Reconnect 2 Aug-Sept 09

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

ISSUE 2 AUG/SEP 2009

MAGAZINE

local people local events local food local health local environment

at the heart and soul of Exeter, Plymouth and South Devon

FREE

Gigs, shows and festivals

please take one and pass it on

Gardening with friends

Be well naturally

Love your environment

A right to be happy Taking play seriously

Let the sun shine in

Community and Transition

Galleries, studios and workshops

local people local events local food local health local environment The Contemporary College of Homeopathy

Interested in health and people?

Become a homeopath.

You give us one weekend a month; we give you an unrivalled, dynamic and professional training. Homeopathy is more than a system of medicine. It is challenging, rewarding and life-changing.

Be better. Get others better.

The Contemporary College of Homeopathy, Bristol.

For fur ther details please visit our web site:

www.conhom.com

or call 0845-6032878

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Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

local people local events local food local health local environment

WHAT do you do?

Simple enough question. They mean for a job, of course; your line of business. Calling, even.

For some, the very question is an irritant. They don’t want to be pigeon-holed by their profession; don’t need a vocation to validate them. “I’m a human being,” they might say, “not a human doing.”

Lovely sentiment, and one most of us would happily share given the chance, but down here on Planet Reality most of us have to earn a living. And, as all those disaster stories of lottery-win life-crashes prove, most of us actually want to work. Maybe need to.

If you work for yourself (now there’s a loaded phrase), the ability to clearly and succinctly sum up what goods or services you offer is crucial – your clients or customers need to know what you’re offering before they will buy it.

And it’s down to you to tell them.

But I know from experience that the majority of those working in the healing and creative arts find that process very tricky. Everyone knows what accountants and mechanics do – but tell them you’re a kinesiologist or a conceptual artist and you’ve still got some explaining to do. Which is fine if you’re making smalltalk over the hummus at a party, but not so good if you’re choosing the wording for a business card, or talking to a potential client at a show or festival.

One problem is that individual words get endlessly bounced around the media until they’ve taken on entirely different connotations or, even worse, have become almost meaningless. And everyone’s awareness and perception changes too (not always for the better), adding another variable into the mix.

Take ‘alternative’... Even back at the beginning of this millennium (what hope we had, how we partied), we were publishing Connect, which we called ‘an alternative magazine’. We meant an alternative to the mainstream press and most people seemed to get it.

But even over the less-than-a-decade that’s passed since, many of the subjects we covered then, and still cover now, have themselves become part of the mainstream: organic food is stacked high in the supermarkets; complementary health is the norm, and even available through some GPs; renewable energy – just turn on the news.

So if reconnect is full of all the stuff you see in the Daily Mail (apologies for using that sort of language in front of our more sensitive readers) and on News at Ten, what exactly is it an alternative to?

Well, you do get all that stuff in reconnect – but you won’t get anything else. Surely any ‘alternative’ is about making a choice. And as consumers we make choices all the time.

As a magazine, and as individuals too, we would always choose small local businesses over supermarkets; organic and/or locally-grown food over airfreighted and/ or intensively-farmed; renewable (ideally communityproduced) energy over fossil fuels; homegrown veg and a walk in the woods over Sunday trips to an out-of-town garden centre.

We, like the rest of you, need to make a living and reconnect has to work as a business, but you won’t see advertisements for supermarkets (no matter how much they offer to pay), and we’ll always offer big discounts to charities and give acres of free editorial coverage to things we believe in. reconnect IS an alternative lifestyle magazine (and that’s ‘lifestyle’ as in a genuine way of living, not in some designer-green creation). So that’s what we do.

How about you?

THE internet has hit the world’s media harder that anything Caxton could have dreamt of, primarily because it puts the limitless power of publishing at the very fingertips of the people. History’s press barons would be turning in their graves if they weren’t preoccupied by the sound of the masses dancing above them.

But while the mainstream (that word again) press continue to treat the internet as a means of advertising, almost everyone else has realised it’s actually the product – stick everything you sell through your newspaper on the internet for nothing and, sooner or later, people will stop buying the paper. Maybe it’s because they’re words-people, not numbers-people…

So, where does that leave us? Well, we’re a free magazine anyway (as most papers will be eventually), and because we put the whole magazine on our website www.reconnectonline.co.uk, our advertisers are delighted.

But while we will always produce a magazine, and believe there is still a huge demand for something you can hold in your hands and stuff in your pocket and read in the loo, our website also provides an infinite amount of space for us to do things we can’t do in the mag.

So when you see a ‘Read more online’ logo at the end of a story, check out the website for a longer version, or additional information.

And just as soon as our next batch of 36-hour days are delivered we’ll be adding a Hot News section too, and there are some other tasty virtual treats slowly cooking on our web designer’s hard-drive.

Oh, and if you’re a wholesome local business with a website, you can sponsor one of our traffic-heavy pages and have a link-festooned advertisement on it for a lot less than you’d expect.

All other reader/visitor input digested with relish (organic, locally produced) – email editor@reconnectonline.co.uk.

Left to Right: Martin, Pete, Andy & Robin

PUBLISHER Robin Currie - 01392 411630 robin@reconnectonline.co.uk EDITOR Martin Foster - 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk Blacksmith’s Cottage, Washbourne, Totnes TQ9 7UB COMMERCIAL EDITOR Pete Hardy - 01392 346342 2 Withall’s Gardens, Lympstone, EX8 5JH adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk DESIGNER Andy Gooding - 01626 353977 www.visiongraphicdesign.co.uk PUBLISHED BY Reconnect Publishing Ltd, 15 Sylvan Rd, Exeter EX4 6EW PRINTED BY Kingfisher Print, Wills Road, Totnes TQ9 5XN. www.kingfisherprint.co.uk ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE Advertising for the October/November issue (out Oct 1) must be booked by Sept 11.

To talk about advertising (no hard sell, we promise!), call Pete Hardy on 01392 346342 or email adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk.

Advert sizes and prices are on our website: www.reconnectonline.co.uk WEBSITE Visit www.reconnectonline.co.uk and you’ll find: • an online PDF version of this issue • a day-by-day events diary • more news and articles • advert sizes and prices • details of our magazine stockists • loads of useful links To contribute, please email Martin or Pete ECO ETHOS reconnect connect is written, designed, printed and distributed locally, using materials from sustainable sources. The magazine is printed using vegetable-based inks and biodegradable fount solution, and the paper is 75 per cent post-consumer waste and 25 per cent virgin fibre from a sustainable source. It is also chlorine-free and FSC-accredited (www.fsc-uk.org).

All by-products of the production and printing processes are recycled. Please recycle reconnect connect 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 do what we can 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

great design requires a strong vision • logo creation, corporate id & branding • advertising & promotional material • leaflets, newsletters, magazines & brochures • business stationery • small business start-up t: 01626 353977 m: 07825 432426

www.visiongraphicdesign.co.uk info@visiongraphicdesign.co.uk

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

For all your design, print & web needs visit our website...

Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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local people local events local food local health local environment

Good place to Start ENJOY a day-long celebration of all that’s good in Start Bay in Slapton, on Saturday, August 22, with arts and crafts, local food and drink, wildlife activities, sustainable living, workshops, talks and shopping - followed by an evening of entertainment.

On the level

Call 0845 3889147 or visit www.slaptonline.org

Donations are welcome

Smells like green spirit

MANY of us can see the benefits of visiting an acupuncturist for 25 treatments over the course of a year, but few of us have a bank balance to allow it to happen.

THERE’S always a buzz around any mention of biodiesel, and especially when it’s made from recycled cooking oil. But where can you actually buy the stuff?

But when you see The Barefoot Doctor, a full 25 sessions will cost you exactly as much as you can afford.

Well, from Greenearth Biodiesel in Crediton.

Run by two brothers, Jonathan and William Brown, Greenearth are producing and selling recycled cooking oil, for use in any diesel-powered vehicle, for around 5p a litre cheaper than normal diesel – and, more importantly, with 78 per cent fewer carbon emissions. Smells a whole lot better too.

Based at Foxhole, on Dartington Estate, The Barefoot Doctor (real name Ramin Khaknegar Moghaddam but he finds most people prefer ‘The Barefoot Doctor’ – not to be confused with the one who writes books and makes DVDs) is adamant that such regular treatment is necessary.

“Everyone who comes to me believes there is something wrong with them – there isn’t,” he explains. “It is their natural way to be, but their energy is out of balance and needs to be shifted.”

“Ideally people need to make big changes in their lives to support that shift, but because that is often not possible, regular visits will maintain it.”

They’ve got all the right Environment Agency paperwork, of course, but they’re an industrial company, not a garage forecourt, so you can only buy it by the drum – and only on Saturday mornings, from 9am-12noon, at Unit 4, Marsh End. Find out more in the next issue of Reconnect, call them on 01363 777750, or visit www.chipfatfuels.co.uk

After an initial 1hr 40min consultation, 12 weekly treatments are followed by 12 more gradually moving to every four weeks over the next nine months.

LAUNCHING Reconnect as we did with a July/August issue meant we were too late for many dates on the festival circuit (next year’s comprehensive guide is already underway!), but there’s just time to mention

Find out more about his form of acupuncture (it’s pain-free too) at www.toyohari.org, and call 0800 434 6595 to make your first appointment.

Beautiful Days

A NEW Bowen Technique clinic, aimed specifically at children, has opened in Teignmouth.

at Escot Park in Ottery St Mary, August 21-23.

This three-day event, with its emphasis on quality rather than hype, has won many friends over its seven years, not least because the organisers, the band The Levellers, refuse to accept any form of corporate sponsorship or branding.

This year’s line-up, as well as The Levellers, includes Hawkwind, The Pogues, Lamb, Richard Thompson, The Saw Doctors, Gong, Dreadzone, Dub Pistols, The Wonder Stuff, Frank Turner, Eliza Carthy, The Blockheads, Imelda May, The Living End, Kissmet, The King Blues, Babar Luck and Imagined Village.

If you can still get a ticket, go.

Visit www.beautifuldays.org.

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New clinic for children It is run by Shan (pronounced Sharn) Ford, who used to be part of a very similar, and hugely successful, clinic in Somerset.

She explained that Bowen is a subtle, soft tissue treatment, which is relaxing and gentle, involving no hard or prolonged pressure, and so is ideal for kids.

“It has wonderful results on a whole range of conditions,” said Shan, “from eczema and bed-wetting right through to behaviour difficulties and severe disabilities like autism. They are all helped to some degree.”

As with many therapies, children are particularly receptive.

“They are very open and absorb the treatment so easily,” said Shan. “What would take an hour with an adult can be achieved in 20 minutes.”

Call Shan 0794 9579 160.

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

Torbay Teranga TERANGA means hospitality in the language of the Wolof people from Senegal and is also the name given to a multi-cultural festival in Paignton.

Teranga 3 (it’s the third year of the annual event) promises to be a fantastic family day, say the organisers Imagine, Torbay’s Multicultural Group.

At Oldway Mansion on Sunday, August 23, from 11am-5pm, it will include live bands and musicians, international food, workshops, arts and crafts and much more. And it’s free.

“People who come to enjoy the festival can be assured of some typical Torbay Teranga!” says Imagine’s Valerina Brookes.

Call Valerina on 0773 640 6858 or via email valerinabrookes@yahoo.co.uk

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

local people local events local food local health local environment

The

Arcturus Clinic

Leading the way in Complementary Medicine

professional holistic medicine, therapy & healthcare

Making a difference A SERIES of craft workshops in Totnes have been put together with the emphasis “on the experience of making and getting in touch with your creative nature, rather than performing to any pre-set standards”.

Environment is important for creativity and these are held at The Cauldron, a craft workshop set in The Walled Garden of Bowden House, and creative home to Geraldine Finnon, whose own workshop, making felt tea cosies, is there on Sunday, August 6, 10am-4pm. The cost is £50/concessions.

Geraldine will also be playing host to visiting craft makers: over the weekends of August 14-16 and September 25-27, Learn Leatherwork Weekend (basic skills and create your own project) with John Hagger; and on Friday, August 21, weave willow bread baskets with Jan Baker.

Times and prices vary and there are more courses coming up.

Call Geraldine on 07849 072388, or email ladi.green@yahoo.com, to find out more.

EDAP in pipeline

47 Fore Street • Totnes • Devon • TQ9 5NJ T: 01803 868 282 • info@arcturusclinic.co.uk www.arcturusclinic.co.uk www.arcturusclinic.co.uk

GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF HEALTH ®

• Discover Raw eating and living foods • Fun, interactive group workshops • Personal masterclasses available for all levels • Weekend Workshops next date Sun 30th August Quote ‘RAW reconnect’ for a £5 discount

www.mldetox.co.uk or call Violetta for a friendly consultation on 01626 770121

AFTER a lengthy process of meetings and public workshops, the first draft of the Transition Totnes Energy Descent Action Plan (EDAP) is going online in August in conjunction with the LocalEyes website www.localeyes.org for TTT groups to see each others’ comments and views.

THE GREEN FUNERAL COMPANY

After more tweaking it will be published at a public presentation on October 24 – more details in the next issue, or visit totnes.transitionnetwork.org.

Guided Torre

Sum of the parts

MANY of us have experienced the effects of complementary health and personal development techniques. And increasingly, areas of knowledge and exploration are being brought together to produce something yet more powerful.

LifeTracking is described by practitioners Judith Vincent and Lizzie Hubbard as having “the power to affect how you are in the world, how you relate to others, and what sort of difference you make.”

The course, run over five weekends in the Music Room at Foxhole on the Dartington estate, covers a range of subjects and techniques, including muscle testing; Chinese Medicine principles; Listening Touch; subtle energy, chakras and subtle bodies; breathing techniques, listening skills, building confidence in self-expression and goal-setting.

The course costs £165 per weekend and starts on October 24/25, 9.30am-5pm.

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For more information, call Judith on 01803 612326 or Lizzie on 01548 821397.

Claire and Rupert Callender.

Helping you to create unique, inclusive, honest and appropriate ceremonies.

Full undertaking service, cremations, woodland burials, church services We also offer ethically invested, pre-payment funeral plans.

TORRE Abbey, at Torquay, is earning itself a place on the cultural map of Devon with the success of its 2009 Torre Abbey Contemporary Open (TACO to its friends).

More than 50 local and regional artists are showing 80 exhibits, including paintings, multi-media work, sculptures and installations. And if you need another reason to visit, Antony Gormley’s Field for the British Isles (think 40,000 unglazed, fired, small clay figures, standing closely together, all staring towards the viewer – no, don’t think, go see it) in the Abbey’s Spanish Barn.

• Dr Vodder Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage • Supports detoxification, healing and weight loss • Ideal for post-surgery, sleep problems or pure relaxation • Target conditions such as IBS, swollen limbs and skin problems.

Quote ‘MLD reconnect’ for a £5 discount (1st session)

Covering Devon and Cornwall A New Trustee of The Natural Death Centre

01803 863923

Funeral Directors established 2000

Old School Farm, Dartington Hall, Totnes, TQ9 6EB www.thegreenfuneralcompany.co.uk enquiry@thegreenfuneralcompany.co.uk

Both exhibitions are on until the end of August.

More at www.torreabbey.org.uk.

Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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local people local events local food local health local environment

Early ramblings ONE for the diary, but they’ve made the effort to let us know, so make a note - the third South Devon Walking Festival runs October 2-11.

A whole team of expert guides will introduce you to some stunning coastal, estuary and country routes within South Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with a range of themes including wildlife, history, archaeology, culture, gardens, food and the natural landscape.

It’s all organised by the South Devon AONB, with the help of The South Hams Ramblers, National Trust, Ivybridge Walking Group and South Devon Walking for Health groups.

They say there will be 40 walks, varying in length up to a maximum of nine miles and everyone is welcome to participate with friends, or to make friends, whatever age, interest or ability.

First visit www.southdevonwalkingfestival. co.uk (you won’t even need your walking boots) for the full story.

The photo shows walkers on a route around the beautiful grounds of Britannia Naval College in Dartmouth, last year, which local resident Jonathan Dimbleby participated in.

Screen in the park DON’T you just envy those countries with warmer climes that can enjoy the delights of open-air cinemas?

Well, envy no more and get your coat (possibly), this year’s Big Screen in the Park is coming back to Northernhay Gardens in Exeter.

Take a picnic, but no alcohol.

Call the Exeter Phoenix box office on 01392 667080, or visit www.exeterphoenix.org.uk

Therapists get together

Yes we CAN

THERAPISTS operating in the Exeter area can find help and advice from a local group administered by the Complementary Therapists Association (CThA).

The Exeter and District Therapists’ Group has a membership of 50 and meets once a month, when they have guest speakers and exchange information.

The group is independent, non-profit making and open to all therapists.

Email coordinator John Maclean on john@newwavehypnotherapy.com

MASTER Zhixing Wang is leading a week-long retreat to teach the Five Animals of Qigong, the practice’s oldest recorded form.

Twenty years ago, as a student at Leicester University, Zhixing began teaching Qigong, then little known in England. Today he one of the most respected Qigong masters in the western world, with a strong Westcountry following.

The next weekend with Zhixing is September 26-27 in Dartington and the Five Animals retreat runs from October 23-29. Call Brad on 0845 330 5086, or visit www.qigong-southwest.co.uk.

THERE is now a climate action group or transition initiative up and running, or being formed, in every town, and many villages, across Devon.

Great news for everyone involved, and ultimately for the earth too, but there is also a danger that many of the groups are beavering away reinventing very similar wheels. And it can be a nightmare for organisations like Devon County Council who have to deal with a wide variety of people and groups.

Enter Devon CAN, the Devon Climate Action Network.

It was formed in March at a meeting of 61 activists, representing 26 transition and climate action groups, at Embercombe Sustainable Community in the Teign Valley.

Currently run by a steering group, chaired

by Dr Niall MacLeod, an Exeter-based GP, they are still going through that torturous process of writing constitutions and the like before they can get funding. But ultimately they see their role as “connecting, supporting and representing” this rapidly growing Devon movement, says Niall.

A new website is in the pipeline, but in the meantime you can find and join them at devonclimateactionnetwork.ning.com, or email admin.devoncan@googlemail.com.

Community in the house

Reflecting on Matt

Qigong masterclass

Chants would be a fine thing MANY of you will already have encountered Gavin Frank as half of the musical duo, Madrum, which has carved a perfectly shaped slot for itself in that fascinating area of folk/experimental/fusion. Hard to define, but then we don’t have to try too hard – visit www.myspace.com/somacd and listen for yourself.

What you may not know is that Gavin also runs chanting groups and workshops in Totnes.

“Chanting is simple, profound and anyone can do it!” says Gavin. “Come and sing your heart – no vocal experience is necessary.”

Find out more at www.listentothevoice.co.uk.

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Sponsored by Animal surfwear, you can see Mama Mia (if you must) on August 15, Star Trek on August 14, Wall-E on August 13, plus the award-winning new film Waveriders on Wednesday, August 12, which traces the unlikely Irish roots of the worldwide surfing phenomenon.

A NEW community-based project is taking shape near Brixham, at Lupton House, formerly known as Gramercy Hall School, which has been lying empty for some years.

The Lupton Trust plans to create a “community enterprise village” where local charities, artists, musicians and craftspeople can work together.

The full plans will be unveiled at an open day on Saturday, August 15, 11am-7pm, where there will also be music, refreshments, activities for children and displays.

Entry costs £2. Call 0778 2503711 and visit www.luptontrust.org

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

TOTNES-based poet Matt Harvey is a bit of a hero in these parts - and increasingly in fartherflung parts too.

The man behind the Wondermentalist Cabaret (sadly the last one was held at the recent Ways With Words festival), Matt has recently been heard reading his own superhero series, Empath Man, in the afternoon on Radio 4.

And he was asked to write a poem celebrating iconic designs for the Science Museum in London, which you can hear at http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=KpmoyUwXz0c.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

local people local events local food local health local environment A look at OneVision BACK in the Eighties, a regular gathering was held at St James’s Church in Piccadilly, London, which grew into a hugely influential group.

Turning Points, which later became Alternatives, was driven by psychotherapist Malcolm Stern (left), the rector Donald Reeves, and Roger Housden, of the Open Gate Trust, and soon huge names like Ram Dass, Thich Nhat Hanh, Jean Shinoda Bolen and Elisabeth Kubler Ross were appearing on the programme.

Malcolm Stern moved to the Westcountry in the Nineties and a few years ago he and a group of others formed The OneVision Foundation, which is now hosting similar events at St David’s Church in Exeter.

Speakers have so far included The Barefoot Doctor, cosmologist Jude Currivan and Reconnect’s very own Robin Currie. And future speakers are Dr David Hamilton (How your mind can heal your body) on Tuesday, August 18, and Nick Clements (The ugly duckling - refining male sexuality) on Tuesday, September 15.

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By using the latest NLP and Time Line Therapy techniques I empower you to let go of negative emotions and limiting beliefs swiftly and comfortably.

Imagine how good it feels when you are in control and creating a new fulfilling life.

For more details and a free consultation phone Erica on:

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www.inspiringaction.co.uk 

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Talks are currently monthly, but there are plans to go fortnightly and also to host workshops.

Find out more at www.onevisionfoundation.com.

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Is it the answer for you?

IT’S interesting that most therapists and practitioners find it hard to put into words what they do – until you ask them the right questions.

When we asked Ursula Athene, a multi-disciplined therapist working in Totnes, what she did, she thought for a while and said: “I help people to find their happiness again.”

And what does she use to do that?

“A combination of energy medicine, transmission healing and channeled dialogue.”

And what effect does that have on people?

“It allows them to restore their own health using their own life-force.”

That’s Ursula, then. Call on 01803 402280 or 0794 431 9228, if you want to ask her anything else or to book an appointment.

Relaxation nailed YOU would be excused a double-take if you were told the bed of nails was back, but the Shakti Mat has been helping users find relief from a range of symptoms since it made its debut in Russia almost 30 years ago.

The manufacturers say the 6000 plastic spikes on the mat stimulate acupressure points, increase blood and lymph circulation, triggering selfhealing and blocking pain to create a sense of deep relaxation and well-being.

Call Lucie Minne on 01803-732 761, or email lucie.yoga@rocketmail.com

ACTING STAGE / FILM ACTING CONFIDENCE TRAINING PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT MASTERING STAGE-FRIGHT, WRITING and PERFORMING your own work … or just simply PLAYING - rediscovering your SELF.

Escape to the country

VISIT THE ADULT-PLAYGROUND

LOOKING for a place to escape?

Want a bolt-hole to meditate, write poetry, draw, sleep… or just be?

On-going Courses in and around Totnes

You need to spend a day (or a weekend, or longer) in Maggie Clark’s garden room. It’s got a woodburner, it’s got a desk and it’s got a bed.

And it will cost you just £10, from dawn until dusk. Yes, £10. Freedom never came so cheap.

You can use bathroom facilities in her nearby farmhouse, there’s a selection of teas and coffee provided, and Maggie will prepare you breakfast and/or supper and snacks, at very reasonable prices.

www.actsouthwest.co.uk

01803 865465

Call 01647 231470 or email maggie.h.clark@tinyworld.co.uk.

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 How The Work works

Pick up a DEBI

WHEN Byron Katie discovered she only suffered when she believed her stressful thoughts, she developed a process she calls The Work, which anyone can use to question their own negativity and realise their full potential.

IF you run an environmentally-sound business, a local green awards scheme can recognise your efforts, spread the word - and lead to increased business.

You can find out more about The Work - which Eckhart Tolle called “a great blessing for our planet” – with certified trainer Colette Grünbaum at Bowden House, Totnes, on October 24-25.

The DEBI (Devon Environmental Business Initiative) Awards have been up and running for 17 years now and they are now looking for 2009 entries.

To find out more, call Claire on 0781 3200361 and visit www.thework.com.

The five categories are: Environmental Goods and Services; Carbon Reduction; Sustainable Devon; Food and Farming; and Environmental Champion. And entries come from all sectors of business - last year’s overall winner was Paignton Zoo.

Getting to know yourself IT’S sometimes difficult to make sense of what can appear to be an infinite number of different personality types. As we react to, and inter-react with, those around us, we often fail to understand these complex relationships – and sometimes struggle to even understand ourselves.

More details and entry forms from www.debi-online.org.uk, or call Michaela Savage on 0845 257 3324.

Help for abuse victims

New home for funeral firm

Within the Enneagram Programme, there are just nine personality types, each of which sees the world through a slightly different ‘filter’.

THE traumatic experience of sexual abuse can leave lasting scars, but volunteers in Devon are helping victims to recover and start new lives.

AFTER nine years at its birthplace in Cornwall, The Green Funeral Company has moved to a new base near Totnes.

Understand those types, and how they inter-react, and you immediately begin to better understand yourself and those around you.

The Rape and Sexual Abuse Helpline is a free service which gives a friendly and anonymous ear to people in Devon who have been raped or sexually abused either recently or in the past.

Rupert and Claire Callender began the company in 2000 and ran it from their home in Treburley, Cornwall, before moving to Dartington Estate in December last year to link up with the Landscope Project, which has a vision to promote sustainable land use through social and environmental enterprise.

“That will lead,” says programme leader Veronica Croft, “to a real insight into the emotional patterns and blocks that hold you back and cause relationships to flourish or flounder.

The Rape & Sexual Abuse Line is 0808 800 0188 or visit www.therapeandsexualabusehelpline.co.uk

Find out more at www.enneagram-uk.com or call 01884 855759.

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Any volunteers who wish to put themselves forward for specialist training this October are asked to call 01392 254575.

“When we first meet you, we are unlikely to be wearing suits. We do not have a fleet of hearses and limousines. We do not employ bearers. We do not have a standard funeral and we do not use euphemisms. We do not consider faux-Victoriana and a mournful expression to be an assurance of respect and dignity. We can produce a traditional funeral - we have buried Generals and Lords - but we approach each funeral as unique.”

The Enneagram programme is run over two weekends, with three weeks between them – the first weekend covering the nine personality types, including discovering your own; and the second devoted to setting yourself free from the parts of your personality “that prevent true joy and contentment.”

M AD

“One call can help victims to understand what has happened and to move forward in life.”

“I spent much of my childhood in the hospice where my mother worked,” said Rupert, “and the caring, humanistic philosophy of the hospice movement is central to our work.

“A clear understanding of your interactions with people in your life will bring great harmony in all relationships.”

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A helpline organiser said: “The service we provide is confidential, anonymous and most importantly, a ‘listening’ service. Callers feel they are ‘being heard’ without being judged, encouraged to ‘do’ anything or ‘take any action’.

Most important, they feel they are believed.

Green Funerals offers coffins made from materials such as wicker and bamboo, and can arrange for woodland burials, churchyard burials or cremations on sites throughout Devon and Cornwall.

Call 01803 863923 or visit www.thegreenfuneralcompany.co.uk.

Speaking from experience

Sunny delight YOU can expect to read a great deal more about renewable energy systems over the coming issues and, as a starting point, we’ve heard from Chris Rudge Renewable Power, in Seaton, who offer a range of solar and wind systems, for DIY installation or fully fitted.

And the prices certainly look impressive, including as they do a 1kWp package for £6000, and a 2kWp package for £11,000.

They’re also wholesomely local and non-corporate.

Find out more at www.chrisrudge.co.uk or call 01297 306114/07743 847961. enquiries@chrisrudge.co.uk

8

OFTEN the most driven, passionate and effective therapists are those whose own lives were transformed by the therapy.

No cure for festival fever

Such is the case with Christina Bustamante, who cast off feelings of shyness and timidity by using Emotional Freedom Techniques, or EFT.

THE Totnes Festival is a multi-hued umbrella covering a wide range of events from September 4-13.

Said Christina: “When I discovered EFT, which works directly on how you feel rather than what you think, it took me on an express ride uncovering and tapping on the causes of my timidity and lack of self-esteem.

“Now I am in touch with my ‘real’ inner-self, I find I am attracting people and circumstances into my life that make me happier than I have ever been.

EFT is a wonderful tool that has transformed my life and is still doing so.”

Call 01509 8444243/07947 011 914, email cijenke@hotmail.com, or visit www.christinabustamante.com .

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

From an Oxford Waits (pictured) early/ folk concert in St Mary’s church (7.30pm on Saturday 5th) to Morris Men in Totnes Civic Square (11am on Sunday 7th), and from Autumn Berry Gathering at Follaton Arboretum (10am-4pm on Sunday 13th) to Torbay Symphony Orchestra in Totnes Civic Hall (7.30pm on the Sunday evening), there’s something of every cultural flavour.

More on these events, and others, in our Going Out Diary, and the full rundown of events on the festival website, www.totnesfestival.com

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

local people local events local food local health local environment The flow of the Water Pilgrim Wearable MAX Laithwaite’s marathon fundraising journey crafts around the South coast is relying on the kindness of strangers.

The 29-year-old, who lives in Tavistock, set out on July 10 from Minehead on the first part of a 1000 kilometre walk to raise funds for, and awareness of, Water Aid. Known as The Water Pilgrim, Max is walking the South West Coast Path without money.

In order to highlight the plight of the poorest in the world he is relying on the strangers he meets along the way for discussion, food and accommodation. “During the journey I am attending events to talk about the importance of water and how we can all get involved,� he said.

The issues he will discuss include flooding, pollution and waste in the UK plus drinking water, sanitation and climate change worldwide.

His journey takes him from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset through Cornwall and Devon.

On Friday August 21 he will be taking part in a beach clean and BBQ on Wembury beach starting at 10am - all invited - and arrives in Plymouth on August 22, Brixham August 28 and Exmouth on September 1.

If you can help Max with accommodation and/or food, call 07899 960 221 or email maximlaithwaite@waterpilgrim.com

AN exhibition in Totnes aims to bring together and celebrate a revival in locally produced textiles and clothing.

Made In Devon, at the Costume Museum in Bogan House, will feature printed textiles from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, and the High Street window will display “wearable crafts� produced by a range of local makers, including indigo dyers, embroiderers, felt-makers, designers working with recycled materials, weavers and college students.

Dates are listed in our Going Out Diary, or just call in and take pot-luck.

Call 01803 237864 to find out more.

101 ways to a greener funeral

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IF you live your life with a green agenda, you should seriously consider how those you leave behind will conduct your funeral.

There are a variety of things you can do to have a more positive impact on the planet – so many, in fact, that 101 of them have been listed in a book

by Green Fuse funeral directors Jane Morrell and Simon Smith.

Suggestions range from telling your florist not to use cellophane to offsetting your life’s carbon footprint and they’re all in We Need To Talk About The Funeral - 101 Practical Ways To Commemorate And Celebrate A Life.

Jane and Simon are founder members of the Association of Green Funeral Directors and Green Fuse Contemporary RE O O Funerals has a High Street centre in Totnes.

The book is available in paperback or ebook form for ÂŁ14.99 from www.greenfuse.co.uk/funeralbook.htm.

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Organic food on wheels

Sound baths

LOVE Local Food is a social enterprise and not-for-profit business which runs a mobile shop around the Exeter area, stocked with fresh, organic, and where possible local, produce, plus Fairtrade and ethically produced goods.

SOUND healing specialist Martyn Rudin has relaunched his Soundz Magic “sound bath� workshops and is on the lookout for venues.

The team behind the project includes Emma’s Bread, Shillingford Organics, West Town Farm and OrganicARTS. See their website www.lovelocalfood.org.uk for full details of their round, but their new Friday stopping places, which started July 24, include: Pynes Hill Business Park (12.15-1pm), Mitchelmores; (1.15-1.45pm) NHS and the Express & Echo on Sowton Industrial Estate (2-2.45pm), Clyst Heath Play Park, near school (3-3.45pm) and Devon County Council, Great Moor House (4-5pm).

Free treatment on offer THE Massage & Wellbeing Centre, in Gandy Street, Exeter, is looking for six volunteers who regularly suffer PMT or menopausal symptoms and would like free, non-invasive treatment in return for testimonials.

Call Nigel Millett on 01392 258855 /07887 891218, email enquiries@massageandwellbeing.co.uk, or visit www.massageandwellbeing.co.uk

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

He can also supply his special sounds for weddings, funerals or parties.

Love

Freedom to

Discover the Presence of Love within you.

Jackie offers one-to-one sessions, workshops & talks. “Sessions with Jackie are truly transformational, she works in a very loving and accepting way, and I always feel completely safe to uncover deeper aspects of myself.�

D.B. Exeter “A source of inspiration and insightfulness. Jackie’s patience and compassion shines through all her work. The pathway is made smooth and purposeful, the destination joyous.�

W.T. Teignmouth For more information visit the website: www.jackiewatson.co.uk or email: info@jackiewatson.co.uk / Tel: (0)1626 854367

LifeTracking with Lizzie Hubbard and Judith Vincent Starts 24th – 25th October The Foxhole Centre, Dartington for more information please call 01803 612326 ‘...transformative, inspirational and evolutionary yet so much fun’ K.J.

4(% 7)3% 7/-!. 7)4().

(ET TO KNOW YOUR WISE WOMAN WITH %R +ILL 5RESEDERÂŁS BOOK 4HE 7ISE 7OMAN 7ITHIN 3PIRALS TO 7HOLENESS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE FROM +ILL 5EL VVV VHRDVNL@MVHSGHM BN TJ

“I want to share the beauty, bliss, power and joy of sound healing,� he said.

Individual Psychotherapy

“And I’m calling on other sonic, love-filled gong players to join me and bring the magic into the community.�

We offer an approach that brings the wisdom and compassion of Buddhist understanding to Western psychotherapy

Sound baths are held regularly in Exeter, Totnes, Teignmouth, Exmouth and other towns.

Call 0800 955 3488, or visit www.soundzmagic.co.uk

For a free initial meeting in Exeter or Totnes call Mark Craig MA 01803 865672

Emma Fein MA 01364 631512

Colin Sutton MA 01363 774837 07811 285875

UKCP Registered - Accredited - Professional Code of Ethics

Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

9

local people local events local food local health local environment

The village people IT’S one of life’s trade-offs.

You choose to live in the red-earthed countryside of Devon for the community, the peace and the sheer beauty of the place. But not living in a town or city, you miss out on all that high-quality entertainment right on your doorstep, right?

WRONG. Villages in Action is bringing the very best of drama, music and dance to a village hall near you, as assistant director Jill Greig explains…

The new Devon-based company Angel Heart Theatre really wowed Villages in Action audiences in 2007/8 with their puppet show, The Nightingale, and they’re back with a new show called Oshima and the Big Sea. Completely different again is the consummate performer Pip Utton, whose one-man shows are described in The British Theatre Guide as “a masterclass in acting”. This time, he turns his attention to Charles Dickens’s last public reading of A Christmas Carol.

Another top sell-out night VILLAGES in Action has been taking high quality entertainment to small rural venues for more than 15 years now. That’s hundreds of professional performers and musicians, performing in Devon village halls, churches and community centres.

Unpacked Theatre Company return with their new family show, Jumping Mouse. Unpacked use high-octane physicality, live music, puppetry and parts of a London bus for this hilarious show, coming in November.

Mervyn Stutter, went down a storm he’s back in the Autumn If you like your theatre modern, surreal and hilarious, don t miss Gonzo Moose with Is That a Bolt in Your Neck?, a gothic horror spoof. Gonzos will be in Devon in November. And then there’s Joe Stilgoe, son of songwriter Richard, who is quickly making a name for himself in many top jazz clubs and Steve Harley, a slide guitarist who has toured the world gathering influences and creating his blues-based songs.

The new 2009/2010 programme includes several favourites, returning for a second or even third time, plus busloads of new and exciting international companies.

The Ministry of Entertainment is Bristol-based Kate McNab and Ross Harvey, who return with their latest show, Goodbye Mrs Chips, the story of dinnerlady Mrs Chipping, who is hanging up her egg mallet, and gravy sieve after 60 years of service. With eight characters between them, Kate and Ross are kept pretty busy on stage in this lovingly humorous piece of theatre. Look out for them in October.

Brentor Village Hall!

The UK’s best known five-string banjo player, Leon Hunt, toured last year with Su Hart and the Palpitations. He enjoyed the experience so much he formed a band of his own and is coming back in November, with Ed Boyd (formerly with Flook) on guitar, Rex Preston on mandolin, Josh Clark on bodran and Gina Griffin on fiddle and vocals.

Strange goings on with Villages in Action

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There are traditional stories and music plucked from The Magical Christmas Tree in December and classical duo ‘Hoot’ with harp and flute played by Emma Wilkins and Helen McLeod, rising stars from the Live Music Now!’s stable of young, award-winning talent. And with two triumphant sell-out performances last year, Umdomo Wesizwe, a 10-piece outfit from South Africa, will be returning to Devon in the autumn for just two more precious dates.

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

Villages in Action’s local volunteer promoters are anxiously waiting to see which acts, from the 32 on offer, they have been allocated. Director Roger Werner and I juggle the requests over June and July for dates beginning September through to May next year. In all there will be 130 events spread across Devon, so that wherever you live you may be lucky to have an exciting performance in your village or very nearby.

The new programme will be out at the end of August with full details of performers and venues.

It will be available from libraries, local council offices, tourist information centres or direct from Villages in Action - email admin@villagesinaction. co.uk, or call 01363 773660.

Umdomo Wesiswe, also back again next season

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

local people local events local food local health local environment Do you have healing hands?

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one weekend a month part-time study • Thorough Clinical Shiatsu Training • Subtle & Physical Anatomy • Food Energetics • Business Skills

Introductory Shiatsu Courses

Buckyette Farm, Totnes TQ9 6ND

Tel 01803 762593

Email: info@devonshiatsu.co.uk

Off to see The Wizard?

INSTEAD of struggling through life, we should be having a joyous roller coaster adventure for seven, eight, or even more decades. That’s the view of life guidance instructor Trevor Emdon, otherwise known as The Wizard of Wisdom.

As a former psychiatric nurse, Trevor learned early in life that we are all fed defeatist talk, which prevents us achieving our dreams.

“You’re told certain things are impossible, unrealistic, too expensive, difficult and so on,” says Trevor. “By the time you’re grown up you probably have a low-ish self-image and you’ve limited your beliefs about what you are capable of to a very narrow band.

“My own dream is to help people to achieve theirs - I really can’t think of anything better or more satisfying to do than that!”

Trevor has used NLP, hypnotherapy, Gestalt therapy, Brief Therapy and Family Therapy to put together a programme he calls Wizard of Wisdom Life Guidance.

Call him on 01392 861134, or visit www.wizardofwisdom.com.

two inspiring days of learning and experiencing Shiatsu Next: 29 & 30 August ‘09

also post graduate courses for Continuing Professional Development

Integrated Acupuncturist Healer Mark Edlund-Plater M.B.Ac/C

Donations in Totnes (Tues) Introductory offers in Torquay

On screen and bike

TWO Transition Totnes events in September provide an introduction to the whole Transition movement and a chance to get behind one of its initiatives.

The Transition Movie tells the amazing story of how a small community-focussed Totnes initiative to relocalise in the face of peak oil and climate change has grown into a worldwide movement.

See it at the Barn cinema in Dartington on Wednesday, September 9, at 8pm.

And on Tuesday, September 22, at 4pm, you can take part in a TTT sponsored bike ride to celebrate Europe’s Car Free Day. Visit the TTT website, totnes.transitionnetwork.org, or call TTT on 01803 867358 for details.

The picture shows June’s TTT Garden Crawl around members’ veg gardens in Totnes.

Shiatsu Therapy

Next Foundation Year: Sept ‘09

IF you’ve always been tempted by community living but never managed to make it happen (maybe you didn’t want to move away from Devon, or you always just missed the all-too-rare vacancies), take note.

Bowden House Community, just outside Totnes, have asked us to mention that they are looking for people to join.

The community was born in February 2005 and there are now 20 adults and 10 children living in separate dwellings but in a shared culture on the 10-acre estate of the Grade I listed Bowden House.

Just what Bowden culture is can be hard to pin down, but they sing together, host events, meditate, work, grow their own food, and share a weekly meal and celebrations. They also have strong links with Transition Town Totnes – and host the excellent Acoustic Haven musical evenings.

At the time of writing, there is one (possibly two) two-bedroomed flat in the converted coach-house and possibly one small cottage for sale on 999-year leases (at market value). The focus is on community living rather than eco-housing, so the accommodation will be sold to those who make it through the membership process.

See the website (www.bowdenhouse.co.uk) to find out more and get in touch by email - info@bowdenhouse.co.uk.

Explore your potential 3 Year Professional Clinical Training

01803 862803 0780 4661 078 mark.edlundplater@googlemail.com

Rape & Sexual Abuse Helpline

Helpline hours: Tues, Wed, Thurs, 7pm -10pm The service we provide is confidential, anonymous and most importantly, a ‘listening’ service. Call us free on

Volunteers needed

Your call is treated in the strictest confidence

• Can you spare two evenings a month?

0808 800 0188

• Help to make a difference

• Full training and on-going support

• Exeter based charity covering Devon To volunteer call 01392 254575

www.therapeandsexualabusehelpline.co.uk

A taste of Iron THE Iron Mill Institute is offering taster days for anyone thinking of taking up one of its courses. The Institute, based in Exeter, has a range of courses starting in September in the fields of counselling, psychotherapy, supervision, coaching and dramatherapy.

Most programmes start from an introductory course and can progress up to Masters level. They also have a rich and varied continuing professional development programme (CPD) available to the qualified professional or for those just wanting to sample what they offer.

The Iron Mill Institute has been established for nearly 30 years and operates in partnership with Strode College of Further Education and the University of Worcester. Call 01392 219200 or visit www.ironmill.info.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

11

local people local events local food local health local environment Art of recycling SEVEN South West textile artists are coming together for Recycling with Attitude, an exhibition of contemporary craft and design, at Killerton House in Broadclyst, near Exeter.

www.holistic-cooking.co.uk

www.totnesnappycompany.co.uk

The HOLISTIC cooking

SCHOOL

THE place to learn how to eat for health Fundamentals of Healthy Eating

(workshop & cooking classes)

LEARN a traditional skill, make something that will last a lifetime and help to keep a traditional craft alive – that’s quite a weekend.

John Hagger is a Totnes-based third generation leatherworker, who trained as a saddler and bridlemaker in Walsall and now runs courses and makes fine leather goods (editor Foster Is still going on about his belt, made from cowhide produced at a Colyton tannery, the last in the country to specialise in oak bark tanning).

From September 5-20, 11am-4.30pm each day (closed Tuesdays), you’ll find customised cardigans, felt art, funky woolly teapots, textile-covered books, bags, framed pieces and more.

National Trust entrance fees apply.

John has two types of two-day courses coming up.

Visit www.nationaltrust. org.uk/killerton.

Call John on 01803 866257, or 07738 634136, or visit www.dartvalleyleatherworkshop.co.uk.

Basic Leatherwork Skills teaches you how to make belts, pouches and bags in the old way, using traditional hand tools and naturally tanned leather, over the weekends of July 11/12, or Sept 26-27.

On his Leather Tanning course, you can help transform a raw deerskin into leather and then create something to use and treasure for a lifetime. Both courses cost £95/£75, plus £25 materials, and are held in Totnes.

12 & 13 Sept

Eating with Awareness Workshop Frid 25 Sept Healing Body, Heart & Relationships 14 & 15 Oct Workshop Looking After Your Health 24 to 28 Nov

www.holistic-cooking.co.uk

Tel. 01803 762598 info@holistic-cooking.co.uk

thebarefootdoctor Pain-free Acupuncture Suitable for all ages and conditions from infants to the elderly

Treatments are all free of charge All donations are gratefully received

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MEMBER OF THE BRITISH ACUPUNCTURE COUNCIL

12

Somewhere to hide

A right to be happy

WITH yet more dramatic changes to the education system in the pipeline, this time giving power and authority back to the schools and teachers (now there’s a revolutionary approach), probably the only thing everyone involved can agree on is that children are individuals.

“As well as the obvious core subjects, all our pupils also do French and Spanish, and some do Latin too,” says Mr Home.

In fact, those 40 children, aged between 5-13, make up the entire school, so the individual curriculum theory is actually very workable.

pupils graduate.

But there are no computers.

“They all have computers at home and can teach me how to use mine,” says Mr Home. “But in school, And at Bendarroch School, in children need to look at people, not Aylesbeare near Exeter, it’s a principle screens – here they are encouraged that shapes everything they do. to listen and think and interact.

These are real lifeskills.”

“There is no such person as the standardised child,” says And their approach clearly works headteacher Nigel Home. Or, as a because academic achievement recent Ofsted inspector remarked, at the school is high and frequently “I know just how to define commented on positively by Bendarroch – it’s 40 different staff at other establishments, schools for 40 different children…” like Exeter School, to which many

But while the school lives by a philosophy that “every child has a right to be happy and to be safe at school,” and they attach great importance to adventurous play (children often go home covered in mud having played in the stream and built camps during break), Bendarroch is actually quite traditional in its teaching methods.

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

Find out more on 01395 233553, or visit www.bendarroch.co.uk.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Position of trust THE whole transition/carbon action movement does a great job of raising people’s awareness of climate change, the oil crisis and The Need For Change.

But perhaps even more dramatic, and certainly hugely encouraging, are their practical projects which are having a real impact on communities.

Bovey Climate Action (BCA) is a case in point. Set up just two-and-a-half years ago (after a showing of The Inconvenient Truth), they now have more than 300 members, 50 of whom are regularly active.

We’ll be keeping up to date over the coming issues, but we did want to look at one of their projects, which is particularly inspiring.

The Bovey Community Garden is the only scheme of its type run in conjunction with the National Trust (NT) and is situated in the wonderful walled garden at Parke House on the edge of Bovey Tracey. Dartmoor National Park has grant-aided the project, and there’s a garden coordinator, Gail Banham, who has done a great job getting it going and guiding the garden’s development.

It started on March 1 and the Community Gardeners – you don’t have to be a member of the BCA or NT to join – are already eating fresh, local and organic veg. Members are simply ‘paid’ in tokens for the work they do on the plot – and then exchange the tokens for produce. How simple and wonderful is that?

(Okay, not objective reporting, but we are REALLY impressed by this scheme) It’s early days and they’re feeling their way, says BCA chair Audrey Compton (they’re still fine-tuning the way they adjust the values of crops, for example), but it’s running and it’s working.

“Working on the community garden makes you feel good about life,” says Audrey. “It’s better than shopping.” In so many ways, Audrey.

Find out more about BCA (and how to join – you don’t have to be a Boveyan) at www.boveyclimateaction.org.uk, or call them on 0845 478 6311.

www.macroschool.co.uk

local people local events local food local health local environment international

MACROBIOTIC school

Professional Training 2 years part-time to become a

Macrobiotic Cook & Health Advisor

3 years part-time to become a

Macrobiotic Dietary & Life Counsellor

Next intake: December 2009 Tel. 01803 762598 info@macroschool.co.uk

Property - to sell YOUR house in reconnect call 01392 346342

Blacksmith’sCottage

FOR SALE - £299,000 Pretty stone cottage in hamlet 10 minutes from Totnes.

Three bedrooms plus office, two bathrooms, wood burner in stone fireplace, garden and valley views.

Also looking to buy (around £250k) or rent in Broadhempston Call Martin or Jenny on 01803 732973 martinfoster@eclipse.co.uk

Know beyond your limitations COMMUNICATING effectively and dealing with interpersonal relationships is the key to a positive emotional state, according to Refocus lead trainer Andrew Staniford.

“Happiness is not expensive, it is a state of mind,” says Andrew, who is qualified in NLP, hypnotherapy and Reiki.

With 25 years of experience in training others in how to excel, Andrew now runs courses at Woolsgrove Court, near Crediton.

“Our day-to-day lives are influenced by our emotional state,” he says. “And incredibly, we can move from a negative emotional state to a positive one and back again almost instantaneously.

“The trigger for such an abrupt shift is other people’s actions. Imagine being able to understand why you feel limited and then remove the limitations.”

Visit www.refocus-southwest.com.”

Close to the EDGE

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

There are also whispers of a possible Acoustic Haven summer weekend – email Doug for details: dougkingsmith@yahoo.co.uk

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For those who don’t know it, Acoustic Haven is an evening of music (usually four or five singer/sonwriters/bands and Djs), plus log fires, organic soup, cakes, chai, lots of cushions and a lovely relaxed atmosphere.

Find out more at www.bowdenhouse.co.uk or join the Acoustic Haven Facebook page.

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ACOUSTIC Haven at Bowden House, Totnes, is back in September after a summer break.

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Return of the Haven

HEATHERCOMBE is a wooded valley, 1,000 feet up on Dartmoor, run by a trust with a centre to allow a wide range of people access to this unique landscape.

From September 5-27, as part of Devon Open Studios, the Heathercombe Fairy Wood will be home to EDGE, a sculpture trail based on the permaculture principle of ‘increasing edge.’

The Sculpture Trail will represent work from professional artists and community groups including the Bovey Tracey Youth Café, Broadclyst Primary School and Torbay Youth Arts Award Project.

The opening ceremony, at 11.30am on Saturday, September 5, will also be a networking and information-sharing event, with representatives from local climate action groups, and writer Satish Kumar will speak at 2pm.

Throughout the opening day there will be performances inspired by the RE O O Fairy Wood site from MED Theatre and Coombeshead College Youth Theatre. www.heathercombe.com.

From boat to belly WITH surely one of the best festival names around, Fishstock in Brixham combines seafood and music.

“From boat to belly,” say the organisers, “this event is a delight for all, with cooking demonstrations, classes, and an acoustic musical line-up, entertainment while you munch!”

Proceeds go to the Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen Charity. Call 01752 690950, email mail@ fishstockbrixham. co.uk, or visit www. fishstockbrixham.co.uk.

Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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local people local events local food local health local environment

OUR Going Out Diary is the most comprehensive guide to everything interesting in reconnectland – and it’s FREE! So, to get your event in the next Diary (out end of September, covering October and November), email us asap editor@reconnectonline.co.uk or call 01392 346204.

All events are susceptible to change, cancellation, postponement or falling foul of the powerful energetic force sometimes known as ‘human error’, so do please check with the organisers before dreaming up elaborate excuses for throwing a sicky.

And if you want to publicise, or attend, a course or workshop, check out The Guide in this issue, or get in touch by email adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk or phone 01392 346342.

AUGUST

SATURDAY 1

SUNDAY 9

SATURDAY 15

All month.

Stoke Gabriel Carnival Parade, 6.30pm, 01803 782260, www.stokegabriel.co.uk

Make and bake a pizza in cob, Underwood Discovery Centre, Higher Farm, Beeson, 01803 861384, www. southdevonaonb.org.uk

Plymouth Flavour Fest, food and drink events, The Piazza, Armada Way, www. plymouth.gov.uk/ flavourfest Diggin It open day, gardening acitivities for all, free, Penlee Valley Allotments, Plymouth, 1-5pm, www.digginit.org.uk Food Festival run by Axminster Awareness Centre, Axminster Guildhall, 10.30am4.30pm, www. awarenessfestivals.org Until Saturday 22 Affordable Art Show in aid of Axminster Awareness Centre, Trinity House Homewares Centre, Axminster, www. awarenessfestivals.org Open day at Lupton House community project, Brixham, 11am-7pm, £2, 0778 2503711, www.luptontrust.org

Summer Exhibition

by Devon Guild of Craftsmen makers. at Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey, 10am-5.30pm, seven days a week.

Free. 01626 832223 devonguild@crafts. org.uk Reflections on Water, exhibition at Centre for Contemporary Art and the Natural World, free, Haldon Forest Park, Exeter, 01392 832277, www.ccanw.co.uk Until Monday 3 Devon Felt Makers, window display as part of Devon Crafted Clothes, Bogan House, High Street, Totnes, 01803 862857

MONDAY 3 Until Monday 17, Embroiderers, window display as part of Devon Crafted Clothes, Bogan House, High Street, Totnes, 01803 862857 TUESDAY 4 Until Sunday 16, Emma Carter & Nicky Stevenson, visual poets, art exhibition, 10am - 5pm, House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 01548 854708, www. harbourhouse.org.uk WEDNESDAY 5

Antony Gormley’s Field for the British Isles, exhibition, Torre Abbey, Torquay, www. torre-abbey.org.uk

Family bread making, 7-12 yearolds, Ashprington village hall, 01803 861384, www. southdevonaonb.org.uk Kid’s Nature Photography, meet Gamekeeper’s Cottage, Cockington Country Park, 1.304pm, £2.50, book on 01803 606035, www. countryside-trust.org.uk

Until Saturday 29

THURSDAY 6

Until Friday 7 Sidmouth folk festival, venues across town, www. sidmouthfolkweek.co.uk Until Sunday 23

Dartington International Summer School, courses and concerts, www.dartington.org/ summer-school Until Sunday 30 Token Values, collaborative exhibition by the Devon Guild of Craftsmen and Royal Albert Memorial Museum, at Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey, 10am-5.30pm, seven days a week. Free.

01626 832223 www. devonguild@ crafts.org.uk

14

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Cockington Court, Cockington, Torquay, 01803 606035, www. countryside-trust.org.uk FRIDAY 7 Berry Head Bat Walk, meet Berry Head NNR, Brixham, 7.30pm, £3.50, book on 01803 606035 SATURDAY 8 Colours to dye for, wool dying workshop, Washbrook Farm, Kingsbridge, 2pm, £4, book on 01548 856659

MONDAY 10 Until Friday 14, Summer Theatre Workshops, 8-13year-olds, £30 for the week, The Flavel, Dartmouth, www.theflavel.org.uk TUESDAY 11 British Fireworks Championships, Plymouth Hoe/ Sound, www.plymouth summerfestival.com Light up the Forts, storytelling event for 6-12 year-olds, Berry Head National Nature Reserve, Brixham, 6-9.30pm, £5, 01803 606035 to book WEDNESDAY 12 Mowgli Stories, Cockington Court, Cockington, Torquay, 01803 606035, www. countryside-trust.org.uk British Fireworks Championships, Plymouoth Hoe/Plouth Sound, www.plymouth summerfestival.com FRIDAY 14 Until Sunday 16, Learn Leatherwork Weekend with John Hagger, The Cauldron, Bowden House, Totnes, 07849 072388, ladi. green@yahoo.com Until Sunday 23 Plymouth Gay Pride Festival, www. plymouthprideevent. org.uk Plymouth Flavour Fest, food and drink events, The Piazza, Armada Way, www. plymouthprideevent. org.uk

SUNDAY 16 Plymouth Flavour Fest, food and drink events, The Piazza, Armada Way, www.plymouth.gov.uk/ flavourfest Family Fun Day, in aid of Axminster Awareness Centre, The Showground, Trafalgar Way, Axminster, 2pm, www. awarenessfestivals.org MONDAY 17 Until Monday 31 Eco Fashion, window display as part of Devon Crafted Clothes, Bogan House, High Street, Totnes, 01803 862857 TUESDAY 18 How your mind can heal your body, talk

by Dr David Hamilton at OneVision, St David’s Church, Exeter, www. onevisionfoundation. com

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

Until Sunday 23, From Bantham to The Bay of Bengal, Arthur Glendinning, 10am - 5pm, exhibition at Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 01548 854708, www. harbourhouse.org.uk FRIDAY 21 Beautiful Days Festival, Escot Park, Ottery St Mary, www. beautifuldays.org Marine Festival at Wembury Marine Centre, free, www. southdevonaonb.org.uk Fashion Show and Auction in aid of Axminster Awareness Centre, Axminster Guildhall, 7.30pm, £5, www.awareness festivals.org SATURDAY 22 Beautiful Days Festival, Escot Park, Ottery St Mary, www.beautifuldays.org Celebrate Start Bay, Slapton, arts, workshops, entertainment, 0845 3889147, www.slaptonline.org Barn Dance in aid of Axminster Awareness Centre, Axminster Guildhall, 8 ‘til late, £5, www.awareness festivals.org Rockpool Ramble, Shoalstone Beach, Brixham, 1-3.30pm, £3.50/£2.50, www. countryside-trust.org.uk SUNDAY 23 Beautiful Days Festival, Escot Park, Ottery St Mary, www. beautifuldays.org Teranga 3, Torbay’s Multicultural and Diversity Festival, Oldway Mansion, Paignton, 11am – 5.00pm, free admission, www.torbay.gov.uk Sonic Photo Experiments in Sacred Spaces, slideshow/talk by Lorna Heath and Dean Carter, Bogan House, High Street, Totnes, 7.30pm, £5, 01803 868744 Rockpool Ramble, The Seashore Centre, Goodrington Sands, Paignton, 1.30-3.30pm, £3.50/£2.50, www. countryside-trust.org.uk

MONDAY 24 Children’s Treasure Hunt, Ridge Hill community orchard, Dartmouth, walking bus from Flavel at 1.30pm, £2, ww.theflavel.org.uk TUESDAY 25 Labyrinth on the Sand, family activity, Bantham Beach, 2.30pm, £4 and £2, www.southdevonaonb. org.uk Until Sunday 6, Exhibition of Panoramic Photographs: Home and Away, photographic exhibition

by Mick Allen, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 01548 854708, www. harbourhouse.org.uk WEDNESDAY 26 Introductory talk on Vipassana Meditation, free, Exeter Phoenix, 7.30-9.00pm, 01392 668908.

FRIDAY 28 Deadly Baggage, musical thriller by Playback Youth Theatre, 8pm Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080, www. playbackyouththeatre. org Chanting in tradition of Kundalini yoga, Ashburton (venue tbc), 7-9pm, 01364 642098/ 07540 832837, www.anahata.org.uk SUNDAY 30 Story telling at Family Sunday, 12-12.30pm, 0-5 years, free, no need to book, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080 Live music at Family Sunday, 12–4pm, free, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080 Art drop-in at Family Sunday, any time between 1-4pm, all ages, £2, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www.exeterphoenix.org. uk, 01392 667080 MONDAY 31 Until Monday 7, Embroiderers, window display as part of Devon Crafted Clothes, Bogan House, High Street, Totnes, 01803 862857

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

local people local events local food local health local environment

Reflections on Water, exhibition at Centre for Contemporary Art and the Natural World, free, Haldon Forest Park, Exeter, 01392 832277, www.ccanw.co.uk

TUESDAY 1 Hosted by Alice and Peter Oswald, music and poetry, 7.30pm, Sharpham Centre, 01803 732799, www.sharphamtrust.org fRIDAY 4 Thank flavel it’s friday, comedy night with Trevor Lock and Dave Twentyman, £12, www.theflavel.org.uk Siga La Salsa, Latin Dance Music, 8-11pm, £8, part of Totnes Festival, Royal Seven Stars Hotel, Fore Street, Totnes, 01803 862587 SATURDAY 5 Until Sunday 20, Recycling with attitude, exhibition of contemporary craft and design, Killerton (National Trust), Broadclyst, Exeter, 11am - 4.30pm, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ killerton Until Sunday 27, The Edge, arts event, High Heathercombe, Dartmoor National Park, www.heathercombe.com The Oxford Waits: Love’s Holiday, early/folk music, part of Totnes Festival, 7.30-9.30pm, St Mary’s Church, High Street, Totnes, £10/5, 01803 849414, www. totnesearlymusic.org.uk The Oysterfest, food and music, The Waterfront, Grand Parade, Plymouth, 12noon-8.30pm, free, www.thewaterfront. org.uk Rathayatra, the Hindu Chariot Festival, The Piazza and City Centre, Plymouth, 10am

MONDAY 7 Mark Thomas: People’s manifesto, politicomedy, 8pm, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. markthomasinfo.com, www.exeterphoenix.org. uk, 01392 667080 UNTIL MONDAY 22 Sourced, spun and woven in Devon, window display as part of Devon Crafted Clothes, Bogan House, High Street, Totnes, 01803 862857 TUESDAY 8 Until Sunday 13 The Travelling Painter, exhibition by local artists, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10am5pm, , 01548 854708, www.harbourhouse. org.uk WEDNESDAY 9 The Transition Movie, Barn cinema, Dartington, 8pm, totnes. transitionnetwork.org THURSDAY 10 Shoot, Totnes Short Film Festival, part of Totnes Festival, 7.30pm, The Barrel House, 59A High Street, Totnes, £2.50, www.myspace. com/thebarrelhouse SATURDAY 12 Sharpham Estate

by Night, family event, Sharpham Estate, £6 and £3, 01803 732799, www. sharphamtrust.org

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Wildlife Mapping, Beenleigh Meadows Farm, Harberton, Totnes, 10am-4pm, 01803 865631, www. raise-education.co.uk Heritage Open Day at Totnes Castle, part of Totnes Festival, 10.30am-4.30pm, free, 01803 864406 SUNDAY 13 Torbay Symphony Orchestra concert, Totnes Civic Hall, part of Totnes Festival, 7.30-10pm, £10/£5, 01548 810146, www. torbaysymphony.org Autumn Berry Gathering, guided walk, Follaton Arboretum, joint Trees for Health and Earthlinks event, part of Totnes Festival, 10am-4pm, 01803 865491/07910 201155, www. treesforhealth.org, www.earthlinksall.com TUESDAY 15 Until Sunday 27 Raw landscape, exhibition by artists Mike Glanville & Anita Reynolds with the Moor Poets, Harbour House gallery, Kingsbridge, www.harbourhouse. org.uk The Ugly Duckling – refining male sexuality, talk by Nick Clements at OneVision, St David’s Church, Exeter, www. onevisionfoundation. com WEDNESDAY 16 Wondermentalist presents Taking The Mic, poetry and humour, 8pm, free in café bar, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www.exeterphoenix.org. uk, 01392 667080 fRIDAY 18 Navratri, Indian festival, The Guildhall, Plymouth, 10am Acoustica, festival of Exeter’s acoustic music, www.acousticafestival. net, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080

SATURDAY 19 Acoustica, festival of Exeter’s acoustic music, www.acousticafestival. net, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080 Wildlife Mapping, focus on fungi, birdlife and mammals, Beenleigh Meadows Farm, Harberton, Totnes, £10/£5, 01803 865631, www. raise-education.co.uk SUNDAY 20

Story telling, 0-5-year-olds, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter, free, 12–12.30pm, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080 Live music, Café Bar, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter, free, 12.30–4pm, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080 Art drop-in, all ages, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter, £2, 1-4pm, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080

MONDAY 28 The Shakespeare Schools festival, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter, 7pm, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080 TUESDAY 29 The Shakespeare Schools festival, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, Exeter, 7pm, www.exeterphoenix.org. uk, 01392 RE O O 667080

r

NLINE

Until Sunday 13, Summer Exhibition,

by Devon Guild of Craftsmen makers, at Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey, 10am-5.30pm, seven days a week.

Free. 01626 832223 devonguild@crafts. org.uk

SUNDAY 6 Dartington Morris Men, Celebration of Dance, part of Totnes Festival, Totnes Civic Square (in Civic Hall if wet), Totnes, 11am-1pm, 01548 550004, www. dartingtonmorrismen. org.uk.

Sound - Space Silence, concert of news and improvised music, part of Totnes Festival, St Mary’s Church, Totnes High Street, Totnes, 7.30-9.30pm, £5, 01803 867371.

Brixham Seafood & Music festival, in aid of Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen Charity, 01752 690950, www. fishstockbrixham.co.uk

M AD

ALL MONTH

Kingsbridge Show, traditional agricultural show, start 9am, off the A381, www. kingsbridgeshow.co.uk

RE

SEPTEMBER

Acoustica, festival of Exeter’s acoustic music, www.acousticafestival. net, Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080 TUESDAY 22 Sponsored TTT bike ride to celebrate Europe’s Car Free Day, Starting points tbc, 4pm, 07922 411266, totnes.transitionnetwork. org WEDNESDAY 23 The hidden promise of our dark age – talk by Joanna Macy, St John’s Church, Bridgetown, Totnes, 8pm THURSDAY 24 Uncut Poets with Damian furniss, 7.30pm, £5 (£3), Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk, 01392 667080. To read - 07879 888319. fRIDAY 25 Learn Leatherwork Weekend with John Hagger, The Cauldron, Bowden House, Totnes, 07849 072388, ladi. green@yahoo.com

Mike Glanville

Harbour views TORBAY artists Emma Carter and Nicky Stevenson bring a splash of colour to Harbour House gallery in Kingsbridge for the holiday season.

Visual Poets features “quirky, colourful paintings and reproductions of sealife contrasted with calm, restful seascapes painted in oils” from August 4-16.

This summer Nicky also celebrates the first anniversary of The Slack Stevenson Gallery, which she runs with photographer Chris Slack in Brixham.

Things take a slightly moodier turn from September 15-27, when Mike Glanville and Anita Reynolds (a favourite of editor Foster’s) collaborate with the Moor Poets to stage Raw Landscape, featuring painting, printmaking, mixed media and poetry readings.

More on these and other exhibitions at Harbour House at www.harbourhouse.org.uk.

SATURDAY 26 fungal foray and fry Up, Beenleigh Meadows Farm, Totnes, 11am, £10 and £5, 01803 865631, www. raise-education.co.uk SUNDAY 27 Tapestry of Light, slideshow/talk by postquantum physicist Grahame Blackwell, Bogan House, High Street, Totnes, 7.30pm, £5, 01803 868744

Anita Reynolds

Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

15

local people local events local food local health local environment Ethical financial adviser Robin Currie explains how sometimes things can be made so safe that they just don’t work any more. It’s just the bit about cycling to the gym we don’t believe…

ThErE seems to be a curious way that the brain works sometimes. Especially about recognising patterns.

You may know that I’ve been working as an independent financial adviser for nearly twenty years, but it was only when I was cycling to the gym the other week that I noticed something about the way that the financial sector currently operates.

As I was peddling up the hill, I was clear that my tyres were too flat and that I had to put in too much energy to achieve a simple outcome i.e. getting to the gym. But when I tried to pump them up I couldn’t do it because the valve caps were on so tight that I couldn’t undo them. Not even using a pair of pliers. So I couldn’t achieve what I wanted because the safety devices were so tight.

In the end I had to shatter the caps so that I could do what was necessary. Which reminded me of what seems to be happening in the financial market.

Now this is not intended to be a criticism of the Financial Services Authority (FSA). While I have a number of issues about them (as do many IFAs), they represent the safety caps and their intentions are positive, even if they’re not terribly realistic.

But this is happening in many areas of society.

There seems to be an unfortunate assumption at the top that writing a detailed report and passing a meticulous act will make a difference in how things actually operate. Unfortunately this doesn’t work unless you are in communication with the people you’re trying to affect.

Interestingly, much of the increasing bureaucracy seems to be a response to ‘ambulance chasers’.

Do you know about them? They originated in the States and are lawyers who offer to act on behalf of people with potential complaints. And instead of charging a fee they will take a proportion of any compensation which the ‘victim’ will receive – up to 50% in many cases.

This sounds like quite a good idea if it means that people who have been ‘done over’ get to be recompensed without having to pay for professional support. Although, as you will appreciate, the main reason that the lawyers are acting in this way isn’t to look after their clients. It’s so that they can get paid themselves.

So they’re not trying to be realistic or to tell the truth. They’re trying to blow up an incident in as negative a way as possible. Because the worse they can make it look the more compensation will be awarded and, therefore, the more they’ll get paid. Not unlike the media, you’ll notice.

Now, to be fair, there have been a number of incidents in the financial market over the last thirty or so years which have had a highly dodgy effect on clients. Things like endowment policies, contracting out of the SErPs and, probably the worst, being advised to transfer out of superannuation pensions (which have a guaranteed income) and into ‘money-purchase’ schemes which depend on the performance of the market.

And one of the main reasons for this happening was ideology, a positive perception of the ‘free market’ by the then government. For example, contracting out of SErPs was a policy devised by the Thatcher administration but carried out by the financial sector. But when the market dropped and it became clear that it wasn’t a good idea, a huge number of formal complaints were made – but against the people who’d manifested the policy rather than the ones who’d created it.

Which is one of the reasons why the safety caps started to be tightened up.

So my point is that a good financial adviser should be someone who is committed to establishing your situation and your personal criteria – including your ethics and beliefs.

Things that you want to support and areas which you want to avoid. As a result we will know who you are and understand the options and the implications. So you should be able to trust us rather than having to rely on the paperwork and signing a document full of sub-paragraphs which you are unlikely to read and understand.

Which is a way of saying, if you need financial support and advice, make sure that your adviser is concentrating on looking after you, not on themselves. And, if you think that I would qualify, feel free to give me a call.

(Incidentally, to make sure that this article doesn’t contravene the Financial Services Act, please note that this is just my personal view…)

I have a French client who says that she is perversely proud of her government’s bureaucracy which, she claims, is the most appalling in the world. Which is one of the reasons that she doesn’t live there. But she thinks that we are aspiring to beat them in certain areas and may be getting close. regulations and paperwork around UK financial services have not doubled or even trebled in the last ten years. If only. They’ve increased by something like five hundred percent. And there seems to an assumption, because there are detailed paragraphs and sub-paragraph in the contract, that clients will read them in principle before signing up.

But this simply doesn’t happen. It’s like receiving an e-mail from a company which has about twelve lines of garbage at the bottom saying that they are not responsible for hacking.

Does anyone read that? I rather doubt it.

Robin Currie is an Independent Financial Adviser and a specialist in green, ethically-screened and environmentally-sensitive funds.

For an appointment, call Robin direct on 01392-411630 or e-mail robin.currie@barchestergreen.co.uk.

Details about the workshop Making Friends With Money are available at www.makingfriendswithmoney.co.uk or by calling Sharn Kern on 01392-346336

ISLE OF MAN Sept 12th (Day 1) & Oct 3rd (Day 2) • EXETER Oct 11th (Day 1) & Nov 1st (Day 2) w w w. m a k i n g f r i e n d s w i t h m o n e y. c o . u k 16

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local people local events local food local health local environment

the GUIDE

Chiropractic

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Clinics in Totnes, Dartmouth and Torbay. t: 01803 857037 www.sarahhorswell.co.uk Birthing BIRTH PREPARATION SESSIONS. Preparing mind, body, emotions, environment and spirit for birth because birth can’t be repeated.

Carmella B’Hahn. 01803 867005. carmella@ SolaceAlchemy.com Bowen Technique

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Dr Claire Ryan Bsc Hons Chiro Ola Chiropractic, 5a Fore St, Totnes t: 07813200361 www.totneschiropractic.co.uk Counselling TRANSFORMATIONAL COUNSELLING. Carmella B’Hahn (author: Benjaya’s Gifts/Mourning Has Broken) supports you to use adversity and grief as fuel for transformation. 01803 867005. carmella@ SolaceAlchemy.com www.SolaceAlchemy.com

Over 32 years’ experience - offers confidential therapeutic counselling for individuals and couples. www.caseconfidential.com

PAT HOARE. DIP. COUNS. B.A.C.P. ACCREDITED COUNSELLOR AND SUPERVISOR Email: pat@pathoare.eclipse.co.uk

FIND happiness again. With the help of my life-balancing system - energy medicine, transmission healing and channeled dialogue.

Only then can your life-force restore your health.

Ursula Athene 01803 840 280 / 07944319228 FREE drop-in healing at Discovery.

Market Forum, Market Street, Torquay, first Wednesday of each month. For further information call 01803 556 738.

Group facilitator, Louise Hay Trainer, Inner-Child work Family/Sex Therapy.

Critical Incident Debriefing.

G.H.R. Accredited Hypnotherapist.

Analytical Therapy for phobias, emotional difficulties, stress etc.

Suggestion Therapy to stop smoking, for weight control, nail biting, confidence, study, driving tests etc.

Free 20-minute consultation: Telephone 01392 410090 for appointments.

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MEN POTENCY, POWER, POTENTIAL Sept 26th / 27th, Totnes

COUPLES Specialist in children’s Bowen: a gentle complementary therapy

07949 579160

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Cellular Healing

[ddihiZeh d[ i]Z hdja 6 lZZ` adc\ igV^c^c\ XdjghZ [dg i]dhZ l^h]^c\ id jhZ igVch[dgbVi^dcVa XZaajaVg ]ZVa^c\ [dg i]ZbhZakZh VcY di]Zgh# DXidWZg )i] id &%i]! Hdji] 9Zkdc# 8djghZ [VX^a^iVidg! EVig^X^V 6c\dkZ! l]d ]Vh WZZc V igV^cZg d[ i]^h bZi]dY d[ ]ZVa^c\ [dg Ò[iZZc nZVgh VcY ldg`h ^ciZgcVi^dcVaan# I]^h XdjghZ ^h XZgi^ÒZY Wn CZl <V^V CZildg` VcY VeegdkZY Wn I]Z 8dbeaZbZciVgn I]ZgVe^hih 6hhdX^Vi^dc# I]Z Xdhi d[ i]^h h^m"YVn XdjghZ ^h '*%# ;dg bdgZ ^c[dgbVi^dc g^c\ EVig^X^V dc %&-%( '%(,'& dg ZbV^a cZl\V^V#cZildg`5k^g\^c#cZi lll#cZl\V^VcZi#Xd#j`

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THE ADVENTURE OF INTIMACY Oct 9th /11th, Totnes to find out more call us on (01803) 663413, or visit us at

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a social movement honouring the feminine and the masculine

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TRANSFORMATIONAL THEATRE ARCHETYPAL SOUL JOURNEYS INNER ADVENTURES

Transformational Breathwork, Mythology, shamanic journeying, ritual drama and deep exploration of the psyche through archetypes

Intro 1 Day Wkshops Bournemouth – Few places left on Autumn 2009

Learn to teach Drama, Dance and Voice as Therapy Book Now for 10 day International Training/ Holiday in Cyprus – Foundation Module Spring 2010

Contact : 01202 467789 www.doorways2power.co.uk IT training ADOBE Dreamweaver, InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator training in the South West.

Are you a Web designer, graphic designer, artist, publisher or other creative and want to improve your job prospects or career status? I am an Adobe certified instructor and offer tailor-made courses in the Adobe Creative Suite. Highly competitive rates, your place or mine. Mac or PC, beginner or advanced. Call or email for details. Paul F Adams. paul@pixelpainter.co.uk 07812203335

Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

17

local people local events local food local health local environment EFT continued

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BASIC LEATHERWORK SKILLS Using traditional hand tools and naturally tanned leather Discover how to make belts, pouches & bags in the old way.

Weekend course: ÂŁ95/ÂŁ75 plus materials (approx ÂŁ25) Sept 26-27, Nov 7-8 venue Totnes, Devon

LEATHER TANNING BY TRADITIONAL METHODS Transform a raw deer skin into leather then work with deer leather to create something you can use and treasure for a lifetime. urses in Traditional Weekend Leatherwork and Leather course ÂŁ95/ÂŁ75 plus ÂŁ25 materials Tanning August 15-16, October 3-4 venue Totnes, Devon For more information contact John Hagger Basic Leatherwork Skills using traditional hand tools and naturally leather Darttanned Valley Leather Workshop scover how to make belts, pouches and bags in the old way.07738 634136 01803 866257 weekend course ÂŁ95/ÂŁ75 plus materials (approx ÂŁ25) www.dartvalleyleatherworkshop.co.uk July 11-12, Sept 26-27 venue Totnes, Devon

.,0 s (YPNO s 2EIKI

REFOCUS wantsget youatoprospectus be all you canvisit be and theoffers an opportunity to enhance areas of your life you website www.lcch.co.uk wish to be more fulfilling.

You are entitled to a brighter future that is in harmony your beliefs Phone 01297with 20144 and reflects your true values. We fully support you in refocusing your future using NLP and Hypnotherapy.

Course Title: YOU + Dates: September 19th and 20th Location: WOOLSGROVE COURT, CREDITON Content: BUILDING personal & professional RELATIONSHIPS through communication This two day training course is designed specifically so you can unlock the secret for lasting relationships. To find out more visit www.refocus-southwest.com

ANDREW REFOCUS SOUTHWEST COM WWW REFOCUS SOUTHWEST COM

Leather Tanning by traditional methods

Qigong

NLP and Hypnotherapy

m a raw deer skin into leather then work with deer leather to create something you can use and treasure for a lifetime.

Weekend course ÂŁ95/ÂŁ75 plus ÂŁ25 materials August 15-16, October 3-4 venue Totnes, Devon

QIGONG WITH MASTER ZHIXING WANG. At Foxhole Gym, Dartington, South Devon September 26/27th. An excellent opportunity to study with an authentic Qigong Master. 0845 3305086 or www.qigong-southwest.co.uk.

For more information contact John Hagger art Valley Leather Workshop 01803 866257 07738 634136 www.dartvalleyleatherworkshop.co.uk

NLP and Ericksonian Hypnotherapy.

Effective and powerful way to stop smoking, assist weight loss, and resolve phobia and anxiety issues. Angela Avis 01404 813371 www.positive outcome therapy.co.uk

QIGONG FOR SELF HEALING. Weekly classes and Saturday workshops in Totnes and Exeter with Brad Richecoeur. Â 0845 3305086 or www.qigong-southwest.co.uk

To Advertise here call Pete on 01392 346342 or e-mail adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

Shiatsu

Harrington

Shiatsu... â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

The effortless way to feel better

increase your sense of well-being relieve backache and other aches and pains reduce stress sleep better feel calmer and more relaxed

Dip Shi. MRSS

Tel: 07515 864454

Ready to put some magic in your life? Keen to take your coaching, therapy or teaching to a new level?

TM

Our intensive NLP, Time Line Therapy and Hypnosis Practitioner Certification (seven days + pre-study) promises that and more.

See www.inspiringaction.co.uk or phone Erica on 01803 867209 for more details.

Emotional Freedom... from the roots

HEALTH

18

www.viridian-nutrition.com

Life Guidance

GREEN FUNERAL PLANNING A workshop with green fuse

Wendy Harrington

Viridian Nutrition, the leading brand of ethical vitamins.

Call 01327 878050 for a free catalogue & details of your nearest health store stockist.

www.harringtonhealth.co.uk

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

Past life regression therapy PAST-LIFE Journeys, Regression Therapy.

Life Between Lives with Maggie Salter, practices near Bovey and at the Arcturus Clinic, Totnes.Maggie@transformations.plus.com 01626 835115 Reiki REIKI Practitioner/Master/Teacher - East Devon Area. Reiki Treatments and Attunements.

Contact 01395 443888 or 07933 026950 or email hootonsreiki@hotmail.com.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

local people local events local food local health local environment Sound Therapy

Soundz Magic “ experience the beauty, bliss and power of Sound Healing” Gong/Sound Baths for Community Groups; Workshops and performances; Use Soundz Magic for a memorable Wedding, Funeral, Party or Conference!!!

Register online www.soundzmagic.co.uk Call Martyn 0800 955 3488 / 07980 747088

WORKSHOPS AND COURSES DIARY AUGUST EVERY TUESDAY Qigong at The Exeter Phoenix Centre with Brad Richecoeur, 5.30-7pm. 0845 3305086 www.qigong-southwest.co.uk.

EVERY FRIDAY Qigong at St Johns Church Hall, Totnes with Brad Richecoeur, 10-11.30am. 0845 3305086 www.qigong-southwest.co.uk.

Healing in Exeter Central Library with Exeter NFSH Healing Centre, 1-3pm, £5/£3 minimum contribution, 01626 867277 FORTNIGHTLY ON TUESDAYS Spiritual development group for men, Totnes area, free, Martin on 01803 864583.

SUNDAY 6 Felt making: Tea cosies with Geraldine Finnon, The Cauldron, Bowden House, Totnes, 07849 072388, or email ladi.green@yahoo.com MONDAY 3 - FRIDAY 7 Family Camp at Moretonhampstead, Dartmoor. Quality time for families to enjoy diverse outdoor activities. Mon 3pm – Fri 3pm. £335/£450/£565 family of 2/3/4. WildWise Events, 01803 868269, www.wildwise.co.uk THURSDAY 6 Soundz Magic Gong/Sound Bath workshop at Kanzeon, Exeter, 7.30-9.30pm. contact Martyn, 0800 955 3488, 07980 747088, book £8 FRIDAY 7 – SUNDAY 9 Prehistoric Weekend at Moretonhampstead, Dartmoor. Time-travel back a few thousand years to learn skills from our prehistoric ancestors. Fri 6pm – Sun 4pm. £185 adults, kids come free! WildWise Events, 01803 868269, www.wildwise.co.uk SATURDAY 8 The Singing Field – half-day voice workshop, 10.30-2pm, £25, Gavin on 01803 866138.

MONDAY 10 – THURSDAY 13 The Wild Ones (8-12yrs) Moretonhampstead, Dartmoor. As seen on ITV’s ‘Country Lives’, this residential camp for young people is a rare and exciting opportunity to learn and practise traditional, outdoor skills.

Mon 3pm – Thurs 2pm. £195. WildWise Events, 01803 868269, www.wildwise.co.uk

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

TAI CHI

Tai Chi and Qigong Classes, Workshops and Courses £3 Taster Sessions from 14th to 17th September including: Totnes, Kingsbridge, Kingsteignton and Newton Abbot

THE DEVON SCHOOL OF TAI CHI 1999 - 2009 - celebrating 10 years of Tai Chi.

www.devontaichi.co.uk Tel: 0845 257 2142 Zero Balancing

REPARATIVE TOUCH

Cathy Towers Cert. Zero Balancing With over 30 years experience in health and well-being, and a good reputation for professional, skilled care, Cathy is a fully qualified therapist in Zero Balancing, counselling and psychotherapy.

“The body therapy of choice for abuse and boundary issues” Available in Bovey Tracey, Exeter and Exmouth Contact for more information:

01395 278 437 or 07989 564660 FRIDAY 21 Weave Willow Bread Baskets with Jan Baker, 10am-3.30pm, The Cauldron, Bowden House, Totnes, 07849 072388, or email ladi.green@yahoo.com TUESDAY 25 – FRIDAY 28 Teen Spirit (13-16yrs) Moretonhampstead, Dartmoor. Experienced, professional staff create a meaningful and empowering encounter with the outdoors. Tues 3pm – Fri 2pm. £195.

WildWise Events, 01803 868269, www.wildwise.co.uk SATURDAY 29 Experience the unknown through Kundalina Yoga, incorporating kriyas (physical exercises), meditation, mantras (sound vibrations), relaxation and pranayama (breath work). Run by Ishwara Kaur. No experience necessary, 01364 642098, www.anahata.org.uk.

SATURDAY 29 – MONDAY 31 Dangerous Weekend for Boys (Bank Holiday weekend) at Moretonhampstead, Dartmoor. A dads’ & lads’ weekend to get up to all the naughty things you’re not allowed to do at home! Fri 6pm – Sun 4pm. £195 men, boys come free! WildWise Events, 01803 868269, www.wildwise.co.uk SEPTEMBER TUESDAY 1 Soundz Magic Gong/Sound Bath workshop at Kanzeon, Exeter 7.30-9.30pm contact Martyn, 0800 955 3488, 07980 747088 book £8.

To Advertise here call Pete on 01392 346342 or e-mail adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

www.cathytowers.com

SUNDAY 6 SATURDAY 12 TUESDAY 15 Laughter Workouts!

Silly games and activities played for the purpose of laughing freely like a child! Good fun and a great stress buster! 5 week courses every other week starting in September - 6th Newton Abbot, 12th Totnes and 15th Exeter - £25. Contact Lisa 01392 498298. lisa.higgs@virgin. Net. SATURDAY 5 – SUNDAY 6 Kinesiology and the Angels.

A one-and-a-half day workshop facilitated by Sue Vaughan, author of “Kinangiology” published by O-books. At Vale Healing in Somerset. Learn how to co-work with the Angels to heal emotions. Phone Sue Vaughan: 01548 852371 or visit: www.svaughan.co.uk TUESDAY 8 Chanting for peace, Bogan House, High St, Totnes , 7.30-9pm, £6, Gavin on 01803 866138 WEDNESDAY 9 Listen to the voice, weekly voice group until Nov 18, Bogan House, High St, Totnes, Gavin on 01803 866138.

WEDNESDAY 9 Green Woodwork Introduction, Woodshed, Bowden House, Totnes, £25, dougkingsmith@yahoo.co.uk or 079765899278.

SATURDAY 26 Try the Shakti (Acupressure) Mat at Harbour House, Kingsbridge. Introduction at 2pm. Free event but booking 1 week in advance essential, limited spaces. e-mail lucie.yoga@ rocketmail.com SATURDAY 26 - SUNDAY 27 Qigong with Master Zhixing Wang at Foxhole Gym, Dartington, South Devon. 0845 3305086 www.qigong-southwest.co.uk.

Editorial: 01392 346204 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

19

trust

Robin Currie I mean, what a jerk.

So heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the bloke behind launching reconnect magazine and he runs that brilliant workshop about changing your stuff around money.

And heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always going on about how heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an Independent Financial Adviser and a specialist in green, ethicallyscreened and environmentally-sensitive

one of very few in the country. products so heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

why someone like this when you could talk to your

bank...

And all that stuff about excellent financial performance and how they have a low carbon footprint so you can make money without contributing to global warming or whatever.

And he keeps implying that if you give a stuff about the environment itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like really inappropriate to use conventional providers when there are

point you in the right direction at no extra cost. people like him around who can

now you mention that, it might be worth giving him a call...

Not that heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d ever say that, of course.

BARCHESTER GREEN INVESTMENTS SERIOUS ABOUT MONEY, SERIOUS ABOUT LIFE ON EA RTH

Call Robin Currie on 01392 411630 15 Sylvan Road, Exeter, Devon EX4 6EW s tel: 01392-411630 s mob: 07973-533352 s E MAIL ROBIN CURRIE BARCHESTERGREEN CO UK s WWW BARCHESTERGREEN CO UK s WWW MAKINGFRIENDSWITHMONEY CO UK 20

)NDEPENDENT &INANCIAL !DVISERS REGULATED BY THE &INANCIAL 3ERVICES !UTHORITY