Spring is in the air....

 The first leaf buds are appearing on the trees, the early spring flowers are beginning to show their petals, and every now and then there's a day that brings a warm breeze, sunshine, and a promise of things to come. Then it rains again and it's back to walking the dog in the mud....

Just a short post today. My hours and prices remain the same for the foreseeable future.

Things to share:

For those who have lost their life partners, it is such a hard time (with no time limit) to navigate and often there is the feeling that no one else quite understands. Someone I know who was widowed seven years ago is involved in a peer group offering support and has asked for everyone he knows to share the details:

https://www.thewidowedcollective.com

On a completely different subject, here is an interesting article on plantar faciitis:

https://www.theguardian.com/wellness/2026/jan/26/plantar-fasciitis-causes-treatments-prevention

Hello, 2026!

 Well, it's been a while since I last posted! I hope that Christmas and New Year were kind to you.

Personal events rather took over in the autumn, and I have taken time off to process them. It's been a powerful reminder of the effect grief can have on the physical body, as what we feel emotionally is always experienced and processed physically as well. 

As part of looking after myself I follow my natural urge to hibernate at this time of year, going to bed early. I do also rise early, often before 6am; I find I enjoy the quiet early mornings but struggle with the dark evenings and I decided a few years ago to work with my body rather than battle it. Part of my morning involves standing outside the back door for a few moments, usually at first light but sometimes whilst it is still dark on particularly beautiful nights; I like to connect with the sounds, aromas, the light and feel of the day this way, in a way that we can't from inside a house. I find it very grounding and soothing.

Housekeeping: I am keeping my prices the same for the time being, with no plans to increase them at present. Do remember to bring a large clean towel to your appointment, and please rearrange or cancel if you find you are poorly. So many illnesses are keen to spread themselves at this time of year, and close contact work is an excellent opportunity for them to do so! 

Listening recommendation: RED-S, or Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport, was a topic on Woman's Hour on BBC R4 last week that is well worth a listen. As they say on the programme, it's no longer just elite athletes that are affected and often the person who has RED-S will seem very healthy and a good weight so it can be difficult to detect. If not addressed, it can lead to serious health issues.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m002nvc5 

I wish you good health and contentment in 2026.