De-Stress Winter 2009/2010 by catherine Connors

In-House magazine

De-Stress

Winter 2009/2010

Find out the Benefits of Meditation

The Key to a Stress reduced Christmas inside this issue of De-Stress What is Social Anxiety - Find out inside The full facts on Reiki Photo - ÂŠ Sebastien Cassan

This issues model is Florine, she lives in France with her mummy, Nathalie and her dad ,Sebastian. She loves to chat, laugh and likes watching Dora the Explorer.

Barbara Gordon had the inspiration for Whatswhat.ie in 2002 and has been developing it ever since. Sian Phillips, originally from Wales, is now local to County Cork and Waterford borders and joined Whatswhat in 2007. A qualified accountant plus she has several years' sales experience. Two years ago Sian was looking at creating an online business directory in Ireland but saw that Whatswhat.ie was already well established so she contacted Barbara about working for her. They immediately hit it off, realising they saw the same business potential in Whatswhat.ie. And Sian invested in the company instead. Complete opposites in character Barbara is the out and about net-worker chatting to people in business meetings; Sian prefers to work from home on the Internet doing the

administration side of the business and online social media like Twitter, LinkedIn and FaceBook. In this respect they fit perfectly together business wise and have established a firm friendship too. Whatswhat.ie lists sole traders, shops and other businesses across the whole of Ireland. We provide a service to the general public and other companies that are searching for a business, product or service in Ireland, e.g. Plumbers, Hotels, Electricians, Accountants, Pet Shops, Cinemas and much much more. The user can search locally or nationally. In 2008 we invested in a new dynamic directory, extensive SEO, more regional sales staff and local advertising. Now in 2009 we are currently receiving 4000 visitors a day, over 5 million hits a month and more than 65,000 companies are listed with us. There are over 670 categories on the directory and 170 of those are on the first page of Google.ie bringing 17,000 companies with us. These figures are growing daily. It is free to list your business however if you wish to have a link to your web site and get ahead of your competitors with lots of other enhanced features it only costs â&#x201A;Ź200+vat per annum for a Top Ten spot or â&#x201A;Ź100+vat for a premium listing. Please visit www.whatswhat.ie for more information and contact details.

A Word from the Editor

www.stress-solutions4Life.com Email - stress_solutions4life@yahoo.com

So winter time has come again, the weather is getting colder and the days are getting shorter. This issue of De-Stress will give you some hints and tips to stay healthy this winter. With Christmas only around the corner this is the time of the year that many of us feel extra pressure and stress. Inside this issue of De-Stress is a great Christmas section packed with interesting articles, ideas and wonderful food recipes which will may help to reduce some of the stress associated with this time of the year. This year many of us will be feeling the pinch due to the recession and this issue has some wonderful saving tips for a Happy Christmas. Sometimes its wiser to cherish what we have already and be thankful that to wish for the end of the rainbow - that includes our families, children and partners. Enjoy your winter copy of De-Stress and a Happy Christmas to all. - Catherine A Connors

Content Cost and Stress Saving Ideas for Christmas Giving - Pg 4 Cocktail Corner - Pg 12 ‘The Dreaded ‘C’ Word’ - Pg 5

What is Social Anxiety - Pg 13

Christmas Tips - Pg 7

Finding the right Massage Therapy - Pg 14

The gift of Creativity - Pg 8 What the ‘beep’ is Reiki - Pg 16 The History of Santa - Pg 9 The Benefits of Meditation - Pg 17 Christmas/Winter recipes - Pg 10 Flower remedies to brighten up dark days Dreaming of a ‘Wine’ Christmas - Pg 11 Kid’s Page - Halloween Special How good is a glass of Wine - Pg 12 De-Stress is an in-house magazine and is published quarterly by Catherine A Connors. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure that all the information in this magazine is factual and correct at the time of press, the opinions expressed within this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher or Editor. Articles, advertisements and information in De-Stress are provided for education and debate only. The information contained within the magazine is not intended to be used by non-medically qualified readers as a substitute for, or basis of, medical treatment, since some material may be speculative and/or not in agreement with current medical practice. Check with your GP before trying any remedies and in particular always seek medical advice if you are pregnant of taking medication before following the advice given in articles or advertisements in this magazine.

Christmas Special

Cost and Stress Saving By Catherine Ullwer Ideas for Christmas Giving Christmas can be a stressful and expensive time but due to the current financial crisis or the C.F.C. as we 7 Don't forget to order your turkey and have taken to calling it in our house, many of you ham well in advance. ,I'm sure, are wondering how you are going to pay everyday bills, let alone begin to consider how to pay 8 Write your Christmas cards, address for Christmas celebrations this year. Everyone them, affix the postage and have them realises by now that a change has come and so many ready for posting on or before the the of you will want or need to trim back this year. So posting deadline. the questions are, how can we prepare for Christmas without stress and pay for it without breaking, what I promise you if you do the above, you'll be able to is left of the bank? put your feet up relax and enjoy the festivities and will have time and energy to spare in case of So here it is, my guide on avoiding Christmas unforeseen circumstances, of which there can be preparation stress: many. l 2 3 4

Start early, it helps cut down on stress and Present Giving on a Budget: spreads the cost. Bearer Certificate: - Why not give the gift of time Make a list, check it twice. rather than money. What do I mean? Instead of buying a gift why not give a gift of your time. You Write down suggested gift ideas, advance could use your computer to make up a bearer planning saves shoe leather. certificate, something along the lines of 'This Certificate Entitles the Bearer to....' an afternoon of As you purchase write it on the list, ever baby sitting, their garden weeded, their indoor plants find a present in your stash and can't re-pot, their car washed, a basket of ironing done, a remember who it is for, or buy two home cooked meal, a picnic lunch, the possibilities presents for the same person because you are endless. forgot you had one already? Now be honest Novelty Hamper: - I recently received a unique Birthday gift and thought what a simply and When you come home wrap your gifts as wonderful gift idea. A friend had recycled a pretty soon as possible and label them, it box she had and as she knew I was planning to run spreads the work load and avoids last half marathon this year she had put together a minute rushes to find, paper, tape and scissors as the guests are arriving or you hamper of little bits to help me on my way. It wasn't are rushing out the door to visit friends. very expensive but I had such fun rummaging in the box and got a kick out odd little things she had come Grocery shopping, again all non up with, like the pins to hold on my race number, the perishables should be got well in advance, foot bath salts and blister cream etc. It can be a fun it spreads the cost and saves the dreaded experience coming up with a theme and shopping 24 hour Supermarket run because you for the bits and it doesn't have to be expensive. can't get a parking space at a civilised hour.

Catherine Ullwer, lives between Ireland and Germany and as well as working freelance as a project manager, she also runs her own business as a Lifemax Independent Distributor supplying Mila â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Miracle Seed to the Irish and German markets. Mila is a natural raw whole food, high in Omega 3, fibre, antioxidants, minerals, with a wide range of health benefits including though not limited to improved heart health with lower blood pressure, blood sugars and cholesterol, soothing of digestive disorders, better hormonal balance for the relief of symptoms of PMT and menopause, reduction in anxiety and stress with improved quality of sleep and major

energy boosting properties. Mila also helps with other inflammatory disorders like arthritis, osteoporosis and helps athletes trainer harder, recover faster and reduce injuries. Although Catherine is relatively new too the business world she loves the flexibility her enterprises affords her and finds her work provides amazing opportunities for her creative energy and skills. To learn more about Mila â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Miracle Seed and it's extraordinary health benefits or to find out more about becoming a Lifemax Independent Distributor check out the Website:www.cullwer.lifemax.net or email: lifemax@cmcc.com or phone Catherine on + 353 86 835 0172.

De-Stress Magazine - Winter 2009/2010 - Page 4

Barter: - Home businesses are on the increase and you may have friends who produce crafts or sell other products. Maybe you have one such enterprise yourself. I have the experience, where I have a few customers who I barter my product for their services/gifts. Or maybe you are a dab hand at IT, word processing, photo shop, photography, writing copy etc. Small businesses are crying out for cost effective solutions to their business issues and an exchange of your skills for their product/service could easily be worked out. So get your thinking hats on. Kris Kindle or Secret Santa: - Organise a Kris Kindle or Secret Santa in your family, many families already do this amongst the adults members but why not extend it to the children too and by all means agree a lower price limit. As well as cutting down on expense it also cuts down on the stress because instead of coming up with several original gift ideas you need just one spark of brilliance or enlist the help of other family members if you are short on ideas. Check out the following link for an explanation on how to organise a Secret Santa or some novel variations on the theme e.g. Thieving Secret Santa or Secret Casino Santa: www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secret_Santa Christmas Cards: - Another cost associated with Christmas and for me a major causer of stress is the Christmas card list. Writing and posting Christmas cards is a task I do with little Christmas spirit in my heart. So why not save time, money, stress and the environment by coming up with an alternative. Send and email/ ecard/text with Christmas greetings, saying the money you would have spent has been given to charity. Charity Giving: - Speaking of charity, we are still a nation of comparative wealth, though many admittedly are struggling. Please don't forget those who are less fortunate. If you can give financially please do so but again many charities need a helping hand, so maybe you could commit to giving a few hours or a day once off maybe organise a coffee morning fund raiser or better still make a small commitment on a regular basis. These are just a few small suggestions which I hope might help or maybe they might spark another idea for you. You just need to think outside the box and remember just because things have been done a certain way for generations doesn't mean there isn't room for change, so surprise yourself and your family.

Christmas Special

The Dreaded ‘C’ Word! © - www.philipmichelson.com

8. Since the beginning of October, I have noticed the dreaded Christmas adverts making a subtle appearance. It’s almost as if they are quietly sneaking into our lives, just waiting for Hallowe’en to be over, and we will be inundated with noisy, shiny, twinkling adverts in all shapes and forms, on every billboard, screen, bus shelter and website. As Robert Paul so eloquently puts it “Even before Christmas has said Hello, it's saying 'Buy Buy'.” Other than acting like an ostrich, there is very little we can do to avoid the intrusion.

9. 10. 11. So 1. 2.

There are differing opinions about the right time to expose to the masses. I remember back in my own childhood, one wouldn’t hear of Christmas until at least the beginning of December, and the tree was bought just the week before. Ten years ago, I was hearing about Christmas in the media at the beginning of November and clearly remember thinking “It won’t be long now before they compete with the Hallowe’en paraphenalia on the shelves of Supermarkets”. So here we are, and the question I am pondering is: Is it wrong? For most, the end of the year is a bitter-sweet period, a time of joyful celebrations and of course the dreaded expenditures. As a consumer there are benefits of dealing with Christmas early on, especially for mothers and those who are particularly busy in the months of November and December.

3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

Can write meaningful cards over period of weeks, rather than the rushed greeting you used last year Channeling ideas and thoughts into suitable presents Being organised and less stressed during Christmas week Able to enjoy the inevitable events that happen during December

But what if you decide to head away for Christmas week or into the New Year? How does that affect your season plans and shopping?

Obviously, if you are heading away before Christmas, it is imperative that you decide if the gift shopping and delivery will be carried out previous to departure, or on your return. This may be influenced by date or your desire to “get away with murder”! There clearly are advantages to spending the holiday season away from home, however, just why should you wait until the last be clear about your plans. minute? Benefits of spending Christmas abroad: You can pick up great bargains 1. Weather – generally better, even if skiing The Christmas atmosphere is condu2. A well-earned break cive to shopping and spending 3. Less hassle (provided the holiday is hasGrocery prices are also generally sle free) slashed 4. Away from the hype on TV, especially You can dedicate one whole day to soap operas do all shopping together 5. Experience different kind of Christmas You can tackle the shops with a defestivities finitive list and complete everything 6. Don’t have to watch “Willy Wonka” or together “My Fair Lady” again and again You can rely on sales and special 7. You could do your Christmas shopping offers on the high street abroad, especially if this means saving You wont miss out on the “latest money overall release” of a particular product Allows for the inevitable last-minute To conclude: changes in Santa Lists

So when you are around, the choices are there. The choice is best made early on, so that at least you can stand by your decision to begin early or One never knows! leave it until the season is well under way.

Some of those benefits could include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

6. 7.

Getting everything you want Better choice of gifts to buy on the high street Spreading the cost over some months Joining Christmas Clubs to stretch payments of large gifts Allows adequate time to do other chores such as cleaning the house and grocery shopping for dinner or entertainment Can wrap at leisure Can utilise the internet to pick up bargains

Elaine Rogers of is a qualified Business Coach and Trainer. She works closely and empathetically with her clients to help them develop and enhance crucial aspects of their personal & business effectiveness. This ensures they achieve their maximum potential, and be the change they want to be. You can contact Elaine by the following means: Phone: +353 86 1955660 Skype: elainearogers E-mail: elaine@seefincoaching.com Web: www.seefincoaching.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/elainerogers

De-Stress Magazine - Winter 2009/2010 - Page 5

Christmas Special

Soaperstar The new Irish soap company ity that was trying to find a way out of each one dependent on the frahad found an escape in soap! grance used. And, for sheer indulgence, she also adds an additional Celine designs and manufactures all hydrating element called Lamesoft her soaps at home, carefully blending an Ecocert “green” biolipid derived colours, fragrances and design to cre- from 100% natural and renewable ate a luxury product. Initially, think- materials. This wonderful ingredient ing all soap is just soap, she found delivers a perceivable level of skin there are different types of soap and softness and smoothness that has to decided to pursue the art of glycerine be experienced to be believed. FabuSoaperstar is a new small company lous fragrance oils and skin safe cosspecialising in luxury glycerine soaps metic grade colourants are then designed and handcrafted in Dublin, added alongside natural, glittering Ireland. micas to enhance her sumptuous Coffee Culture products. Celine Blacow is the creative force behind Soaperstar and she started soapmaking as a hobby in order to de-stress from a very busy job in education administration. It was a chance conversation with a colleague, along with an increasing interest in soap crafting. Glycerine is a natural humectant which means that, when it's used in skin preparations, it draws www.soaperstar.com moisture into the skin, hydrating it Orange Blush and keeping it very soft and silky. This type of soapmaking can sometimes be called melt & pour, which really does not do justice to the artistry that can be achieved with this method. Celine’s designs stem from many Chunky Choc Delite sources – scents, a picture, colours, a Celine uses a blend of clear glycerine drive in the country, a day at the the ingredients used in her day-to-day and goatsmilk soaps to create her ocean; everything inspires! This love skincare, which made her realise that designs. She adds decadent luxury of all things bright and heady is incorsoap was something she could make elements by combining oils and but- porated into all of her soaps, as is a for herself, family and friends. She ters such as Apricot Kernel, Sweet little glitter – she just adores shiny really enjoyed the whole imaginative Almond, Coconut or Golden Jojoba things! She spends a great deal of process and realised that the creativ- oils and Shea or Cocoa butter, the use time designing and creating her soaps

Christmas Glistens

Local Discounts is a new discount card for you to save money off in your local shops and and online stores. Like a coupon you can use over and over again when shopping. Local Discounts also include an online discounts / special offers section which you can access with your discount card , they will issue you with a password and username to access this area once you purchase your discount card . The Card is a bargain at ONLY €10.00 . Once you have it you can use it wherever you go to redeem 10 % or more off products and services from participating businesses in Towns and Cities throughout Ireland. Your Local Discount Card will be valid for 12mths from date of purchase. Use it as often as you like : Save money off everything from, hotels, restaurants, gifts, boutiques, jewellers, kitchen design, web design,hairdesigners and more. No Local business in Ireland is excluded from this.

De-Stress Magazine - Winter 2009/2010 - Page 6

www.soaperstar.com

Goodas Gold as well as trialing them on her happy band of human guinea pigs. All of her soaps are suitable for use by vegetarians, none of them have been tested on animals, and, as is required by EU legislation, they have all been fully safety assessed so customers can be safe in the knowledge that her products are of the highest quality. She is proud to say that she will not sell anything that she has not fully tested herself, personally. Soaperstar soaps are available online at www.soaperstar.com and Celine can be contacted at info@soaperstar.com if you have any queries at all – she will be happy to help.

Twilight Hazel

www.soaperstar.com

Why not give a Local Discount card to family and friends this Christmas. Its a gift they can enjoy over and over again during the year. Sometimes a great gift comes in a small package.

www.localdiscounts.ie Email: info@localdiscounts.ie

Christmas Special Photo - © Sebastien Cassan

By Julie Philips Get online! Don’t hit the high ing your time and attention to someone can be street, curl up with a cuppa and your computer and grab some bargains in the comfort of our own home. There are many companies that don’t necessarily have a high street store but are prominent on the internet – type in the gift you are looking for and away you go

invaluable and makes a wonderful present. Get creative and make a personalised gift voucher offering a car wash, a foot rub or to cook meals for a week. The possibilities are endless! Share your Christmas – Christmas is a time for family, so get them all involved in the preparation for the big day – don’t do it all yourself! Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done and share them out. My children love putting out the sweets and treats on Christmas Eve and enjoy decorating the tree and my husband takes responsibility for Christmas dinner whilst I wrap the presents. Each of us has a responsibility and as a result we all feel we have contributed to our Christmas

Look for the bargains – both high street and online retailers offer some great deals, but don’t always advertise them. Hot UK Deals (http://www.hotukdeals.com) is the UK’s largest website that lists the latest deals and discounts for hundreds of retailers and catalogues including Argos, Debenhams, Littlewoods and Save the environment and your ink – if you have Marks & Spencer. Each deal is listed by savvy an extensive list of family, friends and colleagues The credit crunch has had a devastating impact shoppers across the UK who are more than happy you send cards to every year, save yourself time upon the global economy, fostering an air of inseto share information about the offers available and money by sending an e-card. At the click of a curity and uncertainty. These feelings can be magnified during Christmas, when limited finances Get your money back – and no, I don’t button you can send a personalised card to your online contacts wherever they are in the world. often see us search out the plastic to purchase mean queuing for hours at Customer Services! Ecards (www.ecards.co.uk) offer a great range of those must-haves. Unfortunately, this leaves us Quidco (http://www.quidco.com) is a cash-back cards that can be personalised with photographs, with credit card bills lingering long after the turkey cooperative website that works with over 1200 so you can be a dancing Santa in seconds! has been eaten. retailers that offer a percentage of your purchase A lot of time and effort also goes into making back in cash. Big names include Asda, Tesco, Using these tips will help you to make your ChristChristmas special. Think of the hours clocked up Apple and PC World. It’s very easy to use too. mas a success – without making it a time of excess searching for gifts in busy, bustling shopping cen- Create and account and click on the link to your (apart from turkey that is....) tres, writing out Christmas cards, attending nu- chosen site, browse and purchase. The percentage Merry Christmas! merous parties and Christmas plays, as well as the is calculated through Quidco and gets paid periodically to either your bank or Pay“big food shop”. No wonder when we get to the Julie Phillips is a life coach and meditapal account. There is a £5 annual big day we often feel frazzled! tion teacher with her own practice, Escape Lifesubscription charge, but if you style Solutions Limited, based in Cardiff, United This year, why not take a different approach? You are a regular online shopper or Kingdom. could save time and money by using my top use it a lot at Christmas you can get a great return. Percentages Escape offers lifestyle solutions to women in the form of Christmas tips below: vary with each retailer, so shop life coaching, meditation and relaxation therapy. Julie Set a budget. Stay in control of your spending around and find the retailer that runs personal coaching and relaxation therapy sessions from her two consulting rooms in Cardiff, as well as perand set yourself a budget for presents and food. will offer you the best deal sonal meditation tuition and classes. Make a list of who you need to buy for and what Whilst you can save money on To find out more about Julie’s practice, please visit food you want and STICK TO IT gifts at this time of year, somewww.es-cape.org.uk or contact Julie directly via times the best gifts are free. Givemail Julie@es-cape.org.uk With the festive season only a matter of weeks away, this time of year can often bring mixed feelings. The joy of spending time with loved ones can often be overshadowed by the immense amount of time and money that goes into creating the “perfect” Christmas.

De-Stress Magazine - Winter 2009/2010 - Page 7

Christmas Special

The Gift of Creativity By Jen Doyle

I have often thought how amazing it is that one word, just one single word, can create such a maelstrom of emotional and/or physical stress in so many people. Christmas. What does that word make you feel as you look at it? Dread? Excitement? Impending doom? Happiness? Why do you think that ‘’Christmas’’ makes you feel the way you do? If you actually look at it from a basic point of view- what is Christmas? There are many definitions of this word that depend on geography and

personal beliefs, which of course will how Santa gets down the chimney And then, because I have calmed vary from person to person. without getting stuck- or worse?! down and de-stressed myself, I often end up with an entirely new perspecCollins Dictionary and Thesaurus de- To me, as a very creative person- tive on how to handle whatever was fines Christmas as ‘’1. Annual festival Christmas is a gift in itself. I have bothering me. on Dec 25 commemorating the birth always found that creativity is a wonChrist. 2. Period around this time.’’ derful stress reliever. There are so I use creativity all the time as a way to many ways in which you can lose de-stress, and not just over the Nowhere in my dictionary does it your worries in creating something. Christmas period. And if you are define Christmas as reading this and thinking ‘’I wish I I spend hours just decorating the tree could do that- but I’m not really a ‘’Annual festival on Dec 25 com- alone! creative person.’’ memorating the birth of Christ involving huge amounts of stress, You can turn your hand to making I would answer that with ‘’try it and family arguments, turkey and cran- Christmas cards, wreaths to hang on see!’’ berry sauce followed by severe heart- your front door, decorations for your burn.’’ tree, an unusual Christmas stocking Doesn’t matter if you are not Leonfor your child/children, or even just ardo Da Vinci or the next Martha Personally, I love Christmas. I get to something as simple as baking cook- Stewart, all of us have some measure spend 3 days completely away from ies.. of creativity in us, and it is the act of work and switched off from the outmaking something with our own side world with my family. I get to It doesn’t matter if the end results are hands that helps to calm the mind. revisit my childhood and the excite- not picture perfect- it is the act of ment of Santa’s visit through my 4 creating something with your own I wish everyone a wonderful Christand a half year old daughter. How hands that matters the most. For me, mas holiday and all the best for the could I possibly resist such wide- it engages the imagination, quiets the New Year! eyed wonder as she contemplates mind and calms the heartbeat. www.doylejewellerydesign.blogspot.com

Jen Doyles is a Jewellery maker based in Co. Donegal, Ireland. Jen creates wonderful handmade jewellery which is ideal for Bridal wear and also as a gift for a loved one. www.doylejewellerydesign.blogsport.com

- Jen Doyle ties! These would be perfect for a bride/ brides- flowers are all hand made with shimmering ivory maid or for anyone who wants something that and silver glass seed beads. little bit different. These are Jen’s latest floral hairpins, designed and made to match a champagne wedding dress.

As you can see, Jen’s butterflies can be made in any colour combination, lots of different sizes, and can This is Jen’s latest haircomb, designed andmade be put onto hairpins, haircombs...hairvines..made for a Donegal bride to be. The buuterflies and into a necklace- making endless creative possibili-

De-Stress Magazine - Winter 2009/2010 - Page 8

Christmas Special

The History Of Santa Claus Santa Claus or Father Christmas appeared in the United States at the XIX century and in France in the early XX century. He distributes gifts to children during the night between the 24th and the 25th of December

legend). This character disappeared with the appearance of Santa Claus. During the Reformation, the Lutherans, who rejected the role of the saints, replaced Saint Nicolas with the baby Jesus (the german “Christkind”). It is in the Netherlands that Saint Nicolas became, after the Reformation, a secular character, Sinter Klaas.

Father Christmas is the equivalent of Sinter Klaas (Saint Nicholas) of the Netherlands. He is also similar to Julenisse, a Nordic lutin who brought gifts during the Midtvintersblot, the celebration of mid-winter, plus the Celtic god In Canada, for a very long time the French Gargan and the Viking god Odin. Catholics were using the baby Jesus, while Like Julenisse, Father Christmas kept his Santa Claus was distributing gifts to Engwhite bear, his hat and his furry coat. lish speaking children. He comes into the house and leaves gifts in front of the open fire (France), in a sock attached to the chimney (USA and UK) or simply near the Christmas tree. In Iceland he drops a small gift in shoes that children leave on their window from the beginning of December. In Europe, rituals to celebrate the coming winter are numerous. In a pagan tradition consisting in exorcising people’s fear of the dark, young men were masked and dressed up and were going from house to house to ask for treats. During Middle age, the Catholic Church replaced these pagan beliefs with holy saints. Nicolas of Myre (or Myra), Saint Nicolas, is the inspiration for Father Christmas. He lived at the IV century in the south of Turkey near Antalya. He was contemporary of the last persecution of the Nicée council. During the IX century, his body was stolen by Italian merchants but they forgot a piece of his skull and jaw. These were brought back to Bari in Italy, and later the relic would provide miracles. According to the legend, this relic was responsible for raising 3 children from the dead who had been killed by a horrible butcher. Since this time he is presented as the protector of the children. That is why, in his memory, on December 6th every year, in the northern and Easter countries, the custom of a character dressed like Saint Nicolas goes from house to house distributing rewards or gifts to children came to be. At the XVI century, the legend integrated Father “Fouettard” (“the bogyman”) who punished naughty children (the bogyman would be the original butcher from the same

By Frederic Bevalot

Before Father Christmas, the French Catholics were granting baby Jesus the gifts replaced by the Christmas celebration in the ceived during the Christmas Evening. United Kingdom with Charles Dickens “book of Christmas” During the XVIII century, Germans monarchs started the secularization of the country: In 1860, the New York newspaper Harper’s and the Christian figures were replaced by which was illustrated weekly, represented Faolder Germans symbols: elves, fairies and the ther Christmas dressed with a white fur coat old man of Christmas distributing fir-tree and a large leather belt. During 30 years, decorated with gifts. Thomas Nast, illustrator of the newspaper, drew hundreds of pictures of Santa Claus and In parallel, the United States adopted the built up the myth: a small man, plump, Dutch tradition to celebrate Saint Nicolas. dressed with a fur coat, smoking a pipe like The Dutch founded New Amsterdam at the the Dutch would have described him. It is XVII century, which is now New York. After Nast who first based, in one of his draw in the Independence war, New Yorkers remem- 1885, Father Christmas’s house in at the bered their Dutch origins and Sinter Klaas North Pole. came back in the literature. Sanctimonious, the old man Gingerbread with a white bear and long coat was rewarding the well350 gr of flour behaved children and was punishing the naughty one. 300 gr of sugar or 200 gr of sugar + 1 table spoon of honey Progressively, this “children celebration” was associated 100 gr of ground nuts or ground almonds to the Nativity’s celebration. 4 - 5 tea spoon of spices (clove powder, a lot of cinnaDecember 23rd, 1822, Clemmon, vanilla, nutmeg and 4 spices) ent Clarke Moore, an American minister, published a 1 packet of vanilla sugar poem called “A visit from Saint Nicholas” in which he 1 tablespoon of baking powder describes Saint Nicholas as a pleasant, plump, smiling 1/4 liter of milk goblin, or elf, who distributed gifts in houses using a 150 grs of melted butter & 2 or 3 table spoon of honey flying sleigh with eight reinto mix together deers names Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, 4 eggs Cupid, Donder and Blitzen. This poem was at the origin Put all dry ingredients together in a bowl and mix together of the present myth. Add liquid ingredients and mix well. Pour in a mold and put the mold in the oven for 20 It was in 1850 that Saint Ni- minutes at 200° colas tradition had been re-

De-Stress Magazine - Winter 2009/2010 - Page 9

Christmas Special

Christmas Recipes Alcohol - it’s not just for drinking

By Paul Keirnan

Even the most ham-fisted of cooks knows how to use up all that leftover turkey at Christmas. Curry, soup, or sandwiches - perhaps all three simultaneously for the real kitchen stars! In fact, simple meals fashioned from leftovers can often surpass the main roast turkey dish from which they derived. Whether this is because people tend to be more relaxed after the big day or simply because there are no sprouts is hard to say. Occasionally, you may have leftover alcohol too. Don’t leave it gathering dust in the cupboard. Sweat your assets – there’s a recession going on! Below are two warming winter recipes using booze as a key ingredient. Don’t worry about consuming extra alcohol either, as its evaporation point is just 78 degrees Celsius and so it will all have burned off by the time the dish is cooked, leaving only its delicious flavours.

Albondigas en Salsa de Tomate

Chicken Beer Casserole

This tapas-style dish translates as “Pork Meatballs in a Rich Tomato Sauce”. It’s easy to prepare and the ingredients don’t cost very much, especially if you already have the drink. A lot of herbs are listed; if you only have some of these that’s fine, just use extra.

1. Cut a chicken into pieces and fry in butter until the skin is brown. Add in two peeled, chopped shallots and fry lightly.

1. Heat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a large bowl, combine 650g of lean, minced pork; 2 pinches each of fresh rosemary, thyme, mint, basil, tarragon, coriander, and oregano; an egg; ½ Spanish onion, finely diced; a red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped; 300g fresh breadcrumbs; and salt and pepper. Dig in with your hands and combine well. Oil your hands and form the meatballs. Aim for about 24. Roll the balls in oil and roast in the oven for 30mins, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. 2. Heat 8 glugs of olive oil in a large saucepan. Add the other half of the Spanish onion, again finely chopped; one peeled and diced carrot; one finely diced celery stick; and salt and pepper. Fry until the vegetables start to soften and change colour. Pour in 70ml of Ruby Port (Oloroso sherry will do too) and 250ml red wine. Bring to the boil. Add 3 tins of plum tomatoes; 10 basil leaves, coarsely torn; and 2 bay leaves. Season to taste. Bring back to the boil, stirring. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15mins. Spoon in the browned meatballs, mix carefully, and cook for a further 10mins. Serve with plenty of fresh crusty bread and a rich Spanish red wine – Toro or Ribera del Duero would be ideal.

Roast Chestnut Soup By Frank Keogh 1.1lt (2 pints) Vegetable Stock or Water 450g (1lb) Chestnuts 110ml (4fl oz) Double Cream 2 Large Onions 2 Celery Sticks 2 Carrots 6 Large Garlic cloves 3 tbsp Dry Sherry 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil 2 Bay Leaves 1 tsp Yeast Extract (Marmite)

2. Pour in 60ml gin (proper Dutch Genever would be even better) and flambé it. 3. Transfer to a casserole dish and add 400ml of beer (I usually use Hoegaarden), and 1/3 cup of creme fraiche, a bouquet garni, salt, and a little cayenne pepper. Cover and simmer in the oven (about 190 degrees Celsius) 4. Add 250g finely-sliced mushrooms. 5. After 45mins (or whenever the meat is just done), remove the chicken and arrange on a serving dish. Put aside in a warm place. Remove the bouquet garni, add another 1/3 cup crème fraiche, and reduce by half. Mix a little of the sauce with an egg yolk, then pour this back into the casserole and beat vigorously. 6. Pour the sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with finelychopped parsley. Serve with rice, and the beer you used for the sauce.

2 tbsp Fresh Mixed Herbs Freshly Grated Nutmeg Roughly chop the onions, chop the celery and carrots. Heat the oil in a saucepan and add the onions. Cook, until they turn golden brown, but do not burn. Add two of the garlic cloves, the remaining vegetables, herbs and yeast extract. Cook over a high heat for 4-5 minutes or until lightly browned. Add the stock and bring to the boil. Lower the heat and simmer gently for 30 minutes. Strain through a fine sieve. Pre-heat oven to 200°C: 400°F: Gas 6

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Place the remaining garlic (unpeeled) and chestnuts on a baking tray and roast for 20 minutes or until the garlic is soft to the touch and the chestnuts are lightly browned. Cool slightly, remove the skins from the garlic cloves, peel away shells and inner skins from the chestnuts. Place the garlic, chestnuts and stock in batches in a blender or food processor and process until smooth. Pour into a saucepan, add the sherry and season with nutmeg. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 10-15 minutes. Serve the soup in warmed bowls and top with a tablespoon of double cream. Serves 8

Christmas Special

Dreaming of a ‘Wine’ Christmas By Paul Keirnan The frenetic pace of the Christmas season, with its endless parties, shopping, and entertaining, can leave the best of us feeling frazzled. During hectic periods, it’s especially important to take time out to smell the roses. What better way to unwind than with that most civilised and convivial of beverages, wine? Even the ritual of popping a cork (or twisting a screwcap, to a lesser extent) and hearing the gentle glug-glug as you pour has a soothing effect – you’re on Easy Street now.

having “discovered” sparkling wine long before its famous cousin, Champagne. France’s Cremant sparkling wines are made the very same labour intensive way as Champagne and are subject to equally strict quality controls, but market forces mean that they are available at much reduced prices and so represent an arresting price-quality proposition!

White

Money is tighter this year than last, for most people, and so there is an appetite for value wines. But don’t confuse “value” with “cheap”, as the two are not synonymous. Good wines can represent a real “affordable luxury” right now. That new car or Aga stove may have to wait a year, but a nice bottle of Burgundy or Bordeaux is still within reach. Go for it! Below are three wines for the Christmas season – a sparkling, white, and red - from Cases Wine Warehouse in Galway (091-764701 www.cases.ie ). All are French and were chosen with Christmas dinner in mind, but all are versatile (€13.95). Fresh, minerally wine with enough to crack open at any stage and plenty of nectarine, melon, lemon and drink either with or instead of food. white peach.

Bubbles (€17.95). Jaunty nose of white flowers and honey, followed by green apples, citrus and toast on the palate. Limoux is an unpretentious town in the eastern Pyrenean foothills in southern France. It can make a credible claim to

White wines from Burgundy’s Maconnais subregion are made for consumption within a year or two of the vintage, so this 2008 is drinking perfectly now. No doubt you will have seen the ubiquitous MaconLugny wine around. Macon-Uchizy is a broadly similar wine; both are 100% Chardonnays. A stone’s throw from Uchizy is the village of Chardonnay!

(€19.95). Admittedly, twenty euro is pushing the boat out for most people when it comes to wine, so maybe save this one for the main dining event. This full-bodied, Merlot-based Bordeaux is a delight, too! Rich and opulent, with aromas and flavours of cooked red fruit, earthy spice, and truffles, it will match especially well with roast lamb or game.

It isn’t unheard of for a person to unintentionally overindulge in the grape during the holiday season. If – through no fault of your own – you wake up one or more mornings with all the signs of a terrible hangover, follow my patented “Five Steps to Recovery” plan. 1. Take a painkiller. I prefer the ones that dissolve in water because I like the sound of fizzing, but it’s a personal choice. 2. Shower and dress. 3. Dissolve a rehydration sachet (available from pharmacy) in water and drink. You can make your own by dissolving a pinch of salt and a pinch of sugar in a glass of warm water too. 4. Ask your partner to make you breakfast. When she refuses, plead. While holding your head theatrically, explain that you didn’t actually drink that much and that it was probably the sulphites. 5. Undress and return to bed with green tea, manuka honey and lime – tomorrow’s another day.

Red De-Stress Magazine - Winter 2009/2010 - Page 11

Christmas Special

How good is a glass of Wine... By Matt Kane It always makes us feel that little bit better when enjoying a glass of red wine. It has been proven to lower the risk of heart attack, raise your HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) and lower LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), prevent blood clots and reduce blood vessel damage caused by fat deposits. Recent research even suggests that it protects against lung cancer, and protects men against prostate cancer. So what’s the secret? Red wine is a particularly rich source of antioxidants flavonoid phenolics. Flavonoids exhibit antioxidant properties helping prevent blood clots and plaques formation in arteries. Resveratrol, found in grape skins and seeds, increases HDL cholesterol and also helps prevent blood clotting. OK, so if you’re still following, these things are good for your health. It only gets more interesting when you hear that white wine is as cardioprotective as red wine. Polyphenolic antioxidants reside in the skin and seeds, so red wines will extract these properties easily because of contact with the skins during production. However, the flesh, or the pulp, of the grape is said to provide the same benefits, according to research done by the University of Connecticut School of Medicine in 2006. Indeed, studies have shown that people from the Mediterranean who regularly drink red wine have a lower risk of heart disease. Here’s another point. Ever wonder how Ireland has one of the highest cases of heart disease in Europe, while France has one of the lowest, despite a similarly high fat diet? Could it be something to do with wine? The problem is, too many of us like to binge on alcohol. If we consume wine , say, a glass a day with our evening

Cocktail Corner Good wines are all very well, but cocktails can bring extra oomph and glamour to Yuletide proceedings. Much as we naturally gravitate towards red wines in winter, brown spirits can similarly prove more enticing than white at this chilly time of year. Luckily, we have a real gem right here on our doorstep in the form of Irish whiskey. The easy option is to go with a Hot Toddy – it’s a proven favourite, most people can make a decent attempt at it, and the scalding glass can help you forget about the inevitable numbing drizzle outside. For more audacious mixologists, however, there is the Champagne Julep. Suspend your alarm, there is no need to use actual Champagne here, unless you have far too much money. Many other sparkling wines – particularly Cava or Cremant – will suffice.

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meal, all the research in the world would indicate that you’ll be doing your health a favour. We just need to ensure that it doesn’t turn into an unhealthy habit by consuming too much - easier said than done I hear you say. The Harvard Men’s Health Watch notes that men who enjoy alcohol and can drink in moderation and responsibly may benefit from a lower risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, and cardiac death. Whether you need advice in selecting your wines, need to arrange a return or simply have questions, we're happy to help. You're welcome to contact us during business hours. Thanks!

www.curiouswines.ie E-mail - curious@curiouswines.ie Curious Wines recommend Greenhough Nelson Pinot Noir 2006. Our best Christmas dinner wine! (€15 after discount, usually €20) Offer ends 1st January 2010. Classic New Zealand Pinot, light, fruity & a taste of the vineyard. Fragrant, lifted nose of ripe black cherries with dark chocolate/mocha and a dried herb complexity. The palate has a soft entry with good concentration of red plums and sweet raspberry fruit. There is spicy clove and oak to finish with a herbal, rosemary sappy complexity. Try with roast salmon, lamb and duck (may even stretch to the heavier meat dishes). I’ve opted for Greenore 8 Year Old as the whiskey here, simply because it’s my favourite, but any other Irish or American whiskey will do. Greenore comes from current ‘World Distiller of the Year’, Cooley Distillery, which is based in Louth. Unusually for Irish whiskey, it’s single-grain (corn) and is made in a rich, opulent style not dissimilar to Bourbon. In fact, Greenore is matured in ex-Bourbon barrels, from which it derives much of its luscious, exotic character. Anyway, for your Jacob’s Creek Julep (!) use a Collins Glass or tumbler. Combine four mint leaves with a teaspoon of caster sugar and a little water – then muddle (mash) well. Add two ounces of Greenore 8 Year Old Irish Whiskey and stir. Strain into the glass, then add ice cubes and four ounces of whichever house sparkler you have to hand. Garnish with another two mint leaves and – voila! – serve to dazzled friends and family.

By Paul Kiernan

Health & Wellbeing

What is social anxiety it doesn’t have to be physical. A phone call, or writing a letter, can be just as devastating), is a matter of life or death. Not literal physical death of course, but the next thing – your very “self”, your being, is put at the ultimate risk. Your whole self-worth depends on how this situation/encounter ends. And you know beforehand that you will fail. Because you know you are not loveable. You are weird, strange, quiet, awkward, stupid, ugly or whatever negative self-describing adjective Photo - © Catherine A Connors you can come up with. Or even worse, you feel you are invisible. “Why am I so damn nervous? Now A “nothing”. Of course you will fail! And I am blushing, my heart is pounding, they after the fact, you proved yourself right. “Yes, must think I am a total idiot! I’m so weird. Oh see, Marie, you are hopeless.” no, my hands are shaking. I have to hide them so noone can see how nervous I am! Why That’s social anxiety disorder (SAD), or with can’t I just be normal, like everyone else? Oh an alternative less appropriate name, social no, I can’t find anything to say, I’m so boring. phobia. This person will never want to talk to me again. Who can blame her?”. Some so-called experts describe social anxiety as being afraid of making a fool of oneself. Welcome. You were just now invited into the That description gets to me because it simplimind of a social phobic in a social situation. fies the whole thing horribly and gives the Perhaps when talking to you. idea that social phobics lack a sense of humour or that they can’t laugh at themselves. It’s almost offensive! I think a more accurate By Marie Elmqvist description of social anxiety is a very deep Imagine that every social situation, every en- basic human fear – the fear of not belonging, counter with another person (and mind you, of being left-out, of not being part of the My name is Marie Elmqvist. I am 38 years old and live on my own in a mid-sized town, Lidingö, right outside Stockholm in Sweden. I work as a receptionist but dream of a whole other existence of creativity and independence. I am educated in a variety of areas like language, journalism, media and communication science and graphic design. I love to write, so that would be a dream come true if I one day could support myself using the written word in some way. Other than writing my hobbies include reading, blogging, (amateur) singing, languages and photography. I don’t excel in any of them but I enjoy them very much and would like to be able to spend more time on each and everyone one of them. I am also an animal lover. I love all animals (well – with exception of snakes and spiders and other slimy creatures and insects. But they have their right to exist too of course, just not anywhere near me!) but I especially love cats. I swear I must have been a cat in a previous life, if such a thing exists, because I definitely feel connected to these beautiful cute little creatures. I also want to spread knowledge of social anxiety to the general public, so if anyone wants to learn more about it, feel free to contact me. Marie Elmqvist Blog: http://mias.blogg.se (bilingual) Youtube: http:www.youtube.com/MTEvideo E-mail: marie.elmqvist@comhem.se

group – gone to an extreme. The disorder is not the fear itself but acquired misconceptions of thoughts, self image, reality and other people’s view of you that turn the fear into this crippling self-fulfilling anxiety. There are of course different degrees of social anxiety too. For some, it’s mild, or isolated to certain specific social situations. They can function pretty much normally, but they don’t like being in the centre of attention or they blush easily or they avoid speaking their mind in a group or won’t speak in front of an audience (the most common SAD symptom). They might make up excuses to get out of the most anxiety-provoking social situations but make it through others. For other people, the anxiety can be so severe it affects every aspect of their life. Just the thought of taking out the trash or going to the store can be combined with such high anxiety that they just can’t do it. Remember what I said in the beginning – every social encounter can be a life-death situation. Even the mere risk of running into someone can be enough for these people. Perhaps they are not able to work, with all the social situations and social stress that requires. It also affects a person’s ability to make new friends, find a partner and start a family or maintain the friendships and family relationships they once had. Depression and self-medicating substance abuse (people use alcohol or drugs to be able to socialise at all) are common “side effects” of this disorder. For me my social anxiety has kept me from fulfilling my dreams and from believing in myself as a social person. It has led to a deeply rooted self hate, low self esteem and bad self image. The older I get, the more I realise how much impact the disorder has had and has over my life and how I see and feel about myself. So far the disorder has given me an isolated life without many friends (I have fortunately been blessed with few but very good ones instead, and for that I am forever grateful!) and no family of my own, and the lack of a professional career. I can work, but I can’t give myself the career I want, so I am stuck with low income jobs way below my skills and education. I have lived a life ruled by this fear as far back as I can remember, even though the actual social anxiety started to “blossom” in my teens, which is very common. The turning point came when I was 32 years old (now six years ago) and felt that I had reached the bottom. Life had to be more than the vacuum of fear I was living in. I felt like I was living my life watching it from inside a glass bottle, without being

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Health & Wellbeing able to take part. I saw all the things I wanted, right there in front of me like a tease, so close, but still out of reach. This could not be “it”. My life could not be meant to be this hell I was living. The anxiety just kept getting worse, never better. Right at that time, by coincidence of fate, I saw an ad in a newspaper where they announced a science project to which they needed people with social anxiety to take part. It was a scientific study trying cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to treat anxiety disorders over internet. I took this chance that fate handed to me. I filled out the form, got called for an interview, and was accepted to the project. For the first time my eyes were opened to the real truth.

truths of reality. My “truths” contained life conceptions and life rules that I thought I had to live by to be “accepted”, to be loveable and likeable. It also contained very devious deceiving self-degrading thoughts about myself that had led to a truth of enormous self hate – “I am weird, ugly, not worthy, stupid, a failure, totally worthless” etc. I learned how the vicious circle of these “truths” of thoughts and feelings kept the social anxiety in an endless increasing spin. The CBT helped me challenge my negative thought patterns, my life conceptions and self image – I could finally see a different more realistic reality. The spin slowed down. I haven’t been able to completely stop it, but I have come a long way.

you are put through other emotional stress, the thoughts have a tendency to sneak up on you again, so slowly that you at first don’t notice them. It’s not until they make you feel you notice them, and by then, the harm is already done. You have a setback. But once you have started the fight, the setbacks are learning experiences. Every setback you get will make you more prepared for setbacks and their warning signs in the future. Fighting social anxiety is two steps forward and one step back. But even with the setbacks, you are always one step further than you were before. Every step is an uphill climb, and sometimes you are so tired from the high hill that you slip back. But every step and every slip are totally worth the effort. You choose the fight, because you don’t want the alternative.

One that was totally different to the one I had previously had in my head. However one thing is true about social anxiety, and that is that it’s not something you can It’s a matter of life and death! I found out that my thoughts and the feelings ever stop fighting against. The moment you they caused had in my mind become distorted relax from the fight and social exposure, or if

Finding the right Massage Therapy? The word massage is believed to come from the Greek word ‘Massein’ meaning ‘to knead’. Massage therapy may be one of the oldest forms of physical medicine, and early Chinese Medical manuscripts on massage can be traced back to 400BC. So it’s been around a very long time. Hippocrates advocated massage during the fifth century and during Roman times massage was widely used and recorded, even Julius Caesar was known to have massage for medical problems.

detect most physical and emotional problems Repetitive strain injury (or RSI) during a massage treatment. Circulatory and respiratory problems People get massage therapy for relaxation, Post-injury and post surgical care stress relief or for a variety of health conditions. Some of the most common health conditions that a massage therapist deals with are: A typical massage therapy session is between 40 and 90 minutes in a quiet room on a padded massage table. Your massage will Back pain, muscle tension, aches and begin with a brief consultation and review of pains symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle.

By Catherine Bevalot The massage therapist uses a light oil or lotion on the skin and begins the masBetween 1776 and 1839, a Swedish professor, Peter Ling, created a scientific sage. Normally a full body massage will system of therapeutic massage known as start with you lying on your back, the Swedish massage and established a therapist will massage legs, arms and teaching institute in Stockholm. This abdomen before you are asked to turn Swedish massage is the most widely over. The massage then continues on known and popular massage in the the backs of your legs, with back, shoulworld today. Many other massage theraders and neck for last. This routine can pies are gaining much popularity now depend from therapist to therapist, howand massage therapy is one of the fastest ever I leave the back for last as I find for most growing holistic forces in the field of health Inflammatory conditions such as arthritis clients this is the most relaxing stage of their care. and tendinitis massage. The body is covered with a very large towel or sheet, and only the part of the Massage is simply the manipulation of the Stress relief and stress-related illnesses soft tissues of the body; the muscles, tendons (massage is very beneficial for stress relief body being treated is uncovered. and ligaments. Massage therapy improves as it lowers the levels of stress hormones circulation by bringing oxygen and other nu- in the body such as cortisol) After the massage, the massage therapist trients to body tissues. It relieves muscle leaves the room so you can get changed. You tension and pain, increases flexibility and Headaches and migraines should be invited to take your time getting up, mobility, and helps clear lactic acid and other as to sit or stand too quickly after a massage waste & toxins, which reduces pain and stiff- Muscle and related conditions such as may leave you a little light-headed. ness in muscles and joints. A qualified and spasms, strains and sprains experienced massage therapist will be able to

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Health & Wellbeing The ten most popular massage treatments are –

1. Swedish massage Therapy - This is the most common type of massage therapy in the world today. If you have never had a massage before and are looking to begin, this massage would be a good starting point.

Aromatherapy Massage – Aromatherapy massage is a therapy with the addition of one or more essential oils to aid a particular problem or specific need. This is a wonderful relaxing massage and one of my personal favourites.

3. Hot Stone Massage – Also known as Hot Stone treatment where heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centres in the body. This is becoming a popular therapy for those who prefer lighter massage.

Pregnancy Massage - Pregnancy massage is becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers. Pregnancy massage is used to reduce stress, decrease swelling, and reduce anxiety & depression and to relieve aches and pains at a time when medication cannot be freely taken.

10 Reflexology – Also known as planter massage or foot massage, however, this therapy is more than simple foot massage. Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet. It is also a wonderful massage for anyone who is body-shy and wouldn’t normally have a massage, as only the shoes and socks are removed.

with all treatments and therapies, massage is not recommended for Deep Tissue Massage - Deep tissue massage targets As certain people or certain conditions such as -

the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. Deep tissue massage is used for tight or painful muscles, RSI, problems with posture or recovery from injury. It can be People with infectious skin diseases, rashes, or open quite intensive and you may feel tender or sore for a day or wounds two after.

Sports Massage – This massage is designed for people

Immediately after a surgery of any kind

who are involved in physical activity. But you don't have to be an athlete to have one, it's also used by people who are Immediately after chemotherapy or radiation, unless recactive, have physically demanding jobs and have muscle ommended by your doctor (in which case you will have to injuries. The focus isn't on relaxation, and sports massage present a letter from your doctor to the therapist) can be intense, you may be sore for a day or two after.

Back Massage - Some massage clinics and therapists People with heart disease or blood clots unless you have (that includes me) offer 30-minute back massages. Back massage can be very relaxing and there is much focus on the neck and shoulders also, perfect for those suffering from aches and pains in the back, neck and shoulders. Those working in offices or in high stress jobs will find they have localized pain in these areas.

Pregnant women should check with their doctor first if they are considering getting a massage. Massage for pregnant women should be done by a therapist who is certified in pregnancy massage, and I would personally Shiatsu - Shiatsu is a form of Japanese massage that uses recommend that your therapist has a least 3 to 5 years specific pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture experience in the field. meridians, which improves the flow of energy and helps the body to re-balance.

permission from your doctor.

There’s no denying the power of massage, regardless of why we

Thai Massage - Like shiatsu, Thai massage aligns the decide to have massage, (pampering ourselves, therapeutic, stress energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage is more energizing than other forms of massage, and the therapist will move and stretch your body into different positions.

relief, pain treatment), regular massage therapy should be a must in our health-care regime and emotional well-being. The benefits of massage are wide and varied, and this makes massage one of the best holistic therapies on offer in today’s modern world.

Your face greets the world every day, but is also exposed to pollutants and harsh conditions. Treat yourself to half an hour a week to remove toxins from your skin, nourish it and restore brightness to your complexion – in the relaxed comfort of your own home. www.giftedbynature.ie Email - ask@giftedbynature.ie

Health and Wellbeing

What the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Bleepâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; is Reiki? By Mary McGrory Everybody's heard about Reiki, it's been around for a while now, most people know someone who's tried it or trained in it, but it's still not clear what it is exactly. Basically it's a hands on healing technique that is believed to have been rediscovered in Japan by Dr.Mikao Usui in the late 1800's. Rei means universal and Ki means energy or life-force as in Qi or Prana. The fact that anybody can learn this technique with no previous experience or knowledge being necessary, makes it hugely attractive and accessible.

Why have a Reiki session? It is very relaxing and balancing. Daily stresses are gently ironed out and it can be very effective on deeper blockages. Once you start to feel calmer and more grounded, your perspective on problems and past experiences changes for the better, this can be very liberating. Of course the other advantage is the reduction of physical reactions to stress, typical to each person. These can include eczema, psoriasis, stomach or digestion problems, headaches, asthma, anxiety and tension. Reiki is also very well known for pain relief and has been used on depression and panic.

source. This is just the beginning. The most important work is to practice on oneself to release blockages and unload old baggage in order to develop a stronger connection and deeper relationship with the self. The more you practice Reiki the stronger the connection becomes, meaning a faster and more powerful experience, enhancing a feeling of well-being, peace, and security with the goal of facilitating the person's own healing response. It's really amazing to be able to access this relaxing energy anywhere and any time you want, for example in a stressful situation or in the middle of the night when you can't sleep and your head is full of worries. Traditionally speaking there are 3 levels and one can start practicing on oneself and one's family and friends after acquiring the first degree. The second degree includes symbols that enhance the application of Reiki and with the third degree you will receive the Master symbol and learn how to teach and connect others to this system. The more often you connect to the Reiki source the stronger the connection becomes to your inner self which is essential for personal development and self-healing.

Reiki Master What happens in a Reiki session? A relaxing atmosphere is very important, this can include candles, music and ambient lighting. Before beginning, the practitioner may ask specific questions about why the client is there and what they expect. This is very helpful as focusing on the problem helps to release it. Then sitting or lying down in comfortable clothes the practitioner will place their hands on or above the body, either following the traditional hand-positions or intuitively choosing areas that need energy. Reiki is intelligent and goes where it is needed, of course only if and when the client is ready to change. A regular Reiki session lasts about 60 to 90 minutes.

How does it work? Blockages occur in the energy meridians of the body usually from unreleased emotions or physical shocks and jolts. These go unnoticed and can create problems later on that don't appear to be connected to the original event. Reiki finds these blockages and gently but powerfully releases them, thus allowing the energy to flow again naturally. The result is a wonderful feeling of calm and relaxation regularly accompanied by plenty of healthy sighing and yawning.

Reiki Training Reiki can be easy and quick to learn. Training is usually done on a weekend, this includes an initiation into the subject or level, with a ceremony using sacred symbols that connects the student permanently to the Reiki

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This title is not as ego boosting as it appears. The person who chooses to take this level is guided to understand the responsibility involved. They do not become instant masters on the subject of Reiki or healing. Rather, they have chosen to begin a path of deeper personal work with the end result being to master themselves and thereby having greater experience to understand and guide others. All Reiki Masters/Teachers are equal, but their life experiences and how they apply their training may result in a very different encounter.

Mary McGrory Reiki Master Teacher All training received in Ireland Practicing since 2000 Teaching since 2003 Living near La Rochelle, western France Bi-lingual mary-mcgrory@yahoo.com

Health & Wellbeing

The Benefits of Meditation By Hilda Carroll Meditation and the benefits to In meditation we enter a state called restful the physical body awareness. And in this state the body also undergoes a number of physiological changes: The true purpose of meditation is to connect with spirit. But a wonderful side-effect is that · heartbeat decreases it alleviates stress and the effects of stress on · blood pressure normalises our bodies. When the body experiences stress it releases hormones that cause a number of physiological changes: ·

heartbeat increases

blood pressure rises

breathing speeds up

sweating increases

blood platelets become sticky

All of these changes were essential to primitive man. This is what is known as the ‘fight or flight’ response and the changes that occur prepare the body to literally fight or run for its life. However, in modern life we rarely have this urgent survival need. Yet we still experience "stress" when we perceive a threat to our happiness or the manifestation of our desires. These days most of our stresses are mental or emotional - they are caused by how we react to circumstances. And it doesn't matter if the perceived threat is real or imaginary - the body will still have the same changes in "reactive response" as it does in "fight or flight response". Nowadays, instead of fighting or fleeing in times of stress, we tend to stew in it a little bit (or even a lot!). Consquently, the stress hormones that are coursing through our veins are not being properly discharged, and over time they accumulate and erode our immunity. Ongoing stress causes anxiety, depletes seretonin (leading to depression), aggravates the symptoms of pre-existing medical conditions, and can be the seed that leads to the development of a wide range of physical illnesses.

breathing quietens

sweating is reduced

What about serious chronic and terminal illnesses? All illnesses have a spiritual origin and a spiritual solution. Spiritual practices can and do lead to miraculous healings all the time. But having a spiritual practice is not a castiron guarantee to anything - there will be other factors involved in the healing or nonhealing of any disease.

Having said that, regular meditation strengthens your immunity and raises your energetic vibration - thereby working in your favour Notice anything? when it comes to looking for recovery from The physiological changes experienced dur- physical illness. Everything that exists in the ing meditation are the reverse of those expe- physical world, though it appears to be solid rienced during stress! In a nutshell: matter, is energy vibrating at different frequencies and this includes the state of your meditation is the antidote to stress. health. The vibration of health is a high one, while sickness is a low vibration. To recover from illness you need to raise your energy vibration and meditation helps with that. ·

immunity is increased

Photo - © Catherine A Connors During meditation the body receives a very deep level of rest, allowing healing to take place. When practiced regularly it can heal the accumulated effects of stress already present in the body. Plus when you meditate you integrate qualities of peace and stillness in your everyday life. This has the side effect of making you less reactive to situations that would have previously irritated, frustrated, worried or upset you. So, by meditating, not only do you get to alleviate the effects of stress that already exist in your body, but you also become less likely to become stressed in the present.

The presence of stress in the body or mind aggravates existing medical conditions. As meditation alleviates stress and improves immunity, it helps with the overall wellness of both the body and mind. It has been shown that many conditions such as PMS, anxiety/depression, diabetes (types 1 and 2), high cholestorel, and irritable bowel syndrome can all be alleviated with meditation.

It is possible that (twice) daily meditation could lead to complete recovery. But when it comes to cases where a cure is not the outcome of a meditation practice, there are still benefits to be experienced. We all die of something at some point, and healing doesn't necessarily involve a cure. But it does involve the alleviation of suffering, and that will be discussed more in the next couple of posts. Whether the problems in your life relate to physical illness, relationship difficulties, financial hardship or any other crisis, meditation absolutely can help to provide a solution.

What can meditation do about all of this? It's all good really.......

De-Stress Magazine - Winter 2009/2010 - Page 17

Health & Wellbeing

Flower remedies to brighten up dark days By Elaine Larkin Apart from being a token of love, bunches of flowers are often ideal gifts for people who need a bit of cheering up. In the same note, enjoying the beauty of flowers, plants and trees can be a great way to lift one’s spirits or achieve some clear thinking on a troublesome topic.

Most of the big brand names in flower essences sell combination remedies such as Rescue Remedy or Emergency Essence. Often to be found in bathroom cabinets, handbags, car glove compartments and office drawers, these combination remedies have found their way into many families life as a So it’s no surprise then that approximately 75 quick fix for dealing with stress, shock, beyears ago somebody came up with the idea reavement, nerves in people of all ages – and that flowers could help people with emotions even pets. and having a more positive outlook. Dr Edward Bach, who worked at one stage as a However, despite the popularity and benefits Harley Street consultant before turning to of these types of combination remedies, havhomeopathy, developed a flower system of ing knowledge of the full range of essences 38 remedies made from wild plants, trees and can be useful for the treatment of specific bushes, each of which can help a person’s imbalanced emotional states. emotional state. Honeysuckle for example can help somebody whose mind is on the past instead of the Rather than just handing someone a bunch of present. flowers, flower essences are available in tiny bottles with a dropper – people can drop a If you’re impatient or always 'on the go' few drops onto their tongue or into a bever- Black-eyed Susan can help you slow down age. and find inner peace. Rose for the Heart is the perfect remedy for a broken heart. ColumHowever, Bach isn’t the only person to dis- bine is for those with a weak sense of self and covered the benefits of flower essences to can help people appreciate their own unique emotional states. Long before, in Australia, beauty. Showy Oregano is beneficial for the Aboriginal people, had discovered similar teamwork and releases fear of being in groups benefits using what was available to them in or in public. Sweet Chestnut is for those their environment. 66 essences are now mar- under pressure who feel their not able to cope keted under the Australian Bush Flower Es- with mounting responsibilities. sences range. Other ranges include Peruvian Flower Essences and Andean Orchid Flower Professionals working in the area can make Essences of Machu Picchu, both from Peru, combination remedies up to help with someRose for the Heart, Stewart Essences, Santa thing such as helping concentration at work, Barbara Flower Essences and Alaskan Es- for example. However, it is possible to take sences. the DIY approach.

Elaine Larkin is a journalist and website copywriter ving and working in the south east of Ireland. Elaine holds a degree in Communications (Journalism) and a post graduate diploma in business in Enterprise Development. She has written extensively on business-related topics as a print journalist and has also worked in corporate communications. Elaine has had a life-long interest in complementary therapies, especially Bach Flower Remedies, Reflexology, Kinesiology, Dowsing and Geopathic Stress. By the age of 18, she had trained as a Reiki Master and in Indian Head Massage. Website:http://www.elainelarkinmedia.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/elainelarkin

De-Stress Magazine - Winter 2009/2010 - Page 18

Either through consulting a therapist specialising in flower remedies, or perusing brochures in retail outlets, books or online resources on the topic people can discover that buying a specific flower remedy or mixing a number of the essences (using a mixing bottle) can help them work through some emotional issues and might just be what they need to get on in life. There’s plenty of reading material available online and even if you don’t want to purchase or try a remedy having a look through the various states can be a fun way for a bit of self reflection! Some Tips Books If you would like to find out more about flower remedies there is a wealth of books available on the topic – online, in bookshops and also on occasion in health food stores. Buying remedies While the full range of flower remedies are normally not available in most pharmacies it is worthwhile checking with a local health food shop to see if they stock them. There is a wide range of websites selling flower essences from all over the world. Courses If you would like to become an expert in mixing flower remedies for friends and family or explore it as a career option, it could be worth your while attending a course, for example. These take place in various locations nationwide, see local advertising or do an online search for details. Weblinks http://www.bachcentre.com/centre/ remedies.htm - gives details of the 38 remedies DR Edward Bach came up with http://www.ausflowers.com.au/shop/ scdproducts.asp?catid=1 - lists the 66 Australian Bush Flower essences http://www.baldwins.co.uk/FlowerEssences/345 and http:// www.starfloweressences.com/ are two suppliers that give a good overview of a wide range of flower essences.

Kids Page Me and my Halloween Friends I’m an apprentice witch, my name is Carabosse. I love being naughty. One day, I even scared my Halloween friends. I call them my Halloween friends because I only see them on ‘All Hallows Eve’. Halloween is in 3 days. I’m looking forward to seeing them. My problem is that I did not brew any magic potion to cook a child. But I can concoct it tonight. One day passed quickly, another flew by and here we are: it is Halloween night. I put on my most terrible dress and I take off to the world of ‘normal’ people. In the world of normal people, I find my Halloween friends forcing a child to drink their potion. I forgotten to give you their names: there is Fifi the Pumpkin, Pets the Vampire, Lulu the ghost, Nana the rat and me, Carabosse the Witch. Back to my friends story, they are poisoning a child. We start discussing and they ask me if I want to share the child they poisoned with them. So I say, Yes. We devour the child in less than 5 minutes. Now it is for me to poison a child, I cant find any but I meet my friend Ploc, my best friend.

A little History of Halloween

I’m surprised to meet him here and now. So is he. We chat together and we finally meet a child asking for sweeties. I make him sick in order to eat him. Ploc has the same idea in mind. Ploc asks me to share the child in two pieces. I don’t want to, I’ve already promised to share it with someone else. Ploc is disappointed and he is in a bad mood. I leave him and I go back to see my Halloween friends.

This story was written by Rebecca - she lives in France with her mummy, Daddy and big sister Sarah. Rebecca

loves

They are annoyed at me, I have nothing to eat, Theatre, sports, they are mad at me on our special day. I leave design, drawing them crying. I pass by a child and I cry thinking and creating stothat my Halloween friends become my Halloween enemies. I want to become a nice witch. Cararies. She also loves spending time bosse the nice witch. Maybe inside me I’m already nice. I want to be. At random I meet Ploc again. He smiles. He tells me the child he devoured was will come to me. They still want to be my friend yummy. I say I want to a nice and free witch. He but they are astonished that I wish to be nice. I tell is surprised. them I’m happy but that I will still be a nice witch weather they agree with it or not. They agree. We By the way, did I tell you how I wanted to solve my say goodbye. Halloween is over. I can change problem with my Halloween enemies: I simply everything I want. 1, 2, 3 up everyone flew home, told them that they might want to be my friend Carabosse yelling “Goodbye my friends - see you again. Even if I thought they feel they might not next All Hallows Eve”. want to be my friend, it is worth trying. I’m sure that when I will be alone, Fifi will crack and she Halloween is a Holiday that takes place in the night between the 31st of October and the 1st of November. It is mostly celebrated in Ireland, Canada, Australia, Great-Britain and USA.

By Frederic Bevalot

Children disguise with terrifying costumes (vampire, ghost, witches…) and go from door to door to ask adults for sweeties, fruits or money by crying out “Trick or Threat”, this is one of the most famous tradition Halloween is mostly an Anglo-Saxon folklore holiday with Celtic origins based on the 1st of November, when in the ancient Celtic religious calendar the Samain used to take place. This tradition was brought to America at the end of the XIX century by Irish, Scottish and others immigrants. Halloween main symbol is the pumpkin that came from the Irish legend of Jack-O-Lantern. You normally draw and cut the eyes, the nose and the mouse. Finally you insert a candle into it to illuminate your lantern.

During Celtic history, there was a celebration called Samain, lead by the druids during 7 days (Samain day, 3 days before and 3 days after)

In the celtic mythology, Samain, (or Samhain in Ireland, Samhuin in Scotland and Sauin on the isle of Man) is the religious celeIt is the period of possible bration marking the start of the “Season of shadows” of the Celtic year. mythical meetings between humans and the gods of Tuatha Dé DanIn the Celtic calendar the year is diann. The Celtic civilizavided in two period : the season tion and druids of shadows and the clear disappeared at Vis century season. with ST Patrick Evangelism. The Christian celebration of “all saints day”, when Halloween takes place, was institutionalized at the IX century by the pope Gregoire IV. The origin of the word Halloween is coming from All Hallow Eve, the evening of all saints, the night before all saints day. “Holly” is an ancient version of the English word “Holy” and Heaven gave birth to Evening. This celebration marks the transition from a year to another, the opening to another world.

G T R E Z P O E S W A T O M E M

Halloween Word Grid

O X R V V R H G W W T R B M R A B G V E G V A M P I G T B W I O J

R E R A I

Find the words hidden in the grid, they can be up or down,

G from side to side and sometime even backwards. T L V A V R A R G E D

V W W G L V E Z R T R I

C K

T K P P G H O S T V E T W C V D E G R E Y G W I

T C H W G T E G

D G W T V V E R G R E T S N O M E U P U M V E R G O B L I P U M P K I

N E L

N H V H A U N T E D

HALLOWEEN VAMPIRE GHOST PUMPKIN TREAT WITCH TRICK GOBLIN MAGIC HAUNTED

www.giftsandvouchers.ie On-line shopping in Ireland www.giftsandvouchers.ie was launched in November 2008 by local Businesswoman Sian Maloney. Sian is originally from Bettystown,Co Meath and realised that there was a need for an online business that promoted local shops and businesses that may not have an online presence. She began with just over 20 businesses on www.giftsandvouchers.ie and this has now grown to over 60. www.giftsandvouchers.ie sell luxury Gift Vouchers and Gifts on their behalf and these can be sent to anywhere in Ireland. They also have a Wedding and Gift List facility allowing clients to select their gifts from any of their huge Partner Business database and compile one Gift List that their guests can choose from and have them delivered at a time and date that suits them. www.giftsandvouchers.ie have a huge selection of gifts covering every special occasion. They have everything from Newbridge Silver and John Rocha to Handmade Chocolate Wine Hampers. And for the more outdoor types you can select from golf at the prestigious Baltray Golf Course or Hot Air Balloon Rides anywhere in Ireland. They also have vouchers that you can purchase which can be spent in any of the stores. Perfect for those Staff schemes and tax breaks also! Sian is presently looking at expanding the delivery option to the UK market and also developing an online E-Voucher system which will enable shoppers to email their vouchers and spend them online. She is also launching her new Shopping Forum www.talkshop.ie Sian can be contacted for any gift sales@giftsandvouchers.ie or on Twitter www.twitter.com/giftsandvoucher Please support Local Businesses.

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