SchoolofCT

The School of Complementary Therapies

The Easy Way to Choose Happy & Get Healthy

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Do you ever sit and daydream? Imagining living the Happy Life? Making pictures in your mind’s eye about…

  • living with higher self-confidence and self-worth
  • enjoying better health and great sleep
  • having more energy
  • achieving your goals
  • becoming popular and having lots of friends
  • achieving more of what you truly want
  • balancing the different areas of your life
  • being truly Happy!

If you can do any of the above, you can begin to improve your life and Choose Happy with hypnotherapy! Really! Let me tell you how…

Hypnotherapy is a Complementary Alternate Medicine therapy that allows you to reach levels of deep relaxation. When you are relaxed the conscious and the sub-conscious mind are very close together. You simply have to relax and think of new ways of being for your mind to make changes.

My aim is to help you help yourself.

Hypnotherapy is not about one person controlling another’s mind, but about a sensitive and caring relationship developed between therapist and client, in which a true understanding of each client’s goals, ideals and objectives are established. I am dedicated to helping each client achieve their objectives in the shortest possible time, in accord with their best interests.

Hypnotherapy or Clinical Hypnosis can be used to help in an almost unlimited number of ways, and is especially useful in behavior modification (big words that mean ‘changing your habits’):

  • relaxing,
  • relieving anxiety and depression,
  • quit smoking,
  • changing eating habits,
  • overcoming fears and phobias,
  • improving memory and study habits
  • and much more.

My studies in hypnotherapy have led me to believe it to be one of the simplest tools of change we can use. Currently,  I am working with clients who have anxiety, depression, phobias, weight issues and sleep problems. Each and every one is feeling better using hypnotherapy! And that is how to Choose Happy!

Hypnotherapy can allow you to escape from your typical patterns of response and behavior, allowing you to achieve greater flexibility and choice.

It works by allowing you to relax deeply, so giving you the ability to choose new ways of doing, being and thinking, without being controlled by past experiences.

I want you to be able to achieve your objectives and Choose Happy in the shortest possible time, with your best interests in mind.

When you make an appointment with me because you are ready to feel better in any area of your life, whether it body, mind, emotions or spirit, hypnotherapy is one thing we consider. Sessions are personalized and highly enjoyable experiences.

Thank you for being ready to change and ready to Choose Happy. I look forward to helping you achieve your full potential! To make an appointment to try a hypnotherapy session or begin a series of life-changing sessions, please contact me.

Wellness with Color

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Tips for Using Color as a Healing Therapy

I don’t believe I have to convince anyone that color has an impact of our lives. Color has long been researched, especially by those in marketing, for the impact it has on us. But did you know that it has also been researched as a healing art. Let me tell you more.

Human beings have been using light and light color sources for healing since time has been recorded. However, the foundations of our modern color theories are attributed to Sir Isaac Newton (1642-1727) with his famous prism experiments. By shining white light through a prism we can see the seven color band of the rainbow: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet. Each of these colors vibrates to a different frequency and the brain interprets this vibration as color. Pretty cool stuff!

We actually record color as sensation. Light falls upon the light receptor cells of the retina in the eye, which convert the light into electric pulses. The hypothalamus in the brain is then stimulated by these pulses and sends instructions to the pineal and pituitary glands; which then send messages to the other endocrine glands. For example, it has been scientifically proven that the color red stimulates the adrenal glands, raising blood pressure and pulse rate. Therefore the color red is considered to have an ‘exciting’ effect on the nervous system.

In the 1920s Darius Dinshah developed colored filters and lamps which he matched with his scientific research to apply color to the body for healing physical disease. At the same time Charles Butts was applying color through the eyes to affect healing of imbalances in the nervous and endocrine systems.

We now in the Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) or Holistic health field recognize that color therapy can be applied in three ways:
Psychological
o Identifying states of mind and negative stress through color preference and then using color to make positive changes
Eastern or Mystical Influence
o Briefly, this assumes that we are all bodies of light and is prevalent in Hindu, Tibetan and Chinese teachings. Using chakras (energy centers of light in the body) and intuition the therapist uses color to make positive changes holistically: body, mind, spirit and emotion.
Physical
o By directing colored light or using colored swatches of fabric color is introduced to diseased or imbalanced areas of the body to promote healing.

Want to add more color to your life?
There are a number of ways you can add the healing vibrations of color to your life, including through your clothes, the colors on your walls, using light application of color and even taking baths in colored water! Here are a few simple tips to get you started:

  • Feeling overly stressed and anxious? Choose to wear a green sweater and bring in the calming and soothing vibration of green.
  • Need a pick-me-up? Then get some orange cellophane, wrap it around a glass of water and leave in the sunshine for about ten minutes. Drink the water and take in the vibration of uplifting and energizing orange.
  • Don’t want to get into an argument with your boss, your spouse or the kids? Then wear the color pink. Pink is non-confrontational and promotes compassion.
  • Taking an exam? Wear yellow to stimulate your mind and intelligence.
  • Difficulty sleeping Paint your bedroom blue. Blue is the color of peace and protection. Use blue in your bedroom to create a peaceful and serene room to sleep in.
  • Suffering from psoriasis? Try shining a blue or green light on the affected areas to counteract the rash.

Hopefully I’ve tweaked your curiosity and you’d like to learn more! We have distance learning color therapy courses available, which are fun and informative. Start with Level One and learn about your own responses to color and learn about traditional uses of color for healing. Level Two takes you into more exploration and a deeper knowledge and then Level Three teaches you how to apply color therapy to others. Start NOW! If you’d like to learn more or have some questions before you begin your journey into Color Therapy please contact me.

You may reprint this article and include this information:
Reprinted with permission by Health Steps, the School of Complementary Therapies Education division of Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC Newsletter. Jacqueline Fairbrass is the founder of the School of Complementary Therapies, a leader in the field of CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) education. For more information go to SchoolofCT or Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC JacquelineFairbrass, call             206.201.2764       or contact us on-line.

What, Where, Why, How-Reiki Hands-on Healing?

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Reiki for Pain Management, Stress Reduction and Alleviation of Anxiety

Over the years I have been practicing Reiki the most common question I’ve been asked about it is ‘What is it?’ The quickest answer to this question is ‘The simplest of therapies bringing the most profound results: Reiki is Hands-on Healing.’ But that isn’t enough, so let’s read on to learn a little about Reiki, how it has been tested and is used:

What? Reiki is an ancient natural healing art and a touch healing system using ‘laying-on of hands’. Truly holistic in nature, Reiki healing sessions promote healing on all levels: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.

Where? The Reiki system of ‘laying-on of hands’ is documented as being discovered and practiced in Japan in the mid-1800s, although it is commonly believed to be traced back to early Tibetan teachings from around 3000BCE. In addition, it is considered by many to be the healing method employed by Buddha and Jesus Christ.

Why? Reiki does not conflict with other health care but enhances its results. It does not interfere with traditional medical treatment but facilitates the benefits and speeds the recover from any toxic side effects. It also may be used in conjunction with other complementary healing modalities and for maintenance of health and well-being.

How? For some time, scientific studies have been conducted in the area of laying-on of hands; however, proven clinically validated studies are limited. The most well known Reiki study was conducted in 1997 by Karin Olson, RN, PhD, from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. The purpose of the study was to explore the usefulness of Reiki as an adjuvant to opioid therapy in the management of pain. A pilot study was conducted involving 20 volunteers experiencing pain at 55 sites for a variety of reasons, including cancer. A highly significant reduction in pain was indicated following the Reiki treatment. (1)

Little traditional scientific evidence exists. However, Dr. John Zimmerman of the University of Colorado has established that magnetic fields around the hands of healers are up to several hundred times stronger than those fields around non-healers, using a superconducting quantum interference device. (2)

Reiki is completely safe. There is no danger involved in using or receiving Reiki treatments. Reiki has no contraindications, and it has been shown to be effective in cases when there is no belief in it. The recipient does not have to believe in Reiki for it to work; the recipient only has to be open to receive a treatment. That said the only guarantee that can be made for a Reiki session is that stress and anxiety will be lessened. Testimonials are personal, varying with people from slight improvement in disease symptoms to complete wellness. Using Reiki is a highly personal experience.

Reiki is often used for self-help. The first degree or first level of training is primarily for personal use, and individuals often learn Reiki for this purpose. When going to see a professional therapist you can expect to lie on a massage-type table for anything from around 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. Reiki therapists have learned a series of hand positions which cover the entire body, both front and back. However a skilled therapist may use their own stylized set of hand placements and make intuitive adjustments to personalize your treatment. You will not be required to remove clothing and you will not be touched inappropriately or at any time be made to feel uncomfortable by a reputable therapist.

You will enter a state of deep relaxation comparable to a meditative or day-dreaming state. You may have sensations of tingling and pleasant dream-like impressions and many see floating balls of color in their imaginations!

Reiki is not regulated anywhere in the world, however there have been attempts to regulate. These are voluntary and there is a general consensus in freedom in the training and practicing process. Therefore the most effective way of finding a Reiki practitioner or therapist is often through referral. All too often, those who call themselves Reiki Masters and teach others have taken ‘quickie’ courses and are not particularly experienced or well-versed in the therapy. Accordingly, it is customary to ask therapists how long they have practiced and what other qualifications they bring to their practice. Because Reiki is used in conjunction with numerous healing modalities, Reiki Therapists often are versed in other therapies, which can be very useful is assisting patients through the healing process.

At SCT both Founder Jacqueline Fairbrass and Reiki Master/Instructor Adrian McKeague teach Reiki in the classroom and are practising therapists. Contact Jacqueline and/or Adrian for class times and availability.
If you would like to learn more you may purchase the First Degree Reiki Training Manual from us or contact Adrian by phone (613) 203-7343 for a free 15 minute consultation.

1 Olson K, Hanson J: Using Reiki to manage pain: a preliminary report, Cancer Prevent Control 1(2):108-113, 1997
2 Rand WL: Reiki research, Reiki News (summer):1-9, 1995
You may reprint this article and include this information:
Reprinted with permission by Health Steps, the School of Complementary Therapies Education division of Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC Newsletter. Jacqueline Fairbrass is the founder of the School of Complementary Therapies, a leader in the field of CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) education. For more information go to SchoolofCT or Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC JacquelineFairbrass, call 206.201.2764 or contact us on-line.

Don’t Let the Blues Get You Down-Try Reflexology!

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With all the information now available on the adverse side-effects of medical intervention into depressive states many people are looking to Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) to help. I am often asked about alternate or complementary practices that can alleviate the symptoms of depression. Although there are many holistic treatments that can help, one of the favorites is Reflexology. Reflexology has been well documented by science to relieve symptoms of depression.(1) Let’s look at depression and reflexology:

So what is depression? Depression is described as a state of low mood and aversion to activity that affect a person’s thoughts, behavior, feelings and physical well-being.(2) When people are feeling depressed they will describe life as being sad, empty and hopeless. They may feel anxiety, be irritable and develop lethargy or restlessness: Once pleasurable activities become uninteresting, appetite may change and they may develop problems with concentrating or making decisions. People also exhibit physical aches and pains or digestive problems and sleep problems which seem to be resistant to usual treatments.(3) Bouts of depression may span from weeks to years and sometimes cause despair so great that suicide may be contemplated.

And what is Reflexology? At SCT we define Reflexology as a specific bodywork technique, where the therapist strokes, massages and applies pressure to the feet, hands and face to effect changes in the body, relax muscles, and stimulate the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

A Reflexology treatment session causes an increase in blood flow to organs and helps the body to eliminate toxin build-ups. The lymphatic and endocrine systems are stimulated while a state of relaxation is induced. Both sympathetic and para-sympathetic nervous systems come to balance and natural feel-good hormones called endorphins are released. Scientific sources indicate that an increase in production of endorphins reduces the body’s stress response and causes feelings of well-being.(4)

On the holistic or CAM level, the internal energy lines that flow through the body are cleared and the body returns to energetic balance. This in turn is believed to allow optimal nervous system functioning.

Sounds good? And it feels even better! A good Reflexology session will leave you feeling rested and refreshed, ready to tackle the world again.(5) Regular Reflexology as part of a wellness program has been indicated to help alleviate depressive symptoms. So, if you are feeling a bit blue, why not give it a try?

If you would like to learn more about Reflexology SCT has courses in the classroom and distance learning available for professional or home use. If you have any questions or would like to learn more please contact us.

(1) http://archpsyc.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/abstract/55/11/1026
(2) Sandra Salmans (1997). Depression: questions you have – answers you need. People’s Medical Society
(3) Depression: National Institute of Mental Health 2009-09-23
(4) PBS Online: A Science Odyssey: People and Discoveries. Public Broadcasting System. 1998-01-01
(5) Disclaimer: Reflexology should not be used to replace allopathic medical advice as prescribed by your primary health care provided. Do not stop taking medication without medical supervision.
You may reprint this article and include this information:
Reprinted with permission by Health Steps, the School of Complementary Therapies Education division of Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC Newsletter. Jacqueline Fairbrass is the founder of the School of Complementary Therapies, a leader in the field of CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) education. For more information go to School

The Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC Top Ten Rules for Looking Good and Feeling Great

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(Rule 6 to 10-check August 2010 for 1 to 5)

As summer comes to a close many of us decide to begin new projects. This year how about making you, the wonderful you the new project you work on. Use these simple tips to start making the positive changes you wish to see in your life and by Christmas you’ll really be on the way to Feeling Absolutely Fabulous!

6. Quit the junk.

Lose the junk food. The best way to get off the junk food wagon is to go through your cupboards and do a little spring cleaning. If there is stuff in your cupboard that tempts you, then the easiest way to is to not keep it around. Find out what sucks you into unhealthy snacking. Is it the need for something crunchy and salty? Then make sure you stock the fridge with crispy vegetables and a yummy salsa dip. Don’t overdo the fat-filled dips! Or does something sweet and creamy tempt you to get into unhealthy eating habits? Instead of a full-fat ice-cream dessert, try 2% Greek yoghurt, mix in some honey or preserves and enjoy.

Dead calories and preservatives don’t make you feel good. The body has to work extra hard to get them out of your body and they can leave you feeling tired and too much sugar or salt leads to health complications.

Drive by the drive-through. A little planning and you can skip the fast food joints. My husband has long been a junk-food addict, now two years of marriage later he heads out the door each morning with a home-made sandwich or a salad and some fresh fruit for lunch. Not only is he feeling better physically, he’s feeling better about himself and is saving money each month. All it takes is a little planning and getting out of bed five minutes earlier!

7. Stop skipping meals.

Working as a CAM Health Consultant for eighteen years I’ve probably heard every excuse for missing meals: ‘I didn’t get up in time, I don’t feel hungry till later in the day, I was too busy, there was no time, I figure if I skip meals I’ll lose the excess weight I carry.’ You’ve probably heard them or used them too! Missing meals causes fluctuations in your body’s energy reserves and can really mess up your metabolism. Again, like number 6, a little planning can help. I plan my evening meals for the week ahead and then go do the grocery shopping. Keep a few frozen items on hand for when things get hectic. Carry a high quality protein snack with you. I personally like to keep a small bag of almonds and raisins in my purse, especially when I’m traveling.

I recommend three meals a day and two snacks. Some people like to break their meals into five or six mini-meals spread through out the day. Whichever way works for you, you’ll feel better, have more energy and improve your digestion by eating regularly. And let’s face it, if we try skipping meals as a weight-loss aid, we only end up eating more or eating junk, so let’s not do it anymore.

8. Laughter is the best medicine

One of the most important things we can do for ourselves is to enjoy life and laugh often. Remember the old saying ‘angels can fly because they take themselves lightly’? Take it to heart and lighten-up-figuratively and literally. Studies indicate that those who take time to enjoy the little things in life actually live longer, more productive and healthier lives and this means they don’t overeat!

I’m not much of a TV watcher, but I do enjoy sitting down, putting my feet up and enjoying a movie. Most of the movies I have in my collection are comedies or feel-good stories. Do you have a few favorite movies that you can watch over and over again that make you laugh every time you see them? Invest in having them in your collection.

Hang out with friends who like to laugh. Go through your list of friendships and evaluate who makes you feel great when you are around them. Then go ahead and start weeding out those who drag you down.

When we laugh we send natural chemicals around the body that uplift our mood. We breathe more deeply and oxygenate our blood. And we have a sense of being able to cope with all that life throws our way! A good laugh shared with some good friends is one of the simplest ways to feel absolutely fabulous.

9. Spend more time in bed.

This works in a couple of ways: healthy, good quality sleep makes you feel absolutely fabulous and so does some sexy-time!

Studies indicate that most of us are not getting enough quality sleep. If you have trouble with this one, try establishing a bed-time routine. Never, ever take the laptop or work to bed with you. Make sure your bedroom is a peaceful, harmonious place, conducive to quality rest and you’ll reinforce your sleep routines.

Take the TV out of the bedroom. Again, studies indicate that couples who have a TV in the bedroom make love less often than those who don’t. Find time, again it make take a little planning, to enjoy having a body. Being sexual is a very important part of being human and you deserve to feel good.

Last, but not least:

10. Develop a support network.

Over the years as I became an expert in helping people to over-come anxiety, one of the major things I discovered is that having emotional support is so important to our overall health and wellness, including our sense of worth and self-esteem.

Whether you are trying hard to lose weight, want to exercise more, or just want to lead a healthier lifestyle, surrounding yourself with like-minded people is the support network you need. Think about how successful the 12-Step Programs are. They are so successful because whatever the issue they address they encourage attendance at meetings with like-minded people.

I have a list of friends I go to when life hands out its pear-shaped moments. Having one friend to go to (or to your spouse or significant other) isn’t the right approach. No one person can be everything to you. Get yourself a list. If I pick up the phone and the first friend isn’t available to chat with, I move on the next and so on. That way no-one becomes burdened with me and I feel I can always turn to someone for some support!

Well done, by reading this far you know that you are ready to make the changes to be a healthier you! Remember, I am here to help you. Just call for an appointment (206) 201-2764 or drop me a line by email. Let’s get started today. Live Your Fabulous Life NOW. If not, WHEN?

  • Stay fabulous,
    Jacqueline Fairbrass CEO Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC
    Founder, School of Complementary Therapies
    Certified Hypnotherapist and CAM Health Consultant
You may reprint this article and include this information:
Reprinted with permission by Health Steps, the School of Complementary Therapies Education division of Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC Newsletter. Jacqueline Fairbrass is the founder of the School of Complementary Therapies, a leader in the field of CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) education. For more information go to SchoolofCT or Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC JacquelineFairbrass, call 206.201.2764 or contact us on-line.

Me First, Darling!

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Here we are entering the last month of Spring and many clients and students have been complaining about feeling a lack of energy. I have chosen the topic “self-care” as a reminder to put our health and wellness on a priority list. Or as I like to say “me first, darling!”

If you have been checking your newsletter regularly you will have noticed lots of wonderful changes happening at the School of Complementary Therapies and in my clinical practice. While all this change is good, the fact of the matter is all change causes stress. So, I was feeling somewhat tired lately, and noticed I was a little “puffy” and that it was time to put my teachings into practice. How does the old saying go ‘healer, heal yourself’? I’m going to share with you some of the ways I get my life back into harmony.

Give yourself permission to make rest a priority.
Life can be stressful. We have to contend with traffic and work. We have families to care for. And many of us quite simply don’t get enough rest. We are encouraged to exercise and to eat well, but rest is just as important for our overall health and well-being. Are you getting enough rest and sleep? Start by identifying periods during the day when you can be without stimulation. Yes, find some time to do nothing. Find those times and allow your body and mind to rest. Even if all you have is 5 to 10 minutes, slow down and just breathe deeply. One of the wonderful benefits of this is that it helps put your day-to-day concerns in perspective.

Aim for 8 hours sleep a night.
Sometimes when we are stressed we can kid ourselves that watching TV or playing on the computer is the “rest” we need. No, we need time to do nothing and to sleep. Get to bed a little earlier. Bonus here-not only will you have more energy and feel less stressed-research suggests that appetite-regulating hormones are affected by sleep and sleep deprivation may possibly have a role to play in weight gain. Sometimes when my mind is busy I find it difficult to get enough sleep. I use my CD Radiant Health to help me doze off. By starting my night’s sleep fully relaxed by the progressive relaxation my mind switches off. By listening to the positive affirmations my brain starts to focus on the important stuff and I just don’t wake-up with the busy brain. If fact, I wake up feeling fabulous!

Use your imagination to help you reduce stress.
Using your imagination to help you relax is a terrific way to reduce stress and work through those day-to-day challenges. It’s simple, low-tech and effective: all you need is your imagination and a few minutes to yourself. Begin by closing your eyes and taking long, slow deep breaths. Imagine that you are in beautiful surroundings. It can be somewhere you have visited or somewhere you would like to! Focus on bringing all parts of the image to life: the colors you see, the sounds you hear, the scents you smell. Bring the images into focus and try to “stay in” the scene for at least five minutes. Practice this exercise for a few minutes every day or use it whenever you’re stressed.

Give yourself permission to sort out what you want to take with you into the future and what you want to leave behind.
Suze Orman, in her book The Courage to be Rich encourages us to find 25 items in the office that can be given away or thrown away. She believes that by creating a void this allows the Universe (God or Goddess) to fill it with something better. Emma and I took this to heart and cleared the office. It felt so good that we both took time to go through our homes and had a lot of fun getting rid of clothes that no longer fit. You can pass things on or have a garage sale, or take stuff to the Thrift Shop. The game is to start by identifying where your life and/or business is cluttered. Then throw it away, give it away, or find a use for it by the end of the day.

Let someone else look after you for a while.
I have been going to see my friend Siri for a Massage and getting Reflexology from Ade. Wonderful stuff! Treat yourself to a nice dinner out and let someone wait on you, cook the meal and do the clearing up! Can’t afford dinner this month; then go out for breakfast.

Make time for play!
And don’t forget to take play time. I have been going to lunch and breakfast with friends, dinner with my kids, walks with mates, and the other day had a wonderful time in a park on a swing! Get back in touch with life’s priorities and make a little space each day for play!

And the amazing thing I’ve remembered – that when my life is in harmony, I have lots more energy to get the things I need to do done.

So, see you later – I’m off to catch a movie.

Keep well,
Jacqueline

You may reprint this article and include this information:
Reprinted with permission by Health Steps, the School of Complementary Therapies Education division of Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC Newsletter. Jacqueline Fairbrass is the founder of the School of Complementary Therapies, a leader in the field of CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) education. For more information go to SchoolofCT or Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC JacquelineFairbrass, call 206.201.2764 or contact us on-line.

Summertime Baby and Child Care with Aromatherapy and Herbs Part Two

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More Aromatherapy Tips for Children

Party time When planning a children’s party use a diffuser to scent the room. Choose citrus oils like sweet orange or mandarin. They are happy yet calming scents that most children seem to love.

Citrus oils can be used as natural cleaning agents around the house. Simply add a few drops of orange, lemon, bergamot or mandarin oil to water, moisten a clean cloth with the mixture and wipe down children’s rooms and school bags.

Try using witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) to ease the discomfort and heal the wound of insect bites and stings. Witch hazel is a liquid distillation of the leaves, bark and twigs of the tree Hamamelis virginiana which may be found on most drugstore shelves in the areas near to rubbing alcohol and hydrogen peroxide.

Insect Bite and Burns Use 1 drop of lavender essential oil in 1 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda and mix into a paste with a little cold water. Apply as often as necessary.

Scent children’s drawers containing nighttime clothing with lavender and Roman chamomile essential oils applied to cotton balls or pads. Or make little sachets with the dried herb, or simply take some of the dried herbs and tie in a handkerchief. Don’t forget this works for mums and dads too! Sweet dreams!

Stinky sneakers or running shoes! Use as a base 4 cups of natural clay kitty litter. Add 20 drops sandalwood, 10 drops tea tree, 5 drops lemon, 5 drops grapefruit, 5 drops spruce and 15 drops lavender. Put it all into a glass mason jar and give it a good shake. Let the blend mature for a week. Then take four old socks and place a cup of the mixture in each and tie a knot or close with a rubber band. Put into the shoes each night! You can always refresh by adding more essential oils.

If you have children living away from home make sure they have bottles of tea tree, lavender and lemon essential oils for first aid purposes. Also, a small handkerchief with mum’s perfume on it can be very comforting when a child is away at camp for the summer.

Roman Chamomile essential oil is soothing for tantrums and will also help promote a good night’s sleep. I often used to give my children a small cup of the warm tea before bed to help them get drowsy. And, Peter Rabbit’s mum gave him a cup of chamomile tea after he got into the Farmer’s lettuce garden and overate!

Sweet Orange is known at the oil of happiness and is both warm and sunny and therefore excellent for depression, stress, tension, frustration and anxiety. Orange helps to lift the spirits and promote joy. Use in a diffuser to scent the child’s room.

Mandarin is wonderful to use with children suffering from anxiety, nervousness or stress as it contains a high percentage of anthranilic acid esters which are highly sedative. Make this oil your first choice with children and be aware that it is great for adults as well. Tangerine oil has a scent similar to Mandarin but it does not contain the anthranilic acid esthers and therefore does not have the same sedative effects. If you are in doubt about using the essential oils, eat the fruit instead!

Eucalyptus smithi is the only eucalyptus essential oil that is recommended for use on children. Eucalyptus globulus which is the most common is most often rectified (which means it has been messed around with and isn’t pure and natural any longer) and is therefore not suitable for children. A top note in aromatherapy, this oil is indicated in cases of chest infections, to facilitate breathing. It is also an effective analgesic.
At the first sign of a stuffy nose place 1 drop of Eucalyptus on the corner of your pillow. This may on occasions actually stop a cold from coming on. For young children always remember to use Eucalyptus smithi, a much safer oil.

Lemon essential oil has high antibacterial properties and kills germs. Keep a spray bottle handy for quick cleanups in children’s playroom. Add to dishwashing liquid or any mild hand soap. Use in a spray for disinfecting the air. Its antibacterial properties are suggested to last for days!

Of course, I have only covered a few things that can benefit from herbs and aromatherapy in the summer time. If there are other issues you would care to discuss or that require a more in-depth consultation either in person or by phone, please contact me at 206 201 2764 orjf@jacquelinefairbrass.com or skype me: jacqueline.fairbrass for an appointment.

Keep well,
Jacqueline Fairbrass

You may reprint this article and include this information:
Reprinted with permission by Health Steps, the School of Complementary Therapies Education division of Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC Newsletter. Jacqueline Fairbrass is the founder of the School of Complementary Therapies, a leader in the field of CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) education. For more information go to SchoolofCT or Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC JacquelineFairbrass, call 206.201.2764 or contact us on-line.

Sleep like a Baby

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Sleep like a Baby

40ml Sweet Almond oil
10ml Rose Hip oil
5 drops Sandalwood
8 drops Frankincense
20 Bergamot
16 Lavender
Blend together and gently massage oil into body.   This subtle blend with help ease anxiety, depression, insomnia and helps aid with maturing skin.
– Dominique

What Happens To My Body When I’m Stressed?

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More info from the Feeling Absolutely Fabulous Program™

We consider stress to be the opposite of relaxation. The human body is wonderfully adapted to deal with certain levels of stress. As hunter/gatherer people our bodies developed warning signals that helped us recognize when to attack and when to retreat from situations. Unfortunately, when we are exposed to more stress than we can cope with on a mental, emotional or physical basis the “stress response” goes into overdrive and it can be damaging to our health and well-being.

Stress is a medical term for a wide range of strong external stimuli, both physiological and psychological (body and mind) which may cause a physiological response known as general adaptation syndrome (G.A.S.) This was first introduced to us by Hans Selye in 1936. Selye described G.A.S. as having three separate stages, as follows:

  • Alarm reaction. The body detects external stimulus. You may recognize this as “the fight or flight” stage. Your body and mind react by going into a kind of “heightened awareness” and you prepare to either engage in fighting or run away.
  • Adaptation. The body engages defensive counter-measures against the stressor. You may recognize that after the effects of the alarm reaction your body and mind begin to “adapt”, that is you start to alter your thoughts, emotions and attitudes to the original stressor and begin to accept the situation.
  • Exhaustion. The body begins to run out of defenses. After exhausting our mental, emotional and physical ability to resist and adapt to the stresses we experience we become exhausted.

Stress may include both “eustress” which is positive stress and “distress” which is negative stress. Life contains both but it is important to understand that what causes distress for one person may cause eustress for another. When we talk of stress we are usually discussing distress. Stress is subjective and based on your personal life perception. Do not let others tell you that your stress is not real. Eustress may be classified as life’s challenges and is as essential to life as exercise is to a muscle. Too much distress in life can directly and indirectly contribute to general or specific disorders of body, mind and emotions. In other words too much stress can make you ill.

Stress can have a major impact on the physical functioning of your body by raising the level of certain hormones in the body and thereby affecting bodily organs. For example, the levels of adrenaline and corticosterone are elevated during the alarm reaction phase of stress. These chemicals increase heart-rate and blood pressure as well as respiration and thereby put more stress on bodily organs. Long-term stress can therefore be a contributing factor in heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and other illnesses.

In the Japanese culture death from overwork is called karoshi and is believed to be due to heart attack and stroke brought on by high levels of stress.

This strong link between emotions and physical health is supported by the following paragraph. James A. Duke in his book The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook writes about the heart disease research work of Dr. Dean Ornish M.D.:

“Dr. Ornish tells about a group of rabbits that added an unexpected tidbit to the research on heart disease. Kept in a laboratory under research conditions, the rabbits were genetically similar, and all received the same food and got the same amount of exercise, yet one group had 60 percent fewer heart attacks than the others. What was the difference? It turned out the healthier rabbits were the ones kept in the lower cages, and the short person who fed the rabbits could reach the lower animals and pet them when feeding them.”

As a health consultant in the Complementary Alternative Medicine (C.A.M.) field I play a role in helping people combat the effects of stress in their lives. When a cuddle from a friend and a long weekend break from work isn’t bringing you back into balance you need to consider making some life changes to prevent ill health.

An initial consultation takes one and a half hours and involves looking at your health history and current lifestyle. One of the questions I ask is “how high is your stress level?” with one being very low and 10 you are at your wit’s end. The number of times I hear the answer “12” would shock you! From there we look at what you are doing that is positive and we begin a personalisedProgramon changing the negative.

We may look at aromatherapy massage, hypnotherapy, Reiki, Reflexology and other bodywork techniques to help you relax and repair. In addition, you will most certainly be given homework including breathwork, suggestions on how and which types of exercise will help, nutritional improvement; we’ll take a look at your sleep patterns and more.

So, please contact me by email and we’ll set up an appointment to get you started on your own personal wellness Program and you’ll soon be feeling Absolutely Fabulous™!

Jacqueline Fairbrass

You may reprint this article and include this information:
Reprinted with permission by Health Steps, the School of Complementary Therapies Education division of Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC Newsletter. Jacqueline Fairbrass is the founder of the School of Complementary Therapies, a leader in the field of CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) education. For more information go to SchoolofCT or Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC JacquelineFairbrass, call 206.201.2764 or contact us on-line.

When You Need More Sleep

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One of the questions I ask when people come to see me is about their sleep and sleep patterns. Did you know that as we age, we need less sleep? However, many of us have not yet reached that stage of life, and we are not getting enough sleep. In fact, it’s rare that someone says to me that they sleep really well and get enough sleep. If you are having some problems with sleep, whether it’s quantity or quality, the following information may be of help:

What is insomnia?

Insomnia is an inability to sleep and/or to remain asleep for a reasonable period of time. Some insomniacs will complain of being unable to close their eyes or “rest their mind” for more than a few minutes at a time. A common misconception is that insomnia is itself a sleep disorder. In fact insomnia may be caused by sleep disorders. Sleep disorders may include:

  • Bruxism: grinding of teeth while sleeping Snoring: loud breathing patterns sometimes accompanied by sleep apnea Sleep apnea: obstruction of the airway during sleep Delayed Sleep phase syndrome: disorder of the circadian rhythm Jet lag: travelling in and out of different time zones Narcolepsy: falling asleep spontaneously
  • Night terror: abrupt awakening from sleep in a pronounced state of fear

Insomnia may be caused by sleep disorders, but often what I see in clients’ health stories are other reasons, including:

  • Stress (the opposite of relaxation) Anxiety (a complex combination of negative emotions that includes fear, apprehension and worry, and is often accompanied by physical sensations such as palpitations, nausea, chest pain and/or shortness of breath). Medications Herbs Caffeine Over active mind
  • Physical pain

Insomnia is a relatively common sleeping disorder, which according to Dr. Andrew Weil affects approximately one-third of the adult population worldwide. Unfortunately, as we age, quality of sleep can decrease. While different types of insomnia have different causes, many people can find relief through the following, regardless of the source of their insomnia:

  • Establish a consistent bedtime routine, and try to go to bed at the same time every night, this may include:
    • Not watching the news before going to bed Having a cup of chamomile or other relaxing herb tea before bed Reading a light book for 20 minutes Making sure the bedroom is a peaceful environment
    • Writing a gratitude jurnal, so your mind is full of life’s joys before you sleep
    • Get plenty of exercise during the day. The more energy you expend during the day, the sleepier you will feel at bedtime. But don’t exercise just before bed, remember the bedtime routine!
    • Reduce or eliminate your intake of caffeine, stimulants and alcohol. Even when consumed early in the day, these may affect your quality of sleep. Don’t rely on alcohol to go to sleep, it may help you fall asleep, but it alters your sleeping patterns, and it can become a serious problem down the road. Instead try:
      • A cup of relaxing herb tea A mug of warm milk
      • Calcium magnesium supplement in liquid form
      • Avoid large meals late in the evening. Your digestive system will be working and you won’t relax as well as you can
  • Learn and practice a relaxation technique regularly. Good examples are:
    • Breathing exercises Meditation Self-hypnosis
    • Yoga

Don’t obsess about not sleeping. Instead, remind yourself that while sleeplessness may be troublesome, it isn’t life-threatening. Take the time to consciously rest, and a side effect may be that sleep takes over.

Finding the underlying cause of insomnia is sometimes necessary to stop it! If you would like to discuss your own personal sleep patterns and discover how to improve your quality and quantity of sleep, please contact me for an appointment. jf@jacquelinefairbrass.com

And, finally, don’t forget that the Hypnotherapy CDs Acceptance, Radiant Health, Throw Away Your Weight and/or Meditation are available to help you fall asleep at night. Many clients find that listening to the progressive relaxation at bedtime is enough to focus their minds, allowing their natural body rhythms to take over.

Jacqueline Fairbrass

You may reprint this article and include this information:
Reprinted with permission by Health Steps, the School of Complementary Therapies Education division of Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC Newsletter. Jacqueline Fairbrass is the founder of the School of Complementary Therapies, a leader in the field of CAM (Complementary and Alternative Medicine) education. For more information go to SchoolofCT or Feeling Absolutely Fabulous LLC JacquelineFairbrass, call 206.201.2764 or contact us on-line.

Welcome To The School Of Complementary Therapies

jacqui

Hi, I’m Jacqueline Fairbrass—licensed Hypnotherapist, holistic wellness therapist, vivacious health coach, and founder of the School of Complementary Therapies.