Good Posture with Claire
A short film to help with good posture.
Good Posture with Claire
On-line Counselling
On-line Counselling
I offer on-line counselling via Zoom if this is preferable to face-to-face.
An introductory chat on the phone for up to 20 minutes is free of charge.
Surviving Christmas
Surviving Christmas
Christmas can be a stressful time of year for many. The pressure to ‘have a good time’ can be overwhelming. It may seem that everyone is full of joy and excitement with frantic shopping sprees, the fridge groaning with food, and dashing around to catch up with social commitments whether on-line or face to face ( social distanced, of course!).
Loneliness, anxiety and depression are all too common at this time of year, with the dread of Christmas highlighting Christmases past where memories of festivities are not happy ones. The loss of a loved on, the break-up of a relationship, financial pressures, social anxiety and family politics all add up to a very unhappy time.
Being alone at Christmas, especially this year, is stressful for some, but others may find the absence of pressure to join in’ liberating. Being able to please yourself, watch what you want to on TV, eat what you want, when you want is a great way to treat yourself, and to care for yourself when you may feel that no-one else cares.
To survive Christmas, it can be really helpful to plan ahead. Work in time to do what you need to do. Plan time for commitments but also allow ‘time out’ for your self to escape for a while to a quiet room, or take a walk. Commit to seeing who you want to spent time with, and excuse yourself from situations you find difficult. This can be done kindly so as not to offend.
Spare a thought for those that work at this time of year, maybe in the retail and catering trades, or farming and animal care, where the job continues 365 days of the year. in all weathers.
An alternative Christmas mat be appealing. Out aside the traditions and create some new ones for yourself, Maybe going for a walk with a packed lunch instead of the big turkey meal, or volunteer at one of the many brilliant organisations that provide for others.Maybe there are others in your neighbourhood that need company.
The most important thing to survive Christmas is to look after yourself, and to treat yourself, whatever your situation. Acknowledge the needs of people around you too, but have self-respect enough to value what you would like to do/not do.
Take care through the festivities, but continue to have self-belief and to care for yourself in the coming year.
Best wishes, Claire
The Owl – Symbolism
The Owl – Symbolism
The owl has been valued as a spirit animal, or totem for a very long time. It symbolises ancient knowledge in Native American Indian beliefs, as a soul protector at the end of life to Egyptians. The ancient Greeks saw the owl as a protector of their armies.
Having an affinity with the owl, dreaming of them, or seeing them around, or coincidentally coming across the owl in daily life may be taken as an indication to embrace what the owl may symbolise to you. There may be traits in the owl that are pertinent to you right now, or qualities the owl has that may be of benefit in your life. To discover more about why the owl is in your thoughts, meditation can be a valuable way to sense what this means to you at the moment.
Qualities of the owl:
Intuition
Intelligence
Clarity
Wisdom
Protection
Watchfulness
Finding truth
Patience
Focus
Observation
Owls can symbolise:
Exploring shadows and fears
Seeing fine details
Needing protection through Change or transition
Time to leave the past behind and move forwards
Seeing things as they really are, being aware of deception
Getting Older Gracefully
Getting Older Gracefully
We are living longer. Nurturing our bodies and our minds is important so we can do all the things we want to do, for as long as possible. Increasing activity helps to keep your body running like a well-oiled machine: parts can seize up if they are not used. Keep moving! Dancing to music is proven to be the best mind and body exercise going. A combination of yoga-inspired stretching and dance really improve energy levels, fitness and strength.
Maintaining a youthful outlook on life knocks years off your ‘real’ age. Apparently ’60 is the new 40′. We have the opportunity to look and feel 10 or 20 years younger with regular exercise. Improve your complexion by exercising regularly and drinking plenty of water.
Being fit helps balance and posture. It improves and prolongs quality of life, as well as exercising the brain. Practice makes perfect and improves co-ordination. It may seem daunting to take up a new activity, but self-confidence will grow as you become physically fitter.
Joining a class is a great way to meet new friends. Loneliness can be an issue as we age. It can be difficult to take the plunge to start a new activity, but exercising in a friendly and fun environment can really uplift the spirits. Feeling happy on the inside reflects in your face, and passes joy to others too!
