Last month I was presented by Bernie Martin, Chairperson of McTimoney Chiropractic Association with my 25 year service award to McTimoney Chiropractic. It was an absolute pleasure and honour to receive it especially as in 1989 when I graduated I never imagined getting through 25 years. And what a journey it’s been taking me all over the world.

I started as a young 21 year old full of hope and optimism wanting to solve the worlds “pain” through McTimoney – call me naïve too! However I have always wanted to make a difference to peoples’ lives no matter how small a difference that may be deemed. My mission was simple and still remains the same and that is that I will do my upmost best to help all those coming to me. Naturally I’ve not been able to help every single client; however, I have always had the intention of doing my best for them. This “intention” has led me to search for other ways of improving my life and that of my clients.

In my search I was interested in various other fields from Massage techniques including Aromatherapy and Indian Head Massage, an introduction to Bowen Technique and Zero Balancing, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Bach Flower Remedies, some I graduated in and some I did the introduction/foundation courses in. I undertook various personal development courses which entailed walking on hot coals and broken glass to colour psychology, meditation techniques and the Ho’oponopono Process.

I have read countless Mind Body Spirit books – “The Way of The Peaceful Warrior” and “The Journey of Socrates” by Dan Millman, “Entering The Circle” by Olga Khariditi and “A Fall to Grace” by Sandra Ingerman being personal favourites.

One of my greatest discoveries on my search was that of exercise at the age of 36 – I’m talking about “formal structured exercise” in a gym. Prior to this I was into walking, swimming and yoga only. I was concerned about how I would continue with McTimoney sessions over a long period of time. I discovered my first personal trainer who was a key factor in changing my health and fitness. I still work out with trainers doing weight training, cardio, yoga stretches and Pilates strengthening. This undoubtedly has led me to understanding my clients’ injuries and physiques better. Also I truly believe that “working out” combined with the other techniques I practice will sustain me for a long McTimoney Chiropractic career and a life of fulfilment.

“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive, and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour and some style”

Maya Angelou

It’s really hard to believe that a couple of months ago when I left Nepal and House with Heart ( HwH ) the Children’s Home that I support and volunteer in that an earthquake of 7.8 magnitude would hit the country and kill over 7000 people to date. This death toll is expected to rise.

It’s hard to believe that not that long ago I was doing McTimoney Chiropractic sessions on the kids at HwH, teaching them about posture, how to walk and how to stretch as well as run around with them, celebrate Holi, and celebrate my birthday.

It’s hard to believe that some of UNESCO’s world heritage sights in Kathmandu from the 15th to 18th centuries that I have visited have come crumbling down.

It’s hard to believe that the Nepalese government ( or maybe not that hard ) at a time like this is taxing and delaying international aid reaching those that need it the most and are keeping it for themselves, their villages and their families.

It’s even harder to believe that the Hyatt Regency has been accused of turning away local Nepali people seeking refuge in their large luxurious grounds – shame on you Hyatt for you have lost a customer for life and undoubtedly will lose more.

However despite all of this the human spirit of giving, sharing, caring, being compassionate and praying for all of those that have suffered in this prevails and shines a bright light in the darkness that has engulfed Nepal. When the earthquake hit HwH was affected like a lot of places that were not left untouched. In true style and demonstrating generosity of spirit they opened their gates and gardens to their adjoining neighbours whose buildings had either entirely collapsed or were in the danger of being collapsed. The Hyatt could really learn something here! The home that had become my home in March had substantial structural damage with cracks, the solar panels were damaged and their water tank had shards of glass and was unusable so they were relying on rainwater until it could be replaced. The children and staff could not stay in the home as too unsafe, so they amongst their neighbours have been living in 2 tents pitched in the garden. We’re talking about 75 people crammed in 2 tents sharing 2 toilets that were thankfully built in the garden a few years ago. Thankfully they were better prepared than most and had stocked up on some emergency food supplies which is what they have been nourishing on under the rains of the monsoon season which has come early creating other problems.

Tragedy gives an opportunity for human kindness to shine. I have had countless messages of support from family, friends, colleagues and clients asking what they could do. In response to this I have asked for donations and have pledged myself as I truly believe in leading by example. I am grateful for the fantastic reply to this call of help and in particular to my clients who support my passion for taking McTimoney out to the world, especially to those who who are less fortunate than ourselves and who have already experienced so many challenges than most of us will ever see in our lives. I hope to return to HwH next year when I shall be using McTimoney again amongst the residents and staff whom I’m honoured to count as my family.

As Dailai Lama says:
“Serving and helping others out of compassion is non-violence in action.”

To donate www.housewithheart.org/donate.html