When I first created my "holistic Advent Calendar in 2020, I really wanted the experience to be like a traditional paper advent calendar (minus the glitter that would cover everything). Sadly, I did not have the tech know how.

Here we are, 5 years later, and I have finally worked out how to create a version of the calendar that I am happier with.

It is still not quite how I would like it, but it is a step closer.

Please do download the pdf below, and you can "click" on the window each day, and it will take you to the blog post for that day (my ideal is to be able to click on the image on this screen - but that will be a future me issue!).

The pdf is laid out in the same way as the image attached to this blog post. Each day gives you a story, or fun, wholesome activity that leads you gently through the festive season.

Have a wonderful advent.
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A few years ago, I created my holistic advent, 24 days of posts to help you through the Christmas Season (I actually created this in 2020 to support those feeling alone during lockdowns). The posts are all still here on my blog, I will create a summary blog post for you use use next week, ready for the coming festive season.

But may be you are bored with the advent, you have seen it for a few years, or maybe you want to make something festive and fun unique to you and yours.... this post has you covered.

This year, why not make a reverse advent. Instead of taking something out of the box each day, why not pop something in the jar (or box, or lunch box, or tine, or whatever you have to hand).

I have found a cute red and gold tin I found in a cupboard. I have had it for years, and it will be fun to put it to use. Then, each day, pop in a slip of folded paper with a note of something that you are grateful for. It could be something from the year, a person who brings you joy, a memory from your childhood. Absolutely anything, you are making the rules here. As an alternative you could create a could do list for the year ahead. If you want to be adventurous, have different coloured paper for different activities, perhaps blue paper(or blue felt pen writing) for cold day activities, and red pen or paper for hot/ sunny day activities (again, you are making the rules).

If you feel really adventurous, you could have two tins / jars / containers. One for activities, one for gratitude / memories. Then each week in 2026, you can pull a piece of paper from one of the tins, and give yourself a smile or fun activity.

It is the advent that will give back to you all year round.

I would love to hear your thoughts, please do pop your comments below.
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Here are 5 natural tips to help you feel calm, that are simple, grounding, and easy to fit into your day:
 
Breathe Deep and Slow
Practice slow, deep breathing — inhale through your nose for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale through your mouth for 6. This activates your parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and calming your body naturally.
 
Herbal Support
Sip calming teas such as chamomile, lemon balm, or lavender. These herbs have gentle sedative properties that ease tension and promote relaxation.
 
Grounding in Nature
Spend a few minutes outside, try walking barefoot on grass, breathe in fresh air, or simply observe your surroundings. Nature naturally regulates stress hormones and restores balance.
 
Gentle Movement
Try stretching, yoga, or mindful walking to release physical tension and quiet the mind. Movement boosts endorphins and helps you reconnect with your body.
 
Create a Calm Space
Light a candle, diffuse essential oils like lavender or bergamot, and play soft music. A peaceful environment signals safety and serenity to your nervous system.
 
Lets expand a little on the herbs and essential oils
 
Here are five herbs and essential oils known for their calming and stress-relieving properties, perfect for supporting relaxation, better sleep, and emotional balance:
 
1. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
 
Form: Essential oil or herbal tea
 
Benefits: Reduces anxiety and promotes calmness, Improves sleep quality, Eases headaches and muscle tension.
 
How to use: Add a few drops of lavender oil to a diffuser or bath, or sip lavender-infused tea before bed.
 
2. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
 
Form: Herbal tea or tincture
 
Benefits: Soothes nervous tension and irritability, Supports better sleep, Gentle mood enhancer.
 
How to use: Enjoy as a tea or take a few drops of tincture during stressful moments.
 
3. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
 
Form: Tea or essential oil
 
Benefits: Calms the nervous system, Eases digestive discomfort linked to stress, Promotes restful sleep.
 
How to use: Drink chamomile tea in the evening or inhale the oil’s aroma with a diffuser.
  
4. Frankincense (Boswellia )
 
Form: Essential oil
 
Benefits: Deepens breathing and promotes meditation, Grounds emotions and relieves anxiety,
 
Supports mindfulness practices.
 
 How to use: Diffuse during meditation or apply diluted oil to pulse points.
 
 5. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)
 
Form: Herbal tea, tincture, or capsule
 
Benefits: Reduces racing thoughts and anxiety, Helps with insomnia and restlessness, Balances mood gently without drowsiness.
 
 How to use: Take as a tea before bedtime or use a tincture for daytime calm.

Hyperkeratosis is a thickening of the outer layer of the skin (stratum corneum) due to an overproduction of keratin. This can make the skin appear rough, dry, scaly, or calloused. It can occur in response to chronic pressure, friction, inflammation, or underlying skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, lichen planus, actinic keratosis, or inherited disorders like keratosis pilaris.
It isn’t a disease itself, but a reaction pattern of the skin, and the underlying cause needs to be addressed.

When working with my clients with homeopathy,  I want to know when this started to be a problem, what was going on in life at the time, or in the year or two leading up to it appearing, and what are the symptoms like for the,

Here are 5 of the Top Homeopathic Remedies Often Used for Hyperkeratosis(The choice depends on symptoms and constitution and causal factors, remedies in homeopathy are highly individualised.)

1. Graphites
   • For thick, rough, cracked, or hardened skin.
   • Skin may ooze sticky or honey-like discharge.
   • Often suited to people with dry skin tendencies and eczema.
2. Thuja Occidentalis
   • For warty or thickened skin growths.
   • Useful when hyperkeratosis presents as hard, horny patches or warty excrescences.
   • Often linked with suppressed skin eruptions.
3. Antimonium Crudum
   • For thickened, hard skin, especially on soles and palms.
   • Good for calluses, corns, and painful cracks (may be this type of skin issue on other places on the body)
   • The skin may appear horny or covered with crusts.
4. Calcarea Carbonica
   • For rough, scaly, and unhealthy skin.
   • Often indicated in people who are chilly, overweight, or easily fatigued.
   • Suited when skin lesions are slow to heal.
5. Silicea
   • For deep cracks, fissures, and thickened skin.
   • Works well in chronic, stubborn cases where the skin hardens and becomes brittle.
   • Often chosen for people with delicate constitutions and slow-healing skin issues.
     
     
     

If your hyperkeratosis symptoms do not fit any of the above, do not worry, I have a huge repertory of remedies to work with, and your case may be much more individualised than the examples outlined above.

We are all different, and homeopathy really focuses on the uniqueness of each and every person.

​I do recommend getting a diagnosis from your medical practitioner alongside working with natural remedies with this condition.

Please do get in touch for a free 15 minute pre consultation call if you would like to know more (there is no obligation). 

Whether you live in a town, city or rurally, you will be surrounded by healing plants. I feel it is really important to have a good relationship with nature, and knowing the plants that are around us, is a true essence of that connection.

Over the years of studying natural law, pants, remedies, nutrients and more, I have discovered that learning one thing, one plant, one remedy, or one system at a time, makes the thing we are learning more anchored in our memory. Learning one thing helps it to become a part of our essence. Learning lots of one things soon adds up over time!

With this in mind, I am sharing one plant at the end of each Forest Therapy and Nature Immersion session, around a log circle, or together in my sheltered outdoor kitchen, however the needs of the herbal preparation dictates.

When we are still, calm and centred, we will absorb the information much more readily. Having just completed 2 hours of forest therapy, we are already at one with nature, and so discovering how we can use a plant in our life becomes quite simple and relaxing.

At my September Forest Therapy session we explored the healing benefits of Hawthorn, discovering the healing properties through the seasons, and focusing, of course, of the healing power of the leaves and berries in the Autumn.

As a result of this session, I was asked if I would be running more workshops on herbs and foraging. Of course the answer was a yes, because I love sharing my safe, nurturing, outdoor space with wonderful people who want to learn more about nature and how it can help them.

Feedback comment includes  "Wonderful experience, completely connected to nature..." "total peace and tranquillity" and "time slows, heartrate slows, and the speed of thoughts calm"

Whilst I will be announcing my outdoor workshop plans early next year, you can still grab a place on my Final Forest Therapy session of 2025. Thursday 23rd October we will be enjoying some more *different) nature invitations, followed by another great forgeable medicinal plant.

I do hope you can join me. You can book here.

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in keeping the body and mind healthy. Unlike many vitamins, B12 is not produced by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Whilst this vitamin is only required in relatively small amounts, its impact on overall health is enormous.

Why Does Vitamin B12 Matter?
Vitamin B12 supports some of the body’s most critical functions, from energy production to brain health. A deficiency can cause fatigue, memory problems, mood imbalances, and even long-term nerve damage if left untreated. Ensuring adequate levels of B12 is especially important for people who follow plant-based diets, older adults, those with digestive conditions that affect nutrient absorption and, in my opinion, anyone who may have a toxic load (think smoking, vaping, alcohol).

Key Benefits of Vitamin B12
1. Boosts Energy and Reduces FatigueB12 is crucial for converting food into energy. It helps the body produce red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Without enough B12, red blood cell production drops, often leading to fatigue, weakness, or anaemia.

2. Supports Brain and Nervous System Health This vitamin protects nerve cells and is vital for producing neurotransmitters that influence mood and cognitive function. Studies suggest that B12 may help reduce the risk of memory loss, support concentration, and protect against age-related cognitive decline.

3. Enhances Mood and Mental Wellbeing B12 contributes to the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” brain chemical. Low levels have been linked to mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Adequate B12 can help support emotional balance and resilience.

4. Promotes Healthy Skin, Hair, and Nails By aiding in cell reproduction, B12 helps maintain the health of rapidly dividing cells, including those that form your skin, hair, and nails. Deficiency may result in skin irritation, brittle nails, or hair thinning.
5. Supports Heart Health Vitamin B12 helps regulate homocysteine levels, an amino acid that, when elevated, can increase the risk of heart disease. Keeping homocysteine in check supports cardiovascular health.

6. Vital for Pregnant Women and Foetal Development During pregnancy, B12 is essential for foetal brain and nervous system development. Deficiency in expectant mothers can increase the risk of birth defects and complications. Check your pregnancy supplements have B12 as part of the formula.

Natural Sources of Vitamin B12
​Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal-based foods such as:
Meat (beef, lamb, poultry)
Fish and shellfish (salmon, tuna, clams)
Eggs
Dairy products (milk, yoghurt, cheese)
If you are following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, fortified foods such as plant-based milks, breakfast cereals and nutritional yeast are valuable options. Supplements are also widely available in tablets, sprays or injections if additional support is needed.
Who May Need Extra B12?Vegans and vegetarians (as dietary sources are limited)
Older adults (as reduced stomach acid can impair absorption)
People with digestive conditions (such as Crohn’s or coeliac disease)
Individuals on certain prescribed medicines.
Individuals with a poor diet or negative lifestyle factors (for example, smoking / drinking / vaping / eating junk food / takes outs etc)
 
B12 is essential for many functions in our body. If you are unsure if you need supplementation, please do get in touch for an appointment. If you would like to purchase B12, Biocare has excellent quality supplements. Please find out more about their range, and also how to receive a discount when you order here. 

Please note, This article does not replace medical advice

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We have all experience a headache of some form during our life. In this blog post, we explore what a headache is, what the types and common causes of a headache are, and also a few common remedies. Please note, I have a lot of remedies to work with, I am just listing a few common options here for you.
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What is a headache?
A headache is a pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. It is a very common condition and can vary in intensity, location, and duration. Headaches are often categorized based on their cause or characteristics.
 
Common Types of Headaches
Tension Headache
This is the most common type. It can feel like a tight band around the head. There is mild to moderate pain, usually on both sides, often related to stress, poor posture, or fatigue
 
Migraine
There is generally Intense, throbbing pain, often on one side. It can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light/sound and may last for hours or even days. Some people experience a visual or sensory "aura" before it starts
 
Cluster Headache
There is severe, burning pain usually around one eye. It occurs in groups or "clusters" over weeks or months and often happens at the same time each day
 
Sinus Headache
This type of headache is caused by sinus inflammation or infection. There is pressure and pain in the forehead, cheeks, or around the eyes and often comes with nasal congestion.
 
Secondary Headache
This type of headache is a symptom of another condition (e.g. dehydration, head injury, high blood pressure, infection, blood sugar imbalances). To work on this type of headache, we also need to work on the underlying cause.
 
Causes of Headaches:
As you can see from the above, there are quite a few causes of headaches. These include
Stress or anxiety
Muscle tension
Poor posture
Dehydration
Skipping meals
Eye strain
Hormonal changes
Environmental factors (e.g. noise, smells, lighting)
Illnesses (e.g. flu, sinus infection)
 
Most headaches are not serious and can be treated with rest, hydration, sensible eating, or massage. However, a sudden, severe headache or one that comes with confusion, vision problems, or weakness may need immediate professional attention.
 
 
Homeopathy
When working with a homeopath, it is really helpful to think about all that is going on in life, the pattern you experience with the headache (eg, times of day, frequency, triggers) and also the sensations of the pain along with locations. This information is really helpful to work out the remedy plan for you.
 
Here are 5 commonly used homeopathic remedies for headaches, each suited to different symptom patterns and causes. Please note, there are many more headache remedies. Please do get in touch for an appointment if you need help with your headaches.
 
1. Belladonna
Best for: Sudden, intense headaches with throbbing or pounding pain.
Symptoms: Red face, dilated pupils, sensitivity to light/noise, often right-sided pain.
Triggers: Sun exposure, heat, motion, hormones.
 
2. Nux Vomica
Best for: Headaches caused by stress, hangovers, overwork, or digestive upset.
Symptoms: Irritability, nausea, light/sound sensitivity, often behind the eyes or at the back of the head.
Triggers: Alcohol, coffee, lack of sleep, overeating.
 
3. Bryonia Alba
Best for: Headaches worsened by movement and improved by pressure or rest.
Symptoms: Dry mouth, irritability, desire to lie still in a dark room.
Triggers: Heat, dehydration, physical exertion.
 
4. Gelsemium
Best for: Dull, heavy headaches with fatigue or flu-like symptoms.
Symptoms: Droopy eyelids, weakness, chills, poor coordination.
Triggers: Anticipation, emotional stress, illness.
 
5. Iris Versicolor
Best for: Migraines with visual disturbances (aura) and digestive issues.
Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, burning sensations in the stomach, blurred vision.
Triggers: Sweets, fasting, weekend relaxation after stress.
 
Please note:
Homeopathy is highly individualised; remedies work best when matched closely to the full symptom picture. When working with a client with recurrent headaches, it is important to also work on other underlying factors, such as hydration, diet, blood sugar balance, stress, sleep etc, as they can all be contributing factors.
 
Potency and repetition.
30C is commonly used at home. Take 1-2 pillules every 2–4 hours as needed, and stop once symptoms improve.
 
Consult a qualified practitioner if headaches are chronic, severe, or worsen.
This does not replace medical advice, also seek medical attention if you are unsure.