Victoria Gazzard - Holistic Therapist

20/06/2024

Summer solstice isn't just about sunshine and ice cream (though those are pretty great too!). It's a chance to pause and appreciate the natural world's incredible rhythm.

Take a moment to breathe deep, feel the warmth, and reconnect with the Earth's energy.

What are your favourite ways to celebrate the summer solstice? Share in the comments!

17/06/2024

Summer will soon be here, but for some of us with PCOS it can bring extra challenges.

Heat can worsen symptoms like bloating and irregular periods.

Here are some tips to help you handle summer with PCOS:
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
- Lighten up your meals
- Dress comfortably
- Stay cool indoors
- Sunscreen is a must!
- Listen to your body

13/06/2024

The following recruitment information has been reviewed by MARG and is being signposted on behalf of Royal Holloway University of London researchers.

https://research.sc/participant/login/dynamic/B73C7611-C0DE-4813-A188-8B032C33AA76

10/06/2024

This week is Loneliness Awareness, a time to focus on the importance of social connection.

The truth is, loneliness is a growing issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds.

But the good news is, there are small things we can all do to make a big difference. Whether it's reaching out to a neighbour, volunteering in the community, or simply making more time for the people we care about - every gesture counts.

05/06/2024

Tips on supporting mental energy.

It wasn’t until I became ill with Long Covid that I understood the impact of mental energy on fatigue.
When taking care of our energy levels we must consider our mental energy output as well as our physical energy.

www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/mental-energy

Feel like your brain’s running on fumes? It may be time to fill up your mental energy tank.

03/06/2024

Summer is almost here, but for many, it can be a juggle.

Between keeping kids entertained, managing schedules, and the pressure for picture-perfect fun, mental health can take a backseat.

Here are some tips to make sure you take time for your mental health:
- Taking time for a walk, reading, or a relaxing bath can make a big difference.
- Embrace the chaos and focus on making memories, not perfection.
- Don't be afraid to delegate tasks
- Find a support group or online community to share experiences and feel less alone

27/05/2024

While ADHD itself isn't a mental health condition, it can often lead to struggles with anxiety, depression, or sleep issues. This can be frustrating and make daily life even tougher.

But here's the good news! There's help available. Focusing on managing your ADHD can make a big difference in your overall mental wellbeing.
Plus, there are treatments for any secondary mental health conditions you might be experiencing

isn't a barrier to happiness.

25/05/2024

Still my son.

So proud of my bestie Corinne for publishing her first book. I hope it bring support, understanding and compassion to all that read it.

‘So proud to share after 12 long years have finally published my book about Gabriel. Those of you who know what Matt and I experienced will be aware of how far we have come on this journey and how much we celebrate today with our family. The book is about life, loss and overcoming difficult times in our lives. Emotional day ✨️💕🥰’

Still my Son is a memoir which came to fruition following my second pregnancy in 2011. The memoir covers the story over the ten years from the beginning of the pregnancy and throughout the journey which led to the pregnancy ending in stillbirth. The reason for writing this memoir was because the ...

20/05/2024

Reflexology is an amazing therapy that focuses on applying pressure to specific points on your feet and hands.

By stimulating these points, reflexology it can help you:
👉De-stress and unwind
👉Feel calm
👉Boost your energy levels
👉Sleep better
👉Manage pain

13/05/2024

Did you know that what you eat can play a big role in managing PCOS?
Here are some delicious and PCOS-friendly options to add to your plate:

👉Rainbow colours: Vibrant fruits like berries and dark cherries are packed with antioxidants and have a lower glycemic index.
👉Veggies: Load up on leafy greens, broccoli, and cauliflower for essential vitamins and fibre to keep you feeling full.
👉Whole grain: Brown rice, quinoa, and whole-wheat bread provide sustained energy without blood sugar spikes.
👉Healthy fats: Don't be afraid of fats! Avocados, nuts, and olive oil offer healthy fats that can help regulate hormones.
👉Lean protein: Chicken, tofu and fish rich in omega-3s like salmon, are great sources of protein to keep you feeling satisfied.

06/05/2024

Feeling anxious? Here are some tips to help you manage it:

👉Breathe! Try slow, deep breaths for 5 minutes. Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 4 seconds. This can calm your heart rate and ease anxiety.
👉Move your body! Exercise is a great stress reliever. Go for a walk, run, dance, or do some yoga.
👉Talk about it! Sharing your worries with a friend, family member, therapist can be a big help.
👉Challenge your thoughts! CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) techniques can help you reframe negative thoughts.
👉Take care of yourself! Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and limiting caffeine and alcohol.

Remember, anxiety is treatable.

01/05/2024

Maternal mental health matters all the time, before, during, and after pregnancy.
This week is all about raising awareness of mental health struggles faced by mums during pregnancy and postpartum.

Many women experience conditions like anxiety, depression, and even OCD, but often feel alone or afraid to speak up. That's why it’s important to learn about the signs and symptoms of perinatal mental health conditions.