Taster massages at Catford Community Wellness Day

I absolutely loved taking part in my first ever Catford Community Wellness Day last Saturday! I joined the team from the Honor Oak Wellness Rooms and offered ten minute head and shoulder massages, as a little taster of what to expect if you book in with me.

Simon, Chiropractor and Director of the Honor Oak Wellness Rooms, led a spinal movement workshop which was brilliant. My colleague Korina, Somatics & Movement Coach, gave a talk about a Toolkit for a Nervous System Reset and Seema, Strength & Conditioning Coach, talked about strength training for women. These prompted some very inspiring discussions.

The event was held at at Corbett Community Library and placed a strong emphasis on feeling good. We experienced a meditative sound bath and learnt a bit more about aromatherapy and reiki - just a few examples of the transformative therapies on offer locally. I particularly enjoyed Undulate Dance's amazing belly dancers who delivered a beginners workshop, which provided an interesting soundtrack to my head and shoulder massages!

I met some really friendly south east Londoners and chatted to them about their passion for all things wellness and how massage helps them alleviate life's many stressors.

It struck me that for so many people, massage should be a regular feature in their routine, but it's so hard to find the time and money to do so. I think it's fantastic to be able to offer short massages for only £10, which seemed to brighten up some people's afternoon and give them a little reset.

It's not just about addressing aching muscles for me - it's about human connection, soothing touch, and giving people tools for looking after their bodies. After massaging a lady who was dealing with cancer treatment, limited mobility and a lifelong chronic illness, I was reminded of the potential benefits if we adopt a more holistic and preventative approach to healthcare.

With the complexities of illness, burnout and injury, complementary therapies can be such powerful tools for us throughout the year - physically, mentally and spiritually. But we often turn to massage and other modalities as a cure when we're at our limits with pain and stress.

This attitude shift will take some time, but I'm pleased to see how much value communities like Catford place on complementary therapies and discovering new ways to ultimately feel good.

Thanks to Catford Wellness Collective for a wonderful event. I can't wait to take part in another Community Wellness Day in the future!