Resolutions 2012

resolutions M ake 2012 your year

IOON W SPA G DIES

AND GYM SHIP! MEMBER P.4 SEE

COURSES FUN venuemagazine | FITNESS | HEALTH | BEAUTY | HOBBIES | WELLBEING | SKILLS january|2012 // 5 cover.indd 5

12/16/2011 3:17:54 PM

p2.indd 1

12/20/2011 2:22:39 PM

All change!

resolutionscontents

WIN STUFF P.4

Win Sanctuary Spa goodies and a Nuffield Health gym membership!

FITNESS P.6

Gyms, classes, personal trainers…

COURSES, WORKSHOPS, CLASSES P.17

Writers, artists, jobseekers, performers, naturalists, linguists: come on in…

HOBBIES P.29

Make friends, live a dream, surprise yourself…

Traditionally, bitter old wintry January is when we take a long hard look in the metaphorical (and literal) mirror and frown. Bleurgh. Carrying a little holiday weight?

Still haven’t written that novel? Perhaps you’ve got some worries to burn? Or calories? Or brain cells? Or maybe there’s something a little more fundamental you want to address. Whatever your resolutions for 2012, the next 40odd pages are front-loaded with ideas, suggestions and some of our favourite places and people who can help you out. Whether you want to get fit, start a new course, change your look, your outlook or just your hairstyle, it’s all in here.

SPAS P.32

Unwind, ease back, distress, relax….

HEALTH P.37

Lose weight, quit smoking, feel better, straighter, stronger for longer

HAIR & BEAUTY P.41

Fix up, look sharp, turn heads, mwah!

COSMETIC SURGERY P.45

Sometimes, even Mother Nature needs a hand

Joe Spurgeon Editor

NON-INVASIVE SURGERY P.46

Going through ch-ch-ch-changes

The pouting specimens of perfection who brought you Resolutions 2012 (and their new year’s resolution) are: Group Editor Dave Higgitt (to reward my beautiful fleet of staff more often with lavish motivational gifts, free beer and hot tub pool parties) Editor Joe Spurgeon (to be the lead singer in D12, baby) Sub-editor Tom Phillips (to stop smoking, start it again, give it up again, start…) Writers/researchers Sarah Ashworth (to get a better job than this one), Melissa Blease (to win ‘The X Factor’), Simon Fry (to change some things in ‘The Rockford Files’), Lucy Meek (to teach the world to sing) Designer Cath Evans (to eat more, drink more and swear more) Commercial Manager Becky Davis (to take up ballet) Ad Sales Rebecca Baddiley (to increase my number of vices), Adam Burrows (to heal my inner moth with junglithic vibrations), Nejla Unal (to find a way of singing with the Muppets), Ben Wright (to get a pot belly and grow a real beard) Production co-ordinator Sam Ulewicz (to make peace with my imaginary friend Neil) Resolutions 2012 was made, sculpted, polished and stapled together by Venue Publishing, the region’s leading leisure and entertainment media group. We produce loads of great stuff including the what’s on/cultural magazine Venue, lifestyle magazine Folio, a whole suite of indispensable guides (Eating Out West, Festival Guide, Student Guide, Days Out) and run Bristol and Bath’s go-to what’s on website www.venue.co.uk We’re also rather proud of our rather fabulous in-house design service, Bang!, so if you’re after a print quote or some multimedia design work, call Dave Higgitt at the Bristol office (see below) to have a chat about how we might be able to help.

Bristol Office Bristol News & Media, Temple Way, Bristol, BS99 7HE Tel: 0117 942 8491 Fax: 0117 934 3566 Bath Office Bath News & Media, Bath BA1 1UN Tel: 01225 429801 Fax: 01225 447602 Web: www.venue.co.uk

venuemagazine

contents.indd 3

january 2012 // 3

12/16/2011 3:16:42 PM

resolutionscompetition

WIN WIN WIN!

THE BEST THINGS IN LIFE… Don’t let a little negative cashflow stand in the way of your new year’s resolutions. If you want to spend 2012 leaner, meaner, fitter and faster, or perhaps you just fancy a few spirit-lifting treats to get the year underway, this little prize package has it covered.

THE PRIZE ● Get into shape with a three-month membership (worth £250) at the rather excellent Nuffield Health, Fitness & Wellbeing centre in Clifton. Membership includes use of the gym, pool and group exercise classes to kick-start your healthy new year. All new members are encouraged to take a comprehensive health MOT and are given a personalised programme to help them get fit and healthy in 2012. This is repeated after three months so that progress can be tracked and your programme reviewed. Fancy extending your membership? You’ll be rewarded for reaching your goals with a free month, free personal training and free guest passes for friends. Nice. ● Relax rejuvenate and refresh at the heavenly, award-winning Spa at Cadbury House in Congresbury (Bristol) with a Mix & Match spa package for two. Enjoy full use of the facilities, which include a pool, jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, and top it all off with a light lunch in The Lounge. A handy robe pack is also included.

The Spa at Cadbury House Nuffield Health, Fitness and Wellbeing Centre

● Slip into a healthier state with a Glacial Shell Detox Massage at the prestigious Sanctuary Spa in Bristol. The treatment combines heat and ice therapy and targets two key problemprone areas – the stomach and the legs – with the use of chilled glacial and hot lava shells. The invigorating treatment stimulates the lymphatic system and the combination of hot and cold pressure on sensory points throughout the massage aids the breakdown of fatty tissues, stimulates a sluggish circulation and moves uncomfortable build-up in the digestive system for an almost instantly flatter stomach. ● Tone up problem areas with this detoxifying clay wrap. The purified clay has been infused with a complex of natural ingredients that have been shown to help detoxification and firming by encouraging collagen synthesis. Massaging the clay over the chosen area assists circulation and natural drainage, while extra-wide cotton bandages are designed to enable easy wrapping at home and are tightly ribbed to give an instant toning and slimming effect.

4 // january 2012

comps.indd 4

TO ENTER ● Email editor@venue.co.uk outlining why you think you should win the prize package in as many words as you like. The best answer as picked by our buff, tough and rough editor will win the goodies. The winner will be notified immediately.

Closing date: Tue 24 Jan 2012.

Sanctuary Spa's Glacia

l Shell Detox Massage venuemagazine

12/16/2011 3:22:45 PM

p5.indd 1

12/19/2011 10:24:02 AM

resolutionsfitness classes

Top class Bored of bench-pressing? Sick of circuits? Tired of the treadmill?

Sarah Ashworth scouts some alternative fitness solutions.

BIKRAM BARMY

BIT OF A STRETCH ● Yogawest is long established in Bristol, but recently, in new hands, it’s undergone a rebirth, with newly decorated premises (even the garden’s had a thorough facelift) and a more inclusive, warm and welcoming approach. The yogic timetable is full and varied, with a recently launched early morning (8am) class alongside pregnancy classes, children’s classes, restorative sessions on a Friday night and plenty of beginner, general and intermediate classes seven days a week. Isn’t it about time you (re)visited?

● Even Lady Gaga goes gaga for a bit of Bikram, a series of 26 postures carried out in scorching sauna-like temperatures, helping to loosen up your muscles for safer stretching. Instructors at Bikram Yoga Bristol (near St Nicholas Market) are personally trained by the big daddy founder, Bikram Choudhury himself. All abilities are welcome to join the 90-minute classes, so long as they don’t mind getting seriously sweaty with other seriously sweaty people. Drop-in classes are £14, 10 classes (valid for six months) are £105.

FFI: 0117 930 0454 OR BIKRAMYOGABRISTOL.COM

YOGAWEST: PRICES START FROM £7 (WHEN YOU BUY A YOGACARD) AND SESSIONS RUN ALL WEEK AT DENMARK PLACE, BISHOPSTON, BRISTOL, BS7 8NW. FFI: 0117 924 3330 OR WWW.YOGAWEST.CO.UK

WORKING THE FLOOR ● Still suffering flashbacks about being forced into your tighty-

whiteys in PE? Get over it. Adult gymnastics is a fun way of getting into shape and smashing any pre-conceived boundaries of what you think your body can do. Whether you’re an experienced ex-gymnast or still struggling with a forward roll, the City of Bristol Gymnastics Centre runs drop-in classes during the week, with a structured warm-up/basics session followed by free time to pursue your own individual requirements. Similarly, the Baskerville’s Gymnastics and Fitness Club in Bath (www.baskervillesgym.co.uk) also hold adult and mums-only classes.

CITY OF BRISTOL GYMNASTICS CENTRE RUN CLASSES AT 7.30-9PM FOR £5.50 MON-THUR AT TEYFANT RD, HARTCLIFFE, BS13 0RF. FFI: 0117 377 3420 OR GYMNASTICS@ALMSPORT.CO.UK

ME, TARZAN ●

Ever dreamt of (about?) the buff bod of an Amazonian god/ goddess? With its roots in mixed martial arts, Soeli Devane’s Amazon Total Body Workout has gone from strength to strength since she founded it out of sheer frustration battling her baby bulge. The classes mix the strength training of boxercise and the explosive aerobic movements of martial arts and are unashamedly tough. But if Soeli herself and the results of participants on her recent Amazon Eight Week Challenge are anything to go by, it works. Those prepared for a challenging workout can expect to lose weight and gain confidence.

AMAZON TOTAL BODY WORKOUT TAKES PLACE AT VARIOUS LEISURE CENTRES AROUND BRISTOL, PRICES £4-£5. FFI: 07789 005707 OR WWW.AMAZONTOTALBODYWORKOUT.CO.UK

6 // january 2012

fitness_restore.indd 6

MAGNETIC POLES ● Leave clothes on but pre-conceptions at the door: there’s some

serious skill involved in sliding around a pole and looking effortlessly sexy at the same time. Get to grips with it all at Spin City’s day and evening classes in Bath and Bristol. Regular polegoers boast superfirm biceps, rock-hard abs and thighs you could crush a watermelon between. Taster classes are available and all abilities are welcome.

Pay-as-you-go classes cost £7.50 or membership starts from £25 (for four classes).

SPIN CITY THE WORKSHOP, HAMPTON LANE, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS6 6LE; REVOLUTION BAR, YORK BUILDINGS, GEORGE ST, BATH, BA1 2EB. FFI: 07866 490876 OR WWW.SPINCITYPOLEFITNESS.COM

venuemagazine

12/16/2011 3:25:43 PM

resolutionsfitness classes PERPETUAL MOTION ●

Fancy a slightly new take on yer standard steppin’ out?

Practised at Bristol Dance Centre, capoeira is a dynamic fusion of martial arts, acrobatic dance and traditional music originating in Brazil. Think slo-mo breakdancing minus the headspins – and in capoeira only your hands and feet ever touch the floor. Brazilian instructor Claudio Campos is a Contra Mestra – the black-belt sensei of capoeira – and runs drop-in classes for every level on Tuesday evenings at the long-serving centre (35 this January!). If that doesn’t appeal, then the centre also runs Bollywood dance, flamenco and street jazz.

DROP AND GIVE ME TWENTY!

CAPOEIRA CLASSES RUN ON TUESDAYS 6.20-7.50PM, £4.50.

BRISTOL DANCE CENTRE, JACOBS WELLS RD, HOTWELLS, BS8 1DX. FFI: 0117 929 2118 OR BRISTOLDANCE@BTCONNECT.COM

● It’s all mud, sweat and tears (hopefully not yours, sissy)

with British Military Fitness, the largest and longest established provider of outdoor fitness classes based around army training. With classes taking place at three locations around Bristol (Clifton Downs, Victoria Park and Gloucestershire Cricket Ground), recruits can expect an all over, alfresco physical workout with running, circuits and more from buff instructors who are all former or serving members of the forces. Classes are graded so you’re training with others of a similar fitness level.

BRITISH MILITARY FITNESS: FREE TASTER SESSIONS AVAILABLE, UNLIMITED CLASSES PCM £35 OR 10 SESSIONS £100. VARIOUS TIMES. FFI: WWW.BRITMILFIT.COM

LET’S DANCE ● Put a smile back on your face, get trim, toned and

dance those January blues away with one of a range of dance classes available at Fuchsia Dance. Perfect your points in ballet, loosen the jazz limbs or meet contemporaries in contemporary (you get the idea) at the city’s longest established dance school in the heart of Clifton. Newbies can try a class for half price (£3.50) before signing up for more. A great way to meet other folk, too – all standards and both genders welcome.

FUCHSIA DANCE: FIVE CLASSES COST £30 AND TAKE PLACE AT THE STUDIO, LANSDOWN RD, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 3AB. FFI: WWW.FUSCHIADANCE.COM

HOOP TO CONQUER ● Hooping Mad run regular monthly classes in Bath and weekly

SPLASHING OUT ● Next year’s Olympics will see Great Britain’s water polo team competing for the first time in 56 years, flashing a little limelight upon an oftforgotten sport. It’s a fast-paced and demanding sport – players aren’t allowed to touch the bottom of the pool during play and may swim as much as three miles during a 32-minute match.

Bristol Central Water Polo Club may be a little more lenient. They have men’s, ladies’ and junior teams, and a number of current and past international players and coaches.

BRISTOL WATER POLO CLUB’S JUNIORS MEET AT BRISTOL SOUTH POOL, BEDMINSTER ON TUESDAYS BETWEEN 6.30-7.30PM. LADIES AND JUNIOR BOYS MEET AT THE UNIVERSITY POOL SUNDAYS AT 3-4PM, MEN AT 4-5.30PM. UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL SWIMMING POOL, QUEENS RD, CLIFTON, BS8 1LN. FFI: 0117 954 5803 OR BRISTOLCENTRALSC.CO.UK

GET OUT, NOW! ● Swap the sweaty (smelly?) gym for the great outdoors and get some fresh air with Bath’s Zest Boot Camp. Sign up for a month-long boot camp (three exercise classes a week at Bear Flat) and you’ll be put through your paces for 45 minutes per session with boxing gloves and pads, battling ropes and elastics. You’ll also get access to a tailored nutritional programme, and if you don’t drop a dress size in 28 days, you’re guaranteed to get your money (£99 for 10 sessions) back! If that sounds like too much hard work, then join them for a drop-in session on Saturdays at 9am.

classes in Bristol where you’ll pick up a range of tricks and movements whilst learning to dance, run, spin and hula your hoop. There’s even a workshop called ‘Overcoming Hooper’s Block’ for all the frustrated hoopers out there. Once you’ve mastered the hips, you can move on to spinning the hoop on your arms, as well as jumps and throws – and how about chucking another hoop in there too? For those out of the hoop loop, instructor Emma Kerr claims Bristol was shortlisted for the Best Hooping Community in the world at last year’s Hoopies (the, er, hoop Oscars) and is currently home to Hoop Idol Nick Broyd, who also teaches with the group. Classes last an hour and take place at seven locations around the city; those interested are encouraged to book ahead as places fill up quickly.

HOOPING MAD: CLASSES ARE £40 FOR A SIX-WEEK COURSE. FFI: WWW.HOOPINGMAD.CO.UK OR HOOPINGMAD@HOTMAIL.CO.UK

venuemagazine

fitness_restore.indd 7

FFI: CALL ZITA ON 07970 988128 OR WWW.ZESTBOOTCAMP.CO.UK

SECONDS OUT… ● Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee and relieve all that work-related stress by pounding seven bells out of a poor defenseless punch bag.

Whether you want to get into boxing big time, or just lose some weight and build muscle, West Country Boxing’s Adult BoxFit class will teach you the basic techniques and improve your fitness with circuit training, bag work, running and skipping. There are sessions five days a week and a one-off fee of £5 for those wanting to a taster. After that, non-members can drop by for £7.

WEST COUNTRY BOXING 40 THOMAS ST, ST AGNES, BRISTOL, BS2 9LL. FFI: 0117 949 6699 OR WWW.WESTCOUNTRYBOXING.COM

january 2012 // 7

12/16/2011 3:26:35 PM

Ye Jo ars in M jo n em i o m nin w be on g an rs f fo hi r a th ee d p g ny f a et D m or n em £ d yo ea be 20 fi ur l 2 rsh .1 rst 01 ip 2 2

N

• 25 metre pool heated to 30 degrees • Family Discount • Lane Swimming • Pool Parties • Swimming Lessons • Variety of Inclusive Classes • Fitness Centre

ew

Sports Club for all!

01225 721116

8 // january 2012

p8.indd 8

venuemagazine

12/19/2011 12:49:38 PM

resolutionstrainer talk

Let’s get personal…

Personal training is considered the most effective way to get on a youfocused fast-track path to fitness. But is for it everyone and is it worth the money? Joe Spurgeon meets a trainer and trainee to find out.

THE TRAINER

NEIL MACSWEEN ● I have been a personal trainer since

February 2011. I’ve played many sports regularly since a young age as well as martial arts, judo, ju-jitsu, kickboxing and kung fu. I also enjoy cycling and running.

My services are accessible for everyone of any age and I can help build programmes during pregnancy or for those suffering osteoporosis, arthritis, diabetes or cardiovascular diseases. My services and prices are specially tailored to each individual client, their budget and their goal.

I do personal training, nutritional consultations, lifestyle coaching and I specialise in body fat loss [healthy “weight loss”] and sports improvement. I meet clients at the venue of their choice – home, work, public parks – and most sessions are generally one hour long. My rate before discount is £30 per hour and on average I see my clients once per week.

With personal training, during the first weeks, you’ll see improvements in flexibility as well as better technique, better breathing, you’ll feel stronger and you’ll notice fat loss.

If you suffer from pain, like backache, you’ll quickly feel relief from that, too.

In a gym, people often design themselves a poorly constructed programme and end up creating a bad posture or injure themselves and lose focus and motivation. Personal training is applied with a full focus on the individual: encouragement, advice, trying new things and keeping safe.

My five tips for getting fit during 2012? 1.

Make a habit to exercise every week; 2. Eat sufficient protein two hours after exercising so the body “repairs” itself; 3. Pick up healthy daily habits: walk as much as possible, stretch regularly; 4. Eat three balanced (rich in fruit and vegetables, reduced in fat and refined carbohydrates, avoid ready-meals, use common sense...) meals every day; 5. For weight loss, while exercising, drink water or flavoured hypertonic drinks (fast hydration and no sugars – carbohydrates at 0%) and avoid sugary drinks (so called isotonic drinks with fast hydration and fast sugar replenishment).

What the mind conceives, it can achieve!

NEIL MACSWEEN RUNS RAINBOW FITNESS. FFI: 07817 856721 OR WWW. RAINBOWFITNESS.ORG

venuemagazine

fitness_restore.indd 9

THE TRAINEE

GILL COCKWELL

s off the Gill Cockwell show with benefits of working ve Da r personal traine Concannon (below)

● In my life, I have been both very fit and very unfit. As a kid I did all the usual stuff – ballet, gymnastics, even karate. I’ve done all the classes, tried all the fads: aerobics, step, pilates, yoga, ballroom dancing and boxercise.

Initially, I decided to use a personal trainer out of desperation. It seemed that the exact moment I hit 30, it immediately became harder to maintain my figure. I felt lethargic and lacked motivation. I’d had a really busy time at work and I just hadn’t been able to fit in any exercise. I was despondent, depressed and needed a push to get out of my rut. I’d also booked a holiday to Las Vegas and it was important for me to feel confident and comfortable in a bikini.

When I met [personal trainer] Dave Concannon, he wasn’t scary, but he was tough when he needed to be! He has a really sunny disposition. He knocks on my door at 6.30am when it’s dark and drizzly but he’ll be smiling and saying “Aren’t we lucky Gill? It’s a beautiful day, everyone else is in bed and we are out here in the park watching the sun come up. Lush in’t it!?” It’s contagious.

We do hill runs, sprints, squats, lunges, press-ups, sit-ups, tricep dips, bicep curls – we use hardly any equipment and concentrate a lot on technique.

Sometimes it’s hard to get up early but the time goes so quickly and I feel great for the rest of the day. It’s totally worth the effort.

I noticed results fairly quickly. I felt far more toned and my clothes were looser.

I had more energy and I began to look forward to my exercise sessions. Other people began to notice too.

When I don’t feel like exercising, Dave reminds me: “You never regret exercising and you always feel better afterwards.” This is absolutely true!

Dave charges £45 an hour. I look at it as a night out. I suppose it costs me a little more some months but I get value for my money and there is no denying the results!

GILL COCKWELL (WWW.GILLYWOO.COM) TRAINS WITH DAVE CONCANNON (FFI: 07970 193591 OR WWW.DAVEPT.CO.UK)

january 2012 // 9

12/16/2011 3:27:12 PM

10 // january 2012

p10.indd 10

venuemagazine

12/19/2011 10:27:14 AM

resolutionsTHE GyM Directory

THE GYM DIRECTORY Joe Spurgeon and Sarah Ashworth guide you through the jungle of gymnasiums, leisure centres and sports complexes in Bristol and Bath.

BANNATYNE’S HEALTH CLUB AND SPA BRISTOL

Tell me more: Owned by the Dragon’s Den bloke, it’s the UK’s largest independent health club operator with 61 clubs across England.

Where: 80 Redland Close, Bristol, BS6 6AG When: 7am-10.30pm Mon-Fri, 8.30am-9pm Sat-Sun. Special features: 20m swimming pool, aerobic studio, personal training, spinning studio, steam, sauna and spa, sunbed facilities and Sensory Spa offering holistic treatments.

The Café Bar Restaurant has a specially designed health-conscious menu broken down into relevant food groups.

Classes: A whopping 82 per week including a gentler and lower impact 50+ workout designed to strengthen and tone the whole body with aqua aerobics in the pool.

Membership: Ranges from £35-£60 for six- or 12-month memberships. Free tours available.

New year treats: Salsa and Aqua-Zumba classes starting in January.

FFI: 0117 942 5805 OR WWW.BANATYNE.CO.UK

BS7 SPORTS AND FITNESS CLUB

Tell me more: The one up by the Glouctestershire Cricket Club in Bristol.

Where: The County Ground, Nevil Rd, Bristol, BS7 9EJ When: 7.30am-10pm Mon-Thur, 7.30am-9pm Fri, 9am-7pm Sat, 9am-8pm Sun. Special features: Tennis, squash, saunas, personal training and downloadable exercise programmes are available, plus you get to see all those top cricketers work out. Phwoar!

There's plenty of room at Nuffield Health, Fitness and Wellbeing Centre Classes: 22 per week (mostly evenings) including boxercise, yoga, pilates, spinning, circuits, body conditioning and mums, bums and tums.

Membership: £33/month plus £30 joining free (less for student/joint memberships or if you pay annually).

New year treats: All BS7 gym members are given free membership of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club, which allows entry to all group stage home games in the Twenty20 cup, one-day leagues and the County Championship. You’ll see the players train, so why not watch them perform?

FFI: 0117 910 8000/8017 OR WWW.BS7GYM. CO.UK

MONKTON SPORTS CLUB

Run! Run like the wind! venuemagazine

fitness_restore.indd 11

Tell me more: Just two miles from the centre of Bath, lies this lovely little sports club with gorgeous, sprawling views of the surrounding Midford Valley in the grounds of Monkton Combe School.

Where: Monkton Leisure, Monkton Combe School, Bath, BA2 7HG When: Opens at 6.30-10.30am every morning; from 5-9.30pm main.

Special features: 25m indoor pool, fully equipped gym, dance studio, popular swim school, holiday activities for kids (aged 4-14, perfect solutions for working parents); the nearby bookable indoor sports facility, the Knight Sports Centre, also allows for basketball, badminton, hockey, football and gymnastics.

Classes: As part of the gym membership there are also 12 free classes/week including pilates, aerobics, stretch and tone and hydrofit.

Membership: After a joining fee of £30

(individuals), £40 (couples), £50 (families – two adults, two children), monthly fees of £33 (individual), £54 (couples), £15 (juniors), £20.25 (concs), £22 (NUS), £70 (family) with annual discounts available too.

New year treats: A specially discounted 2012 membership will be available from Jan. FFI: 01225 721116 OR WWW. MONKTONCOMBESCHOOL.COM

NUFFIELD HEALTH FITNESS & WELLBEING CENTRE

Tell me more: That lovely-looking one at the top of Park Street.

Where: Pavilion, Queens Rd, Bristol, BS8 1SQ When: 6.30am-10pm Mon-Fri, 8am-8pm Sat-Sun. Special features: Complimentary towels, on-site GP, weekly seminars, nutritionists, relaxation treatments, personal training, swimming pool, sauna and steam rooms. Walk-in health clinic with weight management programme, physiologists, physiotherapists and health assessments.

Classes: 60+ a week. Body balance – a fusion of yoga, pilates and tai chi performed to music – can help with flexibility and posture. The body jam sessions are also hugely popular.

Price: Memberships range from £55 to £75.

What you get: Access to all of the facilities and discounted rates for physiotherapy and health assessments New year treats: A clinically developed health MOT and personalised action plan plus one month’s free membership and a rewards package that includes personal training to keep you motivated.

FFI: 0117 925 2538 OR WWW. NUFFIELDHEALTH.COM ➜

january 2012 // 11

12/16/2011 3:29:11 PM

p12.indd 1

12/19/2011 10:28:30 AM

resolutionsTHE gym directory LADYZONE

Tell me more: A whole gym designed especially for and only available to women.

Non-aggressive atmosphere with ladies of all ages and sizes.

Where: 180 Henleaze Rd, Bristol, BS9 4NE When: Mon-Wed 9am-8pm, Thur 9am6.30pm, Fri/Sat/Sun 9am-1pm.

Special features: No-mirror policy.

Classes: None, but women are welcome anytime, no booking required, for their own circuit training.

Price: A range, but a maximum monthly membership of £29.50.

What you get: Use of the whole gym at any time.

The outdoor facilities are second to none at Clifton College Fitness Centre FFI: 0117 329 4642 OR WWW.LADYZONE. CO.UK

OTIUM HEALTH AND LEISURE CLUB

Going for gold!

You might have already spotted this, but in 2012, some small-time international carnival of sport and athletics will take place in Britain. In fact, for lots of reasons, 2012 will be the year when everyone’s getting in shape so why not set your fitness goals on the Olympics themselves?

Olympic/Paralympic sport charity Gold Challenge and Bath and NE Somerset Council are giving you the chance to compete in the Olympic Stadium (pictured) and help London 2012 prepare for the greatest show on earth.

On April 1, Gold Challenge will be hosting a test event for 20,000 people in the Olympic Stadium and you have the chance to take part through: The 2012km Challenge – in a team or on your own an aggregate distance of 2012km by one or more of the following sports: running, swimming, cycling, walking, rowing, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing or horse-riding; or The Olympic Sport Challenge – take on Olympic and Paralympic sports by trying something new or pushing the boundaries in the sport you love. There are 30 to choose from and the Gold Challenge Sports Finder will enable you to find venues local to you.

There are lots of ways you can win the chance to take to take part in a 100m race or the Gold Challenge Stadium Parade, you simply need to register (for free) and get started. Visit www.goldchallenge.org/ bathnes or call 0207 099 8895 to find out more and register.

venuemagazine

fitness_restore.indd 13

Tell me more: Part of the Thistle Grand Hotel in central Bristol. The pool is closed to children at certain periods for those wanting a bit of peace and quiet.

Where: 53 Broad St, Bristol, BS1 2EL When: 6.30am-10pm Mon-Thur, 6.30am-9pm Fri, 8am-8pm weekends.

Special features: Swimming pool, fully equipped gym, jacuzzi, sunbed, sauna and steam room.

Classes: None.

Price: Membership from £9.99 per month with no tie-in period.

What you get: A further 15% off food and beverages and 20% off beauty treatments.

New year treats: No joining fee in January and February.

FFI: 0117 927 6335 OR BRISTOL@OTIUM. THISTLE.CO.UK

DAVID LLOYD

Tell me more: Probably the biggest range of facilities and the longest opening hours in the area.

Where: Greystoke Ave, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol, BS10 6AZ (also at Long Ashton) When: 6.30am-11.30pm, seven days a week.

Special features: Great for racquetheads, with tennis, badminton and squash courts.

Also a crèche on site and both an indoor and outdoor pool.

Classes: Ballroom dancing for foxtrot fans and jukari training (hardcore stretching with a big elastic band) for those looking to build core strength and bodytone.

Price: Around 60 different membership packages available to suit you! Most popular one is the regular Health and Fitness Membership.

What you get: £49 a month gets you use of all facilities (except the racquet sports) and free classes at both peak and non-peak times.

FFI: 0845 125 7120 OR WWW.DAVIDLLOYD. CO.UK

PHASEONE

Tell me more: Emphasis is on friendliness, informality and hard work.

Where: 7-9 Comfortable Place, Upper Bristol Rd, Bath, BA1 3AJ When: Tue-Thur 7am-9.30pm, Mon & Fri 9am-9,30pm, weekends 9am-6pm.

Special features: Two gyms, full cardio and weights.

Classes: Capoeira – a dance/music/combat/ art mishmash – and street dance open to adults and kids.

Price: £50 joining fee. Full peak for a year at £33/month; half year at £35/month. Threemonth taster £37/month. Cheaper off-peak membership available.

What you get: Unlimited gym use, full induction and programme, classes, sauna, discounts on treatments and specialist classes. Offer available for first 50 new members.

New year treats: £25/month deal (for 12 months) for unlimited use of facilities with no joining fee.

FFI: 01225 461463 OR WWW.PHASE-ONE. CO.UK

BATH YMCA HEALTH AND FITNESS SUITE

Tell me more: As a charity, all surplus funds go directly to charitable work around the city.

Where: International House, Broad Street Place, Bath, BA1 5LH When: Mon-Fri 6.30am-10pm, weekends 8.30am-7pm.

Special features: Views across the hills of Bath to distract.

Classes: Aerobic to tae kwon do and a lot in between. Pilates on a ball, running club, henparties with belly dancing, pole fitness and street dance.

Price: No joining fee. 12 months peak £31/ month or off-peak £24/month.

What you get: Full gym usage, classes and access to sauna and solariums.

New year treats: Short-term three-month memberships available if you pay upfront, casual gym costs £7/session.

FFI: 01225 325913 OR WWW.BATHYMCA. CO.UK

ABSOLUTE HEALTH

Tell me more: They’ve just expanded by an addional 2,000 square feet. Cor. Where: 21-23 Oxford St, Temple Quay,➜

january 2012 // 13

12/16/2011 3:30:19 PM

resolutionsTHE gym directory Bristol, BS2 0QT When: Mon-Fri 7am-8pm, Sat 9am-3pm. Sun closed.

Special features: Central business location, good parking.

Classes: Zumba, yoga, pilates, body blast and bootcamp are all on the menu.

Price: Very cheap at £19.99/month.

What you get: Access at peak and non-peak times and access to all classes.

New year treats: Join online for £19.99/ month with no contract or joining fee.

FFI: 0117 955 5258 OR WWW.ABSOLUTEHEALTH.CO.UK

FITNESS FIRST

Tell me more: Down by the waterside and elsewhere in Bristol and Bath.

Where: Explore Lane, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5TY; 5-10 James Street West, Bath, BA1 2BX; The Venue, Merlin Rd, Bristol, BS10 7TT; Aspects Leisure Park, Kingswood, Bristol, BS15 9LA When: Varies depending on gym, but always from early morning into the evening seven days a week.

Special features: Team classes working on strength, cardio, abs and core.

Classes: Boxing, zumba, spin, kickboxing, yoga.

Price: 12 months off-peak £14.99/month (peak available from £45.95/month).

What you get: Off-peak use from 8am-5pm.

New year treats: Grab a free one-day pass at the venue.

FFI: 0117 937 7070 OR WWW.FITNESSFIRST. CO.UK

FITNESS FOR LESS

Tell me more: Opposite Nelson St car park.

Where: The Pithay, All Saints St, Bristol, BS1 2LZ When: Mon-Thur 6.30am-10pm, Fri 6.30am-9pm, Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-6pm.

Special features: Ladies-only gym available, beauty, tanning and nail salon on site.

Classes: The usual, plus Latino party step, pole kitten dance, street dance and old school aerobics.

Price: Basic membership £14.99/month offpeak (the first instalment of £39.95 includes joining fee), day pass £7.

What you get: Access to whole of the gym at your membership time.

FFI: WWW.FITNESS4LESS.CO.UK

CLIFTON COLLEGE FITNESS CENTRE

Tell me more: Modern facilities set in historic, leafy grounds.

Where: Guthrie Rd, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3EZ When: Mon-Fri 6.30am-10pm, Sat 6.30am-7pm, Sun 8am-4pm (some periods are shared with the college).

Special features: 25m pool, badminton, squash, football courts, tennis courts and personal trainers.

Classes: Fitness circuits, pilates, troop circuits, kickboxing and self-defence, ballroom and Latin dance and more.

Price: Joining fee of £40, then £39.50/month, individual, couple and family annual memberships available.

What you get: Access to the facilities and classes at member times.

FFI: 0117 315 7678 OR WWW. CLIFTONCOLLEGEUK.COM

14 // january 2012

fitness_restore.indd 14

EVERYONE, ACTIVE ● Sign up for an Everyone Active card and you can visit any public centre around Bristol (the five main ones are below). Monthly (£42) and annual memberships (same price but two months free) include unlimited use of the gym, group exercise classes and swimming pools.

Many of Bath’s facilities are run by Aquaterra (full membership is £44/ month, no contract), who offer all sorts of individually tailored membership packages and chuck in up to six one-to-one gym sessions plus a T-shirt, towel and water bottle. For details and locations see: www.aquaterra.org. Some Bristol City Council-run leisure/sports centres and gyms are below (ffi on all, see www.everyoneactive.com).

ST PAULS COMMUNITY SPORTS ACADEMY

Where: Newfoundland Circus, St Pauls, Bristol, BS2 9NH When: Mon-Fri 9am-10.30pm, Sat 9am-4.30pm, Sun 9am-9.30pm.

Special features: Astroturf pitch very close the city centre and special kids’ classes. No pool.

Classes: Step, circuits, family (!) karate, aerobics, cycling, pilates, yoga, dance active, football.

FFI: 0117 377 3405

EASTON LEISURE CENTRE

Where: Thrissel St, Easton, Bristol, BS5 0SW When: Mon-Fri 7am-10.30pm, Sat 7.30am-9pm, Sun 7.30am-10pm.

Special features: Children’s activities and exercise, wellbeing classes and swimming pool.

Classes: Yoga, forever fit, circuit training, line dancing, tai-chi, pilates, cycling, body pump, core, karate, netball, cardio tennis, Cuba tone, aqua fitness.

FFI: 0117 903 1628

HENBURY LEISURE CENTRE

Where: Avonmouth Way, Henbury, Bristol, BS10 7NG When: Mon-Fri 7.15am-10pm, Sat 7.15am-8pm, Sun 7.30am-8pm.

Special features: Swimming pool and pre- and post-natal exercise classes.

Classes: Aerobics, pilates, punch workshop, core, cycling, forever fit, pump, step, karate, yoga, football skills, zumba, box circuit, ju-jitsu and aqua aerobics.

FFI: 0117 353 2555

HORFIELD LEISURE CENTRE

Where: Dorian Rd, Horfield, Bristol, BS7 0XW When: Mon-Fri 6.30am-10.30pm, Sat 8am-10pm, Sun 8am-10.30pm.

Special features: Swimming pool, 50+ activates, trampolining, badminton, kids’ classes, pregnancy yoga and birth preparation classes.

Classes: Step, boxercise, pump,

Sharpen your swim ski lls at Horfield Leisure Centr e cycling, core, fit ball, toning, aerobics, body balance, zumba, Amazonian workout, aqua aerobics, kettlebells, pilates, yoga, pole, better breathing, line dancing, gladiator training and hot yoga.

FFI: 0117 903 1643

KINGSDOWN SPORTS CENTRE

Where: Portland St, Kingsdown, Bristol, BS2 8HL When: Mon-Thur 9am-10.30pm, Fri 9am-9.45pm, Sat 8am-6pm, Sun 9am8pm.

Special features: Children’s activity programme during school holidays and total gymnastics.

Classes: Cuba tone, cycling, aerobics, pilates, total-toning, pump, core, forever fit, junior lau gar kung fu, dance fitness, bike active, yoga, kempo ju jutsu, kickboxing.

FFI: 0117 903 1633

venuemagazine

12/16/2011 3:30:52 PM

The Bath School of Shiatsu & Yoga One day workshop

Sunday 5th February

3 weekend foundation starting 25th & 26th February

For More information 01225 859209 www.bssy.co.uk

Fit-Club Getting you real results

Com sooning

Bristol’s newest Personal Training and kettlebell studio Offering 1-2-1 sessions, small group training and classes Looking to kick start your new year with a bang?

Time to lose weight, tone up and get fit?

Want to do it all and have fun too?

Our friendly, motivational and supportive staff will coach you towards your goals however big or small they may be.

We also run special bride to be packages starting in January.

For more information call or email Tom 07949808602 fit-club@live.com venuemagazine

p15.indd 15

january 2012 // 15

12/20/2011 2:25:12 PM

THE HOME OF DANCE MOVEMENT PSYCHOTHERAPY IN THE SOUTH WEST OFFERS ACCREDITED PART TIME COURSES IN DANCE MOVEMENT PSYCHOTHERAPY

6 Day Introduction Course Dates to be advised.

INTERVIEWING NOW FOR SEPTEMBER 2012 INTAKE

3 year MASTERS PROGRAMME validated by Canterbury Christ Church University, Please see website for details NATIONAL CERTIFICATE IN DANCE MOVEMENT AND THE THERAPEUTIC PROCESS (1 YEAR BTEC Edexcel Award) - Interviewing now for September start.

Ffi: Dance Voice, Quaker Meeting House, Wedmore Vale, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 5HX Tel/fax: 0117 953 2055 e-mail: admin@dancevoice.org.uk www.dancevoice.org.uk

www.venue.co.uk www.foliomagazine.co.uk 16 // january 2012

p16.indd 16

venuemagazine

12/20/2011 2:26:44 PM

resolutionscourses

Top of the classes Resolved to pick up a new skill, change your career or just do something a bit different with your leisure time? Simon Fry looks at the hottest options for learning and doing in 2012.

ART & CREATIVE

From drawing to dance, felt-making to floristry Rhythm nation

Brazil comes to Bristol in spring when ace local dance teacher and performer Claudia Da Silva starts another of her justly popular 10-week Samba Rio carnival dance courses.

Kicking off in the same month as the world’s most famous – and eye-catching – outbreak of booty shaking, Claudia’s classes run at the Willow Dance Studio, James St, St Werburghs from 7.30-9pm every Wednesday from 1 Feb. Classes are suitable for beginners, and students will progress to intermediate level via the gradual introduction of more advanced techniques and movements en route to (hopefully) a performance at course’s end. Price £80 (£25 deposit required). Please book in advance as spaces are limited.

FFI: AFROSAMBA@GMAIL.COM OR WWW. AFRO-SAMBA-BRISTOL.CO.UK

One-off wonder

If there’s something missing from your life, you’re likely to find it in 2012 amid Hawkwood College’s extraordinarily diverse offerings. Whether you’re seeking personal or professional development, a creative outlet via arts, crafts or music or even spiritual nourishment, the college and its beautiful grounds provide the vibe in which you can explore your interests, passions and joys.

Courses include the magic of Tolkien, energy healing, soap making, joyful loving, the Rosen method and ‘tending the hearth’, an exploration of the ancient tradition of house clearing focusing on work with ley/dragon

The Bristol Drawing School

Whatever it is you're looking for, find it at Hawkwood College lines and underground streams, learning from an Irish wise-woman. There’s nowhere like Hawkwood!

FFI: 01453 759034, INFO@ HAWKWOODCOLLEGE.CO.UK OR WWW. HAWKWOODCOLLEGE.CO.UK

Get Engaged in 2012

Bath Theatre Royal’s Engage programme, supported by the estate of the late actress Margot Boyd, is a ground-breaking initiative that helps provide non-professionals with rare access to working directors, actors, stage managers and other theatre professionals through a series of workshops, extended courses, discussion groups and performance opportunities. January’s one-act playwriting weekend provides the tools of the trade to those with an idea for a play (September brings a festival of one-act plays – yours might get chosen). A sound design course explores how a play gets its sound and music, while a monthly theatre review group, led by Venue's own editor Joe Spurgeon, gives theatre fans the chance to see top notch local theatre (at a considerable discount) and swap opinions, reviews and even write-ups in a discussion afterwards. March sees a 90-minute Stomp workshop while regular post-show discussions, attended by 1,700 people last year, continue in 2012.

FFI: 01225 823475, ENGAGE@ THEATREROYAL.ORG.UK OR WWW. THEATREROYAL.ORG.UK

Buzzing at Backwell!

“It’s never too late to learn something new” is the lesson coming from Backwell School,

venuemagazine

courses.indd 17

where Monday and Tuesday evenings offer 11 cool courses. All are leisure-based, with an emphasis on learning in an enjoyable, supportive environment with minimal paperwork. Nurture the inner author via short story writing, become a sharpshooter in photography or learn nifty nutrition in healthy eating. Beautify your (or someone else’s) home by taking tuition in stained glass, screen printing, floristry for fun or felt-making or ensure you get their good side with some portraiture skills. Learn modern languages – Spanish, Italian or French – or travel back in time to discover European art history.

FFI: PLEASE CONTACT COMMUNITY ARTS MANAGER KATHY PATTERSON ON 01275 465942, KPATTERSON@BACKWELLSCHOOL. NET OR WWW.BACKWELLSCHOOL.NET

Top draw teaching

Many of us have fond memories of a teacher who got the best out of us back in the day so when Bristol Drawing School students describe their tutors as “excellent, brilliant… very gifted and experienced”, you know they’ll help realise your pencil and paint potential.

The school is located in Clifton’s prestigious RWA, which made one student feel “more part of the Bristol art scene”. Other comments included: “What a brilliant day! Thoroughly had fun and went home with inspiration”; “I enjoyed the course a great deal… this is a very valuable resource for Bristol.” Courses and workshops planned for 2012 already include life drawing (including drop-in sessions), watercolours and 3D figure drawing as well as portrait with oils and still life with oils. New➜

january 2012 // 17

12/16/2011 3:33:00 PM

18 // january 2012

p18.indd 18

venuemagazine

12/20/2011 2:27:49 PM

resolutionscourses Mais out! Learn the language of love with Alliance Français

there is something for everyone. You can choose General English (a fun, practical course to improve communication), Business English (focusing on real-life business situations and vocabulary) or you can take a Cambridge exam (FCE or CAE). BLC students have proceeded to work or study locally and abroad, with improving their English being an important step on that journey. One Dutch student says: “I’m really happy with my exam results and they provide motivation to develop my English. Thanks for the good course, I really enjoyed the lessons.” Course dates in 2012 are: 10 Jan-15 Mar, 3 Apr-6 June and 18 Sept-6 Dec. FFI: 0117 929 2233, ENQ@BLC-ENGLISH.CO. UK OR WWW.BLC-ENGLISH.CO.UK

Uni for you

courses will be added so please check the website.

FFI: 0117 973 5129, INFO@ DRAWINGSCHOOL.ORG.UK OR WWW. DRAWINGSCHOOL.ORG.UK

BRAIN TRAINING Expand you mind...

Lose the snooze…

Your starter for 10 – or should that be ’12?: what connects Russell Brand, Moby, Sheryl Crow and David Lynch? Transcendental meditation, that’s what. Discover the benefits of this effortless mental technique at Transcendental Meditation Bristol (TMB).

Weekly introductory talks explain its benefits, with students using it to combat stress and find deep creativity. TMB teacher Patrice Gladwin says: “It brings more energy and greater clarity of mind, the brain is more orderly, life gets easier. It also has a tremendous physical affect – the whole body is galvanized and students say they wake up before the alarm rings. It gives access to a human being’s fourth state of consciousness, the body becomes very relaxed and you feel fresher and younger.”

FFI: 0117 914 7127 OR WWW.TMBRISTOL. ORG.UK

Say ‘Bonjour!’ to Alliance Française

The outlook’s bright at Alliance Française, which goes into 2012 never having had more students on its books. What’s more, despite London nabbing the Olympics off Paris a few years back, the entente has never been more cordiale, with many students learning French to communicate with a French squeeze, spouse or grandchild. The group’s affordable, friendly French tuition (taken in tutors’ homes) is perfect for those wishing to spread bonhomie, with classes starting the week beginning 9 Jan. More learning-through-

venuemagazine

courses.indd 19

drama starts in March, when another winetasting evening will also be staged by an expert oenologue. Budding Gallic gastronomes can feed their brain and stomach via a bijou cookery course while the group’s informative and fun blog and Facebook page delight followers with news, riddles and fascinating French facts.

FFI: 0117 924 7809 OR WWW.AFBRISTOL. ORG.UK, FACEBOOK: HTTP://BIT.LY/AFBFACEBOOK, BLOG: HTTP://AFBRISTOL. BLOGSPOT.COM

New year, new outlook

When things go wrong we’re often told to be ‘be philosophical’, but how about studying philosophy in readiness for what 2012 has in store? The Bath and Bristol School of Philosophy provides courses in both cities for those interested in wisdom rather than theory – practical wisdom to deal with oneself and the world around. Direct, systematic teaching conveys more than recorded lectures, and learning is furthered in relaxed, sometimes vigorous but always friendly discussion and questioning in the company of interested and interesting people. A 10-week course starts in Bath on 17 Jan and in Bristol on 19 Jan. FFI: WWW.BATHANDBRISTOLPHILOSOPHY. ORG; BATH: 07751 959759 OR PETERDERBYSHIRE@SUPANET.CO.UK; BRISTOL: 01225 722136 OR HAYDON. BRADSHAW@ZEN.CO.UK

Rediscover the joy of reading and writing at Bristol University! Over the course of the year it offers everything from free hour-long lectures, talks and workshops to one-day investigations of writers (Jane Austen and Bob Dylan in February, Byron in March), forms (short stories in March) and themes (dreamvisions also in March). Short courses lasting 8-10 weeks cover creative fiction, ‘into the unknown’ and further creative writing, with a course exploring 20th-century women’s writing staged one afternoon monthly for three months. Those finding their love of learning unputdownable can consider the 15-week Reading English Literature course staged on Tuesday evenings, which is perfect preparation for the part-time BA English Literature and Community Engagement degree. Attendance for that is one night weekly over six years, making the degree open to the wider community. Expect to study subjects like Shakespeare, early English love poetry and the contemporary novel while spreading the literary word – literally – to community initiatives like the Bristol Drugs Project, the Big Issue or the National Autistic Society.

FFI: 0117 928 8924, ENGLISH-LIFELONG@ BRISTOL.AC.UK OR WWW.BRISTOL.AC.UK/ ENGLISH/PART-TIME ➜

Speak English!

With Bristol being a port and all, people have been arriving here from overseas for centuries. Here in 2012 it boasts thousands of residents originally from Europe and beyond for whom learning English would improve their prospects. Bristol Language Centre provides a wide range of courses for speakers of English as a second language. With evening courses to fit around your busy schedule,

Get a bit of Bob at Bristol Uni january 2012 // 19

12/16/2011 3:33:44 PM

TRANSCENDENTAL MEDITATION™

“David Lynch calls daily TM a human being thing… but I think it’s super-human! … zero stress and 100% creative energy!”

Kitty Tebbetts For a free Introductory Talk at the Bristol TM Centre call 0117 914 7127 Visit: www.tmbristol.org.uk www.davidlynchfoundation.org

SHIATSU Shiatsu for deep healing and personal Transformation Three Weekend Foundation Course This practical shiatsu foundation course, that includes a full body routine, will give you a very good grounding in this powerful healing art. All courses are taught in Bristol.

Next Foundation Course for 2012 28/29 April 19/20 May 02/03 June • Three Year Practitioner Training • One Year Course Bristol School of Shiatsu PO Box 419, Bridgwater TA6 9ES Tel: 0844 335 0573 Email: info@shiatsubristol.co.uk

www.shiatsubristol.co.uk 20 // january 2012

p20.indd 20

venuemagazine

12/21/2011 10:09:07 AM

resolutionscourses Grown-up thinking

Get flexible with the Bath School of Shiatsu

If your new year resolutions include meeting new people, getting fit and learning something new, then you need look no further than the Adult Learning Service.

The service offers all manner of different courses and you can find details of the full range in the ALS course guide that’s freely available in your local library.

The courses have been designed to get you motivated during the winter months, so why not try your hand at jewellery making, life drawing or soapstone carving? Alternatively, you can learn how to edit videos or build your own website, get your tongue around French, Spanish or Italian in readiness for your summer hols, perfect your bread- and pastrymaking skills, practise tai chi and yoga or learn how to give a massage. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There are hundreds of other courses available across Bristol – and since all classes are small and friendly, you’re sure to make new friends as well as learn something too.

FFI: PICK UP A COURSE LEAFLET IN YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY, VISIT BRISTOL.GOV.UK/ ADULTLEARNING OR CALL 0117 903 8844.

CAREERS

Find a new vocation...

Here’s the rub…

When thinking of a new career it’s important to consider who your potential customers will be. Given that everyone – on Earth – has a body, training in holistic massage at the Bristol College of Massage & Bodywork (BCMB) is a no-brainer. Its well-grounded training programme includes effective body use to make the massage easy, fluent and creative, as well as the dynamic, hands-on teaching of anatomy, physiology and pathology. Regular introductory workshops are staged monthly, with BCMB also providing comprehensive professional training programmes as the perfect foundation for a massage career. Places remain on the next course starting 25 Feb, which leads to the benchmark-setting MTI Level 4 Diploma. Beyond this, advanced

Wessex Counselling Service

courses are run for qualified therapists to enhance their skills, and full details of all BCMB courses can be had at its open evening on 11 Jan (6.30-8.30pm) at the Alma Vale Centre.

FFI: 0117 377 1201 OR WWW. BRISTOLMASSAGE.CO.UK

validated standards. All courses are nationally accredited with psychodynamic counselling’s leading national training bodies. Take one small step to something different in 2012.

FFI: 01373 453355 OR WWW. WESSEXCOUNSELLINGSERVICE.CO.UK

One small step for you…

It’s happy 100th birthday to shiatsu, a traditional form of bodywork originating in Japan in 1912. Here in 2012, the Bath School of Shiatsu & Yoga (BSSY) is staging an introductory workshop on 5 Feb to provide an insight into this very adaptable treatment.

BSSY was itself founded in 2000 by Frank Davis, who has studied and taught shiatsu since 1987 and yoga from 1984. A three-year professional shiatsu training programme – leading to nationally recognised practitioner qualifications is the school’s main focus.

Students also learn yoga techniques in depth alongside western anatomy, physiology and counselling skills in classes limited to a maximum of 14. The course’s flexible nature gives you scope to take a break from tuition if you wish. Courses are generally held at Still Point, Broad Street Place in central Bath beside the YMCA. FFI: 01225 859209 OR WWW.BSSY.CO.UK

…could mean a giant leap for someone else.

Have you always been meaning to change career or do something more worthwhile? If your present occupation is less than fulfilling, consider taking a counselling course at Wessex Counselling Service. All courses are part-time so require little adjustment to your present lifestyle. This non-profit organisation has provided a counselling service and counselling training since 1983, offering rigorous, regulated training of the highest

A century of shiatsu

Find your (Dance) Voice

The principle that someone’s thinking and feeling patterns are reflected in their movement lies behind dance movement psychotherapy, a process facilitating emotional, mental, social, physical and spiritual growth via dance and movement.

Dance Voice, the region’s leading dance movement psychotherapy centre, aims to provide accessible, affordable courses conveying an understanding of the arts as therapy to professionals. Its unique dance movement psychotherapy model is manifested in a one-year BTEC (Edexcel Award) course and a masters programme validated by Canterbury Christ Church ➜

venuemagazine

courses.indd 21

january 2012 // 21

12/16/2011 3:34:24 PM

resolutionscourses

Let cookery queen Ria spice up your life

in inspiring surroundings. What’s more, the government has just announced some generous bursaries helping high earners make the move from the boardroom to the classroom while taking care of mortgage payments and other commitments. Those with a first in subjects like physics, maths and modern languages benefit to the tune of £20,000 while those with a 2:1 get £12,000, with a 2:2 earning you £9,000. Places remain on 2012’s secondary intake and full details can be obtained via the university’s monthly drop-in open event. The next is on 7 Feb from 5-7pm at Bath Spa’s stunning Newton Park campus. As well as teacher training, the university is also known for its highly renowned postgrad courses, with an MA in business management just the ticket if you’re thinking of establishing your own company.

FFI: 01225 875875; TEACHING: TEACHING@ BATHSPA.AC.UK OR WWW.BATHSPA.AC.UK/ TEACHING; MA: ENQUIRIES@BATHSPA.AC.UK

For Pete’s sake!

University. The former recommences in September 2012, runs for 36 weeks over three terms and its major areas of investigation include Laban movement and dance as well as related arts. The next masters programme also starts in September 2012. It takes three years to complete, but you’ll feel the benefits long before that, as one student comments: “Training as a dance therapist at Dance Voice is helping me to forge links between mind and body, to facilitate both emotional and physical connections and to use these skills in a practice setting with clients where positive shifts in energy and awareness can occur.”

FFI: 0117 953 2055, ADMIN@DANCEVOICE. ORG.UK OR WWW.DANCEVOICE.ORG.UK

LIFESTYLE

Get yourself on track Out of the red (and into the black)

cost just £8.50 per hour and are in the comfort of your own kitchen so you’ve the convenience of knowing where utensils are.

Ria’s speciality will stick to your ribs on the bitterest winter evening. “My favourite is pork curry with a sticky, rich sauce... You can even add the bone during preparation, with the taste from the fat enhancing its flavour alongside black pepper or rocket chilis.”

Resistance is futile…

FFI: 07999 455242.

A matter of degrees

So you graduated with a dream degree a while back and when Christmas chillaxing you realised it’s currently going to waste? Maybe it could be put to the best possible use, teaching the citizens of tomorrow? Bath Spa University offers outstanding teacher training

This one’s a triple – if not quadruple – whammy! The lovely people at St Peter’s Hospice are inviting all to make it their new year’s resolution to declutter their wardrobes (or even pass on unwanted Christmas gifts) and donate to their local St Peter’s Hospice shop. Think about it – your bedroom gets a detox, you make space for clothes and things you might actually wear and need and, most importantly, you’d be helping raise funds for a very worthy cause. Now doesn’t that make you feel all warm and cosy? (More so than that Christmas jumper you know you’re never going to wear.) Donating is easy – you can drop items off at your local St Peter’s Hospice shop or arrange a free collection. If you say ‘yes’ to Gift Aid when donating, the St Peter’s people make an extra 25%. It’s all good!

FFI: WWW.STPETERSHOSPICE.ORG TO FIND YOUR LOCAL SHOP OR TO BOOK A COLLECTION. ➜

St Peter's Hospice: more fashionable than you might think

Start the year as you mean to go on by sorting out your finances. The Bristol Debt Advice Centre (a registered charity providing free services) has helped those in financial difficulties for over 21 years. These specialist advisers can help increase income, ensure essential bills and expenses are covered and improve your household budget. They can also advise on dealing with debts or finding the best energy tariffs as well as provide ongoing support with creditor negotiations.

Trustworthy, free help is at hand – you owe it to yourself to take it.

FFI: 0117 954 3990 OR WWW.BDAC.ORG.UK

Hot stuff for cold nights

Takeaway curries are a popular treat, but how much did you splash out on them in 2011?

How about saving money in 2012 and making your own? Local cookery expert Ria has spent a lifetime perfecting Indian cooking in her mum’s kitchen and offers friendly tuition so you can create your fave phaal, dream dhansak or just-right jalfrezi whenever you wish. Curries are versatile (all start with the same basis) and can incorporate the cheapest ingredients – even goat intestines! Lessons

22 // january 2012

courses.indd 22

venuemagazine

12/16/2011 3:35:30 PM

venuemagazine

p23.indd 23

january 2012 // 23

12/19/2011 10:41:32 AM

For a brochure and details of forthcoming courses please telephone The Clifton Practice 0117 317 9278 or simple visit our comprehensive website www.cpht.co.uk

24 // january 2012

p24.indd 24

venuemagazine

12/20/2011 2:31:54 PM

p25.indd 1

12/21/2011 10:10:18 AM

Happy New Year from Bristol Debt Advice Centre!

Improving your money management is one of the most positive changes you can make in 2012. So we suggest you make this your number one New Year’s resolution! Doesn’t sound too exciting we know but with the effects of the financial crisis and the ever increasing cost of living now is the perfect time to get organised. Remember that improving the way you manage your money can make all kinds of other options in the future become possible. Plus it’s chilly outside, so stay in the warm and sort out your finances!

BDAC’s Top 10 Money New Year Resolutions If you want to manage your money effectively in 2012 there are five key areas to keep an eye on: Making Ends Meet, Planning Ahead, Keeping Track, Choosing Products and Staying Informed.

Our top 10 Money New Year resolutions are positive steps designed to help you stick with them: 1. Review your income and spending – Work out your income and spending either monthly or weekly. You can do this by looking through bank statements, bills and receipts and categorising your spending into different groups. Work out annual or quarterly payments as monthly or weekly ones depending on how you do it. Give yourself an hour or more to do this and aim to have it done by the end of January 2012.

2. Maximise your income - if you receive benefits make sure you’re getting all that you’re entitled to. Can you rent out a room or save money? (see tips 7, 8 and 9) 3. Make a realistic Budget - Look at what you’re spending your money on and how much. What can you cut back on? Make a budget for each area of spending and stick to it.

4. Spend on Essentials first - Always make sure you pay your essentials like rent/mortgage, council tax, water, electricity, food and gas first. This will help you live within your means.

5. Maximise your savings - If you have any disposable income think about setting some aside as savings.

Compare savings accounts and options to see which ones have the best interest rate, open one up and set up a monthly direct debit from your current account.

6. Record your spending - Start recording what you spend in a notebook and review at the end of each month by checking against your bank account (you’ll be surprised at what you’ve spent money on and how much) 7. Save Money in easy ways - improve your energy efficiency, look for deals in the supermarket, check the price of things before you buy, shop around.

8. Re-visit your gas and electricity supplier - Do a switching exercise to find out if you could be saving money with another supplier. If you’re computer literate, on-line tariffs are often the cheapest. http://bit.ly/compareenergysuppliers

p26.indd 1

9. Re-visit your current packages - Shop around for the best deals on you internet, TV, landline and mobile packages, 10. Avoid unnecessary debt - taking out credit means you will pay more. If you can avoid it, do. Stick to your budget and save for bigger items where possible.

And… 11. Keep an eye on the financial news, tax rates change, as do benefits, it’s helpful to know what’s going on.

To help you fulfil our New Year resolutions, there’s lots of further help on-line. We’ve listed some links below that will help you with budgeting, dealing with debt, give information about benefits, saving energy and choosing financial products.

Helpful links: http://www.bdac.org.uk/ http://www.creditaction.org.uk/ https://www.mymoneysteps.org http://www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk/ http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/ http://www.turn2us.org.uk/ Do a switching exercise: http://bit.ly/compareenergysuppliers By sticking to the tips above we hope you can weather the economic crisis through 2012. However if you’re worried about debts that you’re unable to repay or are struggling to pay for food, rent or utility bills please don’t struggle alone.

Contact us on 0117 954 3990 to find out how we can help or visit our website for more details. We are a registered charity and all of our services are free. http://www.bdac.org.uk/

12/20/2011 2:33:53 PM

resolutionscourses VOLUNTEERING

Buddy, can you spare some time?

On call with the Samaritans

(Green) Gym’ll fix it

Time on your hands and (potentially) a bit handy? The BTCV Avon Midweek and Weekend Groups are for you! Meeting at various sites in Bristol, Bath and South Gloucestershire on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and alternate Saturdays, they’ll get you treeplanting, vegetation clearing, hedge-laying and more. Pick up skills in an inclusive, engaged environment by improving local places while working towards a more sustainable future. If you’re after trimming more than just the foliage, the BTCV’s Green Gym offers the chance to help you become physically and mentally healthier by participating in nature conservation activities which also improve your local surroundings.

There are currently five Green Gyms in the Avon area.

FFI: CLAIRE DINSDALE (BTCV AVON MIDWEEK AND WEEKEND PROJECT OFFICER/GREEN GYM PROJECT OFFICER) 07739 447995 OR C. DINSDALE@BTCV.ORG.UK

Listen… to save a life

Bath and District Samaritans are seeking new recruits: ordinary people (aged 18+) offering confidential emotional support to those experiencing feelings of distress and despair, including those feelings which can lead to suicide. Although no formal qualifications or experience are required, volunteers should be good listeners and allow people the time and space to explore their feelings. Initial training and a probationary period are followed by the opportunity to work in prisons and schools. Volunteering roles include answering telephone calls, as well publicity, fundraising and admin duties, while those with half-marathons or similar events planned for 2012 are invited to run them in aid of this vital cause.

FFI: 01225 429222.

SOFA so good!

The SOFA Project charity was founded in 1980 and is based in St Philips, Bristol. It’s

Cancer Research fundraising fun

venuemagazine

courses.indd 27

come a long way since the days when it operated a collection and distribution service for unwanted household furniture. While it still collects and delivers throughout the Bristol area, it has added an extensive white goods refurbishment facility and office furniture clearance and resale activity to its work. Volunteers who can identify with the project’s aims and have useful skills are always sought: those who can work on its transport service, those with experience of working on electrical appliances and those with retail skills ready to man the project’s St Philips or Knowle shops.

FFI: 0117 954 3565 OR TRACIEROBERTS@ SOFAPROJECT.ORG.UK

It’s (very) good to talk

Every 90 minutes, someone in the UK and Republic of Ireland takes their own life.

Want to do something about it, making

a massive difference while embracing a new challenge? Why not become a Bristol Samaritans volunteer? The Samaritans’ Bristol operation has 180 volunteers working every hour of every day to support people by phone, email, text or face-to-face. Only around 20% of callers are suicidal but all benefit immeasurably from a confidential non-judgemental place for people to explore their feelings. One Bristol volunteer says: “I volunteer because I know how important it is that people have the chance to talk.

It’s rewarding to make a difference by just listening. Our volunteers are from all walks of life and all ages and our strength is our diversity.”

FFI: WWW.BRISTOLSAMARITANS.ORG OR GO ALONG TO AN INFORMATION EVENING AT 37 ST NICHOLAS ST, BRISTOL, BS1 1TP, FROM 7.30-9PM ON THE FIRST MONDAY OF THE MONTH.

Resolve to help research

It’s a sobering thought that while survival rates for cancer have doubled in the last 40 years, one in three people will still get the disease at some point during their lifetime.

Cancer Research UK’s groundbreaking work, funded entirely by the public, will help ensure millions more people survive. You can be part of this work, joining a recently launched Bath group aiming to raise £5,000 to help fund vital research. It’s not all work, though, with a sociable environment ensuring you’ll meet many new people (potential squash partners, drinking buddies, even that special someone – who knows?). Cancer Research UK has two research projects at university level in Bath as well as a link with a local hospital. The charity supports research in all aspects of the disease through the work of more than 4,000 scientists, doctors and nurses across the UK whose work has contributed to the development of 19 of the top 20 drugs used to treat cancer patients worldwide today.

FFI: 08701 602040 OR WWW. CANCERRESEARCHUK.ORG.UK

january 2012 // 27

12/16/2011 3:37:16 PM

28 // january 2012

ad template.indd 28

venuemagazine

12/19/2011 10:43:23 AM

resolutionshobbies

Game on Film fans, poker players, chess champs and star-gazers, whoever you fancy becoming – or befriending – this year, Sarah Ashworth has some suggestions to beat the boredom

SPICE UP YOUR LIFE ● Lethargic? Bored? Listless? Cranky? Spice

PAINT MISBEHAVIN’

Bristol (who also cover Cardiff ) are a “social, adventure and activity group for ordinary people who want to do extraordinary things” – namely: dancing, downhill tubing, quizzing, glass-blowing, walking, partying, eating, drinking and even organising group holidays. If you can’t find at least something there to fire up your fun glands, you might as well give up now. Current subscription fees are £12/month (for one) or £18 for a couple by direct debit, and you’ll receive hefty discounts on what you’d normally spend on each activity. For full details of what’s on offer, how to join and to see what you can do, see www.spicebristolcardiff.com

CINEMANIA! ● Local cinéastes, artists and

enthusiasts co-curate the monthly Film Club Bristol which showcases unfamiliar and undervalued films at the Arnolfini. It begins again on 15 Jan with the beautifully scored 60s musical ‘Les Demoiselles de Rochefort’ starring Gene Kelly, and continues on 19 Feb with Sokurov’s profile of Adolf Hitler in ‘Moloch’ (1999). Genres might be wild, varied and unexpected, but film buffs and buffoons are all welcomed. The café is open afterwards for congregation and digressive discussion. Elsewhere, the Watershed’s Cinéphiles meet once a month to discuss the latest films onscreen at Bristol’s premier arthouse media centre. It costs £2 and new members are always welcome. More info on 0117 927 5100 or info@ watershed.co.uk

FILM CLUB BRISTOL MEET AT 5PM, MONTHLY, ON A SUNDAY, AT THE ARNOLFINI, 16 NARROW QUAY, BRISTOL, BS1 4QA. PHONE FOR TICKETS. FFI: 0117 917 2300 OR CHECK OUT THE BLOG AT WWW. FILMCLUBBRISTOL.COM

● Nothing beats the satisfaction of shooting

your friends with rock-hard paint-filled pellets – in a controlled paintballing environment, of course. It’s as much about winning as it is comparing battle scars; smoke out your enemy with grenades and get amongst the action in Paintball Bristol’s various war-like scenarios featuring army tanks, helicopter aircraft shells, bunkers and bamboo villages. Prices for half/ whole days start at £10-£15, paintballs extra (a bag of 50 costs £3.50). Group and discount packages are also available.

PAINTBALL BRISTOL COMMON WOOD, PENSFORD, BS39 4NT (SITUATED BETWEEN BRISTOL AND BATH). BOOKING ESSENTIAL. FFI: 0845 260 3993 OR INFO@ PAINTBALLBRISTOL.CO.UK

THE LIT PARADE ● Leaf through reams of local book clubs via www.bookgroup.info where laidback library/living room discussions of ‘Middlemarch’ and Merlot are often the norm. Alternatively, there are larger organised groups throughout Venueland: Toppings’ reading group in Bath (01225 428111) meet every few weeks (December saw them devour the Brothers Grimm and Steinbeck’s ‘Tortilla Flat’) and, taking place on the first Tuesday of every month, the book group at Waterstone’s, Bristol Galleries (0843 290 8185), begins again in February with Hillary Mantel’s historical fiction door-stopper ‘Wolf Hall’. Top of the pile in Bath is Mr B’s, whose ‘Book Lovers Unite’ themed events include author talks, related literature, food and music from The Bookshop Band. Keep an eye peeled for future events and their literary festival which will also run again in February.

‘BOOK LOVERS UNITE’ EVENTS BEGIN IN SPRING AT MR B’S, 14/15 JOHN ST, BATH, BA1 2JL. CALL TO CONFIRM. FFI: 01225 331 155 OR BOOKS@MRBSEMPORIUM.COM

HARD CORE PAWN

● Forget hitting the treadmill or bench-pressing the big ones, Adolf Anderson, winner of the first pro chess tournament in 1851, called the game a “gymnasium of the mind”. Those already familiar with endgame strategy might want to hook up with the friendly group who meet every Wednesday at the King William Pub, King St, Bristol between 7-11pm. Beginners may want to get some practice in first with the Bristol and Clifton Chess Club who encourage all ages and abilities to join them for some free trial sessions and a chat before signing up. Coaching is also available for a fee. Check the Bristol and District Chess League site (www.chessit.co.uk) for other clubs in Bristol and Bath.

BRISTOL AND CLIFTON CHESS CLUB MEET EVERY WEDNESDAY, THE POLISH CLUB, 50 ST PAULS RD, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 1LP. FFI: 07899 826515 OR ALAN@CHINADOC. FORCE9.CO.UK

venuemagazine

hobbies.indd 29

➜

january 2012 // 29

12/16/2011 3:58:52 PM

Social & Activity group web: www.spicebristolcardiff.com tel: 0742 9 59 8414

Make 2012 Your Year and Spice Up Your Life COME TO OUR

Tuesday 3rd January 2012, 7.45pm.

Brook Redwood Hotel, Failand, BS8 3TG.

Night

Monday 16th January, 7.45pm.

Hilton Bristol Hotel, Bradley Stoke BS32 4JF

find out more

Preview

30 // january 2012

p30.indd 30

venuemagazine

12/20/2011 2:36:33 PM

resolutionshobbies SMACK MY STITCH UP ● Gather a gang for a day of tassels, trimming, lace and cakes by crafting your own pair of naughty knickers at Bristol’s Cox and Baloney’s. The private parties include afternoon tea and run for six people plus.

Booking required, see www.coxandbaloney. com. Sticking with the undergarments, Heart Space Studios in Redland recently ran a twoday corset-making workshop and hope to run a whole bunch in the new year, including a ‘Handmade Weddings’ workshop to make bunting and other decorative matrimonial paraphernalia. In the meantime, there’s a Stitch & Knit Club running every Thursday at 7.30pm (£30 for three months) and an afterschool club for kids every Tuesday (£15).

PERFECT YOUR P-P-PPOKER FACE ● Fancy the thrill of a flutter without risking the roof over

your head? Know your flops from your rivers? The Bristol Poker League meets regularly at different pubs across Bristol (The Clyde Arms, Redland, The Cross Hands, Fishponds and Snooker City, Knowle, to name but a few) to play Texas Hold ‘Em for pints and points (not pounds – although some venues give you the option to buy in for a small pot of about £2).

Seasoned casino vets and poker virgins all welcome.

Membership is required, but it’s free.

BRISTOL POKER LEAGUE MEETS NEARLY EVERY NIGHT OF THE WEEK AT VARIOUS VENUES. FFI: WWW. BRISTOLPOKERLEAGUE.CO.UK

ON YER BIKE ● Who doesn’t like going fast and getting dirty, especially

when a mountain bike’s involved? Bristol has just been blessed with a £400k biker’s paradise in the shape of 11km of new bike trails built around Ashton Court and Leigh Woods.

Avon Outdoor Activities Club get together at the weekends to tackle the graded tracks. The 400+ members club also takes on skiing, walking, climbing, canoeing and sailing, with trips around the country and abroad. They also enjoy frequent socials down the pub. Nice.

HEART SPACE STUDIOS 4 HARCOURT RD, REDLAND, BRISTOL, BS6 7RG. FFI: 0117 923 2391 OR HEARTSPACESTUDIOS.CO.UK. PHONE FOR CONFIRMATION OF JANUARY CLASSES.

FEELING WINDY ● Readers blown away by Bristol’s annual International Kite Festival may want to take up kiting on a more regular basis. The Avon Kite Fliers, home of the 100-foot ‘Octopig’ kite, cater for youngsters and enthusiasts alike and meet on the first Sunday of the month at Ashton Court. The more extreme may be interested to know that the South West Association of Traction Kiting (that’s kites and karts, www.swatk.co.uk) and The British Kite Surfing Association (www.kitesurfing.org) are both based in Bristol. Beach not included.

AVON KITE FLYERS ANNUAL HOUSEHOLD MEMBERSHIP £15. FFI: 01275 342270 OR AVONKITEFLYERS@HOTMAIL.CO.UK

AOAC CHECK OUT THEIR ACTIVITIES CALENDER FOR EVENTS TAKING PLACE. FFI: BIKING@AOAC.CO.UK OR AOAC.CO.UK

STARRY EYED ● Stop whingeing about it

getting dark too early and set your sights on the Bristol Astronomical Society, who hold regular meetings and lectures for those with an inclination toward the astrological. For a taster, head over to Weston Rd, Failand, Bristol for a free ‘open observing’ every clear Saturday from 7.30pm (guidance and equipment provided). At the other end of the A4, the Herschel Museum of Astronomy in Bath (dedicated to the Herschels, who, in 1781, discovered Uranus from the same spot) will run events, guest talks and open observations when it re-opens on 30 Jan. Astronomical artist Chris Williams will be also be exhibiting from FebApril. Visit bath-preservation-trust.org.uk for more info.

TO JOIN THE BAS FOR THEIR OPEN OBSERVINGS, CHECK WEATHER STATUS AND RING FOR EXACT LOCATION. FFI: 07818 052929 OR SATURDAY.OBSERVING@BRISTOLASTROSOC.ORG.UK

venuemagazine

hobbies.indd 31

CONSERVATION STATION ● Fancy some fresh air? Meeting new people? What about the satisfaction of benevolently contributing to A Good Cause?

BTCV (British Trust for Conservation Volunteers) have a range of volunteering roles, from “ringing” rare birds – i.e. attaching a small ring for identification and monitoring – in Chew Valley to helping teens master carpentry and landscaping, all to create a more sustainable future. Activities change frequently, with free transportation from the centre of Bristol and Bath, and volunteers are always needed.

Elsewhere, the Avon Wildlife Trust run a similar project – the Wildlife Action Group (avonwildlifetrust.com) – or if moths and butterflies are more your bag, then Somerset and Bristol Butterfly Conservation (somerset-butterflies. org.uk) run various work days, sometimes including jacket spuds on the bonfire.

BTCV CREATE CENTRE, SMEATON RD, BRISTOL, BS1 6XN. FFI: 0117 929 1624 OR WWW.BTCV.ORG/AVON

january 2012 // 31

12/16/2011 4:00:11 PM

resolutionssalons & Spas

Easy, now Thinking about laser hair removal? Or perhaps you just fancy a facial pick-me-up? Or maybe just a good unwind… Lucy Meek looks into them all at Bath’s Orangery Laser Clinic and Beauty Salon and Bristol’s Relaxation Centre.

THE ORANGERY ● Tucked away on quaint, quiet Kingsmead Street in Bath, the Orangery is a little oasis of calm. Despite what feels like a force nine gale blowing outside, all the customers enter from the cold with big smiles on their faces – a good sign.

I have an appointment for a 'patch test' and a consultation for permanent IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Laser Hair reduction, one of the clinic’s most popular services which involves a laser technician guiding a light from a flashlamp to your required treatment area. The light is filtered to make sure that only the correct wavelengths reach the skin which the pigment in the hair absorbs and converts to heat. This is then transmitted into the hair follicle which is destroyed and rendered unable to produce a new hair. It is safe and straightforward and the Orangery offer a free of charge consultation and patch test. I'm never put under any pressure to take the next step, but unfortunately, a medical condition rules me out of the running for a patch test (the vast majority of people are fine, I’m told), so I happily settle for a Beauté Neuve facial instead. Customer safety is the Orangery’s top priority, laser technician Hannah tells me, closely followed by some evidently very high standards of customer care. Rather than rushing through as many treatments as possible, their philosophy is to devote as much time as possible to each customer – especially newbies such as myself.

Once I’ve filled in the relevant forms (customer care, again), I’m led by beauty technician Kayleigh down to some tranquil treatment rooms hidden on the lower ground floor. She tells me that when the outer layers of the epidermis (skin) are dehydrated, they cause the face to become dull-looking. The Beauté Neuve treatment removes these dull cells, letting the glow of new cells shine through. First a gel mask, rich in fruit acids, breaks down and loosens the top layer of dehydrated skin cells, then a foam treatment lifts them off and removes them. Finally, a 10minute ‘Clarimasque’ treatment gives the skin a much-needed vitamin C kick, regenerating its elasticity and reducing the appearance of pigmentation marks and blemishes.

The Beauté Neuve facial is an incredibly relaxing hour with dimmed lights, soft music and gently heated beds creating a cosy, relaxing atmosphere.

At the end of the treatment, I'm left to relax with a glass of water before making my way upstairs to the main reception – a nice touch that ensures I don’t feel rushed out just to make way for the next person.

32 // january 2012

spas.indd 32

Get rubbed up the right way at the Relaxation Centre

THE RELAXATION CENTRE ●

Over in Bristol, you’d be forgiven for wandering straight past the Relaxation Centre – it blends in well with its residential location in Clifton, looking every bit as homely as the houses either side. Such homeliness seems intentional, and continues inside, creating a lovely, cosy atmosphere. Once greeted and checked in, customers are asked to take their shoes off at the door and hang up their coats before moving upstairs to the waiting room, around which the treatment rooms are arranged like bedrooms.

First-time massage subjects (like me) are put instantly at ease by the friendly nature of the staff. I was booked in for an hour’s full body massage with Piia, covering back, shoulders, arms, hands, leg, feet and head.

Besides being incredibly relaxing, the holistic massages stimulate circulation, remove toxins and soften out knots in muscles. The treatment was predictably heavenly; peppermint oil burning in the background and soft, Indian-style chants inducing a kind of trance, tiptoeing towards full-blown sleep by the end. After a moment to relax and a glass of water, I had a final chat with Piia to see how it went and then was on my way, completely relaxed with newly loosened, stress-free muscles.

It’s hard to believe from its compactlooking exterior, but the centre isn’t limited to mere massage: hidden away inside lie a hot

tub, sauna, steam room, flotation room, meditation garden and oodles more.

Different programmes are available on different days of the week, so whether you’re male, female, a couple or even a nudist, you’ll find something to suit.

FACTS & CONTACTS THE ORANGERY

● Hair reduction treatments prices on

consultation. Facials start at £30; a course of 3 Beauté Neuve & a Hydradermie Plus is £180, currently on offer for £149.

THE ORANGERY LASER CLINIC AND BEAUTY SALON 2A KINGSMEAD ST, BATH, BA1 2AA, 01225 466 851, WWW. THEORANGERYLASERCLINICBATH. CO.UK

THE RELAXATION CENTRE

●

The full body massage and other treatments range from £28 for 30 mins to £84 for two hours. Access to the spa facilities costs between £21 and £31 per person depending on the day, with discounts for couples.

THE RELAXATION CENTRE 9 ALL SAINTS RD, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 2JG, 0117 970 6616, WWW. RELAXATIONCENTRE.CO.UK

venuemagazine

12/16/2011 4:04:10 PM

venuemagazine

p33.indd 33

january 2012 // 33

12/20/2011 2:47:51 PM

resolutionssalons & Spas

Spa and away Lucy Meek picks another five favourite relaxation stations.

The Bath House Spa ● The Royal Crescent Hotel, which houses the Bath

House Spa, occupies the enviable location of the Crescent’s two most central buildings. The spa experience is all about decadence and pure, unashamed luxury, and is located in a converted coach house in the hotel’s one-acre, landscaped garden. Treatments start at £15 for an eyebrow shape, with massages ranging between £60 and £155.

THE BATH HOUSE SPA AT THE ROYAL CRESCENT HOTEL 16 ROYAL CRESCENT, BATH, BA1 2LS, 01225 823 333, WWW.ROYALCRESCENT.CO.UK

Thermae Bath Spa ● Thermae is the only spa in Britain where you can bathe in naturally warm, mineral-rich spring water – just as the Celts and the Romans did. The water rises from the ground at 46°C, where it is filtered before being pumped into the pool. Their signature treatment is ‘watsu’ – an unusual variation on shiatsu which takes place in the water.

General spa entry costs £26 for two hours, £36 for four hours and £56 for a full day. Watsu sessions are £62.

THERMAE BATH SPA HOT BATH ST, BATH, BA1 1SJ, 0844 888 0844, WWW.THERMAEBATHSPA.COM

Sanctuary Spa Bristol ● The original Sanctuary spa in London started out as a place for the female dancers of the Royal Opera House to unwind.

As such, each of the chain’s spas is reserved exclusively for women, giving them a quiet space to relax with some time to themselves. The Bristol branch houses five treatment rooms, a relaxation centre and a champagne bar. Body massages range from £35 to £88; facials from £38 to £135.

SANCTUARY SPA BRISTOL QUAKERS FRIARS, CABOT CIRCUS, BRISTOL, BS1 3BU, 0117 370 2791, WWW.THESANCTUARY. CO.UK/BRISTOL-SPA.HTM

The Lido

● The Lido’s a lovely, reclaimed and renovated spa/restaurant,

hidden away near Whiteladies Road in Clifton. You wouldn’t expect there to be so much space, but a surprisingly large premises includes a sauna, steam room, hot tub and outdoor pool, as well as a gourmet, health-conscious, taste-conscious restaurant with treatment rooms upstairs. The approach here focuses very much on sustainable natural resources, which encompasses the treatments, products, the restaurant’s food and even the pool – which is low enough in chemicals to feel like a freshwater mountain dip.

THE LIDO OAKFIELD PLACE, CLIFTON, BRISTOL, BS8 2BJ, 0117 933 9530, WWW.LIDOBRISTOL.COM

34 // january 2012

spas.indd 34

The Spa at Cadbury House ● Where other spas can be big, busy and impersonal, The Spa at

Cadbury House has a smaller, more bijou feel. Customers can expect a one-to-one experience at the recently refurbished, multi-awardwinning centre, which is located in the grounds of the Hilton’s swanky DoubleTree hotel. The spa’s speciality is its “whisper soft” hydrotherapy foot spa, which is the first of its kind in the UK.

THE SPA AT CADBURY HOUSE FROST HILL, CONGRESBURY, BS49 5AD, 01934 834 343, WWW.CADBURYHOTELBRISTOL.CO.UK

venuemagazine

12/19/2011 10:20:38 AM

The results will be written all over your face.

mark simmons photography Tel: 0117 9140999 Mobile: 07778 063 699

A course of 6 IPL Permanent Hair Reduction treatments on Upper lip £149 On lip and chin £249 Other areas available, prices upon consultation.

❧

A course of 3 Beauté Neuve skin peeling treatments with a deep cleansing, hydrating, anti-ageing Hydradermie Plus Facial £149.

Natural Weddings

Offer is valid until end of January 2012

No.2 Kingsmead Street, Bath BA1 2AA Tel: (01225) 466851 www.theorangerylaserclinicbath.co.uk

venuemagazine

p35.indd 35

website: www.marksimmonsphotography.com

january 2012 // 35

12/20/2011 2:53:38 PM

For more information call Simon Wellby your certified Rolfer: 07799 693 546

gift now boxes ble availa

products are used in the Salon.

6 Rockleaze Rd, Sneyd Park, Bristol BS9 1NF Tel: 0117 9682663 www.carlohairandbeauty.co.uk 36 // january 2012

p36.indd 36

venuemagazine

12/20/2011 3:32:30 PM

resolutionshealth

All in good health Whether it’s unsightly stained teeth, immoveable muffin tops or a niggling sports injury, Lucy Meek investigates some local solutions to your new year health complaints.

What’s up? My snoring is driving my partner nuts, I fear for our marriage

Who can help? Get yourself down to Spire Healthcare, who are running a free Stop Snoring Open Evening at the Spire Bristol Hospital. You get a mini-consultation with a consultant surgeon who can tell you about possible treatments. The most popular ‘pillar’ procedure (a minimally invasive treatment during which small strips are inserted into the top of the mouth) takes a speedy 25 minutes in an outpatients room, with no need for a general anaesthetic.

What will it cost? The pillar procedure starts from £1,000.

Tell me more… Contact the Bristol branch on 0117 980 4080 or visit www. spirehealthcare.com

What’s up? Too much red wine and coffee over Christmas has left my teeth in a terrible state

Who can help? If your teeth are looking past their prime, the Bristol Smile Suite offers tooth whitening, invisible braces and replacements for lost teeth. The techniques used are non-invasive and preserve the tooth’s natural enamel, meaning the results are long-lasting and healthy. The tooth whitening service produces a natural effect, so rest assured that you won’t come out looking like Simon Cowell.

What will it cost? Fees are individually assessed, starting from around £250.

Tell me more… Call the practice on 0117 974 6550, email info@thesmilesuite.com or visit www.thesmilesuite.com

Tipping the scales: lose weight with the Bariatric Group

Get a winning grin with Bristol Smile Suite

What’s up? I don’t feel quite right – as if I’m emotionally and physically out of joint

Who can help? Simon Welby is a Bristolbased rolfer – someone who practises the holistic therapy rolfing. The treatment involves the manipulation of the soft tissue which binds our muscles, blood vessels and nerves, the aim being to loosen the bind to allow muscles to work freely. Patients’ bodies are realigned with gravity, the resultant personal ‘energy’ resolving any physical or emotional problems that may be present.

Simple, really.

What will it cost? Rolfing is recommended as a course of 10 treatments, each of which costs £65.

Tell me more… Contact Simon on 07799 693546 or visit www.rolfinginbristol.co.uk

What’s up? I’m desperate to lose weight but don’t want to go under the knife

Who can help? The Bariatric Group’s New Start programme is a 12-week non-surgical, intensive medical weight-loss course. Weekly sessions are complemented with medically approved food and exercise plans designed to help you lose weight and, most importantly, keep it off long term.

What will it cost? The course is priced at £625, which includes a starter pack with enough food to last you the first two weeks.

venuemagazine

health.indd 37

Tell me more… Call the Bristol hospital on 0117 392 2000 or visit www.thebariatricgroup. co.uk Anything else I might need to know? The course is run by health educators who have themselves overcome weight problems, so you can be sure that your guides practise what they preach.

What’s up? I’m constantly bloated and tired; I think it might be something I ate

Who can help? If you’re suffering from tiredness, headaches, bloating or stomach aches, especially after eating, you may have a food intolerance. Food Intolerance Testing Bristol offers tests in their clinic or by post for a wide range of foods – all they need is a few drops of blood.

What will it cost? Tests start at £19.95 for a positive or negative result; further tests to isolate specific foods range from £110.95 (40 foods) to £290.95 (200 foods).

Tell me more… Call the practice on 0333 577740, email info@ foodintolerancetestbristol.co.uk or visit www. foodintolerancetestbristol.co.uk

What’s up? I want to lose weight and get fit, but I just can’t seem to stay focused

Who can help? Using a combination of psychotherapy and hypnosis, Avon Gorge

➜

january 2012 // 37

12/16/2011 4:11:57 PM

38 // january 2012

p38.indd 38

venuemagazine

12/20/2011 3:01:17 PM

resolutionshealth your past, SFH is far more forward-facing, encouraging clients to develop a positive vision of the future and then make that a reality. Whether you suffer addictions, anger, embarrassment, insomnia, IBS, nail-biting, nightmares, obsessions, sexual problems or stress, they can help you beat your bugbear.

What will it cost? Initial consultations are free; subsequent sessions are £60.

Tell me more… Call 0117 946 6070, email info@thecliftonpractice.co.uk or visit www. thecliftonpractice.co.uk

What’s up? I’m so wound up at work, I might go postal

Acupuncture: good for all sorts of ailments Hypnotherapy helps clients make better life decisions by putting them into a trance-like state where the subconscious takes over.

Hypnotherapy is especially beneficial to weight loss and focusing on sport and fitness goals, but can be used to treat a wide range of problems, from stage fright to smartphone addiction.

What will it cost? An initial consultation of 45 mins to one hour is free, with no further obligation and a free relaxation CD. Subsequent sessions are £50 each for one hour.

Tell me more… Call the practice on 07834 635903 or visit www.avongorgehypnotherapy. com Anything else I might need to know? Local title-winning boxer Glenn Catley, who used hypnotherapy when competing, has not only made the unusual career change to hypnotherapist but even trained with the rather lovely Paul Concannon, AGH’s founder.

What’s up? I’m anxious, I’m anxious, I’m ANXIOUS!

Who can help? Bristol Acupuncture Practice treats a variety of problems, but acupuncturists Deb Heberlet and Al Hessari both have a background in mental health, making them especially well-equipped to treat stress and anxiety. The practice also offers solutions to addiction, insomnia, lack of willpower and other mental health problems.

What will it cost? Initial sessions, including a consultation and treatment, are £45.

Subsequent sessions are £35. A course of six sessions is recommended in most cases, but clients can expect to see a difference in their mood straight away.

Tell me more… Contact Deb or Al on 0117 963 9813, info@bristolacupuncturepractice. co.uk or www.bristolacupuncturepractice. co.uk

venuemagazine

health.indd 39

What’s up? I’ve had a niggling sports injury for months that I can’t seem to shake

Who can help? Amongst other things (many other things), CircleBath treats a range of injuries, whether sporting or otherwise. The physiotherapists aim to restore your natural movement through non-invasive musculoskeletal treatments, helping your body to heal itself. As they say, prevention is better than cure, so CircleBath’s treatments are specially tailored to keep injuries from sneaking back again, giving you some priceless long-term peace of mind.

What will it cost? Sports injury consultations are £130 initially and £115 for reviews.

Tell me more… Call 01761 422222, email enquiries@circlebath.co.uk or visit www. circlepartnership.co.uk/locations/bath

Who can help? The Spa at Cadbury in Congresbury (on the outskirts of Bristol) has the lot. Unwind and rejuvenate with a facial, massage, body, hands or free treatment, or tackle the cause of your stress head on with one of a number of holistic healing treatments: an Indian head massage will help improve blood flow to the brain and ease tension; reflexology (the one channelled through your feet) can help release the body’s self-healing properties; or reiki, a Buddhistdeveloped treatment that involves the transfer of natural healing energy to promote the body’s regenerative self, balance your emotions and leave you feeling soothed and relaxed. Ahhh…

What will it cost? All treatments are priced individually, though the holistic ones range from £45-£50, other treatments from £15.

Tell me more… Call the spa on 01934 834 343 (option 5) to chat through available treatments, or see for yourself at www. theclubandspabristol.co.uk

What’s up? After a busy Christmas and New Year my body needs a bit of TLC

Who can help? Wellspring Healthy Living Centre is a community space with a difference. From bustling, lively, community hub during the week, it is transformed into a gentle, holistic healing space called Oasis at weekends. There are a range of massages available, along with reflexology, osteopathy, ear candles and a chiropractor.

What will it cost? Treatments are priced between £30 and £40 per session.

Tell me more… Call 0117 304 1400, email reception@wellspringhlc.org or visit www.wellspringhlc.org

What’s up? I’m getting into all sorts of bad habits but have no motivation to change

Who can help? The Clifton Practice offers personalised hypnotherapy with a difference – Solution Focused Hypnotherapy. Rather than ploughing over problems and issues in

Unwind and heal at Bristol's Wellspring january 2012 // 39

12/16/2011 4:12:33 PM

The Retreat Health & Beauty/Skin Care Clinic Century House, 4, Pierrepont Street, Bath, BA1 1LE. Tel: 01225 446836 Web: www.theretreatbath.co.uk Email: enquiries@theretreatbath.co.uk Treatments 1. IPL/Laser - hair removal and thread vein, pigmentation, fine lines, acne and instant skin rejuvenation 2. Microdermabrasion with diamond tip exfoliator, ultra sound, thermo/cryotherapy, LED light therapy, micro current 3. Genie Complete - world’s only 10 minutes facelift, 1000 times more powerful than any other non surgical face lifts which also does slimming, toning and lymph drainage to achieve great results 4. Complete range of beauty therapy and massages 5. Hot and warm wax for brazilian and hollywood bikini waxing 6. Durable Bio Sculpture gel painting 7. Fearne Cotton’s favourite Murad Facials and skin care range

40 // january 2012

p40.indd 40

venuemagazine

12/20/2011 3:04:21 PM

resolutionsBEAUTY

Beauty in an instant

Magnificent maquillage ● Lipstick, powder and paint: every clever girl (and quite a few clever boys, too) know that nothing lifts a dreary outlook faster than make-up. But do you really know how to enhance your features to their very best advantage? Take a trip to Bath’s FrontlineStyle and put yourself in the hands of the professionals: the 30-minute ‘Make Up to Go’ session (£32) includes professional tips and advice and a full makeover using Clarins hypoallergenic products. Want to take your look top-totoe? Clarins Bronzing and St Tropez Tanning treatments offer an immediate sunkissed glow (see legs, pictured).

Melissa Blease has got her eye on the latest primping and pampering trends.

Serum-dipity ● Many potions and lotions and claim to offer an instant ‘facelift’ effect, but in reality few deliver more than intensive moisturising. Prana Skincare’s Active Multi Vitamin Lift Serum, however, really does live up to its plumping, firming, smoothing promises from the very first application, offering immediate uplifting, tightening and toning results. Apparently, the active ingredient in this miraculous melange – made from an intelligent combination of organic botanicals and a high-powered combination of vitamins combined with rare Swiss Apple Stem Cells – mimics that of a natural muscle relaxant, and the astonishing effects can last for up to two days, depending on lifestyle. Instant radiance? You’ve got it!

FRONTLINESTYLE 4-5 MONMOUTH ST, BATH, BA1 2AJ, 01225 478478 OR WWW. FRONTLINESTYLE.CO.UK

FFI: VISIT WWW.PRANASKINCARE.CO.UK FOR A LIST OF SUPPLIERS.

Waxing lyrical ● Strip – located within the prestigious

Harvey Nichols department store in Bristol’s Cabot Circus – has brought A-list, fuzz-free luxury to Bristol. Recently announced winner of Best Waxing Salon in Harpers Bazaar Hot 100, Strip offers perfection in the art of Brazilian waxing for both women and men.

Relax and unwind in opulent surroundings while friendly, professional therapists treat you to a hygienic, fast, effective and virtually painfree experience. Choose from a menu that includes the signature Chocolate and Hazelnut Wax and the newly-launched Nourishing Olive Wax, while spray tans, eyelash and brow tints, false eyelashes, vejazzling, bikini gems and a range of stylishly provocative lingerie to show the new you off in complete the experience.

STRIP HARVEY NICHOLS BEAUTY HALL, 27 PHILADELPHIA ST, QUAKERS FRIARS, CABOT CIRCUS, BRISTOL, BS1 3BZ, 0117 916 8864, WWW. STRIPWAXBAR.COM

Fresh faced ● Threading, waxing, massage,

manicures, pedicures, eyelash extensions, hair removal – phew, the beautifying list is endless – and Bath’s fabulous, aptly-named Retreat really has got it all going on and more. But for an instant lift (literally!), the Genie Take 10 experience (£30) stimulates facial muscles to leave your skin looking and feeling tighter, younger and healthier, while improving circulation for that all-important glow factor... in 10 minutes flat.

THE RETREAT CENTURY HOUSE, 4 PIERREPONT ST, BATH, BA1 1LE, 01225 446836, WWW.THERETREATBATH.CO.UK

Do it yourself ● Thanks to the wonders of t’internet,

there’s always a helpful expert on hand to advise you on how to achieve instant glamour, and many of them provide video tutorials on the art of applying the 2012 versions of false lashes and nails, fake tan, hair extensions, make-up and all manner of quick fix beautifying aids. Meanwhile, most big department stores offer free beauty counter makeovers and wallet-friendly brow reshape/tidying up sessions without an appointment, and 10-minute manicures can be enjoyed at Nail Bars across the South West. So, what are the current buzzwords for instant glamour, 2012 style? This year, Gel Nails are the new acrylics, eyebrows are plumping up and hair straighteners are just sooo last year (hot tip: the wiggy watchword is waves). New year, new look you – you go, girl!

venuemagazine

beauty.indd 41

january 2012 // 41

12/16/2011 4:15:00 PM

42 // january 2012

p42.indd 42

venuemagazine

12/20/2011 3:31:12 PM

resolutionshair

Mane attractions Melissa Blease shows you how to follow your favourite style icons down the catwalk to red carpet hair.

Jennifer Aniston

Lady Gaga ● Make like the fashion icon that’s

● The woman responsible for thousands of choppy long layers highlighted with honey-hued streaks is a perennial style icon. Jen can, however, get a bit stressed out by the gossip and rumour mill that surrounds the former Mrs Pitt. If you’re in search of a style to make your very own in 2012 but crave a calm, secluded urban oasis staffed with friendly experts to assist you through the process, we can’t recommend a trip to Bath’s FrontlineStyle – holder of a welldeserved five-star rating in the current Good Salon Guide – highly enough.

FRONTLINESTYLE 4-5 MONMOUTH ST, BATH, BA1 2AJ, 01225 478478, WWW. FRONTLINESTYLE.CO.UK

launched a thousand style ships and reinvent your look at Bristol’s vibrant Moda, widely considered to be the friendliest high-concept salon for miles around. Moda has been specifically designed with the individual needs of all clients in mind, and even includes a discreet VIP area with five-star services to match. A range of services from quick-fix blowdrys to bang-ontrend cut and colour makeovers are complemented by expert advice and drop-dead gorgeous products including all the latest Tigi hair care products (Moda is an officially designated Tigi Concept salon) and make-up.

MODA 205A GLOUCESTER RD, BISHOPSTON, BRISTOL, BS7 8NN, 0117 942 1006, WWW.MODAHAIRDRESSING.CO.UK

Cheryl Cole

George Clooney

● She’s the immaculately groomed, sassy

● Ah, gorgeous George: he knows what he likes –

vamp who amps up the glossy volume at every opportunity and urges us to follow suit “because we’re worth it”. But we all know that this accessible icon is a downhome girl at heart who hangs out with the chicks in the ’hood at every opportunity. If you’re in Cheryl’s gang, you’ll love Carlo Hair and Beauty: a friendly, longestablished haven of all things gorgeous in Bristol’s Sneyd Park.

CARLO HAIR AND BEAUTY 6 ROCKLEAZE RD, SNEYD PARK, BRISTOL, BS9 1NF, 0117 968 2663, WWW.CARLOHAIRANDBEAUTY.CO.UK

and we like what we see. The same could be said of local legend Franco Lombardi, who has been sorting men’s manes out for over a quarter of a century (and also oversees the aforementioned Moda with his wife Tina). From classic barber services (straightforward tidy-ups, hot towel shaves) to cutting-edge creativity, what Franco doesn’t understand about men’s grooming isn’t worth knowing. Visit him between 7.30-9am on Friday mornings and enjoy a croissant, a coffee and some good old-fashioned men’s talk while Franco or one of his team kickstart the handsome weekend ahead in – well, in style.

FRANCO’S 63A OVERTON RD, ST ANDREWS, BRISTOL, BS6 5AG, 0117 944 6265, WWW.BRISTOLBARBER.COM

Kylie Minogue ● From soap star to international ’sleb superstar, we’ve

followed Kylie Minogue on every single step of the journey towards the adored Princess of Chic that she is today. And we’re convinced that Kylie would adore seanhanna, the glamorous, upmarket salon group that consistently wins illustrious industry awards and endless acclaim from national style pundits. Signature cuts at the chic, contemporary Bristol branch include the Tier Drop, the Colour Kiss and the Freedom, Vintage and Swish cuts (visit the website and peruse the style gallery for inspiration), but friendly, approachable staff are delighted to work with you to achieve the look you want, complete with all the advice you need to maintain your beautiful mane.

SEANHANNA 13 QUAKERS FRIARS SQ, CABOT CIRCUS, BRISTOL, BS1 3BU, 0117 934 9393, WWW.SEANHANNA.COM

venuemagazine

hair.indd 43

january 2012 // 43

12/16/2011 4:16:50 PM

Ma ma

d n a br t n i pr web b u p g n i h lis o t pho y h p a gr contact us venue publishing, 4th floor, bristol news & media, bristol bs99 7hd tel 0117 942 8491 email d.higgitt@venue.co.uk / bang@venue.co.uk web www.bangstudio.co.uk

p44.indd 1

12/20/2011 3:14:57 PM

resolutionscosmetic surgery

Cosmetic changes It’s only natural to want to look your very best, but sometimes, even Mother Nature needs a helping hand, says Melissa Blease. ● Cosmetic surgery – formerly referred to

as ‘plastic surgery’ – offers numerous, potentially life-changing treatments and options, with the most popular (boob jobs, lip reshaping, tummy tucks, eye and face lifts and rhinoplasty) forming the tip of an iceberg that takes in vaginoplasty (‘cosmetic’ gynaecology), penile augmentation, gender reassignment surgery and total reconstruction techniques. And what’s on offer is no longer the hush-hush domain of the super-rich and famous; a survey published last July by the Harley Medical Group (the UK’s largest cosmetic surgery provider) revealed that almost half of the 3,000 women aged between 18 and 30 that they consulted would consider cosmetic surgery to correct certain features, with breast augmentation, tummy tuck and face lift procedures topping the ‘Most Wanted’ charts. As a result, it’s no longer considered rude or unusual to ask someone who has undertaken such a procedure which surgeon rid them of their droopy eyelids or redefined their jaw line – indeed, many esteemed surgeons rely on meeting new clients through word-of-mouth recommendations. So, if a friend of a friend, a colleague or an acquaintance is happy to talk about the successful outcome of the ‘work’ they’ve had done and you like what you see, don’t be afraid to ask them who did it, how much it cost and what was involved. Honest, experienced opinion is invaluable because cosmetic surgery isn’t cheap, nor is it free of risks and complications.

But what the experienced, expert specialists at Nuffield Health don’t know about every single aspect of the whole subject really isn’t worth knowing – they’ve heard it, seen it and done lots of it all before. Tell them what you’ve got in mind (and why it got there in the first place) at the very first stage of the consultation process and they’ll help you decide what’s best for you, suggesting options and helping you make a plan. Should you decide to go ahead, a flexible payment policy allows you to pay for your procedure in a number of ways, and expert aftercare comes as standard. You’re on the safe, healthy route towards a very successful outcome – and a new look you.

But cosmetic surgery isn’t always purely cosmetic. The Harley Medical Group survey also found that 43.5% of women who had ever been teased or bullied (a total of 47.45% of those surveyed) would consider a cosmetic

venuemagazine

cosmetic surgery.indd 45

Ask the experts

surgery procedure to increase their selfconfidence – and self-confidence is, after all, the bedrock of a happy life. If, however, that bedrock is being eroded by constant, sinister undermining courtesy of a bullying partner or so-called ‘friend’ (or you know, in your heart, that you’re bowing to the pressures of those generally unobtainable media images of ‘perfection’ that we’re bombarded with on a daily basis), then we urge you seek emotional and psychological advice and support before making an appointment with a surgeon.

The Department of Health offers comprehensive information to help people make informed choices (www.dh. gov.uk/en/Publichealth/CosmeticSurgery/ index.htm) while the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (www. baaps.org.uk) can provide you with a list of qualified surgeons in your area. For further information about Nuffield Health services in Bristol, contact St Mary’s Hospital, Upper Byron Place, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 1JUU (tel: 0117 987 2727) or visit www.nuffieldhealth.com. To read more about the Harley Medical Group survey and the services the HMG offers, visit www.harleymedical.co.uk

january 2012 // 45

12/16/2011 4:19:11 PM

resolutionsNON-INVASIVE SURGERY

Skin deep Melissa Blease on the alternatives to conventional cosmetic surgery.

Microdermabrasion

The experts SK:N For two decades, SK:N Clinics have helped over half a million clients discover a more radiant, youthful glow by using the latest clinically proven products and technologies in state-of-the-art clinics... without the word ‘scalpel’ ever coming into the equation. The SK:N team are all highly qualified specialists in the very latest skin rejuvenation techniques including Botox®, laser treatments and skin peels, and can offer highly effective responses to a wide range of challenges from blemishes, acne and uneven complexions to wrinkles, scars, thread veins and unwanted tattoos.

SK:N 13 CLARE ST. BRISTOL, BS1 1XH, 0844 669 7546, WWW.SKNCLINICS.CO.UK Beautology Expect A-list treatment in super-relaxing surroundings at Bristol’s Beautology, who offer a range of treatments including massage and holistic therapies, mani/ pedicures and facials to effective solutions to all manner of problems via laser and IPL therapies, muscle relaxation injections, Mesotherapy (which reduces the appearance of cellulite), Microdermabrasion, electrolysis (great for unwanted hair removal), skin peels, non-surgical facelifts, Advanced Prescriptive Facials and much more.

● These days, cosmetic surgery doesn’t have to involve an expensive, often traumatic stint under the surgeon’s knife, nor an overnight stay at a hospital. Think of our basic guide to the UK’s most-wanted non-surgical treatments as a mini-menu of what’s on offer before consulting our experts for further details.

Microdermabrasion Perfect for skin that’s desperately in need of a radiance blast, also effective for flaking/dry/ sun-damaged skin and stretch marks. A deep exfoliation treatment refines the surface of the skin using a flow of gently abrasive crystals that smoothly vacuum dead cells away, allowing fresh collagen and cells to form over time. Used as part of an anti-ageing skincare regime, it can also reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

The non-surgical facelift Think of it as a painless isometric workout for your face, delivered by a therapist using hand-held ‘wands’ to transmit microcurrents through your skin and facial muscles. As a result, your skin will appear more toned and will take on a firmer, more supple appearance, and lines will be softened.

Botox®, Vistabel®, Restylane® Particularly successful in the treatment and reduction of fine lines and deep wrinkles by artificially relaxing the muscles that cause them, Botox® (also known as Vistabel®) has to be the biggest non-surgical cosmetic success story in recent decades, and can also be used to reduce excess perspiration. While Botox® is, technically, a toxin, Restylane® is a gel-like substance known as hyaluronic acid naturally found in the skin. Results of Restylane®

46 // january 2012

non-invasive surgery.indd 46

BEAUTOLOGY 107 COLDHARBOUR RD, WESTBURY PARK, BRISTOL, BS6 7SD, 0117 950 0500, WWW.BEAUTOLOGY.CO.UK

Botox Beautology injections provide natural-looking benefits and belong to the ‘cosmetic filler’ category.

Laser treatments Carried out under local anaesthetic, a surgeon uses a carbon dioxide laser to vaporize the upper layers of skin, allowing and encouraging new skin to reform. The technique successfully reduces the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and scars, and can remove unwanted tattoos. Pulses of laser light can be used to treat port wine stains, acne scars and spider veins; this form of laser skin treatment is usually called Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy.

Chemical peels This technique uses a chemical solution that causes the dead skin to slough and eventually peel off, improving and smoothing the texture (think if it as a highly advanced version of the off-the-shelf exfoliating cleansers).

venuemagazine

12/16/2011 4:20:28 PM

r1 fo

on

y ar ok us nu Lo ulo 2… in Ja b 1 s fa 20 y tan in spra

2

London’s No1 Waxing Boutique now taking Bristol by storm The only wax worth taking your clothes off for!

20% off Treatments

bristol@stripwaxbar.com 0117 916 8864 Quakers Friars Cabot Circus p47.indd 1

12/20/2011 3:15:35 PM

p48.indd 1

12/20/2011 2:21:04 PM