THE Exe Estuary cycle track, which now links Exmouth with Topsham, is doing exactly what its providers intended – introducing more people to the joys of cycling.
One of the riders, Paul Strange, the LETS press officer, said: “There was comradeship, a chance to catch up with fellow TTE members and plenty to look at along the splendid cycle path.
Xcycle, the campaigning cycle group affiliated to Transition Town Exmouth, started the year as they mean to go on with a New Year fun ride from Exmouth to Topsham.
“In addition, some of the sections – particularly the hill coming out of Lympstone and the diversion around Exton – required a reasonable amount of energy, especially on my threespeed bike. It certainly felt that it was doing me some good.”
Over a dozen riders made the journey, one having borrowed a bike using the TTE LETS scheme with payment by Cockles. They started at the Exmouth swimming pool, led by Xycle’s Adrian Toole.
In all the ride took less than an hour, although celebratory drinks and some food at Topsham’s Bridge Inn took considerably longer.
Ivybridge group reflects on its successes in 2011 THE start of a new year is a time for reflection and PL:21, the Ivybridge Transition group, has been looking back over its 2011 achievements. The work of Transition groups is always more effective if they get the word out there – something Reconnect is always happy to help with. And it was good to see ‘communications’ at the top of their 2011 rundown, pointing to their presence at Ivybridge’s Spring In The Park and Lions Fun Day and Ermington’s Fair In The Square as examples of a job well done. And some of the effect of the group’s rising profile could be seen in PL:21 representatives being invited to stakeholder meetings on the future development of Ivybridge through its Masterplanning exercise and to advise on the South Hams and West Devon District Councils’ Housing Strategy Sub Group addressing the ongoing housing needs of the community. PL:21’s Friday Night Film Nights started in August and screenings have included In Transition Movie, Cuba - The Power of Community, The End of Suburbia and Martin Crawford’s Forest Garden. But one of their greatest success stories of 2011, say PL:21, was
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the inauguration of the Local Food Forum, which had its first meeting at Ivybridge’s The Watermark in May and evolved through meetings at both West Peek Farm, Bittaford and Thornham Bridge, Ermington. They say: “Any number of connections have been made through introducing local growers and producers to potential retailers and it has also helped to strengthen local markets and enabled people to share knowledge and best practice over growing techniques.” PL:21 has also established useful links with both the Ivybridge Allotment Association (Filham Diggers) and Ermington Companion Planters, leading to a combination of efforts at the now annual Seed Swap event. PL:21 also supported The Ermington Companion Planters in their setting up of the bi-weekly Ermington Sustainable Saturdays in the Ermington Reading Rooms. Again designed to get more local producers and growers supplying their local community, they have a full schedule planned throughout 2012. Find out more about PL:21 at www. transitionnetwork.org/initiatives/ ivybridge-pl21.
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How your community centre could go green A HANDFUL of community buildings in Devon have embraced renewables but there are still many more that could benefit from the various alternatives to fossil fuels. Early in 2010 we focussed on one such village, Rattery, where PV panels are now supplying electricity to their community hall and giving a good return on their investment. Rattery and other forward looking communities are now sharing their knowledge and experiences with others who are looking to embrace renewables in a project called Green Hubs. The first of five Green Hub events took place last November at Burrington Village Hall, which has
air source heat pumps and solar thermal, and on February 29 Rattery will host an event to spotlight their solar panel PV installation. Ground source heat pumps will be the topic at the following meeting on March 28 in Branscombe Village Hall. The aim of the project is for communities to learn the best renewable for their needs, meet experts and suppliers, network and share information over lunch and focus on funding. To book a place call Cara Stobart from the Devon Association of Community Buildings on 01392 248919 Ext 131 or email cara@ devonrcc.org.uk
Not to open before her birthday THERE’S a very special birthday present lined up for Elaine’s Stoves, the Okehampton-based woodstove and boiler specialist. On March 24, Elaine Ewer and her team will celebrate their eighth year in business with the opening of an extra new 63 square metre showroom in the building right next to their existing premises in Exeter Road. Said Elaine: “The neighbouring building became available and it was too good an opportunity to miss. Space was tight in our original showroom and we needed extra room to display some of our more contemporary design woodburners and our new range of pellet-fired stoves and boilers.”
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The new showroom will also house a fully operational Excel Heatbank heatstore, plumbed into one of their many working woodburners. There will also be an office dedicated to the micro generation scheme admin. Look out too for extra space devoted to what is rapidly becoming a secret vice for Elaine – log baskets… “We stock two ranges,” admitted Elaine, “but none of them are plain, boring baskets. We specialise in unusual shapes and materials – including a new range in leather. Very stylish.” Visit the new showroom at Fatherford Farm, Exeter Road, Okehampton, or call Elaine on 01837 52244.
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Solar power device saves the day THE threat of a reduction in Feed-in-Tariff payments for PV panels has concentrated the minds of users into getting the best return on their investment. Since we know the vast majority of the electricity generated by an average system is not used in the home, but is returned to the national grid, it seems sensible to find better ways of using that free energy stream. Now PV installers and pioneers Rudge Renewables have come
up with an ingenious and yet simple way of harnessing some of that electricity to produce hot water. Families are often away at work and school when the sunlight is bringing their systems to life. Now Rudge Renewables have begun production of a device that controls the hot water immersion heater so that it only cuts in when the PVs are producing sufficient power.
Said Chris Rudge: “It’s a current sensing relay which cuts in when it reaches a particular set limit. We’ve had one on test all Summer at a house in Seaton with a 2.5Kw system where the owner said he and his wife had not had to switch on the gas boiler once for hot water. It has run off free electricity the whole time. “We have now gone into production with the relay.” The device costs £250 to supply including postage and
Meditation centre focuses on bio mass heating system IT’S always good to hear an organisation is applying the same holistic approach to its everyday practical life as it does to its core business. And it really came as no surprise that Gaia House, near Newton Abbot, the largest meditation retreat in Europe, was installing a renewable energy heating system. Now up and running, it’s a biomass boiler and solar thermal heating system on an industrial scale – as you’d expect when you discover the much extended former monastery has more than 100 radiators.
Said Gaia House director Andy Power: “We already have a Biorock sewage treatment system and a recycling regime that sends a minimum of waste to landfill and creates compost for our own productive vegetable beds. “We wanted to take that environmental care further and, connecting with the ideas of our founder, environmentalist Christopher Titmuss, installed a system that would provide comfort for our many visitors but make a minimal impact on the planet.” The result is a massive 200Kw boiler, carefully concealed in an underground concrete bunker with a sedum roof. Fed automatically from an adjoining woodchip bulk store, the boiler heats a 4,000-litre accumulator tank, which is linked to the house and its 50+ bedrooms and dormitories. Five solar thermal panels provide hot water for washing up and showers. “The installation was carried out by Fair Energy, the Exeter-based social enterprise company, and we were delighted with their work,” said Andy. Visit www.gaiahouse.co.uk.
Eco firm for all home service needs EVEN today’s more sustainable homes are a mix of green features and basic services. You might have solar panels, for example, and some super-effective insulation. Maybe even some kind of rainwater harvesting system. But you’ll still have good old waterpipes and electrical circuits and white goods that decide to pack up just when you… well, you get the picture. Eco Trades, based in Paignton, say they offer all the services you need, from basic plumbing and wiring to renewable installations and repairs, including PV panels, solar thermal, air and ground source heat pumps, water harvesters and voltage reduction devices. “We’re a family-run business based on honest, ethical values,” said Vicky Seiflow, who runs the firm with her father Patrick. “Our business philosophy is founded
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on 40 years of construction and engineering experience. The team we employ have been carefully chosen to compliment this.” Eco Trades undertake all aspects of electrical, plumbing and heating work, from changing a lamp, or fixing a leaky tap, to larger jobs like re-wires, replacing consumer units and installing new/replacement boilers or heating systems. “Customers appreciate the wide range of services we offer,” said Vicky. “We are an approved supplier to many larger organisations, including the NHS and retirement homes, and we fully understand the requirements of the elderly, of those who work full-time and of other businesses. “We are proud of our testimonials and our ethical approach.” Visit www.eco-trades.co.uk, or call 01803 393530.
Two days of energy advice
VAT or £290 fitted for existing customers. Call Rudge Renewables on 01297 306114 or see: www. chrisrudge.co.uk THE 200Kw boiler, left, runs more than 100 radiators in the Gaia House meditation retreat
THE heating system and biomass fuel store are housed in a bunker under a seedum roof, below left
COMMUNITY buildings in South Devon are being offered up to two days of free energy efficiency and renewable energy advice. The service could involve a detailed site survey of your community building and a detailed report outlining potential energy saving and renewable technology options. This offer, advertised through the Devon Association of Community Buildings, is only available up to the end of March. To find out if your building qualifies, contact Fraser Durham on 0845 0745915 or Email bepositive@ anahatenergy.com
Your one stop shop for: Solar PV installations From mid December, we will be offering new lower cost systems keeping the FiT return up to 9% for ideal Southerly facing locations. Our trading record in Renewables and buying power enables us to offer some really great deals!
Solar Hot Water systems We are fully MCS accredited for Solar Hot water systems offering some attractively priced package systems. You’ll be set up for next year, when the Renewable Heat Incentive arrives. In the meantime, you’ll be able to pick up the interim payment of £300, plus bring down your rising fuel bills!
Wind Turbine Systems For rural locations Wind Power can be the best option, providing electricity generation day and night. We are MCS approved for this demanding technology, and will take your turbine system from initial survey, through planning, right to installation and commissioning
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local people local events local food local health local environment INFINERGY employees and local residents on a site visit
Windfarm’s critical phase THESE are crucial times for the Totnes Community Wind Farm project. It’s entering what the Totnes Renewable Energy Society (TRESOC) call the “critical phase” leading up to the application for planning permission for the two 2.3MW turbines planned for Luscombe Cross, just south of Totnes. There have inevitably been some objections to the scheme but Totnes Community Wind Farm (TRESOC and their partner Infinergy) say they have “worked hard to involve the community and to respond to doubts and criticism with openness, providing accurate information”. They have hosted several community events - an introductory event in October 2010, three site tours and an open day in the autumn of last year. The open day at Harbertonford Village Hall featured a noise workshop (the first of its kind) conducted by acoustics consultants Hayes McKenzie, specialists in wind turbine noise. Andy
McKenzie and Sylvia Broneske played typical wind turbine noise through two loudspeakers to produce a measured 40 decibels (dB(A)) in the middle of the third row of the audience. A hand-held sensor was passed around so people could check the value. Details of Hayes McKenzie’s findings can be downloaded from the news page at www. totnescommunitywindfarm.co.uk. TRESOC is now organising a letterwriting campaign and workshop for local people – not just TRESOC members – who are in favour of renewable energy to learn how best to convey their support of the turbines at a local governmental level. Find out more at www.tresoc.co.uk. Said TRESOC’s Jane Brady: “Possible locations for turbines in the South Hams are extremely limited and a tremendous amount of effort and care is going into this communityowned scheme. And the time to voice support is now.”
Community energy plan A SOUTH Devon community may soon be able to enjoy ‘free’ renewable energy - and anyone who gets involved to help make it happen will get a virtually guaranteed financial return. The scheme is inspired by a project operated in Bristol by Bristol Power, details of which you may have read in Robin Currie’s articles in recent issues. Bristol Power is based in Hamilton House, a building which it owns and shares with a large number of social charity organisations. They wanted to install solar panels - and earn a return of between 8% and 9% thanks to the original generous Feed-in Tariff. And, because the holdings would not be traded on the stock market, the capital invested would remain accessible and the trading price would never fall. The theory goes that such a project could be applied to a street, or a whole area, providing highly sociallyand environmentally-responsible investments that offer a virtually
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guaranteed return and no market volatility. And as a wonderful side-effect, a great many more households, including people who might not otherwise be able to afford solar panels, would get free energy. You can find out more about the Bristol Power project in a fascinating film at http://www.youtube.com/user/ ZeroCarbonBristol. There are a number of issues to sort out relating to things like the Feed-in Tariff, but work is going ahead to set up schemes in other areas – including one in Torbay. The man behind the local scheme is Andrew Baldrey and if you are interested in getting involved, he would love to hear from you at andrew.baldrey@torbay.gov.uk. And if you would like to set up your own local project and/or would be interested in investing in one, get hold of Robin Currie at robin.currie@ btconnect.com. And watch this space!
Project helps people and environment A TRAIL project at the Sharpham Estate, that “helps people in a way that also benefits the environment”, has proved an enormous success and is to develop into the future. The Sharpham Outdoors Project is a joint initiative between Sharpham Trust and Ambios Ltd, an environmental organisation with a mission to support people working with nature. Said project manager Jack Skuse: “Sharpham Trust and Ambios have built a relationship with another Sharpham tenant, Robert Owen Communities, an organisation based on an 80-acre farm that works with adults with learning disabilities. “The partnership is strong, the people involved are passionate and the environment at Sharpham is second to none. We are looking forward to some very exciting times ahead.” Find out more at www. sharphamtrust.org and www.ambios.net, or call Jack on 01803 732799.
A scene from The Shaughraun
Centre reveals new season THE Crediton Arts Centre has published its new season’s brochure and it’s looking good for Mid Devon culture hunters. The installation of new cinema equipment means East Street Films is up and running with screening of Blue Alchemy: Stories of Indigo, which tells the story of indigo, the world’s only natural source of blue (www.bluealchemyindigo.com). Be there 7.30pm for an 8pm start and pay £6 on the door. Saturday, March 10 is a chance to take in three top new music acts on one night – The Wax Room (post-punk pop as heard on Radio 1 and 4), the lo-fi loops of The Swamp Gods and the acoustic loveliness of young singer-songwriter Maz Totterdell, who has been heard on Radio 2’s Steve Lamacq show and on 6Music. It’s 7.30pm for that one with tickets at £5/£2.50 concessions. And on March 30 and 31, there’s a chance to see the indoors version of the comedy drama The Shaughraun, which got a little soggy when performed outside in the ‘Summer’. Tickets are £7/£5, with pre-show music kicking things off at 7.45pm both nights. Find out more (and download the current brochure) at the Crediton Arts Centre website, www.creditonartscentre.org.
Tell the actors just what you think IT’S always especially rewarding when you can relate to a theatre performance – and with Tarte Noir, right, it is virtually guaranteed. Tarte Noir describe their Playback Theatre as “a facilitated, creative and interactive encounter” in which the audience members speak of something meaningful in their lives – and the all-female cast then immediately turn it into theatre that authentically reflects the teller’s experience. Their new shows are at Crediton Arts Centre (March 6, 7.45pm,
£7/£5) and Bogan House in Totnes (March 20, 7.45pm, £7/£5). Find out more about Tarte Noir, including their alternative hen nights, at www. tartenoire.co.uk.
Yuli gives new spin to old tradition LOOK out for friend of Reconnect Yuli Somme in a BBC2 programme called Britain at Risk due to be aired sometime in February or March. The series looks at old British traditions that are gradually being lost – “but which odd people like me are trying to revive in some way,” says Yuli. “I was inspired by an old law of 1666 that decreed that the dead
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must be buried in wool,” said Yuli. “Given climate change, and the need to encourage localism, local sourcing and cutting down on fossil fuels, burial in wool still makes a lot of sense. My ‘soft coffins’, made from wool and wood, are a contemporary take on this traditional concept.” Find out more at www.bellacouche. com or call 01647 432155.
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Organic gardening TIME to prepare beds for spring planting - and even to get the first crops underway. Joa and Charlie from Growers have the full story as usual NOW the weather is getting warmer, it is the ideal time to prepare your vegetable beds for the Spring. For those of you who sowed green manures like Grazing Rye and Tares can start digging it back into the soil. And if they’ve got a bit big you can simply cut the tops off and add them to the compost bin. Leave these beds a month before sowing any seeds, or the decomposing process may also rot your seeds. Weed everything and everywhere before spreading a generous helping of homemade compost or bought soil conditioner over as many areas as you can. If you’ve grown purple sprouting broccoli, it should now be producing spears - and aren’t they worth waiting for?! Give them a really good feed like liquid Comfry or an organic general pelleted feed. At last we can start planting the first crops of the year: garlic, shallots and onion sets. Plant garlic pointed end up, about 4-6 inches apart and one inch below the surface. Onion sets should be planted 3-4 inches apart with the tops of the sets poking out of the ground. Treat the shallots in the same way, but with a spacing of 6-8 inches. Do check them regularly at this early stage because the birds can’t seem to resist pulling the odd one out, here and there. You can try and deter the birds by hanging shiny, reflective objects such as old CDs and tin foil trays. If you’re lucky enough to have a greenhouse in your garden now is the time to check its condition before you start sowing your small seeds. Check all the glass is OK and replace any broken or missing panes. At Growers, we line the greenhouses with bubble wrap for extra insulation and cover the seed trays and the young
Smart cloves... seedlings with horticultural fleece at night to help protect them from the frost. What to sow? Well, first check individual seed packets or catalogues for recommended sowing dates. Generally, most things can be sown from now on, including tomatoes, peppers, chillies, aubergines, brassicas, lettuces and beets. But when sowing, don’t use up the whole packet of seeds all at once. For a start, nobody wants to eat loads of one thing at once and also, if you have a failure, you’ve still got time to do a second sowing. Many types of seeds will last for a number of years. If you don’t have a greenhouse or large window sills, you can buy ready-grown vegetable seedlings and small plants which will start to be available (high quality and great selection available from Growers Organics, of course) at the beginning of March. Please do check, wherever you buy them from, that they have been hardened off and not come straight out of a greenhouse. If you suspect they are not, then harden them off yourself by putting them outside in the daytime and bringing them back in at night. Do this for about 7-10 days.
Find a job you love and you’ll never work a day in your life Career coaching, courses and events to set you free For details please ring 01392 811168 / 07977 272174 or visit www.happymondays.org.uk
the lively responses, uninhibited engagement and imaginative contributions that emerge from our
FUNERAL EXPLORATION WORKSHOPS always make them enjoyable , revelatory, fun , inspiring
Bring your thoughts, experiences, questions… and imagination for a morning to remember. Next workshop: Saturday March 10th, 10am-1pm, Totnes Natural Health Centre - cost £20
Jonathan Taylor
INdepeNdeNT fuNeral arraNger aNd CeleBraNT 01803 865380
Spuds you like? SEED potatoes are now available in most DIY stores and garden centres and what a selection there is. Start by deciding whether you want to grow an early or maincrop variety. ‘Earlies’ are ‘new’ potatoes that can be planted in March and then harvested from June onwards. The potatoes must be used as they are harvested because earlies can’t be stored. Maincrop can also be planted from March onwards, but they can stay in the ground as late as November, although they are usually dug out around September-October. These potatoes can also be stored and used throughout the year., so if you’ve got the space, it makes sense to plant an area of both, which may go some way towards making you self-sufficient in spuds. Most varieties will state what the particular type is good for - such as mashing, roasting, chips or baking. Reconnect’s Organic Gardening column is written by Joa and Charlie Grower of Growers Organics. Meet them in person at Totnes market on Fridays and Saturdays from March 2012. Visit www. growersorganics, or call 01752 881180.
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Unique ceremonies for weddings, namings, funerals and all special occasions in the South West with singer and celebrant Danu Fox. T: 01736 786267 M: 07870 634421 www.heartsongceremonies.co.uk
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Whitethorn puts together a new range WHITETHORN Woodcraft, whose wonderful green oak furniture we featured a few issues back, have moved into a new workshop “within sight of Haytor”. They’re currently busy on two community projects, but work will soon begin on a range of new designs
leading up to an exhibition later in the year. We’ll be looking at their new designs here in Reconnect soon, but if in the meantime you want to find out more about some very special furniture, you’ll find them at www. whitethornwoodcraft.co.uk.
Chilly? Just turn up the bed... WITH the inevitable cold snap now well overdue, many of you will be reaching for the hot water bottles or electric blankets. Such thoughts would bring a smile to the face of Exeter businessman Brian Cooper whose customers have no need for such devices. His clients are all sleeping on waterbeds which come with temperature controls. Brian, who runs Westcountry Waterbeds in Exeter’s Guildhall Shopping Centre, says: “Your bed is instantly cosy and relaxing and you go to sleep, normally within a
minute or two! The temperature control means you don’t wake up cold in the night no matter what the room temperature. “And the reduced tossing and turning means you enjoy a more comfortable and longer, deeper sleep, vital to good health and wellbeing.” Brian adds that temperature control is the number three unique benefit of sleeping on one of his waterbeds. The others are comfort, support, hygiene and durability. For info telephone 01392 411212 or visit www. water-beds-uk.com
WELLNESS THERAPY COUCH. More information? Call Susie at Sienna Therapies on 01326 218021.
Special discounts for therapists and Reconnect Readers. 16
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Green homes get green light A GREEN housing project is actively looking for new members after getting outline planning permission. The Totnes Cohousing Group, a Transition Town Totnes initiative, plans to build 25 homes, a mix of rented and owned, on Baltic Wharf in Totnes. Described as “an intentional village”, the development would include shared green space, orchard and growing space and a community house providing a hub for group activities like cooking, shared meals, meetings and running/attending groups and lectures. Said project spokesperson Marcea Colley: “Cars will be parked on the perimeter and be shared by the
residents so the village will be fully pedestrianised, safe for both children and elders, making it easier to gather and chat on your way to or from visiting friends. “The orchards and gardens will belong to all, and food will be grown for the community by the community. “The houses will be ecologically designed with solar power and a centralised boiler in the community house, with individual wood burners for those who want them.” To find out more, visit www. transitiontowntotnes.org/projects/ co-housing, or call Marcea on 01803 867809.
35 years experience in all aspects of building and design RepaiRs: major and minor alteRations: internal and external
Craftsmanship with a female touch
Renovation woRk: traditional and modern tanya & kevin 01364 631415 The K2 ParTnershiP LimiTed hello@k2ltd.co.uk
City partnership in bid for sustainability funds A STRONG partnership is emerging in Exeter aiming to claim a £1 million Big Lottery Fund grant to help communities within the city improve their environment and live more sustainably. Since the Communities Living Sustainably initiative was launched last year over 40 partners have signed up to the bid overseen by the Exeter Council for Voluntary Service (ECVS). Only 10 projects nationwide can qualify for the funds and expressions of interest had to be submitted before the end of January this year. Successful partnerships will be notified by the end of February and the project will start work by the end of October. The partnership, from across the public, private and voluntary sectors, aims to tackle a range of issues to improve sustainability particularly in areas of deprivation and is concentrating on the Exwick/St Thomas, and Beacon Heath/ Arena Park areas of Exeter. Simon Bowkett, Business Development Manager for Exeter CVS, said they wanted to change people’s behaviour and introduce a range of sustainable activities to cut waste, identify alternative energy sources, access and grow local foods and improve energy efficiency. “The response from all three sectors - public, private and community - has
THE first meeting of the partnership in January been tremendous. We have some real “heavyweight” organisations on board including the Met Office, the Environment Agency and both Devon County Council and Exeter City Council; as well as smaller, innovative organisations including Organic Arts, the Harvest Project and Transition Exeter.” If accepted, the project will receive an initial £10,000 to help develop a full project proposal which will compete as one of 10 sites to receive funding. Reconnect will follow the progress of the Exeter bid.
TOM HILLIARD
ltd
the craft of building excellence
• renovation / refurbishment / extension • contemporary & traditional materials & techniques • conservation / eco technologies - biomass, solar • high standards contributing to a sustainable future
Whitethorn Woodcraft
Traditional and Contemporary Designs in Wood All wood from local/ sustainable sources Commissions taken
01803 762807 | info@tomhilliardltd.com
07546 552880
w w w. t o m h i l l i a rd l t d . c o m
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local people local events local food local health local environment
Eco homes
Shop at centre of community JUST over six months after opening a new shop in Buckfastleigh, Refurnish is looking back on the first chapter of a success story. The shop has already sold household goods to over a thousand customers -everything from pots and pans to three-piece suites. “That’s one thousand items that could otherwise have ended up in landfill,” said volunteer training and support manager Karen Price. “We have also created 10 volunteering opportunities for local residents from a wide range of backgrounds and offer work-related training courses in skills such as portable appliance testing and first aid. “We also see regular customers drop in for a quick browse and chat as a part of their daily routine.”
Finding solutions through art A NEW Exeter project aims to acknowledge and explore concerns being raised within our communities – and then present its findings through a range of art forms. Exeter Forum 2012 is the idea of experienced creative arts facilitators Amerie Rose and Samantha Wraith. Said Amerie: “Too often the methods people use to express their discontent fall to protest, anger and violence. We believe strongly that by exploring these issues honestly and creatively, and then presenting our findings in an artistic way, we can offer the communities of Exeter a voice that is accessible to all and will be more readily heard.” At the core of the project is The Forum, which will be presented at the
Bike Shed Theatre (top of Fore Street, Exeter) on the fourth Sunday of each month throughout 2012, 6-9pm, £9/£6. With input from the audience, The Forum will consist of discussion and performances, featuring “puppetry, installations, games and other creative materials,” to create a model of ‘Exeter as we would like it to be’. The fourth weekend of the month is dedicated to The Lab, which will give participants the skills to find their voice and perform in The Forum. And finally The Outreach will take the whole process out into the community through workshops. Find out more from Amerie and Samantha at exeterforum2012@ gmail.com.
Hi-tech education centre plan for city The shop is also a small community resource centre, promoting local events, providing meeting space for campaign groups and supporting local artists (and stocking Reconnect!). Refurnish is currently in negotiations to extend their tenancy so watch this space for future news. Anyone interested in volunteering at Buckfastleigh can call in at the shop on Chapel Street or call Karen on 01752 927002.
A SOCIAL enterprise project in Exeter is looking for support to establish an alternative technology eduction centre for the South West. A1 Positive Recycling Project, which is a not-for-profit enterprise, wants to build up a management team to help lead the development of the project. It is also hoping to find space in a vacant city centre property as a base for the project. Neil Wintrip is the CEO and director for A1 which he started 15 years ago as an IT technician, upgrading and repairing computers and providing environmental cleaning services. A1 is now specialising in local data destruction, computer and mobile phone recycling, ink and toner cartridge sales and recycling. In May 2005 Neil received an Un Ltd level 1 Millennium award and a Co-op Community Dividend grant. Neil said the planned alternative technology education centre would be aimed at training, educating
and empowering adults with learning difficulties. He said he was looking for dynamic and committed individuals who could offer practical handson support and sound business or community advice to help run a pilot project and to become part of the management board on the A1 management team in Exeter. For further information and to arrange an interview call 01392 202779 or 07849462499.
Is your work a pain in the neck? COMPUTERS and cars are fast becoming the real weapons of mass destruction, says specialist Michael Brown, if only because of the large amounts of time we spend sitting in these environments. “They almost universally cause us to slouch and do not allow for moving about and releasing tensed muscles naturally,” says Michael, who helps to prevent back and neck pain and RSI using an approach based on the Alexander Technique. “This slouching encourages Forward Head Syndrome where the head is so far forward in space that as much as 30lbs of extra weight is being put on the neck. This is the most likely cause of the pain around the neck and shoulders often experienced after periods at the computer or laptop.
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“The muscle tension required to balance this extra weight also affects our posture and breathing, which in turn can give rise to the risk of coronary and vascular disease, poor digestion and back pain.” We can counteract the impact of our man-made environments, says Michael, by consciously bringing attention to the positioning and movement of the head, learning to sit in a balanced way and ensuring the ergonomics of the workstation suit our individual needs. “An Alexander Technique approach to restoring natural balance and effortless functioning will have a significant impact in ensuring you are feeling your best at the desk,” he says. Visit www.feelingyourbestatthedesk. co.uk or call Michael on 07775 528876.
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local people local events local food local health local environment
ONE of Mark’s images for Torbay Symphony Orchestra
Mark puts you in picture A NEW South Devon photography service could be a helping hand for startups, sole traders and charities. Newton Abbot-based photographer Mark Shuttleworth is offering selected clients a photoshoot and digital images at little more than cost in return for image credits and web links. Says Mark: “Professional photography services can be beyond a small business’s cashflow. But using poor photographs, or even none at all, puts them at a big competitive disadvantage, which could spell disaster - especially in a harsh economic climate.” So Mark has come up with a “mutual benefit solution”. “I will agree a focused brief,” he
explained, “bring full professional equipment on-site and deliver top class images free of usage royalties. The quid pro quo is that, on websites, emails, brochures, fliers, posters, etc, the photos are credited to Mark Shuttleworth Photography and refer to the website.” The photos may also appear in his own portfolio. Mark attaches great importance to the brief. Torbay Symphony Orchestra (www.torbaysymphony.org), for example, wanted images that would convey both classical gravitas and contemporary vitality. Visit www.msphotog.co.uk, or call Mark on 07827 666 495 to find out more.
Store stocks new eco range WHILE eco-friendly clothing is becoming more mainstream, most retailers are online, making trying on that dress a very trying experience. Jotty’s Lifestyle Store in High Street, Budleigh Salterton, is preparing to stock a new collection which fits their ethos of ethical clothing. The new ladies’ collection from Cornwall clothing company EKO is being launched in early March and includes organic and sustainable casual clothing from designer Helen Davies. Helen’s work is inspired by the art of Barbara Hepworth and the dramatic colour range of the Cornish coastline and uses new eco fibres, including bamboo and soya bean. As a former student of Falmouth College of Art, Helen gained a degree in fashion in Surrey but returned to Cornwall four years ago to found EKO Sense. Jotty’s will be offering the latest EKO Spring collection at its store in High Street, Budleigh Salterton which is also home to Jotty’s VOYA Spa. Continuing the ethical ethos, all of the facial and body products used are based on freshly harvested
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Buy online at www.jentletrading.co.uk
Making a difference Fairly traded, environmentally friendly products, sold in Devon with love
Bags made from reycled cement bags Scarves made from vintage saris Making a difference to people’s lives seaweed from along the Irish Coast and contain an abundance of minerals. The range is free from all impurities. After shopping or treatments you can relax in the store’s cafe bar. Visit www.jottyslifestyle.com, or call 01395 445559.
Jentle Trading
Visit www.jentletrading.co.uk or call Jenny now on 01803 868455
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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local people local events local food local health local environment THE 2012 festival season is brewing nicely and while we’d all love to spontaneously grab a rucksack and check out one when the mood takes us, chances are it would be fully booked, so you really do need to think about getting those tickets booked now. But with so many great festivals here in the Westcountry, where do you start? How about right here? We’ve got an event-by-event rundown, plus the full story on TWO great storytelling festivals. See you there! Quest 2012
Newton Abbot Racecourse July 13-15 Quest describes itself as “your natural health show” but it’s so much more than that, offering a rich, family-friendly three-day mix of stalls, workshops and performances. It’s a unique event and attracts visitors from across the country so we’re lucky to have it on our doorstep. Full story - page 5 Visit www.questuk.co.uk
The Gathering
Tapeley Park, Instow May 5-6 NOT to be confused with the GREEN Gathering, this one is heavy on didjeridoo content and unusual in that there are no set performances over the weekend – think “nonstop, didje-oriented open mic and jam session.,” say the organisers. Tapeley Park’s lovely too. Visit http://thenattyshed.co.uk/ gathering.htm
The Green Gathering
Chepstow August 2-5 THIS one’s outside the Westcountry but an event that describes itself as “ethical, organic, holistic, esoteric, energetic and alternative” should surely be in your diary. Now happily settled at its permanent base, Piercefield Park in Chepstow, Monmouthshire, it’s powered by renewable energy and includes workshops on every aspect of green living. Visit www.greengathering2012. co.uk
2 in e v lo l l ' u o y ls a iv t s e F
MUSIC arts and lifestyle festivals are thriving across the UK – and nowhere more than in the Westcountry. We have (probably more than) our fair share of excellent music festivals here in the Westcountry, but we’re also fortunate to have a number of unique lifestyle events within striking distance. So we’ve brought together info on all those we think will interest
Beautiful Days
Escot Park August 17-19 WINNER of ‘Best Family Festival’ in the UK Festival Awards, and celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, this is one not to be missed. Organised by The Levellers, it will have six stages, a huge children’s area, comedy, healing area all manner of other festival goodies – plus, of course, some great (as yet TBA) music. And absolutely no tacky commercial branding. Visit www.beautifuldays.org
Sunrise Celebration
Bruton, Somerset June 21-24 SUNRISE was a 2011 Ethical Travel Award winner AND was voted Best Green Festival by Green Parent magazine. It’s the perfect mix of great music and ethical living stalls and workshops and has moved to these dates to coincide with the Solstice weekend – where it began seven years ago and to which it owes its name. Visit www.sunrisecelebration. com
Animated Exeter Feb 11-19 LAUNCHED by Exeter City Council (I know, I know) in 1999, Animated Exeter is now an independent company, with an annual audience of around 21,000. As well as showing some truly amazing animated films, the festival also aims to excite and inspire young people and works closely with local schools. Visit www.animatedexeter.co.uk
Reconnect readers. Not all the line-ups are finalised as we go to press, of course, but they all have a website address so you can go there for the full details as and when it’s revealed. And we would always recommend checking out the websites anyway in case of lastminute changes or cancellations. You can also check out our Diary pages (22-23 in this issue) for a regular at-a-glance festival listing. We’ll also be running more stories over the coming issues, so if you’re involved in a festival or event and you think Reconnect readers need to know about it, do please email us - editor@ reconnectonline.co.uk. LEFT: The Iron Men and Severn Gilders at the Sidmouth Folk Week
Vibraphonic
Exeter March 9-24 WITH a strapline of ‘one city under a groove’, Vibraphonic is a sort of jazz and soul and blues and reggae and electronica and funk and drum and bass and world music festival – not very snappy and probably why they called it Vibraphonic. One thing is definite - you WILL find something there you’ll just love. Visit www.vibraphonic.co.uk and www.exeterphoenix.org
Sidmouth Folk Week
Venues across Sidmouth August 3-10 IF you like your music folkier, you can do no better than visit Sidmouth during this week. Big names in the 2012 line-up already include Jane Tabor, Oysterband and Eliza Carthy. Early Bird tickets until March 31 so don’t delay – there will be HUGE demand for some of these gigs… Visit www.sidmouthfolkweek. co.uk
Crediton Folk Festival
Cheriton Fitzpaine April 13-15 FROM traditional folk to festivalpleasers Seize The Day, this is one busy weekend and a must for local folk lovers. It’s cheap (£20 for an adult full weekend ticket) you can camp on-site, and there’s a Feast of Floralia (the Roman Goddess of Spring and flowers) banquet in the Half Moon pub on the Sunday. Somehow it feels appropriate for folk festivals to be small and local. What’s not to like? Visit www.poppyrecords.co.uk
THE Green Gathering
Ashburton Blues Festival
Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot June 1-3 OUR friends at Seale-Hayne are providing a new venue for this established blues fest. Headliners this year include the very hot Eric Bibb, the legendary Elkie Brooks and THE (capitals used advisedly) Andy Fairweather Low with his band The Low Riders. The new venue means loads of room for fringe gigs plus eateries and even accommodation if you want to stay over. Visit www. ashburtonbluesfestival.com
Ways With Words
Dartington Hall July 6-16 LONG established as one of THE literary festivals on the UK circuit, Ways With Words brings book-lovers together with great writers in a truly atmospheric and intimate setting. This year’s line-up is TBA, but it will include big names, big thinkers and big ideas. Visit www.wayswithwords.co.uk
Chagstock
Chagford July 20-21 ANOTHER great family friendly festival’, Chagstock usually has one or two bigger names (last year they had The Magic Numbers, Bellowhead and The John Otway Band), plus a host of great but not so familiar bands, including the pick of the local talent. Loads of stuff for the kids too and numbers are limited to 500 to make sure things stay chilled. Visit www.chagstock.info
Look out for our new festivals section in the Going Out Diary over the page... 20
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WO
Malm July IT sta and D expec acros and f great mess poten Visit
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Dart Octo SOM Moor chora with t choir venue includ Exete churc from and C mara Visit com
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local people local events local food local health local environment
2012!
Tradition that lives on in hearts and heads
Jan Blake
Jan in the world cafe
OMAD
mesbury, Wiltshire 27-29 ands for World of Music, Arts Dance and, as you would ct, brings together artists from ss the world. Very laid-back family-friendly, it promises a t weekend with an underlying sage promoting the worth and ntial of multiculturalism. t www.womad.org
o Moors Festival
tmoor and Exmoor ober 11-20 ME way off yet, but the Two rs is an absolute must for all al and classical music fans, the very cream of musicians, rs and conductors performing in es from Dartmoor to Exmoor, ding the more obvious like er Cathedral, but also in village ches. Concert goers travel as far as Europe, America Canada for this 10-day music athon. t www.thetwomoorsfestival.
WHEN Jan Blake, one of Britain’s outstanding female storytellers, made her first appearance at the Westcountry Storytelling Festival in 2010, she made a huge impression on audiences with her exuberant, witty, earthy style. She has worked as an artist in residence at various theatres in England, developing particularly close links with the National Theatre (she’s their storytelling consultant), the London Philharmonic Orchestra, The Deptford Albany, the Lyric Theatre in Hammersmith and Battersea Arts Centre. She is closely involved with projects that will develop a new generation of British storytellers of African and Caribbean descent and will be telling stories for children and adults and facilitating a world café session at Embercombe – don’t miss her! www.janblakestories. com.
E Sunrise Celebration
STORIES can be traced back to the very beginnings of oral communication. We tell stories all the time – about what happened to us in the past, yesterday, this morning; we repeat stories others have told us… it’s one of the ways we make meaning of our lives. Perhaps that’s why, despite the recession, storytelling festivals are thriving. In this age of endless download and upload, the live performance has authenticity and impact. To sit soaking up the sunshine or under the stars around a roaring fire at night gives us a visceral feel for who we really are and what we can and want to do. The old stories, myths and legends, folk tales and fairy stories are encoded with the wisdom of our ancestors – we don’t need to decode it necessarily, we can just absorb the images and words in our inner landscapes as children do and learn in a more intuitive, less rational way. On the Bank Holiday 2012, August 24-27, at Embercombe, near Exeter, Reconnect will be part of the 8th Westcountry Storytelling Festival. And trust us, anyone who comes
Martin Shaw
Martin’s big all-nighter
along will be telling stories about it themselves for months to come. All the big names in storytelling will be there plus crafts, activities, walks, fire ceremonies, tipis and yurts to stay in (if you book quickly!) poetry, puppetry, fooling, live music, workshops and delicious organic food in the stunning setting of the Embercombe valley, with woods, water and meadows looking out over Dartmoor and Haldon Forest. The last Westcountry Storytelling Festival sold out so visit the website and book now (especially if you want a tipi or yurt to stay in) - www. weststoryfest.co.uk .
No need to wait for the magic of storytelling IF the summer seems a long time to wait for some inspirational storytelling, look no further than the Winter Storytelling Festival at the Steiner School in Dartington. This new, intimate event is a collaboration between the Wood Sisters, the Westcountry Storytelling Festival, the Westcountry School of Myth, Embercombe and yes, Reconnect will be there too. It promises to be magical fun for the whole family, with puppetry (including giant puppets and shadow puppets), procession, crafts, theatre, workshops, bonfire, live music, Breton dance and delicious organic food. Plus for adults who want to dive deep into
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STORIES are often told to children before they go to sleep – but they can also be the perfect reason to stay awake. An all-night highlight of the Westcountry Storytelling Festival will be a darknessto-dawn Dartmoor song-line of stories, from the grandeur of the arrival of Brutus of Troy through to an early 20th century wassailing story from the hamlet of Scoriton, with storyteller and mythologist Dr Martin Shaw. Says Martin: “This epic journey over several thousand years is a kind of secret cultural history, a hedgerow education to the living spirit of an England that once was and could be again.” Martin spent four years living nomadically under canvas to deepen both his experience of being a wilderness-rites-of passage guide, and to explore the idea of wildness within the English landscape. Find out more about Martin at www. schoolofmyth.com.
the world of story and spirit, there are tales, meditation, walks, talks, poetry, and stalls. The festival is on Friday and Saturday, February 3 and 4, as part of National Storytelling Week. Storytelling Laureate Katrice Horsley will be making a guest appearance on the Saturday, along with Martin Shaw, Alice and Peter Oswald, Clive Fairweather, The Humdrazz, Bardic Babes, Tarte Noire and a whole host of others. Tickets are on sale now at www.woodsisters. co.uk, or you can drop in for individual performances and pay on the door. There’s plenty of parking, but no overnight camping.
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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local people local events local food local health local environment
Fountain International Conference 21st-22nd April 2012. £50.00
St Anne’s Hall, Torquay TQ1 3SN
Magical Landscapes and Inspriational Healing For info contact: fountaininternationalmagazine.com suzanne@eaglebear.fsworld.co.uk Tel 01803 316146 inc answerphone
SPEAKERS INCLUDE: Paul Broadhurst, David Wells (TV and media astrologer), Christian Kyriacou, Colin Kingshott, Jan Harper Whale
FEBRUARY
Topics include: Sacred Landscapes, Earth Energy, Healing and Astrology
Back by Popular Demand!
Craft & Holistic Fair March 10th-11th, 11am-5pm, Imperial Hotel, Torquay Clairvoyants, Healing, Tarot, Complementary Therapies, Craft Stalls and much more...
SATURDAY 4 Seedy Saturday with The Seedy Sisters, swap seeds, stories and inspiration, Birdwood House, Totnes, 11am-3pm; gardeners’ question time 1.302.30pm, £1 entry, www. transitiontowntotnes.org Celebrations and Birthdays, a workshop with Early Childhood Specialist Joy de Berker. Exeter Steiner School. 9.30am-12.30pm, £20, exetersteinerschool@ phonecoop.coop 01392 841425 Woodsisters Winter Storytelling Festival, South Devon Steiner School, www.woodsisters.co.uk
FREE Admission www.bodymindspirit.org.uk Tim Barrs Poster2.indd 2
NEW to the Going Out diary this time is the Festivals section - a chronological rundown of everything in the Westcountry (and a few beyond) that we reckon is worth checking out. As always, we’d love to hear from you if you think we’ve missed one. Likewise, if you’re
02/09/2011 15:23
Discover tree planting with Trees for Health, Underwood Discovery Centre, Beeson, 11am4pm, www.treesforhealth. org, info@treesforhealth. org. SUNDAY 5 Woodsisters Winter Storytelling Festival, South Devon Steiner School, www. woodsisters.co.uk MONDAY 6 Reginald D Hunter, comedian, Exeter Phoenix, 8pm, www.exeterphoenix. org.uk, 01392 667080. TUESDAY 7 Tarte Noire Women’s Playback Theatre Performance, Cygnet New Theatre, Friars Gate, EX2 4AZ, 7.45, £7/£5. www. tartenoire.co.uk. Poetry Conversation with Alice Oswald, Sharpham House, Ashprington, Totnes, suggested donation £5, 7.30pm, www. sharphamtrust.org. SATURDAY 11 UNTIL SUNDAY 19 Formations in Nature, exhibition of work by Sara Gilbert, Susan Ash & Graham Gilbert, Harbourhouse gallery, Kingsbridge, 01548 854708 www. harbourhouse.org.uk. Tree planting & tree care training/volunteer day with Trees for Health & Transition Town Totnes, Follaton Arboretum, Totnes, 10am-4pm, Wendy Stayte, 01803
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involved in any forthcoming local event you think Reconnect readers would love, let us know and we’ll get it in. The next issue covers April and May and we need to know by March 9. Email editor@reocnnectonline. co.uk. Press tickets always appreciated...
868305, wendystt997@ googlemail.com. Cafe Etc..., Free event, local art, live music and stalls from TTE and Exmouth LETS, Axis Centre, Market Street, Exmouth, 11am-4pm, www.transitiontownexmouth. co.uk/ How to draghtproof your house with Transition Exeter, Belmont Hut, Belmont Park,10 am-1 pm, £10/concs, book with admin@transitionexeter.org. uk, 01647 24789, www. transitionexeter.org. Plymouth LETS market, Unitarian Church Hall, City Centre, 2-3.30pm, 01752 706552, info@ plymouthlets.org.uk. SUNDAY 12 Dartmoor walk for cancer carers with mountain leader Verran Townsend, see page 31 or email verran@ outsideinsights.co.uk, call 07803 077304. TUESDAY 21 UNTIL SUNDAY 26 Exhibition of paintings, printmaking, textiles and mixed media works, Harbourhouse gallery, Kingsbridge, 01548 854708 www. harbourhouse.org.uk. FRIDAY 24 The South (formerly The Beautiful South), Exeter Phoenix, 8pm, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080. SUNDAY 26 Sacred Song, singing with Alison Whittall, Friends Meeting House, Magdelan Street, Exeter, 6.30-9.30pm, www.alising.co.uk, alising@ btopenworld.com. TUESDAY 28 UNTIL MARCH 4 Paintings by Bev Carson, Harbourhouse gallery, Kingsbridge, 01548 854708 www. harbourhouse.org.uk. Tarte Noire Women’s Playback Theatre Performance, The Jolly Farmer - upstairs, 8 Market Street, TQ12 2RB, 7.45, £7/£5. www.tartenoire. co.uk.
MARCH FRIDAY 2 TTE: Sharing Our Food and Purpose, includes pot
luck supper and discussion, Open Door Centre, Church Street, Exmouth, 6.30pm, www.transitiontownexmouth. co.uk/ TUESDAY 6 UNTIL SATURDAY 10 Art, photography and textiles by Kingsbridge Community College students, Harbourhouse gallery, Kingsbridge, 01548 854708 www. harbourhouse.org.uk. Tarte Noire Women’s Playback Theatre Performance, Crediton Arts Centre, East Street, Crediton, EX17 3AX, 7.45, £7/£5. www.tartenoire. co.uk FRIDAY 9 UNTIL FRIDAY 24 Vibraphonic festival, various venues in Exeter, wide range of music including jazz, blues, soul, reggae, electonica, funk, drum ‘n’ bass and world music, Exeter Phoenix, www.exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080. TUESDAY 13 UNTIL SUNDAY 18 Exhibition of work from Kenya and Devon by Ben Oelmann, Harbourhouse gallery, Kingsbridge, 01548 854708 www. harbourhouse.org.uk. WEDNESDAY 14 The Unhappy King, accordionist Tim Dalling, Newton & Noss Village Hall, 7.30pm, 01752 873026, www. villagesinaction.co.uk. THURSDAY 15 Squashbox Theatre, Universarama, Puddington Village Hall, 4pm, 01884 860200, www. villagesinaction.co.uk. The Unhappy King, accordionist Tim Dalling, Newton St Cyres Parish Hall, 7.30pm, 01392 851949, www.villagesinaction.co.uk. FRIDAY 16 Squashbox Theatre, Universarama, Talaton Parish Hall, 5pm, 01404 822796, www. villagesinaction.co.uk. The Unhappy King, accordionist Tim Dalling, Lustleigh Village Hall, 7.30pm, 01647 277498, find out more at www. villagesinaction.co.uk.
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local people local events local food local health local environment SATURDAY 17 Squashbox Theatre, Universarama, South Brent Village Hall, 8pm, 01364 72617, www. villagesinaction.co.uk. The Exe Factor, music, comedy and poetry, The Bath House, Exmouth, 7.30pm, £6, p.c.bennett18@ btopenworld.com, 01395 576847.
11.30am, www. transitiontownexmouth.co.uk
FESTIVALS FEBRUARY MON 11-TUES 19, Animated Exeter, celebration of all things animated, www. animatedexeter.co.uk MARCH
The Unhappy King, accordionist Tim Dalling, Awliscombe Parish Hall, 7.30pm, 01404 43480, www.villagesinaction.co.uk.
FRI 9-SAT 24, Exeter Vibraphonic, soul, blues, drum and bass and jazz music, plus more, at venues across the city, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk
SUNDAY 18
APRIL
Squashbox Theatre, Universarama, Milton Abbot Village Hall, 2pm, 01822 870484, www. villagesinaction.co.uk. Sing into Spring! Awakening – Lift Your Heart and Sing day, St Matthews HalL, Fore Street, Topsham, 10.30am – 4pm, , www. alising.co.uk, alising@ btopenworld.com. Dartmoor walk for cancer carers with mountain leader Verran Townsend, see page 31 or email verran@ outsideinsights.co.uk, call 07803 077304. The Unhappy King, accordionist Tim Dalling, Axmouth Village Hall, 7.30pm, 01297 20679, www.villagesinaction.co.uk.
FRI 13-SUN 15, Crediton folk Festival, www. poppyrecords.co.uk/ crediton/cred.htm FRI 27-MAY SUN 6, Exmoor Walking Festival, www.exmoorwalkingfestival. co.uk MAY SAT 5-SUN 7, The Gathering, didjeridoo-based weekend of music and fun, Tapeley Park, Instow, North Devon SAT 5- MON 7, Bristol Folk Festival, Colston Hall, Bristol, www. bristolfolkfestival.com FRI 11- SUN 13, Dart Music Festival, various venues, Dartmouth, www. dartmusicfestival.co.uk
TUESDAY 20
JUN
Tarte Noire Women’s Playback Theatre Performance, Bogan House, High Street, Totnes, TQ9 5NP, 7.45, £7/£5. www. tartenoire.co.uk
FRI 1-SUN 3, Ashburton Blues Festival, Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, www. ashburtonbluesfestival.com
SUNDAY 25 Sacred Song, singing with Alison Whittall, Friends Meeting House, Magdelan Street, Exeter, 6.30-9.30pm, www.alising.co.uk, alising@ btopenworld.com. SATURDAY 31 Exeter Pride 2012, a celebration of multiculturalism, events across Exeter, Exeter Phoenix, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080. Plant A Tree With TTE, Pound Lane, Exmouth,
SAT 2-SUN 3, Exeter Respect, celebration of diversity, Belmont Park, Exeter, www.exeter-respect.org SAT 16-SAT 23, Golowan Festival, music, dance, crafts and more, Penzance, www. golowan.org WED 20-THURS 21, Summer Solstice, Stonehenge, www. stonehenge.co.uk THURS 21-SUN 24, Sunrise Celebration, ‘ethical living and music festival’, Bruton, Somerset, www. sunrisecelebration.com JULY FRI 6-MON 16, Ways
With Words, literary festival, Dartington Hall, www. wayswithwords.co.uk WED 11-SUN 15, Larmer Tree Festival, diverse music, comedy and theatre festival, Salisbury, www. larmertreefestival.co.uk FRI 13-SUN 15, Quest, wellbeing, music and dance festival, Newton Abbot racecourse, www.questuk. co.uk FRI 20-SAT 21, Chagstock, ‘family friendly festival’, Chagford, www.chagstock. info AUGUST TBA, Aeon Festival, ‘boutique music festival’, local music and Crediton (dates TBA - the 2011 event was on August bank holiday weekend), www. aeonfestival.com THURS 2-SUN 5, Green Gathering, ‘all things green and esoteric’, Piercefield Park, Chepstow, Monmouthshire, www. greengathering2012.co.uk FRI 3-FRI 10, Sidmouth Folk Week, at venues ac ross the town, www. sidmouthfolkweek.co.uk FRI 3-SUN 5, Cornwall Folk Festival, Wadebridge, www.wadebridgefolk.co.uk FRI 17-SUN 19, Beautiful Days, small family-friendly music festival, Escot Park, Ottery St Mary, www. beautifuldays.org
Sunday Shopping Fairs 2012 The Exmouth Pavilion The Seafront, Exmouth 10.00 am to 4.00 pm
Sunday 25th March Sunday 22nd April Sunday 6th May Sunday 27th May Art, Crafts & Gifts Presented by LOCAL craft workers A real change from the high street
FREE ENTRY A Shopping Experience Exmouth Craft Fairs 01395 263495
www.exmouthcraftfairs.com
FRI 24-MON 27, Westcountry Storytelling Festival, Embercombe, in conjunction with Reconnect magazine, www. weststoryfest.co.uk FRI 31-SEPT SUN 2, End of the Road Festival, ‘intimate music festival’, Tollard Royal, Salisbury, www.endoftheroadfestival. com OCTOBER THURS 11-SAT 20, Two Moors Festival, choral and classical music on Dartnoor and Exmoor, www. thetwomoorsfestival.com NOVEMBER FRIDAY 16, Home 2012, festival of acoustic world music, Dartington Hall, www.dartington.org
Experimental ceramics, glass & firing workshop
Raku firing day £60. Saturday, February 25th. Raku firing intensive weekend course £120, March 3rd - 4th. Tel: 01803 865033 www.pottingshedworkshop.com
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Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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local people local events local food local health local environment
Farewell... just for now! This is the last regular column from Robin - but he’s still got plenty to say... WELL, this is the last of the regular articles I’m going to write for Reconnect. It’s something I’ve been doing for quite a few years but it’s just one of a number of changes in my life recently and I will still be contributing so I’m not saying ‘goodbye’ as much as ‘Have a good new year and we’ll be in touch…’ Having said that, you may be interested to know what else is going on. And first I must pass on my thanks and enormous appreciation to so many of you for your wonderful response and feedback to my ceramics exhibition at Unearth Studio in Exeter before Christmas. Not least because we sold about 20% of the pieces in two days and I’ve had so many enquiries since then. I’m really chuffed! Incidentally, I have made some more pieces which you can see on the website www.robincurrie. co.uk! Subtle? Me? Secondly, there was the Everyone is Intuitive’ workshop, which Mary Hykel Hunt and I ran at the end of last year. Again, reactions to that were so incredibly positive that we’ll be running another one in April. So if you’re interested in realising that you’re intuitive or psychic but don’t know what it means or how to proceed, give us a call and we’ll book you in – details in the advert below, by the way! The third thing is that I’m still writing the novel I started nearly 12 years ago and which is getting close to being completed and, hopefully, printed. One of the things I hope to get mentioned in Reconnect! And finally there’s the solar power system in Bristol which I’ve been supporting – and which has finally happened! You can read the full
details in Local Energy, and it’s more than possible that, having seen the video, people (such as you!) may well be interested in getting involved in, setting up and/or investing in similar projects in this area… This means we can potentially help and support poor people, produce electricity which doesn’t damage the environment and offer investors both a virtually guaranteed return of 8-9 per cent and access to their capital. Moreover, the organisations establishing these projects will be proper collective trusts rather than limited companies, which means that there will be no volatility in the trading price - because it won’t be on the stock market! Good idea? I reckon. If you are interested, call me on 01392 411630. It will take some time to set up each project, but if we have enough people wanting to get involved, it will definitely happen. Find out more on page 14. And that’s about it for the time being. Although there may well be other things coming up… and they may well be in Reconnect! Which I love! As well as you all!
We must learn to care for woods GONE are the days when woodland in this country could look after itself, says woodlander Kenny Comain, above. “Introduced species both flora and fauna and decline of native species have upset the balance irrevocably,” he says. “So our woodlands now need us to care for them if they are to thrive.” Kenny runs courses around the country offering people the necessary knowledge and skills to enable them to offer that care. “The course covers the whole ecosystem and provides a guide to managing resources present from timber to fauna,” says Kenny. “It all takes place in the woodland and is very ‘hands on’.
“As a culture we are moving away from our natural heritage, resulting in a loss of understanding about nature and how it works. We have a tendency towards seeing things individually and missing context; how they connect together. This has frightening connotations for us as a species and also for the land itself. “Our woodlands have so much to offer us. If we value them they will bestow this value upon us. The same could be said about a lot of things.” Kenny’s next course in Devon is at Steward Wood on Dartmoor, February 25-26. Call 07866 982 985, visit www. inharmonywithwoodland.co.uk.
Alison’s on song with a new group THERE’S yet more tuneful activity in the melodious world of choir leader Alison Whittall, who we featured in the last issue. Alison has taken over as leader of the Plymouth Community Choir, based at the Unitarian Church Hall in Notte Street, Plymouth, and meets on Monday nights, 7-8.30pm. The choir sings “glorious global harmonies” and is looking for new members, men and women. “Just get your vocal chords warmed up and come along,” says Alison. And if you are in North Devon there is Ploughcappella at The Plough
You can email Robin at robin. currie@btconnect.com and see his weird and wonderful ceramics at www.robincurrie. co.uk
Because you ARE psychic
(...even if you don’t know it yet)
Arts Centre in Great Torrington on Tuesday Nights at 8pm. Meanwhile, Sacred Song in Exeter continues to meet at the Friends Meeting House in Magdalen Street on the last Sunday of every month, 6.30-9.30pm. The next dates are Feb 26 and March 25. And the next Lift Your Heart And Sing days in Topsham (10.30am – 4pm at Matthews Hall in Fore Street) are on Sunday, March 18 (Sing into Spring!) and Sunday, June 17 (The joy of Summer). Find out more at www.alising.co.uk or email alising@btopenworld.com.
Everyone Is Intuitive Workshops with Robin Currie and Mary Hykel Hunt in April date and venue to be arranged
‘ EEEEyyyy ii nnniiiii Brilliant refresher! Lovely to work with both of you. Very enjoyable day. Great to be in touch with our authentic self. Loved the day. Tough on concentration, but really effective in shifting energy! Very enlightening. Excellent and energising! Showed how such simple exercises, well presented, lead us each to wonderful personal insights and healings! It was a thoroughly enjoyable day. Balance was excellent with both Robin and Mary coming over/connecting with the group. I got a lot from it.
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Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk
To book: call Robin on 01392 221129 or Mary on 01404 45262 or email robin.currie@btinternet.com or maryh2@btinternet.com www.reconnectonline.co.uk
local people local events local food local health local environment
Kids enjoy doing ‘dad stuff’ on Saturdays THERE’S no doubt that fathers are generally playing a more active role in the parenting of their children in these more enlightened days. But there are still all too few opportunities for dads to get together with their young kids to do dad stuff. This was a problem dad Ian Blackwell encountered back in 2007. He would take his young children along to the Totnes Children’s Centre (TCC), and he enjoyed the time he spent there, but he was usually the only father and inevitably things tended to be a little mum-orientated. He and Dan, a helper at the centre, decided that to attract more (or even some) dads, the activities needed to be adventurous and a little more… well, dangerous. And so, with funding from the TCC, the first Dangerous Dads meeting was held in November 2007. The theme was ‘fire’ starting with a visit to the fire station, followed by cooking over an open fire (with the help of a bushcraft expert) at Sharpham, and with a visiting fire juggler for some real drama. Right from the start it was a huge success. That first meeting attracted 20 dads with their under-fives and today, some 50 events later, their Saturday afternoon meetings are proving just as popular. Said Ian: “Things have fallen into a seasonal pattern, with activities appropriate to the weather and what we have around us. “So we might go for a muddy walk, with a forest school leader helping us discover edible plants in the hedgerows which we then cook up and eat. “One of the Autumn afternoons is dedicated to apples, in the orchard at Dartington, where we collect the fruit, press them and drink the juice. “And in the Spring, birdbox making is very popular.”
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There are more conventional outings too, to the aquarium or the zoo, as well as community projects, like the allotment gardens they created with the nursery groups, Daisy and Rainbow. “It’s the perfect way to reach dads,” said Ian. “It’s not a club, so fathers can just drop in whenever they can make it. “Kids make new friends because they meet others from different nurseries and playgroups, and they all live in different parts of Totnes and the surrounding villages. “For the dads, it’s the perfect source of peer support and advice. They also get to see other dads doing positive parenting and realise it’s ok to sing with the kids, to change nappies and to simply have fun.” Dangerous Dads has a firm ‘no women’ policy and despite some very active Saturday afternoons, with a good deal of tree climbing and swinging on ropes, they have never had any injuries. “According to the children centre’s statistics, more Totnes dads engage in children’s activities compared with those from other areas of the UK – perhaps as you would expect,” says Ian. “But since Dangerous Dads started, there has still been a big rise.” Dads pay just £3 a session and the kids go free – a maximum of two and one of whom has to be under five (there’s a £1 charge for any children over 6). But successful events do need paying for and Ian is clear that funding
FIRE, cooking outdoors, dirt and knives - everything a child needs for an afternoon of fun with the Dangerous Dads from the TCC, which also pays for his time, is crucial. New dads are always welcome and the group constantly changes, as children get older, new younger children come along, and families move in and out of the area.
Ian is also happy to offer any advice he can to dads wanting to start up similar groups in other areas. To find out more, call Ian on 01803 840990, email dangerousdads@ btinternet.com or visit www. dangerousdads.org.
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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WELCOME to Wellbeing. We hope you enjoy Reconnect’s unique guide to who’s doing what in natural therapy and personal development across the area. And if you offer a therapy and want to spread the word here it’s easy - and inexpensive. Give us a call and we’ll talk you through writing
and designing the advertisement and write a story to tell your story in language that readers will understand - but without compromising your ethos. To give you an idea of cost, an 1/8-page, like those at the bottom of this page, costs from just £41.85 a month, paying by direct debit. Call us now on 01392 346342.
Feel benefit of song with teacher Selena A BEAUTIFUL singing voice can be a delight for the listener, but for the singer too it can be an uplifting and enjoyable experience. So it’s not surprising singing workshops are becoming so popular. Selena Merrett, who has nearly two decades of experience both as a musician and singer, has developed Voiceplay! - a fortnightly workshop, using games, exercises and other techniques to create a session in which participants improvise with their voices together as a group aiming to deepen their creativity and singing skills. Selena also runs another very different workshop called SING with adults & BRING your kids. Said Selena: “I welcome both confident singers and people with little or no experience and I teach beautiful, meaningful, songs by ear in an accessible, joyful way.” The workshop is designed for parents with children of any age to get together in a child-friendly space and sing together in harmony with others. Said Selena: “It’s a nourishing and relaxing group to attend and comes with toys and free tea.” The improvising workshop is held in Birdwood House, Totnes on alternate Wednesdays from 7.30-9pm. The parents’ workshop takes place in Dartington on Thursdays from 10 to 11.30am restarting on March 8. www.medleymusic.co.uk. selenalea@ yahoo.co.uk 01803 732546.
Trainees offer reduced rates
Norwegian Wood SUSTAINABLE ORGANIC BED & BREAKFAST WITH EN-SUITE WELLBEING. GLORIOUS VIEWS & GARDENS. • Iridology and Nutritional Naturopathy
One hour: £25 Two hours: £30. • Five-hour workshops/lectures: £50. • Lose excess fat permanently without starving. • Irritable bowel syndrome banished for ever. • Feel wonderful not depressed. Powerpoint slide presentation, pairs work, individual learning plan. Ongoing quiz assessment. Autonomous research. Heather Nicholson Start a healthier lifestyle Norwegian Wood, Hollicombe Lane, Preston, Paignton TQ3 2DT with the perfect break www.organicbedandbreakfast.info 01803 528575
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chance for those people who might wish to try homoeopathy but who are unable to afford it, to visit the clinic and be seen in a professional environment by either a qualified tutor or a fourth year student working under supervision. Ali Morrish, the Clinical Director of the school, said: “In times of recession this is an invaluable learning opportunity for students as they embark on their training.” To book an appointment or to find out about training call Ali on 01392 422555.
THE students are not the only ones who benefit from the work of the British School of Homoeopathy. Because the school believes in a hands-on approach to their training, members of the public also benefit from more affordable treatment. The centre, based just off Queen Street in Exeter, offers a unique training which exposes students to clinical work with patients from day one. This augments their academic learning and in turn offers the
Treating babies for the trauma of birth HOWEVER wonderful childbirth might seem, the process is a traumatic experience for the baby. Whether born naturally or by caesarean section, most babies retain some stress, mechanical strains or trauma from their birth process. For 25 years Exeter therapist Peter Zealley has been treating new-born babies to improve sleep patterns and calm problems such as colic. Said Peter: “In most cases these tension patterns do not simply disappear. Unless the baby is treated effectively, he/she will just adapt to them, often causing symptoms and affecting their behaviour.” Peter uses craniosacral therapy as a gentle yet powerful treatment which works by releasing the physical strains, compressions, stress and trauma effects retained in the baby’s body and nervous system. Peter also works with children to support parents who may be feeling frustrated and unsupported looking after children with a variety of conditions. Said Peter: “Parenting is a tough job at the best of times. Children constantly present us with new challenges and childhood can be fraught with physical, emotional and psychological stresses, traumas and illnesses, for which there is often no satisfactory answer provided by mainstream healthcare.” Peter practises in Exeter, Topsham and Exmouth. Visit www.peterzealley.com, or call 0800 970 6153.
PERSEPHONE INSTITUTE INTERNATIONAL of Psychophonetics “All human challenges are opportunItIes for ! personal development”
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Psychophonetics is a new form of holistic counselling, coaching and psychotherapy. It is a unique method of enhancing self-awareness and renewing the whole human being - body, life energy, soul & spirit. Professional Training Course starting 17th of April in Stroud Special Event - Feb 2012☼ Humanising the Workplace Seminar at the Findhorn Foundation (Scotland)
Contact: uk@psychophonetics.com tel: 079201 00794 www.psychophonetics.co.uk
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local people local events local food local health local environment A holiday from the endless noise of life IT’S true - silence is golden. If you are in the rat race of life you’re probably longing for the tranquility of a sun-drenched retreat with its emphasis on peace and calm. Kiki Kellali owns and runs various retreats throughout the year at The Land of Light Retreat Centre, which is nestled in the beautiful Alpujarras, the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Southern Spain. One of the upcoming retreats on offer is aimed at enjoying the elusive quality of silence. Said Kiki: ‘’This week long retreat is for you if you long to get away from it all, drop out of the usual
humdrum and be in a space where silence can bring you into a different state of consciousness, to a way of being and communication with yourself and another.” The retreat will be a community sharing experience where all chores are shared as a group with the opportunity at mealtimes to either connect in silence or to join in convivial conversation and share freshly sourced locally produced food. Other retreats on offer include shamanic dance, writers’, artists’, creativity and walking. Go to www.landoflightspain.com for more information.
brilliance a rare
Ever wondered if there’s an environmental print company out there who can deliver a consistent quality of print, with a refreshing brand of enthusiasm and professionalism? A company that offers a wide range of services and understands the needs of your business?... Wills Road,Totnes Industrial Estate,Totnes, DevonTQ9 5XN T 01803 867087 E sales@kingfisherprint.co.uk W www.kingfisherprint.co.uk
Kingfisher Print & Design Ltd
New yoga festival marks Devon boom DEVON appears to be a boom county when it comes to yoga. In the last two years, new studios have opened in Exeter and Plymouth and teachers say they can’t keep up with the number of classes they are asked to teach. Following on from that demand, a new Yoga Festival is planned for Devon this Summer run by local teachers. The Devon Yoga Festival takes place at Seale Hayne in Newton Abbot, August 10-12, which will bring together some of the top yoga teachers from Devon and the South West in celebration of the area’s thriving yoga scene. The not-for-profit event will raise money for the Dame Hannah Rogers Trust and the Ganga Prem Hospice in India.
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One of the festival organisers, James Russell, who runs www. exeterlovesyoga.co.uk, a collective of like-minded teachers in Exeter, said: “The Devon School of Yoga is producing a dozen or so teachers every year, and there is also British Wheel and Yoga Alliance training going on in Devon. I like to think we’re the most thriving yoga county in the country. And we are certainly an ideal location for a festival.” The festival will feature a choice of 40 workshops in styles ranging from ashtanga to kundalini, anusara to restorative. The event will be fully catered by Exeter company Fresh Organic. Visit www.devonyogafestival.co.uk.
O
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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local people local events local food local health local environment
Homeopathy as a part of life MANY people discover the effectiveness of holistic health therapies after more ‘conventional’ methods have failed to get to the root cause of a problem. Jacki Becker, a Totnes-based homeopath believes homeopathic medicine “should be a potent part of everyday life.” “My nephew is nearly six and hasn’t had any conventional medicine in his whole life,” says Jacki. “And my mother is 84 and relies on her homeopathy kit and not at all on drugs. “If you want someone who really listens, who has more than 3000 homeopathically prepared substances for your individual symptoms and experiences, plus a wealth of knowledge about conventional and complementary approaches to
many common complaints and who will willingly cooperate with your GP, try a professional and insured homeopath!” Jacki has been working to spread the message through The Homeopathy Action Trust (of which she is chair) for 20 years. She says: “I am currently looking at running courses for the elderly and carers and mothers of young children. “I qualified in 1991, have been teaching for 15 years and believe passionately that homeopathic medicine should be a potent part of everyday life.” To find out more about homeopathy and what Jacki can do for you, call 01803 840 614, or email jacki. becker@virgin.net.
Cancer clinic offers support to conventional treatment
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ONCE the dreaded diagnosis of cancer is confirmed, most patients face a gruelling course of radiotherapy, chemotherapy or surgery. But a team at the Arcturus Clinic in Totnes believe there are real complementary approaches to cancer health care that can substantially augment conventional treatment. The Arcturus Clinic, in Fore Street, Totnes, has opened a Cancer Health Centre in response to what they call the “alarming increase in cancer rates globally and the startling lack of constructive cancer health care information in the public domain.” The clinic is organising a Cancer Health Care Conference in Totnes Civic Hall on Saturday, March 24, 10am-9pm. Dr Stephen Hopwood, who runs the clinic and has 20 year’s experience as a medical doctor, holistic physician and Chinese medical practitioner, believes cancer is ultimately caused by a weakened and dysfunctional immune system where the body’s natural capacity to self-regulate and self-heal has failed. He said: “The solution lies, we believe,
Kate Harris Life Coaching & Self Esteem Specialist Using cognitive behavioural therapy and life coaching to help you release your inner confidence ‘Kate’s compassion and empathy, and her ability to share and support, made a huge difference to my progress and my continued success’ Paula, Devon By phone (including Skype) or in person in a relaxed farmhouse setting near Totnes
or chat to Kate for more information tel: 01275 877083 www.conhom.com 28
in the cultivation of our health and the strengthening of our immune system. “There is little information offered about the causes of the disease or constructive advice on prevention. “More knowledge is needed about how to develop our healing capacity and create a healthy immune system, which we believe is the foundation for approaching and preventing the disease.” With Dr Hopwood at the centre is Barbara Wren, who has over 30 years’ experience as a consultant therapist and director of a national school of nutrition. With them is world-renowned psychic healer Matthew Manning, author of books on the healing arts. A number of speakers are taking part in the conference including Italian Oncologist Dr Tullio Simoncini, author of the book “Cancer is a fungus”. Cancer survivor John Hagger will talk about his use of The Gerson Therapy and will share his experiences and insights. Tickets are £5 per lecture on the door or £25 for the day. Call the Totnes Cancer Health Centre on 01803 868282.
Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk
t: 01803 847674 m: 0777 949 6240 www.kateharris-lifecoaching.co.uk
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Dartmoor Centre
Counselling & Psychotherapy In Newton Abbot We Care Advanced Diploma in Counselling First Certificate Counselling Dip Supervision, Dip ChildrenYoung People
HEARTWOOD director Leigh Smith, above right, with a student; and, below, two students, working on a Heartwood course
A career with real heart FINDING a vocation that really means something; doing a job that genuinely helps people and can also earn a good rate of pay… all things most of us aspire to in our working lives. According to Leigh Smith, director of the Heartwood Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy, a career in counselling can tick all the boxes. “Of course, I may be biased, but I think working as a counsellor, or even just using counselling skills in your work, is incredibly rewarding on a very deep and personal level,” said Leigh. “Bringing healing and support to those who most need it, earning a living with integrity and compassion, and knowing you have really made a positive difference to people’s lives – these are things you don’t get in every vocation, but you do with counselling and psychotherapy.” Perhaps this need for ‘job satisfaction’ is contributing to the growing demand for training in counselling skills at Heartwood. ”We have recently had to add in an evening class and an extra level twoday course to cope with demand for our courses”, says Leigh. “And we are
also now running a Level 4 diploma in Therapeutic Counselling course as an evening class, starting on Tuesday, February 28. “So we are now running a full range of courses starting with a one day introduction course, through each level of qualification right up to Psychotherapy and Supervision Diplomas.” Heartwood also caters for existing counsellors, with professional development workshops and diplomas that allow counsellors to specialise in particular areas of therapy. Heartwood are also offering Taster Days where you can experience Heartwood’s unique approach to teaching and discover why the courses are so successful. Bookings are now being taken for September 2012 courses, and Leigh tells us: “Our diplomas are always fully booked so it’s a good idea to register your interest as soon as possible or to book onto one of our early taster days.” For more details about courses, visit www.heartwoodcounselling.org or call 01803 865464.
For details of all courses : Sandplay, CPD, Please visit www.safespaceforcounselling.com or speak to Ken Rabone Director of Training Training only 01803 867744 Email : office@safespaceforcounselling.com
Affordable Counselling -We Care
We are a specialist Community Interest Company No 6846069 - not for profit - for affordable personal counselling in N’Abbot phone 01626 331831
Acclaimed ‘Creative Diploma in CBT’ begins April 2012 invest in skills that work for you and your clients - 10 days - practical, rewarding and career enhancing - compassion focussed.
THERAPY Ecopsychology
TRAINING WORKSHOPS FROM SPRING 2012 “Ecopsychology is the exploration of our psyche’s interconnection with the natural world. I believe by living in harmony with the natural world and in realising our non-seperateness from it, we can find our belonging and our place. This will in turn improve our mental health and begin to reverse the impact of our chronic dissociation as a species of the earth and our connection with all beings.” Quote - Debbie Wander Please contact Debbie Wander for details. DEBBIE WANDER MA UKCP Psychotherapist • Supervisor • MA Trainer Shamanic Practitioner and Teacher
Call 01803 555155
email debbiewander@hotmail.com
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Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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Sustainable fitness plan Aching joints and muscles? Painful knees? Shoulders stuck? Mary Caffrey Bsc(Hons) NAMMT Rm Hendrickson Method Practitioner
Specialising in remedial and orthopaedic massage to mobilise your body and bring relief from pain.
Ask how I can help you… Call me on 07877 863745 for an appointment
Changing your life is just a pinprick away... See how amazing live pictures of your blood can reveal your inner state of health: - instant answers to your health issues - increase energy levels - reach peak performance - lose weight - understand your cellular imbalances.
Consultations in Exeter and Plymouth. Beverley Bird SAC dip Clinical nutrition. Live and dried blood microscopy, nutrition therapy and raw food educator. Tel: 01566 880090 www.liveblooduk.co.uk www.botanicaldetox.co.uk See website for dates and locations of Raw Food for Health Workshops 2012
IN the positive days after Christmas, everyone resolves to be fitter and healthier. But by the end of January, things have often gone a bit pear-shaped. Miserable winter days can make it difficult to keep up a fitness routine or healthy eating programme when all you want to do is hibernate. Even if you started this year in an enthusiastic flurry of activity, you may now be using the resulting aches, pains and injuries as a reason, or excuse, for going back to the sofa. Eco-friendly clinic Hands-on Health in Victoria Road, Exmouth, has a more sustainable approach that could keep you on the right track long after others have fallen by the wayside, and help you to a healthier and happier way of life. Starting off with accupuncture, chiropractic, nutritional advice and a range of massage therapies, the team will help you get your body ready for safe and enjoyable exercise before letting you loose on your chosen activity – which may include yoga, pilates and tai chi classes, or personal training sessions involving the amazingly effective TRX method. They’ll be with you every step of the way, they say. “Ensuring your joints and muscles
are in good condition before starting a new exercise regime can help you avoid injury and boost performance,” says partner Albie McMahon. The team’s nutritional therapist Lesley Harper adds: “Small but effective dietary changes can help you feel healthier, more energised, and have more vitality - all helping to make your exercise practice easier to maintain.” The last word goes to Phil Yolland of Urban Earth, a regular Handson Health client: “As a landscape gardener, I have to stay injuryfree in order to keep working. Massage, reflexology and ashtanga yoga at the clinic have been very good for me, so this Spring I’m recommending my staff see the team there too.” Visit www.hands-onhealth.co.uk, call 01395 224207 or 07889 489796, or email manya@hands-onhealth.co.uk.
EXMOUTH clinic Hands-on Health offers preparation and support for your fitness regime
Hélène Demetriades
Counselling & Psychotherapy I help you to move through patterns of self-rejection to come home to yourself.
“Hélène works with infinite compassion and patience, listening on levels which I could never begin to imagine myself. She becomes the most magical mirror in which I can see myself more clearly” Metamorphic Technique A simple practice in which I use a light touch on the sides of your feet, hands and head, acting as a catalyst to your life-force.
“The philosophy of the Metamorphic Technique of bringing about one’s potential in life has manifested itself in mine in a profound way within the last year.” Location: Dartington www.helenedemetriades.co.uk Tel: 01803 868 655
30 30 30
www.macroschool.co.uk
Experienced Transpersonal Psychotherapist & Counsellor MBACP SNR Accred. Metamorphic Technique Practitioner
Advertising: Advertising: 01392 01392346342 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk
international
MACROBIOTIC
Totnes Devon
school
Introduction to Macrobiotics Day 24th Feb 2nd May
Learn how to create delicious and healthy food in one day!
Price: £75
Looking After Your Health 4 day intensive 29th May to 1st June
Price: £350 inc. lunch & supper
Learn a new understanding of how to look after your total health and well-being.
Tel. 01803 762598 info@macroschool.co.uk
local people local events local food local health local environment
The raw power of nutrition Cacao Nibs
~Energise~ Maca Powder
~Rebalance ~
Goji Berries WALKS on Dartmoor to revitalise cancer carers
Verran leads walks for carers CANCER carers are being offered the chance to enjoy a revitalising walk on Dartmoor with a qualified mountain leader. The walks are led by Verran Townsend, who has been supporting his partner since her cancer diagnosis in 2008. Said Verran: “I’ve found that spending time walking in nature has been of enormous benefit on this extraordinary journey. “These walks are an opportunity for those impacted by a cancer diagnosis to take some time out for themselves, to spend time with others in a similar situation, and to experience how spending time in nature can be of great benefit to them too. “They are exclusively for people who are caring for, supporting, or are impacted by someone close to them having been diagnosed with cancer. “All they need do is bring a smile, their walking boots, waterproofs, warm clothing and their favourite food and drink.” All the walks are on Dartmoor and last 3-4 hours over mixed and hilly terrain. The next walks
~Purify~ Spirulina Powder
~Revitalise ~ Wheatgrass Powder
~Cleanse ~ For more info or to order :
07743 066450
www.awealthofhealth.co.uk
Zero-Point Breathing QUALIFIED mountain leader Verran Townsend
For Infinate Inspiration!
are February 12, March 18 and April 15 and are free of charge, but donations are welcome and all proceeds will be split between the Totnes Cancer Help Centre (Community Interest Company) and the Penny Brohn Cancer Care charity (registered charity no. 284881). To book your place or to find out more, call Verran on 07803 077304, or email verran@ outsideinsights.co.uk.
Hosts Wanted Earn £40 per evening
Zero-point breathing is how we can easily and consistently access our heart’s intelligence. The benefits to this are profound for health and spiritual development. If you would like to have a fun evening sharing this information with your friends and earn a generous commission call Robin on
01752 895 381 or visit the website:
www.zero-point breathing.co.uk
www.reconnectonline.co.uk
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local people local events local food local health local environment
Technique ‘changes lives’
THE TOTNES CANCER HEALTH CARE CONFERENCE An international event dedicated to exploring a deeper understanding of alternative Cancer Health Care. • Dr. Tullioi Simmoncini • Dr. Robert Verkerk • Matthew Manning • Barbara Wren • Dr.Stephen Hopwood and more...
TOTNES CIVIC HALL
WWW.TOTNESCANCERHEALTHCENTRE.ORG
&
RIQTA
RIQTA
FOR PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING TRAINING COURSES regular workshops – TORQUAY. Also Retreats abroad and Pilgrimages to the Holy Land. (open to all)
g skills & Concepts – part time –
&
Level 2 – introduction to counselling skills & Concepts – part time – FOR PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITED COUNSELLING TRAINING 10 weeks – commencing May 2011 COURSES & REGULAR WORKSHOPS IN TORBAY Skills – part time – 10 months – Level 3 – Certificate in Counselling Skills – part time – 10 months –
RIQTA
commencing July 2011
FOR PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING TRAINING COURSES & 2 – Introduction skillsabroad & concepts regular workshops to –counselling TORQUAY. Also Retreats and Certificate in CBT – 10 months part time. – commencing May 2011 Pilgrimages to the Holy Land. (open toJANUARY all) part-time 10 weeks commencing 2012 practice of Counselling – part
t time. – commencing MayLevel 2011
Level2 4– Diploma in The theory andskills practice of Counselling – part Level introduction to counselling & Concepts – part time –
e 2011
months – commencing June 2011 – commencing Level10time 3weeks –21Certifi cateMay in2011 Counselling Skills Children & Young people – 12 Children &time Young – –12 Specialist Diploma in Counselling eptember 2011 Level 3 – Certificate in Counselling Skills – part – 10people months part-time - 10 months - commencing FEBRUARY 2012
ourses, or any of our workshops,
iqta.co.uk – 01803 315075
hands-on therapies because the practitioner is not actually trying to effect any kind of change. “I am merely a catalyst,” she says. “It is the recipient’s own life force that determines the nature and degree of transformation. You will only experience as much as you are ready to cope with.” A Metamorphic Technique session lasts an hour and the recipient remains fully clothed, except for the feet. It is experienced as the lightest of touch on the feet, hands and head and the practitioner does not seek to address specific symptoms or problems, but is “guided by the flow of the session”. Hélène practices from her home in Dartington and at Neal’s Yard in Totnes. She also runs training workshops on the Metamorphic Technique, and is an experienced accredited counsellor and psychotherapist. Call 01803 868655 or visitwww. helenedemetriades.co.uk
Care for yourself - and your dog
Saturday 24th March 2012 10am - 9pm. £5 per lecture or £25 for the day. Call 01803 868282 to book your tickets
TRAINING COURSES Y. Also Retreats abroad and (open to all)
METAMORPHASIS is defined as “a change of the form or nature of a thing or person into a completely different one”. And the Metamorphic Technique changes lives, says HélèneDemetriades, by helping people to “overcome their limiting beliefs and transform ingrained patterns of thought and behaviour” so they can achieve their full potential. “All emotional, behavioural and physical problems are regarded simply as an expression of energy,” says Hélène. “By a process of light touch, the Metamorphic Technique provides the environment in which transformation can happen.” Hélène trained as a practitioner after receiving a session of The Metamorphic Technique herself. “I experienced something subtle but profound,” she says. “It made me want to share this with others.” Hélène says the Metamorphic Technique is different to other
WE all know how our dogs pick up on how we’re feeling – if you’ve been through a period of negative emotion, your dog will almost certainly be feeling, and showing, the effects. So Rachel Bolton, an intuitive healer who works with people and animals, says that if you’re seeing that lack of wellbeing reflected in your pet, it’s time to take action – for both your sakes. Says Rachel: “Feelings and sensations of guilt, fear, anger and anxiety are all read and felt by your animals, so if you want to gift your dog with a feeling of balance and calmness for the new year, you need to take the necessary steps to achieve a state of wellbeing - and then see your dog smile at you with gratitude! “Maybe you are caught up in the past or anxious about the future. Just be grateful that he or she reflected your feelings back to
months partJuly time. – commencing September 2011 commencing 2011
For on these or any of our workshops, DiplomaCertificate in further Cognitive (CBT) in information CBT – 10Behaviour months partcourses, time.Therapy – commencing May 2011 contact: part-time - commencing 2012 Level 4 Diploma in The theory andMARCH practice of Counselling – part Info.riqta@btconnect.com – www.riqta.co.uk – 01803 315075 time 21 months – commencing June 2011
r 2011 and February 2012 safe pilgrimage to the HOLY Holy Pilgrimage –and October 2011 and February 2012 Level 4 Diploma inLand The Theory Practice ofpeople Counselling Children & Young – 12 Specialist Diploma in Counselling nal and/or professional NEW! We can now offer a 10 day safe pilgrimage to the HOLY months part time. – commencing September 2011 ligious beliefs, and for those who part-time - 21–months - commencing APRIL 2012 LAND this can be for your personal and/or professional group, sightseeing and learning development, for thoseon who have religious beliefs, and for those who For further information these courses, or any of our workshops, e - with a full itinery and tour wish to tour Israel as part of a safe group, sightseeing and learning contact: Specialist Diploma in Counselling Children & Young People e – for further details contact history with wonderful architecture - with –a 01803 full itinery and tour Info.riqta@btconnect.com – www.riqta.co.uk 315075 nnect.com – Itmonths is an all inclusive package – for further details contact part-timeguide - 12 - commencing APRIL 2012 01803 315075 or info.riqta@btconnect.com Holy Land Pilgrimage – October 2011 and February 2012
you in the first place – we don’t always realise how we are holding ourselves, but our dogs will never miss it. “Just breathe and trust all is well, address your needs and then calm and assertive energy will ooze from you to your faithful friend - and you will have a better relationship in which to experience 2012.” Visit www.touchnthespirit.co.uk or call Rachel on 01364 653 788 or 07957 597 618.
THERAPISTS WANTED
TO JOIN NEWLY OPENED HEALTH AND WELLNESS CLINIC IN NEWTON ABBOT. • Excellent location • Newly renovated • Large treatment rooms • Rooms to let on hourly, half-daily, or weekly basis. Looking for enthusiastic therapists wanting to build and establish their practice base. Get in touch to find out more!
NEW! We can now offer a 10 day safe pilgrimage to the HOLY For further information on our accredited and approved courses, LAND – this can be for your personal and/or professional development, for those who have religious beliefs, and for those contact: who or any of our workshops or support groups, please wish to tour Israel as part of a safe group, sightseeing and learning history with wonderful architecture with a full itinery and tour Info.riqta@btconnect.com guide – It is an all inclusive package – for further details contact 01803 315075 or info.riqta@btconnect.com www.riqta.co.uk – 01803 315075
RIQTA – HEALTH & HARMONY LOW COST COUNSELLING AGENCY If you would like to engage in counselling, but find finance difficult, we have counsellors who offer reduced/low fees. Please telephone for details.
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39 Devon Square, Newton Abbot, TQ12 2HH • Tel: 01803 814 329 align.limited@gmail.com • www.alignyourhealth.co.uk
Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk
We look forward to seeing you at ALIGN! www.reconnectonline.co.uk
local people local events local food local health local environment ‘A thoughtful approach to emotional issues’ communication is key
Professional and experienced counsellor qualified to help with: ● Relationships ● Anxiety/Panic Attacks ● Stress and Anger Management ● Self-esteem Issues ● Loss and Bereavement
Rosemary Pell’s Counselling Practice MBACP (Member of British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy)
01647 253264
www.rosemarypell.co.uk 1 Walnut Gardens, St David’s Hill, Exeter EX4 4DH
KUNG Fu teacher Matt Bindon with Shaolin monks in China
Matt loved China training A TRIP to China exploring the mountains of Henan province will sound very appealing to many of us. But while Kung Fu teacher Matt Bindon certainly enjoyed his recent trip there to train with the Shaolin monks, it wasn’t your typical holiday break. Said Matt: “I had a 5.15am start every day and anyone who was late or who overslept had to do 200 push-ups! “We began with a four-mile run up the mountain (avoiding the snakes!) and then had four two-and-a-half hour training sessions a day, often in 40 degree heat, ending at 9.15pm with strict lights out.” The accommodation wasn’t too luxurious either. “Living conditions were very basic with water from the mountains to wash in (if you were lucky) and three meals a day consisting mainly of rice
and noodles, and sometimes hot rice water to drink. “Hunger was hard to deal with when training so intensely, but you soon adapt.” Matt trained with the highly skilled young monks and at the end of his visit had to demonstrate the new skills he had learnt in front of the head monks, teachers and other students. “I was then awarded a signed certificate before leaving,” said Matt. “It was an amazing experience and a true honour to be able to train with them.” Matt, 42, has been training in Kung Fu in the UK since he was 14, and now teaches with the UK Shaolin Temple in Totnes. He is visiting China again in August. For more information on classes in Totnes contact Matt on www. ukshaolintemple.
Space available at therapy rooms IF you’re a therapist and looking for practice space in the Bovey Tracey area, podiatrist Elizabeth Williams could have the answer. Elizabeth runs the Well Healed Chiropody and Therapy Rooms in the heart of Bovey and has space for new therapists. The Old Bakery premises are well
furnished with new hydraulic plinth couches. Wifi is included and there is a part-time reception and booking service. On evenings and at weekends the whole building is available to hire including three therapy rooms and one large teaching room. For information call 01626 830743. www.well-healed.co.uk.
AtlasPROfilax® NEW AMAZING SELF-EMPOWERING REALIGNMENT Did you know that the Atlas bone is misaligned in most humans? What if you could get rid of
BACK, NECK, KNEES or HIPS PAIN, WHIPLASH, MIGRAINES, DIZINESS, TRAPPED NERVES, DIFFERENCE in LEG LENGTH, FROZEN SHOULDERS, etc… A strategic and non-chiropractic massage is applied to the short musculature of the neck in only one application, safely and permanently Marie-Agnès Casalini
07828 954 304 (01342) 303279 marie.atlas@yahoo.co.uk For more testimonials, see: www.marieatlas.co.uk Regularly in Totnes at Arcturus Clinic
www.reconnectonline.co.uk
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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local people local events local food local health local environment VOICEPLAY! SINGING LESSONS To nurture your natural voice. Appointments by arrangement.
Improvisational singing in a guided co-creative circle Alternate Wednesday evenings, Totnes
SING with Adults & BRING your Kids! Gather to sing with other parents while your child plays, joins in or soaks up the atmosphere. With tea and toys. No experience necessary. Thursday mornings, Dartington
selenalea@yahoo.co.uk 01803-732546 www.medleymusic.co.uk
FEELING YOUR BEST AT THE DESK and improve your posture at the computer
I provide a highly effective Alexander Techniquebased approach for preventing back & neck pain and RSI combined with expert advice on setting up your workstation to suit your individual needs. For home or business contact: MIcHAEL BROwN on 01364 654398 or 07775 528876 or email info@michaelhbrown.co.uk www.feelingyourbestatthedesk.co.uk
Waterloo Wellbeing Centre, Plymouth ‘When we have inner peace we can be at peace with those around us’ Dalai Lama
Professional Counselling and Psychotherapy for health and wellbeing Services available:
• INDIVIDUAL AND COUPLES COUNSELLING
THE new Gaia House website includes, as you would expect, detailed information about the many meditation retreats they host. But even if you’re not planning to visit the centre, it’s worth checking out the website to download one of the many talks they have available. These are dharma talks made by some of the world’s top teachers and recorded at Gaia House. Until now they have been held on tape (we’ve seen the library – very impressive) but they are gradually being transferred to digital files now available for download from the website. There are more than 1,000 already available with literally thousands more in the pipeline – this is a rare and valuable resource that anyone can now tap into. The downloads are free but Gaia House suggests a donation of £2.
Top teachers’ talks online The website also includes a list of recommended books, available through Gaia House on Amazon. And if you are planning to attend a Gaia House retreat, or just want to know more about how things work in the world’s most famous silent meditation retreat centre, a visit to the website is a must. Visit www.gaiahouse.co.uk.
Learn and test new breathing technique at evening parties THE link between your heart rate, your breathing and your state of mind is very close. According to practitioner Rob Hemmings, negative changes in thoughts and breathing methods can affect your heart’s rhythm and result in a lack of heart coherence (HC). And he believes that by a process known as Zero-Point Breathing (ZPB), you can correct this and achieve “heart coherence”. He said: “The new science is now clearly showing us our hearts are our most powerful key to health and wellbeing because they are by far the strongest generators of electromagnetic energy in our bodies. “The pulse sent out by this central organ, that is the first to develop in a foetus, bathes each and every cell in our bodies with a wave of energy. “By making our hearts coherent, this wave becomes a powerful and steady signal telling the rest of the body that all is well. This in turn helps bring all of our other
bodily systems into coherence too.” Using a non-invasive device Rob says he can check your Heart Coherence levels by measuring your heart rate variable (HRV) - the time between each beat - and tell a lot about your physical and mental health. He has now developed a ‘party hosting’ opportunity for anyone interested in learning this for themselves and sharing this valuable information with their friends. By gathering in small groups of less than 10 (ok for most front rooms) it would take about two hours to demonstrate how effective the ZPB method is to reach heart coherence. During an evening, guests will first have a reading of their HRV to check HC; then learn the simple but effective ZPB method of inhalation; and then lastly have another reading taken of their HRV while practising their newlylearned breathing technique. Visit www.zero-pointbreathing.co.uk or call 01752 895381
• PSYCHOTHERAPY
Abundant Life
• COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY • FAMILY THERAPY • MINDFULNESS COURSES • PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING TRAINING ACCREDITED BY CPCAB
STARTING MARCH 2012 Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) courses for depression & stress; chronic illness & pain.
Tel: 01752 560002 www.psychotherapyplymouth.co.uk 191 Devonport Road, Stoke, Plymouth PL1 5RN
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Relax - De-stress - Unwind
Qigong
every Thursday morning at 11.00 a.m. in Space on the beautiful Dartington Hall Estate £6 per person To book your place or for more information about the Abundant Life project please call 01803 847049 or visit www.dartington.org/abundant-life
Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk
www.reconnectonline.co.uk
local people local events local food local health local environment Hobbies could be key to career change HOBBIES and pastimes aren’t just a good practical way to exercise our creative side – doing something you love can also be vital if we are trying to make important changes in our lives. Lifecoach Jeff Sleeman, who specialises in career transformation and facilitates the Happy Mondays career change workshops, encourages his clients to develop their leisure interests when they are trying to find new ways of earning a living. Jeff says: “If you are unemployed or in a job you really don’t like and can’t decide what it is you want to do with your life, sitting around endlessly thinking about it and getting depressed really won’t give you the answers. “Doing something which you enjoy will raise your energy levels, focus your
mind and put you in a much better position to start to make changes. In the words of Howard Thurman, the American writer and philosopher: ‘Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive and go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.’” So if you have a hankering to try painting, ballroom dancing, creative writing or acting, why not give it a go? At the very least you will meet different people and have new experiences - and it might just give you the inspiration you need to make that all important life change. Jeff’s next Happy Mondays seminar begins on February 18 – visit www. happymondays.org.uk
Stonehenge’s harmonious role THE story behind the gigantic task of creating Stonehenge is fascinating. What led our ancestors to craft and carry stones weighing many tons from the remote uplands of Pembrokeshire in Wales to form the heart of an ancient place of pilgrimage miles away? Devon authors Sue and Simon Lilly (right) have now published a book called Preseli Bluestone: Healing Stone of the Ancestors, which examines why the stones from Mynydd Preseli captured the imagination of our ancestors. Said Sue: “Our experience of working with the healing and spiritual properties of Preseli bluestone suggests it was these qualities that made the stone so special. Not only in a wide range of healing situations, but it can also open our awareness to other levels of reality and broaden our understanding of time and space. “Visionaries and alternative researchers have often seen the sacred sites of the past as part of an integrated system of energy pathways that encompass the planet. This new research suggests
Trevor Gardner Mickel Therapist Tel: 07932 175280 e-mail: trevor.gardner@mickeltherapy.com Website: www.mickeltherapy.com Successfully treating: M.E., Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, Post Viral Fatigue, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
2012
Passionate Presence events with
Katheryn Trenshaw “Come unwrap your magnificent life and purpose.” Are you ready for real freedom? Dare you step into your deep connected power and really be here now? Are you ready to open your heart and love? There is nothing to change. Come live in your own wild and precious skin. Upcoming: Sunday evenings at Edenrise nr Totnes, Feb 5, March 4, April 1 & 22 • And many more. See website •
01803 863552 • info@ktrenshaw.com www.ktrenshaw.com that Preseli bluestone has an important role to play in understanding the subtle structures of the Earth and bringing balance and harmony.” Simon and Sue have been involved in many aspects of healing for over 30 years. They are senior tutors at The Institute of Crystal and Gem Therapists (ICGT), which emphasises the teaching of practical and effective techniques for crystal healing. Their book is a collection of more than 25 techniques designed to help you to explore the potential of Preseli bluestone, both working by yourself and within groups. Copies cost £9.95 from www. greenmanshop.co.uk or from Amazon.
Practising in Totnes and Teignmouth 01803 862803 | 07506 179 808 | mark.edlundplater@gmail.com
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 2012 Jacki Becker RSHom Totnes Clinic of Homeopathy t: 01803 867747 m: 07792 059 867
www.reconnectonline.co.uk
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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local people local events local food local health local environment
PETER ZEALLEY
Yoga centre in top lists
ND DO
CRANIOSACRALTHERAPIST
25 years experience working with adults, children & babies.
A gentle hands-on therapy inviting tissue presence to encourage the expression of health, function, vitality & wholeness. The ideal treatment for the release of stress, trauma, pain & stiffness.
Exeter u Topsham u Exmouth
www.peterzealley.com
e-mail: peter@zealley.com
freephone: 0800 970 6153 or text: 07979 721 227
HEALING ISSUES, BUILDING HAPPINESS
A “Mind-Body-Soul” Workshop
Sat 25th Feb - TOTNES - Sharpham House Sat 10th Mar - EXETER - at Central Library
DISCOVER THE SECRET TO HEALTHFUL RELATIONSHIPS LEARN KEYS TO HAPPINESS AND TO SHIFT UNHAPPINESS MEDITATE INTO THE HEALING ENERGIES OF THE SOUL/ANGELS Time 10am – 1pm Cost: £22- For more info go to: info@stresslesslifeskills.com / www.stresslesslifeskills.com
Intuitive Born Healer
Rachel Bolton
SPEAKER Christian Kyriacou
Christian at conference CHRISTIAN Kyriacou is an architect with a difference. Having run his own architectural practice for over 40 years, he has designed major public projects such as airport interiors, restaurants and homes, But his specialism is in what he calls the Harmonics of Spatial Energy. As one of the speakers at the Fountain International Conference in Torquay in April, Christian will give an insight into his work, which includes shamanism, philosophy, architectural and environmental psychology, interior design and geomancy. The conference is on April 21 and 22 at St Anne’s Hall, Babbacombe, Torquay. Other speakers include Paul Broadhurst, David Wells, Colin Kingshott, Jan Harper Whale, Catherine Wilson and Torquay’s Suzanne Thomas. Call 01803 316146 evenings and weekends or visit www. fountaininternationalmagazine.com.
A new type of community for over 55s BASED on the Elmhirsts’ philosophy that ‘an abundant life is a happy life’, Dartington is working with its local community to create a new provision for older age. Nearly 25% of the UK population is now over the age of 65 and this emerging demographic challenges us to think differently about older people and society. The Dartington Hall Trust plans to develop, on the old school site at Foxhole, a new residential community for people over the age of 55, where residents, whatever their income and needs, will play an important part in the wider community and keep active, busy and full of purpose.
MPCHM MAcS ITEC
Intuitive healing for people and animals.
Working with all physical, emotional and spiritual concerns. Tel: 01364 653 788 Mob: 07957 597 618 e mail: rachel.bolton@touchthespirit.co.uk www.touchthespirit.co.uk
Please see my website for testimonials 36
A TOTNES yoga centre has made it into a national newspaper’s top 10 – for the second time. Established in 1999, The Forge Yoga Centre had already been voted one of the 10 best yoga centres in the UK by the Independent, and has now been featured as offering one of the 10 best yoga retreat programmes worldwide for 2012 by The Guardian. Newcomers to the centre can take advantage of their 10-10-10 card, which allows you to take up to 10 classes for 10 days for just £10 so you can try out the centre’s different classes and teachers. Find out more at www.forgeyoga. co.uk, call 01803 867 440, or drop in (take the road at the side of Greenfibres) and pick up a schedule.
Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk
Said liason officer Michelle Meredith: “Residents will receive first class support for life if and when they need it and will be encouraged to fully engage with activities in and beyond the project. The scheme will also contribute to the vitality of the local community. “The buildings needed to support our vision of a strong, engaged community will take some time to realise, but meanwhile, we are keen to capture the spirit of the project and already run a series of lectures and activities through the project like Tai Chi Qigong classes and our community garden at Foxhole.” Call 01803 847049, or email abundantlife@dartington.org.
THERAPY ROOMS TO RENT IN BUDLEIGH SALTERTON
JOTTY’S
Rent space in our luxury health SPA in the beautiful coastal town of Budleigh Salterton ● Rent space for half-day or full days ● Be part of a team of professional therapists working in a tranquil environment at The VOYA Spa at Jotty’s
“bringing you organic beauty from the sea” To rent space here in our beautiful SPA contact us on 01395 446580 or email jayne.ot@jottys.com The VOYA Spa at Jotty’s Emporium 43 - 43A High Street | Budleigh Salterton | Devon | EX9 6LE Telephone 01395 446580 | www.jottysspa.com
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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS
Pat Hoare
COUNSELLING
Therapeutic Counselling Supervision Hypnotherapy and Stress Management Over 32 years’ experience - offers confidential therapeutic counselling for individuals and couples.
PAT HOARE. DIP. COUNS. B.A.C.P. ACCREDITED
Accommodation
24a Gandy Street Exeter EX4 3LS Tel: 01392 410090 Email: pat@pathoare.eclipse.co.uk Web: www.caseconfidential.com
COUNSELLING
HEALING ARTS
Cathrin Wildwood Sexuality Therapist
Counselling individuals and couples for any issues related to sex, intimacy and relationships www.sexualitytherapist.co.uk hello@ sexualitytherapist.co.uk Tel: 07870 888141
INSIDER ART
We are running the following courses in Exeter in 2012 ART IN MENTAL HEALTH: A Foundation Course in Art Therapy ART IN MENTAL HEALTH: Practical Applications for Health & Community Practice Short courses: Introduction to Sandtray Therapy & Practical Applications; Narrative & Story Making Approaches; Art, Conflict & Anger Management For information visit www.insiderart.org.uk or e-mail info@insiderart.org.uk
NATURAL HEALTH CLINIC
FREE accommodation in yurt or chalet available March to October for experienced and reliable gardeners at medicinal herbal garden three miles from Totnes in exchange for two days work. For details www.greenlaneherbs.co.uk email: greenlaneherbs.frances@virgin.net. Tel: 07720 440866. Coaching
BREAKTHROUGH coaching with Carmella B’Hahn (author - Benjaya’s Gifts/Mourning Has Broken). Bowden House, Totnes. Transform through adversity. www.solacealchemy.com 01803 867005 carmella@solacealchemy.com Colonics
HEARTWOOD Home Colonics – safe, cheap DIY inner cleansing at Bowden House, Totnes or home hire. Brochure: carmella@solacealchemy. com 01803 867005. Communication
COMMUNICATION Blitz sessions with Carmella B’Hahn, Bowden House, Totnes. Transform patterns, learn conscious communication. Four sessions £100. 01803 867005 carmella@ solacealchemy.com Counselling
DAVID Oxley. Fully qualified, accredited BACP counsellor and psychotherapist trained in psychosynthesis and core process. Exeter, Plymouth and Totnes. www.davidoxleycounselling. co.uk 07876 051 093. david_oxley2@hotmail. com. HANDYMAN
REIKI
RETREAT
Land of Light RetReAt CentRe
QUALIFIED carpenter available to complete or assist with those small jobs around your home and garden. Do you need help with any general repairs, maintenance tasks, decorating, alterations, storage solutions, etc? See our main ad in the Eco Homes section – contact Tanya & Kevin to discuss your needs 01364 631415. Hay & Haylage
ORGANIC small bales, top quality. 0781 7975025, stert@ukf.net, S Devon TQ9/ A38. LOGS
‘Since my first session with Claire I am noticing a dramatic difference; a lighter and more carefree attitude to life’ Sam
Spiritual enquiry, personal growth, creativity, walking, meditation, dancing and community in the beautiful Alpujarras mountains, Southern Spain. Various accommodation available. Private rental of house and yurt at various times of the year. www.landoflightspain .com
ROOMS TO RENT
Well Healed Chiropody and Therapy Rooms
Rooms to rent for therapists and clinicians Historic building in the centre of Bovey Tracey. Level access, private location, parking nearby. l Online calendar and answering service for bookings. l l
Tel: 01626 830743
www.well-heeled.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co.uk
07878479402
YOGA
THE FORGE
YOGA CENTRE
01803 867440 Top of Collins Road, Totnes www.forgeyoga.co.uk theforge@totalise.co.uk
Voted one of the 10 best yoga centres in the UK by The Independent 23 drop-in classes a week plus weekend workshops Daily yoga classes
HARDWOOD seasoned logs from Wildlife Trust managed woods. 0781 7975025, stert@ukf.net, S Devon TQ9/ A38. Tai Chi and Qigong
WEEKLY classes, weekend workshops, online shop, instructor training. Leading teachers, high quality input for all levels. www.taichination.com. Call 01803 864 160 Psychotherapy
EXPERIENCED and qualified psychotherapist welcomes individuals and couples for confidential sessions in Harberton near Totnes. Lucia Capaldi BA (hons) UKCP. For an initial free meeting call 01803 840424 mob: 07809 441 519. www. luciacapaldi-psychotherapy-devon.co.uk. Yoga
YOGA in Central Torquay. Weekly classes Mondays and Thursdays 530pm - 7pm. Contact Virginia 07875217970. www.earthyogatorquay. co.uk
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
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Living on less...
That’s a nice useful object - I’ll have that* THIS is where things start to get messy. So far my Living on Less ramblings have been pretty positive with neat, clearly defined outcomes: kerb your material excesses so you need less income and therefore can work less or so you can afford to choose work that is rewarding in ways other than financial. All good logical stuff and a theory that ignites small fires of understanding, or even yearning, in the eyes of most people you discuss it with. It’s a philosophy that everyone ‘gets’ even if some of them could never actually make it work. No-one on their deathbed reflects on their life and concludes: “I really should have spent more time working…” But that less consumerist approach also suggests a simpler life, less burdened with material trappings – an uncluttered lifestyle, free of all but life’s essentials…
SO what do you do if you come across something that’s really too good to miss - but that you don’t actually need just yet? Simple you ‘put it there for now’ and search for it later...
What's in store...
In fact, there’s an entire social movement built up around the simple living philosophy. There’s loads about it online and numerous books on the subject too - enough to create quite a crowded, unruly bookshelf, actually... So is that how I live? Just the bare minimalist essentials? Well, no. Our cupboards are stuffed, our garage is stacked (actually, heaped is more accurate) and a small back garden is the only thing that’s stopped me building and filling a shed. Or two. The problem is that we are collectors. Not in the glass-fronted-cabinets-fullof-china-animals sense, but we do collect ‘things that will eventually be useful’. And we’re not just talking about the
usual domestic collectables here. Many a kitchen, utility room or shed rear shelf area will have some empty and washed jars gathering dust while they wait patiently for the next pickle-making session, or to provide a home for those little screws that keep rolling onto the floor and under the freezer now you’ve finally managed to open that hateful plastic bubble pack. No, jam jars are small fry. I’m talking doors. And tables. Even bricks and concrete blocks. For us, this is a key part of living on less and although it might look a little chaotic (sorry, dear neighbours), there is a method to the madness. Think of it as a sort of abstract planning. As I’ve discussed before on this page, many of the things we need
your local solution-focused hypnotherapist Michael Sanders
to create our homes and make our lives work are available free or at very little cost. Items and materials that would otherwise cost a fortune can be collected free of charge from a fellow Freecycler, or bought for a few quid at recycling centres, bootsales or even, as a last resort, on eBay. The problem is one of timing. You don’t always need the stuff when you see it - and you can’t always source the stuff when you do need it. The one sacrifice you make in a low income/expenditure world is that vital engine in the consumerist machine – convenience. If you want things on demand, you pay the price for the convenience. And if you can’t or don’t want to pay, you have to get it when you can and store it for when you need it. Personally, we have got better at it over the years. At one time, we’d see a front door, say, in excellent condition and know that, well, we’re bound to need to replace a front door one day… And there it would stand, leaning against the garage wall for years, like the secret entrance to some secret room. Now, though, we usually only acquire and store things we KNOW we’re going to need. Like, for example, the old pine table that I (eventually) used to make a worktop in the kitchen. Or the 12-paned glass door that we saw on Freecycle and which now lets so much extra light into our living room. Or the old cold water tank that now sits on a raised area of garden and collects water off the garage roof before overflowing into a
www.hypnotherapist-plymouth.com
Your past can't be changed. Your future can! Registered with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council
Of course, storing things isn’t really a problem – you just need to be organised. And while I am generally pretty good at recycling and reusing things in even quite creative ways – I am the first to admit I am not THAT organised. Or any type of organised, actually. I know the theory – a place for everything and everything in its place, as my mother would always say when I couldn’t find something. But what if something doesn’t have a place? Or if the best place for something is right at the back of the garage behind a whole load of other somethings - and you really don’t have time to totally reorganise the garage right now? My answer is simply to ‘put it there for now’, which as a long-term organisational strategy is, I admit, seriously lacking. And it does also mean that every few months I have to ‘sort the garage’, which involves taking everything out before restacking it in some sort of order. Now though, we have undertaken a new and altogether more ambitious project - a part-share in an area of land 10 minutes from our home (find out more on page 3). Now, this will mean we’ll be collecting a lot more stuff over the coming months (anyone got any chicken feeders they don’t want, for example?), so I do need to get more organised. Although you can fit a great many sheds on 12 acres… * One for Burglar Bill fans everywhere
Take a deep breaTh...
practices in Plymouth and Exeter
01822 834799
water butt (bought for four quid from the excellent Newton Abbot recycling centre – and stashed in the garage for a few weeks).
Learn how to use the power of your own breath to overcome stress and re-energise your body. Improve your health and help clear emotional blockages. Based in S Devon but offering workshops and 1:1 sessions throughout S W England
Transformational breathing Les Elms • les@breathsouthwest.com www.breathsouthwest.com
07828 566553 38
Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk
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WORKSHOP AND COURSES DIARY FEBRUARY Every Monday
MOVING into Bliss. Ananda Yoga Mondays, from 23 January, 10–11.30am, Lotus Loft, Exeter, £7.50 per session (£36 for 6 classes). Contact: linda@movingintobliss.org www.movingintobliss. org Tel: 07814 687902 EVERY MONDAY AND THURSDAY
YOGA in Central Torquay. Weekly classes Mondays and Thursdays 530pm - 7pm. Contact Virginia 07875217970. www.earthyogatorquay. co.uk Every Tuesday
QIGONG at the Exeter Mint Methodist Church with Brad Richecoeur, 5.30-7pm. Suitable for all levels. 0845 3305086. www.qigong-southwest. co.uk. Every Friday
QIGONG at St John’s Church Hall, Totnes with Brad Richecoeur, 10-11.30am. Suitable for all levels. 0845 3305086. www.qigong-southwest. co.uk. MOVING into Bliss. Yoga, Dancercise and deep relaxation. Fridays, from January 27, 12.45–1.45 Phoenix, Exeter. Cost £6. Contact: linda@ movingintobliss.org www.movingintobliss.org Tel: 07814 687902 Saturday 25
QIGONG workshop at South Brent Village Hall,
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South Devon with Brad Richecoeur, 10am-5pm. 0845 3305086 www.qigong-southwest.co.uk. Sunday 26
ENJOY working with colour energy: Teignmouth Workshop Using Colour for Healing / Finding Out Who You Are / Receiving a Psychic Reading and Rainbow Energiser / Experience the ‘Light Experiment’ etc. 01626 774404 email: healers@lighthavencentre.com MARCH Every Monday
MOVING into Bliss. Ananda Yoga Mondays, from 23 January, 10–11.30am, Lotus Loft, Exeter, £7.50 per session (£36 for 6 classes). Contact: linda@movingintobliss.org www.movingintobliss. org Tel: 07814 687902 EVERY MONDAY AND THURSDAY
YOGA in Central Torquay. Weekly classes Mondays and Thursdays 530pm - 7pm. Virginia 07875217970. www.earthyogatorquay.co.uk
Every Friday
QIGONG at St John’s Church Hall, Totnes with Brad Richecoeur, 10-11.30am. Suitable for all levels. 0845 3305086. www.qigong-southwest. co.uk. MOVING into Bliss. Yoga, Dancercise and deep relaxation. Fridays, from January 27, 12.45–1.45 Phoenix, Exeter. Cost £6. Contact: linda@ movingintobliss.org www.movingintobliss.org Tel: 07814 687902 Saturday 17
PSYCHIC DEVELOPMENT. Three-part workshop in Totnes, on Saturdays. Next one March 17, with Sarah Sidoli. Discover your hidden talents and have fun. £30 per day. 01364 643033, sidoli2connect@yahoo.co.uk Sunday 25
TRANSFORMATIONAL 10-Day Accredited Healing and Development Course (one day a month). Some places left - 01626 774404. email: healers@lighthavencentre.com
Every Tuesday
QIGONG at the Exeter Mint Methodist Church with Brad Richecoeur, 5.30-7pm. Suitable for all levels. 0845 3305086. www.qigong-southwest. co.uk. Every Thursday
RAINBOW Children. Magical children’s classes, storytelling, yoga, free-form dance and movement. Encouraging free expression, helping children flow through life’s challenges. Guideline: 5–8yrs. Thursdays, from 26 January, 4.30–5.30pm, Phoenix, Exeter £5 per session (paid termly in advance). Contact: linda@ movingintobliss.org www.movingintobliss.org Tel: 07814 687902
Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk
39
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