“Growth is a rare phenomenon.  It is natural, yet rare.  When the seed has found its right soil, it grows.  It is very natural; growth is natural but to find the right soil - that is the very crux of the matter."

Osho, Discourses

(1931-1990)

Health and Wellness

I also work as part of the team at Funfit, Stapenhill, Burton on Trent. Funfit is Burton’s only dedicated personal training studio and provides pilates and personal training. All programmes are tailored to your individual needs. Life Balancing works with Funfit to keep mind, body and spirit in tip-top condition.

Newsletters

Spring 2008

The Relaxation Room

Thirsty?

Would you like to improve your memory and concentration, reduce daytime fatigue and nourish your skin?

Let us introduce you to an all-round miracle drink that can do wonders for your health…

Here are some of the other benefits that can be gained from this wonder-drink:

• Keeps headaches at bay.
• Reduces infections (including kidney and urinary tract infections).
• Prevents fluid retention.
• Helps remove toxins from your body.
• Aids circulation.
• Regulates your body’s cooling system.
• Improves muscle tone.
• Lubricates joints.
• Keeps bowels healthy.
• Essential for digestion and nutrient absorption.

It’s recommended that you drink 8 glasses of this miracle drink per day. 

And the name…  water.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation Technique

Tension can gradually creep into our body and mind without us realising it.  Where do you hold your tension?  In your neck, shoulders, back?  Try this simple technique to, firstly, identify where your tension is, and then, secondly, to release it. 

• Sit comfortably, with your feet flat on the floor and your back straight.  Rest you hands comfortably, possibly by placing them gently in your lap.
• Allow your mind to focus inwards for a moment or two.
• Be still and quiet.
• Take your focus to your toes.  Clench them tightly, then release.  Do this twice more.
• Now do this with your whole foot.  Clench both feet tightly, then release.  Do this a total of three times.
• Progress slowly up your body - shins, knees, thighs, buttocks, stomach, chest, back, hands, arms, shoulders, neck, jaw, face, brow. 
• You should now feel that all tension has been removed from your entire body.  If you still feel tension anywhere, revisit that area – tensing and relaxing.
• Now take your focus to the centre of your forehead, and imagine you are tensing the thoughts in your mind.  Tense and release, until your mind is relaxed.
• Whenever you feel ready, take a couple of deep breaths, centre yourself, and get on with your day feeling revitalised and refreshed.

Counting the Breath

Breathe in for the count of 4 – focussing your attention on the in-breath and each number. Breathe in to your abdomen (not your chest).

Hold your breath for the count of 4.

Exhale for the count of 4.

Pause for the count of 4 before inhaling again.

Do this for 5 minutes a day at first, slowly increasing to 10 or 15-minute sessions. This can help to still your mind and give an overall feeling of calm and balance.

If you find that counting to 4 is too uncomfortable, try counting to 2. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can count to 6, 8, 12, etc. See what feels right for you.

The Inner Smile

Our journey through life can sometimes be stressful – let’s face it, it’s not all soft music and candles!  Similarly, our journey on the roads can include delays, traffic jams, road-rage – need I go on?  I’m sure you will agree, it’s not the ideal situation to be in.

Here is a little exercise – the inner smile - that will help you maintain (or restore) a sense of calm behind the wheel:

And don’t forget to plan your journey time to allow for delays and parking hassle, and then it won’t be so stressful when it happens. 

Smile – it suits you!