One of the joys of living here in the South Hams is the mild winter weather we experience in comparison to some other parts of the UK, which does considerably help when it comes to embracing the change in seasons.

When I think of winter I think of the change in nature’s colours as we lose those pretty red, gold, yellow and orange leaves.  I embrace colourful foods like oranges, tangerines,  apples, carrots, beetroot, red cabbage and pears.

Like most people, my body craves the heat in the winter months so in order to reconnect with it and keep happy, I try to regularly go for a sauna, steam and a swim.

I also believe in pampering or self-care so I have a massage once a month to release any muscular tension and de-stress.

Yoga is something I have enjoyed for many years as it’s precious time to reconnect with my body and it doesn’t take up too much time.  I always feel great after and it’s a superb mindfulness exercise for the mind.

There is also the option once a month to go for a gong bath, which is a wonderful meditative, relaxation experience surrounded by like-minded souls with our ‘Musical queen’ Helen. Her incredible talent amazes me, especially when she plays the Native American flute.  I’m always tempted to open my eyes to watch her play but that would interrupt the relaxation so I resist.

I recently had acupuncture as I was struggling with a painful frozen shoulder.  When trigger points are released, more blood and nutrients can flow to the area, reducing pain and improving your range of motion.  I also didn’t realise that not drinking enough water meant that my magnesium levels were probably quite low so I found the whole treatment really helpful.

I work as a Cognitive Behaviour Therapist (known as CBT) and I have had a successful private practise for 8 years. Psychotherapy/counselling isn’t as scary as people may initially think it is. After all, we are here to help support you as someone who will care about and help you work towards your life goals.

I have read so many self-help books over the years and although I found them interesting and insightful, I realised that what I actually needed the most was CBT.

• ‘Remember that your mental health is a priority, your inner peace is essential and your self-care is necessity’

Modbury Therapy Centre have gift vouchers so if you are looking for gift ideas, why not give the gift of wellness with a well-being gift voucher this Christmas

Diane Knight – Cognitive Behaviour and Integrative Therapist

www.Dianeknight.co.uk
Tel: 07967 753460