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Seeking a Happier You in 2024…Minus the Unreachable Goals!

As we look ahead to a new year, it’s natural to contemplate the changes we wish to make in our lives. I find myself doing it ALL the time; I can’t help it. Traditionally, resolutions and goals have taken centre stage for many of us, often focusing on rigid objectives that may lead to more stress than improvement. I am talking from experience when I say that some of the ridiculous expectations we put on ourselves every time January comes round can actually do more harm than good. Perhaps it’s time to consider a different approach for 2024: setting good intentions. I love this idea, but let’s explore it a bit more…

Intentions are like gentle nudges guiding us toward positive actions and a more mindful existence. Rather than fixating on specific outcomes (like going to the gym seven times a week…seriously??), intentions invite us to cultivate a mindset that fosters overall well-being. This shift from rigid resolutions to flexible intentions may be the key to unlocking a healthier and happier version of who we want to be. It’s also about us all being just that little kinder to ourselves; we don’t do that enough in modern-day culture, and that needs to change. A shift of some kind needs to happen.

One significant advantage of setting intentions is the emphasis on the journey rather than the destination. When we focus solely on goals, the pressure to achieve them can become overwhelming, leading to burnout and disappointment if they are not met precisely. Intentions, on the other hand, encourage us to enjoy the process of growth and self-discovery. It’s about acknowledging that life is full of twists and turns, and the journey itself is often more meaningful than the final outcome. It also gives us the opportunity to enjoy the process rather than experiencing months of misery in the hope of feeling happy at the end of it…if we reach the end of it, that is. If we don’t, then what was it all for?

Self-compassion is a crucial element in the world of intentions. Instead of constantly criticising ourselves for perceived shortcomings or unmet goals, intentions prompt us to practice self-care and kindness. This might involve recognising our efforts, no matter how small, and celebrating progress rather than fixating on perfection. By embracing self-compassion, we create a more nurturing environment for personal development and mental well-being.

Incorporating self-care into your intentions for 2024 is a practical step towards holistic health. This doesn’t necessarily mean elaborate spa days or expensive retreats (although don’t rule them out, of course!) – it’s about carving out time for activities that rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. It could be as simple as dedicating a few moments each day to deep breathing, going for walks, or engaging in a hobby that brings you joy. The cumulative effect of these small acts of self-care can be transformative, fostering a positive mindset that ripples through all aspects of your life. Resolutions can be rigid, often overlooking the unforeseen challenges that may arise without prior warning. This adaptability reduces the stress associated with rigid goal-setting and promotes a mindset that is open to learning and growth, no matter the circumstances. It is a beautiful thing that we can all build from.

Another benefit of setting intentions is the encouragement of mindfulness. Intentions prompt us to be present in the moment, fostering a deeper connection with our thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. Mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and enhance overall well-being. By weaving mindfulness into your intentions, you’re not only setting the stage for a healthier 2024 but also cultivating a valuable skill that can positively impact various aspects of your life. Mindfulness has become a massive part of my life in recent years, and it’s something that I would love others to embrace, too; it really is life-changing as it brings with it happiness and contentment.

As we welcome in 2024, let’s consider a shift in our approach to personal development; instead of fixating on resolutions and goals, let’s embrace the power of intentions. After all, the journey is just as important as the destination…it may be a little cheesy, but there is no denying that it holds a whole lot of truth. Why not give it a go and see if it works for you? What have you got to lose?

The Art of Holistic Facials: A Journey to Self-Care

In a world that often feels like a never-ending whirlwind of responsibilities and deadlines, finding time to care for ourselves can seem like a distant dream. Yet, self-care is not a luxury but a necessity for our overall well-being. We all need to remember this. One way to embrace self-care is through holistic facials, a transformative experience that goes beyond the surface to nourish your mind, body, and soul. In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of holistic facials, exploring what sets them apart from regular facials and why they should be an essential part of your self-care routine. Let’s go…

What Makes a Facial Holistic?

At first glance, a holistic facial may seem like a typical spa treatment, but it’s far more profound than that. Holistic facials take a comprehensive approach by considering the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. Unlike standard facials that primarily focus on cleansing and rejuvenating the skin, holistic facials integrate natural healing techniques and customised treatments to address your unique needs. It ticks all the boxes on your self-care checklist.

The Essence of Self-Care

Imagine stepping into a serene, softly lit room where soothing aromas envelop you, and calming music lulls your senses into tranquillity. This is the atmosphere that sets the stage for a holistic facial. It’s not just about skincare; it’s about taking a break from the chaos of life and reconnecting with yourself. I say it all the time, but this is a necessity, NOT a luxury; we all need this in our lives.

One of the primary reasons holistic facials should be considered self-care is the emphasis on relaxation and mindfulness. As women juggle various roles and responsibilities, we often forget the importance of self-love and nurturing. A holistic facial provides the perfect opportunity to unwind, destress, and recharge. It sounds like bliss because it is; that is guaranteed.

A Personalised Experience

One of the key distinctions between holistic facials and regular facials lies in their personalised approach. Holistic practitioners understand that every woman is unique, and so are her needs. During a facial, the therapist will listen to your concerns, and tailor the treatment accordingly.

This individualised approach encompasses various healing techniques. Depending on your needs and preferences, a holistic facial may include massage, hand reflexology, or even lymphatic drainage techniques. The goal is to address surface-level concerns and promote overall well-being.

Benefits of Holistic Facials

The benefits of holistic facials extend far beyond glowing skin. They prioritise the use of natural, organic products that are gentle on your skin and the environment. You can feel good about the ingredients used during the treatment. Here are some of the other remarkable advantages that make them a must-try for women of all ages:

Stress Reduction and Emotional Balance: Holistic facials prioritise relaxation, making them an effective tool for reducing stress and anxiety. The gentle touch of a skilled practitioner can release tension, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and at peace. They often include relaxation techniques that help balance your emotions and promote a sense of well-being. Many women find them to be a mood-enhancing experience.

Improved Skin Health and Enhanced Blood Circulation: While regular facials focus on external skincare, holistic facials take a holistic approach (sounds obvious, I know) to enhance your skin from within. Facial massage and acupressure techniques used in holistic facials can boost blood circulation, leading to a healthier complexion and a radiant glow.

Self-Care Ritual and Self-Love: Incorporating holistic facials into your self-care routine can remind you to prioritise your well-being. It’s a moment to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of life and connect with yourself. Treatments such as this are the perfect opportunity to do that.

Who Can Benefit?

Holistic facials are suitable for women of all ages, from those in their twenties to their sixties and beyond. Whether you’re a young professional dealing with the stress of a demanding career or a mature woman looking to relax and slow the pace down.

When it comes to holistic therapies, it is never a one-size-fits-all approach, and I tailor what I offer to your individual needs.

You Deserve It…

In a world that constantly demands our time and energy, it’s crucial to carve out moments for self-care. Holistic facials offer more than just a skincare treatment; they provide a holistic experience that nurtures your mind, body, and soul. It sounds a bit cheesy, but it does what it says on the tin and works. By embracing the personalised approach of holistic facials, women of all ages can embark on a journey to self-care, leaving behind the stresses of life and embracing the beauty of inner and outer well-being…well, that’s the aim!

So, why not treat yourself to a holistic facial and discover the transformative power of self-care? You deserve it.

Are you counting down the days until your summer vacation, ready to soar through the skies to your dream destination? But wait! Maybe you dread the sinus issues and blocked ears that often accompany long-haul flights? I did once upon a time, so I can relate. Please don’t worry, though, because I’ve got a solution for you – my Lymphatic Facial. Imagine stepping off the plane, ready to embark on your adventure with a spring in your step because you actually enjoyed your flight…discomfort-free! I know it is unheard of but bear with me on this.

Let’s dive straight into why this natural (and pretty enjoyable, if I do say so myself) remedy will be your new best friend during that dreaded flight.

1. Farewell Jet Lag. Hello Blissful Flight!

The ultimate mood spoiler after a long-haul flight is always jet lag. Yep, we have all been there. During those hours in the air, our bodies can experience reduced lymph fluid circulation, leading to dreaded jet lag symptoms. It puts a real downer on those first few days of hols.

The Lymphatic Bowen massage can often change that, and I have successfully helped many people to combat it. The slow and gentle rhythmic hand movements of this facial and all over the body target the lymphatic system unclogging the lymphatic vessels, allowing the free flow of lymph fluid throughout the body. This increased lymph fluid circulation is a natural jet lag treatment technique, significantly reducing the swellings, jet lag symptoms, and effects. It is like a miracle cure and also feels pretty good at the same time.

Taking large water quantities post-procedure benefits jet lag treatment recovery. In fact, I recommend that long-haul travellers take a minimum of 1.5 litres of water before and after treatment. For many, this natural remedy works wonders to combat the effects of jet lag, leaving you bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, ready to embrace your holiday with gusto!

2. De-Puff Like a Pro

Let’s face it – spending hours cooped up in an aeroplane seat can make our body parts feel a bit like inflatable balloons. And boy, do our lymphatic vessels feel it too! Due to little or no activity, long-haul flights may cause body part swelling, especially feet, hands, neck, and ankles. This lack of activity causes low lymph fluid circulation in the body, draining the lymph fluid into the body tissues and clogging the lymph vessels. The consequences of which are the swellings experienced in the various body parts during a long-haul flight. Holidays are great, but the travel part isn’t always a bed of roses.

But here’s where the Lymphatic Bowen massage steps in. With the help of a skilled practitioner (hello, over here!) and a little H2O, your body’s lymphatic system gets a boost like never before. The fluid starts flowing freely once more, and the result? Zero puffiness! So, get ready to stride off that plane looking fresh and fabulous. Ok, I can’t promise that, but as close as we can get is still good, right?

3. Unleash the Power of Hydration

Remember that hydration is the name of the game when it comes to flying and lymphatic drainage. Before any lymphatic massage treatment, make sure to hydrate yourself properly with at least 1.5 litres of water. Keeping hydration a priority post-procedure is so important; I can’t recommend it enough if you want to see the best possible outcome. Preparing your body for that refreshing post-treatment glow should become a pre-flight ritual! Sip on those fluids like you’re on vacation…because you will be very soon! And then you can switch it for a cocktail once you are around the pool.

Proper hydration ensures a speedy recovery from jet lag and ensures that the lymph fluid keeps flowing…keeping those pesky swellings at bay. I know I harp on about water, but it is pretty amazing stuff – and it’s free!

4. Sinus Saviour

Ah, sinus issues – the ultimate enemy of the aeroplane traveller and one of the worse side effects of long-haul flights. As if the pressure changes during take-off and landing aren’t enough, blocked ears are a nightmare, forever trying to pop them by sucking on a boiled sweet…does that ever really work? But often, Lymphatic Facial can come to the rescue once again!

By targeting the lymphatic system, this facial helps to relieve congestion in your sinuses, allowing them to drain and alleviate the dreaded ear-blocking sensation. So that’s three great reasons to consider a lymphatic drainage massage as your pre-holiday treat – you deserve it.

Time to get yourself booked in…

There you have it, folks – the Lymphatic massage, your knight in shining armour for those summer holidays and beyond. With its ability to combat jet lag, reduce swelling, and relieve sinus issues, it’s no wonder that savvy travellers are raving about this natural remedy.

Before you hop on that plane, make sure to book yourself a lymphatic facial and reap all these fantastic benefits. Remember, your lymphatic system is the unsung hero of your body, and it deserves some extra love and attention, especially during those long-haul flights. When preparing to jet off to a faraway paradise, add this wonderful treatment to your pre-travel checklist. Trust me; your body will thank you, and your vacation will be all the more fabulous for it.

Have a fantastic journey and an unforgettable summer holiday!

Embracing Holistic Therapy: A Pathway to Wellness
Welcome to a blog post that will take you on an exciting journey into the world of holistic therapy. I wanted to explore what it means to be holistic and uncover why it’s worth considering for your own well-being. So, kick back, relax, and let’s dive in.
When we talk about something being holistic, we’re referring to a comprehensive approach that considers the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. It’s all about recognizing that we are complex beings with interconnected aspects that influence our overall health and well-being. Rather than simply treating symptoms, a holistic approach focuses on identifying the underlying causes of an ailment and addressing them in a holistic manner. I love everything about it.
Now, let’s talk about holistic therapy itself. It encompasses a diverse range of healing practices that complement conventional medicine. These therapies emphasize the balance and harmony between mind, body, and spirit, aiming to promote overall well-being rather than solely targeting symptoms. Holistic therapists approach their work with an open mind, recognizing the uniqueness of each individual and tailoring treatments to suit their specific needs. And that’s why one of the first things a holistic therapist should do – yep, me! – is to get to know their clients and understand their needs and the best way to reach their goals.

Why Consider Holistic Therapy?
Holistic therapy treats the root cause of a problem, unlike traditional medicine, which often just treats symptoms, holistic therapy digs deeper to identify the root causes of your illness or ailment. It understands that our bodies are interconnected systems, and imbalances in one area can manifest as symptoms in another. By addressing the underlying causes, holistic therapy aims to bring long-lasting relief and healing. There are many reasons to choose this path, so let’s explore them…
Empowerment and active participation – holistic therapy recognizes that you are an ‘active participant’ in your healing journey. It empowers you to take charge of your own well-being by providing you with the knowledge, tools, and techniques to make informed decisions about your health. Through holistic therapy, you become an active partner in your healing process, fostering a sense of ownership and self-empowerment. For many, this is exciting and extremely rewarding!
Individualized approach – holistic therapists, such as myself, understand that no two individuals are the same. They take the time to get to know you, your unique circumstances, and your goals for wellness. This personalised approach allows them to tailor treatments specifically to your needs, ensuring you receive the most effective and appropriate care.
Complementary to conventional medicine – holistic therapy doesn’t seek to replace traditional medical approaches; instead, it complements them. Many find that combining conventional medicine with holistic therapies brings the best outcomes. By integrating these approaches, you can benefit from the strengths of both, embracing a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to your health. No, we aren’t ‘bashers’ of conventional medicine; we love to work alongside it.
Fostering balance and wellness – holistic therapy strongly emphasises achieving balance within the body, mind, and spirit. It encourages practices such as meditation, yoga, acupuncture, nutrition, and other natural remedies that support and restore equilibrium. By nurturing balance and wellness on multiple levels, holistic therapy helps to enhance your overall quality of life.

But is it the right path for you?
In a world where we often rush to find quick fixes for our health issues, holistic therapy offers a refreshing perspective—a comprehensive approach that embraces the whole person.
Next time you find yourself grappling with an illness or ailment, consider exploring the realm of holistic therapy. Embrace the power of holistic healing, and unlock the potential for lasting wellness and harmony within yourself. You deserve a holistic approach to your well-being because you are more than just a sum of your symptoms. Take that first step towards a healthier, more balanced you, and open yourself up to the possibilities of holistic healing.
Whether you’re seeking relief from physical pain, battling stress and anxiety, or simply looking to enhance your overall well-being, holistic therapy offers many options. However, it is not a quick fix or a one-size-fits-all solution; it’s a journey of self-discovery and self-care that requires patience, dedication, and an open mind. So, be open to finding a practitioner you resonate with and trusting in your body’s wisdom. If you want to take control of your health, holistic therapy will empower you to participate in the healing process…in your own way!

Lymphatic Bowen Massage: What’s All The Fuss About?
Have you heard about the latest trend in the health and wellbeing world? Yes. It is changing daily, but there is one hot topic right now, and everyone wants a piece of the action. Lymphatic massage is at the top of everyone’s ‘must-have’ treatment list, and it is obvious why. Of course, I am biased, but there are many reasons why I chose to offer this treatment, and I am so excited that it is now receiving the recognition it deserves. I am sure many of you are still scratching your heads, unsure what it means and whether it is a beneficial treatment. So, let’s take a look…
What is your lymphatic drainage system?
In a nutshell, the lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste, and other unwanted materials. It is one of your body’s most essential and powerful systems for a properly functioning immune system, good organ health, vitality, and movement. One of its primary roles is to help us fight infection. If it is not working correctly, it can trigger unexplained aches, pains and swellings, not to mention reduced sleep and concentration levels.
The lymphatic system primarily consists of lymphatic vessels, similar to the circulatory system’s veins and capillaries. The vessels are connected to lymph nodes, where the lymph is filtered and returned back into your circulatory system. During this filtering process, the lymph nodes remove any damaged cells – so you can see the importance. Our bodies have about 600 lymph nodes and keeping them all working as they should is essential. That’s where lymphatic massage can help. Ok, biology lesson over!
What is lymphatic Bowen massage?
Lymphatic Bowen massage is amazing! It is a specialised form of therapeutic massage often used for detoxification and helping to boost the immune system. Clients find it useful for all types of swelling, fluid retention, inflammation and sinus problems…the list is endless, which is why it is so popular.
This massage therapy technique uses very light pressure to encourage drainage of the lymph fluid that accumulates after trauma to the lymphatic system. The gentle, rhythmic movements of the massage follow the direction of lymph flow. The therapist sends leaked lymphatic fluid toward nearby lymph nodes; the nodes then empty it into the bloodstream. Celebrities – and us ‘normal’ people alike – love it because aside from all the fantastic health benefits, the whole process is excellent for decreasing excess fluid in our bodies and reducing general bloating. Does it cause weight loss? No. But does it feel good, are you left feeling relaxed? Absolutely!
Without proper care and attention, our bodies cannot keep up with the toxins and stressors that modern life throws at us. Lymphatic Bowen massage helps our bodies cope with the daily challenges we all face, something everyone needs and deserves.
Post-op benefits…
With the increased knowledge of the benefits of lymphatic massage post-op, doctors frequently recommend it – if not insist on it – as part of a patient’s recovery. It can help speed up healing by reducing post-surgical swelling, particularly after procedures like liposuction and tummy tucks. Along with the reduction in swelling, massage can also improve the appearance of scar tissue and generally makes a patient feel amazing; this is a massive part of any recovery process.
A lymphatic Bowen massage treatment pre-op and post-op can promote detoxification, reduce fluid retention, help accelerate healing, and could, for many, help minimise pain, bruising and scarring. I could go on, but I think it’s obvious why more and more people are turning to it to aid recovery.
But Is It For You…?
Now can you see why lymphatic massage has become the next big thing? Not only has it got 101 health benefit for all of us who don’t have health complications, but doctors also recommend it following surgery; it says a lot when the experts start insisting on it! There is a benefit for anyone and everyone.
If you are wondering whether lymphatic Bowen massage could benefit you, then it’s a no-brainer.
If you want to give it a go, why not book yourself in? With Mother’s Day just around the corner, it could also be a little present to yourself…you deserve it. Lymphatic Bowen massage in Cambridgeshire. (nickynewtonbowentherapist.com)

This 2022 Mental Health Day, we should all spend some time reviewing our personal mental well-being, and how our physical and mental wellbeing tie in together. We often think of these aspects as separate and forget how intertwined our mental health and physical health really are.

How Bowen Therapy can help

Mental health issues often manifest into physical pains and issues, such as back ache, neck tension migraines and IBS, just to name a few. As Bowen Therapy is designed to work by acknowledging the link between our mind and body, it’s the ideal treatment for mental health problems, such as anxiety.

Bowen Therapy is a holistic, hands-on type of therapy which is non-invasive and completely drug-free. It’s performed through small rolling movements that are made on the body. For example, over muscles tendons, ligaments and soft tissues. The aim is to encourage the body to recognise what’s going on and address it rather than forcing it to change. After treatment, clients often come away feeling more relaxed and lighter. With the release of toxins from the body many feel healthier and calmer.

Bowen Therapy and anxiety

Around 8 million people in the UK have some form of anxiety disorder. It’s one of the most common mental health issues around the world.

Our anxiety is our body’s response to external situations or stimulants. That’s why Bowen Therapy can be highly effective in the treatment of anxiety.

Those with anxiety often have a racing mind which they struggle to slow down due to the stress and busy-ness of our modern lives. Through Bowen Therapy treatment, our nervous system is able to exist in a more balanced parasympathetic and sympathetic state. This is the ideal state for our body to heal itself, for example in terms of our digestion.

If you struggle with anxiety, Bowen Therapy might be the answer for you.

How much do Nicky Newton treatments cost?

All of my treatments are £50 per session and last between 45-60 minutes. At the start of each treatment I will carry out a consultation to enable you to discuss any changes. We will discuss your physical and emotional well-being and from this I will ensure your treatment is tailored to you.

For babies and those under 16, treatment times will vary depending on the child. All treatments are £15.

To find out how Nicky Bowen Therapy could help you, get in touch today by clicking here.

In general terms, having a holistic approach means looking at something as a whole entity; understanding the bigger picture. In healthcare, a holistic approach means to provide support that looks at the whole person, not just their specific need at the time. It considers their physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing.

According to the holistic medicine philosophy, one can achieve optimal health – the primary goal of holistic medicine practice – by gaining proper balance in life.

Practitioners believe that the whole person is made up of interdependent parts and if one is not working properly, all the other parts will be affected. So, if people have imbalances in their lives e.g. physically or emotionally, it can negatively affect their overall health.

History of holistic therapy

Clinical holistic medicine dates as far back as Hippocrates. It was also suggested by Percival in his book – the first textbook of medical ethics, first published in 1803. Percival stated: “The feeling and emotions of the patients require to be known and to be attended to, no less than the symptoms of their diseases.”

Types of treatments in a holistic approach

Holistic practitioners use a variety of treatment techniques to help their patients achieve optimal health. These may include:

• Patient education on lifestyle changes and self-care to promote wellness. This can include diet, exercise, counselling, and more.
• Alternative therapies such as acupuncture, homeopathy, naturopathy, Bowen therapy and lymphatic drainage.

For example, when a person suffering headaches pays a visit to a holistic therapist, instead of walking out only with medication, the doctor will look at all the potential factors that might be causing the headaches, such as other health problems, diet and sleep habits, and personal problems. The treatment plan may work alongside any medication that the person has been prescribed by their doctor.

Although holistic health has been around for years, it’s a fresh concept to many. But it’s increasing in popularity worldwide and has been strongly advocated by the Royal College of General Practitioners for many years. If you are someone who has a health condition it might be time to have a chat with your local holistic therapist. Please get in touch to find out more.

Bowen Therapy is a gentle, hands-on therapy in which subtle moves are made over connective tissue, muscles, tendons and ligaments, prompting your body to make changes. These changes could be physical, emotional, or psychological, in order to trigger positive improvements in your health and well-being.

This therapy uses precise and gentle rolling hand movements applied to areas of the body, using thumbs and fingers in a specific process or order. It’s designed to stimulate nervous pathways which allow a ‘conversation’ to take place between different nervous systems of the body.

The history of Bowen Therapy

The technique was created by Thomas Ambrose Bowen in Australia, who claimed the therapy could reset the body’s pain response. After serving in World War II, Tom Bowen became interested in discovering ways to relieve pain in the human body. He noticed that certain movements made the body respond in a positive way.

He spent years refining and developing the effectiveness of his newfound treatment. As the popularity grew, it was not uncommon for Tom to treat up to 100 people per day in his clinic. In 1993, the Bowen Technique was brought to the UK. Since then, thousands of people have discovered the power of Bowen and have had their lives transformed by the treatment.

What is Bowen Therapy used for?

Bowen Therapy is used to treat various ailments. Generally, it can help to relieves pain such as back pain, shoulder and neck pain.

Additionally, some people find that Bowen Therapy helps with stress, fatigue, depression & anxiety, and flexibility.

What to expect during a session

A Bowen therapy session usually lasts 30 minutes to 1 hour. If preferred, the treatment can be given through light clothing.

The number of treatments varies from person to person, but if you have a long-standing injury, you will typically require more treatments than someone whose injuries have recently occurred. Most people will start to experience the positive effects of Bowen therapy immediately after their first treatment.

After your session, you will be given post-treatment instructions. Your symptoms might change during the treatment, after the session, or several days later, as the body will continue the ‘conversation’ up to 5-10 days after the treatment.

Typically for long-standing injuries and pain, clients will require 3 treatments, up to two weeks apart followed by a maintenance program that is designed by you and the therapist.