Hello Monday- Autumn is here!

Leave a comment

We’ve woken up to a misty, cool air morning here in Exeter, Devon. Autumn is definitely here and I am looking forward to seeing what patterns occur in my Shiatsu treatments this week.

There are particular Meridians – lines of energy- that relate to each season. When the seasons change often the focus of my treatments changes too.

Autumn is the time that relates to the Lung and Large Intestine Meridians. This is the time to let go and move on.

Both these Meridians are related to the element of Metal. They are around the emotional issues of grief and personal boundaries, along with clarity of mind.

To get going this week – and to get going with Autumn – below is a stretch for the Lung and Large Intestine Meridians. To begin to get into the feel and idea of the Autumn energy.

As with all stretching go gently, listen to your body, don’t push it and warm up and warm down.

Great Shiatsu stretch for Autumn

These two Meridians also enjoy cardiovascular exercise- so get out in the fresh air for a walk. Doesn’t have to be long or fast, choose your pace, listen to your body.

You may also want to do some cleaning and organising (you are not obliged to!) Getting things organised or scrubbing your cupboards is in time with the Metal element and these Meridians.

Have a good week whatever you are getting up to. I’m always here for advice on individual exercises and recommendation.

Xx

Shiatsu, Anxiety and Feeling Off Balance

Leave a comment

2020 has been a year to test us all. So many changes and uncertainties – and it doesn’t look like it’s going to ease up any time soon.

It’s not a surprise that many people are feeling off balance, stressed and anxious. The pandemic has affected everyone’s personal life in some way, be it concern for one’s self or a family member’s health, financial difficulties, work uncertainties or excessive work and stress.

A lot of my work is supporting people through tough times – helping them manage symptoms of anxiety, along with stress and depression at times.

Shiatsu is a naturally supportive therapy and I’ve created a safe and secure environment. It’s a space where clients can connect to their feelings and concerns without any pressure or expectation.

Here is the story of one of my recent clients Shiatsu journey.

The client was feeling anxious a lot of the time and suffering with panic attacks. This in turn was negetively affecting their appetite, with lack of nutrition the mental distress became worse and the cycle continued.

The client arrived for their first session of Shiatsu in a heightened level of anxiety.

I worked on balancing the energy in the body, supporting a good flow throughout. I worked on calming and supporting the central nervous system and settling the mind.

After the first session the client’s anxiety levels were more manageable. Although they still had some panic attacks they were much less frequent.

I continued to support the flow of energy in the body, along with boosting their energy levels and settling the mind and nervous system.

After two sessions the client’s anxiety was completely manageable. Then after a couple more sessions the panic attacks eased completely.

I also focused on the client’s digestive system which now works more smoothly and appetite levels have become consistent. I suggested probiotics to support the gut. With weight gain and better digestion the client feels calmer and in control of their situation.

Throughout the process we looked at gentle exercises and life-style changes that would support a calmer mind and body. For instance I suggested walking barefoot outside, a great grounding exercise, bringing energy and attention away from the mind.

At the moment I am offering normal Shiatsu sessions with at least 45 minutes hands-on work. I have extra measures in place, following government guidance, to ensure my practice is Covid safe.

Right now I’m also offering face to face appointments with no hands-on work – a Shiatsu support session. These sessions are for exploring a client’s anxiety and why they feel off balance. They involve discussion and then suggestions of exercises and lifestyle changes that may help alleviate symptoms.

If you are feeling nervous about getting close to others then a face to face support session may work for you.

If you are self-isolating, or want to stay at home, but still need support then I am offering video Shiatsu support sessions. These, again, involve a discussion and then suggestions of self-shiatsu that may help, along with suggested exercises and lifestyle changes.

I am able to create individual videos for clients, showing exercises and Shiatsu points that may help them specifically.

I take great pleasure in watching clients begin to be back in control of their emotions and their situation. Then there are more possibilities and options open to the client and change can take place

If you would like to know more about how Shiatsu maybe able to support you then get in touch. 07791 070837 amyhinkswright@yahoo.co.uk

Cold Remedies for Adults, Kids and Babies – Shiatsu in Exeter

Leave a comment

My kids have already caught a cold at school – just 7 days in they were sniffing and had sore throats.

Obviously we checked that the symptoms were not Covid ones and followed all the correct procedures.

The cold has passed now and they are back to their usual rambunctious selves.

We use a number of natural remedies to support colds in our house. Good old lemon and honey, lots of vitamin C rich foods, turmeric, ginger and garlic. We keep out fluids up with plenty of water, warmed slightly if needs be.

Also I use Shiatsu to support the immune system, clear the sinuses and boost the body’s energy.

I work the Lung and Large Intestine Meridians- lines of energy – that help support the lungs, chest, sinuses, nose and throat.

My favourite point this week has been Lung 7…..

Lung 7 – to support colds, sinusitis, difficulty breathing

It’s quite an easy point to find as its between a tendon and a bone – run your finger down the line towards your wrist – until you hit a natural depression – then you’ve found it.

Gently hold the point with a thumb of finger – see if you can feel what pressure it requires. Intention is important when giving Shiatsu so you may want to think about loosening the sinuses and throat or opening the lungs to allow deep breaths of air in.

This point is good for lung health, colds, sinus issues, asthma, breathing difficulties.

I’m always happy to show people how to locate and use points and can pull together a specific set to suit individual needs.

Lung 7 – good for colds, sinusitis, asthma, breathing difficulties

The weather is still very warm – and summer-like. As this changes, soon, more and more colds and coughs are going to appear. Building up and supporting our immune system is going to be so important.

So get going with ensuring your diet and lifestyle is healthy. Also get in touch if you think Shiatsu can help support you and your family.

Shiatsu and Business as Usual

Leave a comment

I have come to enjoy airing the Shiatsu Shed between appointments. Watching the curtains move in the breeze and observing the quick shift in energy in the room brings me a deep level of satisfaction.

There is no denying that there is more work to be done – to keep my practice Covid safe. I’m not so keen on the vast amount of washing, so I make the most of the airing.

As best as possible it is business as usual now. The kids go back to school next week and there will be space, for the first time in six months.

I can begin to see more clients and focus more on my beloved Shiatsu business.

I have really appreciated the loyalty of my clients, calling to come back before I was even allowed to begin practicing again.

I have all the extra measures in place to ensure the space is as safe as possible. Plus I have worked hard to keep a relaxing and supportive environment.

So now back to it!

Xx