Issue 63 by Blue Sax Publishing Ltd

FRE

the spark Changes start with...

the best of the alternative west

winter issue 63 â&#x20AC;˘ dec - feb 2011

come on in.. the winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lovely!

! E E FR

l get fired up & be inspired by our essential local events guide l everything from acupuncture to zen in our unique A-Z directory l holistic health, local food, community, activism, green & ethical living

l WIN Cornish eco-coat, Bristol book bundle, William Bloom workshops

M O D E R N S P I RI T UA L I TY with

W I L L I A M B LO O M Open Hearts, Independent Minds – I am proud of the kind of people who attend my courses, exploring the benefits of modern spirituality. Socially engaged and emotionally literate, these workshops offer concepts and skills that you can use and share immediately. They are for anyone seeking to clarify and deepen their own spirituality, and for those whose work may include a spiritual or pastoral dimension. In essence, becoming more compassionate and conscious.

M AR CH 1 2 / 1 3

J U N E 1 1 / 12

The Endorphin Effect – Mind-Body Health and Well-Being

Your Heroic Journey – The Psychology of Spiritual Development

Learn the precise concepts and techniques for triggering endorphins, the ‘miracle’ hormones of wellbeing. They relax tissue, remove pain and create the physical sensations of pleasure. At the same time, the flow and absorption of vitality/chi/prana is greatly improved. You can use these techniques even when exhausted or on overload. Feeling good? Feel better. Improve and maintain your physical and mental health. Support healing and rehabilitation. Manage your own body chemistry – no drugs. Burnout decreased. Bedside manner improved. In formal situations, William teaches these strategies as Practical Applied Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI).

Spirituality is the most meaningful personal journey in the world, seeking a state of complete compassion and awakedness. But be realistic. There are psychological realities and challenges, resistance and confusion, sometimes extreme highs and lows – dark nights of the soul and spiritual emergencies – as we wake, grow and fulfil. This weekend will give you the map, skills and insights to understand, manage, heal and integrate these dynamics – supporting your spiritual fulfilment. “Your talent for leading with intuition and compassion, without prescribing or becoming the authority, is remarkable. I feel more firmly grounded and embedded in my spiritual practice now with a deeper, dependable sense of spiritual connection.”

‘Profound yet universal and easily applied… good for your health at all levels.’ Dr S. Miller, Penny Brohn Cancer Help Centre

‘A genius. Finally someone who separates new age nonsense from spiritual reality.’ Caroline Myss

A PR IL 9 / 1 0

J U LY 1 6 /17

Three Golden Keys – The Power of Modern Spirituality

Strong and Clear – Holistic Leadership, Group Dynamics and Speaking Your Truth

An oasis in which to explore, clarify and deepen your spirituality. How you connect with the wonder and energy of nature and all existence. How you reflect and guide the growth of your compassion and consciousness. Understanding your highest values so as to live a life of service and benefit to others. Working from the heart of all spiritual approaches. Healing and meditation. “Thank you for a truly inspirational programme. A perfect blend of reflection, activity, meditation and discussion, so gracefully and expertly facilitated. I learned so much on so many levels.”

There are powerful unseen energetic and psychological dynamics that are at work in groups, relationships and communications. This workshop will give you an effective understanding and the skills to manage them. This will improve your leadership and communications skills across many situations, including work, friends and home. • Lead with an energetic presence that encourages and supports. • Work with the spirit and archetypes of your group. • Manage group energies and challenges. • Clarify and ground your purpose and vision. “For me the learning always becomes clearer when real life situations present themselves. Your course has helped this week in instances where I have been challenged about my intentions regarding a project I am setting up. I am now clearer and stronger and I do not need the approval of others to validate them.”

‘Inner peace as easy as breathing.William Bloom has an encyclopedic knowledge of meditation.’ The Independent

M AY 7/ 8

The Sword and Chalice – How to Work with Subtle Energies, Spirits and Angels for Healing and Transformation

Taken in sequence, these workshops form a coherent course, but each weekend stands on its own. CPD certification given.

The universe is made of energy. So are you. It makes sense, knowing how to manage it. This the essence of healing, shamanic and priestly work. Over the weekend you will learn the core techniques for effective energy work. • How to select and connect with particular vibrations, atmospheres and archetypes - and then guide them appropriately. • How to make a talisman to support personal change. • How to walk through all aspects of your life, work and home, centred and connected to good energy. • Cooperation with angels and nature spirits. This kind of energy work is profoundly stimulating, developmental and healing. “I found your workshop so practical, down to earth and enjoyable. I feel empowered and liberated.” “I really appreciate the clarity and intelligence and unpretentiousness... It was also a nice bunch of people.”

CERTIFICATE IN HOLISTIC SPIRITUALITY AND SPIRITUAL COMPANIONSHIP These five workshops are also the gateway to five follow-up weekends in a small group, leading to the Certificate in Spiritual Companionship. WILLIAM BLOOM is one of the UK’s most experienced educators, authors and healers in the field of holistic development. His work has helped 1000s of people. His many books include The Endorphin Effect and Soulution: The Holistic Manifesto. He is known for his good humour, congruence and openness.

Gives you the power to change the atmosphere around you so that you can deliver your best. Daily Mail

Venue St Mary’s Hall, Glastonbury. 10am-5pm each day. B&B list available • Price Each weekend costs £135; £70 for claimants and full-time students • Discounts 10% for 2 workshops. 15% for 3 workshops. 20% for four workshops. 25% for 5 workshops. Bring a friend. • Booking Online, by phone, by mail. • Cheques made out to ‘Holistic Partnerships’. Holistic Partnerships, PO Box 2809, Glastonbury BA6 8XQ. • Phone: 0845 3452102 (local rate), 01372 272400. Email: welcome@williambloom.com For more detailed information, longer blurbs and booking:

www.williambloom.com

The Spark

the spark Issue 63 winter edition welcome

We hope this issue gets your inner fire roaring, as you hunker down for the winter months and plan next year’s adventures and journeys. Check out our new Doing It Yourself section on page 23, as we’d really love your input into this for future issues. Congratulations to our cartoonist Kate Evans on her baby daughter Zeppy, and to our former designer Will on the birth of Oscar. We wish Vicki well as she goes on maternity leave in January. (Contact our stand-in editor Bill Heaney on editor@thespark.co.uk in the meantime). See you all in the Spring! Love, The Spark team…

the team

ignite

three months of life worth living

ignite events

out

classes, events, meets, retreats

craft something lovely this season

12 out!

q&a

Sheila Chandra day-long creative courses for winter days

planet saving the green belt

social change 18 community radio, rural voices (1.) Ann Sheldon, advertising manager (2.) Darryl Bullock, publisher (3.) Vicki West, editor (4.) Beccy Golding, production manager (5.) Andy Ballard, ad designer (6.) Naomi Ross, finance worker, Tilly Black (proof reading), Jo Halladey (photography) Contributors: Fiona McClymont, Melanie West, Kate Evans, Jo Middleton, Gail Francombe, James Murray-White, James Hairsnape, Will Hinchliffe, Will Simpson, Kirsty Cottier Intern: Alex Cater The Spark was created by John Dawson

86 Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5BB

Tel: 0117 914 34 34 www.thespark.co.uk

food

community shops, food pioneers

changemaker

doing it yourself

Magda Conway

homegrown delights

Tuesday to Thursday 10am - 5pm

family

playing out initiatives, babywearing

mind/body/spirit

green goodies, ethical products

spark listings 26

mbs

family

nurture your loved one this winter

sling wearing, street playing

A-Z directory of complementary therapists, eco-services and more

letters & comps 48 win! clothes, books, workshops

rear view

Please go to the inside back page for our affordable ad rates.

Kate Evans on a nappy-free life

changemaker 50

the small print

Advertisers are advised that all copy is their sole responsibility under the Trade Protection Act. All adverts must comply with the British Code of Advertising Practice. We reserve the right to refuse, amend, withdraw or otherwise deal with advertisements submitted to us at our absolute discretion and without explanation • Blue Sax Publishing Ltd can accept no liability for any loss or damage resulting from omission or inaccuracies relating to telephone numbers, wording, spacing or positioning or other material regardless of how caused • We reserve the right to vary print run by 1000 up or down• Blue Sax Publishing Ltd, who publish The Spark, cannot take any responsibility for the quality of an advertiser’s service or advertiser’s conduct. In choosing an advertiser you may wish to consult the appropriate professional bodies • The Spark title can only be used under current licence from Blue Sax Publishing Ltd • Intellectual copyright remains with the publishers of The Spark - Blue Sax Publishing Ltd© All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without permission of the publishers.

make it, build it, bake it, brew it

marketplace

what we do

our ads

doing it yourself

buddhist centres, treats for couples

(ad enquiries) sales@thespark.co.uk (ad text or alterations) ads@thespark.co.uk (editorial) editor@thespark.co.uk

The UK’s biggest free independent ethical quarterly, The Spark reaches 99,000 readers in Cheltenham, Gloucester, Stroud, Taunton, Glastonbury, Swindon, Bath and Bristol. Our editorial is independent so no advertorials for us. We report on local solutions and people making a difference to their lives and their communities, while our adverts cover a range of ideas to help make the world a better place. We’re looking for new freelance writers (green issues and social change) so get in touch and share your enthusiasm/expertise.

Magda Conway

food

q&a

meet the chicken whisperer

Sheila Chandra

booking form 51 buy an ad to reach 100,000 people

4 ignite December compiled by Alex Cater

Get involved!

breadhead The Inbetween Time Festival

in sickness & in health

crisis? what crisis? Not-for-profit

returns to various venues, sites and unusual locations around Bristol Dec 1-Feb 6. Opening with five days of theatre, sculpture, installations, concerts & takeovers, Inbetween Time features work from some of the most innovative artists around. www.inbetweentime.co.uk

Started in 1988 World AIDS Day Dec 1 is about raising money, increasing awareness, fighting prejudice and improving education. The theme for this year, Universal Access and Human Rights, is a timely reminder that HIV/AIDS has not gone away. www.worldaidsday.org

Christmas spirit Shop for

wick-ed The lights go out for a Somerset village chant and be free Fancy an uplifting

alternative gifts and enjoy music, food & drink at the CREATE Centre’s Festive Fair Dec 3-4. Whether local or Fairtrade, organic or recycled you’ll find plenty of unique presents from producers who continue the seasons’ ethos all year round www.bit.ly/8Zwg3l

Dec 3-4. During ‘Dunster by Candlelight’ shops, lit only by candles, will be open late, and festivities include a lantern procession, medieval street performers, carol singers & morris dancers. The weekend raises funds for St Margaret’s Hospice. www.dunsterbycandlelight.co.uk

righting wrongs On the

anniversary of the Declaration of Human Rights Dec 10, people across the globe mark their support of its principles by celebrating Human Rights Day, raising awareness of the injustices and celebrating the foundations upon which peace and justice are laid. www.ohchr.org

group the Gaia Theatre Collective bring their play Tipping Point, a story of love and ecological crisis, to Hamilton House, Bristol Dec 1-11. On Dec 7 there’s a special ‘pay what you can’ performance for those on low incomes (just turn up). www.gaiatheatre.org

day’s singing before the seasonal madness kicks in? Why not join the Harmonic Temple workshop in Southville, Bristol Dec 4? A great opportunity to learn how to sing four-part harmony chants using mantras & sayings from different religions. www.nickomoandrasullah.com

dead good

Angels and Mourning Today is the subject of a talk at the historic Arnos Vale cemetery in Bristol Dec 15, 7-8.30pm. The discussion is led by Tony Walter, Professor of Death Studies at the University of Bath, and will be looking at items of popular culture to examine modern attitudes towards death and dying. £7 (£5 concs). www.arnosvale.org.uk/index.php/eventsandactivities

forest on film Capture the Light

Dec 9 & 16 at Westonbirt Aboretum, will see David Noton, photographer for the BBC’s Lonely Planet, provide advice on capturing the perfect shot around the estate’s illuminated woodland trails, and Westonbirt’s world renowned tree collection promises to be the perfect backdrop for the evening’s activities. Tickets £18 (advanced) or £20 on the night. Don’t forget it’s also the season for Westonbirt’s annual illuminated trail and you can even pick up your sustainable Christmas tree after enjoying a stroll in the woods! www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt

almanac

Full moons: December 21 (sunrise 8.11am; sunset 4.05pm), January 19 (sunrise 8.03am; sunset 4.39pm) and February 18 (sunrise 7.15am; sunset 5.32pm). Spark 64 published February 28 .

Carfree Bristol! Do you live without a car in Bristol or would you like to? Carfree Bristol meets monthly for a few drinks, to share experiences, and to find ways to make life better for carfree living in Bristol. Meet third Wednesday of every month from 7pm-10pm, at the Cornubia pub (upstairs), 142 Temple Street, Bristol. Email info@carfree.org.uk, search Carfree UK on Facebook

Fed up of congestion, pollution and shoddy public transport in Bristol? Bristol Freebus is a revolutionary yet simple idea: to provide a co-operative, non-profit, FREE public transport service for Bristol, funded by investors, members, and voluntary donations. The scheme needs 500 members by the end of 2010. The idea is to raise £25,000 in pledged funds before the service can be launched for six months in April 2011, although a trial run with just 3 buses will happen for just one week in December. This must be raised through a combination of memberships, donations and non-statutory funding. Members will pay a small donation to ride the bus but those who can’t pay, don’t pay. The initial route will run on an express loop between Temple Meads, Broadmead and the City Centre. The FreeBus service will then expand with its membership. Their fleet of customised minibuses will be the greenest in the city and will offer disabled access and bicycle carriage. www.freebus.org.uk

Inspired by campaign groups like Avaaz, 38 degrees is an online campaign movement which acts at critical moments to put pressure on political leaders when human rights, environmental degradation or social justice is at stake. In nature, 38 degrees is the tipping point at which an avalanche begins: the imagery representing what can happen when people act together and become “an avalanche for change.” A recent success story was the campaign for 27-year old Iranian actress and lesbian activist Kiana Firouz who faced deportation back to Iran, where she would have been at risk of torture and death as a result of her sexuality. 1,942 people wrote to Home Secretary Theresa May in protest, and as a result, Kiana was granted asylum. http://38degrees.org.uk

Bristol Animal Rights Collective (BARC) holds regular protests and information stalls around Bristol and supports national campaigns. They are dedicated to vegan outreach, arrange monthly free vegan food stalls and have recently had their second annual free vegan food fair in Bristol city centre. They meet every other Wednesday at Kebele, 14 Robertson Road, Easton, Bristol. Call 07794891226 or email barc@hotmail co.uk to find out more. www.bristolanimalrights.org.uk

yule love it The Midwinter Crafts

Fair at Embercombe in Higher Aston, near Exeter, Dec 19, is full of traditional, handmade and seasonal jollity. Peruse beautiful natural wreaths, decorations and gifts or enjoy hot seasonal refreshments and watch live music, a traditional Mummers play and shadow puppets. www.embercombe.co.uk Birthdays, anniversaries etc: December 8 marks the 30th anniversary of the assassination of John Lennon; let’s all sing Happy Birthday to Nostradamus, who would have been 507 on December 14; December 20 is the feast day of Saint Ursicinus of Saint-Ursanne, who you pray to if

create a new you

Need to recharge your batteries after Christmas excesses? Try Hawkwood’s Winter Retreat Dec 29-Jan 1, four creative days inspired by the teachings of A Course in Miracles, the break includes workshops in dancing & movement, artistic expression and ritual, inviting you to open up to a new you in 2011. www.hawkwoodcollege.co.uk you have a stiff neck; January 18 is the anniversary of the birth of A A Milne and also marks the US holiday Martin Luther King Day; the inventor of the flushing water closet, Thomas Crapper, pulled his last chain 101 years ago on January 27. February 1 would have been the 80th birthday

Women Speak Out, is a women-only event being held on December 18 from 12-6pm, at The Smiling Chair Library, 40 Stokes Croft, Bristol. There will be a self-defence skill-share, discussions, talks, workshops and information. Food will be provided. Call 07831 377549 or email bristolwomenspeakout@gmx.com to confirm a place.

of Boris Yeltsin, the first President of the Russian Federation. February 2 is both Candlemas (the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple) and Groundhog Day; Film directors Mike Leigh and Robert Altman share the same birthday February 20 - Bob would have been 86 and Mike will be 68.

WINTER WARMER

3 couRsEs

FoR £15 oN TuEsDAY WEDNEsDAY ThuRsDAY AND FRIDAY EVENINGs

atfrom café Only 40 mins Bristol. Maitreya: Courses all year round. . . . “ The winter menu

THE ENCHANTMENT of STORY : Winter Gathering to Find Hidden Treasures 10-12 December 2010 with John & Caitlin Matthews, with Anne Lister (singer/songwriter)

NEW YEAR RETREAT: Creating an Experience of Inspiration 29 Dec 2010 -1 Jan 2011 Carolina Corada, Alice & Rod Friend, and A Course in Miracles

Darryl Bullock - The Spark Magazine. November 2010

Telephone: 0117 9510100

CO-CREATING in MOMENTOUS TIMES: A Transforum 25-27 March 2011 Special Wrekin Trust event with Gill Edwards, Jude Currivan & others

FoR Full MENus VIsIT ouR WEbsITE

www.cafemaitreya.co.uk

Creativity as Gateway to Healing, Future Self Now, Creative Music Making, Spiritual Laws of Prosperity, Simple Bookmaking, Dramatherapy, The Rosen Method, Your Life, Your Story VALID UNTIL 30.03.11



www.hawkwoodcollege.co.uk St Nics 1/4 pg ad Spark 182x132:Layout 1 16/11/2010 10:28 Page 1

HAWKWOOD WINTER COURSES FOR YOU! Enchantment of Story 10-12 Dec NEW YEAR RETREAT 29 Dec– 1 Jan Creativity as Gateway to Healing Jan, Mar, Apr, June, Sept, Oct, Dec Future Self Now 29 Jan

Simple Bookmaking 5 March Dramatherapy Day 6 March The Rosen Method 11-13 March Your Life, Your Story 11-13 March

Warm welcome guaranteed.

Hawkwood College, Painswick |Old Road, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 7QW capturing the season with fantastic us fortaste. info 01453 flavours andPhone terrific ” 759034 or check out our website…..

SPARK ISSUE 63 Nov 2010—Feb 2011 1/8 PAGE AND IGNITE BOX First of 4 issues

40 mins from Bristol near Stroud

01453-759034

www.hawkwoodcollege.co.uk

From the 27th November until Christmas Eve, you can enjoy our specially extended opening hours Monday to Saturday 9am – 6pm Sunday 11am – 5pm

www.bristol.gov.uk/markets

Café Maitreya - Award Winning Restaurant 89 Saint Marks Road, Easton, Bristol BS5 6HY

6 ignite january Get involved!

South American way John

Blashford-Snell, one of the world’s most seasoned explorers, has lead over 70 expeditions around the globe. On Jan 12 at Bristol University you can hear him talk about how he tested Thor Heyerdahl’s theories, using traditional reed boats to prove ancient people could voyage around South America. http://bit.ly/djTsmF

glass half full Bristol City

Museum’s series of Winter Lectures boasts an impressive line-up of speakers, including antiques expert Eric Knowles, who discusses the life and work of master glass maker Rene Lalique on January 13. Lectures are free, book in advance on 0117 922 3571 or events@bristol.gov.uk

getting horny The Unicorn Centre

in the village of Ilton, near Ilminster, Somerset, offers you the unusual opportunity to ‘connect with your personal unicorn’ through meditation and visualisation. Run by Margaret Merrison, a principle teacher with the Diana Cooper School, the next Unicorn Day is on Jan 15 www.unicorncentre.co.uk

Taunton Vegans and Veggies are the only Vegan group in Taunton. They say: “If you see us about, come and say hello, we don’t bite and we certainly won’t preach. We’re simply about showing you all that healthy, cruelty-free food need not be a pile of leaves, but can be a vast array of mouth-watering goodness! We have a monthly meeting at Mambo’s at 7pm on the second Wednesday of each month. Pop along, grab a pint and join in! We’re happy to help with any questions you might have. Want to say hello? Drop us a line via the contact page (under FAQs) on the website or look us up on Facebook. www.tauntonveg.moonfruit.com Search ‘Taunton Vegans’ on Facebook

close at hand The Session, taking place in Gloucester January 15-16, is the UK’s only

close-up magic convention, covering every aspect from performance and sleight of hand to marketing. The Session attracts the world’s best close-up magicians, who come to perform in front of their peers as well as to teach their magic to a small (just 110 people) but appreciative audience. It’s an absolutely unique opportunity to learn the best close-up magic from the very best magicians, including comedian, magician and runaway hit from last year’s Session Danny Buckler. www.sessionconvention.com

the natural path

renowned homoeopath and naturapath Alize Timmerman comes to the School of Homeopathy in Stroud January 15-16 to host the Gifts of the Mother seminar, offering a deeper understanding of how to treat chronic diseases with mineral, plant and animal remedies. 01453 765956

Bristol Crisis Service for Women (BCSW) is a national charity set up by women, for women and girls who self-injure. Support is offered to people through a helpline or a Text and Email Support Service (TESS). The charity has also been involved in joint research ventures investigating self-injury specifically with people who have a learning disability and was recently awarded the prestigious ‘Queens Award for Voluntary Service’. The charity is in desperate need of financial help to continue their work. If you would like to offer your support and make a donation the details are below. www.justgiving.com/bcsw/donate or call BSCW on 0117 927 9600. www.selfinjurysupport.org.uk

Cafe Kino at the bottom of Nine Tree Hill in Bristol is moving and they need a little help from their friends. If you have any free time and can help Cafe Kino transform itself please email amylouspencer@hotmail.com

Shelter bling! Shelter’s ‘Housebling’ website lets you ‘bling up’ a location of your choice (using Google street view) and send an environmentally friendly e-card to everyone on your Christmas card list. ‘Housebling’ is free for anyone to use but if you’re feeling generous, you can give Shelter a donation at the same time. To ‘bling’ simply log

ship shape

Purton in Gloucestershire has the biggest ship’s graveyard on mainland Britain, with the wrecks of schooners and wartime boats sinking into the bank near the mouth of the Severn. The Friends of Purton take tours investigating the site, and you can join them Jan 16. www.friendsofpurton.org.uk

wild-cider town Avon Wildlife Trust’s ranger danger Carry out some Wild Wassail at Willsbridge Mill, Jan 16, is an annual event marking the tradition of Wassailing. Apple trees are presented with cider from the previous year to bring a good harvest and scare away evil spirits, and there will be singing, dancing, and the crowning of the Wassail Queen and Holly Boy. www.avonwildlifetrust.org.uk

practical conservation work under the expert guidance of an Exmoor National Park Ranger Jan 16. It’s free, all tools and instruction provided. Wear old clothes, sturdy shoes and bring a packed lunch. Under 18s must be accompanied. www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk, tel 01398 323665

The blinged up spark office

let the train take the strain Join the volunteers of the West Somerset

Mineral Railway on a free guided tour Jan 29, which offers a fascinating insight into one of the county’s finest feats of Victorian engineering. This three-hour walk takes in parts of the Mineral Railway – one of Exmoor’s most important and remarkable industrial archaeological features – still visible in the scenic Brendon Hills. Booking is essential (numbers are very limited), and sturdy walking boots and raincoats necessary. www.westsomersetmineralrailway.org.uk, 01398 323841

did you know? Solstice, which this winter takes place on December 21, does not apply to the whole day but rather to the brief moment during which the Sun’s position in the sky reaches its northernmost or

southernmost extremes. The name of this twice-yearly astronomical event comes from the Latin word ‘sol’ (sun) and the suffix ‘stitium’ (stoppage), because at the solstices the Sun appears to stand still for a time as its path comes to a halt before reversing direction. Marking the shortest day and longest night, the winter solstice occurs exactly

tell tales

Part of National Storytelling Week, Bristol’s very own Storytelling Festival runs from Jan 29-Feb 6. Held across various venues throughout the city, the festival features many different storytellers telling old folk tales, horror stories and humorous yarns. www.bristolstoryfest.co.uk when the Earth’s axial tilt is farthest away from the sun. Depending on the shift of the calendar, the winter solstice occurs on December 21 or 22 each year in the Northern Hemisphere ( June 20 or 21 in the Southern Hemisphere). Many cultures around the world hold holidays, festivals,

onto www.housebling.org.uk, enter your chosen postcode and begin your transformation! Louise Parkes, director of fundraising at Shelter, said: “Housebling is a fun way to send some seasonal cheer to friends and family all over the world. But behind the fun is a serious message. Every two minutes someone in this country faces the trauma of losing their home.” Check out Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s new FishFight campaign at www.fishfight.net

gatherings, rituals or other celebrations around the solstice, an important period signifying rebirth and renewal. Zoroastrians believe that Yalda – the longest night of the year – saw the birth of Mithra, Persian god of light and truth, born from a virgin mother.

SHAMANKA SCHOOL OF WOMEN’S SHAMANISM

THE TRAINING IN HEALING & THE SHAMANIC ARTS Inspirational first year heals our male and female archetypes. Power Animals, Divination and Oracle work, Shamanic Extraction - Past Life - Soul Retrieval, awakens perceptive and subtle sensing. Includes Munay Ki Foundation Inka Rites.’ Dates: Ist of 4 weekends begins 24th Feb. 2011

LUMINOUS WARRIOR Advanced - 2nd Year This training takes the participant to a profound level of the 'seen' and unseen realms, through some ancient practises from the Mayan and Inka shamans. Advanced extraction and Munai-Ki rites. Dates: Ist of 4 weekends begins 12th Feb. 2011

THE FEATHERED SERPENT Sacred Sexuality ‘Resolving primal fears, orgasmic energy will be lifted to another level. We shed our skins finding the gifts of stillness, awareness and potency. Experience the transcendent dynamic of Illumination as we awaken the Rainbow Feathered Serpent’ Dates: 10th - 11th Dec.2010

Whether looking for a new direction, or to take your first step towards a more sustainable future, Schumacher College has delivered transformational courses that skill and inspire people for 20 years.

Want to make a positive change?

INKA ENERGY WISDOM Advanced teachings & techniques for exisiting Mesa Carriers - designing despachos - using mesas for soul retrieval, hucha michuay - working with the seques. Contacting the ancestral teachers. Dates: 22nd - 23rd Jan. 2011

Ecological Facilitation: A gritty and creative approach to leadership

THE MAGICAL WOMAN ‘A profound healing of the deep feminine as we awaken the five treasures of the Empowered Magical Woman.’

k Q-Page Oct-10.ppp V Broughton stellations Work Trainings Ltd October 2010 5 PM

27 February – 5 March, 2011

Join us for this practical and evocative course that will enable you to act with a greater ecological awareness, and to better facilitate and lead change in others. Contact Shamanka in Dorset on tel: 01963 23468 info@shamanka.com Please visit our website for more course details or Tel: +44 (0)1803 865 934

WWW.SHAMANKA.COM

Schumacher College is part of The Dartington Hall Trust, a registered charity.

Systemic Constellations UK

www.schumachercollege.org.uk

Journey into Life: Begins March 2011 A Year Group in Shapeshift 5 Rhythms® Dance with Dawn Morgan

Movements of The Integrating Soul

We will work with the 5 Rhythms, incorporating somatic movement exercises, rituals and sacred parties. The 5 Rhythms are a beautiful dancing map of the movement of energy; both resourcing and catalytic. This course will be an oasis of nourishment and growth in your life, helping to bring alignment to your purpose and clarify your place in the web of life. Together we create a dancing community that holds and supports you as you change through the magic of this transformational practice. There will be a strong focus on our global inter connectedness facilitated by Joanna Macey’s work and the ‘Be the Change/Awakening the Dreamer Symposium’. Make space for nourishment, growth and connection. Dance, move, enjoy, transform and deepen your experience and love of life. Join us for the ‘Journey into Life’ 2011!

with Vivian Broughton

Dawn has been working with Movement for 20 years, she is trained to teach both levels of Gabrielle Roth’s 5 Rhythms, has trained to work with sexuality and fertility, has a BSc in Psychology and is currently studying for an MA in Dance and Somatic Education, she is a trained facilitator of the ‘Be the Change, Awakening the Dreamer Symposiums.’

~ The integrating soul is that part that reaches for wholeness and clarity, attempting always to heal trauma, sometimes from traumatic events that did not happen to us personally, but to our parents, grandparents or even great-grandparents. ~ Traumatic events leave an unconscious, unresolved legacy that is passed from generation to

Please note the NEW DATES March ▪ 18th-20th ▪ Body May ▪ 6th-8th ▪ Heart July▪ 13th-17th ▪ Mind September ▪ 16th-18th ▪ Spirit November ▪ 18th-20th ▪ Soul

generation through the bonded relationships within the family system. It is known now that emotional trauma can alter the DNA... a person’s genetic inheritance. ~ Since these unresolved feelings are unconscious and entangle us with other members of the family, the task is to make this conscious so the person can see clearly what is theirs and what has been taken on from past generations in the system. ~ The constellations process provides a way of seeing clearly the trauma entanglements with the

Additional Event January ▪ 14th-16th ▪ Start the Year: Fully catered and residential £275 (or £250 by December 20th)

Total price, for 5 modules, fully catered and residential: £1,335. Early bird: £1,225 booked by January 1st. Application (by February 1st 2011 with post dated cheques): £450 for February 20th, May 1st for £450 and September 1st £435. Suitable for those collecting hours or experience for movement teacher trainings.

system. When this is seen, felt and understood the person can distinguish between what is theirs and what isn’t, and integrate what has been lost to them.

15 January - £60 26/27 February - £110 19 March - £60 9/10 April - £110 7 May - £60 All in Bristol Cheques to V Broughton to address below

hapeshift ance

Private constellations sessions are also possible. Please contact me.

P O Box 2932, BRISTOL, BS6 9FN www.vivianbroughton.co.uk & www.constellationswork.co.uk tel: 0117 923 2797 - email: info@constellationswork.co.uk

w w w. s h a p e s h i f t . c o . u k dawn@shapeshift.co.uk 01453750608

8 ignite february Get involved!

acting up

SISH, a support group for women with self-harm issues, is running a series of workshops aimed at promoting good mental health for all. Drop into their drama workshop at MIND in Old Market, Bristol Feb 5. email sishbristol@yahoo.co.uk

planet planning

nice folk Get ready for a hoedown at

A World in Waiting at Colston Hall Feb 10 invites you to discuss positive changes for Bristol’s future with international social justice organisations and MEPs charged with delivering The Big Society and Welfare Reform. www.pierian-centre.com

Cheltenham’s annual Folk Festival Feb 11-13, where acts old and new, including headliners Jon Boden, Nancy Kerr and James Fagan will be performing and there will be a range of workshops and demonstrations to join in.

www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

fancy a bite? Some of the best local artisan food producers will be showing their

spud u like

The 6th Somerset Potato Day takes place at Pylle Church Hall, near Shepton Mallet Feb 13 where you’ll be able to choose from more than 100 varieties of seed potatoes, heritage seeds & items for the garden or take your surplus seeds to swap for others. Admission free. www.potato-days.net

wares and offering potential customers a nibble of their goodies at a special Valentine’s Day-themed Love Food Festival, held in and around Bocabar at the Paintworks, Bath Road, Bristol Feb 13. Expect a whole load of local, ethical and organic crafts, entertainment, hot food, beer and cider, bedding plants and herbs as well as chance to do all of your ethical grocery shopping. As always, entry is free and kids are especially welcome. www.lovefoodfestival.com

The groups behind the Free Shop and the Emporium on Bristol’s Stokes Croft are facing eviction from the buildings’ absent landlords in Hong Kong. The buildings have been occupied for 2 years, and transformed from derelict empty eyesores to useful local resources. New shop fronts have been built from scratch, the collapsing floors, the hole-ridden roofs, the frontage and structure of both buildings has been rebuilt. For two years, The Emporium has been a not-for-profit events space, where grass roots projects or individuals can hold exhibitions, film night, discussion group or skill-shares free of charge. The Free Shop has recycled a massive amount of clothing, books and household goods to new homes. Now the buildings’ owners have begun eviction proceedings in the County Court. Proceedings have now been adjourned to a further hearing in December. The groups involved will be garnering support for their cause in the run-up to the court hearing and trying to reach an agreement with the owners that will allow the Free Shop and The Emporium to continue. Free Shop is open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 2-5pm Check www.emporium37.wordpress.com to find out what’s going on at the Emporium

This November and December, diners visiting restaurants across Bath, Bristol, Taunton and Exeter will once again be asked to add £1 to their bill, as part of StreetSmart’s campaign to help the UK’s homeless. StreetSmart operates as an umbrella charity providing funding to 95 homelessness charities across 18 cities. www.streetsmart.org.uk

sow and so

Frome’s Seed Swap & Potato Day takes place on Feb 20 at the Cheese and Grain, 10am-2pm. Vegetable seeds are especially welcome, although herbs, flowers and ornamental seeds are all good to bring too. Cordelia 01373 462842 or Gladys 01373 472245 or email info@vallisveg.co.uk

p-p-p-pick up Inspired by The Penguin dreamtime The Way of the Dream, at

Cafe Orchestra, the late Simon Jeff’s son, Arthur, continues the tradition with Penguin Cafe. Brian Eno describes them as “eccentric, charming, surprising, seductive, warm and unforgettable.” Supported by the Portico Quartet, they play Bristol’s Colston Hall Feb 15. www.colstonhall.org

the Pierian Centre, Bristol, Feb 18-20 is a three-day course offering a unique chance to see the 20 short films on dreams by Marie-Louise von Franz, founder of the CG Jung Institute. Ideally suited to anyone interested in, or giving/receiving psychotherapy. Call 01747 870070, email m@msteer.co.uk

Celebrate 15 years of Friends of Bristol Suburban Railways (FOBSR) at the Cube cinema, Bristol, on Monday Dec 6, 8pm. Join them for films, songs, poems, viral videos and clips of their favourite talks, celebrating the survival of the local railways in the face of dominant car culture! £3/£4 but no-one turned away for lack of funds! www.fosbr.org.uk

on the web www.steadystate.org An alternative to relentless economic growth at any cost www.lowflyzone.org Take the pledge not to fly for 12 months

loud and proud

Celebrated each year, Fairtrade Fortnight Feb 23-Mar 3 is the perfect time for shoppers to show their support for ethical trading and for farming communities in some of the world’s poorest countries. There are always plenty of ways to get involved, whether you want to set up your own event, attend one, join in a record-breaking bunting-making attempt or just flaunt the fairtrade products in your lunchbox. www.fairtrade.org.uk

www.hardrainproject.com Images from around the world set to Bob Dylan’s prophetic song

nowt taken out Bath Literature

Festival 2011 is a unique space where writers and readers can meet and exchange ideas. The festival, packed with great authors and entertainment, launches with a day of free events on February 25 and runs for ten days. www.bathfestivals.org.uk

www.newwe.info Austrian documentary film-maker Stefan Wolf visits a number of eco-communities around Europe

ignite: more dates than an organic Christmas cake 8

Persephone College UK Unfolding human potential “All human

challenges are opportunities for spiritual development”

Psychophonetics is a new form of holistic counselling, coaching and psychotherapy. It is a unique method of enhancing self-awareness and renewing the whole human being - body, life energy, soul and spirit.

“Psychophonetics will clearly become a major new therapeutic discipline” Dr Rosy Daniel Bsc. MBBCh. Medical Director, Health Creation, Bath

For details of Talks, Workshops, Master Classes and the Training course (new intake starting 17th March 2011) go to the website below or contact:

uk@psychophonetics.com tel: 07920 100794

www.psychophonetics.co.uk

With an excellent reputation, the Bristol School of Holistic Therapies offer the only AC / IFR / IIHM accredited training in Bristol.

Aromatherapy and Reflexology Professional Diploma Courses Indian Head Massage Certificate Courses Bach Flower Remedies, CPD and Introductory Courses Our approach to training is holistic throughout. All tutors are experienced practitioners with full teaching qualifications. Classes are small, ensuring plenty of one to one tuition and time for hands on practice. We have specialist tutors for different subjects, ensuring you get the most up-to-date knowledge available. The Aromatherapy Diploma and the Reflexology Diploma courses provide in-depth tuition of their individual therapies and include the IEB certificate in Anatomy, and Physiology. Also, to ensure the best start to a new career as a therapist, they include modules in business studies, client practice management and nutrition. Courses start in March. The Certificate in Traditional Indian Head massage includes Indian head massage practice and theory, anatomy & physiology, study of chakras and clinical practice. Professional accreditation is by the Institute of Indian Head Massage. Courses run September, January and May. Bach Flower Remedies courses are at three levels. Level 1 is the introduction level, level 2: advanced, and level three is for those who wish to practice professionally. Courses accredited by the Bach International Education Programme. Level 1 course will run in Spring 2011. Anatomy and Physiology gives in-depth training required by insurance companies and professional bodies for anyone training or planning to train in the area of complementary therapies. Certificate awarded by the International Examination Board. September introductory courses: Introduction to Aromatherapy will allow you to get the most out of using essential oils for your family and friends, and around your home. Introduction to Massage will show you how to ease muscle tensions aches and pains by giving a relaxing back massage and also give a rejuvenating facial massage. Two one day courses for beginners. Both courses are over one weekend and can be taken individually or together. * No previous experience is required for any of the above courses. Professional Development Courses starting this year include, ‘Advanced Massage Techniques’ and ‘Crystals and Aromatherapy’.

More information on our courses can be found on our website: www.bristolschoolofholistictherapies.co.uk For full details, you can request a copy of our comprehensive prospectus by emailing: info@bristolschoolofholistictherapies.co.uk phoning:

0870 889 0350 or writing to:

The Bristol School of Holistic Therapies, Kings House, 14 Orchard Street, Bristol BS1 5EH

regular events Mondays

seasonal

Tuesdays

Create Festive Fair –Friday 3 Dec 4-9, Saturday 4 Dec 11-4

Vinyasa Flow Yoga. All welcome, Clifton. Individual tuition available in Vinyasa Flow and Restorative Yoga. T: 0781 359 1919 www.susietherapies.co.uk

For the best in eco-gift buying www.createbristol.org Smeaton Road, Bristol BS1 6XN

Tuesdays

Wednesdays Join Glastonbury Positive Living Group for inspirational talks followed by the opportunity to socialise with like-minded people. Doors open 7.00pm. Refreshments included. £5 Ffi: Liz 01458 833128 www.shiny-happy-people.co.uk Wednesdays Bristol Feral Choir - group vocal improvisation and performances. Fun, feral and friendly with clearly structured led classes. Drop in any Weds in term time or email with questions. Cost £5. Fantastic location at Bristol Greenhouse Studio, 292 Ashley Down Rd. See listing in Voice section. www.bristolferalchoir.org.uk email bristolferalchoir@gmail.com call 07837 599239 or find us on Facebook. Wednesdays The Bristol Zen Centre. 7.15pm-9pm, Fulcrum House, 3 Grove Road, BS6 6UJ. 0117 9632505 info@wednesdayzenmeeting.org.uk Wednesdays South Of The River Community Choir at Withywood Centre. Everyone welcome. 01275 851309 welshl@hotmail.co.uk Sat & every 2nd Wed Your Community Clinic – Making therapies affordable! Open to All. Low Cost Treatments for those on low income. Therapies to suit everyone including the pregnant/ elderly. Massage - Deep tissue,Hot Stone, Indian Head, Shiatsu, Thai. Homeopathy, Hopi Candling, Reflexology, Reiki (shares/courses). Ffi Teresa 0798 224 3804 (Wednesdays), Saturdays 0780 973 6187. Venues, dates etc: www.yourcommunityclinic.com

december Friday 3 - Saturday 4 December

Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga at St. Marys Hall, Glastonbury. 6.15 to 7.15 beginners, 7.15 to 9pm intermediate. Ffi contact Jane Piddington 01458 445077 www.ashtangavinyasayoga.co.uk

The Abundance Group. 10–12.30pm, weekly drop-in. Relaxation Centre, Bristol, Only £5. First session free, starts January 11th. Looking at how we manifest in our lives. Using law of attraction principles, meditation, visulization, sharing, games, art, music, movement, writing, role play, EFT, Ho’oponopono. Contact Tina 07951 246 890, www.transformyourlifenow.co.uk

three months of essential events. to place your ad call 0117 914 3434 • 90p a word

Dramatherapy 2011 Creating pathways to healing & change

Weekly ‘Acting 4 Real’ Dramatherapy Group

- Bristol starts January 12th A closed group of 8 evenings for self healing and change

3 Day Intensive

- Bath - January 28th-30th

10-5pm each day An in depth practical exploration of methods and application Can be counted as CPD hours

Tuesday 21 December

WINTER WONDERSONG

10 ignite

Final deadline for The Spark Spring issue 64. Get an ad and reach our many, many, lovely readers (that includes you!). Don’t forget listings ads also go online for free! 0117 914 34 34 sales@thespark.co.uk solstice celebration hosted by Bristol Feral Choir Arts House Cafe, Stokes Croft, Bristol 8pm Enjoy some light on the longest night • singalong folk carols • post-consumer ditties • films • live acts of wierd wintry wonder Mulled wine, mince pies and magic on tap Donations to Medical Aid for Palestinians Want to take part? bristolferalchoir@gmail.com or 07837 599239 www.bristolferalchoir.org.uk www.theartshouse.org

january

Saturday 4 December Good Mental Health Workshop: Reiki with Teresa Nash. Learn to work with Reiki on the self, strengthen one’s inner energy and begin a personal healing process. 10.30–1pm. £4/£2. Held at Bristol Mind, 35 Old Market Street, Bristol. Ffi: email: sishbristol@yahoo.co.uk

Yoga Foundation Course Five weekends in Devon Starting January 2011. Also Teacher Training, Yoga Therapy, Courses, Classes and Retreats. For more information please call

Taster -‘Take One’ 01392 420573 Thursday 16 December THE ENCHANTMENT STORY : Winter Gathering to Find Hidden Treasures March 6th Stroud/Mayof7th or email

The Devon 10-12 December 2010 with John & Caitlin Matthews, with Anne Lister (singer/songwriter) Bristol. 10am-4.30pm info@devonyoga.com School Goyo Music Fashion Show, Practical & fun introduction to models www.devonyoga.com ofYoga NEWofYEAR RETREAT: Creating an Experience of Inspiration and methods Dramatherapy. promoting our new shop. Cabot 29 Contact Dec 2010Rachel -1 Jan on 2011 Carolina Corada, Alice & Rod Friend, A membeR oF The InDepenDenT YogA neTwoRk Circus, 7-9pm. Free and A Course in Miracles

For more info contact Yawo, 01225CO-CREATING 859530 in MOMENTOUS TIMES: A Transforum

tel: 0117 330 2140 rachel@scenario59.freeserve.co.uk Saturday 25-27 March 2011 Special Wrekin Trust event with Gill Edwards, Jude Currivan & others www.dramatherapy.org.uk Member of HPC

8 January

Thursday 16 December

Good Mental Health Workshop: Creativity as Gateway to Healing, Future Self Now, Creative Music Making, Spiritual Laws of Music Workshop with Marcus Prosperity, Simple Bookmaking, Dramatherapy, The Rosen Method, Your Life, Your Story Early Bird deadline for The Spark Campbell. I’s a band! With guitar, Spring issue 64. Yes spring really New Dimensions Contact us for our NEW 2011 BROCHURE. Available now! bass, drums, keyboards and a mike is on it’s way, and you can get a A monthly meeting of like-minded people to available, we will learn elements of Hawkwood College, STROUD GL6 7QW Tel. 01453 759034 hear talks on a wide range of esoteric subjects cheaper ad before this date! each instrument and run through Sunday 12th December 2010 0117 914 34 34 some songs. Bringing your own UNIDENTIFIED sales@thespark.co.uk FLYING OBJECTS (UFO’S) instrument is also an option. It AND CROP CIRCLE FORMATIONS Book and pay online at doesn’t matter if you can or can’t Alan Foster www.thespark.co.uk play - it’s all about trying something Sunday 16th January 2011 ANIMAL HEALING new! 10.30–1pm. £4/£2. Held at Monday 20 -Tues 21 December AND CLAIRVOYANCE Bristol Mind, 35 Old Market Street, Sue and John Geiss Bristol. Sunday 20th February 2011 Ffi: email: CONNECTING TO INNER PEACE sishbristol@yahoo.co.uk John Gloster-Smith



www.hawkwoodcollege.co.uk

Held at: The Friends’ Meeting House, 126 Hampton Road, Redland, Bristol. BS6 6JE Everyone welcome. Refreshments included 3.00pm – 5.00pm Entrance £5.00

WINTER COURSES FOR YOU! Enchantment of Story 10-12 Dec NEW YEAR RETREAT 29 Dec– 1 Jan Creativity as Gateway to Healing Jan, Mar, Apr, June, Sept, Oct, Dec Future Self Now 29 Jan

Simple Bookmaking 5 March Dramatherapy Day 6 March The Rosen Method 11-13 March Your Life, Your Story 11-13 March

Saturday 22 - Sunday 23 January

Exploring Toltec Shamanism The Path with a Heart THE ART OF STALKING Hunting your own Personal Power Weekend workshop with Itzcoatl Papalotzin (Agustín), Mexican Shaman Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd January Plus free talk, on Wed 19th January Bristol contact 07821 414004 or 01666 826976 f.vandelli@yahoo.com or visit www.school-of-life.net/shaman

Thursday 27 - Sunday 30 January

Shamanka School of Women’s Shamanism. The Magical Woman Workshop, is a profound healing of the deep feminine as we reclaim our 5 missing treasures; so we 40 mins Bristol.asCourses all year ro stand in our Only power andfrom beauty Hawkwood College, Painswick |Old Road, magical women. Contact 01963 23468 Phone us for info 01453 759034 o elianaharvey@gmail.com www.shamanka.com Saturday 29 January The Big Shiny Positive Living Event! 10am-6pm Glastonbury Town Hall. Inspirational talks, therapists, practitioners, healers, stalls, cafe and lots more! Admission £3. Ffi: Liz 01458 833128 www.shiny-happy-people.co.uk

Sunday 9 January

Ffi please contact 01225 722963 leasurs@tiscali.co.uk

HAWKWOOD

Thursday 20 January

New Beginners Argentinian Tango Classes - learn with Tango West 6 week course. Class 7-8.30pm + practice till 9pm. Expert Tuition; a great way to keep Fit and Meet new friends; No partner required £48 or early booking discount by 31.12.10 just £40 Venue: Redland Club, Burlington road, Redland, Bristol BS6 6TN (Alternatively try the first class as a Taster for just £8, and if you like it then join up on the night) to book: e-mail michele@tangowest.co.uk or tel 07981 756965; www.tangowest.co.uk

SPARK ISSUE 63 Nov 2010—Feb 2011 1/8 PAGE AND IGNITE BOX First of 4 issues

40 mins from Bristol near Stroud

Tall order?

01453-759034

www.hawkwoodcollege.co.uk

advertising in The Spark gets your message out to 100,000

ethically-minded, green-thinking, planet-conscious people in Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham, Frome, Glastonbury, Gloucester, Stroud, Taunton, Wells, Devon, Cornwall, the Midlands & South Wales. Call Ann on 0117 914 3434 or go to www.thespark.co.uk 10

ignite

three months of essential events. to place your ad call 0117 914 3434 90p a word (80p if booked & paid before Jan 4)

february Saturday 5 February Good Mental Health Workshop: Drama Workshop with Sarah Burns. Discover your playful and spontaneous self using drama in a fun and imaginative way. 10.30– 1pm. £4/£2. Held at Bristol Mind, 35 Old Market Street, Bristol. Ffi: email: sishbristol@yahoo.co.uk Sat 26 - Sun 27 February Don’t want another year like the last? Had enough of poor health, bad relationships, unfulfilling work, ongoing feelings of sadness? This is for you. Join us at Cardiff Novotel for this Heal Your Life workshop to change all that. Can it all change in just 2 days? Yes! Check out the testimonials at www.aplacefortheheart.co.uk Tel: 029 2071 0744 Thursday 24 - Sun 27 February Four Weekends Shamanka School of Womens Shamanism. In the training in Healing and the Shamanic Arts, we spiral to the heart of the women’s mysteries. Personal and spiritual development,soul retrieval, past life, extraction, subtle sensing, ceremonies, Inka Rituals. Contact 01963 23468 elianaharvey@gmail.com www.shamanka.com Monday 28 February Spring into action with the Spring issue of The Spark (geddit?!) - out today! 0117 914 34 34 sales@thespark.co.uk

march

Saturday 5 - Sunday 6 March LingZi - To Develop Energy Forces for Healing with Dr Shen Hongzun, Bristol. LingZi is for anyone interested in heath and energy work, to direct energy for healing. Dr Shen will teach LingZi exercises to create a physical vibration. The LingZi vibration is guided to direct the flow of vital Qi through the body and hands. This focused energy can be used for self-healing or extended as a Qi “ force field” to heal others. LingZi also helps protect therapists from negative side effects, when treating patients. LingZi vibration can be subtle or strongly physical to suit your individual capacity. It clears energetic ‘clutter” to lead to a deep sense of peace and meditative states. Dr Shen Hongxun is the founder of BUQI energy healing and the Taijiwuxigong exercise system. He is also a taiji master and a teaching lama with Daoist and Buddhist lineage. Ffi call Ann on : 0117 3770103 or email: buqibristol@buqi.net www.buqi.net

Saturday 5 March Good Mental Health Workshop: Chanting For Peace with Tim Challice. Come and experience chanting as a way to quiet the mind and open the heart. 10.30–1pm. £4/£2. Held at Bristol Mind, 35 Old Market Street, Bristol. Ffi: email: sishbristol@yahoo.co.uk

tai chi and qigong instructor course realise your potential and help others ﬁnd balance in life

Saturday 12 March

Instructor Course

Conference with Prof. Ursula King: Spirit in Action - connecting people and communities in Bristol and the South West towards more spiritual and ecological ways of living. All welcome. admin@holisticmap.org or 07947 114553. See www.holisticmap.org/about/ events.htm

19th March 2011 Kingsbridge, South Devon This innovative and pioneering 18 month course will help you develop all the skills you need to become an expert teacher and guide. From learning and honing teaching skills to understanding how to project your voice, plan a class, teach safely and with integrity - we provide a comprehensive training for both Tai Chi and Qigong. It starts 19th March 2011 and is held at our beautiful studio in South Devon (free transfer available from Totnes train station). Teachers include Matthew Rochford (author and founder of Tai Chi Nation), Joe Salmon (over 15 years experience) and Mike Potter (Westminster University). The cost is only £1500 and we have a monthly payment plan.

classifieds

Also available: FREE Bristol Open Day 6th February 2011, 11am - 4pm

jobs

The Pierian Centre, Bristol BS2 8SA Drop in anytime, refreshments and healthy snacks available. Workshops on the half hour all day.

Are You A Natural Assistant? Want A Change From The 9 To 5 Workday? Lively disabled woman values: positivity and the simple things in life. Loves: fresh air, trees, gardening, good food, music and alternative lifestyles. Requires facilitated assistance with all aspects of daily life, practical personal support, and mobility on a 24 x 7 basis (but this is Not a care position). No Previous PA experience necessary, however experience of running a home required. Involves all types of driving, a varied work day, adaptability. dependability, and the capacity to be pro-active, focussed and ‘on the go.’ Essential requirements: female, 25 yrs+ with a full clean UK driving licence & one year’s driving experience; with fluent written and spoken English. Also: hardworking, practical, self-motivated, a fast learner; with a high level of physical fitness and stamina. Must be prepared to work over the New Year period. Gross Pay: £7.66/£8.96 per hour. Block shifts: 24 hrs+. Location: Keynsham/ Bristol area. Please text your name and address to request written details and application pack to 0798 481 9469. (This advert complies with Section 7(2b) of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975)

Simply Tai Chi – Finding Fluidity in Life 25th to 27th February 2011

Sharpham House, Totnes, Devon A weekend retreat. From £199. Classes, workshops, DVDs, books, downloads and t-shirts all available on our website.

accommodation offered South West Wales - To Let 3 Bed House and Studio Flat, part of 40 acre smallholding in a woodland valley, North-Carmarthenshire. Workshop and use of woods if required. www.penpynfarch.co.uk Eeva and Andy 01559 384 948 Room for Rent, Bishopston, Bristol. Room in friendly house. Quiet street, parking, near Gloucester Rd, landline, TV, broadband, use of therapy room negotiable. £370 pcm incl. all bills. catriona.mundle@blueyonder.co.uk 0117 924 7163

The Art of Qigong and the Art of Tai Chi Sword 15th to 17th April 2011, 11am - 4pm Sharpham House, Totnes, Devon A weekend retreat. From £199.

The Big Chi – Tai Chi, Qigong, Ancient Wisdom 8th to 11th July 2011 Sharpham House, Totnes, Devon Long weekend retreat. From £299.

talktous@taichination.com www.taichination.com T: 0845 257 2142

igniteOUT! Get creative in a day… 12

three months of essential events and more • 80p a word

Hunker down and learn to make something this winter! Melanie West finds some excellent short courses

Make gorgeous, glutenfree bread

Low Impact Living Initiative (LILI) are committed to helping “people reduce their impact on the environment… gain new skills… have fun and save money”. Their gluten-free baking course in Chard promises a day of alternative kitchen delights, including ideas for wheat, dairy and glutenfree diets.You will be whipping up a storm under the watchful eye of Bria n Murphy, a master miller. The worksho p will introduce you to different flours and ingredients to start your culinary voyage of discovery. The morning session is dedicated to bread-makin g and the afternoon session to pastry and cakes.You will need to bring an apron and a container for your prize d creations so you can show them off to family and friends. Or maybe just eat it all on the way home! You can also check their car share forum if you need a lift.

Chard, Nr Somerset, February 10, 10am –3.30pm, £77.50, www.lowimpact.org

Weave some lovely willow structures

Out to Learn Willow can take you through your paces when it comes to being creative with this most flexible of trees. Based in Bridgend, south Wales, they specialise in creating structures to enhance outdoor spaces with community groups and schools and they also run courses in living and dried willow weaving. Their one-day courses are suitable for complete beginners and all materials will be provided. Full instructions will be given to get you started. For a joyous journey into making decorative pieces you may want to sign up for their “Hedgerow Hoops and Hearts” course.You will be gathering hedgerow material from your surroundings within Parc Slip Nature Reserve and combining it with willow to make your finished creations to take home.

Out to Learn Willow, Tuesday February 8, 10am-4pm, £50, 01656 881007 / 880514, www.outtolearnwillow.co.uk

Try some blacksmithing

Carve a spoon from green wood

The professional craftsmen at the Blacksmith’s Guild have been plying their trade for over 40 years and they provide a variety of courses for the beginner or more experienced blacksmith. They run Forging Taster Days where each student works at their own forge, learning how to light it and use a hammer and anvil.You’ll learn techniques such as drawing down to a taper, twisting and simple scrolling. All equipment is provided, (stout footwear is necessary for this work).You will have unique finished pieces to take home with you at the end of the day. If you’ve ever watched transfixed as a horse is shod, you may just discover a hidden passion for this craft. Previous course attendees have even gone on to become national blacksmithing champions!

If you want to learn how to be creative with wood by making something beautiful and practical then a spoon-carving workshop could be just the thing. The Cherrywood Project near Bath is run by Tim Gatfield, who had a dream to own and manage a piece of woodland, passing on the associated joys of working and learning in it to others. Hannah is your instructor for this day-long adventure with green wood. She will help you to select the right material for the job and introduce you to a range of tools to produce your finished item. Tuition in safe tool usage and appropriate design will be included as part of the day.You will get to take your wooden wonder home with you and the day includes a home-cooked lunch in this idyllic woodland setting.

The Blacksmiths’ Guild, Starcross, Exeter 01626 890503 One-Day Forge Taster Course, January 22, £75, 9am-4.45pm www.blacksmithsguild.co.uk

20 April, £75, Cherrywood Project, Nr Bath Tim Gatfield 07921 361484 www.cherrywoodproject.co.uk

Make delicious chocolate truffles

If you fancy a classy treat for those long, dark nights then you might want to diet for a day before attending this sumptuous-sounding workshop. The Chocolate Tart cookery school in Somerset is dedicated to using fine ingredients and locally sourced products where possible.You’ll find Lisa nestled in a quiet courtyard in Congresbury where you can take advantage of some of her culinary secrets; she must be doing something right, having cooked for the Queen.You will be shown the art of making hand-rolled, fresh cream truffles.You’ll also learn a variety of different techniques including moulding and embellishing edible gold and coloured patterns onto your chocolates. The later stages of the workshop will introduce you to a range of ways to stylishly present and package your treasured pieces. Lisa’s ‘classic’ threehour workshop runs on Dec 22 (wine or soft drinks served throughout). She also offers half-hour versions of this workshop and hen party workshops. December 22 2010 6.30pm-9.30pm, £70, 01934 876881 www.thechocolatetart.co.uk

Forge some beautiful copper jewellry

Make a skirt from recycled materials

If you want a glimpse into the lives of our ancestors then Dave Budd’s Copper Working Course may interest you. He specialises in making hand tools and knives to ancient designs and running courses in primitive technology. From his woodland workshop within the beautiful Dartmoor National Park he’ll show you how to make wonderful items such as bracelets, brooches, torcs and pendants.You will be using hot and cold forged copper which will be planished and polished into your own unique designs. To heat the copper as needed, participants work on an old Iron Age forge and a Roman/ Saxon Forge, powered by bellows and charcoal. Tools are provided and are all made to Iron Age and Saxon designs around 2,000 years old!

If making sense of a clothes pattern brings you out in a cold sweat, or if jamming your little-used sewing machine is an all too familiar story then look no further. Julie’s Skirt in a Day workshop requires no previous sewing experience to join. Participants are provided with their own sewing machine and can be sure of developing their skills over the day. Julie will demonstrate how you can make a simple skirt in a wraparound style with the fabrics of your choice. A pattern will be adjusted to fit you and this can be taken away to help you make more items in the future. The skirt can even be reversible.

Saturday February 5, Bristol Folk House, £28, 10am-4pm, some concessions available. 07890 443705, www.julieroberts.co.uk

Copper Making Workshop, March, (date tbc), £100, 0776 474 2569 www.davebudd.com

Design some enamel on copper

Jeff Ford has been practising the craft of enamelling on copper for 40 years. From his base in the Cotswalds he offers one-day courses in this unusual craft for two to six people at a time. The basic technique involves preparing a piece of copper, adding a glue and building a design using enamels. The piece is either gas fired or placed in a kiln and left to cool. At the end of the day, you should have a beautiful handcrafted piece of one-off artwork! Depending on your progress, Jeff will try several techniques with you throughout the day. The course is held in his Alpine-style wooden chalet studio near Stroud. Lunch is included in the price of the workshop.

Jeff is flexible on dates, call him on 01453 882870 or email jeffanddenley@hotmail.co.uk to arrange a date. Courses run from 10am-3.30pm, cost £60

Who am I? What is life? The Interfaith Seminary's one and two year training brings intense and joyful inquiry to these fundamental questions. Recent students describe the journey as 'radical homecoming, continued awakening, healing and acceptance....'

Training programmes commence each autumn.

Join us at an experiential introductory event! Call or visit our website to find out more about our introductory events. www.interfaithfoundation.org UK enquiry line: 08444 457004

Many Ways : One Truth The Interfaith Seminary is part of the Interfaith Foundation, a charitable company limited by guarantee. Registered Charity No: 1099163 (England and Wales) SCO40148 (Scotland) Registered Company No: 4432622 (England and Wales).

We are currently recruiting for:

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14 Q & A

Sheila Chandra five-year sabbatical, and I’d spend four or five hours a day studying and immersing myself in different vocal techniques – the trills and turns and ornaments used in Indian classical music; the muezzins calling from the tower; the traditional sean nos Irish singing; the best from all around the world. What’s your biggest mistake? Not making more of my years in the music business when I was younger. I probably should have come back a bit sooner from my sabbatical or done something a bit more high profile. I was taking my time but I didn’t realise I didn’t have that much time to take. Record companies have an unofficial policy of not signing older artists, which basically means anyone over 25. It’s pretty harsh. Of course, I couldn’t have known that that was the way the industry was going to go. I think we’re all poorer for it: youth is great, but it isn’t everything. What drives you mad? When people are so stressed, so nervous or so self-centred that they don’t have the space to consider what other people might be feeling.

Interviewed by Fiona McClymont • photo Jo Halladey origin, because their rationale was “but Asian people don’t go on TOTPS!” It was that big of a deal.

Sheila Chandra was born in London to a South Indian immigrant family. At the age of 12 she attended a Theatre Arts School, where she discovered her voice and at the age of 16 appeared on Top Of The Pops as the singer in the band Monsoon. Their single ‘Ever So Lonely’ was a top ten hit in various countries around the world. A pioneer in the world music genre, Sheila has been a singer/songwriter for 28 years, releasing ten albums: her music has been described as a “breathtaking tapestry of uncommon beauty”. Having always managed herself and her career, without assistance, over the years Sheila devised a system to eradicate clutter in her home and office. She has now published this blueprint as her first book, entitled Banish Clutter Forever – How The Toothbrush Principle Will Change Your Life (Vermillion - £7.99).

How did you come to write a book about banishing clutter? I realise it’s a very incongruous book for a singer to have written, but I’ve always had a great love for passing on what I know. That’s what I did with my vocal work, and this book is similar. It’s about the passing on of skills and finding a unified principle, a blueprint. That’s what the book is: a blueprint for living. What is the ‘Toothbrush Principle’? Even the most disorganised person never seems to lose their toothbrush: even in the most chaotic household, people clean their teeth and then put the toothbrush back within arm’s reach of the sink, every time. Now, that’s a tiny but perfectly organised and efficient system. The same system can be applied to the rest of your house too and it can solve all your clutter problems.

What’s the best thing about living in the South West? I’ve lived near Glastonbury for about 20 years and I just think it’s one of the prettiest, warmest and friendliest parts of the country. And the countryside seems to light up in the summertime: it’s not called Somerset for nothing!

Were you always tidy? I didn’t inherit an orderly mental blueprint, I actually used to be really messy. My family were incredibly poor, we lived in a very deprived area, in an old, crumbling Victorian house. It was very difficult to keep clean and my mother happened to be a person who was very chaotic with both possessions and time. As a child I absolutely hated the chaos. Clutter is like a noise that interrupts me - I can’t think straight with a lot of mess around. But like a lot of people, I just didn’t know how to be tidy, I simply didn’t have the tools. So I made every possible mistake and it took me ten years to work out my own system for living.

What would you like to see more of in the South West? There are so many alternative practitioners in this area, which makes for a lovely nurturing community on tap, but I feel a little more industry and serious business for people to get their teeth into would make the area a bit brighter. What’s your biggest achievement? Being in the charts in 1982, aged 16, with probably the first world music hit and as the first, very visible Asian on Top Of The Pops. There I was dancing in front of a sitar and tabla, in a sari! It sent little shock waves through the music industry and proved that there was a market for world music, which led to people setting up their own labels to promote it. It was far-reaching for the Asian community in Britain too: it marked a point at which our culture stopped being viewed as a problem but instead as something that had brought cultural riches to this country. Some Asians were so shocked they refused to believe I actually was of Indian

What inspires you? I would have made a very good Victorian botanist or something like that, because I’m the kind of person who, if I have a passion for a subject, goes into all the detail and researches it. I like to discover things for myself. So as a singer, what inspired me was the realisation that everybody throughout time, in all cultures, has had the same instrument, right under their noses: their voice. Early on in my musical career I took a

What’s your greatest fear? Not having meaningful work, not being able to share what I’m passionate about and pass on what I’ve learnt. I like to be useful. I might be useful in a very esoteric way but as the famous song says, “People need bread, but they need roses too”. Is it really that important to be tidy? I’m not the tidy police! I don’t say that you have to keep things spotless or in a minimalist state. This is not about looking like someone in a super stylish lifestyle magazine, it’s deeper than that; it’s actually about empowering yourself to live well. If your house is chaos, it isn’t nurturing you. If you have set your house up so that it’s working against you, you’re fighting it every second of the day to get things done and then you wonder why you’re feeling stressed or your self-esteem isn’t good. I know lots of alternative, self-employed practitioners who suffer from this incongruence between the wonderful, serene, healing space they are creating for their clients and the absolute chaos the other side of the connecting door into their home. I actually think that does cause a slight emotional and psychic distress. What’s been your most memorable trip? Years ago, I performed at a music festival in the Soviet Union; they couldn’t pay me in hard cash and offered me carpets or jewellery as payment. Instead, I told them I wanted to travel for a week along the Silk Road with a driver and an interpreter: that was my fee. So that’s what I did, and the most memorable moment was when our car was stopped by two policemen in the middle of rural Uzbekistan. They said we were speeding but we weren’t, I think they were just incredibly bored. Anyway, they said they would let us off the fine if I sang them a song so I sang them a folk song, there at the side of the road, while they quietly listened. What has life taught you? To be true to yourself, to do the thing that you love and not to pay too much attention to outward markers. If awards and accolades, or big cars and houses are what make you happy, then fine. The chances are, though, that there’s something much deeper within you that’s going to want satisfying, and that’s the feeling that you lived a good life, that you’ve made a contribution to the world and that your life has meaning. Do what you think is right, even when other people call it madness. www.sheilachandra.com www.thetoothbrushprinciple.com (to find out more about the book and take the interactive quiz to find out your individual clutter-pattern/type).

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16 planet

Got a passion for green issues and experience of writing? Email editor@thespark.co.uk

green giants

Protest the forest sell-out!

Green party MPs, conservation charities and environmentalists from all corners of the UK are rallying to oppose government plans to sell off 150,000 hectares of forest, and other land owned by the state in England, within three years. In potentially one of the biggest land sales in British history, The Forestry Commission may stand to lose about one third of the 1.85 million acres of woodland it currently controls. The plan is designed to raise funds to help to pay off the Budget deficit. “This move could see private developers allowed to clear ancient trees to make way for holiday resorts, golf courses and adventure playgrounds,” says The Independent.

photo Will Hinchcliffe

Farmers Paul and Jill Britten are on the front line in the battle for our Green Belt land. Will Hinchcliffe meets these unsung heroes

Paul and Jill Britten

aul and Jill Britten have worked their organic farm in Whitchurch, south of Bristol, since 1957. The couple have always planned to pass the 160-acre farm on to their children so they were taken aback to find surveyors snooping uninvited in their fields. Realising belatedly that the developers were snapping at their heels they steadfastly refused to sell, rejecting every offer thrown at them. Paul says: “I think of myself as a custodian of this land, rather than the owner. I’ve been entrusted to look after it for future generations. It’s my own Garden of Eden”. All over the country our Green Belts are under threat. The last Labour government established the Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) which set high targets for house building all over the UK and since then Green Belt has become hot property. The RSS aimed to meet the demand for more housing and in the process, control rising property prices. Councils were forced to accept large house-building targets: 33,000 new buildings threatened Bristol’s Green Belt alone. Green spaces are more attractive to developers than ‘brownfield’ sites as they are cheaper and need less negotiation and surveys to build on.

Action stations

People like The Brittens are at the frontline of the battle for the countryside and have stood firm despite offers of £4 million. When Jill learned of the housing plans she formed the Whitchurch Village Action Group with neighbour Mary Walsh to oppose the development. “In the beginning I thought, I’m going to lose this, but I’ll go down fighting,” she says. The Whitchurch Village Action Group raised awareness of the issues surrounding this potential development at a time when the councils were trying to keep it as low profile as possible. The public jumped on the issue and started sending letters to their MPs and local councils. The Whitchurch group soon came into contact with other groups fighting Green Belt development, united across the South West under the Save Our Green Spaces banner (SOGS). SOGS insists that the development of Green Belts would further increase pressure on habitats for wildlife and threaten biodiversity. Decreasing the amount of land available for farming means production has to move abroad or intensify here, leading to what Paul Britten refers to as “concentration camps for cows”. The Brittens say they are not against housebuilding, but that sites should be more carefully chosen. “Why don’t the local council consider all the alternatives before letting

developers build on green fields?” they say. Just for starters, there are a staggering 52,692 empty homes in the South West alone, and according to 2009 figures, 7,184 of these are in Bristol. Campaigners are hoping that the new coalition government and local councils will reintroduce laws making it compulsory to examine all brownfield sites before any development on green spaces is allowed. The efforts of SOGS in the run-up to the General Election meant that the issue was firmly on the radar. The Coalition Programme for Government stated: “We will rapidly abolish Regional Spatial Strategies and return decision-making powers on housing and planning to local councils, including giving councils new powers to stop ‘garden grabbing’.” The good news is that the Brittens have had no approaches from developers since the formation of the new government. Bath SWAG group (campaigning for threatened green spaces around Bath and Newton St Loe) have seen plans for development abandoned (reported in Spark

www.38degrees.org.uk/page/s/save-our-forests www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Feed-in tariff threatened

Miguel Mendoca, who we interviewed in issue 59 of the Spark, writes this on Bristol ecojam: “The UK feed-in tariff, which took years to get in place – and which is now starting to produce great results for citizens, communities, councils and companies – is threatened by the coalition government’s Spending Review. Show your support for the FIT scheme by signing the petition. www.bit.ly/90gd0p

Save & Generate

Last issue we heard from energy consultants Save&Generate, who talked to some early pioneers of wind power. If you enjoyed the article and have any more questions about generating your own energy from renewable sources, Save & Generate give free advice on their website. Their web-based service is aimed at private households and small businesses to help them source the best sustainable energy technologies, service providers and installers. S&G are working in close collaboration with community groups around the Bristol area to provide face-to-face advice on energy-related issues. www.saveandgenerate.com

“I think of myself as a custodian of this land, rather than the owner. I’ve been entrusted to look after it for future generations…”

Cheltenham in transition

Cheltenham is the West Country’s newest Transition Town. The transition group has been supported by environmental charity Vision 21, and supported financially by Cheltenham Borough Council. The group is now looking to raise awareness of environmental issues through hosting speakers, co-ordinating community events and showing inspirational films. A local food growing group has already been set up and “In Stitches,” a new sewing group, aims to recycle materials and increase skills by being creative with textiles.

62). BANES Council released the following statement after the General Election: “The Regional Spatial Strategy was developed by the previous Government and imposed housing targets which this Council never supported. That strategy has now been scrapped by the new Government…”

Space ache

Within Bristol’s city limits, the story is not so cheerful. The Lib Dem-dominated City Council has opened up 62 individual green spaces across the city for potential development under the Green Spaces Plan. Resistance from local people will undoubtedly follow as tenders are put in for new housing etc. Proposed development on Green Belt land in Longwell Green has just been rejected by South Gloucestershire planners following strong opposition from local people. Earlier this year, the fields around Ashton Vale were considered for Village Green status by an independent inspector, in light of plans to build a new football stadium. After collecting evidence from local people that the land has been well used for over 60 years, the inspector has recommended that the status be granted. There’s a petition in place to support it. Disappointingly, Communities’ Secretary Eric Pickles recently gave the go-ahead to the £150 million expansion of Bristol airport on Green Belt land. North Somerset Council welcomed the development. Jill Britten is staying vigilant. “We have to keep our ears close to the ground to keep track of government developments and stop unscrupulous developers.”

Email cathyclimatechange@yahoo.co.uk, 07523 072598, www.transitiontowncheltenham.org.uk

Gloucester windfarm

A new windfarm is proposed in South Gloucestershire between Shepperdine, Hill and Rockhampton. The four turbines will supply the average electricity demand for over 5,500 homes. Stone Yard Lane windfarm is supported by local people from South Gloucestershire Friends of the Earth but the proposal needs more support. Sign the petition to South Gloucestershire Council below. www.bit.ly/aQRpv9 www.southglosfoe.org.uk/doku.php www.stoneyardlanewindfarm.co.uk

Compassionate shopping

The 12th edition of the Compassionate Shopping Guide is now available from Naturewatch (£3). Offering the definitive lowdown on cruelty-free & eco-friendly products. www.naturewatch.org

www.saveourgreenspaces.org bathswag@live.co.uk www.bit.ly/9ojVTC

Community Farm needs investors

Chew Valley Community Farm is looking for investors. The community-focused enterprise was originally set up by Phil Haughton of the Better Food Company, with an ethos to build connections between the community and the land, enabling members direct participation in the day-to-day running of the farm. Shares in the farm start from £50. www.thecommunityfarm.co.uk

Meat: A Benign Extravagance by Simon Fairlie

reviewed by Alex Cater Do not read this book for shocking facts and figures from a hardline animal rights activist. Instead it is a scholarly analysis of the real cost of the global meat industry from an ex-vegetarian, ecological writer, farmer and meateater living in a sustainable commune in Dorset. A farmer who rears and slaughters his own livestock, Fairlie says the book is the result of his own personal research into the environmental and human impacts of mass meat production. Opponents of meat production point to the inefficiencies of pouring food fit for humans into livestock production. There have been instances in some less developed countries, for example, where staple crops are sold as animal feed to first-world farmers, thus depriving the local population of food. Fairlie’s book seeks to quantify, examine and judge both sides of the argument fairly. He nitpicks through statistics, pulls up misleading information and lays bare the facts. He looks at different potential models for UK land use: chemical, organic and permacultural, each option explored with and without rearing livestock. He looks at the resources needed for each land use model, how land would be fertilised, what could be grown or reared, the suitability of UK soil/land for each model and how the production of food and ultimately the diet of the UK would be affected. Simon’s personal conviction seems to be that it would be beneficial to keep farming animals, but at a drastically reduced level to the current model. He gives examples of how human waste has been used for centuries to keep pigs and chickens and that, far from being wasteful, this is resourceful. With vegetable oil taking the place of oils gained from animals in our diets, he outlines the environmental impact of shipping vegetable oil to a country that can produce its own oil from animals. He also points out that other luxury crops of comparable inefficiency – including coffee, strawberries, asparagus, wine and tea – do not receive the negative press that meat does. Ultimately he recognises that meat is an issue that is necessarily further complicated by the questions of morality that surround farming animals for meat. Overall this book is an extremely detailed and insightful read. Fairlie is a welcome, mediating voice on a complicated and emotive issue. £19.95, www.permanent-publications.co.uk

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18 social change

tuning folk For real diversity and unusual stories, look no further than community radio. Will Simpson checks out this overlooked medium and asks: how easy is it to set up a station yourself?

Hannah Thomson is a single mum who experienced this transformative effect when she volunteered for Stroud FM: “I was feeling quite isolated really, so working here has given me a connection with the outside world. I get guests for the drive-time show, do research for the presenter and have done some interviews myself. Being out of work for quite a while is very confidence draining. Doing this, it puts me in a better position for when I do want to go back to full-time employment.”

The future

But despite all this positive work, community radio is increasingly under threat. With funding streams drying up and further public sector cuts looming, many stations face an uncertain future. Then there is the vexed issue of digitalisation. At the time of writing, the Coalition government is still planning to start the switchover from FM to digital in 2015, which could potentially leave community radio high and dry. “It seems barking mad,” says Claire Penketh, Station Manager of Stroud FM. “They’ve given all these stations licences and then they decide not to keep the platform that we’re on. You’re trying your best, all our volunteers are trying their best... and that recent thing they had where they give people an incentive to go and buy a digital radio! It just sticks in the craw.” Petitions are being signed and a campaign is gathering force. But in the short term perhaps

Some of Stroud FM’s new DJs in the training room

t resides on the far side of the dial from the showbiz world occupied by Chris Moyles, Terry Wogan and their telephone digit salaries. It’s unflashy and unpretentious, but can genuinely claim to have changed a significant number of ordinary people’s lives. Community radio is arguably one of the UK media’s best-kept secrets. Since 2005 over 200 community licences have been granted to stations across the UK. Most of these are not-for-profit operations that broadcast to a small geographical area (like Somer Valley FM or Stroud FM) or to a specific section of the local community (Radio Ujima, which serves Bristol’s African and Afro-Caribbean community). Nearly all exist on a shoestring budget and rely on a steady stream of volunteers plus a hell of a lot of enthusiasm. But they produce some brilliant radio. If you’re sick to the back teeth with Heart and Kiss, with their ultra-conservative playlists and bland DJs, then 30 minutes listening to a community station is a real tonic, an insight into what independent commercial radio could have been like before the advertisers, the market researchers and media conglomerates took over. It’s informative, full of character and local colour, and often made by the sort of people that wouldn’t get within a million miles of a BBC studio.

DIY broadcasting

Setting up a community station is actually easier than you might think. “Ofcom look at an area and say “we would welcome applications from here,” explains Phil Gibbons, station manager of Bristol’s BCfm who sits on the board of the Community Media Association. The Association “champions access to making broadcast media for people and their communities to achieve lasting positive social change.” Phil says: “It all depends on whether you can convince them that you would be filling a perceived need. At the moment there are no more licences available in Bristol. But if somebody from somewhere else came along and said ‘we’re a youth centre and every year we do a week long broadcast and we think we could do this full time,” then Ofcom would likely give them the licence, if everything else fitted, like sustainability and accountability.” Indeed it helps if you have had some experience. 10 Radio, which broadcasts out of

Wiveliscombe in mid Somerset was granted a number of short term licences before it went on air full time. “There were four of us who started it,” explains station manager Julian Mellor. “I had read about community radio, thought ‘what a great thing to do’. Then I spoke to the head of the local secondary school and he said “brilliant, that sounds great, I’ll give you £4000. Get on with it.’” For Stroud FM, the catalyst was obtaining a short-term licence for the duration of the Fringe Festival; they then went full-time in March 2008.

Hidden voices

Community stations often play vital social roles in their (sometimes diverse) localities. “We’re not a radio station,” claims Phil Gibbons of BCfm. “We’re more of a social cohesion and education project. We don’t narrowcast to one group and we try to be as inclusive as possible. How often do you hear Somali women on radio, talking about their lives? We get these women on, explaining ‘this is what it’s like in our household, it’s not what you perceive.’”

Stroud Radio’s Clare Jackson (right) researching an oral history project community radio’s greatest battle is simply in making itself heard. Without the resources to fund elaborate marketing campaigns, the awareness of stations like Stroud and BCfm is low in the very communities they serve so well. Phil Gibbons muses on this. “Well, obviously it would be great if we had a huge marketing budget,” he admits. “But actually if we had a huge amount of money I’m not sure we’d spend it on that. There are lots of other things we need to be doing. Because we’re not selling advertising it doesn’t really affect us whether we get 1,000 listeners or 100,000 listeners, cos we can’t sell advertising to them. “Commercial radio is there to maximise its listenership. We’re not. We’re here to give people a voice who are normally underrepresented and have traditionally not had that voice. And in those terms I think we’re really successful.”

“Commercial radio is there to maximise listenership. We represent people whose voices never get heard” “Making people feel better about themselves, knowing each other, breaking down those barriers: that is what community radio is all about. It’s not about taking on Kiss or the BBC.” To this end BCfm, like many community stations, runs courses and trains people to present, engineer and produce their programmes; people who are often from marginalised sections of the community. “We’ve got one guy at the moment with severe learning difficulties,” explains Gibbons. “He’ll never work for Heart. He comes in and we work with him and he goes away having done stuff on air. Might not be the best radio you’ve ever heard but for him it’s probably the most important thing he’s done this year. So we work with young mothers, ex-offenders, kids that have been excluded from school… it does change people’s lives and that’s what our licence is for.”

www.commedia.org.uk

Your community stations BCfm – 93.2 FM 10 Radio – 105.3 FM Radio Ujima – 98 FM Stroud FM – 107.9 FM Somer Valley FM – 97.5 FM

rural voice Noreen Wainwright Noreen lives on a farm with her husband Brian and writes for the Guardian, the Daily Telegraph and Farmers Weekly. She tells us how farmers are the best recyclers of all…

irst of all I thought it was only my husband. Then as I got to know the local farming community, I wised up. Every last one of them is an inveterate hoarder, and what they don’t instinctively know about recycling isn’t worth knowing. Gradually my irritation at the “hoarding” gave way to a reluctant admiration. “You’re not throwing that away, are you?” Brian asks anxiously, when I’m getting rid of anything. But he still surprised me when I was about to chuck out a leaking old bucket. “You’re not throwing that out, are you? That will be perfect for taking a bit of corn to a cow, or for fruit-picking”. Sometimes I put my foot down. “Look, I want that out of the house now, look at the state of the place”, I say. With much muttering, he complies. Months later, I stumble across the item in one of the sheds. Not disposed of then, just relegated.

Old bits of wood are fashioned into bird tables, or used as emergency stop-gap fencing; every possible piece of metal, screw and bolt is kept. Old towels, sheets and shirts are cut up and given a second life outside in the garage. Cushions and cushion covers that are frayed or tatty are judged just the job for tractor seats. I noticed him carefully washing and drying the containers from a take-away one night. By then I barely raised an eyebrow. “Ideal for carrying staples when I go across the fields fencing,” came the answer to my unspoken question. Old cardboard boxes are lined with straw for goose eggs on market day, and containers of all sorts are kept to store nails and tacks. The plastic dairy chemical containers are used in the winter for coal and logs. The lids are cleaned and filled with water and feed for the hens. As for clothing, well, every day on a farm is dress how you like, as long as it keeps out the elements. I’ve seen a plastic bag threaded through with baler twine and worn as an apron, and hessian sacks make great capes. I think it must be in the blood. Around these parts, they all have sheds and boxes filled with stuff that just might come in useful. The stylists and advocates of life laundry would have a collective nervous breakdown. But there is another side to this mindset. For six weeks, during the harsh 1947-48 winter, my husband’s late mother, a young girl at the time, and her family, could not leave the farm. That is almost inconceivable to me. They must have been tough, and it’s fair to say, they must have wasted nothing. Like everyone else, we have our recycling bins, but a good few wine bottles are kept back. You see there’s always a calf that just won’t suck from its mother, and a rubber teat on a milkfilled wine bottle is the next best thing. Then there’s the homemade damson wine. Well, you didn’t think we’d let all that fruit go to waste, did you?!

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LI VI N G PROOF TH AT I T WORKS! 19

20 food Galleries Shop and Café, owned and run by the Freshford and Limpley Stoke Community Association. The closure of the village shops, in 2004 and 2007, meant that the residents of Freshford and Limpley Stoke had to travel over three miles to reach the nearest shop and five miles to the nearest supermarket. The new, centrally located store (right next door to Freshford Village Hall) incorporates a small indoor café, a village shop stocking a wide range of locally sourced goods, and has a Post Office offering services two days a week. Gitte Dawson, Chair and Secretary of the village steering group says: “The shop has revitalised the community. Over 50 residents have agreed to volunteer in the shop and 100 families have committed to a certain amount of spending per month.” Peter Couchman, chief executive of the

open all ours For many of us, driving to the supermarket every time we want a loaf of bread is not a lifestyle we want. Darryl Bullock on the rising tide of local shops being resurrected and run by the West Country communities who need them…

ere in the West Country we’re very aware of what happens to small towns and villages when the local post office or pub is forced to close: vibrant neighbourhoods lose their hub, people have fewer places to meet and communities can wither. No-one talks to their neighbour and life outside of the front door ceases to exist. The same is true when grocers, butchers and other food shops are lost; areas which have no access to fresh produce can become ‘food deserts’, forcing people to get in their cars and drive to supermarkets miles away. One great response to this trend is the community shops, run and staffed by volunteers from the local area. According to the Plunkett Foundation, which supports co-operatives and social enterprises in rural communities, there are in excess of 230 community shops currently operating in the UK, most run entirely by volunteers, with more than 40 of those are right here in the West Country.

fridges, freezers and shelving units, as well as a team of shopfitters to help set the store up.

were donated to good causes in the community,” Alun Evans, chair of the shop’s management committee, tells me. “We discovered that there was not only significant support for a shop but that it could also be commercially viable. The trial run proved to us that there was a demand: we were taking £1,500 in just two hours on a

Keep it local Alongside essentials like newspapers and toilet paper the shop stocks a wealth of locally produced goodies. “The ethos was to try and keep it local wherever possible,” Alun adds. That means pies from Bristol’s Pieminister, freerange eggs from Naite Farm in nearby Oldbury-on-Severn, butter and cheese from Coombe Farm in Crewkerne, ice cream from Marshfield Organics, dried goods from Essential Trading and cured meats, bacon and sausages from the Easter Compton Farm Shop. Like Almondsbury, Bathford Village Shop is run by a crew of enthusiastic local volunteers (headed by part-time manager Kevin Mortimer), and is part of Bathford Enterprise for All (BEFA) Ltd, a co-operative made up of more than 200 members of the local community. Again the emphasis is on local suppliers, with bread from Hobbs House in Chipping Sodbury, bacon and sausages from Sandridge Farm near Chippenham, organic milk and cream from Frome’s Ivy House Farm, homemade pies and quiches from Marshfield Butcher’s and locally sourced fruit and vegetables. One of the most recent community shops to open in our region launched last September. Two years after their last shop closed, the residents of two small villages near Bath celebrated the grand opening of their new, purpose-built, community-owned shop, the

Organic wholefoods Food for All, in Hartcliffe, is one example of a not-for-profit community-run shop that aims to make healthy food affordable to local people, selling organic wholefoods, fruit, veg and Fairtrade goods, plus as much locally produced food as they can get their hands on. Another great project is the Almondsbury Community Shop, which opened last February after a trial run in 2008, and in their first full year of trading took £116,000. They made a 25% profit so they donated £900 to the local mother & toddler group and the church roof fund. Not bad for a sleepy little village whose last grocer closed some eight years ago! “The group first came together in 2004, establishing a business where all of the profits

Saturday afternoon. People were queuing around the block to get in!” The group, the Almondsbury Community Services Association, managed to secure grants from the Plunkett Foundation, which has helped over 300 rural businesses over the last three years. Rural Renaissance (run by Bath and North East Somerset Council and the South West Regional Development Agency) provided funding, and a Community Awards Scheme from a major supermarket provided around £7,000 worth of 20

“This has enhanced community spirit to a new level simply because more residents meet and talk to eachother now” Plunkett Foundation commented, “Community ownership is often the only viable solution for rural communities looking to save or reintroduce a vital service such as a shop. It is great to see what has been achieved by the villages of Freshford and Limpley Stoke by their communities working together.” “Because volunteer-run shops are not paying wages it means that we can price things competitively,” Alun Evans adds. “So long as we can cover rent and utilities, we can afford to be cheaper than other village stores. People have had to move away because of the lack of facilities, but opening the shop has transformed the village. “None of us could have imagined how successful this venture was to be. Many parishioners would be devastated now if it was to close. This has enhanced community spirit to a new level simply because more residents meet and talk to each other now.” www.plunkett.co.uk Food for All. Unit 4, The Gatehouse Centre, Hareclive Road, Hartcliffe, Bristol BS13 9JN Tel: 0117 964 7228. Mon-Fri 10am-2.30pm Almondsbury Community Shop. 14 Church Rd, Almondsbury, Bristol BS32 4ED. Tel 01454 202412. Mon-Fri 8.30am-6pm; Sat 8.30am-2.30pm www.somerset-rural-renaisance.co.uk Bathford Village Shop. 54 Bathford Hill, Bathford, BA1 7SN. Tel 01225 859186. Mon-Sat 7:30am-5:30pm; Sun 8am12:30pm www.bathford.net/BEFA.php Galleries Shop and Café. Freshford, Somerset BA2 7UR. Tel: 01225 723249. Mon-Fri 8am6pm; Sat 8:30am-12:30pm; Sun 9am-12pm www.plunkett.co.uk

1/2010

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22 food the chicken whisperer… season’s eatings

ammy Riggs has been making noise about whole food and sustainable farming since the 1980s, long before ‘organic’ became a buzzword. Like many pioneers of the early green movement, she spotted a growing trend towards industrialised farming and took direct action to feed her family in a different way. “We started growing our own because we wanted food that wasn’t poisoned by pesticides and which didn’t harm the wildlife of the countryside in the growing of it,” she says. “Back then no-one was talking about it.” Now the woman better known as River Cottage’s Chicken Whisperer runs the multiaward winning Providence Farm in Devon with her husband Richie, with its own farm shop and mail order beef, pork and poultry business. Pammy also teaches the poultry module of a BTEC course running at Britain’s only biodynamic agriculture college, and is heavily involved with local food and farmer’s markets. Feted as one of Rick Stein’s ‘Food Heroes’ she also teaches a half-day workshop to kids called, ‘What on Earth Are You Eating?’, promoting ideas for changing eating habits and encouraging children to change their often sugar and salt-fuelled diets. Her latest initiative is to get more city dwellers keeping chickens. “It’s time for the

Growing and cooking tips for the winter months

urban population to relearn the skills of chicken keeping and build a sustainable network for themselves,” she says. “Did you know you could be harvesting 300 eggs per year from one chicken in your back garden and half of its food could be free? The knockon therapeutic effects of working with animals are being recognised all the time; we owe it to our children to put them back in touch with nature.” Pammy is looking for co-ordinators in Bristol and surrounding towns to help her to organise these chicken-keeping sessions, so get in touch if you can help. Alternatively, if you or a group of friends want a workshop, Pammy and her Travelling Hen House can come to you. Pammy’s also keen to take her children’s workshops to a wider audience: “If there are festival organisers or schools out there who feel this timely subject should be included at their events I’d like them to get in touch. My food security programme for children is based on the positive aspects which surround us and highlights just how much there is to take advantage of, but only if we start the ball rolling now.” The workshops have already been a great success in Devon. “The Children engaged brilliantly with the message of thinking about what you buy and what you can produce for yourself,” says deputy head teacher Anne Bunning, of Holsworthy Primary School in Devon. “Our lifestyles must change and children deserve all the help they can get,” says Pammy. “A little time spent now, taking in helpful, practical facts could harvest huge rewards for their futures…” www.providencefarm.co.uk Email pammy.riggs@tiscali.co.uk or tel 01409 254421, www.rachelcarson.org.uk (Biodynamic Agricultural College)

Storage When storing vegetables for the winter it’s best not to wash them first: use a brush to remove soil and cut the tops off root vegetables like parsnips before putting them into cold storage. Wrap apples in newspaper and store in boxes or baskets in your garage or garden shed (anywhere they’ll be protected from the frost), keep potatoes in paper sacks and regularly check any produce you have stored, removing any that are spoiled. Growing Depending on how cold it is, February should be about the right time to start off broad beans, onions, peas, carrots, potatoes, parsnips and even lettuce but some of these may need to be started under cloches, as we’ll still be experiencing frosts round these parts until mid-March. (See opposite page!) Weird winter veggies! Wondering what to do with the more unusual characters lurking in your veg box? Paula Luke from Riverford says: “Jerusalem Artichokes: Slice into 5mm thick pieces, coat in a light batter, deep fry them in oil and serve with a tangy salsa. Or roast them tossed in olive oil with a few branches of thyme and garlic cloves. They will benefit from some good truffle oil in a salad and go very well with hazelnuts. “Your Beetroot can make a shocking pink alternative to bubble & squeak! Cook 200g of grated beetroot in a covered pan with a knob of butter and tbsp of wine vinegar for 10 mins over a low heat. Mix with an equal quantity of mashed potato, 2 fried onions, 1tbsp of soured cream and 1tsp of creamed horseradish. Leave to cool then shape into cakes, dust with flour and fry in butter until golden.” (For more winter recipes see ‘The Riverford Farm Cook Book’ by Guy Watson & Jane Baxter). www.riverford.co.uk

••food news••• The Better Food Company have opened up their second Bristol store on Whiteladies Road. “There are lots of things happening around food on Whiteladies Road,” BFC’s Lucy Gatward tells me. “If you walked down the street four years ago it was all chain stores; now it feels like the rebirth of a proper High Street. “We’re working with around 70 local producers and there’s a real groundswell of enthusiasm about real food and local shops and a big backlash locally against big supermarkets. People know that we’re very different to the big boys and the feedback so far has been amazing.” Over in Redfield, Bristol, Alex Thompson and Chloe Lester have opened a fruit and veg shop on Church Road, a busy thoroughfare which, until recently, had boasted a greengrocers for more than 60 years. Dig In specialises in locally produced, seasonal produce, organics, fruit and veg boxes and a range of fresh salads, drinks and snacks. The couple asked local people what they wanted. “Our customers told us they want local, seasonal food, plus loose items rather than having to buy pre-packed bags of potatoes or apples,” says Alex. The couple hope that other businesses will follow their example: “I’d love to see a fishmonger open up here, and maybe a butcher too,” Alex says. Finally, the Spark would like to wish a big Happy Birthday to Mike Abrahams and the team at Wild Oats, celebrating their 30th anniversary. Deceptively small from the outside, Wild Oats is stuffed with everything from award-winning organic breads, a huge selection of chilled and frozen foods, organic wines & beers and a great deli plus an impressive range of supplements, skin care products, herbs, homeopathic remedies and aromatherapy. They do mail order too. The Better Food Company: 94 Whiteladies Rd, Bristol BS8 2QX, www.betterfood.co.uk Dig In: 229 Church Rd, Redfield, Bristol BS5 9HL www.facebook.com/diginbristol Wild Oats: 9-11 Lower Redland Rd, Bristol BS6 6TB, www.woats.co.uk

making your market

through a small commission of around 10%, taken from any profits you make. All food handlers must take a hygiene course (some markets even arrange and subsidise them) and follow strict rules to maintain high standards. Frome Country Market is one of the biggest in the area, meeting every Thursday morning at the Cheese and Grain. Market manager Liz Brock, who has been involved in Country Markets for 17 years, tells me: “It’s nice to be able to provide for your local community, we have a lot of customers who know us and our products.” One of the main benefits she cites is traceability: “You can see who produces the food, where it came from

ountry Markets is a co-operatively run organisation which holds around 400 regular markets across the UK, selling home-grown produce, home-made cakes and preserves, potted plants, textiles and pottery. Once part of the Women’s Institute and with a 90-year history, Country Markets enables people to buy direct from local producers at fair prices. If you have a passion for baking or an overflowing allotment, this could be an enjoyable way to enhance your income, and with 18 markets across Sparkland it’s a great enterprise to join. Membership fee is just 5p and overheads - such as room hire – are paid 22

and know exactly what you’re getting. All of our produce comes from within a 10-mile radius, making it truly local.” For anyone interested in joining Frome Country Market Liz suggests that you: “Pop in and see us on a Thursday morning or check the website. We are all very approachable and eager for new people to join.” Country Markets also make a great option for your weekly shop; Liz particularly enthuses about their new preprepared meals, fresh cut flowers and, of course, all year round seasonal fruit and veg. www.country-markets.co.uk www.fromecountrymarket.co.uk

doing it yourself I

t’s time to share all that home grown knowledge that you lot are harbouring. Whatever you’re building, brewing, creating or inventing we want to know about it! Email your insider info to editor@thespark.co.uk and we’ll print the best of ’em each issue…

make your own soothing winter balms Gail Francombe

ur winter build a cold frame for yo seedlings james Murray-White

kit

Materials needed l l l l l

s aucepan & glass bowl to fit inside it l tablespoon (a cooking measure is most accurate) l

s aw, hammer nails, screws 2 x brass hinges 2 old windows various lengths of timber

l l

tbsp (30ml) calendula2 infused oil l 2 tbsp (30ml) veg oil (rapeseed, olive or sunflower) l 2 tsp (5g) grated beeswax (for a vegan version use olive wax

Place one wooden frame on top of the other. Depending on the width and amount of wood you find, the cold frame could be of infinite height, depending on the plants you plan to grow. This frame is 28cm high, with an extra 1.5cm for the thickness of the PVC window, which is plenty. Lay the two windows on top, and (if using wooden windows) attach with hinges flush with the top of the frame so they open upwards. I used a central bar to create two compartments.

or candelilla wax) l 10 drops of lavender essential oil

This is a wonderful multi-purpose balm which harnesses the healing properties of calendula and lavender. It’s great for moisturising lips and dry skin and for healing mild skin complaints. It’s easy to source local rapeseed oil, beeswax and lavender oil. Lavender is soothing, calming and antiseptic. It can help minimize scarring and soothe skin irritations such as burns, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis and acne. Calendula is antiseptic and antiinflammatory and can be used to heal any type of skin complaint: dry, chapped skin, itchy skin, eczema, psoriasis, bruises, burns, acne, grazes, cold sores and nappy rash. Beeswax creates a protective barrier on the skin, helping it to retain moisture.

Step 4 Step 1

It’s important that as the weather warms up, the seedlings aren’t fried under the glass, so make sure one or both the windows can be propped open.

Gather your materials. I actually found 2 PVC sliding windows, which meant I couldn’t attach them to the timber with hinges, but they fit the frames perfectly so I compromised.

Oils and jars Look for ‘extra-virgin’ or ‘cold pressed’ oils. These have been extracted by pressing the seed which means they retain more of their vitamins, nutrients and fatty acids. Avoid highly refined cooking oils which are extracted using high temperatures and chemical solvents and then deodorised and bleached. Rapeseed oil is a very nutritious oil with a high level of omega 3 and vitamins E, A and K, which give the oil antioxidant and regenerative properties. Olive Oil is rich, nourishing and protecting, containing the antioxidant vitamins E and A. Cold pressed sunflower oil contains vitamins A,B, D and E. It makes a pleasant, light base oil. Sterilise your jars using a steam steriliser (such

Step 5 Step 2 Cut the wood. I found long lengths of decking wood, and cut them into 4 x 98cm and 4 x 88cm, to create two wooden frames, secured with wooden screws.

t easpoon 60ml glass ointment jar

ingredients

Step 3 I came back to these shores after five years in the Middle East, eager to get my hands into British soil. I’ve had some success on the allotment but the wet summer saw lots of plants and seedlings drowned. The kitchen in our basement flat has been my incubation lab, overflowing with seedlings, desperate to be in soil, but waiting for sun. When it has been sunny, seedlings at home and on the allotment have been badly attacked by slugs and snails! Here’s an easy, step-by-step guide to building a cold frame to protect plants from the cold and pests, and support seedlings for next spring’s planting:

as those used for baby bottles) or place in a saucepan, cover with cold water, bring to the boil and simmer for 5 minutes. Allow to air dry.

I’ve filled my cold frame (above) with some late season coriander and feverfew, and peppers that need an extra boost. This size cold frame would be ideal to start off tomatoes and fruit in grow bags for next spring. To extend the life of your cold frame, give all the lengths of wood a coat of a preservative or an eco varnish.

Part 1: Making an infused calendula oil (You can buy calendula oil ready infused. If you do, go straight to Part 2). Fill a jar with dried calendula petals. (Buy them from a herb supplier or you can grow and dry your own. Cut the flowers with a few cm of the stem still on and dry them upside down in a dry, shady place). Pack your sterilised jar full of the dried petals. Cover the petals with your chosen oil and gently push a spoon handle around the edge of the jar to release any air bubbles. Put the lid on and leave to infuse away from strong sunlight. After six weeks strain the contents of the jar through a muslin cloth, squeezing to remove all the oil. Leave the oil to settle before using.

Part 2: Making the balm Step 1: Sterilise your jar. Create a bain marie or double boiler by half filling a saucepan with water and bringing it to a gentle simmer. Place a glass bowl, slightly smaller than the saucepan, inside the saucepan. Step 2: Put the beeswax, calendula oil and vegetable oil into the glass bowl and gently melt. Avoid stirring the mixture as the beeswax will stick to the spoon. Step 3: Once the beeswax is completely melted take the glass bowl off the heat and allow to cool for a few minutes. Add the lavender essential oil. Step 4: Carefully pour the mixture into a sterilised ointment jar and leave to cool and set completely. Put a lid on it and label the jar. The balm will keep for 6 months to a year in a cool place. The balm is for external use only and should only be used sparingly on babies and children. It’s advisable to carry out a patch test on the inside of your elbow 24 hours before use to check for any allergic reaction. Gail has her own natural skincare business, inspired by her great great Auntie May (www.goodnessandwonder.co.uk)

24 family Beccy Golding on playing out in the streets ’til tea-time, brilliant storytelling resources and the Golden Oldies group who give the older generation something to sing about

Remember as a child knowing the other kids (and grown ups) who lived on your street, calling for them, and playing out ’til it was time for tea? Feel a little regretful that your child doesn’t have the same opportunity? The increase in traffic, pull of TV and computer games, fear of strangers and lack of time to connect with our neighbours means that we don’t feel confident in letting our kids out onto the streets where they live. Many of our children don’t have the chance to play freely, use their imaginations, explore risk, develop social skills, get physical and explore their local area. Alice Ferguson and Amy Rose are two mums from Southville, Bristol, who have created an inspirational project called Playing Out. This year, they organised temporary road closures in six south Bristol streets, so after school local children had a chance to experience the fun of playing out. “Adults have been present to keep an eye on things but the children have relished the chance to play freely in their street and invent their own games,” Alice said. “Popular activities have included

improve their paper recycling, and Ribston Hall High School in Gloucester wanted to produce refillable and recyclable whiteboard pens. The site also has resources for teachers. www.footprintfriends.com

Smories Smories are original stories for kids, read by kids. You can upload your own stories, or films of you reading your stories, and submit them to the monthly cash prize competition. There’s a new story up every single day for your kids. Lovely. www.smories.com

The Cupboard Monster The Cupboard Monster from local publisher Tangent Books, and written by singer/songwriter Peter Franklin, is a children’s story which begins with noisy rumblings in an old Bristol townhouse. The book, suitable for early readers, is illustrated by Peter Franklin with design work by Bristol artist and designer Nick Law. It comes with a free mp3 download so you can hear the author himself telling the story.

www.playingout.net

www.tangentbooks.co.uk

Footprint friends Footprint Friends is a new online social network for 10-18 year-olds interested in environmental issues. Moderated forums enable young people to discuss climate change issues and how to take action on them. Their Wipe Out Waste, or WOW Awards were for school pupils who had ideas for reducing waste and saving resources. Two of the ten finalists were from Sparkland schools: Sir Bernard Lovell school in Bristol looked at how to

Golden Oldies Many of us love a good sing-song, and recognise how good it makes us feel. The Golden Oldies Charitable Trust was founded by choir leader Grenville Jones in January 2008 and started by running fun singing sessions in Sheltered Housing projects in Bath. Now there are over 60 groups from Swindon to Weston-super-Mare and Gloucester to Yeovil, offering social occasions to older people (Goldies), some of whom may be lonely or vulnerable. As well as the hour-long karaoke-style singing sessions, Golden Oldies offers information for families on nutrition and other lifestyle issues for older people. In October 2010 they ran the Time After Time community project for schools in B&NES, bringing together young and old through a week of singing. Golden Oldies has been nominated as Local Charity of the Year for the 2011 Bath Half Marathon in March. www.golden-oldies.org.uk To become a Golden Oldies session leader, call Abby on 01761 470006. To run for them in the half marathon, email Sarah at events@golden-oldies.org.uk

recommends looking for fabric and fittings from Ikea and Ebay to save money and www. wrapababy.com for links on how to use slings. Local mum Imogen makes Mei Tai carriers from recycled material for £40. She prefers baby-wearing because “One major difference between a sling and anything else is that in a sling you can feel your child. You can feel every wriggle. You can tell if they’re asleep or awake. You can easily feel if they’re too hot or cold and the child gets the benefits of close contact as they can also feel your comforting movements. Now, as my son gets older, if he’s in the sling we can chat as we walk along, whereas when he’s in the buggy it’s much harder.” Following media reports this year regarding the safety of some of the more mainstream slings, it has become even clearer that retailers selling slings need to give expert advice. All the websites and retailers mentioned give safety information regarding their slings. The Consortium of UK Sling Manufacturers and Retailers (www.babyslingsafe.com) give the following advice when buying/wearing slings for a newborn: T.I.C.K.S (Tight, In view at all times, Close enough to kiss, Keep chin off chest, Supported back). The expert advice on positioning your baby is this: “An upright carrier should hold your baby the way your arms would, eg, facing you with legs in a frog-like, spread-squat position with the baby’s weight supported across the buttocks and thighs.” (see http://continuum-concept. org/reading/spinalStress.html). Basically, your baby should have his or her weight dissipated through their legs and hips, as opposed to the style that has the legs hanging down, where the young spine has to bear their entire weight.

knew I wanted to use a baby sling with my first child. I just had no idea how big a part of my relationship with my daughter it would become. I had a picture in my head of her daddy carrying her for the odd cross country walk. In reality I carried my little girl almost all day every day for the first three months as she would only sleep in my arms. I still use a sling now she is a toddler to scoop her into when she’s tired of walking. Slings and other carriers have been used for centuries and are still popular all over the world. However, I was shocked at how little advice was available in mainstream shops. The carriers I had bought originally (recommended by a popular mother and baby Kirsty with her Mei Tai sling magazine) were just not good enough. My back became sore; my baby was stressed. So I set off in search of the perfect carrier, meeting There are hundreds of excellent carriers on new mums and finding a whole new hobby in the market all based around traditional baby the process. wearing cultures (see www.slingguide.co.uk). Proponents of babywearing cite evidence Good retailers include www.littlepossums. that carrying babies in slings reduces incidents co.uk, a web-based shop run by local mother of crying, colic and reflux in newborns of two, Philippa, who started the business (according to my lovely health visitor). It is because of her love of slings. She gives online also convenient for breastfeeding. Parenting and email advice to customers about choosing expert and father of eight Dr Sears (www. and fitting slings. AskDrSears.com) who coined the term A good sling or baby carrier can vary ‘babywearing’ believes babies learn more in price from £30-£100. Second-hand is when worn and are able to adapt to their obviously cheaper, (if you’re a member of the new environment NCT, their ‘nearly new’ better. He claims “In a sling you can feel every wriggle. You sales are a good place to they interact and start). Natural Mamas can tell if they’re asleep or awake, too hot or and the Yahoo group socialise more too cold… and the child gets close contact quickly and are UKbabywearingSWAP are and can feel your comforting movements” also good resources. smarter. Worn babies see the The easiest slings to world as you see it while in a state of “quiet make yourself include wraps (www.jenrose. alertness”. com/sling/slingtxt.htm), Korean Podeagi I discovered www.naturalmamas.co.uk (Pod) slings (www.sleepingbaby.net/jan/ where parents buy and sell second-hand slings, Baby) ring slings (www.sleepingbaby.net/jan/ and give advice on babywearing and making Baby) a Mexican Rebozo (www.borntolove. slings. There are sections for arranging meets com/frugal-column9.html) or Asian style Mei (also advertised on www.slingmeet.co.uk) and Tai (www.thebabywearer.com). a group of us started meeting regularly in Fellow Sling meet mum Elaine, who has Bristol, swapping advice and trying on slings. made her own Mei Tais and a Pod,

Sling Meets need new mums! If you’re interested post a message on www.slingmeet.com or www.naturalmamas.co.uk suggesting the next date. Find Imogen’s Baby Slings on Facebook, tel 07799 747875 www.bigmamaslings.co.uk (Bristol-based online store for more links). www.littlepossums.co.uk

photo Little Possums

Kirsty Cottier unravels the world of baby-wearing

A ‘woven’ wrap (from Little Possums)

photo Little Possums

It’s a wrap

scooting, cycling, hopscotch, chalking and even stilt-walking. It’s been heartening to see how much the Playing Out sessions have brought different generations and residents together. Older residents have shared their memories of street games and taught skipping rhymes and other forgotten games to the younger ones.” And now Alice and Amy have created a website to share their experiences and inspire others anywhere to have a go themselves. You can watch a great video that documents their successful events or download the really excellent ‘Playing Out Manual’. I also really like the section ‘Easy and Effortless Things’ which gives you suggestions for small actions you can take day to day to help you, and your kids, feel less like strangers in your own street.

photo: Kamina Walton and the Ashton Gate Primary School Documentors Group

photo: Kamina Walton & the Ashton Gate Primary School Documentors Group

Playing out

A ‘stretchy’ wrap (from Little Possums)

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mind body & spirit

Zen Dojo

Amitabha

We reckon Bristol’s Gloucester Road has more Buddhist Centres per sq metre than almost anywhere in Europe. Beccy Golding took a stroll to find out who’s who, what they share and what makes them stand apart…

etween a fried chicken joint and a betting shop you’ll find the calm quiet space that is Bristol Zen Dojo. Jeremy Cole, one of four Bodhisattra monks in Bristol, said “We’re part of the Association Zen Internationale (AZI), in Bristol since 1986, first in Hotwells, then Redland, and here since 1992. The premises were cheaper and offered us more space.”

me the sitting posture: cross-legged facing the wall, off-focussed and breathing. Noting thoughts then letting them go. Simple. “It’s a practice that influences our whole lives, but it’s not within our daily life,” he said, “afterwards we go about our normal routines: home to families or off to work.” Bristol Zen Dojo, 91-93 Gloucester Road, Bristol, BS7 8AT. www.zenbristol.co.uk Adrian Tuttiett 0117 942 4347

“We accommodate all levels of interest,” said Chonden, “from 40-minute drop-in classes every weekday, to foundation training over a few months, to teacher training which might last for 14 years.” What do you share with other Buddhists? “We are all trying to develop controlled, peaceful minds. Every living being has inner enemies, or delusions – ignorance, selfishness, anger, pride – but we also all have seeds of love, compassion and wisdom. Buddhism is about stopping the delusions and developing the good.” Amitabha Buddhist Meditation Centre and World Peace Café, Old Vicarage, Gloucester Road BS7 8NX. 0117 974 5160 www.meditationinbristol.org

Bristol Zen Dojo: finding serenity in unlikely places The Amitabha Buddhist Centre What makes Zen different from other forms of Buddhism? “Nothing!” he said. “That’s p to Pigsty Hill and the Amitabha our core branding, if you like – nothing. It’s Buddhist Centre, part of the New about simplicity, it’s pared down. If I was to Kadampa Tradition (NKT). Gen Kelsang make a comparison, I’d say we were more like Chonden (Gen meaning teacher, Kelsang Quakers in that respect.” Zen is a Japanese his family name, and Chonden his day-toform of Buddhism. The practice is called day name) greeted me in his red and orange ‘za-zen’, literally ‘sitting still.’ What do you robes. Previously on the Downs, later in share with other Buddhist traditions? “Like Leigh Woods, they’ve been in this old the others here on Buddhist Boulevard,” he vicarage for three years. As well as meditation laughed, “we practise the way of the Buddha. and teaching rooms and the World Peace One hour of za-zen each day creates a period Café (vegetarian and open to all), a tenof peace. It’s a quiet practice, we don’t preach strong community lives here. The rooms are or market ourselves decorated with vibrant, very much. It’s not colourful Tibetan “We are all trying to develop controlled, peaceful an easy practice: paintings, sculptures minds. Every living being has inner enemies it’s formalised, and photos, there or delusions… Buddhism is about stopping the with rules you are offerings of food delusions and developing the good” hold to,”. In and drink, and in the terms of hierarchy, prayer room, the most there isn’t much. “A beginner is the same beautiful giant Buddha. as someone who’s sat for 25 years.” As we “What makes us unique is that we drank tea and chatted Jeremy was down to incorporate all Buddha’s teachings but the earth in jeans and a jumper. Then he donned presentation is ‘new’,” Chonden said, “we his ‘Kesa’, a traditional black robe, elegant teach in the local language and use customs and dignified, “from a design handed down that local people are comfortable with.” That from the Buddha; we hand stitch our own as means English chants and prayer books, part of the practice.” In the dojo he showed presented in an understandable, practical way.

Satyalila inside the Bristol Buddhist Centre terms of teachings, practices & inspiration; we’re ecumenical, meaning that we don’t draw exclusively from one school of Buddhism. “What we share with the other Buddhist centres around here is that we derive our practices from the teachings of Buddha. Through these practices we can develop the wisdom to see things as they really are.” Bristol Buddhist Centre, 162 Gloucester Road, BS7 8NT. 0117 924 9991 www.bristol-buddhist-centre.org

ou’ll find Bristol Buddhist Centre right opposite Amitabha. It’s run by the Triratna Buddhist Community, until recently known as the Friends of the Western Buddhist Order (FWBO). Satyalila, one of the Buddhist Centre team, says: “We’ve been in Bristol since 1981, first in Long Ashton, then St Andrews. This centre opened in 1997. We’re here because it’s affordable, central, accessible by public transport, and has the space we need. Triratna means ‘Three Jewels’, and symbolise the three jewels of Buddhism: the Buddha, the Dharma (teachings), and the Sangha (spiritual community).” What makes you different? “We place great emphasis on the Sangha (spiritual community) and friendship; look at how we practise, work and live together. We’re translating practices into the here and now, in a way that is relevant,” Satyalila said, “and we’re anarchic really. There’s no overarching legal structure, no head office. We see lineage in 26

The Sakya Buddhist Centre

akya Buddhist Centre is on the corner of St Andrews Park in a large, converted 1930s house. “We’ve been in Bristol since 1977,” Liz Thomas told me, “first in Clifton, then Totterdown, and finally here since 1995.” The centre is brightly coloured, comfortable and decorated with traditional Tibetan paintings, wall-hangings and Buddha statues. “After the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959 there was a major exodus of lamas,” Liz explained. “Many went to India, where in the 1960s they met Westerners and were invited ›› here. Our centre was set up with the

mind body & spirit ››

blessing of His Holiness Sakya Trizin (the head of the Sakya tradition).” I’m learning that the concept of lineage is held

27 “Another USP is our emphasis on the arts interested people.” – we see a dynamic link between creativity Rachel told me that within Buddhism there and meditation – if you can unclutter the are three different ‘vehicles’ which are often inside of your head it unleashes potential a progression from one to the other: sutra, for creativity as well as for kindness and tantra and dzogchen. “Sutra is about finding compassion.” The shop-front and understanding bookshop and upstairs shrine, emptiness.” Tantra “All beings experience the same is the path of suffering and all practice is done with decorated in a vibrant, Tibetan style, will exhibit local artists. transformation. the ultimate aim of benefitting There will also be poetry and “It takes difficult all beings” music evenings, classes in emotions and calligraphy and other Buddhist transforms arts such as thangka (banner) painting; them into their enlightened equivalents, and classes in Aro’s martial art: Gar Tak or an energetic practice which uses song and ‘Dancing Tiger’. movement.” And dzogchen is the path of “What we share with other Buddhist self liberation. “It allows emotional energy traditions is that we practise for the benefit to be as it is without manipulating the world of others, and we are engaged in a process to conform to how we want it. That is the enlightened state. Our body of teachings enable of discovery around the nature of mind and reality.” us to access dzogchen right from the beginning, Aro Ling Buddhist Centre for meditation and rather than following a progression.” the arts. 127 Gloucester Road, BS7 8AX. What else makes you unique? “Aro is 0117 239 8505 www.aro-ling.org unusual in that we have a mostly female lineage. We are part of the Nyingma, bought from India to Tibet in the 8th Century by he Lam Rim Buddhist Centre, across Yeshe Tsogyel (known as The Female Tantric town in Bedminster, opened 21 years ago Buddha).” The lineage can be followed and also really needs a mention. Mike Austin, from her to Aro Lingma (died late 1920s) Chair of Trustees (“and general oily rag!”) through her son to Rinpoche, “the first told me: “We are unique because we have two Western incarnation in this line. Tibetan authentic Tibetan monks as teachers (one lives culture is mainly patriarchal, but the Dharma in Wales, one in Bristol). We also organise (teachings) are not. We also place great teaching visits to the UK by His Holiness importance on romance (vs celibacy) as a the Dalai Lama.” Lam Rim hosts the Bristol spiritual practice. We have a whole body of Tibet Group and is based at the Centre for teaching on intimate relationships leading to Whole Health (offering holistic therapies and enlightenment. Buddhist study). www.lamrim.org.uk

“It’s about respect for each other, being expansive and inclusive and helping others to understand the way out of their difficulties. We’re not evangelical though, you can’t foist this on people. We publicise ourselves so people can find us if they have sown the seed themselves.” Sakya Buddhist Centre, 121 Sommerville Road, BS6 5BX. 0117 924 4424 www.dechen.org

The Sakya shrine very highly amongst many Buddhists. “We have a strong emphasis on the authenticity of our teachings,” Liz told me, “you can only become a lama if you have studied with and been authorised by a lama. You can’t selfappoint.” There are four major Tibetan Buddhist traditions: Gelugpa, Kagyu, Nyingma and Sakya. Sakya is known as ‘the holder of teachings’. “It’s known for its wealth of teachings and wisdom, as a tradition it is learned and educated. It places equal emphasis on study and meditation.” What are the similarities with other Buddhists? “All Tibetan groups share the same values,” Liz told me. “We focus on compassion which arises from the recognition that all beings experience the same suffering, and all practice is done with the ultimate aim of benefiting all beings.

ext to the Olive Shed and Somerfield, in a former travel agent, the Aro Ling centre is the new kid on the block, having opened in May this year. Aro Ling is a small tradition with around 200 members. Rachel Rigby, one of the only 11 teachers, was given the brief to find a location. “We’ve been teaching and practising meditation in Bristol for 12 years but this is our first centre. I knew it should be here: Gloucester Road’s the best road in Bristol, in the world! And it wasn’t a problem for us that there were other centres nearby – it’s great – we’re all different and there’s plenty of room for the different approaches. We’re aiming to become a hub for Buddhist events, and a meeting place for all

british school of homoeopathy (25th successful year of training) is moving to

Exeter Natural Health Centre Centre managers Mo & Ali Morrish l

“Simply stunning” Circomedia’s home in Portland Square, Bristol, is a breathtaking and inspirational place for hire. Suitable for a variety of uses including performances, events, rehearsals, workshops, etc etc. Small meeting room and café/kitchen area also available.

For further information or to arrange a visit. please contact ADAM OR JUDE 0117 924 7615 adam@circomedia.com jude@circomedia.com www.circomedia.com

City centre location in large, beautiful listed building Easy commuting inc railway main line connecting station within 500m Well established as Complementary & Alternative Medicine centre with links to Peninsula Medical School Professional clinical training led by experienced, practising homoeopaths. Working with patients from year one, we aim to provide the best in active clinical training 4 year fully accredited course with well structured syllabus & student centred learning

To find out more and to apply for interview please call

Mo or Ali Morrish 01392 422555 bsh@enhc.org www.homoeopathy.com

“It has been a privilege to become part of the BSH. Even when I thought I could not cope, I was encouraged and supported and made to feel that I was valued. I am dreading leaving this year, I will miss it all so much. I think I have made friends that will last a lifetime.” Krystyna Baker

28 mind body & spirit photo: impicard

you’ve got the love Exercising helps us remember that well-being comes from looking at the mind and body together. We often know this about ourselves as individuals, but put the two together less often when it comes to relationships. A brilliant way to get in touch with your partner both emotionally and physically is through some partner yoga poses. If you feel nervous about going to a class or workshop, you can always have a go in the comfort of your own home first. If you find you both enjoy the yoga, you may even want to think about taking it one step further with some couples tantra yoga. Martin Jelfs and Hanna Katz-Jelfs have been running weekend residential tantra workshops together for 12 years helping couples deepen their love, enhance fulfilment in their relationship and connect together at all levels of sex, heart and spirit. Workshops are held at their sacred tantra temple in Wiltshire.

Christine Lunt Couple and relationship counselling 0117 924 6581 / 07900 176226 www.counsellingsouthwest.net

Something different

Jill Gabriel Couples therapy Working with Anger www.jillgabriel.com 01225 318834

Adding some sparkle to your relationship doesn’t always have to mean doing something together as a couple. Choose the right activity, and you may find the time spent away from your partner can add more passion than any number of romantic meals for two. Keda Breeze has been teaching burlesque

Jo Middleton finds some inspiring ways to connect to your loved one this winter…

inter, and particularly New Year, is traditionally a time to reflect, and to think about priorities for the coming year. What many people find is that their time has been mostly taken up with work and family life, and that intimacy and quality time with a partner takes a back seat. This is completely normal, of course, but as we focus on 2011, maybe we could also think about investing in our relationship with our partner and ensuring that we make time to properly talk, listen, maintain and perhaps even deepen that connection. Christine Lunt is a couples and relationship counsellor, who all too often sees what happens when partners don’t make that special time for each other. “There are so many other things in our lives,” explains Christine, “people have work commitments, there are children, there are the things you want to do as individuals. Suddenly you find there is no time for you as a couple.” If you’re immediately worrying about money, or who you’re going to get to babysit, remember to keep an open mind. Quality time with a partner doesn’t have to be the clichéd quiet dinner somewhere nice and you don’t always have to break the bank. “It is the little things that make a big difference,” says Christine. “Just something like watching the same TV programme and having a cuddle on the sofa. How can you go to bed feeling romantic if one of you has been watching TV and the other has been somewhere else on the laptop?” What follows are a few ideas from friends and peers who have tried or used different ways to nourish their relationships.

Make a scene…

Refkah ACourt is one third of the creative not-for-profit organisation Once Arts and Ceremonies. Specialising in designing unique ceremonies and art projects, Once describe themselves as “creators of poetic happenings and magical events, marking the day-today and the extraordinary of our lives”. One of their hugely popular products is the Valentine’s Day ‘table top theatre for two’: a mystery package containing tiny hand-made props, scripts and instructions for you to create your very own piece of theatre on your kitchen table. The story begins when two strangers meet on a train, and is designed to help couples capture their own love story in a fun and memorable way. The beauty of the table top theatre is that it doesn’t require a huge effort. “For many couples,” says Refkah, “especially those with young children, trying to go out and create a

Tantra Yoga with Martin and Hanna Tantra yoga workshops, couples tantra training, tantric massage www.tantra.uk.com The Relaxation Centre, Clifton, Bristol Sunday is couples-only spa day, 10am-9pm www.relaxationcentre.co.uk 0117 970 6616 Andrew White Whole-person relationship and marriage counselling, www.themagicofyou.co.uk 0117 968 7307 Mark Hall Relationship counselling 0117 904 0069 / 0776 744 2477 email mark@learningloveseminars.co.uk

Quodoushka www.quodoushka.co.uk Courses & workshops in spiritual sexuality Penny Wells Couples and psychosexual counsellor 0117 973 0947 Em Sawday Couples counselling with Gestaltbased approach 0117 973 8213 See the Spark’s Counselling section (p35-36) for more contacts and info

What is Tantra? by Ann Sheldon

social life together is hard work. The table top theatre gives people the opportunity to create something magical in their own home; to effectively go on a journey together but without the hassle of finding a babysitter!” “In long-established relationships, play is often something that gets put to the bottom of the pile, so this is primarily a fun activity: it’s not intimidating or at all embarrassing.” The table top theatre is completely what you make of it: if you want an hour of something playful and light-hearted, it can be that, but if you want to really open your mind, talk about things in a new way, and really connect with your partner, it can be a very powerful experience. “We have people who have been together for 30 years,” says Refkah, “who find themselves saying things they’ve never had the space or the opportunity to say before.” Christine agrees that fun is a crucial ingredient. “I ask people, when was the last time they laughed together? Think about the things you enjoyed doing together when you first met, and do more of these. People tend to think you become an adult, you have responsibilities and everything has to be serious, but it doesn’t. Be childlike, go fly a kite, have fun.”

dance for five years and believes feeling good about yourself is the key to feeling good about your relationship. “I often find it’s a partner who buys a workshop session as a gift,” explains Keda. “It’s a lovely present, of course, but the partner certainly sees the benefit too! We start with the basics of posture; standing tall, and holding yourself well is something that makes you command attention. We cover plenty of sexy dance moves, how to put together your own costume and even how to take things off in a sexy way, including peeling off long gloves.” If this all sounds a bit scary, it doesn’t have to be. “Everybody just loves it,” says Keda. “They walk in as everyday women, feeling the stresses and strains of live, not feeling sexy at all, and by the end of the day they are strutting around as confident, glamorous showgirls!” But how does a day walking tall and learning the art of dancing sexily help you connect with your partner? “It’s about confidence,” Keda explains. “If people feel good about themselves, that has a positive impact on their relationships. There’s a myth that all men want are the kind of women you see in lads mags, but that’s just not true. What men enjoy seeing is everyday women who are confident and happy about who they are, with no hang-ups about something being too big, or too small. After a burlesque workshop, women feel sexy in who they are, rather than trying to achieve an impossible media ideal.” So there you have it, plenty of inspiration for kick-starting your relationship for the New Year. Do get in touch if you give any of them a go, we’d love to hear how you get on!

Let’s get physical

Getting physical with a partner, (and not just in the bedroom), is a great way to nurture a relationship. It gets you out of your normal routine, gets the blood and endorphins pumping, and will make you both feel good about yourselves, and hopefully each other, as a result. It could be as simple as a hike or a game of badminton, or maybe something more invigorating like a spot of outdoor winter swimming. For a more indulgent time, Bristol’s Relaxation Centre offers a couplesonly day every Sunday. Outside you can luxuriate in the American hot tub, or detox in the Redwood barrel sauna and plunge pool, set in the peaceful surroundings of their meditation garden. Inside you can enjoy a steam room, spa or infra-red sauna together.

Once Arts and Ceremonies www.once.uk.com 07969 746720 Keda Breeze: burlesque workshops www.kedabreeze.co.uk Wild swimming www.outdoorswimmingsociety.com 28

For those seeking more magic in their relationship, Tantra offers a range of exercises and techniques developed over thousands of years to ignite a sense of divinity in the individual and their partner. Martin and Hannah Jelfs of Transcendence are the longest committed couple teaching Tantra in the UK. They share 45 years experience of spiritual practices and have professional qualifications in psychotherapy (specialising in sex therapies), energy therapies and bodywork. “It’s about creating a deeper, longer lasting connection with your love partner,” says Hannah. Martin elaborates: “Tantra is a huge, ancient system of postures, meditations and breathing practices to connect with the Divine; historically Yoga was a part of Tantra. Almost every couple nowadays is too busy to prioritise their relationship so we offer couples whole weekends together, with no distractions. They are given sexual meditations that they practise in the privacy of their bedrooms.” “Tantric meditations are designed to fit us together like Velcro,” enthuses Hannah. “The quality of the masculine or Shiva is to do with the visual and the quality of the feminine, or Shakti, is to do with sound or energy moving, so women need to feel.” Their transcendence courses are run in a specially built temple in Wiltshire. www.tantra.uk.com, 07875 435104 or 07973 504121

The Clifton Practice Classroom courses in Bristol Diploma in Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy for future practitioners.

The Clifton Practice (CPHT) Hypnotherapy Practitioner Diploma Course is a comprehensive ten month course part-time. Two-day weekend courses or small group weekday courses are available. The course is approximately 150 hours of classroom study. After successfully graduating the practitioner course you will be awarded a Diploma in Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy (DHP) and the hypnotherapy practitioners diploma (HPD) accredited by the NCFE(NVQIV).

Beaumont College of Natural Medicine

Designed and written by practising professionals the course will give you a thorough and sound knowledge of the application of ethical clinical hypnosis enabling you to become an effective practitioner.

INTENSIVE COURSES in MASSAGE, AROMATHERAPY, REFLEXOLOGY Beaumont College is a centre of academic excellence for the study of complementary medicine. Courses are specially structured to suit those students who prefer intensive, parttime training. Student numbers are strictly limited to ensure personal attention and to maintain our exceptional examination results. The Principal Denise Whichello Brown has been teaching and lecturing since 1979 and established Beaumont College in 1987. She is recognised internationally and greatly respected as an authority on complementary medicine.

yoga

Wells, Somerset 01749 675090

Students travelling from outside the Bristol area may be helped with travel and accommodation expenses. For a brochure and details of forthcoming courses please telephone The Clifton Practice on 0117 973 3260 or simply visit our comprehensive website www.thecliftonpractice.co.uk

Now Enrolling for March 2011

www.beaumontcollege.co.uk

Foundation, Teacher Training & Yoga Therapy Courses, Classes, Workshops & Retreats in Devon.

ELEMENTAL SANCTUARY A warm and friendly community based Healing Centre. As experienced therapists we promote inclusion, honesty and integrity. Working together towards your Physical, Emotional and Spiritual well-being. The Centre and its activities has its roots in Shamanic transformation and brings a light in the darkness.

The Devon

School

Yoga

Sarah Astarii

A member of the Independent Yoga Network.

Richard Braybrooke

Carol Fofana

Jacqueline Gower -Johnson

Rev. Sarah Mumford Berkeley Wilde Anthony Williams

SARAH ASTARII Traditional Spiritual healer of the Spirit Medicine Path. Shamanic healing Space Clearing, Journeying, Geomancy & Spiritual Guidance. 01179586047 LISA BAKER Clinical Sport & Remedial Massage, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Deep Tissue, Indian Head Massage. KORE Therapy & Dao Yin Tao. Reiki II. Psych-K and Fire Cupping. 07979574447 HELEN & KEITH BEVAN Spiritual Healing Clinic, Spiritual House Clearing, etc. 01179322411 RICHARD BRAYBROOKE Hypnotherapist and personal/spiritual development coach. Help with Smoking, relationship issues, stress and life/business direction. 01179393999 SARAH DAVIS Clairvoyant medium, EFT,Crystal therapy, Hopi Ear, Reiki, Indian Head Massage 07830183219 CAROLE FOFANA Medicine Woman who has worked 25 years with the Five Elements & Spiritual shamanic work creating wellness. Plant Spirit Medicine, Crystal therapy, Acupuncture Shiatsu. 01179397368 JACQUELINE GOWER-JOHNSON Leading painless, natural and non-invasive Thought Field Therapy (TFT)/ Parts Field Therapy (PFT) gets to the root cause of your negative emotion/pain. 07863547977 Rev. SARAH MUMFORD Works in Creative Imagination & Conscious Creation. A Spirit release/ Regression therapist, dynamic theatre, Ceremonies (interfaith Ministry) ancestral/environmental /shamanic. 01179738574 JANICE WARD MAR Experienced in Reflexology, Indian Head Massage & Reiki. Counseling, group facilitation using Creative Arts working Psychotherapeutically. Dip.A.A.T.Ed 07501086623 BERKELEY WILDE 20 years experience. Counseling, Shiatsu. Psychology (BSc Hons) Holistic Therapy. Cranial Sacral Therapy. Swedish Body, Indian Head & Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage 07747752454 ANTHONY WILLIAMS 8 years practice, Qualified in Reflexology, Indian Head massage & Aromatherapy. Treatments are tailored to suit the individual client. 07771645091

t: 01392 420573 e: info@devonyoga.com

www.devonyoga.com

Therapies: Counselling, hypnotherapy, life coaching, psychotherapy, weight loss hypnosis, energy healing, shamanism.

Life-Change Seminars The Whispers Of Love Creating Your Dream Life The Path To Enlightenment Advanced Presentation Skills How To Run A Training Seminar Business Business Secrets For Therapists and Coaches

For contact details and an up to date list of workshops, classes and events go to elementalsanctuary.co.uk

ELEMENTAL SANCTUARY 427 Fishponds Rd Bristol Bs16 3AP Contact: 0117 939 7368 mob: 0772 718 8630 email: fofana@blueyonder.co.uk

www.soul-therapy.com 29

The Sacred Fire Community holds a regular fire here on the second Wed of the every month at 7pm.

30 marketplace art

WHO CARES?

Being kinder to our planet and to ourselves Eco online Shop & Delivery Service in Bristol

• Arts • Crafts • Gifts

Ethical Trading Centre, Weavers Walk 33 Silver Street, Bradford-on-Avon

850+ green and eco friendly products including: • Laundry & Household Cleaning • Bio degradable bags • Personal care products and organic make up • Organic baby care ++... catalogue also available!

Open to all

All of Artrageous’s profits are gift aided to Children’s Scrapstore.

OPEN: Mon-Sat: 10am-5pm

Artrageous at The Childrens Scrapstore The Proving House, Sevier Street, St Werburghs, Bristol BS2 9LB Tel: 0117 914 3025 Reg. Charity No 2624238

Try our NEW Household ECO BOX Scheme Tel. 07970 752977 clare@wikaniko.co.uk www.ikaniko2.co.uk

• Organic • fairly-traded vegetarian foods • Supplements • Remedies • Essential Oils & Toiletries • Freshly baked bread and pizza

independent distributor

café Recycle your junk

Open for breakfasts, bistro style lunches, homemade cakes and afternoon tea, Tuesday - Sunday.

Man and Woman with Van Sustainable Rubbish Clearance

Open Mondays for tea, coffee, sandwiches and cakes. All of our food is freshly cooked using fresh ingredients.

The Food Hut

Tea and Coffee by Carwardines of Langford.

at Golden Acres Nursery,

Outside catering for private functions or corporate events.

35, Clevedon Road,

20% discount on food TuesdaySunday with this advert (cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers)

Tickenham, BS21 6RA. Tel: 01275 853030 www.thefoodhut.co.uk

From £25/hour (2 hour min) + Disposal

Les

Fleurs Original Flower Designs on Colston Street Bristol

0117 929 8166 www.lesfleurs.org.uk

01225 866590

Exciting new collaboration with Alvis Brothers and Lye Cross Farm Shop see website for deatails

Do the right thing with your rubbish! Call Clive: (07900) 491685 for a no obligation quotation

green Natural Bathing & Skincare Products Made Locally • From the finest Organic and Natural ingredients, sourced locally where possible. • Made with 100% Peace, Love and Respect for Mother Nature. • No Parabens, SLS or Artificial Colours / Fragrance. Recycled containers • Please see our website for new products and details of Events and Markets. • See ebay store: happy holistics • email happyholistics@hotmail.co.uk

Celebrating our 30 year anniversary!

Woodland Friends

55 Gloucester Road Bishopston Bristol BS7 8AD Tel: 0117 942 5625

RECREATING BRITISH WOODLAND

Tree planting gifts & sponsorship for • Christmas • a birthday • birth • marriage • anniversary or any other event L ocally planted in the Cotswolds

Open Tues-Sat 10:00-5:30 Fairtrade clothes • Bags • Gifts • Funky Tights Comprehensive range of Jewellery • Body Jewellery Scarves • Cards • Knitting yarns • Haberdashery and other Fantastic Stuff

01453 521 025

www.woodlandfriends.co.uk info@woodlandfriends.co.uk

The Alternative Department Store

shops

gift shop

Jewellery, Gifts and Curiosities from around the World. Watches, Silver, Costume and Body Jewellery. Watch Batteries and Straps fitted Free. Aromatherapy Oils, Crystals, Music Tarot and Meditation Cards. Candles Woodcarvings Furniture, Soft Furnishings and more.

Trading in a peaceful environment in the heart of Bristol's busy shopping centre, we offer gifts and homeware, 3/4 of which are bought direct from developing countries and small suppliers. We work with the communities who supply our goods, providing them with access to larger markets and asking them where they need support. Our profits go to fund Buddhist projects internationally and community projects amongst our suppliers. Visit us on the first floor of the Galleries, Broadmead (next to Waterstones) Tel: 0117 922 5877 E-mail: bristol@evolutiongifts.co.uk For details of our ethical trading policy visit our website www.evolutiongifts.co.uk or pick up a leaflet in our shop.

18 St Marys Street, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 2AB Tel &Fax: 01454 415303 E-mail: bibelotuk@hotmail.co.uk www.mythornbury.co.uk/bibelot

 

          

with features on ayurveda, trees, how to cope with the cuts, self-publishing, local food initiatives, competitive play and guerilla gardening

our spring issue will leave you beaming! Spark 64 out February 28

42 personal growth centres

advertising? see inside back cover or www.thespark.co.uk

Conference & Meeting Venue

Thank you for being an inspiration and a source of strength

Winter 2010/2011 Hummingbird Therapy Change your world by changing your thinking

I offer support and insight in all areas of personal difficulty & relationship concern. Bernice Birleson 0117 9214123 or 07738302966 bernicebirleson@yahoo.com

Counselling

with Arieh Kronenberg

BA(Hons), PG Dip Counselling, MBACP

For a FREE INITIAL SESSION please contact me: Mobile: Email: Website:

07967 352 054 info@arieh.net www.arieh.net

Integrative Body Psychotherapy

COACHING SUPERVISION

Stuck with a client issue? Looking to grow your coaching?

Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy & Healing

A holistic approach to facilitating the journey back to physical, emotional & spiritual wellness. • Core Alignment and Relationship Cord Healing • Colour and Energy Healing • Bio-feedback Massage • Spiritual Counseling • Aromatherapy • Chakra Work Lynn Hunt DipSEH; IIHHT 07778 932516 / llt1002000@yahoo.co.uk http://web.me.com/lynnhunt

1:1 or group sessions with Sarah Gornall Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday Book in time for clarity & development

T: 0117 330 2017 E: supervision@coachingclimate.co.uk

The Way of the Dream

Migrant Rights Centre Bristol

For therapists, artists & all interested in inner process.

We are a drop-in which supports migrants and their families in Bristol

A film seminar featuring

Working with partner organisa�ons, we provide informa�on, advice and assistance to migrants who ﬁnd themselves vulnerable, whether through employment, rela�onships, educa�on or any other situa�on.

Marie-Louise von Franz, author, trainer & Jungian analyst, which covers the big issues of life as they appear in dream.

February 18–20th 2011

How you can support us:

• Volunteer at the drop-in and provide a friendly face to newcomers

Putting Thought into Action 1:1 sessions with qualified coach Sarah Payne (member EMCC) For free initial conversation to explore if coaching is the right thing for you. Contact Sarah on: 07748 292 723 or sarah@hummdot.co.uk

MONIQUE BRASSEUR

Psychotherapy & Counselling (UKCP)

Offering you a chance to explore your feelings, desires, thoughts and life experiences. Aiming at supporting you to create a balanced & happy life.

Tel: 0117 970 6914 Mob: 0779 416 8010 monique.brasseur@talktalk.net English & French speaking www.moniquebrasseur.co.uk

Friday 5pm – Sun 1pm, non-residential. £119 (earlybird price £105) to include course materials & some food. Couples discount £20.

• Would your organisa�on like to partner with us to provide a service at our drop in?

• Join us as we campaign for human rights issues for migrants

Taster Session Thurs 6th January, 7–10pm £10, deductible from seminar fee.

Every Friday 10am–12noon from 17th Dec at the Pierian Centre

Info & bookings: info@pieriancentre.com More at

Contact: 0117 924 4512 or info@migrantrightscentre.org.uk

http://msteer.co.uk/edu/3Dream2.html

Miranda Prochazka

Presentations? Public speaking? Introducing yourself at meetings?

Clinical Hypnotherapist

BA(Hons) DHP MNCH

Using solution focused techniques, hypnotherapy can help with weight control, smoking, depression, anxiety, skin problems, eliminating fears and phobias. I offer self hypnosis for pregnancy & childbirth Please contact me for a FREE initial consultation. M: 07717 170 865 miranda-hypnotherapy@hotmail.co.uk

Public speaking courses with a difference with John Dawson 01934 830512

www.speaking-infront.co.uk imagine being at ease when you are the centre of attention

The WHOLE Treatment for the WHOLE you! A complementary approach to your Health

Sunday 6th February 2011 11am – 4pm. Come along at anytime. Find out about our courses, retreats and instructor training. Meet our teachers and course graduates. Bristol courses planned for 2011.

FREE Tai Chi and Qigong Open Day unwind and energise

11am – Teas and healthy snacks plus a brief presentation from Matthew Rochford 11.30am – Workshop Qigong for inner balance 12.30pm – Workshop Tai Chi for beginners

2.30pm – Workshop How to teach Tai Chi and Qigong 3.30pm – Question and answer session ‘ask the teachers’

1.30pm – Workshop Tai Chi for those with experience

talktous@taichination.com www.taichination.com T: 0845 257 2142

Music & Arts

• Psychotherapy • Clinical Hypnotherapy • NLP

• Acupressure

• Psycho Visual Therapy

• Clinical Psychology

• Psycho Sexual • Sexual and Marital Therapy Psychotherapy Contact The Centre for Whole Healthcare 0117 230 2831 www.thecwhc.info

WARM THANKS FOR THEIR ONGOING SUPPORT TO:

Health & Well-being

Person Centred Counselling Dan Cary (BACP)

A non-judgemental way to explore and address any concerns and anxieties you may hold. Reduced Rates Tuesday evenings 07786 805744 dancary@talktalk.net

Karen James Reiki Master

Tarot Angel & Medicine Card Readings Reiki Sessions 2pm to 5pm Saturdays Concessions available Monthly Reiki Circles from Wednesday 20th October, 6pm to 8pm. All welcome – £5 07504 351245 / karenl.james@gmail.com

PETE SEAL

Adv. Dip. Therapeutic Counselling, BACP Member

Person-Centred, Integrative Counselling Approach in a safe space to explore your issues, ambitions and feelings. Now practising at the Pierian Centre, for details

Absec@postmaster.co.uk T: 07811 370 806

Welcome to Yes Bristol!

Bristol Yes Group is dedicated to achievement, self improvement and community development. We meet on the last Tuesday evening of the month – providing inspiring speakers and a great chance to network!

CONTACT johnyesbristol@catoassociates.com www.yesbristol.co.uk

ASTROLOGY

Professional, down to earth consultations and detailed Chart analysis. Amanda Jarrold

amanda@circlesandcycles.co.uk

0117 953 9231 or 0779 155 4647

The Pierian Centre Community Interest Company Company No: 6275797 27 Portland Square, St Pauls, Bristol BS2 8SA. Tel: 0117 924 4512 Email: info@pieriancentre.com Web: www.pieriancentre.com 32

advertising? see inside back cover or www.thespark.co.uk personal growth centres 43

Weddings & Celebrations

Education & Learning

Community Events

All your efforts, energy and caring creates something rather wonderful

A World in Waiting The Colston Hall, Bristol Thursday 10th February 2011

Mapping our future! A great FREE event to draw lessons from EY2010 and move towards a more inclusive and prosperous Bristol. All welcome!

Winter 2010/2011

Shooting the War: Women Tuesday 8th March, 7.30pm

We celebrate the global centenary of International Women’s Day with a screening of Colin Thomas’ film about the role of women on both sides of World War II. “Life was better when the war came… We were looking forward to having some fun!”

Tickets: £5 (plus concs) on 0117 924 4512

This event gives voice to those who experience or work with poverty & exclusion. It brings together groups from Bristol, the UK and Europe working for social justice – and it shares solutions that work in practice. 1200 people will fill the Colston Hall to develop practical steps towards 2020. Open Space workshop: 10am–5pm Performances: 5–7pm Bookings: 0117 922 3686 Info: www.pieriancentre.com

Bristol: Before, Now, Future The Council House, College Green Tues 30th November, 9am–3.30pm

Come & explore the reverberations of history! A FREE Constellations workshop to look at how Bristol's past affects our present – and how we can work towards a future with social justice at the heart of the city. FREE lunch provided all welcome!

More info: 0117 924 4512 or info@pieriancentre.com

Meditation

An Evening of North Indian Classical Music

Friday 4th March 2011, 7.30pm

"The brilliant sitar of Ricky Romain in duet with Jon Sterckx's tabla wizardry was a first class example of musicians ‘playing off’ each other." (Colin Sell)

Tickets £10 (£6 concs). Booking essential on 0117 924 4512 or info@pieriancentre.com

Kindness & Laughter a one-day workshop with

Dr David Hamilton & Joe Hoare

Friday 3rd December, 10 – 5pm, £75

(some concessions available)

Kindness, compassion & gratitude impact the heart & cardiovascular system, combating free radicals & inflammation, which are believed to be a primary cause of a number of serious illnesses.

Laughter stimulates our pulmonary & cardiovascular system, relaxes the body, combats depression, & promotes optimism. This informative & experiential day shares the new scientific evidence and simple, effective techniques to experience more of these benefits in your day-to-day life.

To book, please contact joe@joehoare.co.uk and/or ring 07812159943 drdavidhamilton.com joehoare.co.uk

Photo Patrick Callaghan

Ricky Romain & Jon Sterckx perform an evening of North Indian Rag &Taal. Their engaging & dynamic performances range from slow, meditative melodies through to fast & detailed rhythmical interplay.

The UK’s longest running laughter workshops

Unique Conference Centre!

Pierian Peace Meditation every Tuesday 7.30–8.30pm. Donations towards the Pierian Peace Garden.

From 50-strong Conferences to small meetings, the Grade 1 listed Pierian Centre offers you a warm, professional welcome!

Water feature sponsored by Ebb & Flow. www.ebbandflowltd.co.uk

Learning Forum

Health & Wellbeing Talks

A space to learn new skills & try fresh approaches!

Tim Freke

Weds 16th February, 7.30pm The Experience of Mystery as a Doorway to Awakening

A regular forum for professionals to extend their competence and exchange ideas. Structured group work and feed-back make the sessions valuable for both the group and presenter!

What is life? What is this moment right now? Nobody knows! But as a philosopher I have an unquenchable enthusiasm for diving into this Great Mystery. And I want to share with you the reality that exists before our ideas about everything. The secret to spiritual awakening could not be simpler. As the Taoist sage Loa Tzu said ‘The mystery is the doorway’. www.timothyfreke.com

Weds 1st Dec 10am - 4pm Spring dates forthcoming:

For details contact 0117 924 4512 or info@pieriancentre.com

Friends Scheme!

Heather Fairbairn

Tues 22nd March, 7.30pm Menopause: the informed choice way

Laughter workshops With Joe Hoare

www.bristollaughterclub.com 0781 215 9943 3rd Tuesdays monthly: 16/11, no Dec, 18/1, 15/2 etc. 7.30-9pm, group prices from £6pp

Speakers Corner

Have your Say, Raise your Voice and Make a Change!

The Speakers' Corner Trust is setting up the Bristol Speakers' Corner with its very own hotbed of debate on College Green. Contact ina@vanishingrites.com or go to www.speakerscornertrust.org

Support us – and serve the community of Bristol – by becoming a Friend of the Pierian Centre!

Every woman’s menopause is unique. What she needs is the information to make her own choices about regaining control and reassessing her life. There’s no reason why menopause shouldn’t be a positive experience for everyone involved! Heather Fairbairn explains how she came to research and write the Menopause Support Programme. www.menopausesupport.org.uk

Reduced prices at our special Film Nights! Unique offers from our suppliers & caterers! Friends’ Evenings with live music & talks! And our First 100 Evening – a gourmet wine tasting sponsored by Averys! All for only £50 per year / £5 per month!

Tickets: £10 (some concs) – booking essential www.pieriancentre.com or 0117 924 4512

WARM THANKS FOR THEIR ONGOING SUPPORT TO:

A national movement of local people working to make their city a place of welcome for those seeking sanctuary from war and persecution. The first step in your support for City of Sanctuary is to sign a pledge. Please contact us on bristol@cityofsanctuary.org or 0117 941 5960 or www.cityofsanctuary.com/bristol

The Pierian Centre Community Interest Company Company No: 6275797 27 Portland Square, St Pauls, Bristol BS2 8SA. Tel: 0117 924 4512 Email: info@pieriancentre.com Web: www.pieriancentre.com 33

issue 63

ACT NOW - please don’t put this at the bottom of the pile. This is your proof document from The Spark Magazine.

Public Speaking Workshops with a difference in Bristol, London & Manchester

You can learn to speak publicly and be the centre of attention Imagine being at ease and in your flow in front of a group. And if that was true what would you do with your life? Overcoming your fears?

Becoming a powerful speaker?

John Dawson

Most people are scared of public speaking. It’s not just speaking - it could be being the centre of attention or having everyone’s eyes on you. So you may be uncomfortable in tutorials, not able to speak up in meetings, scared to make presentations or dreading the full blown speech. It’s a very well known fear - it can stop you feeling good at work or ruin a social gathering. But in four evenings or in a day workshop you CAN change the way you speak and feel in front of people. I’ve been running the course for ten years with people at all levels of speaking experience who want to be more comfortable, more themselves and more effective in front of people. Lots of people are scared but the way we work really helps to make it as safe as possible. I am trained to use the work called Speaking Circles® developed by Lee Glickstein. It’s an innovative, warm, and very human approach. In a Speaking Circle you are provided with the support you need to express yourself naturally and effectively in front of any group. By learning how to be present your listeners, you can discover the key to establishing connection as well as reducing the fear. Its all simpler than we think.

Instead of “delivering presentations”- hiding behind equipment and drowning participants with information - you can choose to have a real connection with the audience. Powerpoint has its place but its place should be as a tool rather than to dominate the process. Audiences crave a real person to connect with rather than “death by powerpoint”. You are the main feature - and the software should be in a supporting role. Are you really yourself when you stand up in front of people? Or do you find a mask to hide behind? Do you feel really tired when you’ve been giving a training or a speech? Maybe you would like to have more mental capacity or freedom when you are facilitating a group. Are your presentations humdrum and do you feel ill at ease? The work lets experienced speakers re-examine the fundamentals of being in front of a group. Our work is to develop presence - where there is more space, freedom and more connection. You move from a “performance” to connecting with the audience, inspiring them while feeling at ease. So your presentations become conversational, passionate and connected.

My passion is helping you find your voice when you are the centre of attention so you can take part more fully in life. It’s about helping you to understand what’s going on and how to be more yourself in front of a group. My core purpose is to help you take your space in the world and I love the work. I’ve been a Licensed Speaking Circles® facilitator for 10 years and I'm the only licensed facilitator in the UK. In Feb 2009 I was appointed to the Speaking Circle International Advisory Board. I also have a Diploma in Group Facilitation (IDHP). I also founded and edited The Spark Magazine for 16 years. For a chat or to book a course ring 01934 830 512, e-mail me on john@speaking-infront.co.uk or see www.speaking-infront.co.uk

“I feel liberated from my fear which is a fantastic feeling and one I quite honestly never felt I would experience in this way. I always felt I would have to struggle on with it and probably never enjoy teaching again. But, now I feel that I have been given a secret and that although I will probably feel nervous, I don’t think I will ever again feel totally mortified and want to run away.

I feel liberated not only in relation to public speaking and teaching but also in relation to being with people in general; I feel more relaxed and the need to try so hard has vanished with very kind regards Gerry

Participants’ feedback

I have been on various public speaking courses in the past and this is the first one that actually helped me relax and enjoy the experience of public speaking. I think the course and the facilitator’s approach is excellent. Melanie Very supportive, human, real. Cuts through to the heart of the issue and helps deal with them in a safe way. I wish I had done it three years ago! Ed I liked the core ideals of the course. The course works beautifully. I liked the way you gently layered the learning and the way you modelled the teaching. Roger A fantastic course which has given me a new perspective on things. A safe environment was created from the start and everyone was made to feel welcomed and accepted.

Joe Thank you very much! An excellent course that I’d recommend highly to every body no matter how nervous you are. I am very pleased with my progress Lorna The course was excellent, very useful, informative, logical, with an exceptional and inspirational coach. John has a genuine interest in your improvement - its invaluable. David

infront workshops winter/spring 2010-11

day workshops

weekend courses - speaking

2011

one day fundamentals

finding your voice - taking your place in the world

New Year Special

Fridays

March 5 - 6th Saturday & Sunday Bristol

January 7th

The most popular way of doing the work. You will learn how to: • Ease fears of speaking in public • Compel rapt attention without “performing” • Improve personal & professional communication and probably have an enjoyable time (honestly!). Read the feedback on the website.

No previous speaking circle experience required. A weekend intensive to learn how to deliver a truly compelling talk and create rapport with the audience. Find out why the answer is presence and connection and not just about the powerpoint software. Good presenters are passionate, conversational and connected. You will feel more comfortable in front of an audience, be able to think on your feet and develop a five minute talk. The weekend is fundamentally based on Speaking Circles® - with an intensive introduction on Saturday to relational presence.

On Sunday we use what we learnt about relational presence to find our own stories and to focus more on content but always from place of inviting connection. A powerful place to be. Pieirian Centre, Bristol 9.30am - 5pm Sat, 10am - 4pm Sunday Individuals £210 or £175 if booked by Feb 5 People paid for by Organisations Price £250 or £200 if booked by Feb 5th

Here’s my New Year invitation to everyone who has been putting off Public Speaking for years or hiding from being the centre of attention.

booking courses

Send to Infront c/o Church House Mews, Broad Street, Congresbury, Bristol BS49 5DG.

Please ring 01934 830512 or e-mail me at john@ speaking-infront.co.uk. Please say if you want to pay by Paypal via your debit card or send a cheque made payable to John Dawson (Please indicate which course you want), and include your name, telephone, address etc.

Please note my cancellation policy

Fridays

• Friday 10 December Bristol • Friday 7th January Bristol (special - see far right) • Friday 21st January Manchester • Friday 28th January Bristol • Friday 4th February London • Friday 25th February Bristol • Friday 11th March Manchester • Friday 25th March Bristol • Friday 29th April Bristol Venue in Bristol is the Pierian centre 9.30 - 5pm Individuals: Price £115 or £95 early bird price if booked and paid by a month before. People paid for by Organisations £130 or £105 if booked and paid by a month before

London dates for this course March 19 -20th

• up to a week before workshop - free • cancellation 6 days or less - no refund.

There are also evening classes in Bristol and other courses in London & Manchester. More details on the website

Make January 7th 2011 the day to sort it out. To support and encourage you to take the plunge I’m putting on a new year workshop at reduced prices. So instead of £95 it will cost you £65. Call it my late Christmas present! Its also a great gift to yourself to finally get your head around something that’s been bothering you for years. My promise includes no mince pies, no holly, no turkey, £30 off the course price, help for you to get more comfortable being in front of people and more laughter than you think you are going to have!

Find out about the public speaking secret that shouldn’t be a secret and about other courses and coaching on www.speaking-infront.co.uk 34

48 Letters & Competitions

Letters A letter to Doug Francis of Invisible Circus Dear Doug, I was so impressed by the words in your recent interview by Fiona McClymont (Spark 62). How true it is that a lot of being accepted is how one presents things. Having been a solicitor practising in court daily, I know that a good argument will usually win the case against sloppy presentation and inadequate preparation. I would suggest that your current vocation of recycling problem and vacant spaces is a metaphor for a life lived with conviction as a human being, steward of and responsible to and for the planet. Your words convey a rich metaphor for what is currently happening in my life. I feel I am part of a revolution in this experience and, as you say, ‘the challenge is to manage the chaos. It’s a constant balancing act.’ I quote you because I could not put it better. Maybe there is an element of compromise in making dreams come true, but I am learning that the more we believe, the more the dream will be manifest. Thank you so much for your inspiration, Alexandra Rice P.S. Thank you to The Spark for presenting such items as this. Dear Spark, I was delighted to read the article “Abode with me” by Vicki West. Cohousing is something I’m very interested in. The article ended with a quote about sharing the same dream and not having to compromise too much as otherwise it won’t work. To a degree I agree with the essence of both these points. However, there is a danger of being too prescriptive and thus risking the creation of insular communities, rather than inclusive ones that benefit from the breadth of experience of its residents. I seek to live in a diverse neighbourhood though one with which I do share some common principles. Finding others that have similar ideas is not as easy as it could be. Therefore to that end I am involved in establishing a cohousing forum. Its aim is to facilitate the creation of viable cohousing projects in the Bristol area. If any of your readers are interested in learning more they can do so at www.cohof.org.uk. Thank you for the coverage you have given to this topic. Best regards, Neil Elliot

Reader offer

New from Alistair Sawday Publishing is Bristol – A Guide to Good Living. From restaurants, cafes and bars, to shops, services and (naturally enough) The Spark, this 200-plus page directory lists pretty much everyone involved in spreading the green message locally. The book contains profiles of sustainability projects, community initiatives and tips on how to get the most out of the city. Spark readers can get hold of the book at a special discounted price. You can get a copy of the book for a 40% off the recommended retail price of £9.99 (£5.99), plus postage of £2.99, for the first book and 50 pence for subsequent copies. Just call Sawdays Publishing on 01275 395431, mention The Spark and give them your details.

Obituaries Comps

Write to: The Spark, 86 Colston St, Bristol BS1 5BB

WIN! Finisterre all-weather clothing

Sid Rawle (1946-2010)

Sid Rawle died suddenly in August this year, aged 62, while packing down the Rainbow Camp he had helped to organise. A much loved and admired figure, Sid was a veteran of the free festival scene, one of the best known faces of the New Age movement and dubbed “King of the Hippes” by the popular press. Born in Exmoor, he was an active trade unionist in his youth and after spending some time in Cornwall, moved to London in the ’60s and immersed himself in the alternative scene there. He formed the ‘Hyde Park Diggers’, who campaigned on issues of land use and land ownership, themes which would define his life and fuel his activism for years to come. He formed the Digger Action Movement with Barry Norcott and John Gillatt in the ’60s, which brought him into contact with John Lennon. He lived on John and Yoko Ono’s retreat off the coast of Ireland – dubbed “Beatle Island” – for a time, until the community disbanded in 1972. He became a leading figure in the free festival scene, organising events all over the country and was at the first Glastonbury Festival of 1971. Sid moved to the Forest of Dean 20 years ago and set up the Forest Fayre and Rainbow Camps at Westbury-on-Severn. He founded the Tipi Valley hippy community in West Wales in 1976 but was perhaps best-known for creating the infamous new age travelling group The Peace Convoy. He left shortly after the Battle of the Beanfield in 1985 – the largest mass civil arrest in English history – when a violent police operation stopped hundreds of people from travelling to Stonehenge for the summer solstice. After a period with the Green Party, he returned to setting up festivals, including the Rainbow 2000 camps. His camps were inspired by the ‘Vision of Albion’, which he described as: ‘A vision of one world united in love, a vision of unity in diversity’.”

he Spark has teamed up with Finisterre, the awardwinning, ethical outdoor clothing company based in Cornwall, to offer one of our readers the chance to win a fantastic, all-weather Anabatic Lightweight Waterproof Jacket. An ultimate piece of outdoor kit, (available in men’s or women’s style) the Anabatic Mk II is Finisterre’s version of the perfect light but hardy jacket, normally retailing at £180. A full mountain, road and travel-tested waterproof shell gives you lightweight versatility all year round, and the wired and stiffened peak, helmetcompatible hood, fully adjustable Velcro cuffs, cinch-waist hem and ergonomic cut offer you the maximum range of movement. The Anabatic Mk II utilises Finisterre’s exclusive waterproof and breathable C-Shell fabric, which is part recycled and 100% recyclable:

the fabric effectively moves moisture away from the body, while remaining both water and windproof. To win one of these fantastic jackets simply tell us: What is the name of the international organisation, supported by Finisterre, whose members contribute at least 1% of their annual sales to environmental causes? (You’ll find the answer at www.finisterreuk.com) Send your answers on a postcard to Finisterre Competition, The Spark, 86 Colston St, Bristol BS1 5BB. Don’t forget to include your name, address and phone number! Deadline for entries is January 20, 2011. You can also enter the competition online at www.thespark.co.uk

www.finisterreuk.com

WIN! A William Bloom workshop author of several bestselling books, including The Endorphin Effect and Psychic Protection. The Spark has teamed up with William to offer three lucky readers a place on a workshop of their choice with William. You’ll get inspiring tools and ideas that you can immediately put into practice, which will help you be more centred, mindful and connected to the energy of life.

Will Brown (1959-2010)

This is an abridged version of the tribute to Will which appeared on the Bristol Indymedia website in September 2010. “Will Brown was a doer and a thinker. An active campaigner from his teenage years (NUSS) he was an energetic force in CND and the Labour Party in the early ’80s. During the miners’ strike of ’84/’85 Will drove the campaign in South Bristol, supporting Cynheidre Lodge in South Wales, collecting food and money for the strikers’ families. He became interested in economics, believing that you could not challenge or change capitalism unless you understood how it worked, and co-published a booklet We’ve Cracked It in the ’80s which still reads well today. He championed green issues, and the environment, cycling, a non oil-based economy, and art. He also worked in the field of mental health as he struggled with his own episodes of anxiety and depression. He was one of those people who brought different groups together. He was active in Transition Towns while co-organising an event on the legacy of the miners’ strike with Bristol Radical History Group. He ran a group on World Economics at Kebele Social Centre which was based on discussion and shared learning. He brought radical postal workers together with anarchists to organise support. He was one of those people who was able to make those around him feel inspired to carry on doing what they are doing. This is a rare quality… Will loved being outside. He had run marathons, cycled from Lands End to John O’Groats, was keen on astronomy, loved butterflies, moths, trees and football. He loved walking and being with his many friends, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”

Now, here’s the question. When William was in his 20s he took a two-year retreat in which mountains and amongst which particular tribe of people? (See www.williambloom.com)

illiam Bloom, one of the UK’s leading authors and workshop leaders in the field of personal and spiritual development, is well known for his warm, friendly style. A founding director of the Foundation for Holistic Spirituality, as well as being a Fellow of the Findhorn Foundation and the co-founder of the Alternatives Programme of St. James’s Church, Piccadilly, William is the

Answers on a postcard to William Bloom Competition, The Spark, 86 Colston St, Bristol BS1 5BB. Please don’t forget to include your name, address and phone number. You can also enter online. Deadline for entries is January 20, 2011. See William’s full-page advertisement in this issue or his website for more info.

www.williambloom.com

WIN! Loads of lovely Tangent Books Eleven lucky Spark readers can share a £300 prize of books, cards and prints from Tangent Books, the radical Bristol publisher whose titles include art books The Banksy Q , Banksy’s Bristol, Children on the Can, and Art & Sound of the Bristol Underground, photographic books including Beezer’s Wild Dayz, a selection of anarchist tomes including Ian Bone’s autobiography Bash The Rich, plus the ever-popular Dictionary of Bristle, Naked Guide to Bristol and the new Naked Guide to Cider. Not forgetting the Cupboard Monster, reviewed on page 24 of this very issue! Go to www.tangentbooks.co.uk and you’ll find art prints, cards, children’s books, music books, novels and much more. To win the first prize, a voucher worth £50, or one of the 10 runner-up prizes of £25 vouchers, just answer the following question: In the product details for Banksy’s Bristol Banksy is placed in the context of 3D, Inkie, Nick Walker and which youth worker from the Barton Hill Settlement? (You’ll find the answer at www.tangentbooks.co.uk)

competition winners 62

Jan Castle life coaching: Shirley Hoskins, Cheddar; Boocoo real nappy kit: Ann MacDonald, Bristol; Vibram Fivefinger shoes: Sue Peggs, (Bristol), Mr J Lanning, (WSM), Suzanna Hydes (WSM); Brook hotel spa break: Sue Taylor, Bristol 48

Please send your answers on a postcard to Tangent Books Competition, The Spark, 86 Colston St, Bristol BS1 5BB, not forgetting your name, address and phone number. We’ll draw the winner on January 20, 2011. You can also enter online at www.thespark.co.uk Competition winners must create an account at www.tangentbooks.co.uk (no purchase required). The winners will have their account credited with £50 or £25, which can be spent on any products at www.tangentbooks.co.uk The credit will expire on March 1, 2011.

Rear View By Kate Evans

the Spark: at the heart of the amazing West country phenomenon • The world’s biggest organic food festival is held in Bristol • The Glastonbury Festival is the largest greenfield music and performing arts festival in the world • The Bristol Eco-Veggie Fayre is the biggest vegan event in Europe • The largest concentration of organic farmers in the UK is in the South West • Bristol has the more art trails than any other city in the UK • The longest running anti-war vigil in the UK is in Bristol • Café Maitreya, Easton has been voted the UK’s top vegetarian restaurant by the Which? Good Food Guide, the Observer Food Magazine and the Vegetarian Society • Bristol Festival of Nature is the UK’s biggest celebration of the natural world • The National Cycle Network has made the greatest overall impact to UK national life of any Lottery project. Sustrans of course is based in Bristol • The Bristol area has more counsellors per person than anywhere in the UK.

www.thespark.co.uk

50 changemaker

Magda Conway Interview by Fiona McClymont • photo by Jo Halladey Magda Conway, 37, is projects manager for CHIVA (The Children’s HIV Association of the UK and Ireland) which is made up of 150 health and community professionals committed to providing excellence in the care of children with HIV. Magda ran the HIV Forum for Children and Young People at the National Children’s Bureau in London. Now with CHIVA, she’s based in Bristol and part of her role is to organise an annual summer camp for HIV positive teenagers: an event described as “life-changing” by all involved. She lives with her teenage daughter in South Bristol.

with them and we’re guessing you’re not going to do that.” So the document was devised to give a ‘best-practice’ guide to schools all over the country and over 3,000 copies went out. I found out recently that it’s also used in Norway and that the Kenyan government use it as a blueprint.

A passion for social change is my driving force. I come from a proper old-school, socialist family. At the age of six, I’d be out canvassing and leafleting for the Labour Party and at the age of 13 I joined the Young Socialists (although I didn’t last too long there). I was brought up to believe that you are part of a community, part of something that is bigger than just yourself and your house.

I organise an annual summer camp for 100 HIV-Positive kids. You can’t feel alone if there’s a hundred of you! I’d run some smaller residentials and seen the impact of those. I wanted to make it bigger. So I approached The Elton John AIDS Foundation and asked them to help fund it. They now fund pretty much most of the work I do, and no, I’ve never spoken to Elton himself. They wouldn’t let me near him!

HIV remains a highly stigmatised disease: we need to go forward and change that. We’re still battling against the perceptions and the imagery from the 1980s: all those posters and programmes about AIDS, showing tombstones and icebergs. It was drilled into us. We were basically told “If you have sex you will DIE”. I remember, at the age of 12, my biology teacher saying to us, “Half of you will die from AIDS”. I’d lay money on that clearly not being the case. Unfortunately, there’s still an absolute fear of HIV. But the fact is, if you were 22 and you turned up at a sexual health clinic for a routine screening and they diagnosed you with HIV, they would give you a life expectancy of 80-90 years. Yes, basically a normal life expectancy, as long as you take your medication and look after yourself.

The camp brings about such amazing change in the young people. The amount of times I’ve been asked by these kids “Am I allowed?” Am I allowed?! That’s how these kids live, in this parallel world where they think they can’t have a normal life, relationships or children. So, on camp we do lots of educational workshops on their rights, learning about their medication, sexual health and how to talk to other people about HIV. The message we always push is “You have a health condition that you’re carrying with you, but you’ve got a life ahead of you, you need to go out there and live it!”

Because of the stigma, HIV-positive teenagers live with isolation and secrecy. My job is about trying to change that. The majority of children with HIV do not tell their schools, their friends, possibly even other family members. So these kids are holding a massive secret. The world stigmatises them and on top of that, they’re told by their carers, “Don’t feel bad about your condition, but don’t tell anyone”. If you can’t tell anyone, it must be something bad, right?

They leave camp walking so tall. The feedback we’ve had is incredible: these kids return from camp and are like different people. They’ve gained the confidence, the power, the energy and the understanding that can take them out of their isolation and get them out there living their lives, rather than hiding in the shadows.

Government policy and legislation is nigh-on impossible to change, but I like a challenge. I produced a document called HIV In Schools, which was a ‘good practice’ guide, looking at the pastoral care of these kids. I really wanted to say “Okay, there are over 80,000 people in the UK with HIV, but before you start kicking off and panicking, can you please remember that you’ve got a duty of care to these kids?. They pose no risk, unless you decide to have unprotected sex with them or share a needle

I’m like the rich auntie who pulls all these people from across the country and makes it happen. You can see the change in these kids happening, in front of your eyes. One of the volunteers came up to me at the end, took my hand and said “You don’t even know what you’ve done for these young people, but it’s just massive and you’ve made a real difference to their lives.” I might not be able to get rid of the stigma – that will take time and education – but this is one change that I can effect, now.

I find these kids, as a group, incredibly inspirational. They are phenomenally inspirational when you consider the adversity they’ve faced. They have a profoundness that you wouldn’t find in your average 14-year-old. They have a deep insight and understanding of how the world works, from their own experiences, which actually makes them people that you just want to be around. It was tough to find a venue… We wanted to hold the camp at a private school, one which had its own accommodation, during their summer holidays. We had four bookings withdrawn once I’d said “You do know we’re running this camp for HIV positive teenagers?” One of the schools said “The parents wouldn’t like it if they knew that these kids were on the premises,” which is a clear breach of the Disability Discrimination Act. I almost expected it from some of the schools, but I was quite shocked that a certain Quaker school withdrew their permission. As I recall, on their website it says: “All human beings are equal”. Obviously some human beings are more equal than others. I’ve never lost the childlike sense of “That’s not fair!” The experience of being turned down by schools has fired me up to shout that bit louder. I used to go on marches, hold banners, shout at the police, but now I’ve got inside the system and I use my position to say “That isn’t fair! That’s wrong”. Saying those words as an adult is a very powerful thing. I’m not Mother Theresa! It’s not about what I “give”. What I get from my work is massive. It’s grounded me and given me a sense of perspective. There’s so much that goes on in the world, it’s not just about your own little microcosm, and you can put yourself out into that big world and do good things; you can make a difference to people’s lives. By doing that, you make your own life better.

It costs £1,000 to send one teenager on camp. Any individual or organisation interested in fundraising this amount, please contact CHIVA below. www.chiva.org.uk/summercamp getinvolved@chiva.org.uk

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OWW-Ecotricity (370x270mm) ad:Layout 1

4/11/10

17:48

Page 2

New Year’s resolution?

! t c a p m i l a e r a e k Ma Bristol based conservation charity One World Wildlife and pioneers of green and renewable energy Ecotricity have joined forces to raise funds for the OWW bat project. Bats in the UK urgently need our support. The government are about to change 1/3 of our lighting within the next 5 years and a team at Bristol University headed by Emma Stone are in the position to influence the type of lighting used, which could have a massive impact on the success and survival of bats. Cute, they may be but why save them? Bats control insect population; bats transport nutrients through landscapes and ecosystems; bats are bio-indicators of environmental health and bats are ‘supposed’ to be protected under UK legislation. Almost a quarter of bat species globally are threatened from increasing human populations. The UK is no exception with even the most common species Pipistrellus pipistrellus suffering a massive population decline in the last decade. Although bats and their roosts are protected, their foraging habitats are not, and are increasingly affected by light pollution. Studies have shown that bats which are adapted for dense

habitats with slow and agile flight avoid lights as they are less able to avoid predators such as nocturnal birds and cats. Emma is determined to raise awareness of the dangers of light pollution on wildlife and bats in particular, and encouraging people to use intelligent lighting and reduce light pollution.

One World Wildlife is a UK-based charity that funds research projects around the world. We are protecting our world's threatened wildlife and habitats through practical intervention and supporting people and projects that will make the difference. Through this we hope to ensure the coming generations have the same opportunities to enjoy happy, sustainable lives. The natural world is a fascinating and beautiful place, and we are fortunate to be a part of it. At One World Wildlife, we believe it is critical for the current generation to live within its fair share of the Earth's resources. If you adopt a bat then you will receive a brilliant adoption pack containing a bat toy, colour photo, information booklet & postcards and a personalized adoption certificate. You can even add a personal message! To adopt a bat, or one of 13 other endangered species, go to www.oneworldwildlife.org. The Create Centre, Smeaton Road, Bristol BS1 6XN.

Ecotricity is an electricity company with a difference.

As green energy pioneers, Ecotricity is dedicated to building new wind turbines to fight climate change. Switching is easy and it's the biggest single step you can take to reduce your emissions and protect the environment.

Switch to Ecotricity and we will donate £40 to

One World Wildlife on your behalf. If you change your energy supplier to Ecotricity not only will you be using clean, green energy, but for every sign up they will donate £40 to One World Wildlife bat campaign! And match the charges of your local energy supplier’s standard rate. Now that really will make an impact! To switch, call free on:

Axiom House, Station Road, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 3AP.

08000 302 302

Quoting: OWW and your details and they will do the rest.