My involvement with complementary therapies began in the ‘80s with my work as a health care journalist on national magazines. In the mid ‘90s, I trained to be a practitioner and have ITEC qualifications in Holistic Massage, Aromatherapy and Indian Head Massage, and an AOR qualification in Reflexology. I am also an instructor on the Massage in Schools Programme. I am currently undertaking an MA in Transpersonal Arts and Practice at the University of Chichester.

 

My first book on complementary therapies, The Art of Indian Head Massage, was published in 2000. It was translated into many languages including French, Spanish and Japanese. In 2005, I was invited to Tokyo to lecture at the Institute of Indian Head Massage in Japan and have maintained links with Japan. My other books include Hand and Foot Massage and A Practical Guide to Self-Massage. My latest book Healing Touch for Children, massage, reflexology and acupressure for children aged 4-12.

 

After two years working in the education department in a local hospice and also at a college of further education, I decided to set up my own training venture offering short courses and workshops for trained therapists and also beginners. It is always such a joy to work with like-minded people and, as you can see from the blog, courses are small and friendly with the emphasis on achieving learning within a supportive atmosphere. Students travel from all over the UK to attend. We have also shared ideas and skills with students from Japan and USA.

 

I have worked in a local hospice since 2000 and have personal experience of the many challenges and rewards facing therapists in this specialist field. My work in cancer and palliative care is underpinned by the Certificate in Working with People with Cancer from Penny Brohn Cancer Care. Many of my clients have been touched by cancer in some way and find that complementary therapy can offer great comfort and support.

 

On a personal note, I live in Chichester with my husband, our two daughters and our beautiful dog, Crumble.