11 minute read
Book Review
Book Review by Deborah Huck
It’s quite miraculous when a book finds you and simply never leaves you. This book was recommended to me over 20 years ago and yet, is still as relevant today. I was so meant to read this book, it came at just the right moment in my life. So I was travelling with my sister through Thailand, one night in a bar we met a couple called Terry & Jesus (he actually looked liked Jesus). Very quickly we struck up a beautiful connection and she told me all about this amazing book that I simply had to read - The Celestine Prophecy - a book about the pursuit of a secret ancient Manuscript found in the rain forest of Peru, containing profound insights & wisdom, woven within a story of adventure & discovery. It sounded so compelling that I wrote it down on a bit of paper and placed it securely in the pocket of my shorts. We hugged and said our farewells and yet our chance meeting felt orchestrated by something bigger than us all. A few days later we were preparing to leave the island to continue our ad-venture and decided to take our clothes to the laundry. When we eventually got our clothes back (that’s another story!) I realised I had left the bit of paper in my shorts - I checked the pocket and pulled it out, only to discover a blank piece of paper, my heart sank - I had no way of contacting them. Fast forward a couple of weeks and we were on another island, sitting in a restaurant and watching the world go by, who should walk past but… yep you guessed it - Terry & Jesus - what
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were the chances of that? My mind was totally blown, it felt significant & yet unexplainable - this is what the book is about. The chance encounters in life that lead us to understanding how energy is everything & that we are all connected. When we returned back to the UK, I bought the book - its one of those books that you can read again & again - it’s full of ‘aha’ moments, profound wisdom and helps you to unravel & understand with clarity, why you are where you are in life. It helps to direct & propel you forward with renewed optimism. It’s a book that comes along, just once in a life time to change you forever. I hope it’s as life changing for you, as it was for me - enjoy.
At Breathe Therapies, after 10 years of treating Eating Disorders, Obesity, Wellbeing Services and Mental Health issues, we wholeheartedly believe that recovery is possible.
Permanent recovery. We don’t just treat symptoms, but with each person who comes for assessment, we explore the roots of their problems and design an individualized course of therapeutic treatment to heal underlying issues.
Our team includes psychotherapists, mental health nurses, clinical psychologist, practitioners of CBT, SSCM, NLP, EMDR, ACT and hypnotherapy, as well as counsellors and a nutritionist. We offer clients the most effective combination for their needs, and adapt treatment plans to each stage of the recovery journey. As one client put it: “the service offered by Breathe is unique and incredible.”
Breathe Therapies is a not-for-profit organization, founded by ex-sufferer experienced and specialist Mental Health Nurse of 30 years, Shelley Perry. As well as clinicians, trained volunteers provide free support groups and lowcost counselling sessions, through the charity S.E.E.D. Families and carers are offered specialist support.
“The whole team… care passionately about their clients and families.” (Testimonial).
At Breathe we welcome people denied by other services because they don’t fit in a box measured by BMI or typical symptoms. And we are thankful to be able to make a real difference. “I will never be able to thank Shelley and the team enough for saving my daughter’s life,” wrote one mother.
Everyone needs to care for their physical and mental health. Breathe Therapies’ Wellbeing pathway is open to all, offering beneficial activities and treatments such as reflexology, massage, pilates and yoga. We offer Corporate Wellbeing and Resilience programmes, which can have a very positive effect on the attendance rate and engagement of employees, and the stress levels of Directors!
WHY ARE WE DIFFERENT?
We acknowledge that often individuals with one mental health issue have other psychiatric co – morbidities such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), addictions and bipolar, therefore, individuals need a care plan catered to their specific needs, which Breathe can provide. We take a holistic approach to a person’s individual treatment, which takes into
account the person as a whole and all of their needs. We offer treatment for all ages and receive referrals on a private basis, from GP’s, Commissioners and Social Services.
Our aim is to address the deep-rooted underlying issues, as well as the presenting symptoms and develop individuals in all areas of their life. For example, when individuals experience pain (either physical, mental or emotional) it can stunt motivation and interest and/or disruption in other areas of life. Breathe will work with you on setting and addressing your goals with strategies and coping mechanisms to ‘change the way you think and change the way you feel!’.
We aim to provide treatment that has a significant long-term benefit and relapse prevention rather than the historically delivered short term solutions with a higher possibility of relapse. We don’t have a restricted catchment area and offer remote services wherever your residence e.g. Facetime, Zoom or Skype. Our dedication and energy towards wellbeing is experienced
through the treatment we provide; the team at Breathe is different – we care and as we wholeheartedly believe recovery is possible!
Telephone: 01772 915 735 Website: www.breathetherapies.co.uk email: reception@breathetherapies.co.uk Facebook: Breathe Therapies Twitter: @breathetherapy
We offer online and virtual treatment and therapies
The North Lakes Hotel and
Spa is located on the edge of Penrith, the picturesque market town in Cumbria’s Eden Valley. Easily accessed from the motorway, this fourstar hotel is the ideal base from which to explore the stunning Lake District, or most importantly, unwind in the award-winning Spa and enjoy some fabulous pampering. Treatments include luxurious body massage, body scrubs and purifying facials for glowing skin. All treatments use glamorous French skincare brand Caudalie, which is a range that combines the latest scientific cosmetic techniques with the ancient secrets from the family-owned vineyards in Bordeaux. The vines and grapes within the vineyards possess exceptional powers for the skin, which have been developed into award-winning, scientifically proven skin products with gorgeous textures and aromas that are not only heavenly on the skin, but deliver remarkable results. Treatments are delivered by therapists who are extensively trained to deliver the ultimate in luxurious, indulgent experiences. One of the signature therapies personally recommended by North Lakes’ Head Therapist, Bethan (pictured), is the Caudalie Cranial Massage. This massage simultaneously stimulates reactions in the whole body, helping to rebalance the energies of the nervous system. Bethan has been with
North Lakes for six years and following her completion of the advanced treatment training, she now leads the Spa team to deliver exceptional therapies in a relaxing environment. When Bethan isn’t exploring the Lakes with her husband and two dogs, she’s co-ordinating a series of exciting and inspiring Spa events. Bethan and the Spa team are always happy to discuss treatments in depth with clients to ensure they have the best possible experience. For the ultimate in relaxation, North Lakes has a range of sumptuous spa days to choose from, but when one day simply isn’t enough, there’s an option of one- or two-night spa breaks for those wanting an extended treat.
My friend Ann and I were feeling excited about spending a day at the North Lakes Hotel and Spa. We booked in for our treatments and were shown to the upstairs relaxation area by Emily. Our private changing rooms had everything we needed. We changed into the fluffy soft grey robes and were shown to the pool area downstairs. We immediately felt at home in the pool area, which was warm and cosy. Loungers were placed around the pool for relaxation and drinks were available on request. This made the whole experience most welcoming and enjoyable. The gorgeous pool was nice and warm. Around one edge of the pool there was a wide seat and this thoughtful touch allowed us to stop and have a rest or a chat, rather than holding on to the side of the pool. After our dip, we walked back through the ladies’ changing area and decided to relax in the lovely sauna for a while. There is also a sauna in the men’s changing area. Following this, we returned to the treatment rooms, where I had booked in for a twenty-five minute taster back massage session with Suzy, who used gorgeous Caudalie products. The tension that I had previously felt in my shoulders quickly melted away, and I could definitely feel the benefits, even over this short period of time. Taster treatments are a great idea, especially if you have not had a massage before, or would like to combine this with a different taster treatment. Ann opted for the Des Vignes taster session – a facial with shoulder rub. Once cleansed, face lifting oil moisturiser was applied followed by an eye lifting balm. To complete the North Lakes Hotel & Spa
treatment, refreshing grape water menthol was gently spritzed over her face. Lying under our respective towels for the duration of the treatments, we felt so completely relaxed that we didn’t want it to end. Once changed, we went downstairs to the beautiful restaurant area. This is bright and airy and leads on to a fabulous terrace. We chose the buffet option, which is a perfect way to sample the variety of food available. I opted for the delicious smoked salmon risotto with fresh salad. Ann chose the very tasty smoked chicken with salad. The restaurant also offers a good selection of tempting desserts and a drinks menu. In summary, this was a brilliant day from start to finish. We really didn’t want to leave, but there’s always the next time. Review by Nicky Hossack
I recently visited the home of a therapist with an alternative style and grace. Roots of Life magazine welcomes Christian Stones.
Christian has gained a wealth of experience, both personally and professionally, and has a great insight into what makes a person tick. He skillfully guides clients to achieve their life goals, change their direction and break free from all mental suffering and addiction.
How do you conduct a therapy session? “The initial session’s about understanding what’s going on with the client. I explain a little about my personal story and becoming familiar with each other as we establish a rapport. I listen to everything that the client wishes to share without pressure to go into any detail that would make them feel uncomfortable. Some clients like to share and others like to keep quiet and listen more. Both approaches work well. There’s a fair bit of unlearning on the part of the client whilst I’m sharing direct experiences, knowledge and insights. The client often begins to see things in a different light from as early as the very first session.”
Do clients willingly open up about their thoughts and feelings? “Some clients fully embrace the therapy sessions and are comfortable when sharing and listening. Equally, some folk prefer to take part in a video call in the convenience of their own surroundings. I've found others who “don’t do therapies” per se, seem more willing to chat and open up in the outdoors. Through experience, a bike ride or walk on the local fells, even suggesting the client brings their dog is creating ease and familiarity. This often enables conversations to flow more naturally.”
What type of problems do clients seek help with? “Clients seek help with all kinds of things that are affecting and restricting their lives. These range from anxiety/depression, personal and relationship issues, business and work related matters, and various addictions. What benefits can a client expect? “A client who is ready to receive will gain transformative life changes. These sessions uncover their true identity. Old beliefs, ideas and habits fall away effortlessly. Clients comment on connecting with a more authentic version of themselves, hearing truth for the first time and experiencing an overwhelming calm, inner peace and clarity like never before. It really is kind of magical!”
Frank Allison
