One womans i.move journey

When Louise wanted to start Pilates with us for the first time we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to follow her transformation- what would she enjoy, what would she struggle with, would she achieve the results she set out to achieve?  Take a peep into her personal journey below: I joined Mayfair Wellness on Monday the 8th of September after I search the internet for a while specifically for Pilates.  First impressions always last, referring to the warm and friendly reception as well as very helpful service I’ve received in joining Mayfair.  During my assessment with Jeanne I was actually shocked by the photo’s of my ‘before’ and ‘after’ and a bit sceptical if Pilates is really the answer?  However, going through the assessment I’ve become more aware of my body and then started looking forward to my first class!  Needless to say, after this one session I am much more positive and really looking forward to get rid of my back & neck problems.  Initially I’ve thought I would not keep up with  the rest of the class and was afraid that I will hurt myself.  However, Jeanne’s calm  voice & influence led me not only to ‘feel’ the motions, but also made me aware of  learning my body in a totally new way. I am really looking forward to tonight’s class  and the rest of the week!    4 days down the line and I’ve already discovered the difference in normal workout  classes at the gym vs pilates.  In gym you do not really focus or listen to your inner  body where in pilates you are aware of your body during the whole exercise w.r.t.  breathing, the intensity of each move and how far you can actually push your body.   Your chances of getting hurt in the gym is higher, in Pilates you’ll receive non-stop individual attention and your chances of getting hurt, is less. This week was quite an experience and lovely journey – in only a few days I’ve really learnt a lot of new things as well as being more in touch with my body.      The 2nd week of my Pilates classes was a frustration due to the fact that I could not  attend any of them!  I had to lie down flat on my back for two days as a nerve pinched  in my lower back, very bad for someone who kicked off with such enthusiasm   However, the wonderful Jeannie from the studio has supported me emotionally  throughout the week and I knew I simply must have faith – it WILL eventually get  better!  I’ve started this week working out very slowly and listened to my body as my instructor Jeannie has told me. The nice thing also was to work out with Karla, my osteopath  who presented the class.  They’ve treated me as if I was the most important  person in the studio (well this is how I’ve felt ) and it was such a pleasure to have  both in the class, directing me what to do and what not.  The words “listen to your  body” still echoes in my ears and I keep on repeating them in my mind all the time.   I’ve come to realise don’t just go with the flow, or be scared to fall behind the rest of  the class but ONLY to listen to my body – it went fantastic last night and I feel quite  positive for the next two days’ work outs! Pilates for the week of 6 October was a ball!  From being only a handful on  Monday to being fully booked on Wednesday made the classes so much more  enjoyable – Monday we’ve received a lot of personal attention and were taken  care of by Jeannie.  Wednesday it was more difficult due to the fullness of the  class, however for the first time I did not feel I am the only one with back problems.   There were others as well, sharing the same pain and discomfort as I do and we  could therefore relate to one another.  So nice to hear that they are also happy to be  there as they’ve found the right place for their problems!  So for Louise’s back  (that’s me), I could feel a bit of a relief in relation to the previous week and hope to  carry on like this to the next week! This week’s attendance in relation to last week went so much better as I’ve felt  more flexible and could have done much more with my body since I’ve started.   It’s only the ‘planks’ which for some reason I cannot even try doing!  The moment  I lift myself up, I can feel the pressure in my lower back.  However, I am  positive in stating that I will be able to eventually master this exercise, that’s for  sure!  The combination of doing the beginners class together with the intermediate  also helps a lot in the sense that the one teaches you a lot on how to  use and concentrate on the core muscles, whereas the other is more of an intense  workout.  After a class like this you can actually feel up to which point you have  pushed your body and whether you are comfortable with it.  If too much strain,  it will obviously be best to slow down and go back to the beginner’s class.   Thanks to i.move studio for understanding our bodies!

Intro to Tai Chi Workshop

I  N  T  R  O  D  U  C  T  O  R  Y T  A  I   C  H  I W o r k s h o p  @  i . m o v e  s t u d i o This introductory workshop will begin at the beginning...looking at the basic Tai Chi posture, alignment and way of moving. As the most prevalent of the internal arts, Tai Chi is something we can all benefit from. To gain an insight to the many benefits of this ancient art, one needs to step into the movement. To feel the benefits oneself. Each of us walk a unique path in life with unique bodies. Our experiences will differ. Our concerns may differ. The way to learn Tai Chi is to embody the art. Tai Chi has the ability to transform lives on many levels. Lesley will spend time with each participant. There will be time set aside for questions and for anyone interested, this is a more in-depth look at the principles of T’ai Chi Ch’uan. Regular students are welcome. WHEN :-  Saturday 8th November and Saturday 22nd November TIME :-    9am - 11am WHERE:- i.move studio, Mayfair Wellness, 3 Bright Street, Somerset West COST :- Free & a special offer of 25% off if signing up for 3 months of Tai Chi All welcome, please wear loose, comfortable clothing.  For enquiries and/or bookings please contact Vivain at front desk 021 8517037.

October Event News & Pics

Octobeer Event news and Pics

Tai Chi @ the beach 

Strength and Power for older adults

TRE & Hypnobirthing pics to follow

Fine&Country Awards Convention

After a full day at the Annual Fine & Country Convention and Awards evening at the Radisson BLU in Sandton, Fine and Country Helderberg has proudly brought home 5 awards: Well done team !! ·      Brand Ambassador Local & International ·       Referrals & Networking ·       Best Branded Office ·       Property Presentation ·       Marketing & Promotional Kelly Reifarth Sales Director - Fine & Country Helderberg Mayfair, 3 Bright Street, Somerset West, 7130 Tel: +27 (0)21 851 3104 | Mobile: +27 (0)82 733 6259 | E-Mail: kelly.r@fineandcountry.com view email disclaimer.

Mayfairs End of Year Function

Save the date - Thursday 27 November 18:30

The whole Mayfair team will be getting together for a very relaxed end of year function in the studio and courtyard. We are excited to have all of our families join us and would love for you to bring your loved ones along too so that we can meet them. There will be snacks and drinks so come and enjoy the fun.
Love the Mayfair Team

Tai Chi & China Trip

A BIG THANK YOU FROM LESLEY

I would like to thank everyone at i.move studio, Mayfair Wellness and all locally who assisted me in joining the Tai Chi tour to China in September.

Your support and love went with me. The journey was deeply profound on many levels and I can only hope that it will be a step in an ongoing association with China. And, that it will be shared in the classes I share and teach.

Watch our press for details of any upcoming events...and once again

a deep and heartfelt, 'Xiexie'...Lesley

GREAT WALL OF CHINA & TAI CHI MUSEUM

 

T A I   C H I Taijiquan or Tai Chi is an internal martial art of ancient Chinese origin.  It is known amongst martial arts as the 'supreme ultimate.' Today Tai Chi  is taught predominantly for it's numerous health benefits. This art differs from  the majority of movement forms as it works from the inside out. The focus is  on postural alignment, relaxation and internal cultivation. This cultivation teaches practitioners to function on a physical level with the body moving as an integrated  whole. Tai Chi is often likened to a 'moving meditation' and when observing a  group of students practicing together, this can be seen and felt. When mind  and body are relaxed, students move with seeming effortlessness and grace.  The movements are practiced slowly, with intention, focus and concentration.  Each movement flows continuously into the next. Through the alignment of the posture, the stress on the body is minimized.  The joints are strengthened and health professionals recommend Tai Chi as  a good weight bearing regime. Strain on the internal organs is lessened.  One doesn't sweat in Tai Chi, it's a low impact, supportive system. We learn  how to utilize our energy efficiently. Through the movements, the cardiovascular  system is strengthened. The breathing deepens and more oxygen is available.  Circulation is enhanced, as is cellular function. The mind and emotions become  calm, which in turn helps us to cope with the challenges of daily life. Regular practice enhances vitality and a sense of wellbeing. Balance and flexibility  improve. Blood pressure, heart rate, respiration and digestion settle. This, in turn is beneficial for weight gain or loss. Insomnia sufferers find their sleep improves.  Headaches go away. Depression and anxiety ease. With continued practice  memory improves. Tai Chi maintains health, working preventatively by improving  the function of the immune system. It assists in healing after injury or illness and  helps regulate hormonal fluctuation.Traditionally, it is taught, one becomes older,  wiser and stronger through the study and practice of Tai Chi.Philosophically,  the whole concept of Tai Chi is cyclical, round and natural. The cycles of nature.  The shape of the earth. Birth and death. Yin and Yang. Tai Chi is about the  subtle balance between opposites. Understanding ourselves. Qi (pronunciation chee)  is the body's intrinsic energy or life force, which permeates all. Tai Chi students  learn about this in themselves.Tai Chi is one of the fastest growing and most popular  arts worldwide. From the east it has spread to Europe and America. There are 6 styles, the 3 most popular being Chen, Yang and Wu. South Africa is privileged to have masters from several lineages resident and teaching here. If you are looking into learning Tai Chi, be sure that the teacher has proficient knowledge and certification. Most importantly, meet them, talk to them and feel comfortable with them. Advise them of any injuries or medical conditions. What one invests in learning, one gains and Tai Chi does take discipline, patience and persistence. Good health and a sense of wellbeing are true wealth. The meditative, internal aspect brings greater awareness and mental clarity. Tai Chi functions across many levels, from the physical, to the mental, emotional and ultimately spiritual. It all depends on individual focus. Why try Tai Chi? To truly understand Tai Chi and its benefits we need to feel what it feels like to the body. Our clients have benefited with hormonal imbalances, depression, older women in transitional years and many other concerns that we may face on a daily basis. So we would like to invite to have the opportunity to see how Tai chi can assist your processes in and on your life journey.

Gifting for health

Tired of receiving the same old boring Christmas presents
- why not give the gift of health this Christmas?

From clothing to Africology products, free massages and acupuncture as well as promotions on group and private classes there is something for everyone's taste and budget.

·         AFRICOLOGY & i.move- for every R500 spent on Africology products you receive 3 i.move classes worth R270

·         AMNA & i.move- for every R500 spent on Amna clothing you receive 3 i.move classes worth R270

·         JUMP START PROMOTIONS : for January 2015

- 25% off your January month of unlimited i.move classes (normal price R750, only pay R562.50) – purchase before November 30th

- Reform your body- 25% off 3 session private Pilates bundle (normal price R949, only pay R711,75) – purchase before November 30th

·         Free sports massage / acupuncture if you buy 3 Private Pilates Equipment sessions  for R949

·         Free beginners Pilates –Pay R350 for unlimited Beginner Pilates classes (normal price R695) & receive a free 30min private assessment session worth R350

Pain - Friend or Foe by Dr Sanien de Beer

Pain – Friend or Foe? By Dr Sanien de Beer Pain is not a foreign concept.  Most people experienced it at some  stage in their lives.  Pain can take on different characteristics and  patterns and can be due to a variety of reasons. It can be caused  by an acute illness, injury or a chronic condition. It can vary from  being a fleeting awareness of discomfort to a debilitating stabbing  sensation. Pain can be acute or chronic and caused by known or  unknown reasons. Some people have a very high tolerance to pain –  which can almost be more dangerous than the pain itself.   Pain seldom occurs in isolation – it often brings with it a host of other symptoms. It also has an emotional impact, which is worth exploring;  however it certainly is not always “in your head”! This leads to the question of “what is this pain about?”  If your pain  had a voice, what would it say or shout or scream or whisper… and will you take the time to listen, or just numb it with more and  stronger painkillers? The body uses pain to communicate.  Although not the most pleasant communication medium, it is one that certainly will get your attention. Pain causes an array of physiological and pathological responses in  the body.  This involves neuro transmitters, enzymes, receptors,  muscles and nerves, to name a few.  New types of allopathic pain  medication - is constantly being developed in an attempt to “arrest” pain. It is essential to find the cause of the pain and not just treat it as a  symptom. If the cause is addressed, this symptom is likely to improve.   If it is pain due to muscle strain it may be helpful to look at the alignment  of your body and identify movement patterns or postural deviations  which can cause the pain.  In such an instance a movement specialist or Osteopath may assist. If pain is due to a chronic or degenerative condition e.g. arthritis, it may  be helpful to consider lifestyle factors which have an influence on pain.  Dietary adaptations and including food with natural anti inflammatory properties in your diet, may make a significant difference. Adequate  fluid intake also plays an important role. A Nutritionist can provide  valuable and practical advice. Through the centuries herbs in many different forms have been used  for pain relief. The pain relieving properties of medicinal plants are well documented. This does however not imply that all plants are safe to  use as pain ‘muthi’ and the assistance of a Phytotherapist who  specializes in the clinical use of medicinal plants, is recommended. Sometimes pain can be due to an accumulation of trauma – both on a physiological and psychological level.  Repetitive injuries make one  wary of movement – yet immobility can often increase pain.  The influence of the mind-body connection should not be  under- estimated. This has been highlighted with techniques as  TRE – trauma releasing exercise - which is a gentle yet powerful  and safe way to release accumulated trauma which is stored in  the body.Acupuncture, massage and movement therapies are other alternatives to consider silencing the voice of pain. These modalities  not only address the symptom but provide an opportunity to look at  some of the potential underlying causes. At Mayfair Wellness many of these modalities are available under one  roof and the synergy of different approaches to pain management  prove more efficient than using a single approach. In finding helpful ways to understand the communication system of  your body, more effective pain management strategies can be used.  When looking at pain as being the “Master of Ceremonies” of many  activities in the body, and responding to it appropriately instead of just silencing it, it can indeed be your friend and not your foe.

Steven Trollope - Sports Massage

About sports massage:

The usual experience in conventional treatment is to aim to restore normal function when someone is injured, although this type of treatment can fall under the scope of work in sports massage, the main focus is to reach a level of performance beyond that which an athlete will ever achieve. The aim of treatment is therefore always to enhance performance at whatever level the sportsman has reached. The most major risk in the quest for enhanced performance is of course injury, so the primary treatment concern is injury prevention. With regular treatment athletes are more able to sustain high levels of performance without getting injured. Not everybody has to be an athlete to benefit from sports massage

Sessions can be tailored for injury prevention, from post injury to building to an event, or just to give the body a break from the everyday wear and tear of day to day life.

Meet Steven Trollope:

After first studying personal training through the ETA in cape town in 2001 I returned overseas to complete a course of sports and remedial massage through the London School of Sports Massage. Following the completion of my sports massage I went on to do courses of myofascial release, strapping & taping and joint manipulation & mobilization. Following the studies I have worked throughout the UK with both domestic and international athletes, sports teams as well as private clients. Upon return to SA in 2008 I set up a sports massage practice in Somerset West During which time clients included, amongst others, WP and Springbok bodybuilders and Miss Fitness SA. In 2012 I was invited to join two single speed cyclists on the ABSA Cape Epic as a sports massage therapist, a challenging but successful endeavour! Apart from the massage I have a keen interest in all sports and having broke the men’s freediving bi-fins SA record last year is currently training for a world record status freediving event in November.

Pauli Geldenhuis - Counseling Psychologist

PAULI GELDENHUIS

Counseling Psychologist

---

About

HPCSA Registration Number: PS0064203
Practice Number: 8646058
Counseling Psychologist
Hypnotherapist:
Ericksonian
Ego State
Trauma Specialist

• Eye Movement Integrarion [EMI]
• Somantic Experiencing [SE]

Eye Movement Integration [EMI] / Somantic Experiencing [SE]

Somatic Experiencing (SE) is a naturalistic approach to the understanding and healing of trauma. It was developed by Peter A. Levine over the past 40 years and taught throughout the world. I am in the very privileged position of being one of 45 therapists to be trained in SE for the first time in South Africa. This approach complements the other areas of specialty I have been trained in namely Hypnotherapy and Eye Movement Integration [EMI] as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy [CBT].
SE is a clinical methodology based upon an appreciation of why animals in the wild are not traumatized by routine threats to their lives while humans, on the other hand, are readily overwhelmed and traumatized. Fortunately, the very same instincts (and related survival based brain systems) that are involved in the formation of trauma symptoms can be enlisted in the transformation and healing of trauma. Therapeutically, this “instinct to heal” and self-regulate is engaged through the awareness of body sensations that contradict those of paralysis and helplessness, and which restore resilience, equilibrium and wholeness.
Because human responses to potential threat vary so greatly, it is difficult to identify or classify sources of trauma. Most people associate trauma with events like war, violence, extremes of physical, emotional or sexual abuse, crippling accidents, or natural disasters. However, many ''ordinary'' or seemingly benign events can also be traumatic. For example, so-called minor automobile “whiplash'' accidents frequently lead to bewildering and debilitating physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms. Common invasive medical procedures and surgeries (particularly those performed on frightened children who are restrained while being anesthetized), can be profoundly traumatizing. Somatic Experiencing utilizes basic tools (and “building blocks”) but also works differentially with various sources of trauma.
 These diverse categories include:

• Medical: Hospitalizations, surgeries, invasive medical procedures, anaesthesia, burns, poisoning, fetal distress and traumatic birth.
• Accidents: Falls, high impact accidents (including auto accidents), head injury, electrocution.
• Suffocation: Drowning, strangulation.
• Attack: Rape, war, bombings, physical abuse, mugging, molestation, physical injury, stabbing, gunshot wounds, animal attacks.
• Natural and man-made disasters: Earthquakes, fires, tornadoes, floods, terrorism, dislocation from the natural world and community.
• Horror: Seeing an accident (especially with blood, gore and dismemberment), watching someone else being abused, raped, killed or tortured, killing or hurting someone.
• Developmental: Neglect, abandonment, loss and ongoing abuse.
• Torture, repeated rape and systematic abuse

SE is a non-invasive and hugely effective intervention in the treatment of trauma and its impact is profound, be it a few days after the traumatic experience or many years later. Please do not hesitate to contact PAULI GELDENHUIS at the Mayfair Centre for further information.

Karla Van Zyl - Registered Osteopath

KARLA VAN ZYL

Registered Osteopath

What is an Osteopath?

Osteopaths are skilled at discovering the underlying causes of pain, using their hands both to gain information and to treat injuries. Treatment techniques may include soft tissue stretching, muscle energy techniques, rhythmic passive joint movements, joint articulation and manipulation to improve the range of movements of a joint. 

Well known for the effective treatment of back and neck pain, any osteopath will also treat a wide variety of other conditions that may be related to the workplace, including tension headaches and migraine, and they can also give remedial advice and preventative exercises.

A wide range of recent studies have shown that osteopathic treatment can be instrumental in rapidly alleviating the painful symptoms associated with back and joint pain whatever the cause or origin. Osteopathic treatment is an effective means of returning people to full activity at an early opportunity following injury from any cause.

 

Osteopaths treat the following:

·         Headaches

·         Golf Posture Dynamics, Swing Injuries
·         Spinal Alignment Problems
·         Scoliosis
·         Low Back Pain / Lumbago
·         Sciatica / Trapped Nerves
·         Sacro-lliac pain
·         Shoulder Pain / Rotator Cuff Injury
·         Frozen Shoulder Syndrome
·         Tennis Elbow
·         Wrist Pain
·         Sports Injuries
·         Pain during Pregnancy
·         Infantile Colic
·         Constipation
·         Poor Sleep Patterns
·         Infantile Feeding Problems
 

About Karla van Zyl

Karla van Zyl qualified from the Surrey Institute of Osteopathic Medicine, UK, in 2007. After qualifying she did a short spell in a general practice in the UK, after which she returned to South Africa in 2008. She focused on the gynecological field by working with pregnant women and babies at a women’s wellness center in Gauteng.  

As she is a keen golfer, she also specialized in golf posture, swing dynamics and injuries alongside a golf professional at Wits University, Johannesburg.Early 2010 she moved to Cape Town and started practicing in Somerset West. Here she saw many patients in her other field of specialization, which is the treatment of migraines and headaches.

Karla became a member of the Professional Board for Chiropractic and Osteopathy (PCOB) in 2012.

Dr Sanien de Beer - Practitioner of Phytotherapy

DR SANIEN DE BEER

Practitioner of Phytotherapy
AHPCSA Registration number A01304

About

Dr Sanien de Beer has been involved with Holistic Health for the past 15 years. She is a qualified Phytotherapist, has a Diploma in Nutritional Medicine and is one of the few registered practitioners of Bach Flower Remedies in South Africa. In addition to these areas of expertise, she also offers treatments in Clinical Aromatherapy, Therapeutic Reflexology, Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Vodder method) and Thermo Auricular Therapy.

The empowerment of patients through the sharing of knowledge about health and lifestyle choices is paramount to Dr de Beer, who feels that patients should be able to take responsibility for their own health.  She is passionate about the versatility of medicinal plants, which enables her to approach each patient individually and with sensitivity to their particular needs.  Through scientific research, she is able to support her knowledge and interest in traditional medicinal plant uses, thus offering her patients an integrative approach to wellness.  

What is Phytotherapy

Phytotherapy is derived from the word ‘phyto’, which means ‘plant’ in Greek.  By combining scientific research and the highest professional standards with the practice of herbal medicine and effective and safe use of medicinal plants; Phytotherapy translates into modern herbal medicine at its best.  

In Phytotherapy, plant medicines are selected mainly to stimulate or strengthen the normal functions of the body, thereby supporting the body in its healing process. Since plant medicines are often used in conjunction with modern, orthodox drugs, Phytotherapists are aware of potential drug herb interactions and will treat their patients accordingly. Depending on the patients’ specific needs, herbal medicines are offered in the form of tinctures, tablets, herbal teas, creams or oils.

Patients who will benefit from these treatments

·       Children
·       Adults
·       Those suffering from chronic conditions
·       Pre and post operative patients
·       Those suffering from lifestyle associated diseases

Other Treatment Modalities

·       Nutritional Medicine: 

Food, diet and nutritional supplements are viewed from the perspective of their therapeutic potential, which enables Dr de Beer to provide dietary advice and prescribe nutritional supplements to assist in the treatment of a broad range of health conditions.   Nutritional Medicine is used to support organ function, treat disease and restore mental and emotional balance. It is also successfully used for weight gain and weight loss.

·       Therapeutic Reflexology:

Therapeutic Reflexology helps to relieve stress and tension, allowing the body to function more effectively. It is a non-invasive therapy that involves specialized techniques performed on the feet and/or hands.  By stimulating these reflex areas, the body is supported to achieve wellbeing and balance.

·       Clinical Aromatherapy:

Clinical Aromatherapy is a multifaceted, non-invasive system of treatment that uses aromatic plant extracts to facilitate the restoration of health. The sense of smell has a direct connection to the brain, which explains the profound effect of essential oils on both a mental and emotional level. Used appropriately, Clinical Aromatherapy is a safe, effective, natural treatment modality – so much more than just a ‘fragrant rub’.

·       Bach Flower Remedies:

This is a system of 38 plant and flower remedies, which were discovered in the 1930’s by Dr Edward Bach. The purpose of these remedies is to support a person’s fight against illness by addressing emotional factors such as depression, anxiety and trauma, which are thought to impede physical healing. It can also be used preventatively during times of anxiety and stress.

·       Thermal Auricular Therapy:

This treatment entails the professional use of Hopi ear Candles and is an ancient, natural therapy handed down by many civilisations. It is a pleasant and non-invasive treatment of the ears, used to treat a variety of ear, nose and throat conditions and associated problems. It is safe for children and has a deeply relaxing effect on both body and mind.

·       Manual Lymphatic Drainage (Vodder method – MLDV):

This is the most widely know method used to treat a variety of conditions related to lymphoedema and swelling.  It is an advanced massage technique, which eases swelling and inflammation caused by injury, trauma or surgery.  As a pre and post operative treatment it is unparalleled in its ability to ease most of the tissue swelling, speeding the healing rate of damaged structures while having a profound effect on the immune system.