Reconnect Apr-May 2016 Issue 42

The good living and community magazine for Exeter, Plymouth and across South Devon APRIL/MAY 2016 ISSUE 42

produce k energy k land k homes k community k wellbeing k arts

Pleas e tak e one

FREE !

THE GRASS IS RIs...

We know just where the birdies is

A PLACE OF PEACE Becoming mindful, indoors and out

FEAST OF FESTIVALS

Happy and healthy

New music and MB&S events

Keeping well... naturally

48pages!

Welcome to our big 48-page Spring issue - powered by people!

Visit us online at www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Here at ENHC we offer a wide range of complementary therapies provided by experienced and highly professional practitioners. The centre, which has been established since 2001, is also renowned for its excellence in training courses.

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THE DEVON SCHOOL OF REFLEXOLOGY Award-winning Training in Professionalism and Excellence Spring/Autumn courses 2016 For more details: www.devonreflexology.com Email: devonreflexology@hotmail.com

MORE EXETER NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE PRACTITIONERS MO MORRISH RSHOM Homeopathic medicine www.the homoeopathicpractice.co.uk Authentic Ceremonies www.authenticceremonies.co.uk ANNA PARIS Ac.M.MBAC Traditional acupuncture, Toyohari 5 element & Manaka styles E: amparis1@btinternet.com SARAH HENDERSON Remedial and Therapeutic Massage Therapist APNT Dip, BCMA reg, www.renewmassages.co.uk LISA TATE Remedial, pregnancy & therapeutic massage, Myofascial release T: 07561 519344 E: lisa@lisatatetherapies.co.uk TANYA DESFONTAINES Craniosacral Therapy T: 07971 913002 E: Tanya@fifthworldcranial.co.uk KATHERINE JENKINS Hypno-counselling T: 01392 811836/07890 364847

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JULIA RYDER Wellbeing and workplace coaching with NLP therapies and tools T: 07952 956418 E: lifescenecoaching@gmail.com www.lifescenecoaching.com GUNDA FIELDEN MSTAT Alexander Technique T: 01803 782743 E: gundafielden@tiscali.co.uk RACHEL CAREY Bi-aura Bio-energy Healing, Tui Na Chinese Medical Massage, Therapeutic Oil Massage, Reflexology www.rachelcarey.co.uk T: 01392 758439 NOVA JONES MASSAGE Traditional Swedish Massage Therapy T: 07939004890, Nova Jones Massage on Facebook JESSICA OATES Hypnotherapy and NLP T: 07590 821199 E: unruffleme@hypno4swans.com W: www.hypno4swans.com

SHYRON MAIDSTONE Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) practitioner, Wellbeing Coach and Reiki Master T: 07541 510317 E: healingforyoumail@gmail.com

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• Emotional & physical trauma - without having to talk about it • PTSD

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or one to one in Exeter & Topsham Relaxing experience - profound release Jo’s additional practices: . Advanced Emotional Freedom Technique EFT . Meridian Tapping . Yoga . Therapeutic Yoga Nidra . Mindfulness Meditation Find out more & see shake videos at www.itsallaboutfeelingbetter. co.uk/TRE

Call 07714253992 or email jopureyoga@gmail.com

01392 422555 Centre Manager: Ali Morrish Find out more about us on facebook Follow us on twitter @ExeterNaturalHC Exeter Natural Health Centre, Queens Walk, 83/84 Queen Street, Exeter, EX4 3RP

e: info@enhc.org w: www.enhc.org

W: www.healingforyou.org SAMANTHA GODDARD Reiki, Massage, Sound Healing, Hopi Ear Candles, Mindfulness, Stress Advice T: 07870167701 E: sam@devonschoolofreiki.co.uk LESLEY HARPER Nutritional Therapy www.lesleyharper.co.uk DR SARAH BRYAN PH.D Holistic therapeutic, sports, remedial & deep tissue massage, Myofascial Release, Clinical Aromatherapy T: 07949 654779 W: www.sbholistic.co.uk

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

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Upfront IT'S WHAT WE'RE ABOUT

Broughttoyou by...

IN THISISSUE...

Page 24

HOLISTIC FESTIVAL

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New at Lupton House EDITOR Martin Foster

PARTY IN THE TOWN 5

New free musical event!

SPRING PROGRAMME 7 Busy days at Sharpham WELLBEING EDITOR Kate Philbin

NEW GOING OUT 9

Now with added events

GARDENING TIPS SALES SUPPORT Melissa Merrington-Pink

12

Beating weeds and slugs

BEE FOR ACTION 13 New wildlife scheme

LOCAL PRODUCE 14 ADMIN MANAGER Beth Foster

Food and drink update

CENTRE OF THINGS

16

WELCOME... ...to the April/May issue! Spring has sprung, the grass has ris, I wonder where the birdies is... Well, they’re on page 24 of this, our big 48-page issue. And along with the birds we’ve got bees too - on pages 24 and 13.

With the Spring comes new events and a burst of enthusiasm and this issue is just bursting with festivals, permaculture, wildlife, outdoor mindfulness and yoga, and lots, lots more.

Look out too for our really busy Wellbeing section - so busy, in fact, that it’s squeezed out my page, ‘And finally’, which reappears on page 22 with a new name. There’s a very exciting invitation in there too - don’t miss it and I look forward to hearing your reaction!

Finally, a small commercial break - if you want to be part of our next exciting issue (and why wouldn’t you?), get the ball rolling now by giving me a ring or sending me an email.

Enjoy the issue - and enjoy all those events.

Welcome to the Spring surge!

Martin

Seale Hayne’s for all

ECO HOMES

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Paint, upcycling, gardens

FOSTER’S MOVED 22

Still got lots to say though

COVERSTORY...

The good living and community magazine for Exeter, Plymouth and across South Devon APRIL/MAY 2016 ISSUE 42

produce k energy k land k homes k community k wellbeing k arts

THE BIRDS... 24

Please take one

FREE !

Spring tips from RSPB

...AND THE BEES 24

Buzzing Embercombe

WELLBEING 26

FEATURES WRITER Jon Stein

TWITTER EDITOR Matthew Rochford

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Jenny Foster

STAY IN TOUCH...

EDITORIAL: 01803 868455 NEW ADVERTISING: 01803 868455 CURRENT ADVERTISERS: 01392 346342 EMAIL US: editor@reconnectonline.co.uk or adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk SEND US STUFF BY POST: 45 Punchards Down, Follaton, Totnes TQ9 5FD FOLLOW US AND READ US ONLINE: www.reconnectonline.co.uk facebook.com/reconnectmagazine twitter.com/reconnectmag www.reconnectonline.co.uk

We know just where the birdies is

Natural health pages Page 5

FOOD WRITER Jane Hutton

THE GRASS IS RIs...

A PLACE OF PEACE

EMOTIONAL HEALTH 42 A little help from Leigh

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Becoming mindful, indoors and out

FEAST OF FESTIVALS

Happy and healthy

New music and MB&S events

48pages!

Keeping well... naturally

Welcome to our big 48-page Spring issue - powered by people!

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Main image: Baby Bird by Martin Kuchczynski, courtesy of RSPB (see page 24).

And below that, from left: Courtney Pine, who will headline Party in the Town (page 5); mindfulness under canvas at Sharpham (page 7); and Antoinnett Bruin communicating with life (page 35).

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Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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Gavin Blench - life drawing classes at Seale Hayne.

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New festival ‘with a village feel’

T Life drawing

YOU might remember we ran a story in the last issue about HANDS, Hannah’s Artists and Designers at Seale Hayne (see page 16 for more about that).

Well, one man missed an email and didn’t get a mention (not down to us, promise), so we thought you might like to hear about Gavin Blench who runs life drawing sessions there on Mondays, 7-9pm.

These “fun, relaxed and welcoming sessions” are open to both professional and amateur artists - tutor support, tips and suggested activities if you want it, or just turn up and draw.

Take your own materials (basics like charcoal and paper provided for a small donation).

Find out more from Rachel Farrell on 01626 325863 or email rachel.farrell@ discoverhannahs.org.

Mother of all art

A NEW exhibition in Exeter brings together the work of nine artists in “an exploration of motherhood”.

Labour of Love includes work from “very different media”, and a range of artists, some professionals, others not. The common connection is motherhood.

The exhibition runs April 8-22 at The Glorious Art House, 120 Fore Street, Exeter, 9-5 Mon-Sat and 10-4 on Sundays.

Visit bit.ly/ labourofloveexhibition for more.

HE organisers of a new festival for South Devon promise an exciting family event “with a village feel”.

Lupton Holistic Festival will be held in the house and grounds of Lupton House, near Brixham, on the weekend of July 23 and 24.

The Lupton Trust was created in 2008 to spearhead a project to build a thriving centre for the wellbeing of the community, community groups, charities and social enterprises in the area.

“One of the project’s visions was to create a Summer holistic gathering,” says Lupton’s Janet Howard, “so we made contact with event organiser Elaine Fenton, Lupton House - home of the new festival. And below, Touch who runs the well-established The Earth, who will perform in the evening.

Healing Weekend festival in it’s going to be a great weekend.

Somerset, as well as other festivals in the UK, and plans for a Lupton “Other guests will include: Barbara festival were launched.”

Meiklejohn-Free, renowned as the UK’s best loved and hardest working wisdom keeper, Elaine said: “I am thrilled to help create this author and teacher; popular mystic, author event at Lupton, in keeping with the wider and speaker Flavia Kate Peters, and many aims of the trust. other amazing speakers.

“We are trying to achieve a friendly, village “We’re planning a truly inspiring programme feel to the weekend, offering people the for everyone.” chance to take time out to explore all the amazing things on offer. With up to 90 The festival will also cater for younger visitors, exhibitors, fabulous workshops, music, with a children’s area “brimming with lovely demonstrations and an evening concert with things to do, from woodland fun, arts, crafts Touch the Earth, a tribal folk band from Kent, and storytelling to children’s massage and reflexology and more”.

The Lupton Holistic Festival will be held July 23 and 24, 10am to 5.15pm.

Admission will be £10 daily (to include all talks and workshops), with under-14s free. The evening concert on Saturday 23, featuring Touch The Earth, will run from 6.30-9.30pm and tickets will be £8.

Visit www. luptonhouseholisticfestival. com and call Janet Howard on 01803 845800 or email janet@discoverlupton.com.

REVOLUTION Under new ownership - Mike, the original owner, is back!

Weekend of fun events at Mumfest 2016 MUMFEST - the UK’s only festival just for mums, grandmas, female carers and their children - will take place on May 2022 at Beeson in South Devon.

Supported by the people behind the awardwinning DadFest, the festival promises a fun-filled weekend of camping and activities based at a forest and beach outdoor activity centre.

MumFest 2016 will offer a range of activities including storytelling in the woods at night, camping, bushcraft skills, campfire cooking, woodland games, beach exploration, archery, star-gazing, Silly Science, bat walks, kids’ talent contest, kids entertainer and magic shows, local food, wine and gin tasting, wildlife walks, tree climbing, yoga and exercising with your baby, live music, acapella singing workshop and evening lullabies.

Organiser Claire Limberg says: “MumFest is a chance for the mums, grandmas, aunts and female carers to enjoy a new unique, small festival with a focus on fun, adventurous activities.

All events are run by qualified and very experienced leaders.

Tickets are now on sale and are selling really well.”

To find out more, call Claire Limberg on 0777 2642320, email mumfestuk@gmail. com or visit www. dangerousdads.org.uk/ mumfest2016.

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The work of photographer Giles Duley who will talk at TEDxExeter in July.

news&views

Jazz man tops line-up at town party

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Stories behind the pictures THE reality of the struggle for refugees fleeing the conflict in Syria will come to life when awardwinning photographer Giles Duley shows his pictures and tells the stories behind them at this year’s TEDxExeter.

Duley, who lost three limbs and almost his life too in 2011 when working in Afghanistan, is an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Photographic Society. He started out as a fashion and music photographer photographing such nineties icons as Oasis, The Prodigy and Pulp. Disillusioned with celebrity culture, he has since worked with NGOs such as Médecins Sans Frontières, Emergency and UNHCR, documenting their work and telling the stories of those affected by conflict across the world.

TEDxExeter will be held at the Northcott Theatre on April 15, with a livestream to the nearby Alumni Auditorium. Tickets for both sold out in December, but there will also be public livestream events at RAMM (the Royal Albert Memorial Museum) and Exeter Central Library. You can also watch the livestream (click the link on www.TEDxExeter. com on the day) or hold your own private viewing party - find out how at http://tedxexeter.com/ events/host-a-private-viewing-party/).

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

NEW free festival in South Devon will “celebrate the creativity and diversity of local musicians and artists”.

Party in the Town is a new initiative from Dartington International Summer School and Festival and will include music of all genres – including iconic British jazz musician Courtney Pine and his band as the headline act.

The new event will be held all over Totnes on May 27 as part of the new year-round arts programme at Dartington, and the organisers hope it will become an annual event.

“Party in the Town will be a celebration of the panoramic and vibrant cultural life that the community of Totnes and its surrounding areas has to offer,” says artistic director Joanna MacGregor.

Free music and entertainment, on offer throughout Totnes from 6.30-9.50pm, will include a wide range of music and performers, from local school children, who will premiere their own composition created with popular Brazilian percussionist and composer Adriano Adewale, to “big band, ska, calypso and much dancing!”

Dartington Summer School & Festival takes

A concert in Dartington Hall and, left, jazz musician Courtney Pine, who will perform at Party in the Town. place from July 30-August 27 on the Dartington Estate and draws hundreds of students, tutors and audiences to the local area.

The festival offers world-class performances and expert tuition.

Residential participants can relax in the grounds in between classes, take part in yoga, dance and tai chi sessions, attend up to three concerts each evening, and join midnight jamming sessions in the bar.

“No other festival boasts such an array of worldclass tuition, concerts, and socialising to such a range of participants,” says Joanna MacGregor.

Find out more at www.dartington.org.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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Greyscale returns with Gary Kitching’s Me and Mr C, left.

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Family charity needs your support

T Theatre stages exciting work THE Bike Shed Theatre in Exeter continues to host some of the most exciting new work from around the country.

The Wardrobe Ensemble, who recently enjoyed sell-out success at The Bike Shed with Eloise and The Curse of the Golden Whisk, return with a new show for a much more adult audience, 1972: The Future of Sex. Winner of The Stage Award for Acting Excellence, the company return to Exeter as part of a national tour.

Also coming to Exeter, following a phenomenal Edinburgh debut, is Breach Theatre with The Beanfield, a multi-media show set between the 1985 and 2015 summer solstice celebration, reflecting on “state violence, civic freedom and cultural heritage”.

Other productions over the next couple of months include: Spitz and Co’s Glorilla; Made in China’s Tonight I’m Gonna Be The New Me; Fuel Theatre’s The Joke; and Greyscale with Gary Kitching’s Me and Mr C along with the Wildfire Award-winning Gods are Fallen and All Safety Gone.

Tickets are £12 (£10 concession) and there’s a two-for-one deal on all tickets on Tuesday nights.

There’s more at www.bikeshedtheatre.co.uk.

HIRTY years ago, Home-Start Exeter and East Devon was launched to support families in the area. And since then, hundreds of local children have benefited from the befriending and mentoring offered by this group of dedicated volunteers.

The message is clear - they need YOU! Now the was absolutely amazing! With her charity is support each week she has enabled looking for more people to join me to ‘breathe’ and, little by little, its team and is asking Reconnect we are coping much better.” readers to consider volunteering.

Sue added: “We are currently Home-Start Exeter Scheme overwhelmed with referrals and Manager, Sue Rose explained it’s heart-breaking to have to send that volunteers provide a lifeline some of them back. Volunteering to families that are experiencing for Home-Start is a great way to difficulties and can make a huge use your parenting experience to difference to people’s lives. help other families and I invite One recent beneficiary said: “Being anyone who is interested to give new to the area, our support us a call.” network was non-existent and For more information call Anna or with no family locally we were Rachel on 01392 426440 or visit struggling to cope and I was feeling www.homestartexeter.co.uk. incredibly isolated. Our volunteer

Help for kids in the long run SINCE the age of 11, Exeter Steiner School teacher Simon Berkley has been raising money for children’s charities.

In April he will be running in the London Marathon to raise funds for the Children’s Trust, which provides rehabilitation for children with brain injury.

It’s Simon’s first marathon and over the last few months he has been getting in shape for the 26-mile run. He is asking local people to help him reach his target of £1,800 for the charity by sponsoring him or coming along to hear him busk in Totnes on April 2.

Simon said: “The children supported by The Children’s Trust face tough challenges in their life but they don’t give up. They inspired me to want to run the marathon and have kept me going through all the rain and dark nights and injuries when it would have been easy to give up.”

To sponsor Simon visit: uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ SimonBerkley.

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Mindfulness retreats under canvas in Sharpham woodland, right.

And forager Brigit-Anna McNeill serves up a wildfood feast, below.

Season of delights at Sharpham

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HERE’S a chance to wander through a Capability Brown parkland landscape in the 300th birthday year of the famed garden designer at the Sharpham House Spring Garden Open Day. “The gardens are a real delight during the Spring with wonderful views over the River Dart and flowers and trees in blossom,” says Sharpham’s programme manager Maya Herbolzheimer.

The Open Day, 10.30am-4pm on Sunday April 3, will also include tours of the garden and the Grade 1-listed Sharpham House as well as storytelling and outdoor and craft activities for all the family.

Bob the Bus will run a free shuttle service from Totnes – see the Sharpham Trust website for times.

Sharpham is gearing up for its busiest season ever, with a full programme of retreats and courses.

The first mindfulness retreat of the season, on Thursday April 14, is also the first in a series of retreats under canvas in Sharpham woodland.

Two types of woodland retreats are on offer: Coming to Our Senses – three and five-night mindfulness and nature connection retreats for men and women; and three-night nature

connection women-only woodland retreats. Participants on both will get time away from the frantic pace of everyday life and experience guided meditations, movement and sitting practice, medicine walks, foraging and feasting on wild food.

Themed retreats continue in popularity at Sharpham and the Barn Retreat Centre’s run includes Buddhist Mindfulness - what is it? from April 3 and Rebel Dharma on April 17.

This season also sees the Sharpham House retreat for mindful foodies. Moments to Savour - mindful eating and conscious cooking is on April 7 and on July 7.

Author Caspar Walsh coleads a creative writing and nature connection retreat on May 20, offering a unique blend of writing, meditation and nature connection as “a stimulus for your writing and as a mirror to your habitual patterns of thinking”.

Taking Mindfulness Deeper is a fivenight retreat aimed at those who’ve experienced mindful meditation and want to explore further. It begins on May 26.

Sharpham is partnering with The Forge Yoga Centre in Totnes to stage its eight-week course in Mindfulness & Well-Being.

If you have an appetite for foraging, Sharpham’s professional

forager Brigit-Anna McNeill leads groups across the estate to find wild food, before bringing them back for a wild food feast in Sharpham’s woodland campsite. Bank Holiday Monday May 2 and Sunday May 15 are the dates.

And if you love the sound of bird-listening as well as watching, you’ll love the Dusk Chorus Walk, happening on Saturday May 14.

Birdsong expert Mike Langman will help you unlock the aural beauty of the countryside.

Find out more at www.sharphamtrust. org, call 01803 732542 or email bookings@sharphamtrust.org. l See page 26 for more Wellbeing news and views.

Community does business again at the forum

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The Like a Bee session at last year’s Local Entrepreneurs’ Forum - photo Nicola Lang

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HE Local Entrepreneurs’ Forum is back with more community-minded business people, more enthusiastic investors, more support from Reconnect magazine – and more beer.

LEF5 will be at Totnes Civic Hall on May 12 but this year will start later at 2pm and run through to 10pm.

So the beer (courtesy of LEF-supported New Lion Brewery) will come out a little earlier and there will also be a DJ set from Drift Records, who will soon bring us the new Sea Change festival. Otherwise the format stays much the same as previous years – which is good news for community-focused business across the region.

At the centre of things will be the Community of Dragons, inspired by the BBC’s Dragon’s Den but without the stacks of cash and equally towering egos.

At the LEF version, the four or five people who pitch will all be creating, or developing, businesses that benefit the community in some way.

And, instead of pitching to a panel of millionaires, they will ask members of the community for their support – and although thousands of pounds have been given over the years, pledges can also take many other forms, including expertise, premises, mentoring, childcare, marketing (Reconnect has provided free marketing support) and much more.

There will also be two talks not to be missed: in the afternoon, Rhodri Samuel, new CEO of Dartington Estate; and in the evening, Jonny Gorden-Farleigh, publisher of Stir Magazine (www.stirtoaction.com/) and initiator of social enterprises and projects like Local Food Takeaway Project.

Reconnect is a big supporter of the LEF project and we urge you to get along there to get involved, offer support - and have fun. It really is a business event that will leave you feeling good about life!

For more information and to book, visit www. reconomycentre.org/lef.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk

NEWS&views Don’t dry clean just wash with care DO those ‘Dry clean only’ labels really bug you? Feltmaker Yuli Somme says dry cleaning is expensive, unkind for us and the environment - and often unnecessary.

So Yuli’s Bellacouche Chapel Felt Studio in Mortonhampstead is hosting Laundry Day on May 14 and she’s encouraging people to take along their cherished garments for “laundering in the time-honoured, handwashing way.”

“Laundry Day is an opportunity to wash ‘tricky’ textiles, after looking at the labels to see what they’re made of and then deciding (with some expert help) the best way to clean them.

“It’s going to be a fun, funny day - whacky, surprising and I hope revealing.”

The washed garments will be hung on a washing line around the Chapel workshop and along the street outside Green Hill Arts Centre.

Archival films about weaving and other textile production and washing in the old days will be projected alongside the growing display.

The event is supported by Ecover washing products.

Laundry Day is part of A Darn Good Yarn, at Green Hill Arts Centre in Moretonhampstead, April 23-June 4.

Visit www.greenhillarts.co.uk.

The case for bringing in the experts

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T’S tempting these days to believe we’re all graphic designers and website builders. Online design and website software is easy to find and easy to use – so it’s easy to be tempted to design all the promotional material for our own businesses.

But here at Reconnect we believe in letting people do what they’re best at. And we practice what we preach.

“I design the magazine pages,” says editor Martin Foster, “but when it comes to creating a website, I recognise both how important it is to our business – and how important it is to have the right skills to create it.”

So go for an expert in their field – but make sure they’re the right expert. We work with Doets Design, who offer a complete website and graphic design (logos, leaflets, etc) service.

Says Martin: “Good graphic and website design brings together a number of skills: creativity, technical knowledge and a hard to define (and even harder to find) quality which is best described as ‘market awareness’.

“We’ve found all these qualities in Rob and Natassia at Doets Design – and they’re really good people to work with,

Wild Women’s Hearth on Dartmoor in July.

Wild women and have a great ethical ethos, which is also vital for us.”

As well as design skills, website design requires knowledge around a whole range of other features like web security, your online ‘findability’ (you’ve probably heard web geeks call it ‘search engine optimisation’), proper and effective use of social media and a whole load of technical stuff, which we’re more than happy for Rob and Natassia to sort for us.

Says Martin: “As we are all well aware, we live in a visually-aware age and a factor in Reconnect’s success is undoubtedly the design of the magazine, its advertisements and now its website too.”

To find out more about the Doets Design’s website and graphic design services, call them on 07770 034504 or visit www.doetsdesign.com.

WOMEN will have the chance to reconnect with nature at Women’s Wild Hearth, a Dartmoor camp from July 5-10.

Expect bushcraft, yoga, craft, sweatlodge, song, community.

See www.klaudia. co.uk/womens-wildhearth for more, or call Klaudia on 07816 841129.

Totnes Pride

A DATE for your diary – Totnes Pride 2016 will be on Saturday, September 3. Stay up to date at www. proud2be.co.uk.

Short Courses at Schumacher College Dark Ecology: Into the Depths of a Breathing Planet

Enlivenment and Liberation: Bringing ‘Aliveness’ Back To Our World and Lives

With David Abram and Stephan Harding Join two of the world’s finest ecological educators as they interweave their and our experience of an animate earth.

With Andreas Weber and guests Stephan Harding, Satish Kumar and David Bollier (by videolink) This is a course for all who want to make ‘deep sustainability’ possible and find personal and collective liberation through a ‘new policy of life’.

11 - 15 April

18 - 22 April

Fire In The Heart – Tracking the Poetry of our Lives

Living On The Earth – Remembering the Ways of the Ancients

With Jay Ramsay, Peter Owen Jones and special guest Andrew Harvey (Skype) join us as we explore the practice of poetry and creative writing as ways of accessing our own internal guidance – the poet inside all of us.

With Jessie Watson Brown & Jane Robertson (The Stone Age Women) and Mac Macartney Join us for a week in the woods where we learn the primitive skills of foraging, fire-making, wandering and listening, and convene around the hearth, the heart of our community, to traverse together the old tracks and ancient pathways towards living closely and simply in nature.

11 - 15 April

18 - 22 April

Did you know, we offer locals £150 discount if accommodation isn’t required? Call us when booking: 01803 865934

Book online: www.schumachercollege.org.uk/short-courses 8

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Goingout OURBIGGUIDETO BIG LOCAL EVENTS ARTS & CRAFTS SPRING IS ON IT’S WAY & WE’VE BEEN BUSY Until April 30 Work of new makers including ceramics, sculpture, items made using local maps and jewellery. Baxters Gallery, 2 Foss Street, Dartmouth, www. baxtersgallery.co.uk.

SHIFTWORKS BY SEAM COLLECTIVE Until April 28 Celebrate 50 years of the shift dress with nine textile artists/ designers. Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey, 10am-5.30pm, www.crafts.org.uk.

21 GROUP ART EXHIBITION Until April 2 Wide range of media and techniques offering an exciting variety of images, Artmill Gallery, 83 Hyde Park Road, Plymouth, 10am -4pm, www.21group. org.uk LABOUR OF LOVE April 8-22 An exploration of

APRIL/MAY 2016

How to get YOUR events into Going Out...

WELCOME to Reconnect’s GoingOut pages...

Trust us to bring together all the hot stuff from across the region, all now categorised for easy access.

And check out our even more comprehensive online version at www.reconnecthub.co.uk - or visit it via our new website at www.reconnectonline.co.uk.

To get YOUR event listed online (and be in with a chance of it being listed here in the mag too), simply register at ReconnectHub and enter the info free of charge.

And to advertise here or online, email sales@ reconnectonline.co.uk or call 01803 868455. motherhood, bit.ly/ labourofloveexhibition for more.

NORMAN ACKROYD: NORTH SOUTH EAST WEST Until April 24 Largest exhibition of Ackroyd etchings ever to be held outside of London, Brook Gallery (Exeter), 1 Barnfield Crescent, Exeter, www. brookgallery.co.uk TREES: OPEN ART EXHIBITION Until April 3 An opportunity for artists to take their first steps in exhibiting their work, open Monday-Saturday, Harbour House,

NO FEATU W FREE RING ENTR ONLINE MOR IES AND E IN EXPO -MAG SURE

The Promenade, Kingsbridge, 10am-5pm, www. harbourhousecafe. com.

EXHIBITION: MAKE IT OK Until May 18 An investigation into healing and restoration by five textile artists , daily 10am-5.30pm, Devon Guild of Craftsmen, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey, www.crafts. org.uk.

DEVON PRINTMAKERS Until April 17 Exhibition by some of the best printmakers from across Devon, Hannahs at Seale-

Hayne, Newton Abbot, www.discoverhannahs. org.

EXETER’S FINE ART COLLECTION + Until May 8 The RAMM collection of topographical prints drawings and watercolours. Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM), Queen Street, Exeter, 10am-5pm, www. rammuseum.org.uk.

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL - EVOLVING THE BRAND April 9-17 The work of two very diofferent but complimentary artists, Edward Waite and Leanne Christie, Art

Source Contemporary Gallery, Dean Clarke House, Exeter, artsourceuk.co.uk EXPLORATION: LOUISE BOUGOURD April 16-23 An exciting week full of experimentation and exploration: trying new techniques and mediums mixing things up and watching the magic happen, Harbour House, Kingsbridge, www.harbourhouse. org.uk.

JOHN POLLEX SOLO EXHIBITION April 23-May 31 Internationally renowned potter John

Pollex returns with a solo exhibition, 45 Southside Gallery, Plymouth, www.45southside. co.uk.

FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING April 26-May 4 Sue Steele ,John Weston, Helen Petit and Neil Anderson take the life model as the basis for their work, Harbour House, The Promenade, Kingsbridge, www. harbourhouse.org.uk.

DEVON ART SOCIETY SPRING EXHIBITION April 30-May 15 Devon Art Society artists with originals in all mediums, framed and unframed, plus greeting cards & raffle, Devon Art Society, St Annes Hall, Torquay, committeedevonart. wix.com/devon-artsociety.

DELAMORE ART May 1-May 31 The work of over 100 artists from across the UK, Delamore Arts Exhibition, Delamore Estate, Ivybridge, www. delamore-art.co.uk.

Continued over

Devon County Show at Westpoint, Exeter, May 19-21

Jeremy Hardy, at Babbacombe Theatre, Torquay, on May 14

Sculpture by Neil Anderson - at Harbour House gallery from April 26May 4.

Rainbow’s End

HOLISTIC WELLBEING AND NATURAL CRAFTS FESTIVAL

Civic Hall, High Street, Totnes May 14th and 15th 2016 10am-5pm Free admission All-day programme of talks, workshops and demonstrations Wide variety of readers, healers and traders All-day café www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

9

LOTS more events and info online:

GOING OUT

Rams - see the highly acclaimed Icelandic movie at Exeter Phoenix on April 2.

WILDWISE

Early Summer Events MAY 21 - 22: COASTAL WALKABOUT - EAST PRAWLE JUNE 1: EXTRAORDINARY SCHOOL FOR KIDS (8-12 YRS) - DARTINGTON JUNE 3: NIGHTPADDLE ON THE RIVER DART JUNE 4 - 5: FAMILY WILD NIGHT OUT - DARTMOOR JUNE 12: FOREST SKILLS DAY - DARTINGTON JULY 2: WILD DAY OUT FOR FAMILIES - DARTINGTON JULY 23 - 26: SACRED HUNTING CAMP (12-16 YRS) - DARTMOOR

For more info and our full programme of events: 01803 868269 | info@wildwise.co.uk | www.wildwise.co.uk

Party in the Town 27 May 2016 | 6pm till late

A big celebration in Totnes with free music & entertainment in venues and spaces across the town. Headline act Courtney Pine and his band with their House of Legends show at the Civic Hall at 9:30pm.

@DartingtonArts #partyinthetown

Dartington Arts

www.dartington.org/whats-on/summer-school/party-in-the-town Tel: 01803 847080

10

BALLET BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET April 13-16 Theatre Royal, Plymouth, www. theatreroyal.com VIENNA FESTIVAL BALLET May 6 Lavish costumes, stunning sets, international young stars and the music of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, Princess Theatre, Torbay,

CHILDREN AND FAMILY EVENTS EASTER EGG HUNT AT GREENWAY UNTIL April 9 Bunny has left clues to point you in the right direction around the garden of Greenway National Trust, Greenway Road, Galmpton, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ greenway.

EASTER AT HANNAHS Until April 10 The Really Wild Duck Hunt and an art installation called The House of Mirrors, Hannahs at SealeHayne, Newton Abbot, www.discoverhannahs. org.

PLANT IT, GROW IT EAT IT April 5 The Greenway gardeners help children plant a pot of vegetable seeds, Greenway National Trust, Greenway Road, Galmpton, http:// www.nationaltrust.org. uk/greenway.

FLATPACK April 10 In true silent movie style, this family show is accompanied by live music, Hannahs at Seale-Hayne, Newton Abbot, www. discoverhannahs.org.

FAIRY DAY May 29 Annual Fairy Day with

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fairy trail and craft activities, Greenway National Trust, Greenway Road, Galmpton, www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ greenway.

CLASSICAL MUSIC PLYMOUTH PHOENIX CHORALE April 16 Plymouth Phoenix Chorale, St Peters Church, Plymouth, plymouthphoenix chorale.org.

ASCENDIT DEUS! May 7 Rheinberger: Mass in E flat, West Devon Chorale, RC Cathedral, Plymouth, 7.30-9.30pm, www. westdevonchorale. co.uk.

A CONCERT OF CELEBRATION AND PRAISE May 14 Exeter Philharmonic Choir, Mint Methodist Church, Exeter, www. exephil.org.uk.

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA April 7 The Great Hall, Exeter University, www.exeter. ac.uk/eventexeter/ venues/great-hall.

VIV MCLEAN - PIANO April 15 Beethoven’s Diabelli Variations, NADSA Concerts, Courtenay Centre, Newton Abbot, 7-9.45pm, www. nadsa.co.uk.

PERFORMANCE April 20 Richard III - pushing the boundaries of Shakespearean performance with Brite Theater, Peninsula Arts, The House, Plymouth, 7.30-8.30pm, www. plymouth.ac.uk/youruniversity/peninsulaarts.

SUCH SWEET THUNDER April 30 The Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn composition, Peninsula

Arts, Theatre 1, Plymouth, 7.3010pm, www.plymouth. ac.uk/your-university/ peninsula-arts.

BOURNEMOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA May 7 The Great Hall Exeter University, 7.30pm, www.exeter.ac.uk/ eventexeter/venues/ great-hall.

COMEDY

LEE NELSON April 1 Exeter Corn Exchange, 7.30pm, Corn Exchange, Exeter, 7.30pm, exeter.gov. uk/cornexchange.

THE JOY OF MINCING: JULIAN CLARY April 15 Exeter Corn Exchange, 8pm, Corn Exchange, Exeter, 7.30pm, exeter. gov.uk/cornexchange RICH HALL - 3.10 TO HUMOUR April 17 Babbacombe Theatre, Torquay, 8-10pm, www.babbacombetheatre.com.

HENNING WEHN April 28 Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, theflavel. org.uk.

LEE NELSON May 1 Babbacombe Theatre, Torquay, 7.30-9.30pm, www. babbacombe-theatre. com.

JEREMY HARDY May 14 Babbacombe Theatre, Torquay, 7.30-9.30pm, www. babbacombe-theatre. com.

BILL BAILEY May 20/21 Princess Theatre, Torquay

FARMERS MARKETS ASHBURTON Six days a week Tuckers’ Yard, Ashburton.

BOVEY TRACEY

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

www.reconnectonline.co.uk/diary Namvula - at Stokeinteignhead on April 2

Paul Young and Los Pacominos at South Devon Arts Centre on May 20.

Alernate Saturdays Town Square, Bovey Tracey.

BUCKFASTLEIGH Every Thursday Globe Inn car park 9am till 12 noon DARTMOUTH Every second Saturday The Old Market, Dartmouth.

EXETER Every Thursday Junction of South Street and Fore Street.

EXMOUTH Every second Wednesday The Strand Gardens, Exmouth.

ILFRACOMBE Every first and third Saturday St Peter’s Church, Ilfracombe.

IVYBRIDGE Hartford Road car park, Ivybridge.

KINGSBRIDGE Every first and third Saturday Town Square, Kingsbridge.

MANATON Third Thursday Manaton Parish Hall Manaton.

NEWTON ABBOT Every Tuesday Courtney Street, Newton Abbot.

PLYMOUTH Every first Sunday Royal William Yard, Plymouth.

TEIGNMOUTH Every last Saturday The Triangle, Teignmouth.

FESTIVALS & EXHIBITIONS TOBY BUCKLAND’S GARDEN FESTIVAL April 29-30 Gardening events, plus live music and produce, Powderham Castle, Exeter, www. tobygardenfest.co.uk.

EXETER FESTIVAL OF SOUTH WEST FOOD & DRINK April 22-24 Stalls, demonstrations

and displays,plus two evening Festival After Dark events with live music,and more, Northernhay Gardens, Exeter, www. exeterfoodanddrink festival.co.uk.

BUDLEIGH JAZZ FESTIVAL April 22-24 Blues and jazz line-up, www. budleighjazzfestival. org.

DART MUSIC FESTIVAL May 13-15 Mixed genre event at venues across the town, www. dartmusicfestival. co.uk.

HOME FRONT FASHIONS Until May 8 Part of RAMM’s fouryear programme of exhibitions, displays, events and activities focusing on the First World War’s impact on the people and landscape of the Southwest, Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM), Queen Street, Exeter PLYMOUTH FILM FESTIVAL May 13-15 International films alongside best from the West, Plymouth Arts Centre, www. plymouthfilmfestival. co.uk DEVON COUNTY SHOW May 19-21 All things rural, Westpoint, Exeter, www. devoncountryshow. co.uk MUMFEST May 20-22 UK’s only festival just for mums, grandmas, female carers and their children, www. dangerousdads.org. uk/mumfest2016.

PARTY IN THE TOWN May 27 Totnes Civic Hall, see page 5, www. dartington.org.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

FILM RAMS (15) April 2 Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk.

JANIS: LITTLE GIRL BLUE April 2 Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth, www. theflavel.org.uk HAIL CAESAR (12A) April 8-14 Plymouth Arts Centre, www. plymouthartscentre. org/ A BIGGER SPLASH (15) April 11-15 Exeter Phoenix, Gandy Street, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk.

VERTIGO (PG) April 30 Follaton Community Centre, Totnes, www. follatoncommunity cinema.co.uk AMY (12A) May 28 Follaton Community Centre, Totnes, www. follatoncommunity cinema.co.uk

www.exeterphoenix.

PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB org.uk/.

April 3 The Royal British SUPERMOOD Legion Club, April 29 Plymouth, 7.30pm, A trio playing www.plymouth-jazz“contemporary music club.org.uk. rooted in jazz”, Barnfield Theatre, FOLK CONCERT Exeter, 8pm. www.

April 9 barnfieldtheatre.org.

Stamp and Go, Moor uk.

Music Trio, Mick Bramich, Steve Potter JAH WOBBLE AND and Andy Clarke, THE INVADERS OF THE South Brent Folk, HEART South Brent Village April 29 Hall, South Brent, Exeter Phoenix, www.

7.30-11pm, www. exeterphoenix.org.uk. southbrentfolk.org.uk.

RONI SIZE AND DJ OAKHAART/KING KRUST LEVIATHAN/VIPERA May 20 April 15 Exeter Phoenix, www.

Winners of Bloodstock exeterphoenix.org.uk.

Metal to the Masses PAUL YOUNG AND Oakhaart, plus a full LOS PACOMINOS line-up of powerful May 20 metal bands, Los Pacominos, Barnfield Theatre, fronted by one of the Exeter, 7.30pm, www.

UK’s finest and best barnfieldtheatre.org. loved vocalists - 1980s uk. pop legend Paul THE NEW WAY TO GET EVENTS PLYMOUTH JAZZ CLUB Young, South Devon AprilINTO 17 Arts MAGAZINE Centre, Totnes, RECONNECT The Royal British www.southdevonarts.

Legion Club, co.uk/ Your event Plymouth, 7.30pm, www.plymouth-jazzwill also gain club.org.uk.

WILDvaluable FOOD POP UP KATHRYN ROBERTS FEAST and AND SEAN LAKEMAN April 29 April 17 immediately A short walk to identify Folk duo with support edible plants followed exposure online from Kitty McFarlane, by a three-course Exeter Phoenix, 8pm, meal inspired and

westdorsethub

MUSIC BEN JORDAN April 15 A 21st century bard and modern troubadour, Cygnet Theatre, Exeter, 7.3010pm, cygnettheatre. co.uk.

DART MUSIC FESTIVAL May 13-15 An inclusive range of music, crossing genres, at venues across Dartmouth,http:// www.dartmusicfestival. co.uk.

NAMVULA April 2 Namvula mixes traditions of her Zambian homeland with her Scottish heritage and London’s vibrant eclectic music scene, Villages in Action, Stoke Road, Stokeinteignhead, 7.30pm, www villagesinaction.co.uk.

Get your events in RECONNECT mag Register at: reconnecthub.co.uk then add your events.

It’s easy & totally free.

OUTDOORS

created from the fields, woods and hedgerows, WildWise, Dartington Estate, Totnes, wildwise.co.uk DAWN CHORUS WALK May 7 Listen to and identify early morning bird song with a National Trust countryside rangers, Greenway National Trust, Galmpton, 5-8am, 5.00am to 8.00am, www.nationaltrust.org. uk/greenway.

WILD FLOWER WALK May 12 A walk around the Lennon Legacy Project land to see the spring flowers.

The Lennon Legacy Project (LLP), a wildlife haven managed for Barn Owls on the edge of Dartmoor, Barn Owl Trust, Waterleat, Ashburton , 2.30-4.30pm, www. barnowltrust.org.uk.

MONDAYS WITH GARDENING FOR HEALTH May 30-July 22 Join a Monday garden session for the benefit of health and learn about food-growing in company of others.

Gardening For Health, The Lamb Garden Totnes, 2-4.30pm.

reconnecthub The new way to get YOUR event into Reconnect’s GoingOut pages TO ADVERTISE your event on our new diary website, Reconnecthub, simply visit www.reconnecthub.co.uk and register then you can enter your own events.

AND some of them will appear in the next (Apr/May) issue of Reconnect magazine.

AND they will be viewed through other EventHub websites (across the SW).

AND it’s all FREE! (There are some online advertisements available too and it’s first come, first served - so call Martin now on 01803 868455)

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

11

Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk

ORGANICGARDENING A JOYOUS time for gardeners as the new season begins and first we need to do battle with a few of our veg plot undesirables...

First let’s get those weeds away...

T

HE evenings are finally getting longer and that can only mean more time to spend in the veg garden, so what should we be getting on with?

Well, lots really because those weeds just don’t stop growing do they? And of course it’s much easier to clear them when they are still small.

Annual weeds (plants that only grow for one season reproducing by flowering and then going to seed) are much easier to deal with. Take a sharp hoe and slice through the stems and the weeds can then be either left on the surface of the soil to wilt and rot down or raked off and placed in the compost bin.

Perennial weeds (such as docks, dandelions, couch grass and bindweed) on the other hand will need to be dug out thoroughly.

Take extra care when weeding between onions so you don’t disturb the roots - this can cause a poor crop.

So once all the weeding is out the way (for the time being anyway), it’s time to do some serious planting. Once we are clear of frost, towards the end of May, we can plant out all the tender crops, such as sweetcorn, runner beans, French beans, outdoor tomatoes, courgette and squashes.

They may need a little bit of hardening off, depending on what conditions they have been grown in. The larger garden centre (or plant supermarkets as I like to call them) tend to keep their plants at a much higher temperature than smaller

nurseries, which causes the plant to go into shock – and that obviously slows down the plants’ natural growth.

April and May are ideal sowing months for root vegetables and you just have to give carrots a go. If you’ve not tasted carrots that have just been pulled straight from the ground you are missing out!

Choose an area of the garden that isn’t too stony and rake it thoroughly. Carrot seed is very small and it is very easy to oversow - a tip I was given many years ago is to mix it with some very dry horticultural sand and then sow into trenches 1-2cm deep and 15cm apart. This helps to spread the seed a bit further apart.

When the seedlings start to appear and are large enough to handle, you can thin them out to about 7-9cm apart. To protect your carrot crop from the Carrot Root Fly, create a barrier over or around the crop. This can be done in various ways but covering it with horticultural fleece is probably the easiest.

Parsnips can also be sown now but never use old seed - it just doesn’t last from one year to the next. This time make a trench 1-2cm deep and place three seeds every 15cm. Once again, wait until the seedlings are big enough to handle and then pull out the two weaker ones from every three, leaving just one to grow to maturity. Don’t allow the soil to completely dry out.

It’s slime to start slog against slugs!

HAVE you noticed just how many slugs and snails appear after we have had a big downpour? Now, if I had a 100% foolproof way of getting rid of them I would be rich and probably World-famous. But I don’t and I’m not!

They can though be kept at bay with organic slug pellets and organic barriers (both available from our nursery in Yealmpton next to Riverford farm shop). Alternatively, you can try some homemade options such as crushed egg shells, sheep’s wool, any gritty materials and my favourite, wood ash. Apply a wide ring around individual plants and this might just give you a 75% chance.

If you’re not squeamish then probably the best thing to do is go out after dark with your torch and pick them off by hand. What happens to them after that is entirely up to you!

The bigger you can grow or buy your plants before you plant them will help because a larger plant can withstand a bit of a munching from the slimy little devils!

Whatever you get up to this Spring in the vegetable garden, enjoy!

Reconnect’s Organic Gardening column is written by Joa Grower of Growers Organics. Meet her at Totnes market on Fridays and Saturdays.

Visit www.growersorganics.com, or call 01752 881180.

12

The evolution of Evolution BACK in 1989, Mike Davies opened a small shop in the Pickwick Arcade, Exeter, selling esoteric books, crystals and music upstairs. He called it Evolution and, despite its awkward position, business was good and in 1991 he moved it to much larger premises in Fore Street, where it was even more successful.

Mike sold the business in 1998 and it carried on as Evolution, changing hands and changing emphasis with each new owner. Last year, a new owner decided to call it Revolution, pronounced Reevolution and meaning re-Evolution.

Recently, that owner decided to leave and, in the absence of finding someone else to run it for the short time left on the lease, it fell back into the hands of the main leaseholder - which happened to be Mike. So Mike is back!

Says Mike: “I never expected or intended this to happen - I’m of retiring age now! - but now that it has I feel excited and I’m enjoying the creativity of the situation.

“A lot has changed in this business since I first opened the shop. The book trade has changed completely, for example, and a lot of people go online now, but I still intend to sell some discount books and I’m in the process of building a good second hand section.

“Otherwise there will be a good range of drums, digeridoos and other ethnic instruments, singing bowls, prayer flags and other Buddhist stuff, crystals and crystal jewellery, aromatherapy oils, greetings cards, clothes, beautiful scented candles, chimes, an expanded range of incense and much more.”

Mike plans to run the business until he can find someone suitable to take it over with a new lease.

The building is on three floors with a flat, a courtyard, a kitchen, potential for a cafe, several rooms that can be run as therapy rooms and a large garage.

If you’re interested, you can call him on 01392 410759 or 07773282861.

Feel the funk at WOMAD WOMAD, the world music festival that we know is hugely popular with Reconnect readers, has its usual eclectic mix of performers, including this year the legendary George Clinton Parliament Funkadelic, the iconic Baaba Maal and beautifully expressive trumpeter Ibrahim Maalouf.

But enough superlatives – it’s at Charlton Park in Wiltshire from July 2831 and you can find out more and book tickets (sorry, early bird tickets are sold out even as we go to press) at womad. co.uk.

Singing really IS good for you SINGING coach and choir leader Pete Scott, right, says it’s tried, tested and proven that singing is good for your wellbeing. So do it!

H

OW often do you actually sing? Every day?

Singing makes you feel well – it’s tried, tested and proven. It delivers a sense of wellbeing and that’s got to be good in our modern stress/ anxiety culture. So why not do it every opportunity you get?

Here’s a little challenge for you.

Make up a little tune for yourself to sing right now. Make the sound sssshhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaaah. That gets you supporting the sound with your breath.

Then tap your foot and count 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4 round and round. Make up a little tune to fit, using two or three notes, on the sound aaaahhh.

Do it so it repeats round and round.

If you don’t like the tune, change it until you find something you do like - that makes you feel good. You don’t have to sing loud. Quiet is nice too, and this is just for you. You don’t need to please anyone else or

Advertising: 01392 346342 adverts@reconnectonline.co.uk

get their approval.

Then try the tune on different sounds – oh or mmm or eh.

Maybe take a few words that inspire you and make a tune out of them. Like ‘so good to know you’ or ‘sun sun sun’. Anything that makes you feel good.

In a few moments you have a little song/chant that is just for you - that makes you feel good and contributes to your feelings of wellbeing. Sing it to your heart’s content. And then ask yourself: ‘How well do I feel right now?’ I suspect pretty good!

If you want some help with singing, give me a call on 07896 276577.

And if you want to sing with other people with a strong sense of wellbeing, come try out one of our Funky-Bizness Community Choirs.

On Tuesdays we meet in St Sidwells Community Centre in Exeter (EX4 6NN). And on Thursdays at Pomphlett Methodist Centre in Plymouth (PL9 7BL). Both sessions run 7.15-9pm and the first is free.

Love to see you there. Be well!

Visit www.funky-bizness.co.uk/ choir/.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Jeff Sleeman with Vivienne Carnt and Pippa Bucknell of Red Earth Consultancy.

Council’s buzzing idea

B

Mediation for ‘people problems’

I

F you’ve ever been involved in conflict in the workplace you will know how quickly this can turn a pleasant job into a stressful and emotionally draining ordeal.

And if the source of the conflict is not properly addressed its effects can spread, leading to widespread dissatisfaction, poor performance and loss of productivity, often ending in the costly and time consuming process of an employment tribunal.

A more economic, expedient and less distressing solution is mediation, which allows the two parties to resolve their differences without recourse to the courts.

Red Earth Consultancy is an Exeter-based company

which offers workplace mediation services and training in mediation skills for business owners, managers and HR professionals.

Vivienne Carnt, the founder and director of the company is an accredited mediator who can help to resolve challenging ‘people problems’ quickly and effectively - wherever in the organisation they occur.

She is currently working with actor and lifecoach Jeff Sleeman to run a series of interactive mediation skills workshops - open to anyone wishing to know more about these useful techniques. Visit www. redearthconsultancy. co.uk or call Vivienne on 0845 0036360.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

EES, butterflies and bugs will benefit from a new joint initiative between wildlife charity, Buglife and Torbay Council.

Torbay’s Buzzing – a project funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Torbay Council - aims to help stop the decline in Torbay’s bees, butterflies and other pollinating insects.

The plan is to fill Torbay’s parks and green spaces with wildflowers, transforming areas of mown grass from green deserts into havens for wildlife and people.

In total, around five hectares of flowerbeds across Torbay, Paignton and Brixham will be given a green makeover.

Volunteers from local communities will be invited to sow seeds, plant wildflowers and trees, and get involved in family bug hunts.

Torbay’s Mayor, Gordon Oliver, said: “Torbay is rich in natural beauty and wildlife and this initiative will

give a much needed boost to Torbay’s bees. It will not only improve the look of our flowerbeds and green spaces, creating wonderful wildflower-rich wildlife havens for everyone to enjoy, but will also provide a safe place for insects and pollinators which contribute so much to our lives.”

To get involved in wildflower planting and other bug activities, call Joanne Gilvear at Buglife on 01752 395188, or e-mail joanne.gilvear@ buglife.org.uk

NEWS&views New MB&S show in town MANY Reconnect readers will be familiar with the Rainbow’s End Mind Body and Spirit Show, but this year they have something new and very special – the Rainbow’s End Holistic Wellbeing and Natural Crafts Festival.

The venue is new too: the Civic Hall in Totnes. And it’s free!

Sandi Mayes of Rainbow’s End said: “It is a light and airy space situated in the middle of this bustling market town.

“There will be a much wider range of exhibitors because we want to offer something for everyone – lovely craft items, professional therapists and healers, as well as different types of readings.

“The free all day programme of talks, demonstrations and workshops will offer the chance for people to learn about and experience a different range of topics.”

Call Sandi on 07900 824089.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

13

Permaculture taster and full design courses at Landmatters.

Ethical food for market and catering

A

NEW local food business can meet all your ethical and dietary needs with a range of raw and cooked foods – and a catering service for indoor and outdoor events.

Soul Full Food is the creation of Lucy and Felix, a young couple with a keen interest in conscious living.

“Our aim is to contribute to a sustainable future while having a low impact on the environment and a big impact on people’s health”.

They make specialist raw food “to maximise nutritional benefits” and cooked foods too, all using the finest quality organic ingredients and superfoods.

All their food is gluten, grain and

Permaculture starters and main course OUR friends at Landmatters, the co-operative land project, are running an Introduction to Permaculture course in April – and if you get the taste for it, they’ve got a full residential permaculture design course running there in August.

The one-day introductory course, on Saturday April 30, 9.30am-5.30pm, costs £40 and will explain what permaculture is, how it came about and why

it is relevant today. It will be facilitated by Landmatters resident Randy Mayers, who says: “This introductory course is for anyone who believes we need to find ways to care for ourselves, for each other and for the Earth.”

Permaculture and Communities in Transition is a full residential design course, facilitated by Aranya plus guests.

The cost is £690 and includes all course materials, meals and camping (but not tents) and visits to inspiring projects within the local area.

To find out more or book, email landmatterscourses@ yahoo.co.uk or call 07766 022988.

unprocessed sugar-free – and 100% vegan and cruelty-free, using fair trade and organic ingredients.

They have just launched a raw food fine dining three-course catering service, as well as hot and cold food catering for indoor & outdoor events.

You can find the Soul Full Food stall at Friday and Saturday markets in Totnes and at the monthly Good Food Sunday market, also in Totnes.

They will also be trading at lots of local food events and festivals over the Summer – check out their calendar on www. soulfullfood.co.uk for further details. l Raw lasagne, left and, above, raw cake.

Wholefood shop invites in the community

A

SOUTH Devon wholefood store is celebrating 40 years of trading – and its owner is inviting the community to play a part in its running in the future.

Sacks Wholefoods, in The Narrows at the top of the High Street in Totnes, quickly established itself at the centre of the town’s growing ‘alternative’ scene when it opened in 1976.

The current owner, David Saunderson, is celebrating his fifth year behind the counter and now feels the shop would benefit from an injection of new energy.

“It feels like the right time for a change – for me and the shop,” says David. “I’d love to see some form of community involvement in the future and invite any interested individuals or groups to get in touch.”

He would also like to hear from any local wholefood producers or manufacturers, who want to sell, or

E To

SUBSCRIB

SCHOOL

trial, products in the shop.

Meanwhile, plans for a Sacks 40th birthday celebration are taking shape.

“It would be good, for example, to hold a party for anyone who’s ever worked in the shop,” he said. Contact David if you’d like to get involved or have any other ideas to mark the anniversary.

Sacks Too, the sister shop that was opened to provide a wholefood outlet at the bottom of the town when Green Life moved to the top of the High Street, is expected to close at the end of April, the plan being to reopen when suitable premises become available at the bottom of Fore Street.

“I would like to thank all my customers and staff, past and present, for their support over the years,”

said David. “I look forward to the shop’s continued success.”

To contact David, call him on on 01803 863263.

FARM

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For more information visit www.schoolfarmcsa.org.uk

E: members@schoolfarmcsa.org.uk • T: 07898 117890

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Call Andy on 07980 746622 - www.laydilay.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co.uk

School Farm - get along to their open day.

LOCAL PRODUCE

Community veg project opens gates

T

HERE’S a chance to see behind the scenes at the School Farm community supported agricultural scheme when they open their gates for a Spring open day on Saturday April 16.

“Come & celebrate a fantastic community organic farm in Dartington,” says the project’s Jenny Gellatly.

“It’s a great chance to learn about the project, meet the growers and perhaps become a member. We’ll also be selling delicious seasonal and creative burgers with salads - as well as cake!”

School Farm CSA is a membership farming scheme where the members of the farm commit to buying a share of the farm’s harvest, which comes in the form of a weekly vegbox.

This allows the farm to invest in the year ahead, knowing that it has the support to continue and that the produce will be grown to meet the demand.

One of the scheme members, Clare, says: “This will be our second year as part of the School Farm CSA community and we enjoy the fact that we can be as involved (or as little) as we want. We receive monthly CSA newsletters with recipes and farm updates, and are invited to attend events, family open days, volunteer days and courses at the farm.

“From June until the end of December we get a weekly box filled to the brim with locally grown, freshly harvested seasonal veg. Typically, there are around 10 different

SACKS wholefoods Celebrating its 40th year of trading

• • • • vegetables in each box. For example, a typical box in July contains salad, cucumber, carrots, heritage tomatoes, peppers, runner beans, broccoli, new potatoes, courgettes and spring onions. And if, like me, you have a fussy child in your household, you can swap any veg items that won’t be eaten with items in the excess box.

“Membership works out at excellent value for money – roughly £15 per week. And some members even privately organise to box-share with a friend or neighbour, so it can work out even cheaper. It’s encouraged us to eat more fruit and veg - and to think about how we spend our money to support our local economy and wildlife.

“We’re looking forward to growing membership again this year and to what foodie delights the 2016 season brings!”

Visit www.schoolfarmcsa.org.uk.

Organic fruit and vegetables Large range of herbs and spices Bulk and case discounts Special orders catered for

SACKS 80 High St Totnes TQ9 5SN

01803 863263 david@sackswholefoods.co.uk

Food project needs your help A COMMUNITY food project is looking for temporary premises and asks if a Reconnect reader has a garage or similar they could use.

Grown in Totnes is a Transition Town Totnes project working with local farmers to create a market for locally produced and processed grains, peas and beans.

“This area is renowned for its rich choice of local food - but that choice does not include these plant based proteins,” said the project’s Holly Tiffen.

“This year we are purchasing local organic wheat and we are

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looking for temporary premises to house our milling operation. We need a dry, clean location, ideally in central Totnes, or nearby, where we can mill and sieve flour as well as storing both the grain and the flour once it has been produced.

“An empty garage would be ideal. We are purchasing a small portable electric mill and sieve and need a space of approximately 4x5m or bigger.”

If you can help, or you want to know more about Grown in Totnes, email holly@ transitiontowntotnes.org or call 01803 867358.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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news&views So much on offer - accessible to all

H

ANNAHS at Seale-Hayne is more than an amazing group of buildings full of incredible equipment and facilities, run by a great bunch of people. Though it is all of those things.

Open to the public seven days a week as a social enterprise, Seale-Hayne offers an incredible range of facilities, including arts, live music, recording studio, outdoor pursuits, shops, farm, artists’ studios, bistro, health and wellbeing centre – all of which raise money for the work that Hannahs does for the disabled.

And it is also a working, living and successful example of how disability and disabled people should, and can, be part of things, simply by creating an environment that is open to everyone.

Since it opened in 2010, Seale Hayne has focussed on including people of all abilities.

Award-winning chef Dino Pavledis serves amazing food in the Bistro throughout the day - including vegetables grown by Hannahs guests on site. Visitors can also take advantage of the hydrotherapy pool and visit the therapists in the Health and Wellbeing Centre, while the more active can choose from a range of outdoor activities including bushcraft or mountain biking.

Seale-Hayne also offers an extensive range of newly refurbished and fully

accessible accommodation, including luxury safari tents for those who enjoy glamping, making it perfect for short breaks, holidays and residential events.

Throughout the year Hannahs organises a variety of key events at Seale-Hayne, like the Christmas Fayre, Ball and Outdoor Film Festival, all of which raise vital funds for Hannahs.

Art is a major part of life at Seale-Hayne with a variety of exhibitions taking place in the Gallery alongside regular art sessions for people with disabilities. Recently From Syria with Love, a moving exhibition of drawings by Syrian refugee children, created a lot of interest.

And this Summer, from JuneSeptember, the highlight of the Gallery programme will be Illustrating Harry Potter, a showcase of original illustrations, sketches, models and final prints from the brand new edition of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, illustrated by Jim Kay. And whatever event you attend, or facilities you get involved in (any bands out there make use of a fully-equipped recording studio?), you know that

your money goes directly towards Hannahs charity’s work with people with disabilities.

Hannahs at Seale-Hayne is off the A383 Newton Abbot to Ashburton road and has free entry and parking.

Call 01626 325800 or visit www. discoverhannahs.org/seale-hayne.

Just part of the amazing Seale Hayne range of buildings, top, and horticulture is one of the centre’s many activities, above.

We are Kingfisher Print & Design.

Working in partnership with Reconnect to print this magazine in an environmentally responsible way

www.kingfisherprint.co.uk sales@kingfisherprint.co.uk 01803 867087

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Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk Manifest moves on to pastures new

F

OR 20 years now, adult men and their sons, young men, and boys who are friends of adults, have gathered on Dartmoor to spend four nights and four days, “celebrating being alive and with our brothers”.

Manifest is a camp that generally takes place in the half-term week of the Summer term, so this year that means from Wednesday June 1 to Sunday June 5.

But what we can’t say is exactly what will happen there – because no-one yet knows.

“Nothing is decided until the first morning,” said Jason Burns, a member of the committee. “When everyone gathers, to find out about each other, and to put ideas into the melting pot.

“So if someone has a burning desire to do something, it’s highly possible that it can happen! Previous camps have included sharing spaces, woodcarving, archery, dancing, qi-gong, storytelling, capture the flag, ultimate frisbee, ceremony, walking, swimming, sitting around the fire, blacksmithing, making a fire sculpture, singing, wild art, and watching the sun come up and go down!”

Now the camp is 21, they decided to look around and see if there was a bigger site available and, after many hours of searching and some boggy walks over rough terrain, the committee is excited to announce that Dunnabridge Farm, a quite

THE way funerals have changed in recent years is remarkable, with around 50% now being without a religious minister and that proportion is higher for funerals of people under the age of 75.

A funeral celebrant will reflect the life, values and beliefs of the person who has died and whatever level of formality is preferred. You can choose any music and songs, any readings and poetry, and still include a bit of religion, a hymn or a prayer if you want to.

Another change is the rise of woodland and natural burials.

There are 13 sites in Devon and we have held funerals at many

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NOTHING tastes as good (or is as good for us) as produce picked fresh in season, says our foodie, JANE HUTTON

Enjoy a true taste of Springtime

A beautiful and spacious location (and a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of its ancient flower meadows), between Badgers Holt and Two Bridges, is the venue for Manifest 2016.

“Some may be put off because Manifest sounds a bit ‘wild’” says Jason. “Well, it’s true, there is no portaloo, and cooking is over the fire, but it’s not a rough camp – it’s safe and held, while also offering the space for a bit of the wild warrior in us to emerge.”

It’s important that camp members experience a sense of connection with each other, so there are regular ‘check-ins’, to get a sense of how people are doing. And, if the camp is up for it, one night can be dedicated to a feast and cabaret (though there are plenty of audience members, so there’s no pressure to perform!).

To find out more, contact Jason Burns (jaybee9933@gmail. com/07886 353504) or Lloyd Skett (lloydlove21@hotmail.com/07591 452716). The cost of the camp is £60 for men and £30 for boys, with an early booking discount (before May 1) of £50 / £25.

Redefining the funeral experience IN the latest of his occasional Postcards From The Edge, Simon Smith (right), of Heart and Soul Funerals, looks at how funerals are changing.

Naturally nourishing

of them. These tend to be informal and families and friends can take ownership and more control of the proceedings.

Being out in nature is inspiring and comforting and gives the opportunity for ‘moments of grace’, an owl hooting as the coffin is lowered in the early afternoon, a fox walking by, a shaft of sunlight from a dark sky.

Over 70% of people are cremated, but many want to avoid the constraints of the crematorium and hold the ceremony elsewhere.

In our beautiful ceremony hall, a light and airy stone barn on the banks of the River Dart, you can take as much time as you like and stay on for food and refreshments.

Many people come out saying “I never knew a funeral could be like that”. Well it can, whatever you choose it to be, expressing love and spirit, a funeral with heart and soul.

S Spring establishes itself and we come out of hibernation (well, I do anyway!), thoughts turn to the sprouting and blooming beginning to show all around us.

At this time of year, I’m inevitably planning what gorgeous fruit and vegetables are going to grace my garden during the Summer. I really look forward to browsing the racks of seeds – the choice is truly spectacular, and seems to get broader every year.

Equally inevitably though, I end up plumping for my perennial favourites: peas, broad beans, courgettes, French beans, runner beans, and spinach to go with the raspberries, rhubarb, blueberries and blackcurrants already resident.

The rituals of preparing the ground, planting the seeds, and waiting with delicious anticipation for the first delicate green tendrils to break the surface of the soil can’t be beaten.

There’s something very special about growing your own produce, even just a few fruit bushes to go out and pick from for breakfast during the summer.

And here we touch on the whole point of fruit and vegetables. They have a season and a reason.

If you look at the nutritional profiles of what is naturally grown in each area of the UK, or even each country, you’ll find that what is

available at any particular time has everything we need to stay healthy and happy.

We’ve not only got enormous choice in supermarkets, but availability all year round. This can make us think that eating a broad diet means including all these exotic foods our grandparents (or even our parents) never had access to.

The problem with that isn’t so much the wide choice, it’s the provenance – imported, heavily sprayed, sitting around en route to our supermarket shelves before ending up on our tables. Are they nearly as nutritious as what is grown locally, in season? The answer to that is a resounding no!

Compare a strawberry lovingly grown locally to a strawberry from outside the UK, and you’d be shocked at the difference. From the pesticide gas used to ensure a pest-free harvest to the degradation in nutrients the moment the berries are picked (regardless of the cold transport), your local strawberry is the one packed to the green stem with incredible antioxidants.

The early season asparagus is always a joy, almost by virtue of its short season. So lovely lightly steamed, drizzled with melted butter or hollandaise, chopped into a salad, or in tarts (see my recipe)… cooked al dente, its crisp crunch and fresh flavour remind us that Spring has sprung!

Asparagus Pesto Cheese Tart INGREDIENTS: 50g pesto (storebought or try the Omega Pesto recipe for Foodie members on my site); 16 to 20 asparagus spears; 150g cherry tomatoes, halved; 150g feta, crumbled; 150g shredded mozzarella (optional); 1 pack of puff pastry METHOD: Preheat oven to 190C. Line a baking sheet with greaseproof paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry to an even rectangle and cut into four equal rectangles. To make things easier, separate and prepare on the baking

sheet. Score about half an inch in to make a border, then prick inside the border with a fork to prevent too much rise. Spread the pesto on the rectangles, inside the border. Top with asparagus spears, tomatoes, and cheeses. You can wrap the asparagus spears in ham or prosciutto for a savoury kick, or scatter cooked bacon shards among the veg. Bake for about 25 minutes until golden and bubbling beautifully. Serve warm, alone, with salad or sides, as a lunch or main meal.

Naturally Nourishing is written by nutritionist and “confirmed foodie” Jane Hutton. Visit her new website, www. functional-foodie.com, and sign up for programmes, recipes and advice.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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ECO HOMES

How green is YOUR home?

IF you live in an eco house, or run a business that makes other people’s houses greener, we’d love to hear from you. Call Martin on 01803 868455 or email editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

AURO paints - natural ingredients so they’re healtheir for you and the planet.

ABUNDANT GARDENS High quality and top eco credentials Helping you get the most from your garden

It’s time to plant and prepare for an abundant year ahead.

I can help with: * General tidying * Organic Vegetables * Wildlife gardens * Permaculture * Raised beds * Composting * Pruning Call Ross today and LET’S GET GROWING!

07811 608359 www.abundantgardens.uk

S

O what’s your priority when choosing paint products for your home? All natural ingredients to ensure they’re kind on the planet? No synthetic chemicals to ensure they’re kind on you? Or maybe a high quality finish is top of your shopping list.

AURO claim they’re ticking all those boxes and, despite not being the best-known brand in the UK, they have actually been on sale in the UK for over 20 years – and they’ve been manufacturing for more than 30.

All colours are still mixed by hand, using only natural pigments, at their

premises in Gloucestershire, which is entirely powered by renewable energy and harvested rainwater.

And they offer a wide range of breatheable finishes that are durable and frequently compared favourably against recognised highend, designer paints. AURO have also developed special finishes to breakdown airborne pollutants and products to prevent mould.

They’ve got products to suit almost all domestic projects, inside and out, and they’ve been the product of choice on some big eco construction projects too.

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

ReFURNISH Helping people and reducing waste

ReFURNISH your home with furniture and appliances at prices you can afford* *Discounts on proof of benefit entitlement

SHOPS AT WRANGATON, NEWTON ABBOT, TOTNES, BUCKFASTLEIGH, CREDITON & TAVISTOCK + Upcycling - The ReSTORE @ Dartington Shops

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FREE COLLECTION of reusable furniture, appliances & other household goods.

FIREWOOD

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Planks, cladding, rocket-logs, raised beds and timber for all your needs.

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Natural Wood

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£75 per m3 - Free delivery within 7 miles

ROCKET LOGS

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QUALITY TIMBER

Call Doug on 07976589927 or visit www.thehillyfield.co.uk

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ECO HOMES

Ross helps you discover abundance SO Spring is here and it’s time to get stuck into the garden and get some fruit and veg growing.

But do you have the necessary knowhow to make the most of your plot? Or maybe you’re short of time or energy to make the most of nature’s abundance?

Enter Ross Adams who can help you prepare, plant and sow and maintain your garden.

He can help with anything from general tidying to full garden design, including the creation of wildlife areas, sowing and planting, creating raised beds, and setting up compost bins. He’s also knowledgeable in all matters organic and permaculture.

Ross is also a really nice guy – very

important when you’re inviting someone to spend time in your garden, maybe working at your side.

Find out more at www. abundantgardens.uk or call him on 07811 608359.

Handmade Garden Gates & Fences Natural rustic style Bespoke Designs in Green Cleft Wood Alastair Inglis 07796 805453 al.inglis@yahoo.co.uk

A recent ReSTORE sculpture with creators, Linda and Albert.

Find new life in furniture and ‘junk’

T

HE community furniture recycling project Refurnish continues to find new life in furniture and household goods.

The main showroom in Wrangaton (just ½-mile from park & ride/ Modbury junction on A38) now features an Antiques Corner where antique and vintage items restored by the Refurnish experts are put on sale.

And some particularly high-value items are being sold through the Refurnish charity eBay account.

“It’s great that we are able to find new homes for some of these more valuable items, “ said Refurnish chief executive David Banks. “And, more importantly, it means we are maximizing our income to subsidise discount on other stock for pensioners and those on benefits.”

The ReSTORE, Refurnish’s store and workshop at The Shops in Dartington, is inviting the public to take along non-electrical household items that need attention.

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Their Repair Café runs from 10am1pm on the last Saturday of every month, and offers volunteer expert help and advice – plus tea coffee and cake.

The Repair Café is free but any donations made go towards the ReSTORE project.

And on Saturday May 21, the ReSTORE is holding a Junk Challenge from 10am-2pm, when anyone can drop by and create something from ‘junk’.

‘We have built up lots of interesting discarded bits and pieces just begging for your creativity and imagination to bring to life,” says Emma Capper, assistant project coordinator. “Creations can be big or small, functional or decorative.

And if you have any interesting trash at home as a starting point bring it along. “ Visit www.refurnish.org.uk/stores or to contact ReSTORE, email dartington@refurnish.org.uk.

A NATURAL CHOICE NATURAL PAINTS, WOOD STAINS, OILS, WAXES AND DECORATING PRODUCTS HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS THAT ARE GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH AND THE PLANET

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE AURO RANGE AT WWW.AURO.CO.UK

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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news&views Donovan tops bill at festival ONE of the biggest festivals on the local calendar has the legendary Donovan topping this year’s bill alongside The Blockheads and The Stranglers.

Organisers of Chagstock say they are delighted to have signed the Scottish folk-rock star known for songs like Mellow Yellow and Sunshine Superman, which was a US number one single.

Over the course of his 50year musical career, Donovan has performed with legends including Pete Seeger, Joan Baez and Bob Dylan, Led Zeppelin and Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones. He was also one of the few non-band members to co-write with The Beatles, collaborating on Yellow Submarine.

Also on the Chagstock bill are punk icons The Stranglers and The Blockheads, who were formed in 1977 to promote Ian Dury’s album New Boots and Panties.

Chagstock runs July 22-23 near Okehampton and we’ll have more in the next issue – if you can’t wait, visit www. chagstock.info.

Grow your own food - the perfect place to start a more fulfilling lifestyle.

Permaculture a way of life

I

F you thought permaculture was just about growing food, think again. Permaculture is all about creating sustainable, abundant and thriving systems inspired by the principles of ecology.

Permaculture teacher Caroline Aitken says we can design our human habitats according to these same principles so they, too, function in a self-sustaining and productive way.

Caroline points out that growing our own food can be a great place to start when it comes to living a healthy, fulfilling and green lifestyle: “Our current centralised food distribution systems are hugely energy-intensive and rely heavily on chemical fertilisers. Even if we buy organic food, we are often eating vegetables that have travelled many miles and are far from fresh. Industrial scale agriculture requires many damaging inputs and produces many damaging outputs, so the more we can support small scale local growers or, ideally, grow our own food, the better.”

Caroline tells her students that growing food is both empowering and good for our health which, in her book, makes studying

permaculture a bit of a no-brainer: “To be able to feed ourselves with good, nutritious, toxin-free food is a big step in taking control of our health and wellbeing. A recent scientific study found that when our skin comes into contact with the soil, ‘feel-good’ brain chemicals are released. Most of us gardeners already knew that!”

Digging is a bit of a no-no according to the principles of permaculture; it damages microorganisms which make the soil fertile and breaks down the structure, leaving it vulnerable to erosion and compaction. It’s also hard work! Instead, permaculture enthusiasts advocate using surface

mulches which replicate nature and promote happier soil life, less water evaporation, increased fertility and – gardeners will love this - no weeds. There are some other basic rules too, such as rotating crops and growing combinations of plants together (known as polyculture).

If you are interested in finding out more, Caroline is holding a four-day course covering some of the basics of permaculture. Permaculture Gardening: Seed to Table takes place at High Heathercombe on Dartmoor from May 18-22. It costs £350 or £230 concessions.

Email Mel at high@heathercombe. com or call 07791 601737.

COME AND VISIT HANNAHS at SEALE-HAYNE A great day out for all the family BISTRO LIVE MUSIC HEALTH & WELLBEING CENTRE ARTIST STUDIOS GALLERY EXHIBITIONS SHOPS & FARM CHILDREN’S TRAIL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES CONFERENCING ACCOMMODATION

OPEN TO EVERYONE | 7 DAYS A WEEK | FREE ENTRY 10 mins drive from Ashburton along the A383 towards Newton Abbot.

www.discoverhannahs.org/seale-hayne 01626 325 800 | enquiries@discoverhannahs.org Newton Abbot, TQ12 6NQ | /discoverhannahs @discoverhannahs Dame Hannah Roger’s School, registered charity no. 306948. Dame Hannah Rogers Trust, a limited company registered in England and Wales with number 5512987, and registered as a charity with number 1148882, and whose registered office address is at Woodland Road, Ivybridge, Devon PL21 9HQ is the sole trustee of Dame Hannah Roger’s School.

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NEWS&views New ideas on new economy THERE’S a chance to link up with organisers, activists, practitioners, and others working for economic change at the Devon New Economy Gathering.

The organisers say: “There are exciting community-led economic solutions to austerity emerging across the region, as well as effective strategies, innovative projects and energetic collaborators. This is a chance to find out who’s working on a new, more inclusive, democratically accountable local economy that creates more wellbeing.”

The gathering is at Exeter Community Centre, 10am-5pm on April 16, and tickets are £20/£10/£5 at www.eventbrite. co.uk/e/devon-neweconomy-gatheringtickets-22657867291.

Wildheart fest

WE’LL have more on this one in the next issue, but get August 12-14 in your diary - they’re the dates of the 2016 Wildheart Gathering.

Expect music, workshops, comedy and the spoken word, wellbeing, green crafts, talks, dance, permaculture and all manner of festival food and drink – all in a beautiful Dartmoor setting.

More at www. wildheartgathering. com and in our June/ July issue, out at the end of May.

BEAUTIFUL ROOMS for Therapy and Healing.

FOR TALKING THERAPIES AND HOLISTIC HEALTH

Locals save £150 on top college courses

www.thepracticerooms.co.uk 15 - 16 Castle Street, Exeter EX4 3PT

S

CHUMACHER College is known around the world for its transformative courses for sustainable living and personal development. And people travel from far and wide to take part in its residential courses.

But did you know that we South Devon locals are offered a £150 discount because we don’t need the accommodation?

There’s an impressive programme of short courses coming up over the next month.

April 11-15 sees ecological educators David Abram and Stephan Harding “interweave their and our experience of an animate earth” on Dark Ecology: Into the Depths of a Breathing Planet.

Fire In The Heart - Tracking the Poetry of our Lives, which also runs April 11-15, explores the practice of poetry and creative writing as ways of accessing our own internal guidance – “the poet inside all of us”, with Jay Ramsay, Peter Owen Jones and, by Skype, special guest Andrew Harvey.

For those who want to “make deep sustainability possible and find personal and collective liberation through a ‘new policy of life’”, there’s Enlivenment and Liberation: Bringing ‘Aliveness’ Back To Our World and Lives, from April 18-22, with Andreas Weber and guests Stephan Harding, Satish Kumar and (by videolink) David Bollier.

And also from April 18-22 there’s a chance to learn the primitive skills of foraging, firemaking, wandering and listening before meeting around the hearth, the heart of our community, “to traverse together the old tracks and ancient pathways towards living closely and simply in nature.” This is with Jessie Watson Brown and Jane Robertson (‘The Stone Age Women’) and Mac Macartney.

To find out more about these and other courses at Schumacher College, visit www. schumachercollege.org.uk.

Playback Theatre Performances by Tarte Noire – WOMEN ONLY TOTNES

TEIGNMOUTH

‘Elemental Journeys 1 What Sets you on Fire?’

‘What Sets You On Fire?’

Tarte Noire invite you to be part of an ongoing open conversation about our lives as women Tuesday, 3rd May Tuesday, 17th May Tuesday, 21st June at Bogan House, High Street, TQ9 5NP Entrance: £10 / £8 donation

Tuesday, 7th June at The Ice Factory, 10 Somerset Place, TQ14 8EN Entrance: £10 / £8 concession Tickets available from The Ice Factory and on the door

ALL PERFORMANCES start at 8.00pm (doors 7.45pm)

Grief support sessions on donation basis DESCRIBING herself as “a veteran of the grief terrain”, Carmella B’Hahn is offering her Thriving Through Grief support sessions on a donation basis for 12 months, starting in February.

Carmella said: “The end of February was my son Benjaya’s death anniversary and this year would have been his 30th birthday.

“In gratitude for the support I received back then in the depths of my grief, and in celebration of his

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30th birthday year, I have decided to offer my grief support sessions by donation.

“I want anyone who needs assistance through a tough patch of grief to know that I am here for them and, based on my own experience, can help them navigate their way through what seems, at times, unbearable.”

For more information contact Carmella on 01803 867005, email carmella@heartofrelating.com, or visit www.heartofrelating.com.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

21

Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk

MORE FOLLOWS...*

I’ll walk beside them...

WHAT, editor Foster’s ramblings here on page 22?

And with a new name?

Apologies to those of you who have difficulties around change...

THE Green Funeral Company’s RUPERT CALLENDER, below, reflects on loss - and something we gain

Bring us your ideas (and money)!

W

ELL I could hardly call it ‘And finally...’ when it’s not even half way through the mag, could I? I’ll explain later why I went for ‘More follows...’, but first let me tell you why I’m here on page 22.

And then I’ve got something that requires some input from you...

So, I was actually squeezed out of my usual place opposite the inside back cover, simply because the Wellbeing section became so busy. A flood of new advertisers, plus the regulars - and so much editorial because they all have so much to say. As more and more people take responsibility for their own health, and still more explore within themselves to resolve those troubling issues or discover their true potential, practitioners and clients need somewhere to communicate.

And within the Wellbeing section, the conversation is rich and lively.

Things are equally vibrant here in the front half of the mag.

Spring is always a time for new beginnings, especially in nature, and as the issue came together so the stories of new events and outdoor activities continued to flood in. If early signs are anything to go by, and they usually are, this is going to be one busy and creative year.

Reconnect is of course free so we rely on local businesses wanting to advertise with us to make it all work. As you can see, they too have plenty to say and we’re delighted to welcome newcomers Schumacher College, Lupton House, Hannahs at Seale Hayne, Auro Paints, Dartington Hall Trust and more, as well as the regulars, some of whom have been with us for years.

And extra advertising, as well as paying the bills, also means we have more space to carry articles and editorials - in this issue, four extra pages because we’ve been able to go up to 48.

All this is great news for you, the readers - and not just because there’s so much more to read and enjoy.

A community-based magazine like Reconnect is a reflection of the area it serves. In short, there is only so much going on in here because there is so much going on out there. As it says on the cover, Reconnect is powered by people!

So all this new sustainable

22

businesses, new events and increased community involvement across South Devon gives us so much more to write about in Reconnect. We spread the word across South Devon, more people get involved... and that leads to yet more activity. Sustainability in action.

But there’s another by-product of all this activity and enthusiasm and involvement - creativity.

It’s almost like a fuel; an energy that powers the imagination, drives the ideas factory.

Look at it like this. We have Reconnect: hugely popular and successful. People know what it stands for. You might even say it’s a powerful brand.

And where could we go from here? More editions? More online activity? Events? We have some ideas and we’ve done a little work towards exploring their feasibility - but we are a little busy producing a magazine a lot of the time...

So we’d like to hear from you. If you have publishing experience, get in touch. If you have ideas about what else Reconnect could do, get in touch. If you have money you’d like to invest, get in touch. Yes, it all requires initial investment, so we’d especially like to hear from you.

This isn’t a Dragon’s Den-style pitch (or even a Community Dragons pitch - see page 7).

We haven’t worked up a solid proposal for which we’re seeking investment in exchange for..etc, etc.

But we do have some ideas and we are open to hearing yours.

So if you believe in what Reconnect is, and does, and you’d like to play a part in its future, do please get in touch let’s start the conversation.

*

So why have I called it ‘More follows...’? Well, back when we journos used to produce our stories on pieces of paper, the bottom of each page would carry the tag ‘mf...’ meaning more follows; the story continues on the next sheet And the final sheet would close with ‘ends’. ‘mf’ are also my initials, of course, and it struck me that it’s also not a bad theme for life (and, who knows, maybe for death?).

More follows. But for now...

-ends-

in Mart

L

AST year, my third and final parent died, my darling stepfather Richard, lost to Alzheimer’s as so many of us will be, a year or so before his strong and loving heart gave out.

For me it was huge. For the first time in the sixteen years that Claire and I have been undertakers, I had to both prepare, bury, eulogise and mourn one of my own. I finally walked the walk I talk to the families we meet each week.

It was everything it should be, transcendent, heartbreaking, cathartic and uplifting.

Claire and I dressed him together, weeping and talking to him, commonplace in so many other cultures, and something we try to encourage the families we help to do as well I cut locks of his hair for family members who I thought would want some. I didn’t ask them, just handed them his hair, so silver and lush, always his crowning glory. They wept in just the right way, deeply and spontaneously from the heart. We praised him, lamented him and lowered him into the ground together.

A month or so earlier, the other strong male influence in my life died, my fifteen year old Lurcher Carter.

He had become disorientated, deaf and crippled by arthritis. We had to make the decision to put him down, which was like making a decision to cut off my hand. My children could not remember a time without him, he was their protector and comforter and friend. He even had a role written specifically for him in each of their long, experimental, chaotic plays we sat through each summer. To be honest his range was limited and he was always typecast; exit pursued by a happy dog.

He was cremated, and his bones loosely ground in a way which seems so different from the dusty powder we humans become after being cremated.

Perhaps this is because there is no grey ash of a coffin to adulterate his bones, but they are beautiful, like coral, with malachite green and deep azure blues, lumps of minerals, the Osteoporosis clearly visible, the holes that life punches through both our bones and our brains, the pure light of energy inconceivable to us bursting back through our solid flesh to reclaim itself.

Vials of his beautiful bone fragments sit on one daughter’s bedside table, catch the light on the other’s windowsill. On our family altar they sit beside the vial of my stepfather’s hair, for to me, now they are both gone, I can see they were the same spirit, powerful in their gentleness, delighted by the company of others, joyful to have walked through a flawed but beautiful world.

In my imagination, they walk together through the same endless Summer meadow. One day I hope to walk beside them.

Festival all over town

LOOK out for a new festival offering all kinds of events (films, literature, talks and lots of music) all over Totnes (five venues across town).

Sea Change runs over the Friday and Saturday of the August Bank Holiday, August 26 and 27.

Top of a very busy line-up is big-name band British Sea Power, but look out too for TOY, Bo Ningen, Richard Dawson, Yorkston Thorne Khan, BC Camplight, Rival Consoles, Ultimate Painting and more.

And look out for more in our next (June/July) issue, out at the end of May.

Classical gig

THE next concert from the Newton Abbot and District Society of Arts (nadsa) is a programme of music

by Debussy, Chopin and Beethoven (Diabelli Variations) at the Courtenay Centre in Newton Abbot. It starts at 7.30pm on Friday April 15. Full details and tickets at www.nadsa.co.uk.

Zen potter

INTERNATIONALLY renowned potter John Pollex is exhibiting at Plymouth’s 45 Southside Gallery from April 23-May 31.

John’s work is often a visual reference to his interest in Zen Buddhism, in particular the immediacy of brush strokes in Zen calligraphy. Visit www.45southside. co.uk.

Art show

NEWTON Abbot Art Group is holding an Art Exhibition at 4/5 Northumberland Place in Teignmouth from June 4-17. It will be open 10am-5pm daily with free admission.

Women in conversation about their lives TARTE Noire is inviting women to be part of “an ongoing open conversation about our lives as women” at their Playback Theatre performances.

Elemental Journeys 1 - What Sets you on Fire? will be at Bogan House in Totnes on Tuesday May 3, June 17 and June 21; and What Sets You

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On Fire will be at The Ice Factory in Teignmouth on June 7.

All performances start at 8pm (doors open 7.45pm) and entrance is £10/£8 concessions (tickets for the Teignmouth event are available from The Ice Factory).

Visit www.tartenoire.co.uk for more details.

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One of Samjhana’s portraits - the power of the image.

NEWS&views

Helping us see ourselves as others do

G

IVEN that we live in such a visual age, there can be few people who fail to recognise the importance of photography.

Here in Reconnect, you’ll notice editorials with photographs have more impact – and the best photographs have the greatest impact of all.

But photographer Samjhana Moon (who photographed the Reconnect team) says the power of image is important not just for professional growth – but for spiritual and personal growth too.

“What we see in the mirror is not what others see,” says Samjhana.

“We look in the mirror generally to see what needs fixing and with a

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critical eye. But others rarely see this - they see our positive emotions, our inner-radiance.

“When a photography session is approached with positive intention, ritual and celebration, the results can be truly transformative. They help us see ourselves in ways we’ve never seen before.

“Portraits that capture your essence and the qualities you wish to expand act as a powerful visual tool to connect you with your power, grace and beauty.”

Samjhana runs VIP Days for Entrepreneurs and Radiant Goddess Retreats with lifecoach Kate Harris. Find out more at www. goddessportraiture.co.uk.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

23

The Great Pottery Throw Down winner Matthew Wilcock - at the Contemporary Craft Festival in June.

Keep calm and step away!

N Top potter throws down gaunlet at craft show MORE than 10,000 people visited last year’s Contemporary Craft Festival, but the organisers are still promising an even bigger and better event this year.

The event will include The Festival Pottery Showdown, their version of the BBC TV series The Great Pottery Throw Down. TV winner Matthew Wilcock, and his fellow finalists Tom, Sally-Jo and Jim - will be special guest potters at the festival.

Internationally respected potter Kevin Millward has been confirmed as guest judge and challenge setter for the Showdown, which is presented in association with Plymouth College of Art, Potclays, Ceramic Review and Schumacher College, Dartington.

There will also be more than 200 of the UK’s finest makers at Mill Marsh Park in Bovey Tracey from June 10-12.

Visit http://craftsatboveytracey.co.uk for more.

Plan for new free school A NEW project in South Devon has plans to open a free school for secondary level children.

Meetings and outreach has so far demonstrated huge support and enthusiasm from education, countryside and arts organisations, as well as potential parents and students, says Laura Hetherington on behalf of The Dart School.

“Our vision is to offer more choice at secondary level and to open a school to complement the existing excellent education on offer within the area by offering a different approach,” she said.

“Our proposed school will focus on outdoor and creative learning with skills-based and real world learning activity at its heart. Social, moral and spiritual development as well as personal growth will take equal priority alongside academic excellence. Learning to learn and to develop a love of learning will be key.”

Laura says they are working with a group of passionate people with the right skills and experience to help them put together the application to make the vision a reality and they would love to hear from anyone interested in being involved.

Find out more at www.thedartschool.org or email at thedartschool@gmail.com.

24

ATURE is at its most bounteous and literally blooming with new life and colour in the Spring.

The RSPB’s Wildlife Enquiries Team receives hundreds of calls throughout April and May from well-meaning members of the public about the cute, helpless baby birds they have discovered on the ground. But it’s vital that people resist the urge to reveal their Superman t-shirts and intervene – this is a natural part of the bird’s development, so keep calm and step away.

Just before baby birds are ready to tentatively extend a wing, wiggle a tail feather and take flight for the first time, they leave their nest or fledge.

Fledglings then spend a couple of days on the ground developing their final flight feathers.

The fledglings will appear fully feathered and spend these days hopping around your garden in broad daylight - which is why so many people are convinced they need rescuing.

Another common fear is that the fledgling has been deserted by its parents. But fledglings are extremely unlikely to be abandoned. Mum and dad are probably off gathering food, or more likely hiding nearby with beady eyes on their young, waiting for you to back away. Parents know best and are more than capable of looking after their own.

Removing a fledgling from the wild significantly reduces its chances of long-term survival, so please don’t ‘kidnap’ the baby bird.

There are only a couple of situations when the public should lend a friendly helping hand...

SPRING is all about the birds and the bees.

MORWENNA ALLDIS from the RSPB tells us what to do if we find a baby bird on the ground. And below, Embercombe’s beekeeper TIM HALL tells us how to help our pollinator friends...

If a baby bird is found on a busy road or path, it would then be advisable to pick the bird up and move it a short distance to a safer place - but this must be within hearing distance of where the fledgling was found. Similarly, if you discover your cat or dog eyeing up a fledgling in your garden we recommend you endeavour to keep your domestic pet indoors for a couple of days - or at least around dawn and dusk.

If an injured fledgling is discovered this should be reported immediately to the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.

Sometimes local vets treat wild birds for free, but please check with them first.

If a very young baby bird

(unfeathered or covered only fluffy nestling down) is discov the ground, it has likely fallen its cosy nest ahead of schedu occasionally it is possible to p babies back in their nest, but you are 100% positive of the has fallen from.

It is also important to remem that sometimes a parent bird intentionally eject a chick fro

The bees’ needs must come first

A

S we enter our 8th year of caring for honeybees at Embercombe, I am noticing a shift towards even greater attention to putting the bees first, writes Tim Hall, beekeeper at Embercombe and CanonTeign Estate.

With bees still having to deal with the issues of loss of a bio-diverse habitat and therefore their food supply, in conjunction with the continued use of toxic chemicals in agricultural and domestic growing, now more than ever we need to find ways to support our pollinator friends.

When buying organic foods, you are helping bees by consciously choosing pesticide free growing processes. If you have a garden, patio or even a window box, there are a wide range of beautiful and useful plants that provide excellent food sources for bees throughout the Spring and Summer months.

Many of the medicinal and culinary herbs are great bee plants and if you are able to plant them in large clumps, so much the better. Leaving parts of the

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garden to rewild with wild flowers will also provide a bee-friendly habitat.

In many cases, beekeeping is still focussed around human wants - what we can get from the bees, rather than what the bees need.

Even practises like breeding docile bees for the benefit of the beekeeper, and designing beehives that allow for honey to flow out of a tap, are not prioritising the wellbeing of the bees and therefore continue to exacerbate our disconnection from them.

If we are to help the bees in their journey back to health and resilience, it is important to learn as much as we can about them so we can make informed decisions about their care.

Our Natural Beekeeping course at Embercombe focusses the learning around the natural lifecycle of the honeybee and has proved popular with those thinking of taking up beekeeping as well as those who just want to be more informed.

We share our experiences, some basic

bee knowledge as well as dis the different types of hive, bu with the understanding that th we keep the bees in is not as as the attitude we adopt, and decisions we take, in our app beekeeping.

For more information on Emb beekeeping courses, please vi embercombe.org/bees.

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Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk New project at old school

A swallow feeding its young, above, and young swallows take up their places on a fence, left. Pictures courtesy of RSPB.

y in its vered on n out of ule. Very put these t only if e nest it

mber d will om the

scussing ut always he box that s important d the proach to

nest if they sense it has an underlying health problem or is dying. It’s a harsh truth to stomach - as humans we want to fix things, but sometimes we need to allow the law of nature to run its course.

There are lots of ways you can help give nature a home in your own back garden, visit our webpage for loads of helpful tips: www.rspb.org.uk/ givenatureahome‎

Embercombe beekeeper Tim Hall and a young enthusiast. Tim’s Natural Beekeeping course focusses on the natural lifecycle of the honeybee.

bercombe’s visit www.

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A NEW community-led project has been set up to facilitate the use of two rooms in a former school on Dartington Estate.

The Aller Park Community Collective is described

by Dartington Trust as a “community-led model of curation as a ‘meanwhile’ use for two rooms in Aller Park”.

And one of the main groups using the facility is The Aller Park Project, a collective of practitioners with interests in (“but not limited to”) cosmology, astronomy, astrology, shamanic studies, subtle earth energies and counselling.

“We see the project as a centre of education, a resource for the local and for the wider community and as a contribution toward planetary healing and reconciliation,” says the project’s David Matthews.

Events there have already included creative drawing classes, meditation groups, healing sessions and discussions on astrology/ cosmology. Many more are planned for coming months.

To find out more, contact David Matthew at dave@ starlynx.plus.com, or call 01803 867145.

NEWS&views

Jeff Sleeman Life Coaching, Personal Development and Wellbeing

“Simple and profound techniques to get you to where you want and need to go” T: 01392 811 168 | M: 07977 272 174 contact@jeffsleeman.com | www.jeffsleeman.com

Empowering families across Devon & Cornwall since 1999

Community’s big legal fight STEWARD Wood is an offgrid woodland community on Dartmoor that has been living and working in the woods for 16 years.

They live on 32 acres of plantation woodland on a steep hillside, located in the beautiful Wray Valley on the edge of Dartmoor. The community was founded in 2000 and currently consists of 12 adults and nine children.

Now though they are facing eviction and are out to raise £38,000 in order to mount an effective legal challenge to the latest planning authority decision to refuse them permanent planning permission.

If you want to donate to their Crowdfunder fighting fund or help in any other way (spreading the word is one of the best things you can do – after you’ve handed over your dosh), visit http:// save.stewardwood.org/, where you can also watch a film about their low-impact community.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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wellbeing email: wellbeing@reconnectonline.co.uk

THE natural health and personal development PAGES Inside wellbeing...

Finding Active Hope

What meditation really means Living with loss or illness All you need is within you Centre marks first anniversary

27 28 30 31

A new journey A to B - by horse 32

Sarah’s inspiring massage Antoinett communicates with life The Women’s Wisdom Dial......

Free tasters at centre open day

33 35 37 42

01392 422555 e: info@enhc.org w: www.enhc.org

And there’s lots more to read inside

Inspired by ecosoul connection

D

ONE running with wolves? How about writing with horses?

That’s the message from Roselle Angwin, organiser of The Wild Ways programme, which uses writing in wild outdoor spaces to explore our relationship to the land and other animals.

Roselle said: “My passion is exploring how writing/creative expression in general can illuminate and serve our relationship to the human but more especially the more-than-human world.

I call this ecosoul – a programme of ecological imagination.

“This June, I am running a Horse Medicine weekend on Exmoor, which will provide participants with a deeper connection with horses Roselle helps people find inspiration in nature. through felt experience and writing. Earlier the Europe. Together we’ll explore the same month, I am hosting a writing ancient sites, holy wells and coast and walking retreat among the cliffs path of this magical area, after and ancient sites of West Cornwall. starting each day with some quiet These programmes will help people writing and the inspiration of some to connect with wild nature and/ poetry of place.” or the wisdom of animals in a Horse Medicine is a non-residential profound way.” weekend at Timberscombe, near Poetry, Place and Pilgrimage takes Dunster in Somerset. The cost is place from June 9-14 at Boswedden £145.

House in Cape, Cornwall. The cost For more information visit the is £575, including en-suite, shared website http://thewildways.co.uk/ room accommodation and meals. weekend-residentials/. To book, Roselle said: “The far west of call Roselle on 01548 821004 or Cornwall has one of the densest email roselle@fire-in-the-head. concentrations of megalithic sites in co.uk.

Kate Philbin

How can we help?

IF you are looking for complementary therapists or personal development practitioners in South Devon, you’ve come to the right place.

And if you work in natural health and want to spread the word, this is your natural home.

A 1/8-page advertisement, like those below, can be yours for just £41.85 a month. A 1/4-page is £66.60 a month.

And our Wellbeing editor, Kate Philbin, will write the editorial free of charge.

Our designers will even put the artwork together for you - for prices that would make most graphic designers run for the hills.

The Wellbeing deadline for the next (June/July) issue is May 1 - get in touch and let’s talk.

Call Martin on 01804 868455 or email adverts@ reconnectonline. co.uk

The Children’s Reflexology Programme Our fun, interactive workshops enable anybody to make use of simple, gentle reflexology to improve health, strengthen bonds, and help at difficult times.

Susan Quayle Complementary Healthcare

Visit our website and find an instructor near you or even become an instructor yourself!

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WELLBEING

Y

H

home with their children.

AVE you ever wondered what 4 Reiki is great for stress it is that draws management. people to particular I spent many years therapies? We asked working with musicians, the Principal of The both on the road and Devon School of Reiki, at home, using Reiki to Samantha Goddard help with stress, focus to share why she loves and performance. Reiki Reiki. These are her top is a great way to reduce five reasons: stress on many levels, 1 Reiki empowers us to and produces a feeling heal ourselves.

Samantha Goddard of deep relaxation and Reiki is a gentle and wellbeing. effective system of energy 5 Reiki helps us to shape our lives as work that activates our body’s own we want them to be. natural ability to heal itself. If we Reiki helps to promote selfchoose to progress, we can literally development, allowing us to be at our take our healing into our own hands. optimum to deal with all aspects of 2 Reiki is for everyone. life, and to make choices that help us As a safe, natural and non-invasive fulfill our true potential as individuals. healing system, Reiki can benefit The Devon School of Reiki provides everyone, from young babies to the Reiki training to individuals, groups elderly. A Reiki treatment can be and children. The school provides received hands-on or hands-off, training in all levels of Reiki, as well as seated or lying down, and even at a offering a private clinic in Exeter for distance. individual sessions and Reiki massage, 3 Children respond amazingly to Reiki.

Reiki shares, retreats,meditations and one-day workshops.

My son was the inspiration behind ‘Reiki Rascals’ as I found Reiki to be For more information contact: www. an invaluable tool during and after devonschoolofreiki.co.uk and www. my pregnancy. I’m passionate about reikirascals.com Or call Sam on: teaching families and mums-to-be 07870 167701 or email: sam@ about Reiki and how they can use it at devonschoolofreiki.co.uk

www.reconnectonline.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co.uk

www.thepracticerooms.co.uk 15 - 16 Castle Street, Exeter EX4 3PT

C FA

I L I TAT E D

AR NI NG ·

Samantha’s five reasons to love Reiki

FOR TALKING THERAPIES AND HOLISTIC HEALTH

LE

OU can’t really go anywhere these days without hearing the words ‘meditation’ and (more frequently now) ‘mindfulness’. But do you really have a good grasp of what these words mean in practice and how they can illuminate and transform your life?

If the answer is ‘not very’ you might be interested in two forthcoming evenings with Ringu Tulku Rinpoche, who trained in all schools of Tibetan Buddhism.

Ringu Tulku Rinpoche will be visiting Totnes in June to explore what meditation is and how it Ringu Tulku Rinpoche speaking in Berlin. relates to our busy lives.

Tessa King, of the Bodhicharya Buddhist centres across Europe, USA, Buddhist Group in Totnes, said: “Ringu Canada, Australia and Asia. He also Tulku Rinpoche is very familiar with participates in interfaith and ‘Science the problems that many of us face in and Buddhism’ dialogues and is the trying to bring the spirit of meditation author of several books on Meditation into our busy, stressful and complex and Buddhism as well as children’s modern lives. These talks will be a books. This is his third visit to Totnes. real opportunity to explore practical and accessible ideas about taking On Wednesday June 15 there will be meditation directly and authentically a public talk entitled What Meditation into all of our experience.”

Really Is, and on Thursday June 16 a Buddhist teaching on Relaxing in Ringu Tulku Rinpoche was born in Natural Awareness. Both talks are eastern Tibet in 1952. Speaking open to all and take place at Studio fluent English, Rinpoche is renowned 1, The Space, Dartington Hall, Totnes for his ability to present his profound from 7.30pm. knowledge of the Dharma in a pragmatic and accessible way for Visit www.bodhicharyasouthwest.org.

Westerners. uk. To book visit www.dartington.org/ Since 1990, he has been travelling whats-on/ or call the Dartington box and teaching Buddhism and office on 01803 847070 (open daily meditation in universities, institutes and 12.30-7pm).

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WELLBEING

Gaia House - hosting a silent retreat for those living with illness or loss.

Rachel works on the energy body

T

see we are far more HE physical than just the marvel techniques of physical tissue, of massage with which we are can provide very familiar, and notice effective relief from that there is another tension and stress. reality.

But Rachel Carey, who has spent years “We start to notice we working with touchare made of energy, based therapies, the extraordinary recognises that this is shimmering of tiny not the whole solution wave forms and and that sometimes a pulses which live more subtle approach within our cells and is needed. beyond our outer skin. This ‘energy She said: “I have body’ is where the noticed that when energy healer works.” touching and Rachel Carey connecting deeply Rachel practises with another during Bi-aura, which therapeutic work, it is possible is a form of energy healing that not just to feel the tensions and engages with the body on the level stresses locked into the tissues, but of the chakras and energy field, or also to hear the resonances from aura. By working on the energy the past that have become woven body alone, old habits of thought and imprinted into the cells and and behaviour can begin to be structures as the body makes its altered. Clients have noticed a way through life.” relief from depression, improved mood balance, an improvement According to Rachel this is an in relationships and the ability to awareness of the difference socialise, and an increased ability to between someone’s energy body engage with life and find pleasure and their physical body. in everyday activities.

She added: “Using massage and For more information about Bi-aura other touch therapies for effective Energy Healing and Tui na Chinese healing requires a sensitivity to the medical massage, visit www. many diverse layers which make rachelcarey.co.uk or call Rachel on a person. As we look deeply into 01392 758439. the form of a person we begin to

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Being present with loss or illness

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HE sound of silence can be just what we need when we are experiencing times of challenge. For the sixth year running, Gaia House is hosting its annual silent meditation retreat for people living with illness or bereavement The idea is that silent meditation offers an opportunity to develop greater mindfulness and explore being fully present with the challenges we’re experiencing Leading this year’s retreat will be Jenny Wilks and Zohar Lavie, who offer a wealth of experience in supporting people to find greater peace through Dharma teachings and tailored meditation techniques. ‘Dharma’ is the term used in the Buddhist tradition to refer to the teachings of the Buddha.

Zohar said: “Facing illness and loss in our lives can be a time to slow down and look deeply into our experience. The practice of Insight Meditation will be used as a basis for exploring our relationship to our experience of bereavement and/ or illness. By developing greater mindfulness it’s possible for us to find new ways of relating to our daily lives. In addition to guided meditation, the retreat will also include reflective exercises and contemplative art/writing.”

Thelma, who attended the retreat in 2015 said: “The retreat changed

my life. That sounds like an extreme claim, but I came away knowing what I needed to do to help me cope with issues that had overwhelmed me and it resulted in me successfully making twice-daily meditation part of my routine. I was transformed by those few days and hope to repeat the retreat next year.”

Another attendee, Alison, said: “I came on the verge of depression with repetitive thoughts of not knowing what to do, and of despair – and I left with a plan! I felt in control of my life again and was much happier.”

Gaia House is a silent meditation retreat centre and charity offering meditation instruction and teachings drawn from a variety of Buddhist traditions. It is located in beautiful countryside a few miles outside Newton Abbot.

Co-director Siggi Streat said: “We’ve received so much great feedback from those who’ve attended our Living with Illness and Loss Retreat over the years, highlighting what a rare and precious resource it is. It’s wonderful that two of our recent attendees have given us permission to use their feedback to help raise awareness of the opportunity.

The Living with Illness and Loss Retreat runs from June 8-13. Find out more at www.gaiahouse.co.uk or call 01626 333613. Funds are available to support people financially.

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The Birth of Miracles UK Tour

Qualify as a counsellor Successful completion qualifies you to practice

Eligible for student finance applications Help cover fees and living costs

Find out more - book onto our next open event: 6pm - 7pm, Wednesday 4th May 11am - 3pm, Saturday 11th June 6pm - 7pm, Wednesday 29th June

For more information on all our university courses: 01392 219200 / enquiries@ironmill.co.uk

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14~28 Sept 2016 ~ Traditional Hawaiian Lomi Massage Training; Ho’oponopono Sacred Circle; Hawaiian Shamanic Bodywork for Families; Healing Sessions with Kealohi from Kauai

KAHUNA SCIENCE OFFERS YOU INFINITE POSIBILITIES Location: South Devon / Info & Registration: Karen: 07703784129 / Fran: 07939936193 www.shamanicbodywork.com

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The Nautilus Rooms

Courses & Workshops APRIL 7

Energy Work with Lori King - Munay Ki: Ancient Rites for a Modern World (Thursday evenings from April 7 - May 5)

APRIL 9

Waking Women’s Workshop with Katheryn Hope awakening our inner-potential and moving beyond selflimiting beliefs.

APRIL 16

Mindfulness for Therapists with Sarah Ward – this course is also an introduction to a level-4 course later in the Summer

APRIL 16

Seated Massage Workshop with Anna Karthauser - simple and effective back, shoulder, neck and head massage treatment using Indian and Swedish techniques

APRIL 23 & 24 Introduction to Sandplay Therapy facilitated by Ruth Baker - Association of Integrative Sandplay and Therapeutic Arts (more dates through year).

STARTING IN APRIL

The Work of Byron Katie with Sylvia Karathanos - a supportive and small group to learn and practice the work of Byron Katie (Fortnightly on Sunday evenings 7-9.30pm)

MAY 14

Treat Each Other with Anna Karthauser - worthwhile massage techniques for beginners

MAY 21

Mindfulness and Trauma with Sarah Clevely - using mindfulness skills as an important resource in the process of recovery.

Fabulously located in the centre of Totnes, yet tucked away in a quiet alley, with easy access to short and long term parking.

A wonderfully healing space for people: clients, groups, therapists, facilitators, teachers, leaders, peers.

MAY 27

Party in The Town - From the Jamming Station: Singing Heart, Amber Higginson, Dylan Freise-Greene, Fin Bognuda and Dawn Fallon, 7-9pm, followed by Jambones (9pm until late). Contact Ruth Baker.

STARTING IN MAY

Certificate in Integrative Sandplay Therapy (weekend 1 of 4) with John Daly - accredited by the Association of Integrative Sandplay and Therapeutic Arts.

JUNE 11 r R u th Ba ke

36 334454

Call now 077

gmail.com

ruthbaker1@

therapy.co.uk ruthbakerpsycho

Foundation Course in Principles o f Psychosynt the hesis Led by Mar ie Beresford & Sam Wer nham

nt ch & Consulta & Mentor • Coa • Supervisor • Counsellor hotherapist

Psyc

One Saturd ay a month , April-Decem ber 2016 Call Marie on 01803 86 7328 or Sam on living spirit3@gm ail.com

NAUTILUS ROOMS FIRST BIRTHDAY AND OPEN DAY - meet therapists, book a taster massage, find out about Psychosynthesis, Labyrinth work or come for a taster of sandplay therapy. More info closer to the time on our website and Facebook.

SEPTEMBER

Certificate in Therapeutic Art facilitated by John Daly accredited by the Association of Integrative Sandplay and Therapeutic Arts (four three-day weekends).

PLEASE ENQUIRE FOR DATE

Couples Massage Tuition with Anna Karthauser - learn how to give a therapeutic, relaxing and effective massage treatment to your friend or loved one

REGULAR GROUPS & EVENTS Counselling & Psychotherapy

ALTERNATE WEDNESDAY EVENINGS

| Exeter

DATE TO BE CONFIRMED

| Totnes

Waking Women with Katheryn Hope - a group to support women in awakening their potential (7-8.30pm) Monthly Women’s Journey Circle with Lori King

FIND OUT MORE

Lisa Garvey-William s 07879 405 925 lisa@lisagarveywilliam s.com

lisagarveywilliams.co m

Essence of Touchr with

of the matte “Get to the heart .” ge and bodywork ssa ma ch tou ht lig gnment, Ali l ina Sp , ng ali eing, Scar He available. o als Emotional Wellb ge ssa Ma & Post-Partum Reiki, Pregnancy 008 e on 07833 545 Call Julia Rowntre .uk .co uch fto www.essenceo

Emma Cunis

Macrobiotic Health & Life Counsellor, Coach, Chef and Teacher In your Element Transform your health and life using natural foods as medicine; bodywork;and emotional release. +44 (0)7817 329584 emmacunis@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/emm a.cunis

For Katheryn Hope courses, call 01647 441235 For Lori King courses, email beatthatdrum.info@gmail.com, call 07896 569678, visit www.beatthatdrum.com For Sylvia Karathanos courses, call 01803 868379, skarathanos@phonecoop.coop Find out more at www.thework.com.

For Ruth Baker courses, email ruthbaker1@gmail.com For John Daly courses, email ruthbaker1@gmail.com For Sarah Clevely courses, email sclevely@gmail.com, or call 07779470746/ 01392 432952, visit www.sarahclevely.co.uk

For Sarah Ward courses, call 07860 102047 or email sarahj.ward@btinternet.com For Anna Karthauser courses, call 07912612462, email anna@karthauser.org or visit www.annakarthausermassage.co.uk

The Nautilus Rooms • 35a Fore Street • Totnes • TQ9 5HN www.nautilusrooms.uk info@nautilusrooms.uk Call Ruth on 07736 334454 or Peter on 07826 414404

WELLBEING EFFECTIVE DEEP AROMATIC MASSAGE WITH SARAH COLLIER

Helping you find the right job for you - and the world

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OU could describe Gill Coombs as a career coach with a difference. Rather than simply matching people up with a job that they might be good at, Gill helps them find work that is good for them and good for the world.

She explained: “In my work as a coach and facilitator I’ve met people who are miserable or feel trapped in their jobs; people who are frustrated Try it for yourself, give me a call. because they have more to offer than My practice is in central Exeter. their work allows; or people who are SARAH COLLIER MASSAGE THERAPY distressed by the state of the world they live in.

Call: 07946 836073 www.sarahcolliermassagetherapy.com “Meanwhile, we have environmental and societal crises desperately crying out for people with ideas, skills, energy Sarah C ReC ad Feb 2016.indd 1 29/2/16 14:01:17 and passion. My role is to match those passionate but disenchanted people with the jobs that need doing; bringing fulfilment to individuals and change to the world.”

Release through gentleness Gill firmly believes that everyone has a unique talent, but in today’s working Nick Rampton world people often lose sight of their own gift, or simply don’t know what to Follaton, Totnes do with it.

“I went to see Sarah and she was welcoming, professional and knowledgable.

Sarah is able to target specific aches and pains or more general body issues such as tiredness.

She gave me the most wonderfully relaxing aromatherapy massage.”

Craniosacral Therapy 01803 847638/07792 594634 www.craniosacraltotnes.co.uk

Upledger Institute Training

Barnfield Hill Therapy Rooms New therapy rooms for rent Light and airy rooms with own waiting room. Flexible hours and low rates for counsellors and therapists Central Exeter location Contact: Julie McNichol 01392 256711 4 Barnfield Hill, Exeter, EX1 1SR

Domestic Abuse Awareness Training & Pattern Changing Course 15-session course Phone text 07562 380 703 sueley222@gmail.com endabuseuk.org.uk 30

“I’ve helped clients of all ages and backgrounds to start their own ethical enterprises, find jobs they love, transform their existing roles or create a meaningful retirement. Some people need just one session to get the shift they want; others opt for longer term work.”

Gill works from home near Totnes or via Skype for people who are further afield. She believes that if we could all do work we love and we’re good at - work that’s positive rather than destructive, that is collaborative rather than competitive - we could achieve vibrant local economies, strong communities and a healthy, flourishing planet.

She said: “That’s my vision; that’s why I do what I do.”

Gill has also written a book about finding the right career called Hearing our Calling. For more information visit her website at: www.gillcoombs.co.uk.

Find everything you need within you

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HE title of Sundao practitioner Anna Purdy’s new workshop also sums up her attitude to life: All you need is already within you.

Anna set off on a path of self-discovery many years ago when, after studying psychology and sociology at university, she lived for many years in India, Thailand, Poland and France.

“Each of these places gave me some important Anna Purdy - offering practical tools. teaching,” she says. She has since become a Reiki within, using ancient mind/body practitioner, NeuroLinguistic trainer disciplines (Sundao – the way of nature and a certified yoga teacher. for human perfection, Shinsundo) “I believe that everything that helps as part of a gentle, yet very effective, us bring more balance, love, peace method called The Path.” and understanding into everyday life Anna says that our suppressed is beneficial,” says Anna, “so I was thoughts, beliefs and emotions particularly grateful for the chance create energetic blocks and to become a teacher of Sundao, undermine the flow of our life force, a simple, powerful and unique sabotaging our inner-health and interpretation of Daoist mountain happiness. practice from the South Korean She teaches special breathing Master. exercises, movements and “Putting all these experiences meditations to release these together I have designed a day suppressed thoughts and emotions workshop which sums up my life from a body’s cellular memory, attitude: All you need is already creating a permanent energetic shift within you. in our consciousness.

“If you are able to live your life from “These are very practical tools to this place of abundance within, from dismantle limiting energy in your this inner-wellspring, everything is life and bring more balance,” says easier, smoother and better.”

Anna.

And it is not difficult to get there, Anna’s next workshop is at the Kenn she adds: “You just need to know Centre on Exeter Road in Kennford The Path. Each of us is born master (EX6 7UE). It runs from 10amand creator of our own life – but 4.30pm on May 21 with a special sometimes we need to remind introductory price of £85. ourselves about it.

To find out more and book, call “My workshop offers precise guidance Anna on 07818 301492, or email on how to find your own treasure britt33@interia.pl.

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Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk Changes mark first anniversary

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S The Nautilus Rooms in Totnes approaches its first birthday (see right for details of their anniversary open day), it’s a time of consolidation and continued growth at the centre.

“We have been busy with our dayto-day business of body therapy, counsellors, psychotherapists and psychologists providing treatments,” said Nautilus co-founder Ruth Baker.

“Practitioners are getting busy as word gets around about the quality and types of treatments we provide in such a beautiful setting. We are so pleased to have attracted such high quality therapists – and many of them provide workshops as well as individual therapy sessions. “ Recent courses include the Diploma in Integrative Therapeutic Art, which produced some amazing mandalas at its last weekend, and the Certificate in Alchemical Studies, which on their last weekend studied the work of Hieronymous Bosch from an alchemical viewpoint.

Ruth facilitated an Introduction to Sandplay Therapy weekend, which was much enjoyed, and many of the participants said how important it is to have a good selection of miniatures available to do the work. Katheryn Hope has received fantastic feedback from people attending her Waking Women Workshop and her ongoing group - she has another workshop planned for April 9 and another group starting after Easter.

Anna Karthauser also received positive feedback after her recent seated massage workshop, with comments about the great rooms,

New seating in the group room.

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with lovely energy and beautiful artwork on the walls, as well as for the knowledgeable teacher. Her next workshop is on Saturday April 16.

Nautilus co-founder Peter Baker said: “We are pleased to welcome Sylvia Karathanos who is running a fortnightly Byron Katie group. It’s very exciting to see the rooms being used and having such great feedback about the practitioners and workshops.”

The centre’s spaces are evolving too, including some changes to the group room.

“The sofas were lovely,” says Ruth Baker, “but we found them a little impractical.

“We have replaced them with individual chairs and a new rug on the floor which can be lifted for body work or art therapies. Check out our photos on line.

“We aim to bring a personal touch to the centre as a whole. At the moment the centre is filled with Spring flowers from our garden and we hope to grow enough flowers through the Summer to bring into the rooms. Creating a lovely environment is really important to us in terms of valuing the people who come for treatments and for the therapists who work here.”

Peter and Ruth are delighted the centre has been selected as a venue by Party in the Town on May 27.

“We will be hosting a number of young players from Jamming Station including Singing Heart, Amber Higginson, Dylan Freise-Greene, Fin Bognuda and Dawn Fallon,” says Ruth. And from 9pm Jambones will be playing a world music fusion, rich and delicate, played with mandolin, folk and classical guitars, flute, violin and vocal harmonies. It’s a collective of composer/ songwriters sharing their creativity.”

Visit www.nautilusrooms. uk and the Nautilus Rooms Facebook page - and don’t forget to pick up a leaflet at the end of the alley way by Lloyds Bank and opposite The Mansion.

Check out Nautilus at their open day IF you’re curious about what happens down the alley by Lloyds Bank in Totnes, you can check out The Nautilus Rooms when the centre celebrates its first birthday with an Open Day on June 11.

Visitors will be able to meet many of the practitioners who work there – and have the chance to take part in one of the workshops or book yourself in for a mini-treatment.

As we go to press, the full programme is still being finalised, but it will include: Anna Karthauser, a holistic Swedish massage therapist, seated massage tasters; Julia Rowntree, massage therapist, offering Indian head and mini massages, flower card readings with emotional stress release (she also works with scar healing and pregnancy massage so you can talk to her about that too); Catherine Savita Hale, sexual Shamanic healer and sexual empowerment coach, offering energy healing taster sessions; Sylvia Karathanos, counsellor and facilitator of the Works of Byron Katie talking about the groups she runs.; Emma Cunis, counsellor, teacher, speaker and practitioner, who

teaches at the International Macrobiotic School (IMS), giving free 15-minute tasters of macrobiotic life and health consultations Lisa Garvey-Williams, a Psychosynthesis psychotherapist, running workshops as an introduction to psycho-spiritual psychotherapies. Lisa will also run sessions on creative labyrinth work.

The Nautilus Centre is also home to probably the largest sandtray miniature collection in the south west and there will be an opportunity to enjoy a taster session with Ruth Baker and see how it feels to play in the sand. We will create an evolving group sandtray during the day – come and contribute to this experiment.

Peter Baker, co-founder of the centre, will be available to talk to you about the work at the centre and show you around. If you have been meaning to check out The Nautilus Rooms but just haven’t got round to it, this is your chance!

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

31

Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk Natalie teaches two forms of yoga

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Sue Balgburn with the Adevntures with Horses team - (from left to right) Tristan, Harry, Arthur and William.

From A to B with help of horses

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OR thousands of years, horses have got us from A to B. They’ve been transport, carried our goods, ploughed our fields and helped us fight wars.

Much has changed over the last century and horses are now getting us from A to B in very different ways with the birth of equine facilitated learning and therapy.

You may have seen mentions in the media of some of the positive effects horses are now having on peoples’ lives. Studies and evidence-based research is showing how this work is helping adults and young people cope with uncertainty, stress, trauma, autism spectrum disorders and much more - often when mainstream interventions have failed.

Equine-facilitated experiential learning can also provide unique ways for organisational, professional and personal development and growth. And Adventures with Horses, based on South Dartmoor near the village of Holne, are offering just that.

Sue Blagburn, who runs Adventures with Horses, says: “Whether a CEO (chief executive officer) or a SEN (a child with special educational needs), the horses become the teachers and coaches – by just being horses! Horses do not judge, so to them the challenges a leader of an organisation may face are no different than the challenges children and young people face.”

Sue added: “At the heart of what we do at Adventures with Horses is a safe, non-judgemental environment where facilitating and coaching our extraordinary team of horses can provide insights and awareness of self and others.

“We do this in a beautiful natural environment. It is not a riding school and, although we are licenced to give riding therapy to children with special educational needs, on all other programmes and workshops participants stay firmly on their feet! No experience of horses is necessary and even people frightened of horses can benefit.”

Adventures with Horses is a Social Enterprise and in 2016-2017 they need funding and grants so they can offer more opportunities for children and young people struggling in mainstream education.

Sue says: “To do this we need to raise around £35,000 and we hope around a third of this money will come by increasing our income from more people booking on our organisational, professional and personal development workshops.

Every organisation or individual paying the full amount will be helping to finance our programmes for young people”.

For further details of the work Adventures with Horses is doing, visit www.adventureswithhorses. co.uk, or contact Sue Blagburn on 07831 865259.

Real food, Real life,

Real health Classes Targeted advice Books Eating plans Free resources Online courses Healthy recipe blog 1-2-1, online, phone/Skype ME, gut disorders, mental health nutrition, cancer recovery & weight management.

email: enquiries@trinityholistics.co.uk more info: www.trinityholistics.co.uk 32

Jane Hutton The Functional Foodie

T: 07841 344934

from stiff, aching SKED to summarise muscles or joints; the benefits back pain, or reduced of yoga, practitioner mobility; and people Natalie Austin said: who have difficulty sleeping and relaxing.

“Where do I start?

Yoga lowers stress, “It combines eases muscular pain traditional yoga and and stiffness, calms Chinese Meridian the mind, boosts Theory, working on concentration and acupuncture points of confidence, increases the body. Even after your overall health practising for a short and ability to fight time, you will sleep infections - and better, move better, Natalie Austin above all it feels have an increased gooooood!” awareness of your body and health and be able to use Natalie teaches a mix of Yin Yoga, techniques to help you relax and dewhich is a gentle, meditative style of stress in your everyday life.” yoga with all postures done on the Vinyasa yoga classes are on Thursdays mat, and Vinyasa Yoga, which is an at 6.30pm at Chapel House Studios. active, dynamic style of yoga that Natalie added: helps builds strength, stamina and increase overall fitness. Both classes “This style of yoga will improve your are suitable for all abilities. postural alignment, strengthen your spine and improve muscle tone. It She started out as a massage can also help with weight loss and therapist but found she was radically improve your over health increasingly teaching her clients yoga and wellbeing.” poses as a way of helping them to improve their strength and overcome In addition, Natalie is holding a problems. Her workshops are workshop at Chapel House Studios designed to teach people how to use on June 19, 1-4pm, focusing on yoga practically in their everyday life Lower Back Pain Relief. Spaces are as a way of promoting healing. limited so please book. There will be other workshops later in the year Yin Yoga classes take place on called Back, Neck and Shoulder Mondays at 6.30pm at Chapel House Release and Happy Hips.

Studios in Totnes. Natalie explained: “This class suits people who prefer a Call Natalie on 07516 720246 or gentle style of yoga; people who suffer email info@beyogahappy.co.uk.

School offers Consensual Life programme

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HE Sea School of Embodiment has a programme of Consensual Life workshops designed to “broaden our horizons, liberate us from old patterns, deepen our integrity, develop our skills and support our relaxation into our naturalness.”

Like a Pro is a four-day intensive CPD workshop aimed at practitioners working in the NHS and privately.

“This course, with internationally acclaimed teacher Dr. Betty Martin, delves into the dynamics between practitioner and client and supports our appreciation The Sea School of Embodiment’s Katie Sarra and Kian de la Cour. of what it takes to be in service,” says Sea School’s understanding of their sexuality”, Kian de la Cour. in a beautiful seaside retreat with Growing in Embodiment: A landscaped gardens and an indoor Transformative Retreat is described heated pool. as “a life-changing opportunity to Finally, Sea School’s Cuddle Parties be sensitively and compassionately offer a safe space to explore the supported to integrate your own human need for non-sexual touch eroticism more fully into your daily within “a context of boundaries, life.” communication and affection”.

Three of the world’s leading somatic A recent attendee said: “Thank sex educators, Deej Juventin, Uma you! So well led, well held, and Furman and Dr. Betty Martin, will such warm and wonderful fellow travel from Seattle and Australia travellers.” and will be joined by a team of nine Certified Sexological Bodyworkers For find out more and book, visit to help participants “gain a deeper www.seaschoolofembodiment.com.

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WELLBEING

Sarah Collier - massage that satisfies and inspires.

Sarah’s massage inspires her clients

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LL practitioners like to get positive feedback but massage therapist Sarah Collier believes her treatments can be truly inspirational.

She says: “My aim is to provide treatments that address the client’s priorities - that satisfy and inspire. I say inspire because I want people to feel a renewed desire to look after themselves as well as feel looked after.”

Sarah is driven by the challenge of how best to meet her clients’ requirements and she draws on advanced clinical massage and aromatherapy training as well as over 12 years of practice.

“My clients really benefit from the double whammy of being massaged

by a trained aromatherapist,” says Sarah. “I blend essential oils to add a potent and aromatic dimension to my treatments. For me this is all about treating people with profound listening touch - I take my cues from what I feel, see and sense. My approach is about integrating techniques that are therapeutically effective and feel good.

The experience is fluid and clients relax into a treatment that feels great and gets results.

“It might take a series of treatments to unravel postural tensions or treat an aching hip, but skilled touch and good use of a range of bodywork approaches and techniques can be surprisingly effective.”

Call Sarah on 07946 836073, or visit www.sarahcolliermassagetherapy.com.

Collective creates freedom to move NO dance steps to learn, no experience needed, no need to book… that’s the freedom that is the Totnes Dance Collective, which meets on a Monday evening at the Civic Hall in Totnes.

5 Rhythms, Movement Medicine, Soul Motion and Music-led are all dances at the collective’s weekly dance session where people come together to express themselves through movement.

Participants are asked not to talk in the dance space but instead to

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give their attention to expressing whatever they are feeling using their body.

The dance collective was formed after Jo Hardy, who hosted the popular 5 Rhythms class in Totnes for 10 years, left to work abroad.

On April 18, the founder of Soul Motion, Vinn Arjuna Martî, will be guest teacher during a rare visit to the UK. All sessions begin at 7.30pm. For more information visit http:// creativedevon.ning.com/events.

Rachel Carey Energy Healing and Massage

Call 01392 758439 text 07804 575787

• Bi-Aura Bio-Energy Healing • Tui Na Chinese Medical Massage • Therapeutic oil Massage • Reflexology

Exeter Natural Health Centre, Queen Street, Exeter EX4 3RP

www.rachelcarey.co.uk

InnerSense Animal Communication and Healing

“Moved by Horses” workshops on mornings of April 24 and May 7 and 27

07886 036102 anto@innersense.me.uk

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk

WELLBEING

Fire in the Head with Roselle Angwin

25 years of inspiring holistic writing courses • Residential retreats; stunning locations (Hebrides; France; Devon; Cornwall) • One-day workshops • Online courses • Mentoring Creative & reflective writing: www.fire-in-the-head.co.uk Ecopsychology & ecowriting: www.thewildways.co.uk roselle@fire-in-the-head.co.uk

Craniosacral Therapy Able to cope, a sense of wellbeing, energised, relaxed, feeling more fully alive, whole again, healthy……

Craniosacral therapy is a very gentle, yet powerful hands-on therapy. It works with the whole person at any stage of life and can be very effective in a wide range of areas, including: • Back/neck problems • Depression • Muscle strains and injuries – old and new • Anxiety • Headaches and migraines • Chronic fatigue • Pregnancy and childbirth support

• Stress-related conditions • Digestive problems • A general sense of “not feeling quite right” • Sleep disorders • Colic • Panic attacks

This list is not exhaustive and I am always happy to talk with you about your individual needs and how I can help.

Treatments are in Totnes and cost £35 an hour, conc available.

LEA ZACCARI R.C.S.T 0747 332 4730 cst.with.lea@gmail.com www.craniosacral-therapy-lea.yolasite.com

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Therapy you can use with your child

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S a parent, when your child is ill it can be a difficult and frightening time causing you to feel helpless and, at times, despairing.

The Children’s Reflexology Programme is a new course that has been created by the Exeter Natural Health Centre’s maternity reflexologist Susan Quayle. It aims to teach parents basic reflexology that they can give to their child anywhere and at any time.

The programme runs for A four-day old baby has its first experience of an hour a week over six The Children’s Reflexology Programme. weeks and a different childhood ailment is instructor training course for those covered in each session. who would like to run their own The course is based on Susan’s business supporting families with successful book, The Mouse’s reflexology. It is suitable for anyone House, and teaches parents to use - even those who don’t have a story, rhyme, singing and animal qualification in reflexology. characters to engage children.

Susan explained: “In my work Susan said: “Parents take home as a maternity reflexologist, I see a beautiful and comprehensive how difficult it can be for some booklet for the condition covered mums returning to work to leave that week. By the end of the course their baby in childcare. The idea they have a useful toolkit that they of offering instructor training is to can refer to whenever they need to. give women another choice that fits The course culminates in families around childcare commitment and receiving a certificate of attendance provides them with a proven way of and their own hardback copy of The supporting families.”

Mouse’s House.”

For more information visit www.

Susan also offers a three-day kidsreflex.co.uk.

Connection makes the difference

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XPLAINING how Shiatsu works might involve a discussion about meridians and pressure points, but that could all get a bit complicated. Shiatsu practitioner Kirsty Hurd-Thomas prefers to opt for a more simplistic explanation.

She attributes the extraordinary power of Shiatsu to the connection that occurs between therapist and client and the difference this makes to the client’s holistic experience of health and wellbeing.

Kirsty said: “Shiatsu is an incredibly versatile treatment. You might be wondering, could it help your stutter or back problem, or shoulder pain, or hip problem, or the fact you’re always getting colds, or your pregnancy, or your painful PMT, or your overeating, your dissatisfaction, or depression, or anxiety about life?

The simple answer is yes. Shiatsu will transform you and your conditions as a result of the connection that is created between you and the therapist.”

Kirsty describes Shiatsu as being a physical and emotional

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journey which, like counselling, takes time.

She added: “Sometimes it’s hard to look at bodywork in this way because we are used to the Western medical model which wants to fix the symptom, but not address what is underlying it. If we do this, the symptom can return or re-emerge in another place.

“If I am doing my job well then the symptom will get ‘fixed’ but, actually, my aim is a more holistic connection. One of my teachers tells a story about a client who came to her with a shoulder problem.

“The shoulder pain took longer than expected to shift, but in the meantime the client came every week and did some much-needed emotional work after which the shoulder pain shifted.

“If the problem had been ‘fixed’ straight away the client would have stopped coming and missed out on some valuable life-changing work!”

For more information, visit www. kirsty.hurd-thomas.shiatsusociety. org, call 01803 862808, or email kirsty.shiatsu@btinternet.com.

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Antoinett Bruin who teaches workshops on communicating and healing with horses

Learn the ways of the Shamen

Communicating with life

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VERYBODY can communicate with animals, according to Antoinett Bruin who teaches workshops on communicating and healing with horses as well as weekly horse, dog and cat acupressure sessions.

Antoinett has spent the last 20 years working and teaching people how to meet emotional difficulty and trauma using a mix of Classical Chinese medicine, healing, psychic mediumship and presence.

Outside of work she has maintained a close connection with horses throughout her life and is now using her experiences with horses to show people how to access this healing connection for themselves and their animals.

“All we need is a curiosity and a willingness to listen with our whole body and all our senses,” said Antoinett. “It is innate to our being to communicate with all life, our ancestors have done it for thousands of years. It is just something that has not been nurtured in us, which is why we find it difficult.”

She explained that the relationship between horses and humans can be beneficial for both. In some instances, an unresolved emotional trauma for the owner manifests as physical symptoms in the animal. In other cases, issues from a past life can recur for horse or owner and by bringing awareness to these, both can experience healing.

“When we hold a space in the present moment for an animal and connect heart to heart, the animal will automatically start to relax. They may then start to release stress by yawning, licking their lips or shivering and shaking.”

As well as healing workshops, Antoinett holds a Moved by Horses morning, which allows participants to just be with the horses so that reciprocal healing can take place.

For more information visit www.innersense.me.uk or call 07886 036102.

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SHAMANISM has been shrouded in mystery for generations.

Now Devon’s own shamanic practitioner and psychic reader Bell Bartlett, who trained with the Native American Shaman Beautiful Painted Arrow, is hosting a workshop to teach people some of the basics of chanting, journeying, sharing and craft play.

An Introduction to Shamanism through the Senses is a one-day workshop that focuses on connection to spirit from the heart, in common with all of Bell’s work. The workshop takes place at Destiny Space in Brixham on May 14 and costs £40. It provides an opportunity to find out what Shamanism is really about from someone who knows at first hand.

Call Bell on 07796 900509.

WELLBEING

Take a deep BREATH...

Learn how to use the power of your own breath to overcome stress and re-energise your body.

Improveyour health and help clear emotional blockages. Workshops and 1:1 sessions available.

Intro workshops in Teignmouth by arrangement.

2-day retreats in April and July - see website.

Transformational Breathing Les Elms • les@breathsouthwest.com www.breathsouthwest.com

07828 566553

Angie

Jacobs

South West distributor of Sizzling Minerals, the world’s first effervescent plant-derived minerals

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“You can trace every sickness, every disease and every ailment to a mineral deficiency” Dr Linus Pauling, two times Nobel Prize winner

The Mindful Therapist Introductory Skills Workshop This one-day workshop for Coaches and Counsellors introduces the principles of Mindfulness and explores how you can bring them to your practice

Bell Bartlett

It can be used as a foundation for the Level 4 qualification for coaches and counsellors “Working Therapeutically with Mindfulness and Compassion”

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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Metamorphic Technique involves the practitioner lightly touching the feet, hands and head.

WELLBEING

Living with illness and loss retreat A meditation retreat for those currently living with illness or bereavement

Cost £245

8 - 13 June 2016

www.gaiahouse.co.uk INSIGHT MEDITATION IN THE BUDDHIST TRADITION

Gaia House, nr Newton Abbot, Devon, TQ12 6EW

Counsellor and Psychotherapist With optional use of Sand Tray and Drawing/Painting as Therapeutic Tools w w w. j u l i e t t e m e d d e r. c o . u k 01803 529 892 | 07923 894 499 | info@juliettemedder.co.uk

Health & wellbeing

Seek peace of mind?

Contact Peter Crowe Counselling & psychotherapy 01392 966845 www.petercrowe.co.uk 36

Experience the therapy’s ritual

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N experience of “being out of time” is how practitioner Hélène Demetriades describes a Metamorphic Technique session.

She explains that the ritual and practice of a session gives people time out to experience “life breathing more deeply into their form.”

A Metamorphic Technique session involves the practitioner lightly touching the feet, hands and head.

In the Metamorphic context, these parts of the body are called ‘spinal reflexes’ and they reflect the prenatal period of our lives, when all influences start to be anchored physically.

Hélène said: “Recently I learnt that the word ‘ritual’ comes from rtu, Sanskrit for menses. The earliest rituals were connected to women’s monthly bleeding, as the blood from the womb that fed the unborn child was honoured for its life power or mana.

“In the same way that a woman’s monthly bleed represents both an opportunity for new beginnings and a shedding of old forms, so

a Metamorphic Technique session provides an opportunity to connect to life, creation, birth, death and the transformation of patterns that no longer serve us.

“The ancient rituals surrounding menses not only reminded people of its power, but also honoured sacred time-out space for women.

The ritual and practice of the Metamorphic Technique also gives us that precious time-out, allowing our life force to move unimpeded into a newer and more inclusive expression of who or what we are.”

Hélène offers one-to-one Metamorphic Technique sessions as well as workshops for people who would like to learn more about the technique. The next workshop is May 20-21 in Dartington. For more information visit: www. helenedemetriades.co.uk.

Clinic offers free health check-ups

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PRING’S here and it’s time to get active – but first we need to address those lingering Winter colds and infections.

The BioEnergetic Health Clinic in Totnes is offering free full health checkups on Wednesday mornings in the shape of 20-minute EAV (Electroacupuncture) testing sessions.

Andy Thompson, who runs the clinic, uses EAV testing, which is completely painless and non-invasive, to accurately diagnose which pathogens (viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites) are causing ill-health.

The technique has proved effective with many chronic conditions such as digestive disorders (including IBS), asthma, parasites, eczema and other skin conditions, candida, herpes and cystitis. It can also be helpful in illnesses with no known cause such as chronic fatigue syndrome, migraines, fibromyalgia, cognitive difficulties and joint and muscle pain.

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Andy Thompson, left, uses EAV testing, above, at his clinic.

The treatment involves the exact homeopathic version of each pathogen identified plus support remedies and flower essences. This holistic approach provides the body with enough support to heal itself.

Andy also has a keen interest in diagnosing gluten and dairy allergies and combines dowsing and EAV to create tailored treatment programmes.

To book your free taster session, call Andy on 07503 111057. To find out more, visit www.bioenergetichealth. net.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

A portrait by Samjhana Moon, who is the driving force behind the new Women’s Wisdom Dial.

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HE curse, having the painters in, on the rag… there are around 5,000 euphemisms for menstruation, reflecting society’s embarrassment about the subject and the taboos that still persist in relation to periods.

However, things are gradually changing and one visionary Totnes woman is determined to speed the pace of change and empower a new generation of women in a way that she believes was missing for her own generation.

Samjhana Moon will be familiar to many as the art photographer who creates stunning portraits of women under the banner of Goddess Portraiture. She was also a guest speaker at the first TEDx Totnes and spoke passionately about female beauty and the empowerment of women, particularly in relation to menstruation.

Samjhana is now taking this to the next level with the launch of her new Women’s Wisdom Dial, which charts how each phase of a woman’s menstrual cycle affects her using a simple structure of four phases, or inner seasons. Understanding this empowers women to work with their natural rhythms and to achieve more by knowing the best time of the month

Dial says it’s time for change

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

to accomplish particular tasks.

Samjhana explained: “I have spent many years of working closely with nature’s rhythms and wanted to create something that would simplify the process for women. I wanted something tangible, something beautiful that I could look at in my home and that would keep me connected to my flow. The Women’s Wisdom Dial was born.”

Spring, for example, is the time just after a woman’s period when Oestrogen is on the rise. During this time, women tend to experience greater optimism, physical stamina and sharper mental focus. By contrast, Winter is aligned to the time of menstruation when Oestrogen and Progesteron are low. During this time women tend to be more sensitive, intuitive and reflective.

Find out more and order at www. innerseasons.com.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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Remember when we only had black and white TV? Digital technology has increased quality and reduced prices - and not just for leisure goods.

Energised Angie passes on her secret

H

Sound advice on low-cost hi-tech IN many areas, the advent of digital technology has meant a better product for less money. And that doesn’t only apply to the leisure industry, as JOHN MOREY explains.

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INDING back the clock to my father’s day, he paid £60 for our first TV. It was in black and white, had valves and a ‘tube’ – and only two channels.

(Oh, joy!)

So when I saw a TV advertised recently for £129, it made me think. Granted this is at the lower end, but it is still massively better in every respect than our first TV. (Apart from now having 100s of channels!)

Now consider this: my dad was probably earning little more than £15 a week, so our TV cost four weeks’ wages. In today’s terms that equates

38 38

to £2,000 – enough for over 15 of the above TV sets.

But what has this to do with hearing more for less?

The company I work for – bloom hearing – has just launched a new hearing aid called DAILY. A pair can cost between £745 and £1,495. Quite enough, some might say. But as one of our hearing specialists said, ‘A few years ago this level of technology could cost over £4,000.’

The same principle applies to lots of digital devices. Remember how much you paid for your first calculator? Over £10 was it? Or your first desk top PC. Over £1,000?

I suppose my point is that, with quality hearing solutions costing so much less, another reason for NOT treating a hearing loss has disappeared.

Visit www.bloomhearing.co.uk.

believe it! It was as if a AVING dark curtain had been experienced the lifted!” most astonishing transformation in her own Angie believes the reason body and mind, Totnesfor the transformation in based Angie Jacobs now her health and wellbeing shares her story in a bid to was that her body was help others to benefit from finally getting the minerals the effects of plant-derived it needed: “It all makes so minerals. much sense. We no longer get what we need from “I used to be very the food we eat; our soils energetic when I was have been significantly young,” said Angie, “but Angie Jacobs compromised by commercial over the last five years I farming. Minerals are the spark began to develop various health plugs of life and without them conditions. I lacked energy, felt vitamins are virtually useless.” anxious and depressed. I didn’t sleep well and was constantly tired. I had “Sizzling Minerals come from a 70 eczema, arthritis and my eyesight was million year-old mine - back from the deteriorating.” days when dinosaurs were roaming the earth. Basically, they are a form Angie was introduced to Sizzling of lush green prehistoric vegetation Minerals, which contain 75 plantbursting with health-giving nutrients!” derived minerals, by a friend whose story of healing inspired her.

For more information or free samples call Angie on 07970 922231 or visit “Almost as soon as I started taking www.simplyamazingminerals.com, them, my symptoms disappeared,” and see what others say at www. says Angie. “I felt positive and sizzlingtestimonials.com. bursting with energy, I could hardly

Life coaching - you investing in you

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they come for coaching IFE coaching is you to focus on themselves investing in you, and transform their life says Katheryn into one that is fulfilling, Elaine Hope, whose meaningful and coaching practice The reaching their next level.

Seed Coach promises They want to experience to nourish the seed of their own inner people’s dreams and connection, express their transform their thinking full creativity and to and their life. feel successful in a way Katheryn explained: that has significance “Perhaps you have Katheryn Elaine Hope for them. They want to already achieved quite do more of what they a lot in your life or love in life and to feel perhaps you have big they are growing their dreams. dreams and have yet to make them In essence, people want to feel a reality. You have evolved and empowered to be who they are grown and there are aspects of meant to be.” your life that you enjoy. Yet, there’s Katheryn helps her clients engage something niggling that doesn’t let with this process fully because go – some small seed within you the more they do the more they that wants to grow and you’re not ultimately get out of it. sure how.”

Visit www.theseedcoach.co.uk, or Katheryn continued that sometimes book a free Discovery session on people feel stuck, demotivated or 07971 416630 or email katheryn@ simply tired because all their energy theseedcoach.co.uk. has been going elsewhere. “Often

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Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk

WELLBEING

Change your story, change your life SURELY you can’t change your life in two and a half days? Simon Daly, a director of InterBe which runs The Genesis Programme, explains how this is not only possible but has been proven again and again by participants on the programme.

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EOPLE think that changing their lives is about changing the circumstances. But, have you ever noticed that you can feel differently about a set of circumstances even if nothing has actually changed?

Or, on the flipside, that you can alter your circumstances only to find that the same thoughts and feelings recur?

On Genesis we teach that changing your life has nothing to do with circumstances - it is about the thoughts, beliefs and perceptions that you have about life. We call this your narrative. When you change your narrative, your whole experience of life changes. And, miraculously, often the circumstances change too.

When people truly get this, they experience a sense of freedom and liberation. They stop trying to control the circumstances and focus instead on the meaning they are giving to these circumstances – their thoughts and beliefs. This is the first step to creating an amazing life.

A participant on the last Genesis programme realised “we can all change our thinking at any time in a fundamental way.”

The same participant said: “I made a massive shift at the weekend and let go of something that had kept me stuck and caused me pain and anguish for as long as I can remember.” Another felt “reconnected to a part of myself that I have been missing for a considerable time.”

CFS/ME Recovery Programme Individual Health Coaching Workshops - Stress & Fatigue Health & Well Being Group Online Health Store

Daniella Saunders Tel: 01872 278123 www.synergyholistichealth.co.uk

Participants from Interbe’s recent Genesis Programme.

People come on the programme for all kinds of reasons. Some feel stuck in their lives or are looking for something new. Others may want to resolve a difficulty or find a way to cope with challenge. Some people are looking to move from something good to something great in their lives.

Others want to discover a sense of freedom and liberation, or may be seeking a new career or relationship.

No matter what people bring, we guide them to enquire into their own sense of reality. By uncovering their narratives, beliefs and perspectives, people find themselves in a place of greater choice.

Possibilities open up to them that were not visible before. We call this process Narrative Transformation and the word “transformation” is used deliberately. When people understand how their narratives control their experience of life, they can begin to consciously shape their experience of reality and become the ‘authors’ of their own life. It is like handing someone a key to a very heavy padlock.

The Genesis programme costs £199 and the next programmes are April 15-17 and June 10-12 Visit www.interbe.co/archive/experienceliving-genesis, or call 01392 346224.

Do you have a sense of purpose?

Do you have work you enjoy?

Do you feel your gifts are appreciated?

Is your work aligned with your personal values?

Meaningful Work; Fulfilling Life Gain a deeper understanding of your unique gifts; find more clarity about the difference you want to make in the world; create steps towards doing work you love, or being more fulfilled/effective in the work you already do.

CBT EXETER COUNSELLING COURSES

Delivered by a team of practicing CBT therapists accredited with the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists (BABCP) UNDERSTANDING COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPIES (CBT) SHY NO MORE: INTEGRATIVE CBT FOR SOCIAL AND PERFORMANCE ANXIETY. WORKING WITH OLDER ADULTS: CBT FOR EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS IN LATER LIFE TEXTING, SEXTING AND SOCIAL MEDIA: CBT FOR OVERCOMING THE EFFECTS OF BULLYING & ABUSE IN SOCIAL MEDIA INTEGRATIVE COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY FIRST CERTIFICATE CBT PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATE SUPERVISION IN THE HELPING PROFESSIONS

ALL COURSES RUN AT THE PRACTICE ROOMS, EXETER See website for further details cbtexeter.com Contact : cbtexeter@gmail.com Phone : Anne on 07986322678

1:1 sessions at Staverton, Totnes or via Skype * Free exploratory session, with no commitment GILL COOMBS Coaching Dip (Distinction), author of Hearing our Calling www.gillcoombs.co.uk · gillcoombs@gillcoombs.co.uk · 01803 762840 · 07729 331676

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WELLBEING

Juliette Medder - how art therapy and sandplay work can help.

Exploring with expression

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O two counselling sessions are the same and what form they take is very much led by the individual client.

Sometimes a person may just need a sounding board to bounce ideas off; sometimes they are looking for more direction or even to be gently challenged; at other times they may be confused by their own feelings or behaviour and feel unable to understand, much less express it.

At times like that, counsellor/ psychotherapist Juliette Medder may make use of art therapy or sandtray work. “ It requires no artistic ability,” explains Juliette, “but it can help people to manifest and make visible on paper or in the sand what they could not express or address in traditional talking therapy alone.”

An example of sandtray work.

She explains that using stick people or simple daubs of colour to represent thoughts and feelings can often access deep trauma and painful emotions surprisingly quickly. Likewise, sandtray therapy also allows people to build up a picture, but this time in sand using miniatures of everyday objects that create a visual, threedimensional world corresponding to one’s internal world.

“When explored, understood and fully experienced, deeper feelings can be released and growth can occur,” said Juliette.

She believes that however old we are, whatever has happened to us or whatever we have done, we all retain the possibility to realise our true potential and experience true emotional freedom and joy.

Juliette offers counselling sessions (using art therapy or sandtray work if appropriate) in Totnes, Torbay and Newton Abbot. First sessions are free, giving clients a sense of working with her - especially useful if it is their first counselling experience.

Sessions cost £40, with some concessions.

Call 07923 894499 or 01803 529892 or visit www.juliettemedder. co.uk.

Rigorous and gentle forms of yoga on offer at Yogafest in Totnes on May 14.

Yoga festie offers a range of styles THE Yogafest in Totnes is back – put May 14 in your diary!

There will as usual be a mix of vigorous and gentle styles on offer to suit everyone’s taste and there will also this year be a talk on nutrition.

Yoga Kitchen will provide delicious healthy foods throughout the day and the festival will end with a kirtan, “enriching chants to lift the spirit of all those who attend”.

Day tickets are £35 (£30 conc), including chai and the kirtan, and there’s a £6 drop-in charge – where space allows.

Find out more at www.yogafesttotnes.co.uk, or book from April 10 at yogafestotnes@gmail.com or on 07894 444506.

Find some breathing space at retreat

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deep and profound effect EED some on the quality of your breathing space? life, and help in ways A retreat at beyond anything you can Eastdown Retreat Centre imagine. near Cheriton Bishop could be just what you’re “We will explore how looking for. these principles play out in our lives and learn to Enjoy Some Breathing live more from our own Space, a weekend wisdom, which cannot fail retreat between April to increase peace, love 8-10, is hosted by Retreat hosts Les Elms and joy in our life.” transformational breath and Debra Simmons facilitator Les Elms and The weekend will include relationship and lifestyle group breathing sessions coach Debra Simmons and exploration plus in a beautiful retreat plenty of time to enjoy the centre on the edge of beautiful surroundings of Dartmoor. Described as Eastdown. It costs £195 “a weekend of relaxation per person based on two and enlightenment”, people sharing. There Breathing Space is aimed is a £100 supplement at anyone who feels the for single occupancy. need for some time out The cost includes all from the stresses and food (mainly veggie worries of everyday life. and healthy!), accommodation and teaching sessions.

Les will be offering Transformational Breathing to energise and relax and Visit www.debrasimmons.co.uk release self-sabotaging patterns. or www.breathsouthwest.com, or Debra will share three spiritual email debra3ps@gmail.com or principles she believes underlie all life. les@breathsouthwest.com. Further retreats are planned in July and She said: “An understanding of these September. fundamental principles will have a

Coming back home to the body

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Catherine said: “By O you remember, connecting with the as a child, how breath, sound and you played, ran movement we can take and jumped, feeling a rest from our busy completely at ease in your minds, we can inhabit the body? physical form of the body.

Sexual Shamanic Healer “When we learn to and Sexual Empowerment become more embodied Coach Catherine Hale, we can connect with each right, points out that our other, with our lovers relationship with our and family in deeply bodies in childhood is nourishing ways. Touch intimate, pleasurable and becomes a gift of love, deeply connected.

Catherine Hale sexual energy a vehicle for And yet, by the time we healing and transformation, and love reach adulthood this relationship has continues to grow.” deteriorated. We tend to pull away Catherine holds workshops and onefrom our bodies and live mostly in to-one sessions including: Monthly our heads, busy and full of thoughts.

Moon Lodge for All Women, March Consequently we live in the world 17, April 19, May 17, June 22, Totnes; detached from the array of sensations Conscious Touch - The Language of and emotions that course through Love (men and women), April 17, our bodies, separated from valuable Totnes; Body Orgasm (men and information about who we are, what women) July 2 and 3, Totnes. we need and what feels good.

For more information visit www.

Coming back home to the body – so tantricawakening.org or email called embodiment - is at the heart of catherine@tantricawakening.org. the Tantric path.

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WELLBEING

EMOTIONAL HEALTH THIS time, LEIGH SMITH looks at why we should ask for emotional help when we need it and why we sometimes don’t.

And would you know what to do if someone asked YOU for support?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) (Stimulates the immune system to function optimally)

The Bowen Technique

How to help (and be helped)

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O, what do we mean by ‘emotional support’? The dictionary definition of support says: ‘To bear part of or all of the weight’ - which makes me think of the props that builders use to support buildings when they are crumbling.

If we think of ourselves as a ‘building’, with lots going on within us, it makes sense that occasionally a prop may be just what’s needed to hold us up and keep us safe.

Even though it is something we all need at times, giving and receiving support can be a complicated affair, charged with half-remembered messages from our childhood. Think back to the last time your emotional ‘building’ was getting a bit crumbly: perhaps you remember feeling it was all just too much and that you needed a break.

How easy was it for you to ask for help?

For some, asking for the support we need can be a challenge - negative ideas about ‘being pathetic’, ‘weak’ and needing to ‘just get on with it’ can hold us back from seeking much needed support. And these negative thoughts can be so ingrained that we would rather struggle on alone, bearing a huge burden, than reach out for help.

This is a topic I have been exploring with my students recently and together we have uncovered some fascinating thoughts behind why people resist asking for help.

We found unspoken messages like: ‘If you help me this once I will be in your debt forever’; and ‘If I ask someone to help me they will see me as weak and pathetic’. And a question too: ‘Why would somebody even want to help me?’ Any of these sound familiar?

But here is the irony - people love to help!

It feels wonderful to know we have helped another person.

Reaching out and offering support has a positive effect on our wellbeing. It is in our nature to empathise and give support, and when we do we feel worthy and fulfilled.

Hello feel-good factor!

So maybe it is time to look at these old worn out messages about being stoic and hardy.

Perhaps it is time to soften the stiff upper lip in favor of a more receptive and accepting self.

But for some the struggle isn’t with asking for support, it’s knowing how to give it.

How do we reach out and help when we see someone is hurting?

What can we do to offer support when we feel clumsy and useless?

Where do we find our innersupport hero who knows just what to do and say?

The biggest block to giving support is the belief that we have nothing of value to give. This is just not the case: the most valuable thing we can give is our time, our care, and our ability to just be alongside and listen.

Some good sensible tips on giving support: l Use a calm, soothing voice let the person know who you are and that you want to help; l Ask questions that invite the person to tell you what has happened, and listen attentively; l Give the person plenty of time - it’s hard to make sense of things when distressed, so be patient; l Don’t try to make things better with jokes or by sharing similar problems you have experienced; l Don’t try to find the solution or tell the person what they should do; l Stay nearby and offer gentle reassurances like ‘I’m here, you are safe now’ But avoid statements like ‘It will all be ok now’, which might not be true. l Avoid the urge to hug or physically comfort somebody in distress as this can make them feel more vulnerable and restricted.

So the next time we feel we can’t cope, that the walls are caving in, perhaps we might ask for the help we need, and share the burden. And in allowing someone to support us we offer them the chance to connect to their inner-super support hero.

Receiving is giving!

Our greatest superpower is that we care!

Leigh Smith is director of studies, course designer and tutor at Heartwood Centre for Counselling and Psychotherapy Training.

Visit www.heartwoodcounselling.org or call 01803 865464.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Arcturus Clinic, Totnes Home Visits AMANDA MORRIS

CLT – MLDUK – CertECBS – BTPA

For an appointment please call 07931 505 312

amanda@amandamorris.co.uk www.amandamorris.co.uk

BEAUTIFUL ROOMS for Counselling & Psychotherapy.

FOR TALKING THERAPIES AND HOLISTIC HEALTH

www.thepracticerooms.co.uk 15 - 16 Castle Street, Exeter EX4 3PT

Andy Thompson, Clin. Hom, Dip. B.F.D. ‘Helping you to heal yourself’

BioEnergetic Health

An innovative testing and treatment method effective for acute, long-term and difficult-to-diagnose health problems.

Free taster sessions at the BioEnergetic Health Clinic and Greenlife in Totnes

£41.85 07503 111057

www.bioenergetichealth.net

Book a series of ads this size and it will cost you just £41.85 a month - including free editorial. Call Martin on 01803 868455.

Editorial: 01803 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk

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Bethan Parfitt now also works with animals.

Free tasters on the programme at health centre open day

F

Animals pick-up on owners’ emotions

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OMESTIC animals form a powerful connection to their owners and can pick up on their emotions and energy levels, explains Bethan Parfitt who practices as a reflexologist, Reiki practitioner and massage therapist.

Bethan has recently extended her energy healing work to animals and describes her experiences as “amazing”.

She said: “Working on an energetic level allows the body to rebalance and restore itself. Animals can experience pain, illness and behavioural challenges in the same way that we do and those that have had some sort of trauma definitely benefit from energy healing.

“Animals respond to this work by displaying deep relaxation and peace.

This work can also have a positive

impact on their owners.”

Bethan believes that physical ailments and illnesses are often linked to unresolved emotion and inner-conflict.

She trained as an integrative counsellor and her work with people often combines speaking and listening with hands-on therapies. This provides the most powerful way of increasing inner strength and confidence matched with a physical release of tension.

Clients are invited to choose the main emphasis for their treatment, based on what they would like to achieve. If the main aim is relaxation, they can choose reflexology or massage; if they want more emotional support, they can opt for a counselling session, or a combination of both counselling and complementary therapies.

Visit www.divineblossom.co.uk or call 07541 748140.

ANCY giving your health a boost for Spring? The Arcturus Clinic - the complementary health centre in the heart of Totnes – is holding a free public open day on Saturday April 23, 10am-3pm.

It could be just the thing for you if you don’t yet know your kinesiology from your hypothyroidism!

The open day will include free taster sessions, talks and introductory consultations, as well as healthy drinks and nibbles. Practitioners will be on hand to talk about their treatments and answer questions and some of them will be giving out discount vouchers.

Arcturus was established in 1995, offering complementary medical practices, holistic therapies and professional natural healthcare. It is renowned for acupuncture, homeopathy and counselling, as well as the popular Oasis Float and massage centre with its Epson salt float pool.

Over the past 21 years, Arcturus has become a hub for natural health and wellbeing and an established

part of the Totnes community.

The centre also offers Bowen technique, kinesiology, life coaching, Western herbalism, colonic hydrotherapy, nutritional advice and a range of different energy healing.

The Arcturus Centre’s director, Dr Stephen Hopwood, integrates Western medical experience with traditional Chinese medicine, offering a unique holistic perspective on health and wellbeing.

He said: “Life is short and wellbeing is precious and it’s easy to let it drift by without taking our health as seriously as we should. The Arcturus Clinic can help you to unwind and relax, and our experienced practitioners will show you how to make yourself feel so much better!”

There is a free weekly workshop at Arcturus every Wednesday between 12 and 2pm with therapists on hand to give constructive health support advice and look at how to work with chronic diseases.

For more information about the range of treatments on offer and the open day and weekly workshops, visit www. arcturusclinic.co.uk.

Help to reframe our view of abuse

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TRADITIONAL MASSAGE FROM EAST & WEST

Holistic Oil Massage Deep Tissue Massage Thai Yoga Massage Thai Foot Massage Tok Sen Available to teach Thai Yoga Massage

Call Isha Olsen-Wells on 07805419864 ishahahaha@hotmail.com Based in the Totnes & at the Ola Centre

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OMESTIC abuse awareness trainer Sue Ley teaches people how to recognise just what domestic abuse is.

Sue explained that domestic abuse can often be seen “through a lens of normal behaviour.”

Her skill is to help people to reframe the way they look at domestic abuse, giving them new insights and helping them understand the challenges of being a victim.

She explained: “The lens of normal behaviour excuses the perpetrator of abuse and normalises the abuser’s actions.

The myth of an abuser’s anger as ‘being out of control’ is a perception that comes from seeing the abuser through this type of ‘normal reality’ lens.

“Research has proven that the perpetrator of abuse abuses in order to gain control and power over their partner.

“The abuser may use a range of different tactics to exert this control. I call this the abuser’s toolkit, and it contains all the tools needed to maintain control

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and domination over the partner.

One of these tools is anger – and that anger is used to incite fear and exert control.”

Sue also runs Pattern Changing courses for women who have been affected by domestic abuse, as well as providing domestic abuse awareness training.

She added: “Domestic abuse robs the victim of her self-esteem.

It has a devastating effect on a woman and her life. Pattern Changing sheds light on the reality of abuse and can help a woman to reclaim and change the direction of her life.”

The Pattern Changing course runs for 15 sessions, in small groups, and offers a supportive and safe environment.

Visit www.endabuseuk.org.uk or email sueley222@gmail.com.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk

WELLBEING SUNDAO - The Path to your Power within

Discover practically that YOU ARE the greatest master of your life Ancient mind/body disciplines put into gentle, yet very effective method You will leave the workshop with: ❙ Clear connection to your own inner-guidance

When? May 21st 2016, from 10am – 4.30pm

❙ Totally revitalized mind, body and heart

Contact Anna Purdy on 07818301492 or email britt33@interia.pl

Where? Milford Room, Kenn Centre, Exeter Road, Kennford EX6 7UE How much? Special introductory price of £85

❙ Deeper sense of purpose of your life, work and relationship ❙ Inner-peace, self-acceptance, love and compassion

Wayne Kealohi playing Hawaiian music.

Shaman brings Hawaiian-style healing workshops to Devon

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AWAIIAN healing is coming to the UK from Kauai this September with a visit from renowned shaman of Hawaiianstyle bodywork Wayne Kealohi.

The Birth of Miracles UK Tour takes place in and around Totnes from September 14-28.

Wayne will be offering: Hawaiian Shamanic Bodywork Training; Personal Healing Sessions; Traditional Lomilomi Massage Training, Ho’oponopono Sacred Circle and an in-depth introduction to Kahuna Science.

He says: “We offer people the opportunity to discover a deeper experience of love and to prepare for what is happening to our beloved Earth and her people at this time. People come from all walks of life and from many countries to awaken and celebrate their passion, and find their true inner joy, their mission and their purpose. We help them OPEN and OPEN and OPEN to self-love profound.

“Many layers of trauma/drama are shed and many ‘resentments’ are let go of, and finally here you are, whole and perfect, innocent and FREE - just the way you were born!

The old become young and the young become mature.”

The Birth of Miracles introduces some of the basics of Kahuna Science as a way to heal the bodymind, and align the ‘soul cluster’.

Ho’oponopono ~ Freedom for the Soul, is an ancient Hawaiian practice of radical forgiveness, based on clearing resentment, fear and judgment. It opens a clear the path to divinity by sweeping away painful attachments that stand in the way of forgiving. The Ho’oponopono Sacred Circle will invoke the healing power of your Higher Self and call on your ancestors to end separation and return you to wholeness. “We will witness the birth of a miracle for everyone in the circle!” said Wayne.

“Heartworks Lomilomi is a traditional form of holistic Hawaiian massage which works through the body-mind with a Waterfall of Aloha. I’m offering an intensive four-day programme to learn this deeply relaxing form of massage the day after the Ho’oponopono Circle - no previous experience is required.”

Visit www.shamanicbodywork.com// flyers/UK%20Tour_2016.php

Katheryn Trenshaw Passionate Presence Centre for Creative Expression phone: +44 (0) 1803 863552 skype: katheryntrenshaw email: post@ktrenshaw.com

Re-Membering l Re-Invention l Re-Vision Two-hour, one-to-one sessions for professional, personal and artistic development - by phone or Skype Feel welcome to sign up for our free newsletter at

www.passionatepresence.org www.reconnectonline.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co.uk

est. 1999

Award winning, family owned funeral directors and celebrants for 24/7 care “Your skill, kindness, compassion and sensitivity to me and the children in every situation was extraordinary.... Your work is remarkable and if you need any recommendation, ask me!”

Lizzie Hubbard

gentle – thoughtful - inclusive Totnes 01803 840779 Buckfastleigh 01364 643522

www.heartandsoulfunerals.co.uk Editorial: 01803 01803 868455 868455 editor@reconnectonline.co.uk editor@reconnectonline.co.uk Editorial:

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Louise Tremayne - helping people deal with stress and anxiety.

WELLBEING Love Nature?

Love Yoga?

www.treesforhealth.org www.intoyogaandnature.co.uk liz@treesforhealth.org liz@intoyogaandnauture.co.uk 07765 631877

Yoga classes & nature retreats Pop-up yoga outdoors Agroforestry volunteering, tours & camps, wild food Advice on edible gardens/landscapes

Louise can help you beat stress COACH and therapist Louise Tremayne knows about stress. After 10 years as a software engineer for a large corporation she hit major burnout and major stress and anxiety.

But she learnt from the experience and now specialises in helping people learn tools to help them deal with their stress and anxiety.

“I believe in empowering my clients to be able to help themselves when they need it the most,” said Louise.

As a coach, EFT practitioner and therapist Louise teaches techniques that can be used immediately to reduce stress and anxiety.

Louise offers sessions face-to-face in Exeter and Tavistock and online.

She has helped clients as far afield as Japan and the USA and would love to help you – call her on 07866 013 637, visit www. freeflowingenergy.co.uk, read her blog at http://devoneft.com/ or find her on Twitter (http:// twitter.com/FFELou) or Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/ freeflowingenergy).

Liz adds yoga to her natural role

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Mark Edlund Plater

Member of the British Acupuncture Council

Acupuncture Integrated Method

Practice for 19 years in Totnes Fees are based on income or means

01803 862803 07506 179808

mark.edlundplater@gmail.com

Handmade, herbal, vegan, natural & eco-friendly body care products Local outlets: •

The Chelston Wellbeing Centre, Torquay

•

Oats Healthy Living Store, Brixham (or mail order)

www.greenwyse.co.uk --Consultations with Dawn Ireland Medical Herbalist www.torbay-herbalist.co.uk 07962 664 294

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Acupuncture integrated method

OVE Nature? Love Yoga? If so, Trees for Health and Into Yoga and Nature offer you a variety of experiences.

Liz Turner, who runs Trees for Health’s agroforestry project Discover Forest Foods, growing many perennial crops, recently cemented her decade-long love of yoga by training as a teacher and setting up Into Yoga and Nature.

She teaches Hatha yoga, which means ‘uniting polar energies’ and brings harmony to body and mind, and Traditional Tantra, an energetic approach that sees everything as interrelated.

“Breathing into tree pose may seem very different to planting oaks and apples, but they really do have something in common – apart from me!” says Liz. “Trees for Health was inspired by the health benefits from being in nature and our apparent loss of connection from it, providing opportunities for reconnection through tree-based activities.”

So why the attraction to yoga?

Planting trees has health benefits for planter and the environment and is indeed a spiritual and life-giving act. But it is also very practical and Liz found this needed balance!

She said: “Yoga helps me to strengthen my body and calm the mind - and yes, feel more receptive to a connection with nature.

“Classes are strengthening and relaxing, giving time to observe energetic effects and let go of tension. Students can identify aspects they want to work on – eagle pose, breath of fire, heart meditation and much more.”

Liz also runs yoga retreats, which

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include meditative walking, wild food, influences of Goethean Science and even connecting with others through massage. Some events will include harvesting and outdoor cooking at Discover Forest Foods.

Look out too for ‘pop-up yoga’ outdoors on Beltane, Equinoxes and Solstices to connect even more with nature and Earth/ Cosmic energies recognised in Tantra. Liz is also leading a Spiritual Heart meditation at the Aller Park Project in Dartington.

Meanwhile, Trees for Health is running camps at Discover Forest Foods – agroforestry tasks, children’s activities, fire cooking, evenings around the fire and workshops (permaculture, wild food, perennial crops, yoga, fermented foods). Volunteer days and tours are also on offer.

Finally, Liz is offering consultation to help people introduce edible species – or craft, medicinal, wood - into their gardens, smallholdings or farms.

Visit www.treesforhealth.org and www.intoyogaandnature.co.uk, email liz@treesforhealth.org or liz@ intoyogaandnature.co.uk and call 07765 631877.

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Visit us at www.reconnectonline.co.uk

WELLBEING

Connecting to the wholeness obscured by symptoms

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LL too often, people suffering from a chronic condition can forget who they were without the symptoms – what life was like without the ‘condition’.

An important part of any practitioner’s consultation process is client history what has brought the client to the clinic, what is problematic, out of balance, causing suffering or stress and so on.

But, says craniosacral therapist Lea Zaccari, while this is an important part of the treatment process, it is also only one part of the picture.

“One of the wonderful things I see when clients receive craniosacral therapy is a shift of perspective or focus, like a widening and reframing of the picture that they have of themselves and their wellbeing.

“Over time I see a whole new experience of self becomes available to the client as their system is again able to reconnect to a wider sense of wellness, wholeness and health - health

that is not separate from the symptoms that bought them to the clinic, but that is often obscured from view.”

Craniosacral therapy helps to facilitate the client’s natural and innate state of health and wellness to come into focus, says Lea. “Because craniosacral therapy can work on so many levels,” she explains, “it can be very effective for a huge range of issues, including: problems with the nervous system; a particular organ; the injured tissues from a car accident; the shock residue of birth trauma for mother, partner and child; the emotional, psychological and physical recovery from an operation; the effects of loss and bereavement; depression; anxiety; or postural problems to name but a few.

Lea Zaccari - bringing wellness into focus.

“For me it is always such a pleasure and an honour to be part of the healing that can happen through this way of working. I am constantly surprised and in awe of how amazing this work can be for people of all ages and conditions.”

Sessions cost £35 an hour (£20 per session for babies and young children) and concessions are available. Call Lea, who works in Totnes, on 07473 324730, or email cst.with.lea@gmail.com.

One-stop hub for health, happiness - and food!

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RE you a health-conscious, busy woman? Short on time, but long on taking care of yourself and your loved ones?

Love good food, but aren’t sure where to find nutritious, delicious recipes at the touch of a computer key? Want recipe inspiration, health information, wellbeing motivation instead of Google overload confusion?

Then look no further! As The Functional Foodie, Reconnect columnist Jane Hutton set out with a mission to create a one-stop shop for health, happiness and great food.

The Functional Foodie hub site has now launched, making that dream a reality. It features memberships, recipes and programmes - everything the health-conscious busy woman needs, and all in one place.

Full Foodie annual membership is just £55 in April for an entire year of recipe inspiration, monthly health focuses and a building library of health resources, advice and even more recipes.

Specialist programmes are also available for those looking for targeted advice, beginning with breast cancer recovery and autoimmune conditions.

Says Jane: RECONNECT’S own Jane Hutton, The Functional Foodie - visit “From her new one-stop hub site. shopping lists to Chronic the chance now to lock in a year of Fatigue recovery, it’s all here, making amazing content for an incredible your life, and your health, so much price.” easier!

To start you off with delicious health the “Enjoy a scout round the blog and Functional Foodie way, all members free recipe section for a taste of what’s or subscribers receive a free healthy on offer, or join as a freebie member eating resource, Your Happy, Healthy to try a little more before deciding Day, complete with recipes and on taking the full Foodie plunge. The shopping list. Enjoy, and get cooking! annual subscription will rise monthly Visit www.functional-foodie.com/ as the information grows, so you have

Mindfulness and its role in coaching COACHING and mindfulness go hand in hand, according to Sarah Ward and Jenni Elise Toulson.

They are holding a one-day workshop called The Mindful Therapist to explore how developing a mindful practice will benefit both the coach and client.

Sarah said: “Increasingly, mindfulness is becoming an essential tool for coaches and counsellors, not simply as a skill to teach but as a practice to embody.

“A study by performance psychologist Gordon Spence showed that coaches who undergo mindfulness training are likely to experience higher levels of mental and emotional flexibility. In particular, coaches with mindfulness skills have improved focus and concentration, increased presence and better awareness of others’ emotional and mental states.”

A key benefit is the important role a mindful practice plays in decreasing the emotional exhaustion coaches can suffer.

Jenni and Sarah have over 25 years’ experience as business leaders and coaches and are qualified to teach mindfulness in the workplace, including an accredited NVQ Level 4 qualification tailored for Coaches and Counsellors.

The workshop, on April 16 in the Nautilus Rooms, Totnes, will cover: l Why Mindfulness has become a buzz word- What mindfulness is - and what it isn’t; l The principles of mindfulness and how it can be applied in coaching and counselling; l The neuro-scientific evidence; l How mindfulness supports greater wellbeing, personal insight, decision-making, empathy and motivation; l How to use mindfulness to tackle common coaching and counselling challenges.

Call Sarah on 07860 102047 or Jenni on 07816 065878. www. insight4.ltd.uk

Experienced psychotherapist, counsellor and supervisor

sensitivity, kindness, and calm, combined with her “ Hélène’s non-judgemental insight have enabled me to make immensely significant and positive personal changes. ” Hélène Demetriades MBACP Senior Accredited Dartington, Totnes info@helenedemetriades.co.uk 01803 868655 www.helenedemetriades.co.uk THE GENTLE BUT POWERFUL METAMORPHIC TECHNIQUE IS ALSO AVAILABLE.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk www.reconnectonline.co.uk

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BODYMIND THERAPY

FOR READERS... an at-a-glance, alphabetical listing for services and products and workshop and courses diary.

FOR ADVERTISERS...these pages are the most affordable way to get your message across. Single and double column boxes are just £55 and £98, respectively. We can help with content and design. The lineage ads cost just 90p a word, with a minimum of 20 words.

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COMING Home to Yourself - Integrative Somatic Therapy for Women, Mindfulnessbased. Trauma release, personal story work, creativity coaching.

Agata Krajewska ATH Registered.

07795002816, www. yournaturalpresence. com.

BOWEN THERAPY

CAROLINE JONES practices at Natures Larder in Ivybridge.

Bowen gently encourages natural healing and balance, 01548 821058, carolinejones67@ hotmail.com http:// carolinejones.simpl.com

GRIEF SUPPORT

REFLEXOLOGY

CATALYSING CHANGE Counselling and Psychotherapy with Adrian Harris, PhD, MSc.Integrative humanistic approach grounded in embodied spirituality and ecotherapy. Free initial consultation then £30 per session, 07974427419, adrian@gn.apc.org, www.adrianharris.org.

COUNSELLING

DAVID OXLEY MA Fully qualified Accredited BACP counsellor and psychotherapist.

Psychosynthesis and Core Process. Working with Relationship, Depth, Integrity and Soul. Central Exeter, Totnes and Plymouth. Www. davidoxleycounselling. co.uk 07876 051093.

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GRIEVING and want relief? Supportive sessions by donation @ Bowden House, Totnes, with counsellor/ author Carmella B’Hahn, carmella@ heartofrelating.com, 01803 867005, www. heartofrelating.com.

HEALING

HOLISTIC COUNSELLOR specialising in trauma/ abuse, and for those feelings/emotions difficult to put into words.

Working with art, sand and outside among nature. Annie, www. natureswaycounselling .co.uk, call 07760 439760.

CREATIVE COUNSELLOR Heartful, Supportive Counselling. Creative Exercises including Art, Sandplay, etc.

Adults, Young People, some concs available.

Ruth Jenni Adv Dip Couns, 07974097787, www.oakflower. co.uk. Dartington, Buckfastleigh, Newton Abbot and on Skype.

HEALING - an effective therapy assisting the body to renew each cell and heal itself. Helps with fertility, stress, cancer, plus more. Emma Burgess, Teignmouth, 01626870740, www. healinglight-tarot.com.

METAMORPHIC TECHNIQUE

HELENE DEMETRIADES - Metamorphic Technique. My next available workshop is May 20-21 in Dartington. Please see my website at www. helenedemetriades. co.uk.

MOON LODGE

MONTHLY Moon Lodge.

WORKSHOPS&COURSES MONDAYS

MONTHLY Crystal Circle, practical, informative crystal evenings. Marldon, 7-9pm £18, Mondays April 18, May 16, 20th June 20, July 18, Aug 15. Jane Jones ICGT GRAD, 07791939208.

TUESDAYS

QIGONG with Daverick Leggett. Tuesdays 5.407pm at the Mansion Hall, Totnes. New classes begin April 12 and June 7. Learn the self-healing art of Qigong with a highly experienced teacher, www.qigong-southwest. co.uk, 07708 914336.

YOGA, Chapel House Studios, Totnes, 7.309pm, £6 first class, then £8 drop-in, £7 for booking minimum of four classes, liz@ intoyogaandnature. co.uk, 07765 631877 THURSDAYS

RELAX, cleanse, strengthen. Full-hour, £5 off first treatment.

Discount for three treatments. Nicola – Reflexology Practitioner, based Totnes Natural Health Centre. MBRCP R Assoc BRCP OM, 07522 344291, nicolasuzanne@ hotmail.co.uk.

SO-IS-IT HEALING

CONSCIOUS TOUCH

THE LANGUAGE of Love (men and women) April 17, Totnes; Body Orgasm (men and women) July 2 and 3, Totnes, catherine@ tantricawakening.org, www.tantricawakening. org.

For all Women, March 17, April 19, May 17, June 22, Totnes catherine@ tantricawakening.org , www.tantricawakening. org.

Martin’s gone walkabout - find his column on page 22!

USING Words, Sound, Music, Movement, Energy, Mudras. To help any problem (physical, emotional, mental, spiritual).

Bookings, call 01752 500426. Many blessings from illona.

YOGA

HEART Meditation - Intro to Heart Consciousness ‘space of the heart’, short yoga session/ nature activity, Hridaya (or Spiritual Heart) Meditation (inspired by Ramana Maharshi). Aller Park Project, Dartington, Thursdays every fortnight – April 14 and 28, May 12 and 26. By donation, liz@ intoyogaandnature. co.uk 07765 631877

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YOGA, Harbour House, Kingsbridge, 1011.30am, £6 first class, then £7.50 drop-in, £7 for booking minimum of four classes, liz@ intoyogaandnature. co.uk, 07765 631877.

FRIDAYS

QIGONG at St John’s Church Hall, Tones, with Brad Richecoeur, 10-11.30am. Suitable for all levels, new students welcome.

01364 644040, www. qigong-southwest. co.uk.

APRIL TUESDAY 19

TRE Trauma Release Workshop. Come and learn how to release deeply held tension, safely, comfortably, naturally and with ease. Reactivate your instinctive tremor mechanism and feel the release! 6-9pm, £25, Jo Hamilton, 07714253992, jopureyoga@ gmail.com, www. itsallaboutfeelingbetter. co.uk/TRE. SATURDAY 30

POP-UP yoga, Beltane Eve, Leechwell Gardens, Totnes, 3-4pm, by donation (half to charity), liz@ intoyogaandnature. co.uk, 07765 631877.

MAY SUNDAY 8

YOGA and Wild Food, Harbour House, Kingsbridge and East

Prawle, yoga, healthy treats, yoga nidra (deep relaxation), coastal walk, wild food - leaves and seaweed, meditation, 10am-4.30pm, £45 (early bird £40).

FRI 27-MON 30

QIGONG Walking Holiday. A long weekend on Dartmoor with Daverick Leggett and Graeme McCracken.

Wild walks, daily Qigong and Dao Yin, nutritious food, good company, www.qigong-southwest. co.uk, 07708 914336.

SATURDAY 30

INTRODUCTION to Permaculture at Landmatters Co-op. £40 investment. Visit www.landmatters. org.uk, or e-mail landmatterscourses@ yahoo.co.uk.

JUNE June 25-26th

HUAGONG QIGONG with Master Zhixing Wang at Dartington Hall, The Health of the Five Organs. South Devon.

07708 914336, www. qigong-southwest.co.uk.

SOUTHWEST Dharma Celebration, Medicine Buddha and teachings on healing the mind, Plymouth Guildhall, swdharmacelebration. org.uk, 01752 224137.

JULY July 22-31

RISE UP Singing Voice Camp. Dartmoort. Sing your heart out from dawn til dusk and beyond. Top quality teachers, exquisite site, delicious food, heartfelt community. With Helen Yeomans, Roxane Smith, Gavin Frank, Rob Carney and more, www. riseupsinging.co.uk, 07708 914336.

AUGUST AUG 5-14

QIGONG Summer Camp on Dartmoor, with Daverick Leggett, Brad Richecoeur and friends. A profound life changing experience that nourishes the heart, revitalises the body and refreshes the spirit.

07708 914336, www. qigong-southwest.co.uk.

AUG 8-SEPT 4

FULL Permaculture Design Course at Landmatters Co-op. £690 investment. Visit www.landmatters. org.uk, or e-mail landmatterscourses@ yahoo.co.uk.

www.reconnectonline.co.uk

MINDFULNESS FOR EVERYDAY LIFE. SAT MORNING OF MINDFULNESS 23RD APRIL, 10AM – 12.30 8-WEEK MINDFULNESS COURSE MON 9TH MAY, 7.00PM-9.00PM TUES 10TH MAY, 10.30-12.30 A DAY OF MINDFULNESS SUN 22ND MAY, 10.30-3.30PM (FOR THOSE WHO HAVE COMPLETED AN 8 WEEK COURSE) 8-WEEK MINDFULNESS COURSE FOR CANCER THURS 19TH MAY 2016

www.barefootmindfulness.co.uk

Contact us for more information: T: 01752 777239 E: mindful@barefootmindfulness.co.uk A: 1 Officers Quarters, Crownhill Fort, Crownhill Fort Road, Plymouth PL6 5BX

Genesis

Create a life you love

The Genesis programme is a two and a half day programme that will change your life.

In this extraordinary course, will introduce you to the exciting, life-changing power of Narrative Transformation.

You will learn: ▶ What’s holding you back in life ▶ How to become the author of your life not a victim of circumstance ▶ The secret to creating a life you love By changing the negative beliefs, perceptions and ideas that hold you back, anything becomes possible.

If you only do one thing for yourself this year, do this.

Here’s what people say about Genesis: “I got a huge amount from the programme. Far more than I could ever have imagined. It was brilliantly conceived, perfectly paced and really exciting.”

“I got reconnected to a part of myself that I have been missing for a considerable time.”

The Genesis programme costs £199. It is part of the Experience Living series.

For more information call 01392 346224 Dates of the next programme: April 15-17 June 10-12 To book, visit https://www.interbe.co/archive/experience-living-genesis/

Changing stories, changing lives

“I made a massive shift at the weekend and let go of something that had kept me stuck and caused me pain and anguish for as long as I can remember.”

“I would love to have the opportunity to send every member of my family on this course (and friends) what a wonderful gift that would be…”