tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52738723433809458072024-02-26T08:33:42.578+00:00Balance HolisticsInformation about a wide range of Holistic Therapies including Aromatherapy, Indian Head Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Reflexology, Swedish Massage, Hopi Ear Candling and Reiki.Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.comBlogger122125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-48247933308991609282011-04-30T13:54:00.004+01:002011-04-30T14:00:30.869+01:00New Hypnotherapy BlogI have just launched a new blog for the Hypnotherapy side of my business - <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk" title="Solution Focused Hypnotherapy with Sarah Mortimer">Sarah Mortimer Hypnotherapy</a>! Check out the <a href="http://bristolhypnotherapy.blogspot.com" title="Hypnotherapy in Bristol with Sarah Mortimer">Bristol Hypnotherapy</a> Blog.<br /><br />This new blog will include information on Solution Focused Hypnotherapy and the wide range of issues it can help with. Hypnotherapy is very effective at helping with sleeping problems, anxiety, depression, stress related illnesses, pain management, panic attacks, phobias, addictions, obsessions, weight problems, and much more.<br /><br />The blog will also contain tips on how to lead a more positive and happy life in addition to news and updates on my Hypnotherapy business.<br /><br />I hope you enjoy reading my blog.Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-29977297387439635162011-04-15T11:02:00.004+01:002011-04-15T11:14:59.708+01:00Hypnotherapy for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)April is <strong>International Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness </strong>month!<br /><br />The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), who are responsible for providing national guidance on promoting good health and preventing and treating ill health, <strong>advise GPs to refer patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) for psychological interventions (CBT, Hypnotherapy or Psychotherapy) if they have not responded to pharmacological treatments.</strong><br /><br />BBC News reported last year on a gastroenterologist who refers his clients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome for Hypnotherapy. In a study he carried out, <strong>9 out of 10 of his patients had their IBS symptoms improve significantly</strong>. Read the full article - <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/8572818.stm">Hypnotherapy can help with Irritable Bowel Syndrome</a>.<br /><br />Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be quite unpleasant at times and can have a big impact on the life of the sufferer. Hypnotherapy helps to reduce stress levels which in turn helps reduce the symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome.<br /><br />Find out more on how <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Hypnotherapy_For_IBS.html">hypnotherapy can help Irritable Bowel Syndrome </a>on my Bristol Hypnotherapy website.Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-39030004572372199632011-04-05T11:54:00.003+01:002011-04-05T12:00:06.387+01:00Bristol Hypnotherapy PricesAs of 1st April 2011, my hypnotherapy prices are as follows:<br /><br /><strong>FREE Initial Consultation</strong>Subsequent hypnotherapy sessions - £60<br /><br />Smoking Cessation - extended 2-hour session - £120<br /><br />All clients receive a <strong>FREE 30-minute relaxation/self-hypnosis CD</strong>.<br /><br />I offer Solution Focused Hypnotherapy in Bristol at <a href="http://www.healingroomsbristol.co.uk">The Healing Rooms</a> on Gloucester Road. Appointments are available morning, afternoon and evenings.<br /><br />More details on Hypnotherapy and who can benefit from it can be found on my <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk">Hypnotherapy in Bristol</a> website.Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-85077777373957059672011-02-11T10:29:00.003+00:002011-02-11T10:48:32.884+00:00Worrying About What Other People ThinkMany of us worry about what other people think of us, whether it's the way we dress, what we do, or how we act. This can often lead to low self-esteem, negative thinking and a lack of confidence which then only fuels the worry and a viscous circle begins.<br /><br />I subscribe to a very informative newsletter written by <a href="http://www.terencewatts.com/">Terence Watts</a> through his website <a href="http://www.hypnosense.com/">Hypnosense</a>. In the newsletter this week it had a story in it which I found really interesting to read and it can be a great help if you worry too much about what others think.<br /><br /><blockquote><strong>The Red Jacket</strong><br /><br />Imagine that you have gone out clothes shopping and just happened upon a bright red jacket - something you would not normally wear. When you try it on, however, you like it so much that you decide to wear it straight away. as you leave the shop you meet somebody you know who does a double take and says: "Hi - WOW! That's a great jacket and looks terrific on you! It REALLY suits you!" This pleases you and you go on your way.<br /><br />A little further along the road, you meet a couple that you know and this time the reaction is slightly different. "Oh! That's bright isn't it?" one of them says. And the other continues: "Hmm. nice colour, I suppose - a bit bright for my taste, but it probably suits you well enough, I think." <br /><br />Naturally, after the first one, this response disappoints you and you continue on your way wishing you felt as positive as you had in the shop.<br /><br />A few moments later you meet a third 'friend' who stares, chuckles and says: "My goodness me! How much did they pay you take that out of the shop? I'll get me sunglasses I think! No, no, don't tell me - you're going to a fancy dress party! HaHaHa!"<br /><br />Now the question is, which one of those three individuals would you believe? The one who said it was great? The couple who thought it was a bit bright but 'probably' suited you well enough? Or the one who thought it looked like a fancy dress outfit?<br /><br />Many people, if not most, will plump for that third one. But in truth, you should believe NONE of them! The jacket was always the same and you were always the same; all that's happened is that each person has told you his or her own thoughts - and those thoughts are based on their life, their background, their wishes and fears. things which have nothing to do with your life at all. <br /><br />The truth of it all is that no matter what you do and how you are, some people will like you and things you like, some people won't like you, and the probability is that most people won't mind one way or the other. <br /><br />Quite often, life is just like that red jacket.</blockquote><br /><br />Hypnotherapy can help break the pattern of negative thinking and help you stop worrying about what others think about you. It can help boost your confidence and improve your self esteem. More information about Hypnotherapy can be found on my <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk">Hypnotherapy in Bristol</a> website.Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-10423889676794201382011-02-02T09:53:00.004+00:002011-02-02T10:07:45.073+00:00NEW Hypnotherapy Website LaunchedThe new website for Sarah Mortimer Hypnotherapy is now up and running at <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/">www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk</a>.<br /><br />I'd like to thank everyone who gave me great feedback and ideas for the website which helped me shape it into what it is now and I'm very pleased with it.<br /><br />It contains loads of information about what hypnotherapy is, <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Hypnotherapy_Appointments.html">what to expect from a session</a>, some information about myself, and most importantly, has seperate pages on different issues that hypnotherapy cen help with, for example, <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Hypnotherapy_For_Phobias.html">Phobias</a>, <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Hypnotherapy_For_IBS.html">Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)</a>, <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Hypnotherapy_For_Anxiety.html">Anxiety</a>, <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Hypnotherapy_For_Depression.html">Depression</a>, <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Hypnotherapy_For_OCD.html">Obssessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)</a>, <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Hypnotherapy_For_PTSD.html">Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)</a>, <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Hypnotherapy_For_Weight_Loss.html">weight loss</a>, <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Stop_Smoking_With_Hypnotherapy.html">stopping smoking</a>, and <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk/Hypnotherapy_For_Pain_Management.html">pain management</a>.<br /><br />In addition to the issues listed above, hypnotherapy can help with a wide range of issues including negative thinking, lack of confidence, eating disorders, stress, relationship problems, childbirth, wedding nerves, driving test nerves, and much much more - the list is endless!<br /><br />I provide hypnotherapy sessions at The Healing Rooms on Gloucester Rd, Bristol.<br /><br /><strong>I am offering discounted sessions </strong>until 1st April 2011 - <strong>FREE Initial Consultation</strong>, £25 for subsequent sessions. Smoking cessation is an extended 2-hour session charged at £50. Prices will increase in April to £60 per session, £120 for smoking cessation. You will also receive a <strong>FREE 30-minute relaxation/self-hypnosis CD</strong>.<br /><br />If you would like to find out more about hypnotherapy and how it could help you or would like to book an appointment, please <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk">visit my website</a>, <a href="mailto:enquiries@sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk">email me</a>, or call 07851 307 062.Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-35172784391890828332010-12-23T11:07:00.003+00:002010-12-23T11:12:11.380+00:00Christmas Cards and CharityThis year, instead of sending Christmas cards out to all my clients like I usually do, <strong>I have decided to donate the money that I would have spent on cards and postage to charity</strong>.<br /><br />I have chosen the charity <strong>Caring at Christmas </strong>who help homeless people at Christmas and throughout the year. They <strong>run a Christmas shelter every year in Bristol </strong>and they also provide homeless 16 to 24 years olds with temporary accommodation in the homes of volunteer hosts. <br /><br />During this recent spell of cold weather, I have not been able to shake the feelings I've had when thinking about all the homesless people out on the streets at night trying to survive these cold temperatures. It must be horrible for them. I moan enough just being out in it for 5 minutes! Their only hope is through projects like this and others like it to get them through it.<br /> <br />More information about the charity can be found on their <a href="http://www.caringatchristmas.org.uk/">website</a>. <br /><br />Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!<br />Best wishes, SarahSarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-9542069786605243172010-12-08T12:46:00.005+00:002010-12-08T12:57:24.537+00:00Product In Focus - Natural Skin Cream for Eczema Prone Skin<strong>Eczema can be really problematic </strong>especially when it's cold and windy. <strong>Looking after your skin at this time in particular is essential to keeping it under control.</strong><br /><br /><strong>Naturalistics has the perfect cream for Eczema-prone skin.</strong> The Naturalistics Skincare range is made in Bristol, England with natural ingredients and are free from nasty chemicals and parabens.<br /><br />Scented with Cape Chamomile, this cream is <strong>rich in vitamin A and E</strong> and is very nourishing and healing to the skin and leaves the skin feeling super soft and supple.<br /><br /><strong>Now a little bit about the ingredients....</strong>Vitamin A is necessary for the maintenance and repair of skin tissue. Vitamin E is very moisturising and can help smooth dry, rough skin and is a powerful anti-oxidant helping to protect your skin from free radicals. Aloe vera helps rehydrate and soothe the skin. Shea butter contains phytosterols which stimulates cell growth and cinnamic acid which has an anti-inflammatory effect and is very healing to the skin. Borage oil is exceptionally high in Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) which the body needs to create prostaglandins. The skin needs prostaglandins to keep it healthy and to prevent dryness, loss of suppleness and wrinkling.<br /><br /><strong>This cream is an excellent choice for people with eczema-prone skin in particular </strong>as well as for those with dry or sensitive skin. It also makes a rich moisturiser for mature skin, for babies, and for the hands and feet.<br /><br />A 60ml Jar costs just £9.99 and a little goes a long way! For more details on the cream, check out the <a href="http://www.naturalistics.co.uk/Cream_for_Eczema_Prone_Skin.htm">Cream for Eczema-Prone skin on the Naturalistics website</a>.Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-92163496702903327032010-12-04T10:22:00.004+00:002010-12-04T10:33:21.730+00:00NEW Hypnotherapy SessionsThis year, I have been studying towards a Hypnotherapy Practitioners Diploma at The Clifton Practice in Bristol. The training there is very extensive and practical and I have gained a huge amount of knowledge and experience.<br /><br />I have already been <strong>seeing clients for various issues including anxiety, depression, insomnia, bereavements, and phobias </strong>to name a few. I have now reached the stage in my training where I am oblidged to start charging for my services. The <strong>initial consultation is FREE</strong> and subsequent hypnotherapy sessions are charged at £25. This is a <strong>discounted rate </strong>while I am qualifying and is great value! In April 2011 when I qualify, my fees will increase to the standard going rate for Hypnotherapy which will be decided nearer the time.<br /><br />I also provide a <strong>FREE 30 minute Relaxation / Self-Hypnosis CD</strong> to each of my clients<br /><br /><strong>Hypnotherapy is helpful for many different issues including </strong>stopping smoking, phobias, stress, anxiety, depression, weight loss, negative thinking, sleeping problems, relationship problems, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Pain Management, Lack of Confidence and Self Esteem, Public Speaking, and much more.<br /><br />To find out more about Hypnotherapy and how it can help you, please visit my <a href="http://www.sarahmortimerhypnotherapy.co.uk">Hypnotherapy in Bristol website</a>.Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-67484168169801643602010-12-04T10:18:00.002+00:002010-12-04T10:22:06.480+00:00The Gift of Relaxation at ChristmasKnow someone who works or lives in Bristol? Looking for an original and thoughtful gift for someone special this Christmas? <br /><br /><A title="Visit the Balance Holistics website to find out more about massage gift vouchers in Bristol" href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk/gift_vouchers.htm">Balance Holistics</A> gift vouchers are the perfect <A title="read about the gift of relaxation - massage gift vouchers in Bristol" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/07/gift-of-relaxation.html">gift</A>!<br /><br />Gift vouchers can be purchased <a href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk/gift_vouchers.htm">online</a> and are available in increments of £5 or for individual treatments including Aromatherapy Massage, Swedish Massage, Reflexology, Hot Stone Massage, Thai Foot Massage, Holistic Facials, Holistic Foot Treatment, and more.Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-80076180749965494242010-02-24T13:50:00.004+00:002010-02-24T13:59:26.291+00:00Massage Taster SessionsI still have a few spaces left for massage taster sessions on Thursday 4th March at The Chiron Centre, Westbury-on-Trym in Bristol. Appointments available between 1.30pm and 4.30pm. Treatments include Aromatherapy or Swedish back massage, Aromatherapy face or foot massage, Reflexology, Reiki, and Indian Head Massage. <br /><br />Booking is essential - For more information or to book a taster session call 07851 307 062 or email <A href="mailto:enquiries@balanceholistics.co.uk">enquiries@balanceholistics.co.uk</A>.<br /><br />Check out my previous post on the <A href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2010/02/holistic-therapy-taster-sessions.html">taster sessions at The Chiron Centre</A> and also a short post on <A href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/01/holistic-therapy-taster-sessions.html">taster sessions</A> in general.<br /><br />Address: The Chiron Centre, 130 Westbury Road, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS9 3AL<br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/642ff177-241e-4b7d-8b62-29edb1fb05b6/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=642ff177-241e-4b7d-8b62-29edb1fb05b6"></A><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-61926344819601692812010-02-13T11:43:00.003+00:002010-02-13T11:50:22.991+00:00Price ChangesThis is something that I have tried to resist for a while now but after 3 years with no price increases and ever increasing costs, it has come the time when I must put my prices up on all the holistic treatments I offer. The new prices come in to effect from 1st March 2010—if you have already booked an appointment in March (before receiving this notification of price increases), I will honour the old price for that appointment. Block booking prices will also be changing. If you have any questions about the new prices, please contact me on <A href="mailto:enquiries@balanceholistics.co.uk">enquiries@balanceholistics.co.uk</A>. Further information can be found on the <A href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk">Balance Holistics website</A>.<br /><br />The new prices are as follows:<br /><br />Swedish Back Massage -- £25<br />Swedish Full Body Massage -- £35<br />Aromatherapy Back Massage -- £30<br />Aromatherapy Full Body Massage -- £40<br />Aromatherapy Full Body Massage inc. Face & Scalp -- £45<br />Hot Stone Back Massage -- £35<br />Hot Stone Full Body Massage -- £45<br />Hot Stone Full Body Massage inc. Face & Scalp -- £50 <br />Reflexology (30 min) -- £25<br />Reflexology (1 hour) -- £35<br />Indian Head Massage (30 min) -- £20<br />Indian Head Massage (1 hour) -- £30<br />Reiki (30 min) -- £20<br />Reiki (1 hour) -- £30<br />Hopi Ear Candling -- £30<br />Holistic Facial -- £35<br />Thai Foot Massage -- £35<br />Feet First -- £35<br />Mix ‘n’ Match -- £35<br /><br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/9156bbb0-7d65-4afa-a69a-1749bc303505/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=9156bbb0-7d65-4afa-a69a-1749bc303505"></A><SPAN class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><SCRIPT type="text/javascript" defer="defer" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js"></SCRIPT></SPAN></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-79706612531330524842010-02-09T21:12:00.003+00:002010-02-24T14:00:59.008+00:00Holistic Therapy Taster SessionsAs of Thursday 5th March, Balance Holistics will be working from <A href="http://www.chironcentre.co.uk">The Chiron Centre</A> in Westbury-on-Trym in addition to <A href="http://www.healingroomsbristol.co.uk">The Healing Rooms</A>. It is a lovely clinic with excellent facilities. There is ample on-street parking nearby with no parking restrictions and it is served regularly by buses from the city centre. <br /><br />Upon arrival at The Chiron Centre, you will be greeted by a receptionist who will show you to the waiting area where you can help yourself to fresh filtered water and fruit. While you are waiting for your appointment, you can sit and relax on the comfy sofas and flick through any number of the books and magazines on offer, look out on the wonderful garden, or simply sit and listen to the relaxing music being played. There is also the added benefit of being able to pay for your treatment with your credit or debit card. <br /><br />If you would like to come and check out the Chiron Centre and experience a treatment there, please give me a call on 07851 307 062. Understandably, the prices will be slightly higher at the Chiron Centre but I’m sure you will agree that it’s worth it when you see the facilities and feel how inviting and peaceful it is. Please check the <A href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk">Balance Holistics website </A>for prices.<br /><br />As a special introductory offer, I will be offering 30 minute taster sessions for £10 at The Chiron Centre on Thursday 4th March. Appointments are available between 1.30 and 5.30pm. Treatments on offer that day include Aromatherapy or Swedish Back Massage, Foot Massage, Reflexology, Indian Head Massage, Reiki, and Aromatherapy Face Massage. Booking is essential. Please contact me for more details and to book your appointment.<br /><br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/ad2311a2-03ab-4b05-8769-b04dbdccc671/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=ad2311a2-03ab-4b05-8769-b04dbdccc671"></A><SPAN class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><SCRIPT type="text/javascript" defer="defer" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js"></SCRIPT></SPAN></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-5678372827029079922010-01-24T10:06:00.004+00:002010-01-24T10:23:08.215+00:00Run Down of 20092009 was a year of training and professional development what with me attending so many courses.<br /><br />To kick start the year, I went on a <A href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/02/skills-update.html">Thai Foot Massage course </A>in February over in Newport which was run by <A href="http://www.teachtherapy.co.uk/public/index.cfm">TEACH Therapy</A>. The snow that month caused quite a bit of disruption (just as it has recently) with me getting to The Healing Rooms and to clients houses so I had to rearrange several appointments.<br /><br />In March, I attended a course in <A href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/03/skills-update.html">Holistic Aromatherapy Facials</A> with the same trainers as the Thai Foot Massage course and shortly after, in April, I started offering this treatment to clients. I also created and started offering the <A href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk/feet_first.htm">Feet First holistic foot care treatment</A> which is fast becoming a popular treatment.<br /><br />At the beginning of April, I took a week off from giving massages to go on a week-long Karate training course in Paignton. It was very intensive and I could hardly walk by the end of the week but I enjoyed it very much and hope to attend it again this year. Not long back to work, I provided various holistic treatments at several hen parties across Bristol. I also started working in several residential homes offering therapeutic aromatherapy massage to people with learning disabilities which I have found very rewarding. Another month and another course – I attended a course which looked at <A href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/04/skills-update-essential-oils-for.html">essential oils for pregnancy & childbirth</A>. <br /><br />In May I was asked to provide 15 minute free taster sessions in <A href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Indian%20Head%20Massage">Indian Head Massage</A> at The University of Bristol’s Staff Positive Working Environment Day. I had an amazing response with over 150 emails requesting a taster session. I ended up doing two days of taster session to try and accommodate as many people as I could. It was a great couple days and everyone found it very beneficial and many of the clients who had tasters have continued to have regular holistic treatments. <br /><br />In June, I attended part 2 of the <A href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/06/skills-update-advanced-massage.html">advanced massage course </A>that I had started in 2008. The summer holidays were quite quiet with people off on their vacations so it gave me the opportunity to train a little more in Karate and I obtained 5th kyu (purple belt).<br /><br />In September, I spent a week in London. I attended a course on cosmetic legislation, selling legislation and setting up business with <A href="http://www.plushfolly.com/">Plush Folly</A> in Hampton. I then went on a 3-day course in Fulham with <A href="http://www.aromantic.co.uk/">Aromantic</A> on making natural skin care products (Beginners through to Advanced). Since then, I have been designing and making my own skincare products and building a new website to sell them on. I am currently having the first range of products safety assessed with a cosmetic toxicologist to ensure they are safe to use on the skin. Once the assessments come back, I will start selling them on the <A href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk">Balance Holistics website </A>and on the new <A href="http://www.naturalistics.co.uk">Naturalistics website</A>. All products are free from parabens, sodium lauryl sulphate, and other nasty chemicals. They are 100% vegetarian and most of them are vegan. They are not tested on animals. I am very excited about my range of products which include bath melts, massage bars, face creams, foot creams, balms, and ointments to name a few. <br /><br />In September, I also signed up to Twitter - you can follow Balance Holistics at <A href="http://twitter.com/balanceholistic">http://twitter.com/balanceholistic</A>.<br /><br />Despite the recession, Balance Holistics was very busy for the first half of 2009 although it did take a slight dip during the summer when people were off on their holidays and then picked up again just before Christmas with everyone buying <A href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/07/gift-of-relaxation.html">gift vouchers as presents</A>.<br /><br />This year, I have tried a wide range of different holistic therapies to further my knowledge including <A href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Acupuncture">acupuncture</A>, sports <A href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Massage">massage</A>, osteopathy, trigger point therapy, and bowen technique. I found them all enjoyable and helpful in different ways.<br /><br />So as 2009 was a year of training, 2010 is a year of expansion. During the first half of the year, I plan to start working within two other complementary therapy centres across Bristol in addition to The Healing Rooms. More details on the locations and clinic times will be posted when the details have been confirmed.<br /><br />I wish everyone a happy and prosperous 2010.<br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/1dac659d-0860-4a79-b8c0-641fa73fdd0e/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=1dac659d-0860-4a79-b8c0-641fa73fdd0e"></A><SPAN class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><SCRIPT type="text/javascript" defer="defer" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js"></SCRIPT></SPAN></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-50439789643828183432010-01-20T10:26:00.002+00:002010-01-20T10:29:08.149+00:00Balance Holistics Website UpdateOver the past several months I have been revamping the Balance Holistics Website. The newly designed website is now available at <A href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk">http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk</A>. Much of the information is the same – there are some changes to text such as the explanations of the various <A href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk/therapies.htm">holistic therapies</A> I offer and the <A href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk/terms_and_conditions.htm">terms and conditions</A>.<br /><br />I have added a new page for this <A href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk/blog.htm">blog</A> and will show the last few posts on there too.<br /><br />I have kept the layout simple to make navigating the site easy.<br /><br />I hope you enjoy reading the site. If you have any feedback about the new site, please leave a comment on this post.<br /><br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/6b065414-1027-4bec-b0aa-e0f1953b41c9/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=6b065414-1027-4bec-b0aa-e0f1953b41c9"></A><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-15808601177937191832010-01-19T09:52:00.000+00:002010-01-19T09:54:43.200+00:00Price ChangesAs of 1st January 2010, there will be a £5 price increase for all Hot Stone Massages. <br /><br />New prices:<br />Back, Face & Scalp - £35<br />Full Body - £45<br />Full Body inc. Face & Scalp - £50<br /><br />Also, there will be a £5 charge applied for all home visits to cover travelling time and petrol costs.<br /><br />For more information on prices and treatments, check out the <A href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk">Balance Holistics</A> website.<br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/cd1c3379-6f20-44b1-a6b0-6f339fd1b890/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=cd1c3379-6f20-44b1-a6b0-6f339fd1b890"></A><SPAN class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><SCRIPT type="text/javascript" defer="defer" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js"></SCRIPT></SPAN></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-67780982682231957662010-01-18T21:18:00.005+00:002010-01-18T21:40:25.094+00:002009 in Books<DIV class="picture left" style="WIDTH: 205px"><IMG alt="Holistic Therapy Books" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUs4H1-3R2DtiGnRuDQdOtf-JXDT1kH7GoQp4dgQThtE_Kzltnx4g2DANkm02Orcy4qvI3QzNtuQsDCvGyTkbnJ6Sn_Wyl3sdfqe6DlJ4aGxnOTrzu6fam51niFkqux4c5n57DSHKdVu2B/s200/books.jpg"></DIV>As mentioned last year when I wrote the <A title="read post" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/02/2008-in-books.html">2008 in books</A> post, I regularly read books, magazines, journals and websites related to Holistic Therapies, general health, and wellbeing. This helps to enhance my skills and knowledge in the therapies I practice, broadens my knowledge of holistic therapies as a whole, and keeps me in touch with current practices.<br /><br />Below is a list of books that I read and found helpful in 2009.<br />•<A href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0553274279?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0553274279">The Edgar Cayce Remedies</A><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" border=0 alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0553274279" width=1 height=1> by William A. McGarey, M.D<br />•<A href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0781769191?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0781769191">Massage Therapist's Guide to Pathology</A><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" border=0 alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0781769191" width=1 height=1> (Fourth Edition) by Ruth Werner<br />•<A href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0443052603?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0443052603">Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals</A><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" border=0 alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0443052603" width=1 height=1> by Robert Tisserand & Tony Balacs<br />•<A href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0671033972?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0671033972">Molecules of Emotion: Why You Feel the Way You Feel</A><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" border=0 alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0671033972" width=1 height=1> by Candace Pert, M.D<br />•Complete <A class=zem_slink title="Reflexology: Complete Illustrated Guide" href="http://www.amazon.com/Reflexology-Complete-Illustrated-Inge-Dougans/dp/0007131119%3FSubscriptionId%3D0G81C5DAZ03ZR9WH9X82%26tag%3Dzemanta-20%26linkCode%3Dxm2%26camp%3D2025%26creative%3D165953%26creativeASIN%3D0007131119" rel=amazon>Reflexology</A>: Therapeutic Foot Massage for Health and Wellbeing by Inge Dougans<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B002M9UBP6?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B002M9UBP6">Jude's Herbal Home Remedies</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=B002M9UBP6" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Jude C. Todd<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0718147650?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0718147650">You Are What You Eat</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0718147650" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Dr Gillian McKeith<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0646428969?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0646428969">The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0646428969" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Salvatore Battaglia<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/184353682X?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=184353682X">The Rough Guide to Blogging</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=184353682X" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Jonathon Yang<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1577310462?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=1577310462">Living in the Light: A Guide to Personal & Planetary Evolution: A Guide to Personal and Planetary Transformation</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=1577310462" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Shakti Gawain<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0749928603?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0749928603">Living Well with Pain and Illness: The Mindful Way to Free Yourself from Suffering</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0749928603" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Vidyamala Burch<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1580171443?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=1580171443">Healing with Herbs: Simple Remedies for 100 Common Ailments</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=1580171443" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Penelope Ody<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0600608174?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0600608174">Reflexology and Acupressure: Pressure Points for Healing (Hamlyn Health & Well Being)</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0600608174" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Janet Wright<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1844428443?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=1844428443">Hand and Foot Massage: Step-by-Step Feel-Good Techniques</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=1844428443" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Mary Atkinson<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1856267016?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=1856267016">21st Century Beauty Bible</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=1856267016" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Sarah Stacey and Josephine Fairley<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1572242388?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=1572242388">Fibromyalgia and Chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Survival Manual</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=1572242388" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Devin J. Starlanyl, Mary Ellen Copeland, and Christopher R. Brown<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1580170943?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=1580170943">Creating an Herbal Bodycare Business (Making a living naturally)</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=1580170943" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Sandy Maine<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1580911811?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=1580911811">Essential Reiki Teaching Manual: An Instructional Guide for Reiki Healers</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=1580911811" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Diane Stein<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0955432324?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0955432324">The Aromantic Guide to Unlocking the Powerful Health and Rejuvenation Benefits of Vegetable Oils: In Skin, Hair and Health Care Products</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0955432324" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Kolbjorn Borseth<br />•<a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0955432316?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0955432316">The Aromantic Guide to Making Your Own Natural Skin, Hair and Body Care Products</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0955432316" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> by Kolbjorn Borseth<br /><br />This year, I have held subscriptions with <a href="http://www.massageworld.co.uk/">Massage World</a> and <a href="http://www.fht.org.uk/Homepage/About_Us/IT_Magazine/">FHT's International Therapist</a> magazines as well as the <a href="http://www.ijca.net/">The International Journal of Aromatherapy</a>.<br /><br />On a personal level, I have read various books on karate and on growing your own vegetables.<br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/a439f024-f6c6-458a-a5c7-75d15347cccd/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=a439f024-f6c6-458a-a5c7-75d15347cccd"></A><SPAN class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><SCRIPT type="text/javascript" defer="defer" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js"></SCRIPT></SPAN></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-73680588991181726292009-11-06T21:10:00.003+00:002009-11-06T21:19:15.620+00:00Give the Gift of Relaxation this ChristmasKnow someone who works or lives in Bristol? Are you looking for an original and thoughtful gift for someone special this Christmas?<br /><br /><A title="Visit the Balance Holistics website to find out more about massage gift vouchers in Bristol" href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk/gift_vouchers.htm">Balance Holistics</A> gift vouchers are the perfect <A title="read about the gift of relaxation - massage gift vouchers in Bristol" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/07/gift-of-relaxation.html">gift</A>!<br /><br />Why not treat someone to a Balance Holistic treatment in Bristol this Christmas – such as a relaxing <A title="read all posts on aronatherapy" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Aromatherapy">Aromatherapy</A> Massage, a luxurious <A title="read all posts on holistic facials" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Holistic%20Facials">Holistic Facial</A>, some <A title="read all posts on reflexology" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Reflexology">Reflexology</A>, or an <A title="read all posts on indian head massage" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Indian%20Head%20Massage">Indian Head Massage</A>?<br /><br />Gift Vouchers can be purchased for a complete treatment or in £5 increments. Gift vouchers come with a blank gift card and envelope so that you can write your own message inside.<br /><br />All holistic therapy gift vouchers can be used at The Healing Rooms in Bristol or in the comfort of your own home in Bristol or the surrounding areas. <br /><br />Buy your <A href="http://www.balanceholistics.co.uk/gift_vouchers.htm">Christmas massage gift voucher</A> online today.<br /><br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/72921dbe-6c8e-4c88-9fdc-1c0571abd9e7/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=72921dbe-6c8e-4c88-9fdc-1c0571abd9e7"></A><SPAN class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><SCRIPT type="text/javascript" defer="defer" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js"></SCRIPT></SPAN></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-40792972940340186482009-10-05T10:31:00.003+01:002009-10-05T10:43:15.138+01:00Questions & Answers: Essential Oils for Menopause<STRONG>“What essential oils are good for the menopause?”</STRONG><br /><br /><A title="find out more about clary sage essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/09/essential-oil-of-week-clary-sage.html">Clary sage</A>, rose, sage (Spanish), and fennel are all very good essential oils for menopausal symptoms. Roman chamomile, lemongrass, peppermint, cypress, lemon and vetiver are excellent for hot flushes. <br /><br /><STRONG>Making a spritz spray with a few of these oils can be very effective at helping hot flushes.</STRONG><br /><br /><STRONG>To make a instant relief cooling spray,</STRONG> mix 100ml of distilled water (or spring water) with 20ml of vodka or witch hazel and add your chosen essential oils. I would suggest adding 8-10 drops of <A title="read all posts on essential oils" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Essential%20Oils">essential oils</A> in total. I would be inclined to use peppermint, roman <A title="find out about the different variations of chamomile essential oils" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/06/which-chamomile.html">chamomile</A>, and cypress. <br /><br />Pour in to a spray bottle, place the lid on, and shake well. Always shake well before use. This can be stored in the fridge to increase the cooling affect. <STRONG>When using sprays on the face, avoid contact with the eyes. </STRONG><br /><br />View the video below for an alternative recipe for a cooling spray. It uses <A title="read more about lavender essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/08/essential-oil-of-week-lavender.html">lavender</A> and peppermint essential oils along with rose water.<br /><br /><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" id="cs_player" width="425" height="330"><param name="movie" value="http://eplayer.clipsyndicate.com/cs_api/get_swf/3/&pl_id=13857&hue=224&page_count=15&windows=1&show_title=0&va_id=964160&auto_start=0&auto_next=1"></param><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://eplayer.clipsyndicate.com/cs_api/get_swf/3/&pl_id=13857&hue=224&page_count=15&windows=1&show_title=0&va_id=964160&auto_start=0&auto_next=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="330"></embed></object><br /><br />As always, make sure you perform a <A title="learn how to perform a patch test for essential oils" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/04/how-to-perform-patch-test.html">patch test</A> before using the product on a larger area of skin.<br /><br />For more information on how to use the essential oils listed above for menopausal symptoms, check out <A title="learn how to use essential oils" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/05/15-ways-to-use-essential-oils.html">15 ways to use Essential Oils</A> – you could add the oils to your bath, an <A title="read about how to use an oil burner" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/08/using-oil-burner.html">oil burner</A>, or a cream.<br /><br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/423a6a98-389c-42cf-9678-1388abc33edf/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM-STYLE: none; BORDER-RIGHT-STYLE: none; BORDER-TOP-STYLE: none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-LEFT-STYLE: none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=423a6a98-389c-42cf-9678-1388abc33edf"></A><SPAN class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><SCRIPT type="text/javascript" defer="defer" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js"></SCRIPT></SPAN></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-28978450996759262112009-09-22T22:38:00.003+01:002009-09-22T22:49:16.946+01:00Question & Answer: Preparation for Birth WoundsI am expecting my first child in a couple weeks and would like to make a preparation to use on any birth wounds that I might get. Could you recommend anything?”<br /><br />I would recommend mixing some aloe vera gel with <A title="find out more about lavender essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/08/essential-oil-of-week-lavender.html">lavender</A> and <A title="find out more about tea tree essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/08/essential-oil-of-week-tea-tree.html">tea tree</A> essential oils which can be used on birth wounds of any kind including caesarean scars and stitches. Keep the gel in the fridge and apply 3/4 times a day. It will help speed up healing, reduce pain and inflammation, and help prevent infection. According to the <A href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0789410672?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0789410672">Encyclopaedia of Medicinal Plants</A><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" border=0 alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0789410672" width=1 height=1> by Andrew Chevallier, extensive research has been carried out since the 1930s showing <blockquote>“that the clear gel has a dramatic ability to heal wounds, ulcers and burns, putting a protective coat on the affected area and speeding up the rate of healing. This action is in part due to the presence of aloectin B, which stimulates the immune system.”</blockquote>A spray can also be made using the <A title="read all posts on essential oils" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Essential%20Oils">essential oils</A> mentioned above along with witch hazel. <blockquote>“Witch hazel contains large quantities of tannins. These have a drying, astringent effect, causing the tightening up of proteins in the skin and across the surface of abrasions. This creates a protective covering that increases resistance to inflammation and promotes healing of broken skin.”</blockquote>You could also place a small amount of either of these blends on a sanitary pad to wear if you would prefer that to applying them direct.<br /><br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/cdafca59-3772-4942-a630-757f21be027b/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM-STYLE: none; BORDER-RIGHT-STYLE: none; BORDER-TOP-STYLE: none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-LEFT-STYLE: none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=cdafca59-3772-4942-a630-757f21be027b"></A><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-85726593043339350312009-09-14T12:42:00.006+01:002009-09-14T13:05:01.845+01:00Spa Review: Center Parcs, Longleat Forest<DIV style="WIDTH: 200px" class="picture left"><IMG alt="Steam Rooms and Saunas in a Spa" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOzPu1uwLTdWy7saaU6Yzka0T5FElRDjMm6BDTp1VKhwzVAAdVpeJah6dWKwGuudOLy9p3xmfIZOLQW4r2kCTKjC32R9CKbjwlJ453vdfxyZr9axw3S-MvMzOZcO7277-RaKn3ZO8X1mKS/s200/sauna.jpg"> <BR>Photo by <A href="http://www.flickr.com/people/hendry/" title="view hendry's profile on flikr">hendry</A>.</DIV>At the weekend I visited the <A title="find out more about the spa on the Center Parcs website" href="http://www.centerparcs.co.uk/villages/longleat/spas/aqua_sana/index.jsp">Aqua Sana spa</A> at Longleat Forest Center Parcs. It was my first trip to a spa so I was very excited. I’ve used steam rooms and saunas before at swimming pools and gyms but never in a spa.<br /><br />On arrival, I was given a warm white robe to change in to and a towel to take round with me. The spa was very peaceful and everyone who was using it was very respectful of each other keeping talking to a minimum so that we could all benefit from the relaxation experience. <br /><br />Soft relaxation music was played in to the steam and meditation rooms and the surrounding relaxation areas. There were about 15 different rooms to use including steam rooms, meditation rooms, saunas, relaxation area, experience showers, ice fountain, and a small outdoor heated pool. <br /><br />I spent 3 hours in the spa and spent most of the time in the steam rooms and saunas. If I had had more time, I may have also made use of the relaxation areas as they were amazing. There was a zen garden, water beds, giant beanbags, and loungers that all looked very comfortable and inviting.<br /><br />My favourite steam room was the Indian Blossom steam room which was the hottest and most humid of all the steam rooms and the steam was infused with eucalyptus and menthol which did wonders for my <A title="read all posts on sinus problems" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Sinus%20Problems">sinus congestion</A>. My second favourite was the Japanese salt steam room which had heated seats and the steam was infused with mineral salts and mint.<br /><br />My favourite sauna was the Tyrolean Sauna which was a traditional wooden lined sauna with the aromas of pine and mountain herbs and was very hot indeed. After some time in the sauna, I rubbed a handful of flaky ice from the ice fountain all over my body which felt really refreshing.<br /><br />I felt amazing afterwards and my skill felt so soft – I don’t recall it ever being that soft before! In the evening I did have a bit of a <A title="find out what a healing crisis is" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/07/what-is-healing-crisis.html">detox/healing response</A> but it didn’t last long. <br /><br />I loved my first spa experience very much. I can’t decide whether I like steam rooms or saunas more. Planning my next trip to a spa as I write…<br /><br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/5ba2a0fb-aade-4812-9f66-e12ad804eb92/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM-STYLE: none; BORDER-RIGHT-STYLE: none; BORDER-TOP-STYLE: none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-LEFT-STYLE: none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=5ba2a0fb-aade-4812-9f66-e12ad804eb92"></A><SPAN class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><SCRIPT type="text/javascript" defer="defer" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js"></SCRIPT></SPAN></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-90989616483462272122009-09-11T11:11:00.001+01:002009-09-11T11:13:08.629+01:00Balance Holistics Now on Twitter!Over the months I have heard various people talking about Twitter but never really new what it was or how to use it until now. I have just joined Twitter to update people on things relating to Balance Holistics and this blog and anything else I think is interesting. My Twitter profile can be viewed and followed at <A title="follow me on twitter" href="https://twitter.com/balanceholistic">https://twitter.com/balanceholistic</A>. My last five updates can also be viewed in the right sidebar under ‘Balance Holistics on Twitter.’ I hope you enjoy my tweets!<br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/65f46233-ccec-43d7-95c9-fad6e67cf73c/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM-STYLE: none; BORDER-RIGHT-STYLE: none; BORDER-TOP-STYLE: none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-LEFT-STYLE: none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=65f46233-ccec-43d7-95c9-fad6e67cf73c"></A><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-77115710735863140192009-09-10T09:40:00.005+01:002009-09-10T10:04:33.451+01:00Question Time: Essential Oils for ScarringI regularly get asked questions by existing clients and people via email regarding wellbeing, complementary therapies, and various ailments. So I decided to include some of these questions and my answers here on my blog. For the first Question Time post, the question is:<br /><br /><STRONG>“Are there any oils that I can use to help speed up the healing of wounds and help reduce scarring?”</STRONG><br /><br /><A title="find out more about the arnica homeopathic remedy for bruises and sprains" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/08/arnica-homeopathic-remedy-for-bruises.html">Arnica</A> is good for helping reduce any bruising that may be surrounding the wound, it is an anti-inflammatory, and helps scar healing and reduction. <strong>Helicrysium is an excellent anti-inflammatory and helps with tissue regeneration.</strong> Rosehip Seed oil and Hazelnut oil are also good choices for the <A title="read all posts on carrier oils" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Carrier%20Oils">carrier oil</A>.<br /><br />As for the <A title="read all posts on essential oils" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Essential%20Oils">essential oils</A>, I would definitely use <A title="find out more about lavender essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/08/essential-oil-of-week-lavender.html">lavender</A>. <strong>When wounds start healing, the area can often itch so I would recommend perhaps including German <A title="find out more about the different variations of chamomile essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/06/which-chamomile.html">chamomile</A> to help counteract this.</strong> Mandarin and sage are also good for scars as is carrot seed, <A title="find out more about frankincense essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/01/essential-oil-in-focus-frankincense.html">frankincense</A>, patchouli, and vetiver.<br /><br />For a 30ml blend, I would recommend mixing 15ml Rosehip seed with 15ml of either Hazulnet or Arnica then add 20 drops of Helicyrsium (1ml) and 20 drops of lavender. Then 15-20 drops split between the other essential oils that you decide to use – perhaps 10 drops frankincense, 5 drops mandarin, 3 drops German chamomile, and 2 drops sage. It is quite a strong blend so it shouldn't be used all over the body - just on the affected areas 2-3 times a day. <strong>It will help speed up the healing process, reduce any redness and inflammation, and hopefully reduce the scarring. </strong><br /><br />Always perform a <A title="find out how to perform a pacth test" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/04/how-to-perform-patch-test.html">patch test</A> first.<br /><br />If you would like your question to feature in a future Question Time post, please post your question as a comment or <A href="mailto:enquiries@balanceholistics.co.uk">email me</A>.<br /><br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/b4680a81-e68f-461a-9fdc-89579fd2d5e9/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM-STYLE: none; BORDER-RIGHT-STYLE: none; BORDER-TOP-STYLE: none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-LEFT-STYLE: none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=b4680a81-e68f-461a-9fdc-89579fd2d5e9"></A><SPAN class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><SCRIPT type="text/javascript" defer="defer" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js"></SCRIPT></SPAN></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-31634578574826779502009-09-08T12:28:00.005+01:002009-09-08T12:55:40.282+01:00The Herbal Medicine ChestI already have several herbal remedies, essential oils and homeopathic remedies in my medicine chest which I find invaluable. While reading a book from the library titled <A title="view book on amazon" href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0751336904?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0751336904">Home Hints and Tips: The New Guide to Natural, Safe and Healthy Living</A><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" border=0 alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0751336904" width=1 height=1> by Rosamond Richardson, I found a section on the herbal medicine chest. It suggested the following remedies to keep in your cupboard:<br /><br /><STRONG>Aloe Vera</STRONG> – the gel can be used for minor burns and scalds, sunburn, stretch marks, warts, wounds and grazes, eczema and dermatitis, and dehydrated skin.<br /><br /><STRONG>Arnica</STRONG> – the cream can be used on bruises, sprains and strains, and stiff and aching muscles while the <A title="Find out more about Arnica homeopathic remedy for bruises and sprains" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/08/arnica-homeopathic-remedy-for-bruises.html">arnica homeopathic pillules </A>can be taken when you have sustained an injury, are in pain, or have experienced shock or trauma.<br /><br /><STRONG>Calendula</STRONG> – the cream can be used on acne, boils, athlete’s foot, bites and stings, nappy rash, bruises, minor wounds, and swellings.<br /><br /><STRONG>Chamomile</STRONG> – the <A title="find out more about the different variations of chamomile essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/06/which-chamomile.html">chamomile essential oil </A>can be blended with a <A title="read all posts on carrier oils" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Carrier%20Oils">carrier oil</A> such as sweet almond oil and used for a wide variety of <A title="read all posts on skin conditions" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Skin%20Conditions">skin conditions</A> including nappy rash, eczema and dermatitis, sore and itching skin, bites and stings, sore nipples and muscles spasms. A cream is also available which can be used for the same conditions. German Chamomile is the best variation of chamomile for skin conditions. Chamomile tea is excellent for insomnia, indigestion, morning sickness, and relaxation.<br /><br /><STRONG>Clove</STRONG> – a couple drops of the essential oil can be used to help toothache – place 2-3 drops on some cotton wool and dab on to the surrounding area.<br /><br /><STRONG>Comfrey </STRONG>– a cream or ointment can be used for bruises, acne, boils, fractures and wounds, fungal skin infections, psoriasis, and stiff and aching joints.<br /><br /><STRONG>Echinecea</STRONG> – both tablets and tincture are available and can be used to help stimulate the immune system when under attack for example during a cold / flu. It can also help coughs, fevers, mild asthma and cold sores.<br /><br /><STRONG>Garlic</STRONG> – capsules can be taken to increase your resistance to infections and can be used for colds and flu, coughs and bronchitis. It also helps to lower blood pressure and can be used for cold sores and digestive infections.<br /><br /><STRONG>Hypercium</STRONG> – the cream is very effective for cramps, neuralgia, cold sores, back pain, and stiff and aching joints and muscles. The oil can be used on minor wounds and burns.<br /><br /><STRONG>Lavender </STRONG>– the <A title="find out more about lavender essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/08/essential-oil-of-week-lavender.html">lavender essential oil </A>can be used for headaches, back pain, asthma, irritability, insomnia, relaxation and much more. It can be used neat on insect stings and bites, spots, and cold sores. Add it to a carrier oil to massage stiff and aching muscles and joints.<br /><br /><STRONG>Meadowsweet</STRONG> – the tablets can be used for rheumatic aches while a tea made from meadowsweet can help with stomach acidity, heartburn, and diarrhoea.<br /><br /><STRONG>Neem</STRONG> – the oil can be used to treat head lice, skin rashes, ringworm, and it is also a powerful insect repellent. The cream can be used for eczema, proriasis, acne and many other skin conditions.<br /><br /><STRONG>Slippery Elm </STRONG>– the capsules are good for coughs and bronchitis. The powder is good for acidity and indigestion while the tablets are good for diarrhoea, <A title="read all posts on IBS" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Irritable%20Bowel%20Syndrome">irritable bowel syndrome</A>, and haemorrhoids.<br /><br /><STRONG>Tea Tree</STRONG> – the <A title="find out more about tea tree essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/08/essential-oil-of-week-tea-tree.html">tea tree essential oil </A>is good for stings, bites, wounds, skin infection, ringworm, athlete’s foot, minor burns, warts and corns, and much more. It can also be used undiluted on the skin but if it is to be used on a large area of skin it is best to dilute it in a carrier oil first. It can be used to treat thrush by mixing 2-3 drops with 1 tsp of olive oil and place on a tampon to insert. Leave it in for 2-3 hours, remove, and repeat if required.<br /><br /><STRONG>Thyme </STRONG>– the essential oil is good for bites, stings, scabies, sciatica, ringworm, rheumatic pain, athlete’s foot, and thrush. This essential oil must be diluted before use.<br /><br /><STRONG>Valerian & Hops</STRONG> – tablets are available to help insomnia, relieve stress, tension and anxiety. Valerian is also available as an <A title="read all posts on essential oils" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Essential%20Oils">essential oil </A>which can be placed on a tissue on your pillow at night.<br /><br /><STRONG>White Willow</STRONG> – tablets can help arthritis, rheumatic pain, back pain, stiff and aching joints, and fever. It also reduces night sweats and hot flushes in menopause.<br /><br /><STRONG>Witch Hazel</STRONG> – this can be used on insect bites and stings, sore skin, rashes, broken and varicose veins, bruises, and eczema.<br /><br />Out of these 18 herbal medicine chest essentials I have 10 which is pretty good going but I will make a trip to the nearest health food store to stock up on the others – you never know when they might come in handy. I would also add a pot of <A title="find out more about the wonder of tiger balm" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/11/wonder-of-tiger-balm.html">tiger balm</A> to this list for muscle aches and pains as well as <A title="find out more about the different variations of eucalyptus essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/05/eucalyptus-variations.html">eucalyptus essential oil</A> for steam inhalations.<br /><br />I found this list quite interesting and I will be looking in to some of the individual items in more detail in future posts. Some of them have already been discussed in more detail such as the <A title="Find out more about Arnica homeopathic remedy for bruises and sprains" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/08/arnica-homeopathic-remedy-for-bruises.html">arnica homeopathic pillules</A>, <A title="find out more about tea tree essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/08/essential-oil-of-week-tea-tree.html">tea tree</A>, <A title="find out more about lavender essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2008/08/essential-oil-of-week-lavender.html">lavender</A>, and <A title="find out more about the different variations of chamomile essential oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/06/which-chamomile.html">chamomile</A> essential oils.<br /><br />Ensure that you follow the directions carefully on any products you purchase and take note of any cautions. <br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/416e0ec6-d9e0-4cf7-aef6-1db79cbe84cf/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM-STYLE: none; BORDER-RIGHT-STYLE: none; BORDER-TOP-STYLE: none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-LEFT-STYLE: none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=416e0ec6-d9e0-4cf7-aef6-1db79cbe84cf"></A><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-26958574572291944792009-08-30T15:24:00.004+01:002009-08-30T15:37:25.827+01:00Carrier Oils for Your DoshaI was recently flicking through the little book <A title="view book on amazon" href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0751335630?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0751335630">Ayurveda (Secrets of...)</A><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" border=0 alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0751335630" width=1 height=1> by Gopi Warrier, Dr. Harish Verma, & Karen Sullivan. I came across a section which talked about massage – both dry and oil massage and how they should be used. It also talked about the various <A title="read all posts on carrier oils" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Carrier%20Oils">carrier oils</A> which are used in Ayurvedic <A title="read all posts on massage" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Massage">massage</A>. <br /><br />Three popular oils which are used in ayurvedic massage are olive, sesame and sunflower oil as these are all very nutritious oils and help aid the detoxification process when used on the skin in massage. The book goes on to say:<br /><BLOCKQUOTE>“Different oils are recommended for the different dosha types. For example, the best oil to use for vata type is good quality, cold-pressed sesame oil, which strengthens the skin and protects it from fungal infections and the harmful effects of the sun. If you find that this irritates your skin, use olive oil or sweet almond oil instead. Clarified butter (ghee) can also be used. Always heat the oil to body temperature before using it. Many more oils can be used, but the recommendations below are a good selection for your daily massage.<br /><STRONG>Vata types – </STRONG>Choose calming oils, including sesame, olive, almond, wheatgerm, and <A title="find out more about castor oil" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/2009/05/castor-oil.html">castor oil</A>.<br /><STRONG>Pitta types – </STRONG>Choose cooling oils, such as coconut, sandalwood, pumpkin seed, almond, and sunflower seed.<br /><STRONG>Kapha types –</STRONG> Choose burning oils. These include mustard, corn, and safflower.”</BLOCKQUOTE>From my understanding of Ayurveda, the belief is that we are comprised of three vital energies which are called doshas – vata, pitta, and kapha. Everyone consists of all three doshas but to varying degrees and tend to have maybe one or two dominant doshas. <BLOCKQUOTE>“Our dosha determines our constitution, preferences, personality traits, sleeping patterns, and even the foods we should eat.”</BLOCKQUOTE>When our doshas become unbalanced as we go through life due to stress, environment, diet etc we become ill. <br /><br />You can <A title="visit whatsyourdosha.com to take the quiz" href="http://www.whatsyourdosha.com/">find out what dosha you are</A> and more about them by taking a quiz. My dosha turned out to be vata. <br /><br /><strong>So by using the right carrier oil to suit your dosha can help to keep you in balance according to Ayurvedic philosophy.</strong><br /><br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/559a102b-7951-409e-a757-86c7f54ac08a/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM-STYLE: none; BORDER-RIGHT-STYLE: none; BORDER-TOP-STYLE: none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-LEFT-STYLE: none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=559a102b-7951-409e-a757-86c7f54ac08a"></A><SPAN class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><SCRIPT type="text/javascript" defer="defer" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js"></SCRIPT></SPAN></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5273872343380945807.post-54080048489010595052009-08-26T15:04:00.007+01:002009-08-26T15:18:48.883+01:00Hand Reflexology for Skin Conditions<DIV style="WIDTH: 200px" class="picture left"><IMG alt="Hand Reflexology for Skin Conditions" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE8FkA4uXpYme1QQlFtcHH57OnzGRsWwVScwT0JmRFHjFukC_8FWrZ_XZmfSqwnQLIPDvG3nMOuP9pgVdK5GyHKWpUcnqYPyR5o_2qqGrwiBcANuOfehfvXUvq5nVNHJZXFeNGha48Omzh/s200/hand+reflexology+for+skin+conditions.jpg"> <BR>Original photo by <A title="View winmayr's profile on flikr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/wimayr/">wimayr</A>.</DIV>"Our appearance reflects our inner health," says Ann Louise Gittleman, author of <A title="view book on Amazon" href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0062516280?ie=UTF8&tag=balaholiblog-21&linkCode=as2&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=0062516280">The Living Beauty Detox Program</A><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM: medium none; BORDER-LEFT: medium none; MARGIN: 0px; BORDER-TOP: medium none; BORDER-RIGHT: medium none" border=0 alt="" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.co.uk/e/ir?t=balaholiblog-21&l=as2&o=2&a=0062516280" width=1 height=1>."Very often, what we first see with skin, hair and nails is simply a reflection of inner imbalances."<br /><br /><STRONG><A title="read all posts on Reflexology" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Reflexology">Reflexology</A> can help to correct imbalances within the body and can be very beneficial for people who suffer with various <A title="read all posts on skin conditions" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Skin%20Conditions">skin conditions</A></STRONG> such as eczema, <A title="read all posts on psoriasis" href="http://balance-holistics.blogspot.com/search/label/Psoriasis">psoriasis</A>, acne, dermatitis, and rosacea to name a few.<br /><br />“Problems such as chronic acne, pimples or dryness often point to nutrient deficiencies.” says Ann Gittleman. <STRONG>The skin is the biggest organ of the body and requires a large amount of nutrients to keep it healthy and looking good. </STRONG><br /><br />Our supply of vitamins and minerals depends not only on our diet, but on how well our body is able to digest the food and drink we consume. Working on the digestive and elimination reflexes, such as the gall bladder, stomach, liver, spleen, intestines, kidneys, and oesphagus, can help to revitalize a sluggish digestive system, increase the circulation to the organs, help the absorption of vitamins and minerals, and help eliminate toxins and waste products from the body. <br /><br /><STRONG>Bringing the digestive system back in to balance not only improves its function, but also improves the health and function of the rest of the bodily systems including the skin.</STRONG> This in turn can help eliminate the skin conditions mentioned above.<br /><br /><STRONG>Some skin conditions can also be linked to stress and hormones </STRONG>so I would also suggest working on the adrenal and pituitary gland reflexes. It might also be worth working the reflexes where the skin condition is located, for instance, if you have psoriasis on your elbow, then work the elbow reflex.<br /><br />Most people associate reflexology with the feet but it can also be performed on the hands. I often advise my clients to work on specific reflex points on the hands in between their appointments with me. <STRONG>The picture above illustrates the reflexes on the hands which should be worked</STRONG> to help improve the absorption of nutrients and aid detoxification and improve the condition of the skin. Move your thumb in a caterpillar like motion over the reflexes in the direction of the arrows. On the circular points, press your thumb into the point, thumb bent and rotate in a clockwise direction.<br /><br />Apparently, <STRONG>the skin is the last organ of the body to receive nutrients </STRONG>from the food, drink and nutritional supplements consumed, so it is also advisable to apply a cream or oil which contains the anti-oxidant vitamins (vitamins A, C and E) to help improve the health of your skin.<br /><br /><STRONG>Performing this simple hand reflexology routine daily, in conjunction with a balanced healthy diet rich in the anti-oxidant vitamins, and plenty of water, will help improve the overall condition of your skin. </STRONG><br /><br /><DIV style="MARGIN-TOP: 10px; HEIGHT: 15px" class=zemanta-pixie><A class=zemanta-pixie-a title="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" href="http://reblog.zemanta.com/zemified/73506edc-68ea-442d-89f8-491c96ffbe58/"><IMG style="BORDER-BOTTOM-STYLE: none; BORDER-RIGHT-STYLE: none; BORDER-TOP-STYLE: none; FLOAT: right; BORDER-LEFT-STYLE: none" class=zemanta-pixie-img alt="Reblog this post [with Zemanta]" src="http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=73506edc-68ea-442d-89f8-491c96ffbe58"></A><span class="zem-script more-related pretty-attribution"><script type="text/javascript" src="http://static.zemanta.com/readside/loader.js" defer="defer"></script></span></DIV>Sarah Mortimerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17648804866146173914noreply@blogger.com0